Modular Lighting Apparatus with Cooling Channel

A lighting apparatus comprising: a plurality of housings comprising a first housing having a first wall and a second housing having a second wall; wherein said first wall faces said second wall; at least one lighting unit being provided to the first housing; a spacing means configured for arranging said first wall at a distance of said second wall such that an air flow channel is defined between the first wall and the second wall, a minimum distance between the first wall and the second wall being at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 5 mm, and being larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm, said air flow channel extending in an upward direction between an air entrance and an air exit; wherein said first and second walls are made of a thermally conductive material.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The field of the invention relates to lighting apparatuses, preferably for outdoor lighting or industrial lighting. Particular embodiments relate to a lighting apparatus comprising modules and forming a cooling channel.

BACKGROUND

Despite the progress of technology towards more electricity-efficient lighting solutions, heat is still being generated by power-intensive components of lighting apparatuses. As such, heat management in lighting apparatuses is still a major design point to tackle in order to prevent onboard electronics from overheating, which would in turn cause malfunctions in the lighting apparatuses. Typically, lighting apparatuses are air cooled using air convection. In order to promote heat exchange between the heat generated by the electronics and the surrounding cooler air, heat sinks can be used which try to increase the surface in contact with the coolant to promote heat exchange. Alternatively or additionally, air channels can be used which try to promote air circulation. However, design requirements for these types of solutions are usually quite demanding in terms of space and/or in terms of complexity.

In particular, the design of heat sinks generally foregoes aesthetical considerations, and heat sinks are prone to dirt accumulation within their recesses over time, thereby decreasing their efficiency. On the other hand, the design of air channels generally introduces complex shapes within the housing of the lighting apparatus, thereby increasing production costs. Thus, there is a need for an alternative cooling solutions taking into account the typical problems encountered.

SUMMARY

The object of embodiments of the invention is to provide a lighting apparatus allowing for air cooling of the components contained within the lighting apparatus which keeps its effectivity over time and which presents a simpler design compared to the existing ones.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a lighting apparatus. The lighting apparatus comprises: a plurality of housings, at least one lighting unit, and a spacing means. The plurality of housings comprises a first housing having a first wall and a second housing having a second wall. The first wall faces said second wall. The at least one lighting unit is provided to the first housing, preferably in the first housing. The spacing means is configured for arranging said first wall at a distance of said second wall such that an air flow channel is defined between the first wall and the second wall, a minimum distance between the first wall and the second wall being at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 5 mm, and being larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm. The air flow channel extends in an upward direction between an air entrance and an air exit. The first and second walls are made of a thermally conductive material. Thus, the air flow channel is configured as an air cooling element.

It is to be noted that additional air cooling element may be provided to at least one of the plurality of housings. For example, ventilation slits or aerating vents comprised in a wall of the at least one of the plurality of housings may allow for air to be renewed within said housing and thereby improve dissipation of heat.

In embodiments of the lighting apparatus, the plurality of housings defines different modules of the lighting apparatus. The different modules may be similar or different in terms of dimensions, contained components, and/or composing materials. However, the first wall of the first housing and the second wall of the second housing facing each other are made of a thermally conductive material, preferably metal, more preferably aluminum. In other words, heat generated by electronic components and accumulating within the first housing and the second housing can be transferred out of the first housing and the second housing through the first wall and the second wall, respectively.

Thanks to the air flow channel defined via the spacing means, the heat being transferred in the space between the first wall and the second wall can be evacuated, thusly promoting the cooling of the first housing and the second housing. It is to be noted that the inner arrangement of the electronic components within the first housing and/or the second housing may be organized such that electronic components generating a higher level of heat may be placed closer to a thermally conductive wall neighboring the air flow channel. The dimension of the air flow channel in at least one direction perpendicular to the air flow may be restricted, and the air flow channel extends in an upward direction in order for natural air convection to occur. Such a design increases the efficiency of the air cooling. At the same time, due to the slanted, or vertical, orientation of the air flow channel, dust and water do not accumulate, keeping the effectivity of the air cooling intact as time passes.

The spacing means may comprise one or more spacing elements. Spacing elements may be arranged within the air flow channel between the first wall and the second wall to maintain a predetermined distance between them and/or may be arranged at at least one end of the air flow channel. For example, the one or more spacing elements may comprise a first common end plate arranged at a first end of the first and second housings and a second common end plate arranged at a second end of the first and second housings.

Depending on the profile of the first wall and/or of the second wall, the dimension of the air flow channel in at least one direction perpendicular to the air flow may be constant or may vary. Using the spacing means, the air flow channel is created in a simple manner reducing production costs respective to specifically designed air channels.

Additionally, the one or more spacing elements may comprise one or more adjustable spacing elements. In that way, the minimum distance between the first wall and the second wall may be adapted to the surrounding environment, more particularly depending on temperature and humidity levels of the surrounding environment. Optionally, the first housing and/or the second housing comprises at least one temperature sensor to measure temperature within the respective housing and/or of the ambient temperature outside the respective housing; and the one or more adjustable spacing elements may be controlled through a motorized means comprised by the lighting apparatus so that the air flow channel dimensions are adjusted in function of the temperature(s) measured.

Alternatively, the one or more spacing elements may comprise one or more adjustable spacing elements such as to provide a variety of adjusting options during commissioning and/or assembly of the lighting apparatus. For example, an end plate for closing the first housing and the second housing may comprise a plurality of mounting positions for the first housing and the second housing to provide for different air channel dimensions depending on a desired usage.

The lighting apparatus may be adapted for outdoor lighting or industrial lighting. By outdoor lighting and industrial lighting, it is meant lighting adapted for roads, tunnels, industrial plants, stadiums, airports, harbors, rail stations, campuses, parks, cycle paths, pedestrian paths, or pedestrian zones for example, and industrial and outdoor lighting systems can be used notably for the lighting of an outdoor area, such as roads and residential areas in the public domain, private parking areas and access roads to private building infrastructures, warehouses, industry halls, etc.

According to a preferred embodiment, the second housing accommodates a driving means configured for driving the at least one lighting unit.

In this manner, different heat-generating electronic components are separated in different housings, decreasing the rate at which heat accumulates within individual housings while using a common heat evacuation means, the air flow channel.

It is to be noted that the second housing may also comprise at least one lighting unit. In addition, the driving means may be connected to the at least one lighting unit of the first housing, and optionally to the at least one lighting unit of the second housing, via a connecting line passing through cable glands in the first housing and the second housing such that sealing is maintained at the level of the connecting line. Alternatively, cable passages may be arranged in the end plates, see further.

In an embodiment, a first electronic component, e.g. the at least one lighting unit, generating more heat than a second electronic component, e.g. the driving means, may be located close to a thermally conductive wall neighboring the air flow channel, e.g. the first wall, having a larger surface than another thermally conductive wall, e.g. the second wall, located close to the second electronic component.

According to another aspect, there is provided a modular system. The modular system comprises: a plurality of housings, and a spacing means. The plurality of housings comprises a first housing having a first wall and a second housing having a second wall. The first wall faces said second wall. At least one electronic component is provided to the first housing, preferably in the first housing. At least one another electronic component is provided to the second housing. The spacing means is configured for arranging said first wall at a distance of said second wall such that an air flow channel is defined between the first wall and the second wall, a minimum distance between the first wall and the second wall being at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 5 mm, and being larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm. The air flow channel extends in an upward direction between an air entrance and an air exit. The first and second walls are made of a thermally conductive material. Thus, the air flow channel is configured as an air cooling element.

The at least one and at least one another electronic components may be any kind of components, wherein at least one component thereof generates heat. Thus, the invention can also be used for other components different from a lighting unit and/or a driving means. All embodiments disclosed above for the lighting apparatus also apply to the present modular system, and vice versa. The skilled person will understand that some of the below embodiments are equally applicable to the lighting apparatus and the modular system.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first wall and the second wall are arranged to face each other over an area, A, which is larger than 300 cm2.

In this way, the area A defining facing walls of the air flow channel may be sufficiently large to be configured for cooling below a predetermined temperature the electronic components within the first housing and the second housing.

Additionally or alternatively, the spacing means may be designed such that portions of the air flow channel defined between the first wall and the second wall have different dimensions with respect to each other in order to more efficiently evacuate dust, water, or debris depending on the portion. Also, as seen in a cross-section perpendicular to the length of the first and second wall, the first wall and the second wall may be converging in the first section looking in the downstream direction.

