Abstract:
A cold cathode lighting system comprising a cold cathode lamp with electrodes on either end of the lamp, oriented such that it includes an electrode extension in order to return the electrode to the same parallel position as the main body of the lamp. The lamp&#39;s electrodes are inserted into a casing that is comprised of a casing covers on either ends of the casing which may slid be opened. The casing covers interact with a electrode cover assembly underneath the casing covers, that allows the lamp to be inserted when the casing covers are opened. The closing of the casing covers will safely engage an interconnection with the lamp&#39;s electrodes through the electrode cover assembly.

Description:
[0001]    This patent application claims the benefit of, priority of, and incorporates by reference U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 13/275,275 by Eric K. Zimmerman filed on Oct. 17, 2011, which in turns claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/394,346, entitled “Cold Cathode Light Fixture” by Eric K. Zimmerman filed on Oct. 18, 2010. 
     
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0002]    1. Field of the Invention 
         [0003]    The present invention relates to a lighting system and more particularly, a cold cathode lighting system. 
         [0004]    2. Description of the Related Art 
         [0005]    Cold cathode lighting is commonly used as an indirect light source that provides a very appealing glow that evenly wash adjacent surfaces &amp; or objects such as walls, ceiling, book cases, furniture, etc. It is used for many different interior and exterior architectural applications. It is used as hidden light source in coves accentuate corner transition between walls and ceilings. In any application it can be used as decorative, supplemental and or functional lighting. 
         [0006]    Other light sources that are used in cove lighting systems include in part hot cathode fluorescent lamps, incandescent lamps, PL lamps and LED. The following lists why these lamp configurations have many disadvantages. 
         [0007]    Hot cathode fluorescent lamps are only sold in standard straight sizes and not easily made to conform to curves in a cove. They come in limited colors and are not easily made to be dimmable. The lamps cannot be illuminated end to end. They have a relatively short life span. 
         [0008]    Incandescent lamps are not energy efficient. Their lifespan is short and need replacement often. A row of bulbs does not produce smooth continuous glow of illumination. 
         [0009]    PL lamps also produce uneven illumination. They cannot be dimmed easily and come in only a few colors. They have short life spans. 
         [0010]    LED standard output systems for coves have very low light out levels and have a very limited choice of colors. 
         [0011]    Cold cathode lighting has many advantages by comparison. Cold cathode lighting has a much longer life span then other light sources. Each lamp illuminates from end to end with no socket interruption and positioned with a small fraction of space between each lamp end resulting continuous shadow free illumination. The lamps can be easily made curved to fit any shape cove and are dimmable. They come in a multitude of colors. There are additional advantages when using low voltage cold cathode lighting systems in that individual fixtures can be produced to achieve the same advantages as mentioned above. 
         [0012]    Cold cathode lamps are commonly constructed from 3 tubular glass sections that are fused together. The first tubular glass section is the main body which produces end-to-end illumination. The main body can be produced in almost any specified length that are straight or formed to match the contours of the lamps mounting surfaces such as curved and angular building surfaces. Cold cathode lamps bodies have a maximum length of 8′ and cross sectional diameter ranging from 18 mm to 25 mm. The second tubular glass section is a pair of electrodes, each of which are located on both of the furthermost ends of the lamp body. The third tubular glass section is fused between the electrode and main body as means to extend the distance and orientation of the electrode in relation to the main body as required. Various orientations of the electrodes are required to accommodate the range of configurations including right angles, bend backs, double right angles, etc., that are dictated by different devices including prior art. These devices have been developed to insulate, cover, support, interconnect and/or other related requirements to assist in protecting the electrode from being damaged and/or causing any electrical safety hazards. The electrode is the means for transferring electricity from an external power source through the interior of the lamp between the electrodes to produce the necessary power to excite and illuminate gases such as argon mercury vapor. The construction of each electrode includes leads that are hermetically sealed so that they can extend from the interior of the lamp to its exterior through tip of the electrode. There are various means to safely and securely assist in the continuity between the connection of the electrode leads and electrical wire that originate from the required power source. Depending upon the type of said power source they can be located remotely at varying distances such as 10′, 20′, 30′ or more with the intent that the power sources must still be positioned as close to the cold cathode lamps as possible. 
