Patent Publication Number: US-2020278109-A1

Title: Modular Lighting System

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation application of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/215,262, titled “Modular Lighting System,” and filed Dec. 10, 2018, which is a continuation application of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/868,834, titled “Modular Lighting System,” and filed Jan. 11, 2018, and which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,151,469 on Dec. 11, 2018, which is a continuation application of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/349,547, titled “Modular Lighting System,” and filed on Nov. 11, 2016 and which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,869,462 on Jan. 16, 2018, which is a continuation application of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/967,146, titled “Modular Lighting System,” filed on Dec. 11, 2015 and which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,494,309 on Nov. 15, 2016, which is a continuation application of and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/562,025, titled “Modular Lighting System,” filed on Jul. 30, 2012 and which issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,212,795 on Dec. 15, 2015, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/513,376 filed on Jul. 29, 2011 and titled “Heat Sink For LED Lighting Fixture.” The entire contents of the foregoing applications are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     The present disclosure relates to lighting systems, for example, modular lighting systems having one or more heat sink modules for removing, dissipating, and/or otherwise transferring heat away from one or more light sources, e.g., one or more LED lights. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE 
     In recent years, there has been substantial interest in energy-efficient technology including energy efficient lighting. Light-emitting diode (LED) technology has the potential to operate efficiently, but may produce unwanted and/or undesirable heat. For example, heat may reduce the emission, efficiency, and/or operability of a light-emitting diode (LED). Existing heat management strategies may be expensive to implement and/or incompletely effective. Certain conventional lighting systems may include a heat sink, e.g., a finned heat sink, formed by an extrusion technique. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present disclosure relates, in some embodiments, to modular lighting systems having one or more heat sink modules for removing, dissipating, and/or otherwise transferring heat away from a light source, e.g., one or more LED lights. 
     In one embodiment, a modular lighting system may comprise a support structure; a plurality of heat sink modules physically supported by the support structure; and one or more light source modules coupled to the plurality of heat sink modules; wherein the plurality of heat sink modules are arranged in a modular manner such that the heat sink modules in the modular lighting system is variable; and wherein each heat sink module is an integral molded structure defining at least one opening or passageway. 
     In another embodiment, a modular lighting system may comprise a support structure; a plurality of heat sink modules coupled to each other and physically supported by the support structure in a modular manner; and a plurality of light source modules coupled to the plurality of heat sink modules, wherein each light source module is secured to mounting points on at least two of the heat sink modules. 
     In another embodiment, a method for assembling a modular lighting system may comprise providing a support structure; assembling a plurality of heat sink modules such that each heat sink module engages with at least one other heat sink module; mounting the plurality of heat sink modules to the support structure, such that the support structure physically supports the plurality of heat sink modules; and securing a plurality of light source modules to the plurality of heat sink modules, such that each light source module is secured to mounting points on at least two of the heat sink modules. 
     In another embodiment, a heat sink module for transferring heat from at least one light source in a modular lighting system may comprise an integral molded body. The integral molded body of the heat sink module may define at least one heat transfer element extending generally in a first direction; at least one molded wiring channel configured for routing wiring to the at least one light source; at least one air flow opening configured to allow ambient air flow through the heat sink body. 
     In another embodiment, a heat sink module for transferring heat from at least one light source in a modular lighting system may comprise an integral molded body. The integral molded body of the heat sink module may define a first end and a second end opposite the first end; a generally planar base portion extending generally in a first plane and configured for thermal coupling with at least one light source; at least one heat transfer element extending from the generally planar base portion in a first direction generally perpendicular to the first plane, and further extending between the first and second ends in a second direction; and first and second lateral sides extending between the first and second ends, each of the first and second lateral sides including connection structures for connecting the heat sink module to a similar adjacent heat sink module. 
     In another embodiment, a housing apparatus for use in a lighting system may comprise a housing body and a channel-type connection structure coupled to or formed in the housing body. The channel-type connection structure may define a channel having a generally U-shaped cross-section and extending along a length in a first direction perpendicular to the U-shaped cross-section. The channel-type connection structure may be configured to receive and engage at least one first connector inserted in the generally U-shaped channel in an axial direction generally parallel to the first direction, and further configured to receive and engage at least one second connector inserted in the generally U-shaped channel in a perpendicular direction generally perpendicular to the first direction. 
     In another embodiment, a lighting system may comprise one or more light sources, a housing for one or more electronic components associated with the one or more light sources. The housing may comprise a housing body extending in a first direction, and one or more channel-type connection structures coupled to or formed in the housing body, each channel-type connection structure defining a channel that extends in the first direction. Each of the electronic components may be secured to at least one of the channel-type connection structures by one or more first connector inserted in the channel in a perpendicular direction generally perpendicular to the first direction. The channel defined by each channel-type connection structure may be further configured to receive and engage one or more second connectors in an axial direction generally parallel to the first direction. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Some embodiments of the disclosure may be understood by referring, in part, to the present disclosure and the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1A  is a perspective assembled view of a first modular lighting system configured with three heat sink modules, according to an example embodiment of the disclosure; 
         FIG. 1B  is a perspective exploded view of the lighting system of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 1C  is a perspective view of a housing of the lighting system of  FIG. 1A , which may house electronics and provide physical support for a plurality of heat sink modules; 
         FIG. 1D  is a perspective view of the housing shown in  FIG. 1C , showing screw channels used for coupling various structures or components to the housing, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 1E  is a perspective view from above of one of the heat sink modules of the lighting system of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 1F  is a top view of the heat sink module of  FIG. 1E ; 
         FIG. 1G  is a perspective view from above of two heat sink modules of the lighting system of  FIG. 1A , showing the interconnection of the heat sink modules; 
         FIG. 1H  is a perspective view from below of the two interconnected heat sink modules of  FIG. 1G , showing the interconnection of the heat sink modules; 
         FIG. 1I  is a perspective view from above of an end cap of the lighting system of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 1J  is a perspective view from below of the end cap of  FIG. 1I  interconnected with one of the heat sink modules; 
         FIG. 1K  is a perspective view from below of the lighting system of  FIG. 1A , in an example configuration having two light panels, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 1L  is a perspective view from below of the lighting system of  FIG. 1A , in an example configuration having four light panels, according to another example embodiment; 
         FIGS. 2A and 2B  are partially exploded views of the modular lighting system of  FIGS. 1A-1L , but configured with five heat sink modules and 10 light panels, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 2C  is a bottom view of the lighting system configuration of  FIGS. 2A and 2B , according to an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 3A  is a perspective exploded view of another modular lighting system, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIGS. 3B-3E  are various perspective views of one of the heat sink modules of the lighting system of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIGS. 3F and 3G  illustrate aspects of the interconnection of two heat sink modules in the modular lighting system of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 3H  shows the assembly of heat sink modules to a support beam of the lighting system of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 4A-4D  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 5A-5D  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 6A-6D  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIGS. 7A and 7B  are perspective views of another modular lighting system, in an assembled form, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIGS. 7C and 7D  illustrate airflow gaps formed between heat sink modules of the lighting system of  FIGS. 7A and 7B ; 
         FIGS. 7E and 7F  illustrate a fastening system for connecting adjacent heat sink modules of the lighting system of  FIGS. 7A and 7B ; 
         FIGS. 7G and 7H  are perspective views of an example fastening element for connecting adjacent heat sink modules of the lighting system of  FIGS. 7A and 7B ; 
         FIGS. 8A and 8B  are perspective views of another modular lighting system, in an assembled form, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIGS. 8C and 8D  are perspective exploded views of the modular lighting system of  FIGS. 8A and 8B ; 
         FIG. 9A  is a perspective view from above of another modular lighting system, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 9B  is a perspective view from below of the modular lighting system of  FIG. 9A  mounted to a pole; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view from below of another modular lighting system mounted to a pole; 
         FIG. 11A  is a perspective view from above of another modular lighting system, according to an example embodiment; 
         FIG. 11B  is a perspective view from below of the modular lighting system of  FIG. 11A  mounted to a pole; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view from below of another modular lighting system mounted to a pole; and 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view from below of another modular lighting system mounted to a pole. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The present disclosure relates to lighting systems, for example, modular lighting systems having one or more heat sink modules for removing, dissipating, and/or otherwise transferring heat away from one or more light sources, e.g., one or more LED lights. 