According to a preferred embodiment, the air flow channel has a length, l, and a width, w, perpendicular to the length, said width extending in a flow direction of the air flow channel, said length being longer than said width, wherein preferably said length is between 20 and 120 cm, and wherein preferably said width is between 5 and 30 cm.

In an embodiment, the first and second walls may define the air flow channel over their entire corresponding surfaces and the first wall and the second wall have a length, l, and a width, w, perpendicular to the length, said width extending in a flow direction of the air flow channel, said length being longer than said width. Preferably said length is between 20 and 120 cm, and preferably said width is between 5 and 30 cm.

In this manner, the width of the air flow channel is restricted such that upward circulation of air is kept along a relatively short distance, thereby allowing substantially quick renewal of the air contained within the air flow channel. Additionally, the length of the air flow channel being longer than its width, a substantially large area for heat exchange is created.

In an embodiment, the air flow channel may have a varying width along its length in function of the heat generated by the electronic component directly facing a corresponding portion. That is, a first portion of the thermally conductive wall defining the air flow channel and facing a first electronic component may be designed to delimit the air flow channel over a larger width than a second portion of the thermally conductive wall defining the air flow channel and facing a second electronic component, said first electronic component generating more heat than said second electronic component.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the first wall and the second wall increases in a first section when looking in a downstream direction from the air entrance to the air exit, such that a Venturi effect is created.

In this way, air circulation is promoted, which increases the efficiency of the air cooling by having faster circulation of air. Depending on the profiles of the first wall and the second wall, the distance between the first and second walls in the first section may be increasing linearly or non-linearly. In an embodiment, an outer surface profile of the first wall and/or the second wall over the first section may be straight. In another embodiment, the outer surface profile of the first wall and/or the second wall over the first section may be convex or concave.

Additionally, the first wall and the second wall may be designed in order to take advantage of the Coanda effect which may be used such that dust, debris, and water entering in the air flow channel is evacuated efficiently.

According to a preferred embodiment, the distance between the first and the second walls decreases in a second section when looking in the downstream direction, said second section being upstream of the first section.

In this manner, the Venturi effect and the Coanda effect may be accentuated. In an embodiment, the outer surface profile of the first wall and/or the second wall over the second section may be straight. In another embodiment, the outer surface profile of the first wall and/or the second wall over the second section may be convex or concave. Also, seen in a cross-section perpendicular to the length of the first and the second wall, the outer surface profile of the first wall and/or the second wall may be first converging in the second section and next diverging in the first section, looking in the downstream direction.

According to an exemplary embodiment, a portion of the first wall and/or a portion of the second wall has a convex outer surface as seen in a cross-section along the flow direction.

Preferably, the portion of the first wall has a convex outer surface arranged symmetrically with respect to the portion of the second wall having a convex outer surface as seen in a section along the flow direction, i.e. in a cross-section perpendicular to length of the air flow channel.

In this way, the design complexity of the first housing and/or the second housing is lessened and the modularity can be increased. Indeed, this allows using the same housing for the first and the second housings.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first housing and the second housing each comprises an elongate profile with a length direction extending preferably perpendicular to the flow direction in the air flow channel.

In this manner, the lighting apparatus may be better adapted to be installed as a suspended lighting apparatus. Preferably, in embodiments in which the spacing means comprises a plurality of end plates, the lighting apparatus may be suspended by the end plates.

Preferably the first housing and/or the second housing comprises parts made by extrusion.

In an embodiment, an upper part of the first housing may be made by extrusion, preferably in aluminum, and may be optionally completed by a lower part in a transparent or translucent material allowing light emitted by the at least one lighting unit to pass through; for the second housing, both an upper part and a lower part may be made by extrusion.

Additionally, the spacing means may comprise end plates provided to both extremities of the elongate profiles such as to arrange the first housing at a predetermined distance from the second housing. The first housing and the second housing may be similar in shapes or different.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first wall and the second wall are an elongate first side wall of the first housing and an elongate second side wall of the second housing, respectively.

In this way, the first housing and the second housing may be placed substantially parallel to each other. In an embodiment, both the first housing and the second housing may have the same length.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first housing and the second housing each comprises an extruded profile.

In this manner, production costs can be decreased.

In alternative embodiments, the first housing and/our the second housing may be made by die-casting or by folding sheet metal.

Preferably, the first housing and the second housing each comprises a substantially V-shaped or an arc-shaped extruded profile. When installing the lighting apparatus, the first housing and/or the second housing may be arranged such as to have the narrow end of its extruded profile pointing upward; thus, dirt, debris, or water can more easily be evacuated by gravity.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first and the second housings comprise each at least one extruded profile having a similar shape, preferably being identical.

In this way, the modularity of the lighting apparatus may be improved and the overall design made simpler. The plurality of housings may be used individually and may be arranged with similar or different orientations. Housings with a similar shape may have similar or different functionalities and may be made out of similar or different materials.

It is to be noted that, even in the case of a plurality of housings arranged with similar orientations, lighting units with different orientations may be provided to each of the plurality of housings.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first housing comprises a first substantially V-shaped profile and the second housing comprises a second substantially V-shaped profile, and the second profile is oriented such as to have a corner pointing upwards and the first profile is oriented such as to have a corner pointing upward.

In this manner, evacuation of dirt, water, and debris is facilitated by the first housing and by the second housing. Indeed, presenting a corner upwardly, both the first housing and the second housing present faces exposed to dirt, water, and debris at an angle easing the work of gravity, in opposition to a face oriented horizontally for example. Also, due to the substantially V-shape of the first profile and of the substantially V-shape of the second profile, the air flow channel can easily be formed using the first and the second profiles oriented in different directions.

In an embodiment, both the first housing and the second housing may comprise similarly shaped V-shaped profiles. For the second housing, two V-shaped profiles may be arranged with their open end facing each other to form an enclosure, each of the substantially V-shaped profiles defining half of the second housing, thereby forming a substantially lozenge-shaped housing. The first housing may comprise a single substantially V-shaped profile, optionally closed by a cover, e.g. a transparent or translucent cover.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the spacing means comprises an end plate, wherein the end plate is configured for being fixed to an end of the first housing and an end of the second housing.

In a preferential embodiment, the first housing and the second housing each comprises an elongate profile with a length direction extending preferably perpendicular to the flow direction in the air flow channel in a plane substantially parallel to the first wall and/or the second wall, and the end plate closes an end of the first housing and/or an end of the second housing, preferably both ends of the first housing and the second housing.

In this way, the end plate can serve the double duty of maintaining a predetermined distance between the first housing and the second housing, as well as closing, at least partially, the extremities of the first and/or second housings. The overall design is simplified by the use of multipurpose parts. In an embodiment, the spacing means may also comprise additional elements provided within the air flow channel, between the first wall and the second wall.

According to a preferred embodiment, the end plate comprises at least one passage configured for receiving an electrical power cabling.

In an embodiment, the at least one passage may also be provided with a cable gland surrounding the electrical power cabling to maintain the sealing at the level of the passage.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the lighting apparatus further comprises:a third housing comprising a third wall;the second housing comprising another second wall, said another second wall facing the third wall;at least one electronic component, preferably another lighting unit, being provided to the third housing, preferably in the third housing;wherein the spacing means is further configured for arranging said another second wall at a distance of the third wall such that another air flow channel is defined between the another second wall and the third wall, a minimum distance between the another second wall and the third wall being at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 5 mm, and being larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm, said another air flow channel extending in an upward direction between an air entrance and an air exit;wherein said another second and third walls are made of a thermally conductive material.

The another air flow channel is configured as another air cooling element.

In this manner, the lighting apparatus is easily scalable while still providing for additional cooling means. In an embodiment, a driving means may be provided to the second housing and may be configured for driving the at least one lighting unit of the first housing, and optionally the at least one electronic component, preferably the another lighting unit, of the third housing.