         [0013]    Other types of power sources are located in close proximity of the cold cathode lamps in various types of metal casings that commonly support the main body of the cold cathode lamp mention above. There is an industry standard designation between these two types of power sources used for cold cathode lamps, based on output voltage. The two designations are a) high voltage over 1000 volts such as a high voltage magnetic transformer each of which commonly operate as many as 10 lamps and b) low voltage power source under 1000 volts such as an electronic power supply sometimes referred as a ballast each of which commonly operates one lamp. 
         [0014]    Advantages for using low voltage cathode lighting is that it is much safer and therefore complies to the NEC for use in residential applications, whereas high voltage systems are not allowed. Low voltage cathode lighting provides the ability to produce individual fixtures that include one or more casings that support the cold cathode lamp. These fixtures can be prefabricated, eliminating the need to ship separate components to be installed in the field, which is one of the disadvantages for high voltage cold cathode lighting systems. Each low voltage cathode light fixture includes one or more power supply to energize one cathode lamp. There is one cold cathode lamp per fixture. Low voltage cold cathode lighting has a much longer life span then other light sources. The lamps evenly illuminate from end-to-end with no socket interruption. Therefore each lamp can be positioned with a small fraction space between each lamp end, resulting in even, shadow-free illumination. The lamps can be easily curved to fit any cove shape and are dimmable. 
         [0015]    There are various devices used to insulate, cover, support, interconnect and/or other related requirements to assist in protecting the cold cathode lamp electrodes from being damaged and/or causing any electrical safety hazards. However what all of these devices have in common is that they all fall short in avoiding damage or breakage of the electrodes as intended. The components of these devices have not been produced to be foolproof from damaging the electrode, tubular extension &amp;/or main lamp body. Such damage can be caused by twisting, applying tension or compression resulting in direct fractures, or tiny hairline cracks, [generally during installation?]. All of which will cause the lamps to become inoperable. The cathode lamp components that have these drawbacks are cold electrode receptacles commonly called lamp holders, polymeric insulator boots, glass insulator cups, double right angle electrode lamp base, amongst others. These drawbacks are described below. 
         [0016]    Disadvantages to the right angle orientation are that the lamp is pushed into an electrode receptacle or lamp holder, forcing it until it makes positive contact between the ferrule or button shaped electrode. The lamp can break and cause injury. The lamp also extends out of the lampholder high into the cove requiring a higher cove lip to hide the lamp. 
         [0017]    A bend back orientation is where the electrode extension is bent and returns the electrode to the same parallel position as the main glass lamp. A glass cup can be used in place of the polymeric boot, but is large and bulky and requires a clip to keep it from slipping off and is extremely difficult to attach to a mounting surface so that it is positioned correctly. 
         [0018]    Glass insulator cups have to manually twist the wire from the power source to the electrode leads and then manually cover that connection with a polymeric boot for insulation with a risk of breakage from the resistance when force is applied. 
         [0019]    The disadvantage to a double right angle bend back that uses a bridge support between the main body of lamp and electrode is that physical force has to be applied with the hand to mount it to a contact located at the end of a metal mounting enclosure. 
       BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0020]    In an embodiment of the invention, a lighting system is disclosed, with a unique method of connecting a cold cathode lamp to electrode covers that properly insulate and securely interconnects the electrical wire from the power source to the lamp electrode in a manner that eliminates any pressure, torque, stress that could damage or break the electrodes. 
         [0021]    In this embodiment, a low voltage cold cathode lamp is utilized. This lamp has electrodes on either end of the lamp oriented such that it includes an electrode extension in order to return the electrode to the same parallel position as the main body of the lamp. This electrode configuration is practical and simple to produce for those familiar with producing cold cathode lamps compared to other electrode configurations. 
         [0022]    This lighting system has two sliding access doors (called casing cover end segments) with U shaped notches on the outboard edges. They may be slid into the open position to allow for the insertion of the lamp&#39;s electrodes, at both ends. The sliding access doors slide in a linear motion and to a controlled position. This controlled position is to accommodate precise alignment and spacing for the lamp electrode tip to be seated and engaged properly. 
         [0023]    An electrode cover assembly is located in the interior of the casing below the sliding access door. This assembly includes a base that supports the electrode cover and interfaces with a track in order to properly slide back the electrode cover in a linear motion to the exact position required. The electrode cover consists of a ceramic insulator in the shape of a cylinder that is open on one end to allow the entry of the lamp&#39;s electrode. The electrode cover includes an internal electrical contact spring that interconnects with a metal cap that is located at the tip of the lamp&#39;s electrode. The base that supports the electrode cover is attached to a spring or alternate tensioning device. The base automatically retracts the electrode cover to its proper position for insertion of the electrode when the sliding door is moved to the open position. The base support of the electrode cover slides along a rail or track as the sliding door is opened in order to maintain the correct alignment when the electrodes are positioned in the interconnect location below the sliding door. 