     In some embodiments, a lighting system may includes a plurality of modules assembled together in a modular manner, to form a modular lighting system. Each module may include (a) at least one heat sink and/or (b) at least one light source module (e.g., an LED panel including an LED and printed circuit board). In some embodiments, a modular lighting system may include a support housing and multiple heat sink modules connected to the support housing and/or to each other. One or more light source modules may be thermally coupled to such multiple heat sink modules. The one or more light source modules may be coupled to the heat skink modules in any suitable configuration, e.g., in a one-to-one coupling arrangement, a one-to-multiple coupling configuration, a multiple-to-one coupling configuration, or a multiple-to-multiple coupling configuration. In embodiments or configurations in which light source modules are coupled to heat sink modules in a one-to-one arrangement, each light source module and associated heat sink module may be referred to herein as a light source/heat sink module, such that the lighting system includes multiple light source/heat sink modules connected to a support housing and/or to each other. 
     The heat sink modules may be in thermal communication with heat-generating components of the lighting system, including the light source modules and/or other heat-generating components of the lighting system (e.g., control circuitry, transformers, batteries, etc.) in order to transfer heat away from such components. For example, the heat sink modules may be designed to transfer heat from the heat-generating components to the ambient surroundings. In some embodiments, the heat sink modules may operate to buffer, control, regulate, moderate and/or otherwise manage heat generated by such heat-generating components in order to maintain such components at a stable temperature and/or within an operational temperature range. 
     In some embodiments, a light source module may comprise an LED panel, which may include one or more LEDs mounted to a printed circuit board (PCB). Each LED panel may have any suitable shape and size, and may be mounted to one or more heat sink modules. Further, any suitable number of LED panels may be mounted to each heat sink module. For example, as discussed below with respect to certain example embodiments or configurations, each individual LED panel may straddle adjacent heat sink modules and be physically mounted to the adjacent heat sink modules, which may provide increased structural support or rigidity to the lighting system. In other embodiments or configurations, each individual LED panel may be mounted to a single heat sink module. 
     In some embodiments, the footprint of each heat sink module may have substantially the same shape and/or dimensions as the footprint of each LED panel. For example, a heat sink and an LED panel may have substantially the same shape and footprint (e.g., a square). In other embodiments, the footprint of each heat sink module may have a substantially different shape and/or dimensions as the footprint of each LED panel. For example, a heat sink configured to cool multiple LED panels may have a substantially larger footprint than each LED panel. Further, the size, number, and configuration of light source modules (e.g., LED panels) and/or heat sink modules may be adjusted to achieve a desired illumination and/or the thermal regulation. 
     As discussed above, in some embodiments, heat sink modules are configured to be arranged in modular form. Each heat sink module may be configured for mounting to, coupling to, to other otherwise engaging with a shared housing and/or one or more other heat sink modules of the lighting system in any suitable, e.g., by permanent, semi-permanent, or removable or releasable connections. For example, each heat sink module may include connection portions or structures configured for engagement with connection portions or structures of a shared housing and/or one or more other heat sink modules, either by direct engagement between such connection portions or structures (e.g., by tongue-and-groove engagement, protrusion-recess engagement, protrusion-slot engagement, etc.) or using any suitable connectors (e.g., screws, bolts, pins, clips, etc.), adhesive, or in any other suitable manner. 
     A lighting system may include a support housing and multiple heat sink modules arranged in any suitable manner, e.g., in one or more arrays of heat sink modules supported by the support housing and/or by adjacent heat sink modules. For example, a lighting system may include an array of heat sink modules that are each directly coupled to and supported by the support housing. In such embodiments, the heat sink modules may or may not also be coupled to each other. As another example, a lighting system may include an array of heat sink modules connected to each other, with only one heat sink module in the array being directly coupled to the support housing, such that the heat sink module array is supported by the support housing in a cantilevered manner. As another example, multiple heat sink module arrays may be supported by the support housing in such a cantilevered manner, with the multiple arrays of heat sink modules extending from multiple different sides of the support housing. Thus, in such embodiments, each heat sink module may be configured with sufficient structural integrity to support itself, one or more other heat sink modules, and/or one or more light source modules. 
     Each array of heat sink module may include any suitable number of heat sinks. In some embodiments, e.g., where the heat sink arrays are cantilevered from the support housing, the number of heat sink modules in each array may be selected or varied as desired, without modifying or replacing the support housing. In other embodiments, e.g., where each individual heat sink is directly coupled to the support housing, the support housing may be selected or modified to accommodate a variable number of heat sink modules. In such embodiments, the support housing may be formed by extrusion, such that the support housing may simply be extruded to the appropriate length to accommodate the desired number of heat sink modules. 
     It should be understood that in other embodiments, the support housing and heat sink modules may be arranged in any other suitable manner. 
     The support housing and heat sink modules may include any suitable features. For example, heat sink modules may include any one or more of the following features (a) heat transfer structures (e.g., fins or other heat transfer surfaces); (b) air flow passageways that allow ambient air to flow through the heat sink modules or between adjacent heat sink modules, e.g., for increased convective heat transfer; (c) heat transfer conduits of an active or passive heat transfer system for communicating one or more heat transfer fluids (e.g., water), for increased heat transfer away from heat-generating devices; (d) wiring passageways for routing electrical wiring of the lighting system; (e) connection portions or structures for connecting or facilitating the connection of a heat sink module to the support housing and/or to one or more other heat sink modules; and/or (f) any other suitable features. These features are discussed in more detail below. 