Depending on embodiments, the at least one electronic component comprises one or more among the following;a camera unit;a laser device;a radar device;a microphone;a movement detector;a light emitting device such as an ultraviolet (UV) light or an infrared (IR) light or a light for light fidelity (Li-Fi) communication;a panic button;a pollution sensor;a visibility sensor;a sound sensor;a temperature sensor;a spraying/sanitizing device;power management circuitry;telecommunication circuitry, such as base station circuitry;audio system management circuitry;a display;an antenna;WiFi circuitry, wherein an antenna for receiving WiFi signals may be integrated either in the third housing or in a separate antenna module;charger circuitry, e.g. phone charger circuitry or vehicle charger circuitry;an environmental sensor such as a microphone, or a detector of CO2, NOx, smoke, etc., and the associated circuitry;a human interface device (HID) and the associated circuitry, e.g. a camera, a loudspeaker, a button, a touch screen, etc.repeater circuitry, e.g. a WiFi repeater;a sign, such as a publicity banner;a water discharge device, such as a shower head, a sprinkler, a water sprayer, etc;a trash bin;a socket, such as an electrical socket.

It is to be noted that the plurality of housings is not limited to comprise only a first housing, a second housing, and a third housing, but may also include even more housings. The skilled person will understand that the spacing means may be configured in consequence to arrange the plurality of housings with respect to each other such that additional air flow channels are defined. The additional air flow channels may have the same or different dimensions.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first, second and third housings each comprises an elongate profile with a length direction extending preferably perpendicular to the flow direction in the air flow channel in a plane substantially parallel to the first wall, the second wall, the another second wall, and/or the third wall.

In this way, the lighting apparatus can easily be augmented using additional housings in a transversal direction perpendicular to the length direction.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first, second, another second, and third walls are an elongate first side wall of the first housing, a first and second elongate second side walls of the second housing, and an elongate first side wall of the third housing, respectively.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first housing and the third housing are arranged along a first arrangement level, and the second housing is arranged along a second arrangement level above the first arrangement level as seen in a plane perpendicular to the length direction.

Preferably, the second housing is shaped, and especially the second wall with respect to the another second wall, such as to be substantially complementary to the space defined by the first wall of the first housing and the third wall of the third housing.

By arrangement level, it is meant a horizontal virtual line passing through a geometric center of the housing it is associated with, as seen in the plane perpendicular to the length direction. So, the first housing and the third housing are substantially aligned on a first horizontal line representing the first arrangement level while the second housing is arranged higher vertically in the lighting apparatus such that its geometric center is above this first horizontal line, on a second horizontal line representing the second arrangement level.

In this manner, longer air flow channels may be defined using a multi-levelled arrangement to improve a cooling efficiency of the air cooling elements thusly formed, and the lighting apparatus can be made modular in both vertical and transversal directions.

The skilled person will understand that the lighting apparatus may be formed by housings arranged along more than two levels while still allowing air flow channels to be defined by the spaces left between the different housings.

According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one lighting unit comprises a first lighting unit provided to the first housing and a second lighting unit provided to the third housing. Also, the second housing accommodates the driving means configured for driving the at least one lighting unit.

In this way, the housings of the lighting apparatus arranged along the first level and facing a surface to be illuminated are used in lighting functions, while other housings arranged on higher levels are used for functions other than lighting functions.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of housings comprises at least five housings arranged to define four air flow channels, or even seven housings arranged to define six air flow channels. In another embodiment, the plurality of housings comprises at least four housings arranged to define two air flow channels.

According to a preferred embodiment, the lighting apparatus is configured to be suspended.

For example, the spacing means may comprise end plates fixed at the extremities of the first and second housings and the lighting apparatus may be suspended by the end plates.

In this manner, a space may be maintained between the air exit and a point from which the lighting apparatus is suspended, allowing heated air from the air flow channel to mix with ambient cooler air.

In an alternative embodiment, the lighting apparatus may be integrated in a casing of the ceiling, and the casing is configured to allow air ventilation for heated air evacuated from the air flow channel to dissipate.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the at least one lighting unit is an LED lighting unit.

In this way, one can obtain light emitted from the at least one lighting unit with a high intensity, suitable for providing a desired visibility level in a given environment, for example in a large hall, while having a substantially low power consumption. In an embodiment, there may be a plurality of LEDs per lighting unit.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first housing comprises a transparent or translucent lower cover, and the LED lighting unit is arranged within the first housing to face the transparent or translucent lower cover.

In this manner, the LED lighting unit may be protected within the enclosure of the first housing, the transparent or translucent lower cover corresponding to a lower part of the first housing.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the at least one lighting unit is provided with a thermal dissipation means within the first housing.

The thermal dissipation means may comprise a heat sink. In this way, cooling of the at least one lighting unit may be achieved more directly and in a targeted manner.

Preferably, the lighting unit comprises a support carrying a plurality of LEDs, wherein the support is arranged parallel to the transparent or translucent lower cover.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a modular lighting apparatus. The modular lighting apparatus comprises at least a first, a second, a third and a fourth substantially V-shaped elongate profiles. At least one of the first and the second V-shaped elongate profiles, preferably both, houses a light source, and optionally a transparent or translucent cover closes the V-shaped profile. The third and fourth V-shaped elongate profiles are combined with their open sides facing each other so as to form a housing for one or more other components, such as a driving means of the light source. In a mounted state, the first and the second elongate profiles are arranged parallel to each other with their open side oriented downward, and the combination of the third and the fourth elongate profiles is arranged in between the first and the second elongate profiles with the open side of the third elongate profile oriented upward, such that a first wall of the third elongate profile faces a second wall of the first elongate profile and such that a second wall of the third elongate profile faces a first wall of the second elongate profile. The first wall of the third elongate profile and the facing second wall of the first elongate profile define a first air flow channel configured as a first air cooling element. The second wall of the third elongate profile and the facing first wall of the second elongate profile define a second air flow channel configured as a second air cooling element.

According to a preferred embodiment, the first, second, third, and fourth elongate profiles have similar shapes, preferably identical shapes. These elongate profiles may be made by extrusion, preferably in metal, more preferably in aluminum.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the modular lighting apparatus comprises a spacing means configured for arranging the first wall of the third elongate profile at a first distance of the second wall of the first elongate profile, and for arranging the second wall of the third elongate profile at a second distance of the first wall of the second elongate profile, such as to define a first air flow channel and a second air flow channel, respectively. Preferably, each of the first distance and the second distance is at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 5 mm, and is larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm. Preferably, each of the first air flow channel and the second air flow channel extends in an upward direction between an air entrance and an air exit. The air entrance of the first air flow channel may correspond to the air entrance of the second air flow channel. The first and second walls of the third elongate profile, at least the first wall of the second elongate profile, and at least the second wall of the first elongate profile are made of a thermally conductive material. Preferably, the entire first, second, and third elongate profiles are made of a thermally conductive material.

In an embodiment, the spacing means comprises a first end plate and a second end plate. The first end plate is configured for being fixed to first extremities of the first, second, third, and fourth elongate profiles. The second end plate is configured for being fixed to other opposite extremities of the first, second, third, and fourth elongate profiles.

According to a preferred embodiment, the modular lighting apparatus further comprises a fifth and a sixth substantially V-shaped elongate profile. The fifth and the sixth elongate profiles are arranged next to the first and the second elongate profiles, respectively. Preferably the fifth and the sixth elongate profiles each comprises at least one light source.

Additionally, the first end plate and the second end plate may be configured for also being fixed to both extremities, respectively, of the fifth and sixth elongate profiles. The first and second end plate may be configured for fixing each of the fifth and sixth elongate profiles in a plurality of orientations as seen in a cross-section of the elongate profiles, such that light emitted by the at least one light source of the fifth and/or sixth elongate profile is oriented towards a desired direction, e.g. downward, or preferably upward to further allow up-light.

Optionally, the first and the second end plates may be completed with an end housing, preferably and end housing extending along the first extremities of all elongates profiles, such end housing may accommodate one or more cables and/or one or more additional components such as sensors.

According to a fourth aspect, there is provided a suspended modular lighting apparatus. The suspended modular lighting comprises at least two, preferably at least three, substantially V-shaped elongate profiles arranged parallel to each other between two end plates. Each substantially V-shaped elongate profile accommodates a light source. A first profile of said at least two elongate profiles is rotated with respect to a second profile of said at least two elongate profiles such that an orientation of a light beam emitted by the light source accommodated in the first profile is different from an orientation of a light beam emitted by the light source accommodated in the second profile. In an embodiment, the first profile is oriented such that its light source emits light substantially downwardly while the second profile is oriented oppositely of the first profile such that its light source emits light substantially upwardly.

