Cable entry for outdoor LED module

The invention provides a multi-part cable module (10) for association with a receiver rail element (350) of a support (30), the multi-part cable module (10) comprising a primary part (100) and a secondary part (200), wherein the primary part (100) is configured to engagingly receive the secondary part (200), wherein the primary part (100) comprises a) a cavity (110) to receive at least part of the secondary part (200), and b) a primary part opening (120) to provide access to at least part of a functional part (210) of the secondary part (200) when the secondary part (200) is engagingly received by the primary part (100), and wherein the primary part (100) further comprises c) a primary part rail element (150) configured for a male-female association with the receiver rail element (350) of the support (30); the secondary part (200) comprises (a) an inlet (220) for receiving a cable (410), and (b) said functional part (210), wherein the functional part comprises an outlet (230) for said cable (410).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO PRIOR APPLICATIONS

This application is the U.S. National Phase application under 35 U.S.C. § 371 of International Application No. PCT/EP2016/071871, filed on Sep. 15, 2016 which claims the benefit of European Patent Application No. 15187703.2 filed on Sep. 30, 2015. These applications are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a multi-part cable module, a kit of parts comprising such multi part cable module, as well as to a method for providing a lighting device including such multi-part cable module. The invention further relates to such lighting device per se.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Lighting modules with passages for power supply cables are known in the art. EP2497998, for instance, describes a light emitting diode (LED) module which includes a substrate on which an LED is mounted; a heat radiation unit configured to include an insertion hole for passage of a power supply cable that supplies power to the substrate; a lens plate configured to include a lens corresponding to the LED and to cover the substrate; a rubber seal configured to be disposed between the heat radiation unit and the lens plate; and a waterproof structure configured to be inserted in the insertion hole and to include a through hole to receive the power supply cable, wherein the substrate is received in an inner space constructed as the lens plate, the rubber seal, and the heat radiation unit are connected, and the inner space has a waterproof structure.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A good closure of lighting devices is important to prevent getting e.g. water and/or dust into the lighting device, which may reduce lifetime and/or performance during the (remaining) lifetime. In the art, solutions are proposed that may suffer from one or more of not being water tight, not being able to withstand strain on a cable (especially in a direction parallel to the a cable axis), not easily integrable in existing lighting devices (herein also indicated as “luminaires”), and not being easily integrable in existing lighting device construction or application processes.

Hence, it is an aspect of the invention to provide an alternative solution for cable entry in (lighting) devices, which preferably further at least partly obviates one or more of above-described drawbacks.

In a first aspect, the invention provides a multi-part cable module (herein also indicated as “module” or “two-part module”) for association with a receiver rail element of a support, the multi-part cable module comprising a primary part and a secondary part, wherein

the primary part is configured to engagingly receive the secondary part, wherein the primary part comprises (a) a cavity to receive at least part of the secondary part, and (b) a primary part opening to provide access to at least part of a functional part of the secondary part (from a first primary part side of the primary part) when the secondary part is (configured) engagingly received by the primary part, and wherein the primary part further comprises (c) a primary part rail element configured for a male-female association with the receiver rail element of the support;

the secondary part comprises (a) an inlet (“cable inlet”) for receiving a cable, and (b) said functional part, wherein the functional part comprises an outlet (“cable outlet”) for said cable,

wherein the functional part further comprises a gasket perimetrically surrounding said outlet, and wherein the secondary part and gasket are an injection molding product.

With such multi-part cable module it is possible to provide both a good strain relief and protection from (rain) water external from the device. Especially, the multi-part cable module allows an IP55 or higher, such as IP65 or higher, especially IP66 protection or higher. IP (or “Ingress Protection”) ratings are defined in international standard EN 60529 (British BS EN 60529:1992, European IEC 60509:1989). They are used to define levels of sealing effectiveness of electrical enclosures against intrusion from foreign bodies (tools, dirt etc.) and moisture. IP55 indicates that the device is protected from limited dust ingress and protected from low pressure water jets from any direction. IP65 indicates that the device is protected from total dust ingress and protected from low pressure water jets from any direction. IP66 indicates that the device is totally dust tight and that the device is protected against string water jets and waves (protected from high pressure water jets from any direction). With the present invention, the part of the device where a cable enters the device can be closed to such an extent, that IP66 or higher may be obtained. Here, the high ingress protection of the device is especially related to the cable entry solution herein provided. Hence, the invention provides a cable entry with high ingress protection and strain relief, especially for outdoor lighting devices (see also below).

