Patent Publication Number: US-7909487-B1

Title: Lighting system and method of making same

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Invention 
     The present invention is directed to a lighting system. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     In industry, many companies have existing buildings with existing light fixtures and/or lighting systems within the ceilings. With the green initiative, many existing light fixtures are being replaced with replacement fixtures that are configured to receive light bulbs or lamps that are more cost efficient and last longer. 
     When replacing an existing light fixture with a replacement light fixture, many problems arise. For example, the existing light fixture may have a diameter that is greater than the diameter of the replacement light fixture. As such, if a user were to try and install a replacement light fixture into the existing opening in a ceiling panel for the existing light fixture, the opening would be too wide to hold the replacement light fixture in place. Even if a user could figure out a way to retain the replacement light fixture within the existing opening, there would be an unsightly opening between the replacement light fixture and the ceiling panel. Another problem with replacing existing light fixtures is the waste created from replacing existing light fixtures, as many installations that occur do not use any remaining portion of the existing light fixture when installing the replacement light fixture. 
     What is needed is an apparatus that overcomes the drawbacks described above. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In one aspect, a retrofit can lighting system is disclosed. The retrofit can lighting system may be configured to be mounted in an opening in a ceiling above a plane of the ceiling, wherein an existing fixture ceiling ring is proximate the opening and also is above the plane of the ceiling. The system may include a lighting can, and a plurality of spring clips configured to couple between the lighting can and the ceiling ring. Each spring clip may include a can engaging portion configured to couple to the lighting can, a retainer clip engaging portion extending outwardly with respect to the can engaging portion, a fixture engaging portion configured to engage a portion of the ceiling ring, wherein the fixture engaging portion is angled upwardly with respect to the retainer clip engaging portion, and a hook portion configured to engage a portion of the ceiling ring, wherein the hook portion extends outwardly and downwardly with respect to the fixture engaging portion. The system further may include a plurality of retainer clips, wherein each retainer clip is configured to couple to retainer clip engaging portion, and further wherein each retainer clip is configured to secure coupling the lighting can and the ceiling ring. 
     In another aspect, a spring clip is disclosed. The spring clip may include a can engaging portion configured to couple to a lighting can, a retainer clip engaging portion extending outwardly with respect to the can engaging portion, wherein the retainer clip engaging portion is substantially normal to the can engaging portion, a fixture engaging portion configured to engage a portion of a ceiling ring, wherein the fixture engaging portion is angled upwardly with respect to the retainer clip engaging portion, a hook portion configured to engage a portion of the ceiling ring, wherein the hook portion extends outwardly and downwardly with respect to the fixture engaging portion, a spacing portion extends upwardly at an angle via a radius with respect to hook portion, and a leading portion, wherein the leading portion extends upwardly and inwardly via a radius with respect to the spacing portion. 
     In a further aspect, a one-inch retainer clip is disclosed. The one-inch retainer clip may include at least two engaging portions, a first engaging portion is configured to couple to a lighting can and a second engaging portion is configured to couple to a ring, a projection between the at least two engaging portions, and an opening defined within the projection, wherein the opening is configured to receive a bolt therein. 
     In another aspect, a method of assembling a retrofit can lighting system is disclosed. The method may include providing a lighting can and coupling a plurality of spring clips to an exterior surface of the lighting can. Each spring clip may include a can engaging portion configured to couple to the exterior surface of the lighting can, a retainer clip engaging portion extending outwardly with respect to the can engaging portion, a fixture engaging portion configured to engage a portion of the ceiling ring, wherein the fixture engaging portion is angled upwardly with respect to the retainer clip engaging portion, and a hook portion configured to engage a portion of the ceiling ring, wherein the hook portion extends outwardly and downwardly with respect to the fixture engaging portion. The method further may include coupling at least one of retainer clip to each spring clip with at least one coupling mechanism, wherein each retainer clip is coupled to the retainer clip engaging portion of each spring clip. 
     These and other features and advantages are evident from the following description of the present invention, with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a lighting can system. 