     In some embodiments, each heat sink module may include fins, protrusions, or any other heat transfer structures that provide increased surface area for promoting heat transfer to the surrounding environment, e.g., by convection. Such heat transfer structures may have any suitable shape, size, and orientation. 
     In some embodiments, each heat sink module may include one or more air flow openings that allow ambient air flow through the body of the heat sink module, to promote heat transfer to the surrounding environment, e.g., by convection. As used herein, an “air flow opening” means an opening through an individual heat sink module, which opening has a perimeter that is completely surrounded or enclosed by structural elements of the heat sink module, such that the opening is integral to the heat sink. Thus, an air flow opening is distinguished, for example, from an open-sided recess formed in a side or edge of a structural element. Example air flow openings are shown in  FIG. 1E , indicated at  92 A and  92 B. 
     Air flow openings may be defined by any slots, openings, channels or other structures or features to define an enclosed-perimeter opening. In some embodiments, each heat sink module has a body that extends generally in a first plane, and one or more air flow openings through the body of the heat sink module in a direction generally perpendicular to the first plane. For example, a lighting system may include heat sink modules that extend generally horizontally (when installed for use), with each heat sink modules including air flow openings that define generally vertical air flow passageways through the heat sink modules. 
     In some embodiments, each heat sink module may include heat transfer conduits of an active or passive heat transfer system for communicating one or more heat transfer fluids (e.g., water), for increased heat transfer away from heat-generating devices. Such heat transfer conduits may include heat pipes or any other suitable conduits through which one or more heat transfer fluids are circulated. 
     In some embodiments, each heat sink module may define wiring passageways for routing electrical wiring of the lighting system, e.g., wiring connecting a power source with one or more light source modules. Each heat sink module may include one or more recesses, channels, slots, openings, or other features to define such wiring passageways for routing electrical wiring of the lighting system. For example, a heat sink module may include features that define one or more wiring passageways configured such that electrical wiring may be hidden from view and/or protected from damage, e.g., behind one or more light panels. In embodiments in which heat sink modules includes elongated fins or other heat transfer structures, such wiring passageways may extend parallel to, perpendicular to, or in any other direction relative to the direction of elongation of the heat transfer structures. 
     In some embodiments, heat sink modules may include connection portions or structures suitable for coupling multiple heat sink modules to each other and/or to a support housing. For example, each heat sink module may include a connection structure (e.g., a protrusion) shaped and positioned for engaging with a connection structure (e.g., a slot or recess) formed in an adjacent heat sink module, such that the connection structures may be used to connect multiple heat sink module in a row. Alternatively, each heat sink module may include multiple connection structures (e.g., protrusions) shaped and positioned for engaging with multiple connection structures (e.g., slots or recesses) formed an adjacent heat sink module, such that the connection structures may be used to connect multiple heat sink module in a row. 
     For example, a lighting system may include an array of heat sink modules connected in the following manner. A first heat sink module may include a protrusion or multiple spaced-apart protrusions on a first edge (e.g., a leading edge) a recess or multiple spaced-apart recesses on a second edge (e.g., a trailing edge opposite the leading edge). A second heat sink module may be placed such that its leading edge engages with the trailing edge of the first heat sink module, specifically, such that the protrusion(s) on the leading edge of the second heat sink module engage with corresponding recess(es) on the trailing edge of the first heat sink module. In some embodiments, such protrusions and recesses may be configured with recesses, holes, ribs, ridges, and/or any other features to couple the two heat sink modules together and/or one or more fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, pins, clips, etc.) may be used to further couple the heat sink modules. One or more additional heat sink modules may be coupled to the array in a similar manner. For example, a third heat sink module may be placed such that its leading edge engages with the trailing edge of the second heat sink module, and so on, in order to assemble an array of any suitable number of heat sink modules. 
     The support housing of the lighting system may comprise any structure or structures configured to provide structural support to one or more heat sink modules and/or to house or provide protection for electronic components of the lighting system, e.g., one or more power supplies (e.g., LED drivers), controllers, surge monitors, terminal blocks, daylight sensors, photo controls, wiring, wiring connections, etc. In some embodiments, the support housing may act as a heat sink or otherwise provide heat transfer from heat-generating components housed in the support housing to the surrounding environment and/or from the heat sink modules to the surrounding environment. In some embodiments, the support housing may include any of the features discussed above regarding the heat sink modules, e.g., heat transfer structures, air flow passageways, heat transfer conduits, wiring passageways, connection portions or structures, etc. 
     Heat sink modules and the support housing may be formed using any suitable manufacturing process or processes, e.g., molding, extrusion, machining, etc. Each heat sink module may be formed as a single, integral structure, or may be formed by assembling multiple structural components. 
     In some embodiments, each heat sink module is formed as a single, integral structure using a molding process, e.g., a die cast process. In such embodiments, a molding process is used to form an integral molded heat sink module including any one or more of the various features discussed above—(a) heat transfer structures (e.g., fins, etc.), (b) air flow passageways, (c) heat transfer conduits, (d) wiring passageways, (e) connection portions or structures, and/or (f) any other suitable features. One or more features formed by the molding process may be difficult or realistically impossible to form by an extrusion process. For example, certain passageways, conduits, or other structures of a molded heat sink module that can be formed by a molding process cannot feasibly be formed by an extrusion process, without additional machining or assembly of components. 
     In some embodiments, the support housing is formed by an extrusion process. Thus, the dimension of the support housing may be varied in the direction of extrusion to accommodate a variable number and/or size of heat sink modules, without requiring significant tooling adjustments. For example, the support housing may be extruded to a first length to accommodate two heat sink modules, or to a second length to accommodate three heat sink modules, etc. Thus, a lighting system may accommodate a variable number or size of heat sink modules simply by selecting a support housing extruded to the appropriate length. Thus, an existing assembled lighting system may be adjusted to accommodate a different number of heat sink modules simply by replacing the existing support housing extruded to one length with a new support housing extruded to a different length. 
     Further, as discussed below, the support housing may include one or more extruded channel-type connection structures configured to receive coupling screws or other connectors, e.g., for securing electronics or other devices or structures to the support housing. 
     In some embodiments, a lighting system includes an extruded support housing and a plurality of molded heat sink modules, in contrast to certain conventional lighting systems that include a molded support housing and an extruded heat sink module. 
     In some embodiments, an LED lighting system (e.g., an outdoor LED luminaire) may comprise a support housing, a plurality of heat sink modules supported by the support housing, and one or more LED panels supported by the heat sink modules. The heat sink modules and/or the support housing are configured to dissipate heat generated by the LEDs. The LED lighting system may be scaled, by assembling a desired number of heat sinks and LED panels, to provide a desired light output. 
     In some embodiments, the heat sink modules may be adjusted laterally (e.g., side-to-side) with respect to the support structure, e.g., to center the heat sink assembly with respect to an extension arm and/or a light pole or other mounting structure. For example, in the example embodiments shown in  FIGS. 1-3 , heat sink modules may be adjusted and secured at various lateral positions on a support structure as desired, in order to center or otherwise arrange the heat sink modules with respect to the support structure, extension arm, light pole, etc. 