The multi-part cable module is especially useful in combination with a specific support, especially a specific support for application in a lighting device (“lighting module”). The multi-part cable module is herein also explained in relation to such support, as the multi-part cable module is configured to be able to be associated with the support in a male-female association, wherein especially the multi-part cable module cannot move relative to the support in a direction parallel to the support and/or a direction perpendicular to the support, at least not without a delocking action.

Further, the multi-part cable module is especially useful in combination with a cable, especially an electric cable. The multi-part cable module is also explained in relation to the cable, as the multi-part cable module is configured to have at least part of the cable enclosed by the multi-part cable module, especially attached to the multi-part cable module, wherein especially the cable within the multi-part cable module cannot move relative to the multi-part cable module in a direction parallel to a cable axis, and may even not be able to rotate within the multi-part cable module (especially assuming a cable having a substantially circular cross-section), at least not without a delocking action (of delocking the cable from the multi-part cable module).

However, the cable is not necessarily part of the multi-part cable module and the support is (also) not part of the multi-part cable module.

The term “multi-part cable module” includes the term “multi-part”. The multi-part cable module especially at least two elements, of which one element, the “primary part” is especially configured to be slided in or along a receiver rail element of the support and of which the other element, the “secondary part”, is especially configured to be received by the primary part, wherein the action of introducing the secondary part into the primary part may be indicated with a vector having at least a component perpendicular to a vector describing the sliding action of the primary part on or into the receiver rail element of support. The sliding direction is especially parallel to the rail elements. In embodiments, the multi-part cable module is a two-part cable module (a two-part module for enclosing at least part of the cable).

Further, the term “multi-part cable module” refers to a module suitable for receiving a cable, especially an electrical cable. In embodiments, the cable, or at least part thereof, may be integrated in the multi-part cable module (see also below). However, as indicated above the cable is not necessarily part of the multi-part cable module. The cable especially comprises an electrical cable (including insulation). The term “cable” may in embodiments also refer to a plurality of cables. Optionally, the term cable may refer to a conduit, or a glass fiber cable, or another type of data cable. The term cable especially refers to a flexible cable as the cable inlet and cable outlet of the secondary part are especially comprised by different sides of the secondary part.

The primary part is especially configured to engagingly receive the secondary part. Hence, at least part of the secondary part, or especially substantially the entire secondary part, may be incorporated into the primary part. This may e.g. be done by a translational or rotational movement (see also below). To this end, the primary part especially comprises (a) a cavity to receive at least part of the secondary part. Hence, the cavity is especially configured to host at least part, or substantially the entire secondary part. Optionally, the primary part may be configured to engagingly receive a plurality of secondary parts. Herein, the invention is further explained with reference to a primary part configured to receive a single secondary part.

The primary part further comprises (c) a primary part rail element configured for a male-female association with the receiver rail element of the support. Hence, the secondary part may slide over the receiver rail element or may slide in between two rail elements. The term “rail element” may thus also relate to a plurality, such as two, especially parallel arranged, rail elements. This may apply to the primary part rail element and/or the receiver rail element. Hence, especially via a translational movement, the primary part may at least partially be integrated into the support. In this way, a male-female association may be created which may substantially block a movement in a direction perpendicular to a body axis of the primary part. Amongst others, in this way strain relief may be obtained. The body axis of the primary part is especially configured parallel to the primary part rail element(s).

The primary part may have an elongated shape. For instance, the primary part may have a bar like shape with at the longer edges primary part rail elements. An edge of the primary part may have an opening (for receipt of the cable which extends from the cable inlet).

The secondary part especially comprises (a) an inlet for receiving a cable, and a functional part, wherein the functional part comprises an outlet for said cable. Hence, when the cable is arranged through the secondary part (especially entering at an edge and leaving the secondary part at a first secondary part side), especially a part of the cable may extend from the inlet (e.g. to a source of power, especially electrical power), and especially a part of the cable may extend from the outlet (e.g. to the light source, to provide power from an external electrical power source to the light source). Hence, when following the arrangement of the cable in operation, the cable enters the secondary part via the inlet (at an edge), exits from the secondary part at the functional part (at the first secondary part side) and enters the support via (the primary part opening and) the support opening of the support (see also below). Note that the terms “inlet”, “outlet” and “cable” may also refer to a plurality of inlet, outlets or cables, respectively. The edge with cable inlet of the secondary part and first secondary part side with functional element and cable outlet may especially be configured perpendicular to each other. This allows a relatively thin multi-part cable module.