Features of the different aspects and preferred features discussed above may be combined in any possible way.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

FIGS.1A-1Bshow schematically a perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus and a close-up view of an air flow channel, respectively, according to the present invention. The lighting apparatus100may be adapted for outdoor lighting or industrial lighting. By outdoor lighting and industrial lighting, it is meant lighting adapted for roads, tunnels, industrial plants, stadiums, airports, harbors, rail stations, campuses, parks, cycle paths, pedestrian paths, or pedestrian zones for example, and industrial and outdoor lighting systems can be used notably for the lighting of an outdoor area, such as roads and residential areas in the public domain, private parking areas and access roads to private building infrastructures, warehouses, industry halls, etc.

The lighting apparatus100comprises: a plurality of housings10,20, at least one lighting unit11, and a spacing means30. The plurality of housings comprises a first housing10having a first wall12and a second housing20having a second wall22. The first wall12faces said second wall12.

The plurality of housings10,20may define different modules of the lighting apparatus100. The different modules may be similar or different in terms of dimensions, contained components, and/or composing materials. In the embodiment ofFIG.1A, the first housing10and the second housing20are different and have different dimensions. The first wall12and the second wall12are made of a thermally conductive material, preferably metal, more preferably aluminum.

The spacing means30is configured for arranging said first wall12at a distance of said second wall22such that an air flow channel40is defined between the first wall12and the second wall22. The air flow channel40is configured as an air cooling element for the lighting apparatus100. Preferably, a minimum distance between the first wall12and the second wall22is at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 5 mm, and is larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm. The air flow channel40extends in an upward direction between an air entrance41and an air exit42. In the embodiment ofFIG.1A, the spacing means30comprises one or more spacing elements, more particularly a pair of spacing elements31at each end of the second housing20. The spacing elements31are arranged within the air flow channel30between the first wall12and the second wall22to maintain a predetermined distance between them.

Depending on an outer surface profile of the first wall12and/or of the second wall22, the dimension of the air flow channel40in at least one direction perpendicular to the air flow may be constant or may vary. A portion of the first wall12and the second wall22delimiting the air flow channel40may be defined by a length, l, and a width, w, perpendicular to the length, said width extending in a flow direction, Ax, of the air flow channel40, said length being longer than said width. Preferably said length1is between 20 and 120 cm, and preferably said width w is between 5 and 30 cm. The first wall12and the second wall22may be arranged to face each other over an area, A (A=1*w), which is larger than 300 cm2.

In the embodiment ofFIGS.1A-1B, the cross-sections of the air flow channel40along its length have constant dimensions, and the cross-sections of the air flow channel40along its width have varying dimensions between the air entrance41and the air exit42. More particularly, as can be seen inFIG.1B, the distance between the first wall12and the second wall22increases over a first section40awhen looking in a downstream direction such that a Venturi effect is created. Also, the distance between the first wall12and the second wall22decreases over a second section40aupstream of the first section when looking in a downstream direction. The outer surface profile of the first wall12is convex, while the outer surface profile of the second wall is straight. Depending on embodiments, the outer surface profile of the first wall and/or the second wall may be straight, convex or concave.

In an embodiment, portions of the thermally conductive wall12,22defining the air flow channel40may have varying areas in function of the heat generated by the electronic component11,21directly facing a corresponding portion. That is, a first portion of the thermally conductive wall defining the air flow channel40and facing a first electronic component may be designed to have a larger effective heat dissipating area, e.g. by having a patterned outer surface with ridges or embossed, than a second portion of the thermally conductive wall defining the air flow channel40and facing a second electronic component, said first electronic component generating more heat than said second electronic component. Additionally or alternatively, the spacing means30may be designed such that portions of the air flow channel40between the first wall and the second wall have different dimensions in order to more efficiently evacuate dust, water, or debris dependent on the portion.

The first housing10and the second housing20each comprises an elongate profile with a length direction extending preferably perpendicular to the flow direction in the air flow channel40in a plane substantially parallel to the first wall12and/or the second wall22. So, the first wall12and the second wall22are an elongate first side wall of the first housing10and an elongate second side wall of the second housing20, respectively. Both the first housing10and the second housing20ofFIG.1Ahave a four-sided cross-section. The first housing10is longer than the second housing20in the embodiment ofFIG.1A. In another embodiment, the first housing10may have the same length as the second housing20. Additionally, the first housing10and the second housing20may have the same cross-sections.

The at least one lighting unit11is provided to the first housing10; the first housing10may be provided with an opening on its lower face, said opening configured for arranging the at least one lighting unit11within. The at least one lighting unit11may be an LED lighting unit. The at least one lighting unit11may also be provided with a thermal dissipation means within the first housing10, a heat sink15on top of the at least one lighting unit11in the embodiment ofFIG.1A. The second housing20accommodates a driving means21configured for driving the at least one lighting unit11. The driving means21may be connected to the at least one lighting unit11via a connecting line (not shown) passing through cable glands in the first housing10and in the second housing20such that sealing is maintained at the level of the connecting line. The first housing10ofFIG.1Amay be made entirely of a thermally conductive material. In another embodiment, only the first wall12is made of a thermally conductive material. The second housing20ofFIG.1Acompletely encloses the driving means21and may be made entirely of a thermally conductive material. In another embodiment, only the second wall22is made of a thermally conductive material.

It is to be noted that first housing10and/or the second housing20may be provided with other electronic components. The inner arrangement of the electronic components within the first housing10and/or the second housing20may be organized such that electronic components generating a higher level of heat may be placed closer to a thermally conductive wall neighboring the air flow channel40.

The lighting apparatus100may be adapted to be installed as a suspended lighting apparatus. In the embodiment ofFIG.1A, a suspension means is provided to two points of the first housing10.

FIGS.2A-2Dillustrate cross-sectional views of exemplary embodiments of lighting apparatuses according to the present invention.

The first housing10and the second housing20in the embodiments ofFIGS.2A-2Dmay each comprise an extruded profile in a thermally conductive material, preferably metal, more preferably aluminum. For the sake of simplicity, the spacing means is not illustrated.

In the embodiment ofFIG.2A, the first housing10and the second housing20have each an arc-shaped profile closed by a flat wall. The first housing10comprises a first wall12facing a second wall12of the second housing20. The flat wall of the first housing10makes the first wall12. The flat wall of the second housing20makes the second wall12. The second housing20is arranged such as to have its narrow end of the arc pointing upward. The first housing10is arranged such as to have its narrow end of the arc pointing downward. The first wall12and the second wall22define an air flow channel40extending upward at an angle between an air entrance41and an air exit42. The air flow channel40is configured as an air cooling element. A distance between the first wall12and the second wall22increases from a minimum distance d when looking in a downstream direction from the air entrance41to the air exit42such that a Venturi effect is created. At least one lighting unit11is provided to the first housing10. The at least one lighting unit11may be arranged within a recess of the first housing10. A transparent or translucent cover (not shown), defining a lower part of the first housing10, may be provided over the recess such as to protect the at least one lighting unit11. A driving means21configured for driving the at least one lighting unit11is provided to the second housing20.

In the embodiment ofFIG.2B, the first housing10comprises a housing part having a substantially V-shaped profile with an open end. The second housing20comprises two housing parts having a substantially V-shaped profile with an open end. The two housing parts used for the second housing20may be similar to the one used for the first housing10. The first housing10is provided with at least one lighting unit11and may be completed by a lower part in a transparent or translucent material allowing light emitted by the at least one lighting unit11to pass through. The two housing parts of the second housing20are arranged such that their respective open ends correspond. A sealing gasket may be provided between the two housing parts of the second housing20. A driving means21configured for driving the at least one lighting unit11is provided to the second housing20. The first housing10is oriented such that the narrow end of the substantially V-shaped profile is upward. The second housing20is oriented to also have a narrow end of a substantially V-shaped profile pointing upward. The substantially V-shaped profile of the housing parts may be made in a thermally conductive material. The walls of the first housing10and the second housing20facing each other are a first wall12of the first housing and a second wall22of the second housing defining an air flow channel40between them. The first housing10and the second housing20may be arranged such that a minimum distance d between the first wall12and the second wall22is constant when looking in a downstream direction from an air entrance41to an air exit42. The lighting apparatus100ofFIG.2Bis provided to a recess51in a ceiling50. The recess51in the ceiling is closed by a venting plate52surrounding the lighting apparatus, thereby allowing ambient air to circulate to and from the recess51. The air flow channel40is slanted with an air entrance41outside the recess51and an air exit42within the recess51.

