Lighting devices for ceiling grids

A lighting device includes a housing, a light source, a light guide panel, a lens, and a rotatable clip. The housing includes an internal cavity. The light guide panel is configured to diffuse light emitted by the one or more light sources. The lens includes a base, a first side wall, and a second side wall defining an internal cavity. The lens is coupled to the housing such that at least a portion of the housing is disposed within the internal cavity of the lens and at least a portion of the light diffused by the light guide panel is emitted through the base, the first side wall, and the second side wall of the lens. The rotatable clip is coupled to the housing and is configured to mount the lighting device to an external structure.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to lighting devices, and more particularly, to lighting devices including a rotatable clip for mounting the lighting device to an external structure (e.g., a ceiling tile grid) and methods for using the same.

BACKGROUND

Many indoor spaces (e.g., residential or commercial) have so-called drop ceilings, which often include a number of ceiling tiles that are supported by support members arranged in a grid. Various light fixtures can be used in connection with these ceiling grids, such as lights recessed the in ceiling tiles, lighting panels positioned in the grid (e.g., in place of ceiling tiles), and suspended light fixtures. While certain lighting devices can be coupled to the ceiling tile support members, these lighting devices suffer from several drawbacks and limitations. First, placement of these lighting devices is limited to due to the grid arrangement of the ceiling tile support members. In other words, these lighting devices generally must be arranged in exactly the same pattern as the grid so that they have adequate structural support. Second, even if these lighting devices were substantially flush to the ceiling tile support member(s) and/or ceiling tile(s), they typically include an opaque heat sink that blocks light from exiting the sides. As a result, these lighting devices form dark borders against the drop ceiling, which are aesthetically unappealing.

Further, many lighting devices include light emitting diodes (LEDs) as a light source, such as LED strips that are covered by a lens. However, lighting devices containing these LED strips suffer from several drawbacks and limitations, including hot spots on the lens, dark spots on the lens, uneven distribution of light on the lens, and the like. Further, while it may be possible to position two such lighting devices so that they have abutting surfaces (e.g., abutting ends), there will typically be a dark line or edge at the joint between the two lighting devices, which is aesthetically unappealing. The present disclosure is directed to solving these and other problems.

SUMMARY

According to some implementations of the present disclosure, a lighting device includes a housing, one or more light sources, a light guide panel, a lens, and one or more rotatable clips. The housing includes an internal cavity. The one or more light sources are disposed within the internal cavity of the housing. The light guide panel is disposed within the internal cavity of the housing and is configured to diffuse light emitted by the one or more light sources. The lens includes a base, a first side wall, and a second side wall defining an internal cavity, the lens being coupled to the housing such that at least a portion of the housing is disposed within the internal cavity of the lens and light diffused by the light guide panel is emitted through the base, the first side wall, and the second side wall of the lens. The one or more rotatable clips are coupled to the housing and are configured to mount the lighting device to an external structure.

According to some implementations of the present disclosure, a system includes a plurality of lighting devices and a plurality of rotatable clips. Each of the plurality of lighting devices include a housing, a light source, light guide panel, and a lens. The housing includes an internal cavity. The light source is disposed within the internal cavity of the housing. The light guide panel is disposed within the internal cavity of the housing and is configured to diffuse light emitted by the light source. The lens includes a base, a first side wall, and a second side wall, the lens being coupled to the housing such that diffused light from the light guide panel is emitted through the base, the first side wall, and the second side wall of the lens. Each of the plurality of rotatable clips are configured to couple to one of the plurality of lighting devices and one of a plurality of ceiling tile support members such that each of the plurality of lighting devices can be rotated relative to the plurality of ceiling tile support members.

According to some implementations of the present disclosure, a method includes removing a ceiling tile from a ceiling grid including a plurality of ceiling tile support members. The method also includes coupling a rotatable clip to a first one of the plurality of ceiling tile support members. The method also includes coupling a lighting device to the rotatable clip, the lighting device including a housing, a light source, a light guide panel configured to diffuse light emitted by the light source, and a lens including a base, a first side wall, and a second side wall, the lens being coupled to the housing such that at least a portion of the diffused light is emitted through the base, the first side wall, and the second side wall of the lens. The method also includes electrically coupling the lighting device to a power supply.

The above summary is not intended to represent each implementation or every aspect of the present disclosure. Additional features and benefits of the present disclosure are apparent from the detailed description and figures set forth below.