The secondary part may have an elongated shape. For instance, the secondary part may have a bar like shape, substantially fitting in an (elongated cavity) of the primary part.

The term “functional part” is used as this part may be the part that provides the cable to the support (and the rest of the (lighting) device). Further, the functional part may be used to block a translational movement of the multi-part cable module relative to the support. For instance, at least part of the functional part may extend into the support via a support opening (see further below). In such embodiments, substantially only a translation perpendicular to the support opening would be possible; however such translation may effectively be blocked by an anchoring of the secondary part in the primary part (see also below). In embodiments, the term “functional part” may also refer to a plurality of functional parts. In such embodiments, the related support will especially also comprise a plurality of support openings.

The primary part is configured such that when the secondary part is (configured) engagingly received by the primary part, the functional part of the secondary part is accessible. An embodiment to obtain such configuration is a primary part comprising a body with a through cavity or a frame-like primary part. Such primary part allow introduction of the secondary part (via a second primary part side) into the primary part and access to the functional part (at or via the first primary part side). Hence, the primary part especially comprises also a primary part opening to provide access to at least part of a functional part of the secondary part (from a first primary part side of the primary part) when the secondary part is engagingly received by the primary part.

Hence, in a stage wherein the multi-part cable module is associated with the support, the secondary part is (configured) engagingly received by the primary part and the multi-part cable module is (configured) associated with the support in a male-female association (via the rail elements). Thereby, translation of the cable in different directions (and rotation) may effectively be blocked. Further, the inlet and/or outlet allow closures of devices with a high ingress protection.

The functional part further comprises a gasket perimetrically surrounding said outlet. A gasket is especially a mechanical seal which fills the space between two or more mating surfaces, generally to prevent leakage from or into the joined objects while under compression. When the multi-part cable module is associated with the support, the gasket may touch the support opening. The gasket may especially comprise a material that can partly be compressed. Hence, the gasket may be pressed into the support opening. The gasket is especially configured to function as gasket for the outlet of the secondary part and the support opening. When the multi-part cable module is associated with the support, the gasket may at least partly extend into the support (via the support opening). Alternatively, the gasket may be associated with the support opening.

The secondary part and gasket are an injection molding product, preferably a plastic or a two-component injection molding product. Examples of materials that might be used for two-component injection molding may e.g. include silicone material for the gasket. Optionally, the cable outlet part of the cable and part of the functional element may be overmolded.

The multi-part cable module may comprise in the secondary part a duct for passing through the cable, said duct comprising a curvature, said curvature having an angle ß in the range of 45° to 180°, preferably from 60° to 120°. This curvature anchors the cable in the duct, and counteracts slipping of the cable inside the duct when the cable is pulled at one end. For a good strain relief, especially the cable may be anchored in the multi-part cable module. To this end, the cable and/or the multi-part cable module may include means to anchor the cable, such as resilient members, click-stop connections, etc. etc. Alternatively or additionally, the cable (especially isolation of an electrical cable) and the multi-part cable module may be bound to each other, e.g. by a weld. Hence, in embodiments the cable is configured anchored in the multi-part cable module. In such embodiments, the cable, or at least part thereof, is part of the multi-part cable module. In yet further embodiments at least part of the cable is integrated in the secondary part. Especially, at the inlet of the secondary part, the cable and the secondary part comprise an overmolding. In particular slipping is counteracted when the cable snugly fits in the duct, or is presence in the duct under permanent compressive force. Said snugly fit (under permanent compressive force) is relatively easily obtainable by injection molding and/or overmolding. Overmolding techniques are known in the art. They may provide a strong and reliable anchoring of the cable in the multi-part cable module (i.e. especially the cable and the secondary part). As indicated above, especially the cable comprises an electrical cable.

The primary part and the secondary part may be provided as separate non-connected items. Hence, the invention also provides a primary part per se and a secondary part per se, each suitable for use in the multi-part cable module as defined herein. Especially however, in embodiments the primary part and secondary part are hingingly coupled with a coupling, such as a hinge; especially the hinge comprises a film hinge. Instead of the film hinge, also other couplings (or hinges) may be applied, such as a rotational connection.