       FIG. 1A  is a perspective view of heat sink module  130  according to a specific example embodiment of the disclosure. As shown, heat sink module  130  comprises heat sink  140  with attached panel  135 . Heat sink  140  comprises face plate mount  121  and coupling  143 . Panel  135  comprises wire channel  136 .  FIG. 1B  is a perspective view of heat sink module  130 . As shown, heat sink assembly  130  comprises panel  135  and heat sink  140 , which in turn comprises coupling  143 , vents  144 , fins  147 , and holes  149 .  FIG. 1C  is a perspective view of heat sink module  130 .  FIG. 1D  is a perspective view of heat sink module  130 . 
       FIGS. 1A-1D  illustrate various aspects of a first modular lighting system  10 A, according to an example embodiment. 
       FIG. 1A  is an assembled view, and  FIG. 1B  is an exploded view of example modular lighting system  10 A. As shown, modular lighting system  10 A may include a support housing  12  coupled to an extension arm  14 , a plurality of heat sink modules  16  physically supported by support housing  12 , and a plurality of LED panels  18  physically supported by heat sink modules  16 . In the illustrated example, modular lighting system  10 A is assembled with three heat sink modules  16 A- 16 C and six LED panels  18 A- 18 F. However, in other embodiments or configurations, modular lighting system  10 A may include any other number and arrangement of heat sink modules  16  and LED panels  18 . 
     As shown, modular lighting system  10 A may also include first and second end caps  20 A and  20 B, a front plate  22 , gaskets  24  and  25 , compression plates  26 , and various connectors for connecting the various components of system  10 A. Support housing  12  may comprise a housing body  30  and an access door  32  coupled to the housing body  24 , as discussed below with reference to  FIG. 1D . 
     As discussed below in greater detail, each heat sink module  16 A- 16 C has a rear side  34  that engages with support housing  12 , and lateral sides  36 A and  36 B (shown in  FIGS. 1E-1H ) that engage with an adjacent heat sink module  16  or end cap  20 A. Thus, adjacent heat sink modules  16  may couple to each other (e.g., in an interlocking manner), which may increase the structural integrity of modular light system  10 A. End caps  20 A and  20 B are coupled to support housing  12  at opposite axial ends of support housing  12 . A gasket  24  secured by a compression plate  26  may be provided between support housing  12  and each end cap  20 A and  20 B. A gasket  25  may be provided between access door  32  and body  32  of support housing  12 . Gaskets  24  and  25  may seal an interior cavity of support housing  12 , e.g., to protect electrical components of lighting system  10 A from the exterior environment. 
     LED panels  18 A- 18 F may be secured to a bottom side of heat sink modules  16 A- 16 C. As discussed below, each LED panels  18 A may be (a) connected to at least two heat sink modules  16  or (b) connected to at least one heat sink module  16  and an end cap  20 , which may further increase the structural integrity of the assembled modular light system  10 A. 
     In an example embodiment, each heat sink module  16 A- 16 C may be molded as a single, integral component (e.g., using a die cast process), which may provide various advantages as discussed above. For example, as discussed below, each molded heat sink module  16  may include heat transfer structures (in this example, fins)  90 , air flow openings  92 , wiring passageways  102 , and connection structures  104 ,  108 ,  110 ,  118 , etc. for connecting the heat sink module  16  to support housing  12 , adjacent heat sink module(s)  16 , and/or end cap  20 A. One or more of such features may not be feasibly formed by an extrusion process, without additional machining or assembly of components. 
     Further, support housing  12  may be extruded (e.g., each of housing body  30  and access door  32  may be extruded components), which may provide various advantages as discussed above. For example, support housing  12  may be extruded to various different lengths in order to accommodate different numbers or sizes of heat sink modules  16 . 
     Extension arm  14  may be configured to mount lighting system  10 A to a light pole or other structure, in order to provide an elevated lighting system  10 A that directs light downwardly. Thus, extension arm  14  may be secured to support housing  12  and the light pole or other structure in any suitable manner, e.g., using connectors as shown in  FIG. 1B . 
       FIG. 1C  is a perspective view of housing body  30  of modular lighting system  10 A, according to one embodiment. Housing body  30  may include a rear portion  40  configured for connection to extension arm  14 , a top portion  42 , a front portion  44  configured to engage with and physically support heat sink modules  16 A- 16 C, and a bottom portion  46  configured to receive removable door  32 , as discussed below with respect to  FIG. 1D . Rear portion  42  may include holes  48  or other structures for engaging connectors for securing housing body  30  with extension arm  14 . Front portion  44  may include any suitable structures or features for supporting heat sink modules  16 A- 16 C. In this example, front portion  44  includes (a) an elongated groove  50  and a seat  52  for receiving and supporting an elongated hook structure  80  and a hip structure  82 , respectively, on the rear side  34  of each heat sink module  16  (shown in  FIG. 1D ). Seat  52  includes holes or other mounting points  54  configured to align with holes or other mounting points  84  formed in the hip structure  82  of each heat sink module  16 , for receiving screws, bolts, or other connectors to securely fasten each heat sink module  16  to support housing  12 . Holes or other mounting points  54  and  84  may be positioned and/or spaced apart by distances that allow for different numbers and alignments of heat sink modules  16  along the length of support housing  12 . Further, holes or other mounting points allow heat sink modules  16  to be adjusted laterally (side-to-side) with respect to support structure  12  as desired, e.g., to center the array of heat sink modules  16  with respect to support structure  12 , extension arm  14 , a light pole, and/or any other structure. In some embodiments, the connection between support structure  12  and heat sink modules  16  may allow for infinite adjustment, rather than adjustment between defined mounting positions. 
     As shown in  FIG. 1C , housing body  30  may include one or more elongated channel-type connection structures  56  configured to receive screws or other connectors, e.g., for securing electronics or other devices or structures to the support housing. Channel-type connection structures  56  are also shown in  FIG. 1D , which illustrates support housing  12  in an assembled stated and with end cap  20 A and heat sink module  16 A connected to support housing  12 . As shown, access door  32  is secured to housing body  30  by inserting a first hooked edge  70  of door  32  into a corresponding first hooked edge  72  defined on the bottom side  46  of housing body  30  to provide a rotatable coupling between access door  32  and housing body  30 , rotating access door  32  to the illustrated closed position, and securing a second edge  74  of door  32  to a second edge  76  of housing body  30 , using screws or any other suitable connectors  78 . Door  32  may provide access to the interior of housing  12  by removing connectors  78  and rotating door  32  to an open position. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1C and 1D , each channel-type connection structure  56  may extend in a first direction, e.g., an extrusion direction indicated by arrow Dexo. Each channel-type connection structure  56  may be configured to receive and securely engage screws or other connectors that are inserted in a direction generally perpendicular to the first direction, such perpendicular directions indicated by arrows D perp ). Such connections may be suitable for securing electronics or other structures within support housing  12 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 1D , an example component  60  (e.g., an LED driver, controller, surge monitor, terminal block, sensor, etc.) may be secured to a mounting bracket or other mounting structure  61 , which in turn may be secured to a channel-type connection structure  56  by one or more screws or other connectors. Alternatively, component  60  may be coupled directly to a channel-type connection structure  56  by one or more screws or other connectors (e.g., without using a mounting bracket). In other configurations, a component  60  may be coupled directly or indirectly (e.g., using mounting brackets) to multiple channel-type connection structures  56 . 