         [0024]    After the lamps electrodes are in position, the base of the electrode covers automatically slide towards the electrode as the sliding doors are being closed. The electrode cover gently engages the electrode and the electrode contact interconnects with the electrode cap. Thereafter, the lamp is ready for operation. 
         [0025]    The positioning and engaging of the electrode cover with the lamp&#39;s electrode is accomplished without applying any force pressure, torque, or stress that could damage or break the cold cathode lamp and/or the electrodes, both of which would cause the lamp to be inoperable. Further, during the process of positioning the cold cathode lamp and electrodes there is no requirement to physically handle or manipulate any components necessary for interconnecting power to the said electrodes. This is also advantageous for the reverse operation and removal of the lamps and electrodes. 
         [0026]    In an alternate assembly, a small portion of the top cover, known as the detachable casing cover segment, is disengaged from the lower housing and removed from the casing at opposing ends of the system. This open space now allows the end access covers (or casing cover end segments) with the attached electrode cover assemblies to be slid into said vacated space. The electrode cover assemblies can now interface with the lamp electrodes as above and slide within integral tracks located on the underside of the above mentioned end covers. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0027]    A more complete appreciation of the invention and many of the advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the same becomes better understood by reference to the detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
           [0028]      FIG. 1  is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a hybrid lighting system. 
           [0029]      FIG. 2  is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a hybrid flexible lighting system. 
           [0030]      FIG. 3  is an exploded view of the hybrid lighting system for  FIG. 1 . 
           [0031]      FIG. 4  is a partial view of the hybrid lighting system of  FIG. 1  with a casing cover end segment slid open. 
           [0032]      FIG. 5  is a partial view of the hybrid lighting system of  FIG. 1  with a casing cover end segment slid closed. 
           [0033]      FIG. 6  is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a mini lighting system. 
           [0034]      FIG. 7  is a perspective view showing an embodiment of a flexible mini lighting system. 
           [0035]      FIG. 8  is an exploded view of one end of the mini lighting system of  FIG. 6 . 
           [0036]      FIG. 9  is a partial perspective view of the flexible mini lighting system of  FIG. 7  with the casing cover end segment open. 
           [0037]      FIG. 10  is a partial perspective view of the flexible mini lighting system of  FIG. 7  with the casing cover end segment closed. 
           [0038]      FIG. 11  is a perspective view showing another embodiment of a hybrid lighting system. 
           [0039]      FIG. 12  is an exploded view of the hybrid lighting system of  FIG. 11 . 
           [0040]      FIG. 13   a  is a perspective view of the hybrid lighting system of  FIG. 11 . 
           [0041]      FIG. 13   b  is a perspective view of the hybrid lighting system of  FIG. 11 , where the detachable casing cover segment is being removed. 
           [0042]      FIG. 13   c  is a perspective view of the hybrid lighting system of  FIG. 11 , where the casing cover end segment is slid open. 
           [0043]      FIG. 13   d  is a perspective view of the hybrid lighting system of  FIG. 11 , where the cathode lamp is being removed. 
           [0044]      FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the hybrid lighting system of  FIG. 11 . 
           [0045]      FIG. 15  is a perspective view of the hybrid lighting system of  FIG. 11 , where the detachable casing cover segment is removed and the casing cover end segment is slid open. 
           [0046]      FIG. 16  is another embodiment of a hybrid flexible lighting system. 
           [0047]      FIG. 17  is a partial view of the hybrid flexible lighting system of  FIG. 16 . 
           [0048]      FIG. 18  is a partial, transparent view of the hybrid flexible lighting system of  FIG. 16 . 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0049]      FIG. 1  shows an embodiment of a lighting system. This light fixture is considered a hybrid lighting system and is of a standard size.  FIG. 2  is another embodiment demonstrating a flexible version of the hybrid lighting system  100 . This is called the hybrid flexible lighting system.  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 7  are further embodiments that show mini versions of hybrid lighting system  100  and hybrid flexible lighting system  200 .  FIG. 6  is called a mini lighting system and  FIG. 7  is called a mini flexible lighting system. The various lighting system  100   200   600   700  demonstrate different lighting system styles with varying degrees of variation, but also have some general commonalities. For example, the casing of the lighting system is generally comprised of a lower box and upper box. In  FIG. 1 , the upper boxes are  130  and  140 , with a lower box of  150 . In  FIG. 2 , the upper boxes are  230  and  280 , with a lower box of  270 . 