In the embodiment ofFIG.2C, the first housing10and the second housing20have each a four-sided cross-section. The cross-section of the first housing10is larger than the cross-section of the second housing20. At least one lighting unit11is provided to the first housing10. A driving means21configured for driving the at least one lighting unit11is provided to the second housing20. The first housing11comprises a first wall12facing a second wall22of the second housing. The first wall12and the second wall22have each a convex outer surface profile defining an air flow channel40a,40b. The air flow channel40a,40bcan thus be separated in a first section40aand a second section40b, said first section40abeing downstream with respect to a point of the air flow channel where a distance d is at its minimum, and said second section40bbeing upstream with respect to the point of the air flow channel wherein the distance d is at its minimum. In the first section40a, the distance between the first wall12and the second wall22increases when looking in a downstream direction from an air entrance41to an air exit42. In the second section40b, the distance between the first wall12and the second wall22decreases when looking in a downstream direction from the air entrance41to the air exit42. The air flow channel40a,40bis oriented substantially vertically.

In the embodiment ofFIG.2D, the first housing10and the second housing20have each an octagonal cross-section of similar dimensions. Each of the first housing10and the second housing20is provided with at least one lighting unit11,21′ and a driving means11′,21, respectively. The first housing10comprises a first wall12a, second wall12b, and third wall12c, facing a fourth wall22a, a fifth wall22b, and a sixth wall22c, respectively, of the second housing20. The first to sixth wall12a-12c,22a-22cdefine an air flow channel40oriented substantially vertically having a first, a second, and a third section40a,40b,40c. A minimum distance d between the second wall12band the fifth wall22bin the second section40bis constant when looking in a downstream direction from an air entrance41to an air exit42. The first section40aand the third section40cdefine funnels oriented in opposite directions such that a Venturi effect is created within the air flow channel40The main lighting directions of the at least one lighting unit11,21′ of the first housing and the second housing may be symmetrical with respect to the air flow channel40.FIGS.3A-3Cshow a cross-sectional view of another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention, as well as close-up alternative cross-sectional views, respectively. The lighting apparatus300comprises a plurality of housings310,310′,320,330. The plurality of housings310,310′,320,330may comprise a plurality of lighting housings310,310′ a plurality of functional housings320, and a dummy housing330.

Each of the plurality of lighting housings310,310′ may be provided with at least one lighting unit311as well as a heat sink315arranged on top of the at least one lighting unit311. Each of the plurality of functional housings320may be provided with a functional electronic component, e.g. a driving means321. For example, each of the plurality of functional housings320may be provided with a driving means321configured for driving a plurality of lighting units. The dummy housing330may be an empty housing. Alternative embodiments of the dummy housing330are described with respect toFIGS.3B and3C.

In the embodiment ofFIG.3A, the plurality of housings310,310′,320,330may comprise one or more substantially V-shaped elongated profiles made by extrusion. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may be made in a thermally-conductive material, preferably metal, more preferably aluminum. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may have an open end.

In the case of the plurality of lighting housings310,310′, the open end may be closed by a lower part313made in a translucent or transparent material to allow light emission from the at least one lighting unit311provided therein. In the case of the plurality of functional housings320and the dummy housing330, two substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may be arranged such that their respective open ends correspond, each of the two substantially V-shaped elongated profiles composing half of the housing. A sealing gasket may be provided between the two substantially V-shaped elongated profiles of the housing320,330.

The plurality of lighting housings310,310′ comprises a plurality of central lighting housings310and a plurality of extremity lighting housings310′. Each of the plurality of central lighting housings310is oriented such that a lighting direction of the at least one lighting unit311is substantially vertical. A narrow end of the substantially V-shaped elongated profile of each of the plurality of central lighting housings310is oriented upward. In the embodiment ofFIG.3A, the plurality of lighting housings310,310′ comprises four central lighting housings310and two extremity lighting housings310′. The four central lighting housings310are arranged next to each other. Each of the two extremity lighting housings310′ is oriented away from the plurality of central lighting housings310, one at each opposite extremity of the neighboring central lighting housings310.

The plurality of functional housings320and the dummy housing330are oriented similarly. The housings320,330are oriented such that a narrow-end of a V-shaped elongated profile comprised in each of the housings320,330is upside-down relative to the V-shaped profiles of the plurality of lighting housings310,310′. Each of the plurality of central lighting housings310comprises at least one first wall312facing at least one second wall of each of the plurality of functional housings320and the dummy housing330.

A spacing means (not shown) is configured for arranging each of the plurality of first walls312at a distance of each of the plurality of second walls322such that a plurality of air flow channels340is defined between the plurality of first walls312and the plurality of second walls322, a minimum distance between each of the plurality of first walls312and each of the plurality of second walls322being at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 0.5 cm, and being larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm. Each of the plurality of air flow channels340extends in an upward direction between an air entrance341and an air exit342, and is configured as an air cooling element. In the embodiment ofFIG.3A, each of the plurality of first walls312and each of the plurality of second walls322is straight. The distance between each of the plurality of first walls312and the plurality of second walls322is constant when looking in a downstream direction from the air entrance341to the air exit342.

The spacing means ofFIG.3Amay comprise a first end plate and a second end plate. Each of the first end plate and the second end plate may be fixed at each of opposite extremities, respectively, of the plurality of housings310,310′,320,330. Optionally, the first and second end plates are configured for fixing each of the extremity lighting housings310′ in a plurality of orientations as seen in a cross-section of the elongate profiles, such that light emitted by the light sources344of the extremity lighting housings310′ are each oriented towards a desired direction. For example, in the embodiment ofFIG.3A, the extremity lighting housing310′ on the right is oriented at a larger angle relative to a horizontal line than the extremity lighting housing310′ on the left.

The lighting apparatus300may be configured for being suspended. With the spacing means holding the plurality of housings310,310′,320,330together, the lighting apparatus300may be suspended with suspending means connected at different points of the plurality of functional housings320.

FIG.3Bshows an alternative close-up cross-sectional view of the dummy housing330ofFIG.3Aaccording to the present invention. In the embodiment ofFIG.3B, the dummy housing330ofFIG.3Ais replaced by an upward lighting housing330′. Neighboring central lighting housings310ofFIG.3Bare similar to the central lighting housings310ofFIG.3A. The upward lighting housing330′ is similar to the central lighting housings310ofFIG.3Aapart that it is oriented upwardly. The skilled person will understand that the implementation of the upward lighting housing330′ is not limited only to the embodiment ofFIG.3Band that it can be adapted to other embodiments according to the invention.

FIG.3Cshows another alternative close-up cross-sectional view of the dummy housing330ofFIG.3Aaccording to the present invention. In the embodiment ofFIG.3C, the dummy housing330ofFIG.3Ais replaced by a trunking housing330a″,330b″. Neighboring central lighting housings310ofFIG.3Care similar to the central lighting housings310ofFIG.3A. The trunking housing330a″,330b″ comprises a lower housing part330a″ and an upper housing330b″. The lower housing part330a″ is similar to the lower housing part of the dummy housing330ofFIG.3A. The upper housing330b″ ofFIG.3Ccomprises an upper housing part and an upper portion of a lower housing part according to the embodiments described in patent application NL2024250. The skilled person will understand that the implementation of the trunking housing330a″,330b″ is not limited only to the embodiment ofFIG.3Cand that it can be adapted to other embodiments according to the invention.

The lighting apparatus implemented with the trunking housing330a″,330b″ ofFIG.3Cmay be used in a lamp trunking system. The lamp trunking system may comprises a plurality of elongate units, each of the plurality of elongate units comprising the trunking housing330a″,330b″ ofFIG.3Cand configured for being mechanically and electrically interconnected to one another via at least one of their respective extremities. In the embodiment ofFIG.3C, the upper housing330b″ comprises an upper housing part331″ and an upper portion335″ of a lower housing part, the upper portion335″ being completed by the lower housing part330a″. The upper portion335″ comprises therein a plurality of electrical wirings running along its length. The upper housing part331″ may be mountable on the upper portion335″. The upper housing part331″ may be glued, screwed, bolted, and/or mechanically engaged with the upper portion335″.