     As shown, the continuous channels provided by each connection structure  56  allows for infinite mounting positions for component  60  along the length of housing  12 , which may provide increased flexibility as compared with systems that use dedicated mounting points. Thus, multiple components may be secured in support housing  12  in a very flexible manner, without being restricted to predefined mounting points along the length of the housing  12 . 
     In some embodiments, each channel-type connection structure  56  may also receive and securely engage screws or other connectors that are inserted into the end of the connection structure  56  in a direction generally parallel to the first direction, such perpendicular directions indicated by arrows D par  in  FIG. 1C . Such connections may be suitable for securing various structures to the axial ends of housing body  30 . For example, compression plates  9  and/or end caps  20  may be secured to the axial ends of housing body  30  by screws or other connectors inserted through holes in compression plates  9  and/or end caps  20  and into the axial ends of channel-type connection structures  56  in a direction D par . Such screws are shown, for example, in the exploded view of  FIG. 1A . 
     Channel-type connection structure  56  may have any suitable shape, size, or configuration. In the illustrated example, each channel-type connection structure  56  includes a channel defined by a rounded channel portion  62  configured to receive screws or other connectors in the parallel direction D par  and an extended channel portion  64  configured to receive screws or other connectors in the perpendicular direction D perp . The rounded channel portion  62  may sweep any suitable angle circumferentially. In the illustrated example, the rounded channel portion  62  sweeps an angle between 180 degrees and 360 degrees. Such angle may (a) prevent a screw or other connector inserted in the parallel direction D par  from shifting into the extended channel portion  64 , due to the angle being greater than 180 degrees, and (b) allow the leading end of screws or other connectors inserted through extended channel portion  64  in the perpendicular direction D perp  to enter into the rounded channel portion  62 , which may allow for a reduced dimension of the extended channel portion  64  in the perpendicular direction D perp . In other embodiments, channel-type connection structure  56  may sweep any other angle, e.g., less than 180 degrees, equal to 180 degrees, or equal to 360 degrees. 
     The extended channel portion  64  may be defined by a pair of opposing flanges  66 , which may be planar or non-planar, and which may be parallel to each other or angularly offset from each other. In the illustrated example, opposing flanges  66  are planar and parallel to each other, such that the extended channel portion  64  has a constant or substantially constant width between the opposing flanges  66 . The extended channel portion  64  may extend in the perpendicular direction D perp  by a distance sufficient to provide a desired engagement with screws or other connectors inserted in the perpendicular direction D perp . For example, the extended channel portion  64  may extend in the perpendicular direction D perp  by a distance sufficient to receive and engage with multiple threads of an inserted screw. 
     In some embodiments, the total depth D channel  of the channel in the perpendicular direction D perp ), including both the rounded channel portion  62  and the extended channel portion  64 , may be at least 1.5 times the width W channel  of the channel in the extended channel portion  62 . In some embodiments, the total channel depth D channel  may be at least 2 times the channel width W channel . In particular embodiments, the total channel depth D channel  may be at least 3 times the channel width W channel . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, each channel-type connection structure  56  includes a web structure  68  extending between the rounded channel portion  62  and a wall of the housing body  30 , such that each channel-type connection structure  56  has a shape similar to a tuning fork. In other embodiments, each channel-type connection structure  56  may be connected to a respective wall of housing body  30  using two or more web structures  68 . Alternatively, the rounded channel portion  62  and/or the extended channel portion  64  (or at least a portion thereof) may be formed integrally with a respective wall of housing body  30 , e.g., such that channel-type connection structures  56  are formed as channels formed within the walls of housing body  30 . Channel-type connection structures  56  may be formed and configured in any other suitable manner. 
       FIGS. 1E and 1F  are perspective and top views, respectively, of heat sink module  16 B of modular lighting system  10 A. In some embodiments, heat sink modules  16 A and  16 C are identical or similar to heat sink module  16 A. 
     Heat sink module  16 B may include a generally planar base portion  33 , a rear side  34  configured to engage with support housing  12 , lateral sides  36 A and  36 B that engage with an heat sink modules  16 A and  16 C, respectively, and a front side  38  that is covered by front plate  22  shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B . As shown, heat sink module  16 B may include a plurality of fins  90  extending generally perpendicularly from the generally planar base portion  33  and extending in a longitudinal direction between the front side  38  and the rear side  34  of the heat sink module  16 B, for transferring heat away from one or more LED panels  18  secured to the underside of heat sink module  16 B. 
     In addition, heat sink module  16 B may includes air flow openings  92  that define ambient air flow passageways in a direction generally perpendicular to the plane of the heat sink module  16 B (e.g., generally vertical air flow passageways when heat sink module  16 B is installed in a generally horizontal manner). In this embodiments, such air flow openings  92  include first air flow openings  92 A formed near the rear side  34  of heat sink module  16 B, and second air flow openings  92 B formed near the front side  38  of heat sink module  16 B. As shown, each first air flow opening  92 A has an enclosed perimeter defined by the base portion  33 , a pair of adjacent fins  90 , and structure of the rear side  34  of the heat sink module  16 B. Similarly, each second air flow opening  92 B has an enclosed perimeter defined by the base portion  33 , a pair of adjacent fins  90 , and structure of the front side  38  of the heat sink module  16 B. Air flow openings  92  may provide increased convective heat transfer from heat sink module  16 B. 
     Heat sink module  16 B may a plurality of wire routing channels  100  that partially define wiring passageways  102  for routing wiring of the modular lighting system  100 A. In the illustrated embodiment, heat sink module  16 B includes two wire routing channels  100 , which are configured to engage with two corresponding wire routing channels  100  of heat sink modules  16 A and  16 C to form a pair of wiring passageways  102  (see  FIGS. 1G and 1H ) that extend across the total width of the three heat sink modules  16 A- 16 C. LED panels  18  secured to the underside of heat sink modules  16 A- 16 C may form the remaining side of the wiring passageways, thus forming enclosed wiring passageways. 