         FIG. 2  is a side view of a sub-assembly of the system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a retainer clip of sub-assembly of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 4  is a cross-sectional view of the system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 5A  is a side view of a spring clip of the sub-assembly of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 5B  is a front view of the spring clip of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 5C  is a bottom view of a spring clip of  FIG. 5A . 
         FIG. 6A  is a side view of a retainer clip of the sub-assembly of  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6B  is a front view of a retainer clip of  FIG. 5B . 
         FIG. 7A  is a perspective view of a trim ring of the system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7B  is a front view of the trim ring of  FIG. 7A . 
         FIG. 7C  is a cross-sectional view taken along line A-A of the trim ring of  FIG. 7A . 
         FIG. 8  is a cross-sectional view of a second system. 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a support plate of  FIG. 8 . 
         FIG. 10  is another perspective view of the support plate of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a mounting clip of  FIG. 8 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS 
     1. Can System  10   
     Turning to at least  FIGS. 1-7C , one embodiment of a lighting can system  10  is shown. System  10  is for retrofitting or replacing an existing can system within a ceiling or substrate that may have a ceiling panel  8  is described. Turning to  FIGS. 1 and 4 , system  10  may include a plurality of components, such as a lighting can  12 , a lamp  14 , at least one conversion trim ring  16 , at least one retainer clip  18 , at least one spring clip  20 , a plurality of bolts, screws or coupling mechanisms  22 , and at least one mounting mechanism or spring  24 . Additionally, system  10  may include a power cord  28  coupled to and extending therefrom. 
     Continuing with  FIG. 4 , an existing can system may be removed from the ceiling such that an existing fixture ceiling ring  26 , shown in  FIG. 6 , may remain coupled within ceiling and to ceiling panel  8 . Ceiling ring  26  may be a ring having a height  30  between a top edge  31  and a bottom edge  33 , a thickness  32  substantially defined between an inner diameter  34  and an outer diameter  36 , such that diameter  36  may be greater than diameter  34 . Height  30  may be between about 0.5″ and about 5.5″, preferably between about 1″ and about 3″, and in one embodiment, about 1.5″, and thickness  32  may be between about 0.15″ and about 1″, preferably between about 0.25″ and about 0.75″, and in one embodiment, about 0.5″. Additionally, outer diameter  36  may be between about 3″ and about 20″, preferably between about 6″ and about 15″, and in one embodiment, about 8.25″. Alternatively, ring  26  may have any suitable size or shape. 
     1.1 Lighting Can  12  and Lamp  14   
     Returning to  FIG. 1 , lighting can  12  may be configured to be installed into a ceiling, wherein can  12  is inserted upwards into the ceiling. Lighting can  12  may be a single unitary part, as shown in  FIG. 4 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 4 , lighting can  12  may have a continuous sidewall portion  38  extending between a first end  39  and a second end  41 , and further may include an end portion  40  extending from sidewall portion  38  via a bend  42 . Alternatively, lighting can  12  may have a plurality of parts, as shown in  FIG. 1 . For example, lighting can  12  may have a sidewall portion  38  and a separate end portion  40  that is coupled to sidewall portion  38 , proximate second end  41 . 
     In either example, lighting can  12  may have a height  48  and a diameter  50 , shown in  FIG. 4 . Preferably, diameter  50  may be less than outer diameter  36  of ceiling panel  8 . Height  48  may be between about 2″ and about 12″, preferably between about 3″ and about 10″, and in one embodiment, about 8″, and diameter  50  may be between about 1″ and about 18″, preferably between about 3″ and about 12″, and in one embodiment, about 6″. Alternatively, can  12  may have any suitable size or shape that facilitates operation of system  10 . 
     Additionally, as shown in  FIG. 4 , lighting can  12  may include an interior surface  44  and an exterior surface  46 . Returning to  FIG. 1 , lighting can  12  further may include an opening  52  therein, wherein power cord  28  may extend therethrough, such that power cord  28  may be coupled to a power source (not shown). In one embodiment, opening  52  is within end portion  40 . Also, as shown in  FIG. 4 , lighting can  12  may include a plurality of openings  54  therein, such that each opening  54  may be configured to receive a portion of a mounting spring therein. Moreover, as shown in  FIG. 4 , lighting can  12  may include a plurality of openings  43  therein, such that each opening  34  may be configured to receive at least a portion of a bolt  22  or bolthead  23  therein. 