While the present disclosure is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific implementations and embodiments thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will herein be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that it is not intended to limit the present disclosure to the particular forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the present disclosure is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally toFIGS.1-6, a lighting device100according to some implementations of the present disclosure is illustrated. The lighting device100generally includes a housing110, a lens130, a first bracket140A, a second bracket140B, a light source150, a light guide panel160, a rotatable clip170, and a power cable190. Generally, the lighting device100is mounted to an external structure or surface via the rotatable clip170, such as a ceiling tile support member that is part of a ceiling tile grid. Advantageously, the rotatable clip170allows the lighting device100to be rotated relative to the ceiling tile support member, thereby allowing the lighting device100to be arranged in various orientations relative to the ceiling tile grid.

Further, as described herein, in some implementations, a plurality of lighting devices that are the same as, or similar to, the lighting device100can be included in a lighting system wherein each of the plurality of lighting devices are mounted to an external structure or surface, such as ceiling tile support members. In such implementations, the plurality of the lighting devices (e.g., two lighting devices, three lighting devices, four lighting devices, six lighting devices, etc.) can be arranged on a ceiling tile grid in a geometric pattern, such as, for example, a line, a rectangle, a square, a triangle, a parallelogram, a hexagon, etc.

Referring toFIGS.2A and2B, the housing110of the lighting device100includes a base112, a first side wall120A, and a second side wall120B. The base112, the first side wall120B, and the second side wall120B generally define an internal cavity125. The base112includes a central groove114, a first threaded groove116A, and a second threaded groove116B. As shown inFIG.2B, the central groove114, the first threaded groove116A, and the second threaded groove116B extend along a longitudinal axis of the housing110(e.g., along the entire length of the housing110). The central groove114has a generally rectangular profile, and as described herein, is sized and shaped to receive a portion of the rotatable clip170therein. The first threaded groove116A includes threads configured to engage a threaded fastener (e.g., a screw) to aid in coupling the rotatable clip170to the housing110. The first threaded groove116A can include a countersink or counterbore for receiving a portion of the fastener therein. The second threaded groove116B is the same as, or similar to, the first threaded groove116A. The base112also includes a first protrusion118A and a second protrusion118B extending from a lower surface that, as described herein, contact the light guide panel160when the lighting device100is assembled (FIG.4). As shown inFIG.2B, the base112also includes an aperture115for allowing the power cable190to be fed through the housing110.

The first side wall120A extends generally perpendicular to the base112and includes a first ledge122A and a first slot124A. The first ledge122A and the first slot124A aid in coupling the lens130to the housing110. The first side wall120A also includes a first flange126aextending laterally towards a center of the housing110to define a first lateral groove128A between an upper surface of the base112and the first flange126a. The first flange126aand the first lateral groove128A aid in coupling the rotatable clip170to the housing110. As shown inFIG.2B, the first ledge122A, the first slot124A, and the first flange126aextend along the longitudinal axis of the housing110(e.g., along the entire length of the housing110). The second side wall120B is the same as, or similar to, the first side wall120A and includes a first ledge122B and a first slot124B that are the same as, or similar to, the first ledge122A and the first slot124A, respectively. The second side wall120B includes a second flange126bextending laterally towards the center of the housing110to define a second lateral groove128B between the upper surface of the base112and the second flange126b.

In some implementations, the housing110comprises aluminum and acts as a heat sink that aids in absorbing and/or distributing heat generated by the light source150. The base112, the first side wall120A, and the second side wall120B are shown as being unitary and/or monolithic (e.g., formed as a single aluminum extrusion). However, in other implementations, one or more of the112, the first side wall120A, and the second side wall120B can be separate components that are coupled to one another (e.g., welded together).

Referring toFIG.3A, the lens130includes a base132, a first side wall134A, and a second side wall134B. The first side wall134A and second side wall134B generally extend perpendicular to the base132such that the base132, the first side wall134A, and the second side wall134B generally define an internal cavity135. The first side wall134A includes a first ridge136A and a first hook138B, which extend along a longitudinal axis of the lens130(e.g., along the entire length of the lens130). Similarly, the second side wall134B includes a second ridge136B and a second hook138B that are the same as, or similar to, the first ridge136A and the first hook138B. The lens130generally comprises a material (e.g., a polymer) for allowing light to pass through so that light emitted from a light source in the internal cavity135is emitted outside of the lens130. By contrast, the housing110generally comprises a material (e.g., aluminum) that does not allow light to pass through. In some implementations, the lens130includes a frosted surface (e.g., roughened, textured, or patterned) to aid in diffusing light in multiple directions.

Referring toFIG.3B, a first bracket140A includes a first hook142A, a first protrusion144A, and a first angled portion146A. As described below, the first bracket140A aids in coupling the lens130to the housing110. The first bracket140A can also aid in protecting a light source (e.g., from mechanical damage during handling or assembly of the lighting device100) and/or securing the light guide panel160between the housing110and the lens130. Referring to FIG.3C, second bracket140B, which is the same as, or similar to, the first bracket140A (FIG.3B) includes a second hook142B, a second protrusion144B, and a second angled portion146B, which are the same as, or similar to, the first hook142A, the first protrusion144A, and the first angled portion146A, respectively. In some implementations, the first bracket140A and/or second bracket140B extend along substantially the entire length of the housing110when assembled within the lighting device100.