In the embodiment ofFIG.3C, the top of the upper portion335″ comprises a pair of outward protrusions336″. The bottom of the upper housing part331″ comprises a pair of guiding surfaces332″ along its length. In the embodiments ofFIG.3C, the pair of guiding surfaces332″ is extending inwardly and upwardly. The pair of guiding surfaces332″ may be configured for being mountable to the pair of elongate outward protrusions336″, e.g. by sliding and guiding, snap-fitting. The pair of elongate outward protrusions336″ may define a substantially downward-facing groove within which the pair of guiding surfaces332″ will be lodged when mounted. By mounting the upper housing part331″ along the length of the upper portion335″, such that the pair of guiding surfaces332″ is lodged behind the pair of elongate outward protrusions336″, the upper portion335″ and the upper housing part331″ can be mechanically engaged. Usually, the pair of elongate outward protrusions336″ has a maximum width, as measured across the section of the upper portion335″, lower than 0.5 cm.

The upper housing part331″ may delimit one or more separate compartment distinct from a compartment delimited by the upper portion335″ and the lower housing part330a″, a central compartment and two side compartments in the embodiment ofFIG.3C. The top surface of the upper housing part331″ is substantially V-shaped. The bottom of the upper housing part331″ may comprise a pair of elongate outward protruding portions forming the pair of sliding surfaces333a″. The pair of sliding surfaces333a″ are configured for cooperating with a pair of supporting sliding elements such that the elongate unit temporarily arranged on the pair of supporting sliding element can be slid along its length. The width of each of the pair of sliding surfaced333a″, as measured across its cross-section, is higher than 0.5 cm, preferably higher than 1 cm. The pair of elongate outward protruding portions may further comprise a pair of elongate downward protrusions333b″ forming a drop-edge of the pair of sliding surfaces333a″. The pair of elongate downward protrusions333b″ is located along the length of the elongate unit outer surface. The pair of drop-edges333b″ may prevent accumulation of dirt and create a safe dripping point for falling water droplets. It can also result in a better guidance of the pair of supporting sliding elements cooperating with the pair of sliding surfaces333a″. The pair of elongate outward protruding portions may further be configured for cooperating with a retaining means of a suspension means. Indeed the elongate unit may be suspended from an external support via a plurality of suspension means. The suspension mean may comprise the retaining means, a support fixation means, and a connecting means connecting the support fixation means to the retaining means.

FIGS.4A-4Cdepict a side-view, a cross-sectional view, and an exploded perspective view, respectively, of yet another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention. The lighting apparatus400comprises a plurality of housings410,420. The plurality of housings410,420inFIGS.4A-4Ccomprises two lighting housings410with at least one lighting unit411each as well as a heat sink415provided to it, and one functional housing420with a driving means421configured for driving both of the at least one lighting unit411. The two lighting housings410and the functional housing420are similar to the corresponding housings described with respect toFIG.3Aaside from the shape of their outer surfaces. Each outer surface of the V-shaped elongated profiles has a symmetrical convex surface when looking in a downstream direction from an air entrance441to an air exit442of the plurality of air flow channels440, as depicted in the exemplary embodiment ofFIG.4B.

A spacing means430inFIG.4AandFIG.4Ccomprises a first end plate431and a second end plate435(shown inFIG.4C) opposite thereof. The spacing means430is configured for arranging each of the plurality of first walls412at a distance of each of the plurality of second walls422such that a plurality of air flow channels440is defined between the plurality of first walls412and the plurality of second walls422, a minimum distance between each of the plurality of first walls412and each of the plurality of second walls422being at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 0.5 cm, and being larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm. Each of the first end plate431and the second end plate may be fixed at each end of the plurality of housings410,420. Each of the plurality of air flow channels440extends in an upward direction between the air entrance441and the air exit442, and is configured as an air cooling element. The air entrance441inFIG.4Bis common to the plurality of air flow channels440. The first end plate431comprises at least one passage432configured for receiving an electrical power cabling. Additionally, the at least one passage may also be provided with a cable gland surrounding the electrical power cabling to maintain the sealing at the level of the passage. The separation between each of the plurality of first walls412and the plurality of second walls422is constant across a length of the air flow channels440.

FIG.4Aalso depicts a top view of a functional module for a lighting apparatus according to the invention. The functional module460ofFIG.4Acomprises a front plate462and a back plate461. The front plate462and the back plate461may have a similar shape as the first end plate431and the second end plate435of the lighting apparatus such that, when the front plate462of the functional module is fixed to the first end plate431of the lighting apparatus, the profile of the lighting apparatus400is prolonged. The functional module460may comprise a twist-lock socket463, e.g. NEMA, Zhaga, a sensing means464, a signaling means465, a communication means, and/or a controlling means466. The functional module460may comprise a housing wall, e.g. back plate461, made of a RF-transparent material, e.g. plastic. The functional module460may be powered in a similar manner as the lighting apparatus400and the electrical power cabling passing through the passage432of the first end plate431may pass through a corresponding passage432′ of the back plate similarly equipped with a cable gland for sealing purposes.

FIG.5shows schematically a perspective view of still another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention. The lighting apparatus500comprises: a plurality of housings510,520,525, at least one lighting unit511, and a spacing means (not shown). The plurality of housings510,520,525ofFIG.5comprises a first elongate housing510having a first wall512a,512b, a second elongate housing520having a second wall522, and a third elongate housing525having a third wall527. A first portion512aof the first wall faces said second wall522and a second portion512bof the first wall faces said third wall527. The first housing510is provided with the at least one lighting unit511. The second housing520is provided with a driving means (not shown) configured for driving the at least one lighting unit511.

The first wall512a,512b, second wall522, and third wall527are made of a thermally conductive material. In the embodiment ofFIG.5, the outer surface profile of the first wall512a,512bis convex; the outer surface profile of the second wall522is convex; and the outer surface profile of the third wall527is straight. Additionally, air flow channels may be defined by a length and a width. In the case of the second air flow channel545, the second portion512bof the first wall and the third wall527have a length l2and a width w2, said width extending in a second flow direction Ax2of the second air flow channel545, said length l2being longer than said width w2. Preferably, said length l2is between 20 and 120 cm, and preferably said width w2is between 5 and 30 cm.

A spacing means (not shown) is configured for arranging said first wall512a,512bat a distance of said second wall522, and at a distance of said third wall527. The spacing means ofFIG.5comprises end plates fixed respectively to extremities of the first housing510and the second housing520, and extremities of the first housing510and the third housing530. The spacing means ofFIG.5also comprises additional spacing elements between the first portion512aof the first wall and the second wall522, and between the second portion512bof the first wall and the third wall527.

A first air flow channel540is defined between the first portion512aof the first wall and the second wall522. The first air flow channel540extends upwardly, at an angle inFIG.5, between a first air entrance541and a first air exit542, and is configured as a first air cooling element. A second air flow channel545is defined between the second portion512bof the first wall and the third wall527. The second air flow channel545extends upwardly, at an angle inFIG.5, between a second air entrance546and a second air exit547, and is configured as a second air cooling element. The first air flow channel540extends along a first flow direction Ax1and the second air flow channel545extends along the second flow direction Ax2. The first flow direction Ax1and the second flow direction Ax2may be the same or different. Both the first air flow channel540and the second air flow channel545may be designed in order to take advantage of the Venturi effect.

A minimum distance d1between the first portion512aof the first wall and the second wall522is at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 5 mm, and is larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm. A minimum distance d2between the second portion512bof the first wall and the third wall527is at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 5 mm, and is larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm. Minimum distances d1and d2may be the same or different. These differences may be due to different requirements in the cooling required for electronic components provided to the second housing520or the third housing525, different materials composing the second housing520or the third housing525, and/or different profiles of the second wall522and the third wall527.

Optionally, the second housing520has a fourth wall (not shown), corresponding to one of its extremities, facing a fifth wall528at an extremity of the third housing525. Both the fourth wall and the fifth wall528are made of a thermally conductive material and define another air flow channel extending upwardly.FIG.6shows a cross-sectional view of yet another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention. The lighting apparatus600comprises a plurality of housings610,610′,620. The plurality of housings610,610′,620may comprise a plurality of lighting housings610,610′ and a functional housing620.

Each of the plurality of lighting housings610,610′ may be provided with at least one lighting unit611,611′ as well as a heat sink615,615′ arranged on top of the at least one lighting unit611,611′. The functional housing620may be provided with a functional electronic component, e.g. a driving means621. For example, the functional housing620may be provided with a driving means621configured for driving the plurality of lighting units611,611′.

In the embodiment ofFIG.6, the plurality of housings610,610′,620may comprise one or more substantially V-shaped elongated profiles made by extrusion. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may be made in a thermally-conductive material, preferably metal, more preferably aluminum. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may have an open end.