         [0050]    The flexible lighting system  200   700  have flexible raceway hoses  260   760  and is comprised of multiple casings. The casings may be arranged to allow for other than a straight-line lamp to accommodate the specific requirements for architectural conditions in which they are being used. 
         [0051]    In these embodiments, the power supply generally sits in the middle of the lighting system, and is covered by a power supply access panel. This power supply access panel can be seen in  135  in  FIG. 1  and in  240  in  FIG. 2 . Lamp clips  120   220  hold the lamp in place. 
         [0052]      FIG. 3  shows an exploded view of the hybrid lighting system  100 . This exploded view reveals the internal components and provides a better perspective of the functional components. 
         [0053]    The lighting system in all of the present embodiments accommodate a cathode lamp  110  with its electrodes  320  connected through a bend back  310  on both ends. The electrodes  320  are terminated with an electrode cap  330 . A casing cover end segment  170   240  may be slid open so that the electrode  320  may be inserted into the lighting system. The sliding casing cover end segment has a thumb/pull screw  160   250 , that may be used to fasten the segment in the closed position, and may also serve as a knob in order to slide the segment manually open. The upper box  140   230  incorporates two opposing horizontal tracks for the casing cover end segment  170   240  to slide along. 
         [0054]    There is a track  340  attached to the lower box  150  that provides a linear path for the U Chamber  360  to move along. The electrode cover  350  has one end fitted within the U chamber  360 . There is a U chamber end plate  370  that extends beyond the upper (top) portion of the U chamber  360 , such that it is in the path of the push back screw  180  attached to the casing cover end segment  170 . The U chamber end plate  370  and U chamber  360  are known as electrode cover adapters, since they attach to the electrode cover for various functional purposes. As the casing cover end segment  170  slides into the open position, the push back screw  180  travels towards the U chamber end plate  370 . As the casing cover end segment  170  continues sliding open, the push back screw  180  will come in contact with the U chamber end plate  370 , pushes the U chamber end plate  370 . This force causes the attached U chamber  360  and electrode cover  350  to slide inward along the track  340 , putting the U chamber  360  and electrode cover  350  in their retracted position. While in this retracted position, the cold cathode lamp  110  with the lamp electrode  320  facing down towards the lamp light system can be inserted through the opening left by the retracted casing cover end segment  170 .  FIG. 4  shows a cold cathode lamp  110  with its electrode  320  inserted through the opening. The electrode  320  and/or electrode cap  330  make contact with the retracted electrode cover  350  putting the cold cathode lamp  110  into proper alignment for the casing cover end segment  170 , electrode cover  350  and U chamber  360  assembly to be returned to a closed positioned. The track spring  380  is stretched when the casing cover end segment  170  is in its open position, and the track spring&#39;s  380  retraction force causes the U chamber  360  and its attached U chamber end plate  370  to move in the outward direction, thus closing the casing cover end segment  170  through the push back screw  180 . The track spring  380  also allows for the electrode cover  350  to push towards the electrode cap  330  of the lamp  110  to make contact. Also, track spring  380  allows for the electrode cover  350  to stop at varying retracted positions to accommodate varying locations of the lamp&#39;s  110  electrode cap  330 . This important aspect prevents the electrode cover  350  and/or spring contact  390  from applying too much pressure against the electrode cap  330  of the lamp  110 . Also, the electrode cover  350  and electrode cover adapter  360  are loosely held by the track, thus allowing the electrode cover to have some play or wiggle room. This wiggle room is important in accommodating variations in the angle of the electrode protrusion of the lamp. 
         [0055]      FIG. 5  displays the lighting system in its closed position. When in this closed position, the spring contact  390  makes an electrical contact with the lamp electrode cap  330 . After engaging both electrodes  320  of the lamp  110 , the electrical circuit is complete, allowing the lamp to be energized. 
         [0056]    As discussed earlier,  FIG. 6  and  FIG. 7  display mini versions of the lighting system. The general principles discussed above, of having a casing cover end segment with an internal assembly for the insertion of a cold cathode lamp, applies for these embodiments. There are slight differences in these embodiments to accommodate the smaller size of these fixtures. 