The multi-part cable module may further comprise a body axis. Especially, the body axis is configured parallel to the primary part rail element(s). Several measures may be taken to prevent the secondary part being easily removed from the primary part. Hence, in embodiments the primary part and secondary part are configured such that when the secondary part is (configured) engagingly received by the primary part, the secondary part cannot move relative to the primary part, such as parallel or perpendicular, especially perpendicular, to the body axis (when defined relative to the primary part). Especially, in embodiments the primary part and the secondary part comprise (first) click-stop elements for a click-stop connection when the secondary part is engagingly received by the primary part. In this way, the secondary part may be anchored in the primary part. For instance, the primary part may include a stop element and the secondary part may include a (corresponding) click element; alternatively, the primary part may include a click element and the secondary part may include a (corresponding) stop element. Other anchoring means (known in the art) may also be used. Hence, when arranging the secondary part into the primary part a certain position the first click-stop elements may provide a configuration wherein the secondary part may not be able to get out the primary part or penetrate further into the primary part (cavity).

As indicated above, the functional part may be used to block a translational movement of the multi-part cable module relative to the support. For instance, at least part of the functional part may extend into the support, or extend beyond the support, or extend into the lighting device, via the support opening. Therefore, in embodiments the primary part comprises said first primary part side, wherein the secondary part comprises a first secondary part side, wherein at least part of the functional part extends from said first secondary part side, and wherein at least part of the functional part is configured to extend also from the first primary part side when the secondary part is (configured) engagingly received by the primary part. Other measures may also (additionally) be possible, such as with stop elements and/or click-stop connections (see also below). Note however that the configuration of the rail elements, and thereby the herein described male-female association of the multi-part cable module and the support, in combination with the anchoring of the secondary part in the primary part may already provide the desired lack of translational freedom. The rail elements substantially block a translation perpendicular to a rail axis (body axis), and the functional part extending into the support substantially blocks a translation parallel to the rail axis (body axis).

The support especially comprises a receiver rail element, for providing together with the primary part rail element the male-female association. These rail elements are especially configured such, that when one slides in or over the other, only a translational movement along a rail axis is possible, and substantially no translational movement perpendicular to such axis is possible. In an embodiment, the primary part rail element is configured to be at least partly enclosed by the receiver rail element. In yet other embodiments, the receiver rail element is configured to be at least partly enclosed by the primary part rail element. Especially, both the support and the primary part comprise at both sides rail elements. Amongst others in this way two male-female connections may be made which are especially configured in mirror symmetry. This allows a sliding movement (along the rail elements), but substantially prevents a translational movement perpendicular to the sliding movement. Hence, especially the primary part comprises a set of at least two parallel arranged primary part rail elements (especially thus also parallel to the body axis of the multi-part cable module). Further, especially also the support comprises a set of at least two parallel arranged receiver rail elements. The primary part rail elements of the primary part/multi-part cable module and the receiver rail elements of the support are configured such that a male-female association is possible. The term “male-female association” may also refer to a plurality of such associations. The primary part rail elements of the primary part/multi-part cable module and the receiver rail elements of the support are therefore especially configured such, that when the primary part/multi-part cable module and the support are associated, essentially only a translational movement along a rail axis (body axis) could be possible (but see herein the additional means to prevent this when the multi-part cable module and support are configured associated).

The support may be provided as support in combination with one or more light sources, such as a printed circuit board PCB with one or more light sources, especially light emitting diodes. For instance, the PCB may be attached to the support. The support further comprises a support opening, for receiving the cable, and especially also for receiving at least part of the functional element. The cable, when being an electrical cable, may be functionally coupled to the light source(s), such via an electrically conductive coupling with the PCB.

Further, the support may be configured as heat sink. Hence, the support may be thermally coupled with the PCB and/or light source(s).

The multi-part cable module and support are especially configured for each other, such that a male-female association is possible (like a plug and a socket). Hence, in a further aspect the invention also provides a kit of parts comprising (a) a support comprising a rail element and (b) the multi-part cable module according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein

the multi-part cable module and support are associable in a male-female association by said primary part rail element of the primary part and said receiver rail element of the support; and

the support further comprises a support opening to provide access to at least part of said functional part of the secondary part (from a first support side of the support) when the secondary part is (configured) engagingly received by the primary part.