In the case of the plurality of lighting housings610,610′, the open end may be closed by a lower part613,613′ made in a translucent or transparent material to allow light emission from the at least one lighting unit611,611′ provided therein. In the case of the functional housing620, two substantially elongated profiles, a V-shaped profile and an arc-shaped profile, may be arranged such that their respective open ends correspond, each of the V-shaped profile and the arc-shaped profile composing half of the functional housing620. A sealing gasket may be provided between the two elongated profiles of the functional housing620.

A spacing means (not shown) is configured for arranging each of the plurality of first walls at a distance of each of the plurality of second walls such that a plurality of air flow channels640, four air flow channels in the embodiment ofFIG.6, is defined between the plurality of first walls and the plurality of second walls, a minimum distance between each of the plurality of first walls and each of the plurality of second walls being at most 3 cm, preferably at most 1 cm, more preferably at most 0.5 cm, and being larger than 0.5 mm, preferably larger than 1 mm. Each of the plurality of air flow channels640extends in an upward direction between an air entrance641and an air exit642and is configured as an air cooling element. In the embodiment ofFIG.6, each of the plurality of first walls and each of the plurality of second walls is straight. The distance between each of the plurality of first walls and the plurality of second walls is constant when looking in a downstream direction from the air entrance641to the air exit642.

The plurality of lighting housings610,610′ comprises a plurality of downward illuminating lighting housings610and an upward illuminating lighting housing610′. Each of the plurality of downward illuminating lighting housings610is oriented such that a lighting direction of the at least one lighting unit611is substantially vertical and facing down. A narrow end of the substantially V-shaped elongated profile of each of the plurality of downward illuminating lighting housings610is oriented upward. The three downward illuminating lighting housings610are arranged next to each other in the embodiment ofFIG.6.

The upward illuminating lighting housing610′ is oriented such that a lighting direction of the at least one lighting unit611′ is substantially vertical and facing up. A narrow end of the substantially V-shaped elongated profile of the upward illuminating lighting housing610′ is oriented downward. Two of the plurality of downward illuminating lighting housings610comprises at least one first wall facing at least one second wall of the upward illuminating lighting housing610′. More specifically, the upward illuminating lighting housing610′ is arranged such as to complement the space defined between two of the three downward illuminating lighting housings610.

The functional housing620is oriented such that a narrow-end of the V-shaped profile comprised in it is upside-down relative to the V-shaped profiles of the plurality of downward illuminating lighting housings610. Two of the plurality of downward illuminating lighting housings610comprises at least one first wall facing at least one second wall of the functional housing620. More specifically, the functional housing620is arranged such as to complement the space defined between two of the three downward illuminating lighting housings610. Additionally, three levels of arrangement can be distinguished between the plurality of housings610,610′,620of the lighting apparatus600: level 1, level 2, and level 3. By arrangement level, it is meant a horizontal virtual line passing through a geometric center of the housing it is associated with, as seen in the plane perpendicular to the length direction. In the embodiment ofFIG.6, the plurality of downward illuminating lighting housings610are substantially aligned on a first horizontal line representing the first arrangement level (or level 1), while the upward illuminating lighting housing610′ is arranged higher vertically in the lighting apparatus600on a second horizontal line representing the second arrangement level (or level 2) such that its geometric center is above this first horizontal line, and the functional housing620is arranged even higher vertically in the lighting apparatus600on a third horizontal line representing the third arrangement level (or level 3) such that its geometric center is above the first and second horizontal lines.

FIGS.7A-7Billustrate a cross-sectional view and an exploded perspective view, respectively, of another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention. The lighting apparatus700comprises a plurality of housings710,720a,720b. The plurality of housings710,720a,720bmay comprise a plurality of lighting housings710and a functional housing720a,720b.

Each of the plurality of lighting housings710may be provided with at least one lighting unit711. The functional housing720may be provided with a functional electronic component, e.g. a driving means721. For example, the functional housing720may be provided with a driving means721configured for driving the plurality of lighting units711.

In the embodiments ofFIGS.7A-7B, the plurality of housings710,720a,720bmay comprise one or more substantially V-shaped elongated profiles made by extrusion. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may be made in a thermally-conductive material, preferably metal, more preferably aluminum. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may define closed profiles with a closed bottom end.

In the case of the plurality of lighting housings710, the closed bottom end may be provided with the at least one lighting unit711in thermal contact thereof such as to dissipate the heat from the at least one lighting unit711during light emission. At least one optical element, two pair of louver elements726in the embodiments ofFIGS.7A-7B, may be provided within rails on each side of the lighting housings721as seen in the longitudinal direction, said rails extending along each side of the at least one lighting unit711. The two pair of louver elements726are configured for blocking light rays emitted by the at least one lighting unit711above a predefined angle in order to avoid glaring light.

In the case of the functional housing720a,720b, two substantially elongated profiles, inFIGS.7A-7Btwo V-shaped profiles720a,720bsimilar to the ones used for the plurality of lighting housings710, may be arranged such that their respective closed bottom ends correspond, each of the two V-shaped profiles720a,720bcomposing half of the functional housing720a,720b. Thus, two distinct and separate compartments are created by each of the two V-shaped profiles720a,720bof the functional housing. The driving means721is arranged within one V-shaped profile720bof the functional housing720a,720b. A joining element725provided within rails on each side of the functional housing720a,720bas seen in the longitudinal direction may be provided between the two V-shaped profiles720a,720bof the functional housing to attach the two V-shaped profiles720a,720btogether. A sealing gasket (no shown) may also be arranged at the interface between them.

A first end plate730and a second end plate735comprise a first spacing means (not shown) and a second spacing means736, respectively. More specifically, in the embodiment ofFIG.7B, the first end plate730and the second end plate735each comprises indents facing extremities of the plurality of housings710,720a,720b. By arranging the plurality of housings710,720a,720bwithin the indents, the plurality of housings710,720a,720bare spaced from each other by the protruding first spacing means and second spacing means736between them, such that a plurality of air flow channels740, two air flow channels740in the embodiment ofFIG.7A, are created.

FIG.8illustrates an exploded perspective view of a lighting housing of another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention.

The lighting housing810a,810bofFIG.8may comprise an upper housing810aand a lower housing810bconfigured for cooperating with each other. The upper housing810aand the lower housing810bdefine a substantially elongate housing with a V-shaped profile. The V-shaped profile has a closed bottom end.

The lighting housings810a,810bmay be provided with at least one lighting unit811, two side-by-side lighting units811in the embodiment ofFIG.8. The lighting units811are mounted against the closed bottom end of the lower housing810bsuch as to be in thermal contact thereof. Both the upper housing810aand the lower housing810bmay be made of metal, more particularly sheet metal, and formed by folding.

The lighting units811may electrically connect to additional components using electrical connecting means passing within through-holes811bof the lower housing810band using at least one connector812bfitted to the corresponding through-hole811b.

Additionally, in the embodiment ofFIG.8, a plurality of ventilation slits813cut within the closed bottom end of the lower housing810ballows for additional air flow to cool down the lighting housing810a,810b.

A suspension fixation812amay be arranged within the lighting housing810a,810band mounted to the lower housing810b. The suspension fixation812ais configured for cooperation with a suspension means (not shown), e.g. a suspension cable, passing through a corresponding suspension slit811aof the upper housing810asuch as to enable suspension of the lighting housing810a,810b.

The skilled person will understand that, as illustrated in the embodiment ofFIG.8, multiple lighting housings810may be arranged in line in a modular manner.

FIGS.9A-9Billustrate a cross-sectional view and an exploded perspective view, respectively, of another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention. The lighting apparatus900comprises a plurality of housings910,910′,920. The plurality of housings910,910′,920may comprise a plurality of lighting housings910,910′ and a cooling housing920.

Each of the plurality of lighting housings910,910′ may be provided with at least one lighting unit911. At least one of the lighting housings910′ may also be provided with a functional electronic component, e.g. a driving means911′ configured for driving the plurality of lighting units911.

In the embodiments ofFIGS.9A-9B, the plurality of housings910,910′,920may comprise one or more substantially V-shaped elongated profiles made by die-casting. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may be made in a thermally-conductive material, preferably metal, more preferably aluminum. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may define open profiles with an open end. More specifically, as illustrated in the embodiment ofFIG.9B, the plurality of lighting housings910,910′ may be formed with closed extremities, while the cooling housing920may be formed with open extremities. Alternatively, the cooling housing920may be made by extrusion or folding sheet metal. In another embodiment, the cooling housing920may be made from plastic.