Referring toFIG.4, the lens130is coupled to the housing110such that at least a portion of the housing110is disposed within the internal cavity135of the lens130. To aid in coupling the housing110to the lens130, the first bracket140A is positioned between the first side wall120A of the housing110and the first side wall134aof the lens130. More specifically, the first bracket140A is positioned such that the first hook142A is coupled to (e.g., via a snap fit) the first ledge122A of the first side wall120A of the housing110. Additionally, the first protrusion144A of the first bracket140A is disposed within the first slot124A of the first side wall120A of the housing110. In turn, the first bracket140A is positioned between the first ridge136A and the first hook138A of the first side wall134aof the lens130, forming a snap fit connection between the lens130and the first bracket140A.

Similar to the first bracket140A, the second bracket140B is positioned between the second side wall120B of the housing110and the second side wall134bof the lens130. More specifically, the second bracket140B is positioned such that the second hook142B is coupled to (e.g., via a snap fit) the second ledge122B of the second side wall120B of the housing110. Additionally, the second protrusion144B of the second bracket140B is disposed within the second slot124B of the second side wall120A of the housing110. In turn, the second bracket140B is positioned between the second ridge136B and the second hook138A of the second side wall134bof the lens130, forming a snap fit connection between the lens130and the second bracket140B.

Generally, the light source150emits light having a predetermined wavelength (e.g., between about 400 nm and about 700 nm), which in turn is emitted from the lighting device100through the lens130. As shown inFIG.4, the light source150is disposed within the internal cavity115of the housing110and is coupled to an inner surface of the second side wall122A of the housing110(e.g., via one or more double sided adhesive strips). In some implementations, the light source150generally extends along substantially an entire length of the second side wall122A of the housing110.

In some implementations, the light source150includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) that emit light having a predetermined wavelength. The plurality of LEDs can include white LEDs, blue LEDs (e.g., III-nitride LEDs), red LEDs, green LEDs, yellow LEDs, amber LEDs, orange LEDs, infrared LEDs, ultraviolet LEDs, or any combination thereof. The plurality of LEDs can be dimmable (e.g., together or individually controllable). The plurality of LEDs can be mounted to a support substrate (e.g., a rigid board/plate, a flexible strip/film, printed circuit board, etc.), which in turn is coupled to the second side wall122B of the housing110. Generally, the plurality of LEDs can be mounted to the support substrate using any suitable package (e.g., a surface mount package, a chip-on-board package, a through-pin package, etc.). Further, the plurality of LEDs can be electrically coupled to one another using any suitable mechanism or technique (e.g., in series, in parallel, via wiring, via traces, etc.). In some implementations, the plurality of LEDs can be at least partially surrounded by an encapsulant that protects the plurality of LEDs (e.g., from mechanical damage) and/or modifies the light emission characteristics. For example, the encapsulant can include a wavelength converter (e.g., a phosphor material) that converts a first wavelength of light emitted by the LEDs (e.g., blue) to a second wavelength of light (e.g., white), which is then emitted from encapsulant.

In some implementations, the lighting device100includes a plurality of light sources that are the same as, or similar to, the light source150. For example, the lighting device100can include a plurality of light sources that are each coupled to the second side wall120B of the housing110. As another example, in some implementations, the lighting device100can include a first light source coupled to the second side wall122B of the housing110(as shown inFIG.4) and a second light source coupled to the first side wall122A of the housing110. In such implementations, the first light source and the second light source can emit different wavelengths of light (e.g., the first light source emits white light and the second light source emits one or more other colors).

The light source150receives power from the power cable190, which is fed through the aperture115(FIG.2B) in the housing110. As shown inFIG.1, the power cable190includes a connector192that can be coupled to a power supply (e.g., an AC electrical outlet). In some implementations, the connector192is coupled to a power feed wire via another connector, and in turn the power feed wire is coupled to the power supply. In some implementations, the power feed wire includes a AC/DC converter for converting power from an AC electrical outlet. In some implementations, the lighting device100further includes a power supply enclosure that includes one or more constant voltage or constant current drivers (e.g., three drivers) for powering the light source150. As described herein, the lighting device100can be used in system including multiple lighting devices. In such implementations, the connector192can be coupled to a power supply enclosure that is also coupled to connectors from one or more additional lighting devices that are the same as, or similar to, the lighting device100.