Such kit of parts allows providing an intimate association of the multi-part cable module and support, such that a IP66 connection may be provided. The phrase “the multi-part cable module and support are associable in a male-female association” especially indicates that the multi-part cable module and support can be configured in a male-female association (can be configured associated). The male-female association(s) is (are) especially provided by the male-female arrangement(s) of the rail element(s) of the multi-part cable module and the rail element(s) of the support,

The kit of parts may not only include the support, but may also include other items that may especially be used for assembling a lighting device. Hence, in embodiments the kit of parts may further comprise a light source and a closure, for functionally coupling with said support to provide a lighting device, wherein the light source especially comprises a light emitting diode (LED). The terms “light source” and “light emitting diode” may also refer to a plurality of light sources or light emitting diodes, respectively. Further, the light source may be provided on a PCB, which may be associated with at least part of the support. For providing a good closure, also complying with e.g. at least IP55, especially at least IP66, the kit of parts may further comprise e.g. one or more gaskets, for providing a seal between e.g. the closure and the support, etc. The closure especially comprises a part that is transmissive for light of the light source; or substantially the entire closure may be transmissive for light of the light source. The closure may include a lens element. The closure may e.g. be a molded or extruded part (of light transmissive material).

As indicated above, the multi-part cable module and support may be configured such that the multi-part cable module cannot move when associated with the support, especially not along a rail axis. Hence, in yet further embodiments (a) one or more of the primary part and the secondary part and (b) the support comprise second click-stop elements for a click-stop connection when the multi-part cable module and support are (configured) associated in the male-female association. Hence, when sliding the primary part along the receiver rail element at a certain position the click-stop elements may provide a configuration wherein the primary part may not be able to slide further or to slide back. For instance, one or more of the primary part and the secondary part may include a stop element and the support may include a (corresponding) click element; alternatively, one or more of the primary part and the secondary part may include a click element and the support may include a (corresponding) stop element. In embodiments, the click-stop elements may be comprised by the rail elements. The receiver rail element and the primary part rail element further substantially block a movement in a direction perpendicular to a rail axis (i.e. an axis parallel to the sliding direction). In this way, the strain relief may (further) be obtained. With respect to the male-female association of the support and the multi-part cable module, a stop element at the primary part rail element(s) and/or at the receiver rail element(s) may also suffice. The phrase “male-female association of the support and the multi-part cable module” and similar phrases, may especially relate to a male-female configuration of the primary part rail element(s) and the receiver rail element(s).

In yet further aspects, the invention provides also a method for providing a lighting device comprising:

providing (a) a light source functionally coupled to a support, (b) a closure, and (c) a multi-part cable module as defined herein with an electrical cable; wherein said support comprises a receiver rail element and a support opening to provide access to at least part of said functional part of the secondary part (from a first support side of the support) when the secondary part is (configured) engagingly received by the primary part; and executing the following actions:

(i) configuring the primary part rail element with the receiver rail element of the support into a male-female association, and arranging at least part of the secondary part into the cavity of the primary part such that the secondary part is engagingly received by the primary part;

(ii) functionally coupling the light source with the electrical cable; and

(iii) functionally coupling the support and the closure to enclose at least part of the light source.

Note that dependent upon the device, and optionally also dependent upon the chosen embodiments, different orders of (i)-(iii) may be applied. For instance, it may be possible in embodiments to first functionally couple the light source with the electrical cable and then execute action (i). It might even be possible that the cable is already associated with the light source, and has to be connected with the multi-part cable module, which thereafter is brought into a male-female association. Especially however, the electrical cable, or at least part thereof, is associated with the multi-part cable module. After configuring the multi-part cable module in a male-female configuration with the support, the light source may functionally be coupled to the cable. The invention also provides the lighting device obtainable with such method.

In yet a further aspect, the invention also provides a lighting device comprising (a) a light source functionally coupled to a support and (b) a closure, wherein the lighting device further comprises a multi-part cable module as defined herein with an electrical cable, wherein:

the closure encloses at least part of the light source;

said support comprises a receiver rail element and a support opening to provide access to at least part of said functional part of the secondary part (from a first support side of the support);

the primary part rail element is (configured) associated with the receiver rail element of the support into a male-female association; and

the secondary part is (configured) engagingly received by the primary part.

As indicated above, the multi-part cable module may essentially not be able to move relative to the support in the associated state. To this end, in embodiments at least part of the functional part extends from the first secondary part side into the support opening, and may even extend over the support face (i.e. first support side). The support opening and functional part may substantially have the same dimensions, thereby allowing a tight fit. The gasket may add to this tight fit (and also to the high protection against particle and/or water ingress).