     Heat sink module  16 B may also include various connection structures for connecting or facilitating the connection of heat sink module  16 B to support housing  12  and to adjacent heat sink modules  16 A and  16 B. For example, to couple heat sink module  16 B to support housing  12 , rear side  34  may include a hook structure  80  configured to be engage with groove  50  of housing body  30  and a hip structure  82  configured to rest on seat  52  of housing body  30 . Holes  84  formed in hip structure  82  may be configured to align with holes  54  formed in seat  52 , for receiving screws, bolts, or other connectors to securely fasten heat sink module  16 B to support housing  12 . Holes  84  may be positioned and/or spaced apart by distances that allow for different numbers and alignments of heat sink module  16 B along the length of support housing  12 . 
     Further, connection structures formed on leading edge  36 A and trailing edge  36 B of heat sink module  16 B may be configured for engagement with corresponding connection structures formed on leading and trailing edges  36 A and  36 B of heat sink modules  16 A and  16 C. As shown in  FIGS. 1E and 1F , leading edge  36 A defines three protruding tabs  106 A- 106 C, while trailing edge  36 B defines three recesses  108 A- 108 C configured to receive and engage the protruding tabs  106 A- 106 C of the adjacent heat sink module  16 A. Further, each wire routing channel  100  includes a leading protrusion  112  extending from the leading edge  36 A, and a trailing recess  114  formed in the trailing edge  36 B of heat sink module  16 B, each trailing recess  114  being configured to receive a leading protrusion  112  of the adjacent heat sink module  16 A. Thus, each recess  114  may be sized larger than the corresponding protrusion  112 . Trailing edge  36 B may include a flange  110 , best shown in  FIG. 1H , extending along the length of the trailing edge, as discussed below. 
     Heat sink module  16 B may also include mounting points  118  (e.g., screw bosses) configured to receive screws or other connectors for securing one or more LED panels  108  to the underside of heat sink module  16 B. Mounting points  118  may be located at various positions to allow for multiple different numbers, positions, or configurations of LED panel(s) secured to heat sink modules  16 A- 16 C. In some embodiments, one or more mounting points  118  may be provided on protruding tabs  106 , indicated as mounting points  118 A in  FIG. 1H . As shown, mounting points  118 A on tabs  106  may thus project into the footprint of an adjacent heat sink module  16 , which may facilitate the coupling of individual LED panels  18  to multiple heat sink modules  16  (e.g., to provide increased structural integrity for system  10 A). For example, an example positioning of an LED panel  18  is shown by dashed lines in  FIG. 1H . As shown, the position of the LED panel  18  corresponds with one half of the footprint of heat sink module  16 C. However, due to protruding tabs  106  of heat sink module  16 B projecting into the footprint of heat sink module  16 C, the LED panel  18  can be secured not only to mounting points  118  of heat sink module  16 C, but also to a pair of mounting points  118 A on tabs  106  of heat sink module  16 B. Coupling individual LED panels  18  to multiple heat sink modules may provide additional structural integrity to system  10 A. 
       FIGS. 1G and 1H  illustrate perspective views from above and below, respectively, or heat sink module  16 B assembled with adjacent heat sink module  16 C. As shown, the leading edge  36 A of heat sink module  16 B interlocks with the trailing edge  36 B of heat sink module  16 C. In particular, protruding tabs  106 A- 106 C of heat sink module  16 B are received in corresponding recesses  108 A- 108 C of heat sink module  16 C. Further, the leading protrusion  112  of each wire routing channel  100  of heat sink module  16 B is received in the trailing recess  114  of each wire routing channel  100  of heat sink module  16 C. A leading portion of the leading edge  36 A of heat sink module  16 B may be received under the flange  110  formed on the trailing edge  36 B of heat sink module  16 C. These interlocking engagements may help ensure proper alignment of heat sink modules and/or provide additional structural integrity to system  10 A, when assembled. In addition, by covering the edge of the adjacent heat sink module, flange  110  may act to prevent or reduce light flow between the adjacent heat sink modules (e.g., upwards through the lighting system  10 A), thereby reducing unwanted losses in light output. 
       FIG. 1I  is a perspective view from above of end cap  20 A of modular lighting system  10 A.  FIG. 1J  is a perspective view from below of end cap  20 A assembled with adjacent heat sink module  16 A. As shown, end cap  20 A may include protruding tabs  126 A- 126 C configured to be received in recesses  108 A- 108 C formed in trailing edge  36 B of heat sink module  16 A. Thus, protruding tabs  126 A- 126 C are analogous to protruding tabs  106 A- 106 C of heat sink modules  16 . The engagement of protruding tabs  126 A- 126 C with recesses  108 A- 108 C may provide increased structural integrity to system  10 A. Further, protruding tabs  126 A- 126 C may include mounting points  118  for mounting one or more LED panels  18 . 
       FIGS. 1K and 1L  provide views from below of modular lighting system  10 A assembled with two heat sink modules  16 A and  16 B in a two-panel configuration ( FIG. 1K ) and a four-panel configuration ( FIG. 1L ). For the sake of illustration, the second LED panel is not shown installed in  FIG. 1K , and the fourth LED panel is not shown installed in  FIG. 1L . 
     In the two-panel configuration shown in  FIG. 1K , each LED panel  18  is positioned such that it straddles the interface between heat sink modules  16 A and  16 B, and is thus coupled to mounting points  118  of both heat sink modules  16 A and  16 B. Filler plates  130  may be installed for various reasons, e.g., to enclose the wiring passageways  102 , protect the components of system  10 A, for aesthetic purposes, etc. 
     In the four-panel configuration shown in  FIG. 1L , each LED panel  18  is positioned such that it is generally aligned with the footprint of one of the heat sink modules  16 A or  16 B. However, due to tabs  106  of heat sink module  16 A projecting into the footprint of heat sink module  18 B, the LED panels  18  aligned with the footprint of heat sink module  16 B are also secured to heat sink module  16 A at mounting points  118 A in such tabs  106 . Further, due to tabs  126  of end cap  20 A projecting into the footprint of heat sink module  16 A, the LED panels  18  aligned with the footprint of heat sink module  16 A are also secured to end cap  20 A at mounting points  118  in such tabs  126 . Such interlocking engagement between LED panels  18 , heat sink module  16 , and end cap  20 A may provide increased structural integrity to system  10 A. 
       FIGS. 2A-2C  illustrate various views of modular lighting system  10 A′ which may be identical to modular lighting system  10 A of  FIGS. 1A-1L , but configured with five heat sink modules and 10 LED panels (instead of three heat sink modules and six LED panels), according to an example embodiment. In particular,  FIGS. 2A and 2B  are partially exploded views, and  FIG. 2C  is a bottom view, of modular lighting system  10 A configured with five heat sink modules and 10 LED panels. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 2A-2C , modular lighting system  10 A′ may include a support housing  12 ′, five heat sink modules  16 , and 10 LED panels  18 . Support housing  12 ′ may be similar or identical to support housing  12  of modular lighting system  10 A, but longer to accommodate five heat sink modules instead of three. Thus, in embodiments in which the support housing is formed by an extrusion process, support housing  12 ′ may be formed in the same manner (e.g., using the same or similar tooling) as support housing  12 , but simply extruded to a greater length. 