The light guide panel160generally aids in diffusing light emitted by the light source150. In some implementations, the light guide panel160comprises an acrylic material that aids in diffusing light across substantially the entire length and width of the light guide panel160. The light guide panel160has a generally rectangular profile and extends along substantially the entire length of the housing110and/or the light source150. The light guide panel160does not include any fasteners (e.g., screws) that couple to the housing110because such fasteners would cause dark spots where light would not be emitted from the light guide panel.

To aid in avoiding such dark spots, the light guide panel160can be coupled to the housing110via an adhesive (e.g., one or more double sided adhesive strips, which can be reusable). In such implementations, the adhesive strip(s) can have a width of about 0.375 inches and a length of about 3 inches. In some cases, heat generated by the light guide panel160may cause degradation of the adhesive strip(s) (e.g., reducing its holding power). Thus, the adhesive strip preferably has a heat resistance rating of about 120 degrees Fahrenheit. To secure the light guide panel160the housing110, the adhesive strip can have a peel adhesion that is between about 35 oz/in (N/100 mm) and about 70 oz/in (N/100 mm). In one non-limiting example, the adhesive strip is a 3M™ Flexographic Plate Mounting Tape or a 3M™ Cushion-Mount™ Printing Tape, which is generally used for mounting flexographic print plates to cylinders or sleeves. Such double-sided tapes are particularly advantageous for coupling the light guide panel160to the housing110, for example, due to their holding power and heat resistance. Another non-limiting example, the adhesive strip can be a 3M™ Cushion-Mount™ Plus Standard Combination Plate Mounting Tape, Product Number E1040H.

In some implementations, a first side of the light guide panel160includes a laminate or film that further aids in extracting and diffusing light from the light guide panel160. In such implementations including the laminate/film, the light guide panel160preferably has a width that is about 2.875 inches or less (e.g., 1.75 inches). The film can be a matte polyester film coated with a pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive and a release liner backing. In one non-limiting example, the film on the light guide panel160can be a FLEXcon COMPUcall II® PM 100 C MTC-329 L-23 58PW-8 film. In some implementations, the light guide panel160includes a first end or end that is clear and a second end or edge including reflective tape (e.g., silver or white). The reflective tape prevents light from escaping the second edge of the light guide panel and reflects the light back towards the first edge, thereby increasing light diffusion and extraction out of the light guide panel160.

As shown inFIG.4, the light guide panel160is positioned between the first angled portion148A of the first bracket140A, the second angled portion148B of the second bracket140A, the first protrusion118A of the housing110, and the second protrusion118B of the housing110. The light source150is positioned between the second side wall122B of the housing110, the light guide panel160, and the second bracket140B. This arrangement aids in inhibiting physical contact between the light source150and another object or a user (e.g., if the lens130were removed).

While the light source150emits in multiple directions, the light source150generally emits light towards the first side wall122A of the housing110in a first direction. This light passes into the light guide panel160, which also emits light in a plurality of directions, but generally in a second direction towards the base132of the lens130. The light source150and the light guide panel160are arranged such that the first direction is generally perpendicular to the second direction. Many lighting devices do not use a light guide panel; instead, they use one or more LED light strips that are coupled to the fixture housing. Using the light guide panel160is advantageous over such arrangements in that the light guide panel160evenly distributes light across substantially its entire width and length, aids in preventing or reducing hot spots on the lens130, and aids in preventing or reducing darks spots on the lens130. Further, diffusion of the light by the light guide panel160aids in causing light to be emitted through the first side wall134aand the second side wall134bof the lens130(e.g., as opposed to only through the base132of the lens130).

Coupling the lens130to the housing110such that a portion of the lens130wraps around the housing110is advantageous for several reasons. In many lighting devices, a lens may be disposed within the housing (e.g., heat sink) such that the housing warps around the edges of the lens. However, in this arrangement, the housing blocks light from passing through the sides of the lens. By contrast, the arrangement of the lens130and the housing110in the lighting device100permits a portion of the light diffused by the light guide panel160to be emitted not only through the base132of the lens130, but at least a portion of the first side wall134aand the second side wall134bof the lens130(e.g., at least the portion of the first side wall134abetween the first ridge136A and the base132and at least the portion of the second side wall134bbetween the second ridge136B and the base132). Accordingly, light will be emitted from multiple surfaces of the lens130(e.g., not just the bottom surface), which is particularly advantageous when the lighting device100is mounted to an external surface, such as a ceiling tile grid. Light emitted from the first side wall134aand second side wall134bof the lens130hides or obscures the housing110when the lighting device100is mounted to a ceiling tile grid and aids in reducing the contrast borders of a dark ceiling for a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. The light emitted from the lens130also creates a halo lighting effect that counters the cave lighting effect that is typical for recessed light fixtures.