         [0057]    An exploded view of an end of the mini flexible fixture  700  end is shown in  FIG. 8 . The casing cover end segment  730  slides on the horizontal tracks within the upper box  740 . The casing cover end segment  730  has a thumb/pull screw  770  used to fasten the door in the closed position and to use as a knob for manually sliding the casing cover end segment  730 . The lower box  790  has an incorporated track in its sidewall, and provides a linear path for the sliding electrode cover mount  850  to move along. In this embodiment, the electrode cover mount  850  is considered an electrode cover adapter, since it attaches to the electrode cover to provide various functional purposes. The sliding electrode cover mount  850  is shaped such that it is in the path of the push back screw  780 . As the casing cover end segment  730  is slid into the open position, the push back screw  780  travels towards the sliding electrode cover mount  850  and will eventually make contact with the sliding electrode cover mount  850 . As the casing cover end segment  730  continues moving towards the open position, the necessary force is applied by the push back screw  780  against the sliding electrode cover mount  850  to cause the sliding electrode cover mount  850  to slide inward along the track incorporated in the lower box  790 . An electrode cover  840  fitted to the sliding electrode cover mount  850  moves inward as well, and will now be in the retracted position. The sliding electrode cover mount  850  is loosely secured to the sidewall of the lower box  790  with a screw projecting through a linear slot track  860 . This attachment allows the sliding electrode cover mount  850  assembly to slide back and forth along the track  860 . The screw is also the attachment point for the track spring  870  that provides retraction for the assembly to go from the open position to the closed position. The track spring  870  also allows for the electrode cover  840  to push towards the electrode cap  820  of the lamp  710  to make contact. Also, track spring  870  allows for the electrode cover  840  to stop at varying retracted positions to accommodate varying locations of the lamp&#39;s  710  electrode cap  820 . This important aspect prevents the electrode cover  840  and/or spring contact  830  from applying too much pressure against the electrode cap  820  of the lamp  710 . 
         [0058]      FIG. 9  shows the casing cover end segment  730  in the open position. The cold cathode lamp  710 , with its lamp electrode  810  in a downward facing attitude can be inserted through the opening left by the retracted casing cover end segment  730 . The lamp electrode and/or lamp electrode cap  820  will make contact with the retracted electrode cover  840 , putting the cold cathode lamp  710  into proper alignment for the casing cover end segment  730 , sliding electrode cover mount  850  assembly and electrode cover  840  to be returned to the closed position. The track spring  870  retracts, returning the casing cover end segment  730 , sliding electrode cover mount  850  assembly and electrode cover  840  to the closed position. 
         [0059]      FIG. 10  shows the casing cover end segment  730  in the closed position. When in this closed position, the spring contact  830  makes an electrical contact with the lamp electrode cap  820 . After engaging both electrodes of the lamp  710  in the above manner, the electrical circuit is complete allowing the lamp to be energized. 
         [0060]      FIG. 11  shows another embodiment of a hybrid lighting system. These can be produced with relatively short boxes ore relatively long raceways of any length between approximately 3′ to 8′.  FIG. 12  shows an exploded view of this hybrid lighting system. As seen from  FIG. 11  and  FIG. 12 , the top portion of the casing is comprised of the upper box  1170 , detachable casing cover segment  1140 , and casing cover end segment  1130 . The casing cover end segments  1130  can be slid open and closed, and requires that the detachable casing cover segment  1140  be removed for it to be slid open. The casing cover end segment  1130  slides along the tracks at the upper edge of the sidewalls (also referred to as legs) of the bottom section  1160 . These same legs, which act as tracks for the casing cover end segment  1130 , also act as a protrusion for the detachable casing cover segment  1140  to be snapped on. 
         [0061]      FIGS. 13   a ,  13   b ,  13   c , and  13   d  demonstrate the removal of the lamp  1110 . In  FIG. 13   a , the lamp clip  1120  is moved away from the detachable casing cover segment  1140 . In  FIG. 13   b , the detachable casing cover segment  1140  is removed. In  FIG. 13   c , the casing cover end segment  1130  may be slid inward and into the open position. In  FIG. 13   d , the lamp  1110  is removed with the casing cover end segment  1130  in the open position. 