Further, all embodiments described above in relation to the multi-part cable module and the kit, as well as the method, may also relate to the lighting device per se.

Hence, the invention especially provides in yet a further aspect the use of a multi-part cable module as defined herein for providing a lighting device with high ingress protection, such as IP55 or higher, especially IP65 or higher, such as even more especially IP66 or higher.

The lighting device may be part of or may be applied in e.g. office lighting systems, household application systems, shop lighting systems, home lighting systems, accent lighting systems, spot lighting systems, theater lighting systems, fiber-optics application systems, projection systems, self-lit display systems, pixelated display systems, segmented display systems, warning sign systems, medical lighting application systems, indicator sign systems, decorative lighting systems, portable systems, automotive applications, green house lighting systems, horticulture lighting, or LCD backlighting. Especially, the lighting device may be used for outdoor lighting. The lighting device may be part of an outdoor lighting system.

The schematic drawings are not necessarily on scale.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

For new outdoor LED module used for road lighting, a module is needed which is easy to install for the OEM market. Especially, a complete module with all functionality together in one module: light beam for road lighting; ingress protection, especially IP66; thermal performance and ease of installation in the luminaires. Such module may be built from several main parts:

Lens plate for light beam which can cover the electronics of the PCB.

Gaskets to close the openings on the module for:the closing function between lens plate and base platethe power cable entry of the module connected to the PCBA.

PCBA with LED's for light source

Base plate to mount on the luminaire.

This invention provides a cable entry with an IP66 rating and strain relief.

The present invention can be used in outdoor modules. Below, some parts that may be used in the solution are listed:

1. plastic part with sliding function (primary part)

2. plastic part with a rotation function (secondary part)

3. over molded power cable's with a gasket function

Part 1 and 2 can integrated with e.g. film hinges; with 2K-molding options the gasket and wires (3 & 4) can also integrated, respectively. Especially, the cable is integrated in the primary part, including an overmolding of at least part of the primary part and at least part of the cable, to provide a high ingress protection. Hence, especially the cable is overmolded into the secondary part. Further, a base plate from the LED module with special cut out is used.

FIG. 1schematically depicts a multi-part cable module10for association with a receiver rail element350of a support30. The support30is very schematically depicted, with essentially only the rail element(s)350, for the sake of clarity. For further details with respect to the support30, it is also referred toFIGS. 3aand3b.

The multi-part cable module10comprises a primary part100and a secondary part200. The primary part100is configured to engagingly receive the secondary part200.

The primary part100comprises a cavity110to receive at least part of the secondary part200, and a primary part opening120(at a first primary part side101) to provide access to at least part of a functional part210of the secondary part200from a first primary part side101of the primary part100when the secondary part200is engagingly received by the primary part100. The cavity110comprises a cavity opening at a second primary part side102(opposite of the first primary part side101) of the primary part100. Further, the primary part100includes an edge103, with reference103aindicating (an) end edge(s) and reference103b(seeFIG. 2b) indicating (a) side edge(s). Here, the primary part100is substantially a hollow frame. Part of the primary part may also be configured for access of at least the cable410. Hence, in the embodiment schematically depicted inFIGS. 1 and 3a, the primary part has an opening at the edge (for receipt of the cable), here end edge103a. In this way, the primary part100also provides space for the cable410at the cable inlet220at the edge203a. Other embodiments may also be possible.

The primary part100further comprises a primary part rail element150configured for a male-female association with the receiver rail element350of the support30.

The secondary part200comprises an inlet220for receiving a cable410, and said functional part210, wherein the functional part comprises an outlet230for said cable410. The secondary part200comprise a first secondary part side201and (opposite thereof) a second secondary part side202. Further, the secondary part200includes an edge203, with reference203aindicating (an) end edge(s) and reference203b(seeFIGS. 2a-2b) indicating (a) side edge(s).

Hence,FIG. 1also schematically depicts a kit of parts1000comprising the support30comprising a rail element350and the multi-part cable module10according to any one of the preceding claims. As is shown in the graph, the multi-part cable module10and support30are associable in a male-female association by said primary part rail element150of the primary part100and said receiver rail element350of the support30. Yet further, the support30further comprises a support opening (not depicted) to provide access to at least part of said functional part210of the secondary part200(from a first support side301of the support30) when the secondary part200is engagingly received by the primary part100.