Referring toFIG.5, the rotatable clip170includes a base plate172and a rotatable portion180. The base plate172includes an aperture174for receiving a rivet178therein for coupling the rotatable portion180to the base plate172. The base plate172is sized and shaped such that a first portion can be received within the first lateral groove128A of the housing110and a second portion can be received within the second lateral groove128B of the housing110to aid in coupling the rotatable clip170to the housing110. As shown, the base plate172includes opposing curved edges, which aid in permitting lateral movement of the base plate172relative to the housing110with the edges engaged by the first lateral groove128A and the second lateral groove128B of the housing110. Lateral movement of the base plate172relative to the housing110allows an installer to position the rotatable clip170at any location along the length of the housing110. The base plate172also includes a first aperture176A and a second aperture176B so that the base plate172can be coupled to the housing110A via a first fastener188A that threadingly engages the first threaded groove116A of the housing110and a second fastener188B that threadingly engages the second threaded groove116B of the housing110(e.g., as shown inFIG.1). Additionally, the rivet178is disposed within the central groove114of the housing110when the rotatable clip170is coupled to the housing110.

The rotatable portion180includes an aperture182, a first deflectable arm184A, a second deflectable arm184B, a first clasp186A, and a second clasp186B. The first deflectable arm184A and the second deflectable arm184B are moveable relative to the rest of the rotatable portion180. As described herein, the deflectable arm184A, the second deflectable arm184B, the first clasp186A, and the second clasp186B engage edges of a ceiling tile support member to mount the lighting device100to a ceiling grid. The rotatable portion180is coupled to the base plate172via the rivet178(which extends through the aperture182) such that the rotatable portion180can rotate 360 degrees relative to the base plate172. When the base plate172is coupled to the housing110, the rotatable portion180can rotate 360 degrees relative to the base plate172and the housing110. Similarly, when the rotatable portion180is mounted to a ceiling tile support member, the entire lighting device100can rotate 360 degrees relative to the ceiling tile support member.

While the lighting device100is shown as including one rotatable clip170, in some implementations, the lighting device100includes a plurality of rotatable clips that are the same as, or similar to, the rotatable clip170. For example, in such implementations, the lighting device100can include a plurality of rotatable clips coupled to the housing at a predetermined interval (e.g., every 12 inches, every 18 inches, every 24 inches, every 36 inches, etc.). The rotatable clip170comprises a metal material (e.g., steel, aluminum, etc.), although other materials are contemplated (e.g., polymers). The base plate172and the rotatable portion180can comprise the same material, or different materials (e.g., the base plate172comprises a metal and the rotatable portion180comprises a polymer).

Referring toFIGS.5and6, in some implementations, the lighting device100includes a first lens end cap210A, a first housing end cap220A, and a first finishing end cap230A on a first end of the lighting device100(FIGS.5and6) and/or a second lens end cap210B, a second housing end cap220B, and a second finishing end cap230B on a second end of the lighting device100(FIG.6). The first lens cap210A is coupled to (e.g., adhered to) the first side wall134A, the second side wall134A, and the base132of the lens130to enclose the end of the lens130. The first lens end cap210A can comprise the same material as the rest of the lens130, or a different material or finish. The second lens cap210B (FIG.6) is the same as, or similar to, the first lens cap210A.

The first housing end cap220A abuts a first end of the first side wall120A, the second side wall120B, and the base112of the housing110. The housing end cap220includes a tongue222A that engages the central groove114of the housing110to couple the housing end cap220to the housing110(e.g., via a press or interference fit). The first housing end cap220A creates a flush surface at the end of the lighting device100and inhibits light from the light source150and/or light guide panel160from being emitted out of the end of the housing110. The second housing end cap220B is the same as, or similar to, the first housing end cap220B and is coupled to a second, opposing end of the lighting device100(FIG.6).

The first finishing end cap230A abuts the first housing end cap220A and includes a tongue232A that is received within the first lateral groove128A and the second lateral groove128B of the housing110to couple the finishing end cap230to the housing110. Together, the first housing end cap220A and first finishing end cap230A create a flush surface along the entire end of the housing110. The second finishing end cap230B is the same as, or similar to, the first finishing end cap230A and includes a tongue232B that is the same as, or similar to, the tongue232A of the first finishing end cap230A.