     Thus, in some embodiments, modular lighting system  10 A may be converted between the configuration shown in  FIGS. 1A-1L  and the configuration shown in  FIGS. 2A-2C  by simply replacing the support housing (e.g., by selecting support housing  12  or support housing  12 ′) and assembling the appropriate number of heat sink modules and LED panels. Thus, modular lighting system  10 A/ 10 A′ may be a fully modular system that can be easily sized and configured as desired for the relevant application. 
     As discussed above with respect to heat sink modules  16 A- 16 C of modular lighting system  10 A, each heat sink module  16  of modular lighting system  10 A′ is configured to interlock with an adjacent heat sink module  16  on one or both lateral sides of that heat sink module  16 . 
       FIGS. 3A-3H  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system  10 B, according to an example embodiment.  FIG. 3A  is a perspective exploded view of modular lighting system  10 B. As shown, like modular lighting system  10 A, modular lighting system  10 B includes a support housing  312 , a plurality of heat sink modules  316  supported by the support housing  312 , a plurality of LED panels  318  secured to an underside of the heat sink modules  316 , a pair of end caps  320 A and  320 B, and a front plate  322 . However, heat sink modules  316  are structurally different than heat sink modules  16  of modular lighting system  10 A, and heat sink modules  316  couple to support housing  312  and to each other in a different manner than heat sink modules  16 , as discussed below. 
       FIGS. 3B-3E  are various perspective views of one heat sink module  316  of modular lighting system  10 B.  FIGS. 3F and 3G  illustrate the coupling of adjacent heat sink modules  316  to each other, and  FIG. 3H  illustrates the coupling of heat sink modules  316  to a support beam  313  of support housing  312 . 
     Turning first to  FIGS. 3B-3E , heat sink module  316  may include a rear side  334  configured to engage with support beam  313  of support housing  312 , lateral sides  336 A and  336 B that engage with adjacent heat sink modules  316 , and a front side  338  that includes a V-shaped coupling structure  340  for further engagement with the adjacent heat sink modules  316 . In some embodiments, support housing may include an electronics housing  311  and support beam  313  coupled to the electronics housing  311 . In some embodiments, electronics housing  311  is a molded structure and support beam  313  is an extruded structure (e.g., extruded aluminum). Thus, the support beam  313  may be extruded or cut to length to accommodate a selected number of heat sink modules  316  and coupled to electronics housing  311 , such that one size electronics housing  311  can be used for different number of heat sink modules  316 , e.g., to provide an application-specific modular system. Support beam  313  may also provide a wire way to rout wires from heat sink modules  316 /light modules  318  into electronics housing  311 . 
     Like heat sink module  16 , heat sink module  316  may include a plurality of fins  342  for transferring heat away from LED panels  318 , a plurality of openings  344  that define generally vertical ambient air flow passageways (when heat sink module  316  is installed in a horizontal orientation), and a wire routing channel  350  for routing wiring of the modular lighting system  100 B. In the illustrated embodiment, wire routing channel  350  may have a generally branched configuration, with each branch extending to a location corresponding to a possible wiring location of an LED panel  18  mounted to the underside of the heat sink module  316 . The installed LED panel(s)  18  may enclose the wiring passageways, as discussed above. 
     As mentioned above, heat sink modules  316  may be configured to couple to support housing  312  and to each other in a different manner than heat sink modules  16  of modular lighting system  10 A. To mount heat sink modules  316  to support housing  312 , the rear side  334  of each heat sink module  316  may include a mounting flange  352  having mounting holes  354  for securing heat sink module  316  to a support beam  313  of support housing  312 , using screws or other suitable connectors, as shown in  FIG. 3H . 
     Further, to couple heat sink modules  316  to each other, the lateral sides  336 A and  336 B of adjacent heat sink modules  316  may be arranged in an overlapping manner and secured together using screws or other suitable connectors. With reference to  FIGS. 3B-3E , lateral side  336 A may include a first flange  360  having mounting holes  362  and a portion  350 A of wire routing channel  350  extending into first flange  360 , while lateral side  336 B may include a second flange  364  including mounting bosses  366  aligned with mounting holes  362  in first flange  360  and a recess or cutout  368  aligned with wire routing channel portion  350 A of first flange  360 . 
     To couple heat sink module  316  with adjacent heat sink modules  316 , the second flange  364  on lateral side  336 B is arranged over the first flange  360  on lateral side  336 A such that mounting holes  362  align with mounting bosses  366 , and wire routing channel portion  350 A is received in cutout  368 . Screws or other suitable connectors may then be inserted through mounting holes  362  and mounting bosses  366 , to secure the heat sink modules  316  to each other.  FIG. 3G  illustrates a cross-sectional view through a first flange  360  and second flange  364  of adjacent heat sink modules  316 , showing the alignment of a mounting holes  362  and mounting boss  366 , though which a screws or other suitable connector may be inserted.  FIG. 3G  also shows LED panels  318  mounted to the underside of the assembled heat sink modules  316 , in one example configuration. 
     In addition, heat sink modules  316  may be further secured to each other at the front side  338 . As shown in  FIGS. 3B-3E , each heat sink module  316  includes a V-shaped coupling structure  340  for further engagement with the adjacent heat sink modules  316 .  FIG. 3F  illustrates the engagement of V-shaped coupling structures  340  during the assembly adjacent heat sink modules  316 . In this example, a V-shaped portion  370  at a first end of each V-shaped coupling structure  340  is received over a correspondingly shaped protrusion  372  at a second end of the adjacent V-shaped coupling structure  340 . This engagement may provide increased structural integrity for the assembled system  10 B. 
       FIG. 4A-4D  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system  10 C, according to an example embodiment.  FIG. 4A  is a perspective view from above of assembled light modular lighting system  10 C. As shown, modular lighting system  10 C comprises a support housing  412 , an extension arm (i.e., light pole mount)  414 , a cantilevered array of heat sink modules  416 , and a front plate  422 . As shown, support housing  412  may include an integrated heat sink  415 . 
       FIG. 4B  is a perspective view from below of assembled light modular lighting system  10 C. As shown, light panels  418  may be mounted to the underside of heat sink modules  416  and integrated heat sink  415  of support housing  412 . Light panels  418  may comprise LEDs  419 .  FIGS. 4 c    and  4 D are exploded views of modular lighting system  10 C. As shown, heat sink modules  416  may include mounting structures  430  for connecting heat sink modules  416  to each other (e.g., using screws or other suitable connectors). Support housing  412  may include similar mounting structures  432  for connecting a first heat sink module  416 A to support housing  412 . Thus, in the illustrated example, an array of four heat sink modules  416  may be supported by support housing  412  in a cantilevered manner, with only a first heat sink module  416 A being directly coupled to support housing  412 . 