In the case of the plurality of lighting housings910,910′, the open end may be closed by a lower part913shaped as a tray onto which at least one lighting unit911is provided, four lighting units911in the embodiment ofFIG.9Bin a 2×2 array. In the embodiments ofFIGS.9A-9B, there is one lower part913provided to each of the plurality of lighting housings910,910′. In another embodiment, a single lower part may be provided to at least two lighting housings910,910′ of the plurality of light housings910,910′.

The driving means911′ may also be mounted to this lower part913of the at least one lighting housing910′. In the embodiments ofFIGS.9A-9Bnthe lower part913further comprises a plurality of aerating vents914extending along the periphery of the lower part913. The plurality of aerating vents914is configured for enabling additional air flow to cool down the plurality of lighting housings910,910′.

The cooling housing920may be arranged in a direction opposite the plurality of lighting housings910,910′ in a complementary manner with the plurality of lighting housings910,910′. The cooling housing920and the plurality of lighting housings910,910′ may be fixed to each other using a spacing means (not shown).

The spacing means is configured for arranging the plurality of lighting housings910,910′ and the cooling housing920at a distance of each other such that a plurality of air flow channels940, two air flow channels940in the embodiment ofFIG.9A, are defined. The spacing means may comprise at least one spacer and at least one fixing means, e.g. nut and bolt, screw, etc.

FIG.10illustrates an exploded perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention. The lighting apparatus1000comprises a plurality of housings1010,1020. The plurality of housings1010,1020may comprise a plurality of lighting housings1010and a functional housing1020.

Each of the plurality of lighting housings1010may be provided with at least one lighting unit1011as well as a heat sink1015provided to it. The functional housing1020may be provided with a functional electronic component, e.g. a driving means1021. For example, the functional housing1020may be provided with a driving means1021configured for driving the plurality of lighting units1011.

In the embodiment ofFIG.10, the plurality of housings1010,1020may comprise one or more substantially V-shaped elongated profiles made by extrusion. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may be made in a thermally-conductive material, preferably metal, more preferably aluminum. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may define open profiles with an open end.

In the case of the plurality of lighting housings1010, the open end may be provided with the at least one lighting unit1011to close it off. In the case of the functional housing1020, two substantially elongated profiles, two V-shaped profiles similar to the ones used for the plurality of lighting housings1010, may be arranged such that their respective open ends correspond, each of the two V-shaped profiles composing half of the functional housing1020. The driving means1021is arranged within the functional housing1020, mounted to a mounted board1022extending in the middle of the functional housing1020, within the open end.

A first end plate1030and a second end plate1035comprise a first spacing means (not shown) and a second spacing means (not shown), respectively. A first plurality of fixation holes1031and a second plurality of fixation holes1036are provided to the first end plate1030and the second end plate1035, respectively. The plurality of housings1010,1020are configured to be mounted by their extremities to the first end plate1030and the second end plate1035using a first plurality of fixation means1032and a second plurality of fixation means1037, respectively, cooperating with the first and second plurality of fixation holes1031,1036. By arranging the plurality of housings1010,1020according to the placement of the first and second plurality of fixation holes1031,1036, the plurality of housings1010,1020are spaced apart from each other such that a plurality of air flow channels is created. A first passage1033in the first end plate1030and/or a second passage1038in the second end plate1035may allow for electrical cabling to be going through extremities of the lighting apparatus1000.

In the embodiment ofFIG.10, also the at least one lighting unit1011is configured to be mounted to the first end plate1030and the second end plate1035, respectively, by its extremities using the first and second plurality of fixation holes1031,1036and the first and second plurality of fixation means1032,1037. In an embodiment, inclination of the at least one lighting unit1011may be different between the two lighting housings1010.

FIG.11illustrates an exploded perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention. The lighting apparatus1100comprises a plurality of housings1110,1120. The plurality of housings1110,1120may comprise a plurality of lighting housings1110and a functional housing1120.

Each of the plurality of lighting housings1110may be provided with at least one lighting unit1111. The functional housing1120may be provided with a functional electronic component, e.g. a driving means1121. For example, the functional housing1120may be provided with a driving means1121configured for driving the plurality of lighting units1111.

In the embodiment ofFIG.11, the plurality of housings1110,1120may comprise one or more substantially V-shaped elongated profiles made by extrusion. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may be made in a thermally-conductive material, preferably metal, more preferably aluminum. The substantially V-shaped elongated profiles may define closed profiles with a closed bottom end. Additionally, in the embodiment ofFIG.11, the closed bottom end may comprise a plurality of fins1105extending inwardly substantially perpendicular to the closed bottom end to act as a heat sink.

In the case of the plurality of lighting housings1110, the closed bottom end may be provided with the at least one lighting unit1111in thermal contact thereof such as to dissipate the heat from the at least one lighting unit1111during light emission, through the plurality of fins1105.

In the case of the functional housing1120, two substantially elongated profiles, inFIG.11two V-shaped profiles similar to the ones used for the plurality of lighting housings1110, may be arranged such that their respective closed bottom ends correspond, each of the two V-shaped profiles composing half of the functional housing1120. Thus, two distinct and separate compartments are created by each of the two V-shaped profiles of the functional housing1120.

The driving means1121is arranged within one of the two V-shaped profile of the functional housing1120.

A first double end plate1130and a second double end plate1131are configured to close off the extremities of the functional housing1120. For each of the plurality of lighting housings1110, a first single end plate1135and a second single end plate1136are configured to close off the extremities of the associated lighting housing1110.

The first and second double end plates1130,1131comprise on their internal surfaces indents corresponding with the profile of the functional housing.1120. Similarly, the first and second single end plates1135,1136comprise on their internal surfaces indents corresponding with the profile of the lighting housing1110. Additionally, in the embodiment ofFIG.11, the first and second double end plates1130,1131, and the first and second single end plates1135,1136comprise a plurality of passages1140configured for cooperating with a plurality of electrical connectors1141in order to power electrical components of the lighting apparatus1100.

A plurality of spacing means1150,1155, triangular shaped in the embodiment ofFIG.11, are configured for spacing the plurality of housings1110,1120from each other such as to create a plurality of air flow channels between them. The plurality of spacing means150,155is configured for cooperating with a corresponding plurality of spacing indents1151a,1151b,1551cof the first and second double end plates1130,1131and of the first and second single end plates1135,1136. More specifically, each of the first and second single end plates1135,1136comprises a lower right spacing indent1151band a lower left spacing indent1151c; and each of the first and second double end plates1130,1131comprises a central low spacing indent1151a. Each of the lower right spacing indent1151b, lower left spacing indent1151c, and central low spacing indent1151afits with a corner of the corresponding triangular shaped spacing means1150mounted to the first and second double end plates1130,1131and of the first and second single end plates1135,1136.

FIG.12illustrates an exploded perspective view of another exemplary embodiment of a lighting apparatus according to the present invention. The lighting apparatus1200a,1200b,1200ccomprises a plurality of housings1210,1220. The plurality of housings1210,1220may comprise a plurality of lighting housings1210and a plurality of functional housings1220. The plurality of lighting housings1210may be triangular shaped and the plurality of functional housings1220may be lozenge shaped.

In the embodiment ofFIG.12, a first and second module end plate1230,1231may be used to assemble a first and a second module1200a,1200bcomprising each two lighting housings1210and one functional housing1220. The first and second module end plate1230,1231are configured for spacing apart from each other the two lighting housings1210and the functional housing1220such as to create air flow channels between them.

In the embodiment ofFIG.12, a first and second joining end plate1235,1236may be used at both extremities of at least one functional housing1220, thereby forming a joining module1200c. The first and second joining end plate1235,1236are configured for being arranged between the first and the second module1200a,1200band for being mounted to the first and the second module1200a,1200bsuch as to extend the lighting apparatus1200a,1200b,1200claterally. Additionally, the first and second joining end plate1235,1236are configured for creating a first air flow channel between the first module1200aand the joining module1200c, and for creating a second air flow channel between the second module1200aand the joining module1200c.

The skilled person will understand that at least one of the functional housings1220may be replaced by a dummy housing and that more than two modules may be joined to each other in the same manner as described above using a plurality of joining modules.

Whilst the principles of the invention have been set out above in connection with specific embodiments, it is to be understood that this description is merely made by way of example and not as a limitation of the scope of protection which is determined by the appended claims.