Referring toFIG.7, in some implementations, the lighting device100includes the first lens end cap210A, the first housing end cap220A, and an alignment plate240(instead of the finishing end cap230A). The alignment plate240is generally used to couple the lighting device100to another lighting device that is the same as, or similar to, the lighting device100. The alignment plate240is received within lateral groove128A and the second lateral groove128B of the housing110to couple the alignment plate240to the housing110. Further, the alignment plate240includes apertures for receiving fasteners (e.g., screws) therein, which threadingly engage the first threaded groove116A and the second threaded groove116B of the housing110to couple the alignment plate240to the housing110. A shown inFIG.7, the lighting device100, in some implementations, can have a mitered end (e.g., an angled end as opposed to a straight end) for abutting another lighting device. In such implementations, the miter angle can be between about 30 degrees and about 80 degrees (e.g., 45 degrees, 60 degrees, 75 degrees, etc.). One or both ends of the lighting device100can have a mitered end.

As described herein, the lighting device100can be arranged (e.g., when coupled to a ceiling tile support member via the rotatable clip170) so that an end abuts an end of another lighting device. The alignment plate240aids in aligning the lighting device100with the other lighting device so that the edges are flush. This aids in preventing or reducing any dark lines/edges in the emitted light at the joint or juncture between the lighting device100and the other lighting device, giving an appearance that the lighting device100and the other lighting device are a single, unitary lighting device. For example, referring toFIG.8, the lighting device100can be arranged to abut another lighting device800that is the same as, or similar to, the lighting device100to form a miter joint802(e.g., a 90-degree angle). As shown, there is a miter seam or edge804between the lighting device100and the lighting device800. As described above, the light guide panel in each of the lighting devices aids in diffusing light such that there is not a dark line or edge at the miter seam804between the lighting device100and lighting device800, which would otherwise occur if the lighting devices did not use a light guide panel. In other words, the miter joint802gives the appearance of a single, unitary lighting device, as opposed to two separate lighting devices that abut one another.

The lighting device100described herein can have a variety of shapes and sizes. For example, in some implementations, the lighting device100has a centerline length that is between about 24 inches and about 72 inches (e.g., 24 inches, 30 inches, 48 inches, 60 inches, 72 inches, etc.). In some implementations, the lens130of the lighting device100has a width that is between about 2 inches and about 6 inches (e.g., about 3.5 inches). In some implementations, the lighting device100has a depth (e.g., measured from an upper surface of the housing110to a lower surface of the lens130) that is about 1 inch.

As discussed above, the lighting devices described herein can be mounted to a ceiling tile grid. The ceiling tile grid can include any number of ceiling tiles and ceiling tile support members (e.g., brackets with a T-shaped cross-section). The ceiling tiles in the ceiling tile grid can be rectangular, square, triangular, parallelograms, hexagons, or any combination thereof, with the ceiling tile support members arranged in a corresponding pattern to support the ceiling tiles. The ceiling tiles can be, for example, flat lay-in or tegular ceiling tiles.

Referring toFIG.9, a method900for installing a lighting device (e.g., the lighting device100) on a ceiling tile grid according to some implementations of the present disclosure is illustrated. The method900can be implemented using any of the lighting devices described herein (e.g., the lighting device100).

Step901of the method900includes laying out a pattern on the ceiling tile grid. For example, referring toFIG.10A, step901can include positioning the lighting device100adjacent to a ceiling tile support member1010A between a first ceiling tile1002A and a second ceiling tile1002B in a ceiling tile grid1000. For example, the installer can mark on the ceiling tile support member1010A where to couple the rotatable clip170of the lighting device100. The pattern can be laid out in a number of ways. For example, the pattern can be laid out such that a longitudinal axis of the lighting device100is generally parallel and coincident with a longitudinal axis of the ceiling tile support member1010A. As another example, the pattern can be laid out such that the longitudinal axis of the lighting device100at an angle (e.g., 90 degrees, 45 degrees, etc.) relative to the longitudinal axis of the ceiling tile support member1010A.

Referring back toFIG.9, step902of the method900includes removing one or more ceiling tiles from the ceiling tile grid. For example, as shown inFIG.10B, the second ceiling tile1002B can be at least partially removed from the ceiling tile grid1000. Step903of the method900includes coupling one or more rotatable clips (e.g., that are the same as, or similar to, the rotatable clip170) to a ceiling tile support member. For example, referring toFIG.10B, a ceiling tile1002B is removed from the ceiling tile grid1000and a first rotatable clip170A is coupled to the first ceiling tile support member20A and a second rotatable clip170B is coupled to a second ceiling tile support member20B. The first rotatable clip170A and second rotatable clip170B are the same as, or similar to, the rotatable clip170described above.

Referring again toFIG.9, step904of the method900includes coupling a lighting device to the one or more rotatable clips (step903). For example, referring toFIG.10C, the lighting device100can be coupled to the first rotatable clip170A and the second rotatable clip170B (FIG.10B). To do so, the installer can position the lighting device100such that the base plate of the rotatable clip slides into the first lateral groove128A and second lateral groove128B (FIG.2A) of the housing110of the lighting device100. Once the rotatable clip is positioned at a desired location along the length of the housing110, the installer can secure the rotatable clip to the lighting device100using one or more fasteners (e.g., the fasteners188A and188B shown inFIG.6) that engage the first threaded groove116A and second threaded groove116B of the housing110(FIG.6).