       FIG. 5A-5D  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system  10 D, according to an example embodiment.  FIGS. 5A and 5B  are exploded views of modular lighting system  10 D from above and below, respectively. As shown, modular lighting system  10 D may include a support housing  512  (including a housing base  530  and a housing cover  532 ), a plurality of heat sink modules  516 , a front plate  522 , electronic components  534 , screws  536 , and a plurality of LED panels  518 . As shown, support housing  512  may include an integrated heat sink  515 . 
       FIGS. 5C and 5D  are perspective views of assembled modular lighting system  10 D from below and above, respectively. As shown, heat sink modules  516  may be arranged as a cantilevered array of heat sink modules  516  supported by support housing  512 , and light panels  518  may be mounted to the underside of heat sink modules  516  and integrated heat sink  515  of support housing  512 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 5A-5D , heat sink modules  516  may include mounting structures  540  for connecting heat sink modules  516  to each other (e.g., using screws or other suitable connectors). Support housing  512  may include similar mounting structures  542  for connecting a first heat sink module  516 A to support housing  512 . Thus, in the illustrated example, an array of two heat sink modules  516  may be supported by support housing  512  in a cantilevered manner, with only a first heat sink module  516 A being directly coupled to support housing  512 . 
       FIG. 6A-6D  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system, according to an example embodiment.  FIGS. 6A and 6B  are exploded views of modular lighting system  10 E from below and above, respectively, while  FIGS. 6C and 6D  are assembled views of modular lighting system  10 E from below and above, respectively. 
     As shown, modular lighting system  10 E may comprise a support housing  612 , a debris screen  630 , support rods  632 , heat sink/LED panel module  617 , a front cover  622 , and spacers  634 . Each heat sink/LED panel module  617  may comprise one or more LEDs mounted to a heat sink. Support rods  632  may be arranged to extend from support housing  612  and may be configured to align and/or support heat sink/LED panel modules  617 , which may slide onto the free ends of support rods  632  (or otherwise couple to support rods  632 ). For example, two to six support rods  632  may be inserted through heat sink/LED panel modules  617  to secure heat sink/LED panel modules  617  to support housing  612 . Spacers  634  may be arranged between adjacent heat sink/LED panel modules  617  to create ventilation gaps between heat sink/LED panel modules  617 . 
       FIGS. 7A-7H  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system  10 F, according to an example embodiment. In particular,  FIGS. 7A and 7B  are perspective views of assembled modular lighting system  10 F. As shown, modular lighting system  10 F may comprise a support housing  712 , modular heat sinks  716 , LED panels  718 , and a face plate  722 . Heat sinks  716  may comprise longitudinal, self-locking, modular heat sinks. 
       FIGS. 7C and 7D  illustrate airflow gaps  730  formed between adjacent heat sink modules  716 , to facilitate air flow through lighting system  10 F.  FIGS. 7E and 7F  illustrate a fastening system  730  for connecting adjacent heat sink modules  716 .  FIGS. 7G and 7H  are perspective views of an example fastening element  732  for connecting adjacent heat sink modules  716 . The fastening system  730  may utilize fastening element that fasten each heat sink module  716  to the next. In use, each fastening element  732  may receive a screw or other connector through adjacent fins of adjacent heat sinks  716 . As shown, fastening elements  732  may comprise slanted connectors (together with a screw, pin, or other fastener) to join each heat sink to the next. In use, each slanted connector may receive a screw or other connector through a mounting through-hole of a first heat sink and enter a mounting boss in a second heat sink, thereby securing the two heat sinks together. Desirable qualities of slanted connectors may include one-sided assembly of multiple heat sink modules, improved casting, simplified design, and/or reduced cost according to some embodiments. 
       FIGS. 8A-8D  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system  10 G, according to an example embodiment. In particular,  FIGS. 8A and 8B  are perspective views of assembled modular lighting system  10 G, while  FIGS. 8C and 8D  are exploded views of modular lighting system  10 G. As shown, modular lighting system  10 G may include a support housing  812 , an array of longitudinal, center-locking, modular heat sink modules  816 , and light panels  818 . In some embodiments, electronics (e.g., transducers, power source, ballast, controls, and/or the like) may be housed in the support housing  812 . In some embodiments, support housing  812  may have a rear portion  814  (see  FIG. 8C ) for mounting to a pole or other structure. Support housing  812  may be formed, for example, by extrusion. In some embodiments, a power tray  820  (e.g., capped with a power tray cover  822 ) may be configured to slide into and out of support housing  812  as illustrated, e.g., to access electronics in inner housing  820 . Each heat sink module  816  may contact a lower face of support housing  812  with or without an interposed gasketed wire-way pad. An LED panel  818  may be fastened to a lower face of each heat sink module  816 . Certain advantageous qualities of modular lighting system  10 G may include, in some embodiments, optimal access to ambient air for efficient cooling of LED&#39;s, heat sink assemblies may be assembled on a separate line, mounting details may be cast in, modest number of parts lowering costs (e.g., capital costs), centralized CG for vibration, stress loads may be evenly distributed across fixture, and/or combinations thereof. 
       FIGS. 9A and 9B  illustrate various aspects of another modular lighting system  10 H, according to an example embodiment.  FIG. 9A  is a perspective view from above of modular lighting system  10 H, while  FIG. 9B  is a perspective view from below of modular lighting system  10 H mounted to a pole. As shown, modular lighting system  10 H may comprise an arm  914 , a support housing  912 , and a heat sink module  916 . One or more LED panels  918  may be mounted to an underside of the heat sink module  916 . In the example shown in  FIG. 9B , two LED panels  918  are mounted to the heat sink module  916 . 
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view from below of another modular lighting system  10 I mounted to a pole. Modular lighting system  10 I may include a larger heat sink module  1016  (as compared with the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 9A-9B ), with four LED panels  1018  mounted to the larger heat sink module  1016 . 
       FIGS. 11A and 11B  are perspective views from above and below, respectively, of another modular lighting system  10 J, according to an example embodiment. Modular lighting system  10 J may comprises an arm  1114 , a support housing  1112 , three heat sink modules  1116  (each supported on a different side of the support housing), and two LED panels  1118  mounted to the underside of each of the three heat sink modules  1116 . 
       FIG. 12  is a perspective view from below of another modular lighting system  10 K mounted to a pole, according to an example embodiment. Lighting system  10 K comprises an arm  1214 , a support housing  1212 , a larger heat sink module  1216 A supported on a front side of the support housing  1212  and a smaller heat sink module  1216 B supported on each lateral side of the support housing  1212 , with four LED panels  1218  mounted to the larger heat sink module  1216 A and two LED panels  1218  mounted to each smaller heat sink module  1216 B. 
       FIG. 13  is a perspective view from below of another modular lighting system  10 L mounted to a pole, according to an example embodiment. Lighting system  10 L comprises an arm  1314 , a support housing  1312 , and a larger heat sink module  1316  supported on each of three sides of the support housing  1312 , with four LED panels  1318  mounted to each of the three heat sink modules  1316 .