         [0062]    Referring back to the exploded view in  FIG. 12 , it is shown that the electrode cover assembly is comprised of the electrode cover  1230 , spring contact  1240 , U chamber  1220 , and U chamber end plate  1250 . The U chamber  1220  and U chamber end plate  1250  are considered electrode cover adapters. The U chamber  1220  has its two end points facing in the upward direction, and fit into the track underneath the casing cover end segment  1130 . There are two tracks under the casing cover end segment  1130  that are both “L” shaped and facing towards one another. The U chamber  1220  slides along these tracks. The U chamber&#39;s  1220  two end points have a groove shaped profile as a means to fit and slide along these tracks. Note,  FIG. 12  also shows similar tracks  1270  under the upper box (or casing cover)  1170 , which does not necessarily have to be there, but are there to simplify the manufacturing process. There is a spring  1260  that is attached via a screw to the casing cover end segment at one end, and fixedly attached to the U chamber  1220  at the other end. 
         [0063]      FIG. 14  shows a bottom perspective view of the lighting system of this embodiment. Here, the casing cover end segment  1130  is closed, and the detachable casing cover segment  1150  is attached.  FIG. 15  shows the same bottom perspective view, but with the detachable casing cover segment  1150  detached and the casing cover end segment  1130  in the open position. As shown, opening the casing cover end segment  1130  causes the electrode cover  1230  to slide inward since the electrode cover  1230  is indirectly connected to the casing cover end segment  1130  through the spring  1260 . The main purpose of the spring  1260  is for when the lamp  1110  is inserted and the casing cover end segment  1130  is in the closed position. The spring  1260  allows for the electrode cover  1230  to stop at varying retracted positions to accommodate varying locations of the lamp&#39;s  1110  electrode cap  1280 . This compensates for varying lengths of the lamp electrode  1290  and electrode cap  1280  with generally greater tolerance than many commercial products. This important aspect prevents the electrode cover  1230  and/or spring contact  1240  from applying too much pressure against the electrode cap  1280  of the lamp  1110 . This in turn eliminates the transmission force that could damage, crack, or break the electrode and lamp. 
         [0064]    There is a post  1210  attached to the underside of the casing cover end segment  1130  and is centered between the opposing “L” shaped tracks of the casing cover end segment  1130 . This post  1210  acts as a stop to prevent the U chamber  1220  from sliding out of the track and becoming disengaged. 
         [0065]    In  FIG. 15 , it can be seen how a cathode lamp  1110  is inserted into this lighting system. While the casing cover end segment  1130  is in the open position, and the electrode cover  1230  is retracted, the lamp  1110  may be inserted by having its electrode portion inserted into the opening exposed by the casing cover end segment  1130 . The lamp&#39;s  1110  electrode will make contact with the retracted electrode cover  1230 , putting the cathode lamp into proper alignment for the electrode cover  1230 , U chamber  1220 , and casing cover end segment  1130  to be returned to the closed position. The spring  1260  gently pulls the U chamber  1220  and electrode cover  1230  causing it to slide along the track and keep it in constant contact with the lamp electrode. In this closed position the spring contact  1240  makes an electrical contact with the lamp electrode cap  1280 . With both of the casing cover end segments  1130  closed, the detachable casing cover segments  1140  may be snapped back into the lower box  1160 . After engaging both electrodes of the lamp  1110  in the above manner, the electrical circuit is complete allowing the lamp to be energized. 
         [0066]      FIG. 16  shows another embodiment of a hybrid flexible lighting system.  FIG. 17  is a partial view of the hybrid flexible lighting system of  FIG. 16 . It operates similarly to the lighting system of  FIG. 11 . The lamp clip  1620  can be moved to allow the detachable casing cover segment  1630  to be snapped off from the lower box  1650 . The casing cover end segment  1640  can be slid open, which interacts with an electrode cover assembly very much like that of  FIG. 11 . The apparent difference here is that the casing is sectionalized, and can be comprised of a plurality of casings. The center casing contains the power supply. The casings may be arranged to allow for other than a straight-line lamp to accommodate the specific requirements for architectural conditions in which they are being used. Hybrid flexible electrical conduit and trade fittings may be used to electrically connect these casings through provided knockouts. All casing are furnished with removable upper covers, making all the internal elements within said casing fully accessible for easy installation, electrical connection and servicing by the electrical trade or other qualified to install lighting products. It is shown here that the outer end casings can have the same electrode cover assembly functionality of  FIG. 11  can be applied here. 
         [0067]    The present invention has been described in an illustrative manner. It is to be understood that the terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. While there have been described herein, what are considered to be preferred and exemplary embodiments of the present invention, other modifications of the invention shall be apparent to those skilled in the art from the teachings herein and, it is, therefore, desired to be secured in the appended claims all such modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.