Step905of the method900includes connecting the lighting device to a power supply. To do so, the installer can run the power cable190of the lighting device100above the ceiling tiles in the ceiling grid100and connect the power cable to a power supply (e.g., directly or via another feed cable). Step906can also include replacing the removed ceiling tile(s) from step901, as shown inFIG.10D. In some implementations, step906includes forming a notch in the ceiling tile to permit the power cable190to pass through the ceiling grid1000and not be visible or exposed. As shown inFIGS.10C and10D, the lighting device100is substantially flush with the ceiling tile grid1000when installed. More specifically, in the exemplary arrangement shown inFIGS.10C and10D, an upper surface of the first flange126A and an upper surface of the second flange126B (FIGS.2A and2B) of the housing110generally contact surface of the ceiling tile1002A and the ceiling tile1002B so that there is no visible gap between the lighting device100and the ceiling tiles.

Referring toFIG.11, one or more lighting devices forming a plurality of lighting systems are shown coupled to a ceiling tile grid1100, according to some implementations of the present disclosure. The ceiling tile grid1100includes a first plurality of rows of ceiling tile support members1110A-1110G and a second plurality of rows of ceiling tile support members1120A-1120J. In this arrangement, the support members1110A-1110G are perpendicular to the support members1120A-1120J to form the ceiling tile grid1100.

InFIG.11, a first lighting device1130and a second lighting device1132that are the same, as or similar, to the lighting device100are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1100. The first lighting device1130is coupled to ceiling tile support member row1120A (e.g., using a first rotatable clip) and ceiling tile support member row1120B (e.g., using a second rotatable clip) so that the longitudinal axis of the first lighting device1130is generally perpendicular to the ceiling tile support member row1120A and the ceiling tile support member row1120B. This configuration where the longitudinal axis of the first lighting device1130is perpendicular to the ceiling tile support members it is coupled to can be referred to as an off the grid configuration. Generally, in an off the grid configuration, the lighting device intersects at least two ceiling tile support members. The second lighting device1132is coupled is coupled to the ceiling tile support member row1100B (e.g., using two rotatable clips) so that the longitudinal axis of the second lighting device1132is generally parallel with the ceiling tile support member row1100B. This configuration where the second lighting device1132is parallel to or in line with the ceiling tile support member it is coupled to can be referred to as an on the grid configuration.

InFIG.11, a first group of lighting devices1134A-1134D are coupled to the ceiling tile grid and arranged in an off the grid diamond pattern. Each of the lighting devices1134A-1134D have a first mitered end and a second mitered end. In this diamond arrangement, the longitudinal axis of each of the lighting devices1134A-1134D is orientated at an angle relative to the ceiling tile support members to which it is coupled.

InFIG.11, a second group of lighting devices1136A-1136C are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1100in an off the grid x-shaped or cross pattern. Each of the lighting devices1136A-1136C are the same as, or similar to, the lighting device100. A first end of lighting device1136B abuts the lighting device1136A (e.g., approximately at the midpoint of the lighting device1136A). The lighting device1136C likely abuts the lighting device1136A, thereby forming an x-shaped or cross pattern. The longitudinal axes of the lighting devices1136A-1136C are orientated at angle relative to the ceiling tile support members to which they are attached.

Still referring toFIG.11, a third group of lighting devices1138A-1338A are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1110in an off the grid l-shaped pattern. The lighting devices1138A and1138B are the same as, or similar to, the lighting device700and the lighting device800(FIGS.8A and8B) described herein and form a 90-degree angle where a first end of the lighting device1138A abuts a first end of the lighting device1138B. More specifically, the lighting device1138A is coupled to ceiling tile support member row1100F and is orientated so that its longitudinal axis is perpendicular to ceiling tile support member row1100F. The lighting device1138B is coupled ceiling tile support members1120A and1120B and is orientated so that its longitudinal axis is perpendicular to ceiling tile support members1120A and1120B. The lighting device1138C is positioned so that a first end of the lighting device1138C abuts a second end of the lighting device1138B.

Referring toFIG.11, a fourth group of lighting devices1140A and1140B, which are the same as, or similar to, the lighting device100described herein, are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1110in an off the grid t-shaped pattern. The lighting device1140A is coupled to ceiling tile support member row1110F and the lighting device1140B is coupled to ceiling tile support member rows1120F and1120G.