A way of configuring in a male-female association the multi-part cable module10to the support30is indicated with the arrows. The primary part100is slided to the support30and the secondary part200is arranged to the primary part100. To this end, the primary part comprises here a through cavity100, with at the top or the first primary part side101an opening. Through this opening101, the functional part210may at least partly extend into the support30. The functional part210may further also at least partly extend into and through the support opening (not depicted).

As can be derived fromFIG. 1, the rail elements150,350are configured to provide two male-female connections, which are configured in mirror symmetry. This allows a sliding movement (along the rail elements150,350), but substantially prevents a translational movement perpendicular to the sliding movement.

A cable is indicated with dashes; the cable is indicated with reference410. Reference411indicates an electrical cable.

The secondary part200may further be anchored in the primary part with click-stop elements. Embodiments of the click-stop elements associated with the primary part are schematically indicated inFIG. 1, indicated with reference161, this may e.g. be a click element (of first stop-click elements). The click-stop elements that anchor the secondary part200to the primary part100are herein also indicated as first click-stop elements.

Likewise, the primary part100may further be anchored in the support30with click-stop elements. Embodiments of the click-stop elements associated with the support30are also schematically indicated inFIG. 1. The click-stop elements that anchor the primary part100to the support30are herein also indicated as second click-stop elements. Alternatively or additionally to the second click-stop elements, the support30or the multi-part cable module10, especially one or more of their rail elements may include a stop element (see alsoFIG. 3a).

References201and202indicate a first side and a second side of the secondary part200, respectively. At least part of the functional part210extends from said first secondary part side201. Further, as indicated above at least part of the functional part210is configured to extend also from the first primary part side101when the secondary part200is engagingly received by the primary part100.

Reference12indicates a body axis of the multi-part cable module10. The primary part100and secondary part200are configured such that when the secondary part200is engagingly received by the primary part100, the secondary part200cannot move parallel to the body axis12.

FIG. 1also shows that the functional part210further comprises a gasket240perimetrically surrounding said outlet230. Optionally, the gasket240is not comprised by the functional part210but by the primary support30. Further, optionally also part of the functional part210and the cable410at the outlet230are overmolded (not depicted).

The primary part100may have an elongated shape. For instance, the primary part100may have a bar like shape with at the longer edges primary part rail elements150.

The secondary part200may have an elongated shape. For instance, the secondary part200may have a bar like shape, substantially fitting in an (elongated) cavity110of the primary part100. The edge with inlet220of the secondary part200and the first secondary part side201may especially be configured perpendicular to each other.

FIG. 2aschematically depicts in more detail an embodiment of the primary part200, here with the cable410integrated into the secondary part. In this embodiment, the cable410enters via an edge203, here (end) edge203a, of the secondary part200and exits via the functional part210at the first side201. A gasket240is comprised by the functional part. Note that the functional part extends from the first side201. The secondary part200and gasket240may e.g. be a two-component injection molding product. Further, the schematical drawing2ashows that at the inlet220of the secondary part, the cable410and the secondary part200comprises an overmolding222. Secondary part200comprises said first side201, and a second side202and an edge203, with (an) end edge(s)203aand (a) side edge(s)203b.

In the enlarged detailed portion ofFIG. 2it is shown that the multi-part cable module comprises in the secondary part a duct460for passing through the cable, said duct comprising a curvature450, said curvature having an angle ß in the range of 45° to 180°, in the figure 90°. This curvature anchors the cable in the duct, and counteracts slipping of the cable inside the duct when the cable is pulled at. At least part of the cable is integrated in the secondary part. Especially, at the inlet of the secondary part, the cable and the secondary part comprise an overmolding. In particular slipping is counteracted when the cable snugly fits in the duct, or is presence in the duct under permanent compressive force.

In relation toFIG. 1click-stop elements161were indicated, which are part first click-stop elements. The counter part of these click-stop elements161at the primary part100are the click-stop elements261schematically depicted inFIG. 2aat the secondary part200. Together, these click-stop elements161,261form the first click-stop elements161,261(for a click-stop connection when the secondary part200is engagingly received by the primary part100).