Referring still toFIG.11, a fifth group of lighting devices1142A-1142C are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1110in an arrangement that is partially off the grid and partially on the grid. Specifically, the lighting device1142A is coupled to ceiling tile support member row1100E and the lighting device1142C is coupled to ceiling tile support member row1100F. The lighting device1142B has a first mitered end and a second mitered end that abut respective mitered ends of the lighting device1142A and the lighting device1142C.

Referring toFIG.11, a sixth group of lighting devices1144A-1144D are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1110in an off the grid rectangular arrangement. Each of the lighting devices1144A-1144D has a first mitered end and a second mitered end to form the rectangular arrangement shown inFIG.11. The lighting device1144A and the lighting device1144C are coupled to ceiling tile support member rows1120E,1120F, and1120G, while lighting devices1144B and1144are coupled to ceiling tile support member rows1100B,1100C, and1100D.

Referring toFIG.11, a seventh group of lighting devices1146A-1146D are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1110in an on the grid rectangular arrangement. The seventh group of lighting devices1146A-1146D is the same as, or similar to, the sixth group of lighting devices1144A-1144D described above except that each of the lighting devices1146A-1146D are coupled to only one of the ceiling tile support member rows (in this example, rows1100B,1100D,1120E, and1120G).

Referring toFIG.11, an eight group of lighting devices1148A-1148F are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1110in an off the grid rectangular arrangement. The eighth group is similar to the sixth group of lighting devices1144A-1144D described above except that lighting devices1148A,1148B,1148CD, and1148E each have only one mitered end, while lighting devices1148C and1146F each have two mitered ends.

Referring toFIG.12, one or more lighting devices (e.g., which can be grouped together to form a plurality of lighting systems) are coupled to a ceiling tile grid1200, according to some implementations of the present disclosure. The ceiling tile grid1200is similar to the ceiling tile grid1100(FIG.11), but differs in that ceiling tile support member rows1210A-1210D and1220A-1220B are arranged in a 60-degree pattern to support triangular ceiling tiles (e.g., as opposed to rectangular or square ceiling tiles). In some implementations, a first group of lighting devices1230A-1230C are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1220in an on the grid triangular arrangement, forming a 60-degree triangle. Each of the first group of lighting devices1230A-1230C has a first mitered end having a first angle and a second mitered end having a second angle, where the first angle is substantially equal to the second angle. In some implementations, a second group of lighting devices1240A-1240F are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1220in an on the grid hexagonal arrangement, forming a 60-degree hexagon. Each of the first group of lighting devices1240A-1240F has a first mitered end having a first angle and a second mitered end having a second angle, where the first angle is substantially equal to the second angle.

Referring toFIG.13, one or more lighting devices (e.g., which can be grouped together to form a plurality of lighting systems) are coupled to a ceiling tile grid1300, according to some implementations of the present disclosure. The ceiling tile grid1300is similar to the ceiling tile grid1100(FIG.11), but differs in that ceiling tile support member rows are arranged in a 75-degree pattern to support triangular and parallelogram ceiling tiles (e.g., as opposed to rectangular or square ceiling tiles). In some implementations, a first group of lighting devices1330A-1330C is coupled to the ceiling tile grid1300in an on the grid triangular arrangement, forming a 75-degree triangle. The lighting device1332A has a first mitered end having a first angle and a second mitered end having a second angle, where the first angle is substantially equal to the second angle. The lighting devices1332B and1332C each have a first mitered end having a first angle and a second mitered end having a second angle, where the first angle is different than the second angle. In some implementations, a second group of lighting devices1332A-1332D are coupled to the ceiling tile grid1300in an on the grid parallelogram arrangement, forming a 75-degree right parallelogram. In other implementations, a group of lighting devices that are the same as, or similar to, the second group of lighting devices1332A-1332D can be coupled to the ceiling tile grid1300in an on the grid parallelogram arrangement, forming a 75-degree left parallelogram.

In some implementations, a group of lighting devices that are the same as, or similar to, the second group of lighting devices1332A-1332D can be coupled to a ceiling tile grid where the ceiling tile support member rows are arranged in a 45-degree pattern. In such implementations, the group of lighting devices can be coupled to the ceiling tile grid and arranged in either a 45-degree left parallelogram arrangement or a 45-degree right parallelogram arrangement.

One or more elements or aspects or steps, or any portion(s) thereof, from one or more of any of claims below can be combined with one or more elements or aspects or steps, or any portion(s) thereof, from one or more of any of the other claims below or combinations thereof, to form one or more additional implementations and/or claims of the present disclosure.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to one or more particular embodiments or implementations, those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Each of these implementations and obvious variations thereof is contemplated as falling within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. It is also contemplated that additional implementations according to aspects of the present disclosure may combine any number of features from any of the implementations described herein.