FIGS. 2band 2cschematically depict some configurations of the multi-part cable module10, wherein in both embodiments the primary part100and secondary part200are coupled via a coupling510. Here, the primary part100and secondary part200are hingingly coupled, inFIG. 2bthis coupling is via an axis, to provide a rotational coupling511of the elements, and inFIG. 2cthis coupling is via a film hinge512. As indicated above, references120and112indicate openings in the primary part100at the first primary part side101and second primary part side102, respectively, here providing the through cavity.

Reference h1indicates the height of the functional part210relative to the first primary part side101. Height h1may e.g. be in the range of 0.5-20 mm, such as 1-15 mm, like 1.5-10 mm.

In relation toFIG. 1, click-stop elements361were indicated, which are part of the second click-stop elements. The counter part of these click-stop elements at the primary part100are the click-stop elements561schematically depicted inFIGS. 2b-2cat the primary part100(at the edge103, i.e. side edge103b). These click-stop elements361,561form the second click-stop elements361,561(for a click-stop connection when the multi-part cable module10and support30are (configured) associated in the male-female association).

The assembling and connecting method e.g. include:

Slide primary part in the groove of the base plate till the part is blocked by a stopper which is integrated in primary part.

Rotate secondary part which can be integrated with primary part. Integration options are; a film hinges or a click and rotation mechanism which can hold both parts together.

During the rotation the cable inside secondary part, will enter the top surface location of the base plate with PCBA and connector.

In the end position of the rotation, the plastic secondary part will click that it can't rotate.

A plastic rim which is integrated in secondary part, will hold the plastic parts inside a cut out of the base plate to prevent a sliding movement outwards.

The connected surfaces of the base plate and secondary part can clamp a gasket. Secondary part has e.g. an IP66 rating with the cutout for the base plate.

The clamping force to get e.g. an IP66 rating needed for lifetime after installation the module inside the luminaire can hold by the click mechanism or the surface pressure of the luminaire.

FIG. 3aschematically depicts again a kit of parts1000. Here, the primary part100and secondary part200are hingingly coupled. First, the multi-part cable module10may be slided to the receiver rail element350, with the multi-part cable module in opened position. When the male-female association with the receiver rail element350of the support30is obtained (see also the (click-)stop element661), the cable410that exits the multi-part cable module10at the functional part210can be arranged through the support opening320. Thereafter, the secondary part200can be rotated to be received by the cavity110until the secondary part200is fully engagingly received by the primary part100(see also the click-stop element161,261). Reference301indicates a support face. The functional element210may not only extend into the support inlet320but may even protrude beyond the support face301. The edge of the primary part100comprises an access for the cable410: an opening at the edge (for receipt of the cable), here an end edge (see alsoFIG. 1).

FIGS. 3band 3cschematically depict cross-sectional views of the multi-part cable module10in the male-female association with the support30. Here, the support30by way of example comprises two receiver rail elements350for e.g. receiving two different modules.

FIG. 4schematically depicts a lighting device1comprising a light source1010functionally coupled to a support30and a closure1020. Here, a plurality of light sources1010are depicted. Reference25indicates a PCB with the plurality of light sources. Reference24indicates a gasket to seal the closure1020. Here, the closure is a lens plate with lenses1021for the light sources. The multi-part cable module is integrated in the support30, and is not visible in this schematic drawing.

The term “substantially” herein, such as in “substantially consists”, will be understood by the person skilled in the art. The term “substantially” may also include embodiments with “entirely”, “completely”, “all”, etc. Hence, in embodiments the adjective substantially may also be removed. Where applicable, the term “substantially” may also relate to 90% or higher, such as 95% or higher, especially 99% or higher, even more especially 99.5% or higher, including 100%. The term “comprise” includes also embodiments wherein the term “comprises” means “consists of”. The term “and/or” especially relates to one or more of the items mentioned before and after “and/or”. For instance, a phrase “item 1 and/or item 2” and similar phrases may relate to one or more of item 1 and item 2. The term “comprising” may in an embodiment refer to “consisting of” but may in another embodiment also refer to “containing at least the defined species and optionally one or more other species”.

Furthermore, the terms first, second, third and the like in the description and in the claims, are used for distinguishing between similar elements and not necessarily for describing a sequential or chronological order. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and that the embodiments of the invention described herein are capable of operation in other sequences than described or illustrated herein. Likewise this may apply to terms like “primary” and “secondary”.

The invention further applies to a device comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings. The invention further pertains to a method or process comprising one or more of the characterizing features described in the description and/or shown in the attached drawings.