     Moreover, in one embodiment, lighting can  12  is configured to receive a plate and a socket (not shown) to facilitate coupling lamp  14  within lighting can  12 . Lamp  14  may be configured to couple to the socket, wherein the socket holds lamp  14  within lighting can  12 . The plate and socket also may include a plurality of wires coupled thereto, wherein the wires may be coupled to the power source to facilitate powering lamp  14 . 
     1.2 Retainer Clip  18   
     Turning to  FIGS. 2 and 6A , system  10  may include a plurality of retainer clips  18 . Each clip  18  may be configured to facilitate coupling lighting can  12  and ring  26 . Each clip  18  may include a plurality of portions, such as a can interior engaging portion  56 , a first trim engaging portion  58 , a first height portion  60 , a bolt engaging portion  62 , a second height portion  64 , a second trim engaging portion  66 , and a fixture engaging portion  68 . Each retainer clip  18  may be fabricated from #22 galvanized sheet steel. Alternatively, clip  18  may be fabricated from any suitable material that facilitates operation of the same. For example, clip  18  may be fabricated from aluminum and/or a plastic material. Moreover, each clip  18  may have an interior surface  49  and an exterior surface  51 . 
     Turning to  FIG. 6B , each clip  18  generally may have a can engaging end  45  and a fixture end  47 . Also, each clip  18  may have a generally constant width  53  between a first side edge  55  and a second side edge  57 , and may have a length  59  between a first end  61  and a second end  63 . Width  53  may be between about 0.05″ and about 3″, preferably between about 0.25″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.5″, and length  59  may be between about 0.25″ and about 5″, preferably between about 0.5″ and about 2.5″, and in one embodiment, about 1″. In one embodiment, width  53  is about ½″. 
     Can interior engaging portion  56  may be configured to engage interior surface  44  of lighting can  12 . In one embodiment, can interior engaging portion  56  has a straight part  69  that has a length  70 . Length  70  may be between about 0.05″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.28″. In one embodiment, length  70  is about ¼″. 
     Turning to  FIG. 6A , first trim engaging portion  58  may be configured to engage a surface of trim ring  16 . In one embodiment, first trim engaging portion  58  is substantially normal via a bend  65  to can interior engaging portion  56  and extends outwardly therefrom, and further has a straight part  71  with a length  72 . Length  72  may be between about 0.05″ and about 1″, preferably between about 0.075″ and about 0.5″, and in one embodiment, about 0.1″. In one embodiment, length  72  is about ⅛″. 
     Continuing with  FIG. 6A , first height portion  60  may be configured to raise bolt engaging portion  62  a distance above trim ring  16 . In one embodiment, first height portion  60  is angled upwardly and outwardly at an angle  74  via a bend  67  with respect to straight part of first trim engaging portion  58  and further has a straight part  75  with a length  76 . Angle  74  may be between about 105 degrees and about 175 degrees, preferably between about of about 120 degrees and 150 degrees, and in one embodiment, about 135 degrees, and length  76  may be between about 0.05″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.2″. In one embodiment, length  76  is about ¼″. 
     Bolt engaging portion  62  may be configured to facilitate coupling clips  18  and  20  together. In one embodiment, bolt engaging portion  62  extends outwardly at an angle  78  via a bend  73  with respect to first height portion  60  and further has a straight part  79  with a length  80 . Angle  78  may be between about 105 degrees and about 175 degrees, preferably between about of about 120 degrees and 150 degrees, and in one embodiment, about 135 degrees, and length  80  may be between about 0.1″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.4″. In one embodiment, length  80  is about ⅜″. 
     Returning to  FIG. 6B , bolt engaging portion  62  may include an opening  82 , such that opening  82  is configured to receive a bolt  22  therein, wherein bolt  22  is configured to couple bolt engaging portion  62  to a retainer clip engaging portion of spring clip  20 . Opening  82  may be generally centered within bolt engaging portion  62 . In one embodiment, the center of opening  82  is positioned about ¼″ from either edge  55  or  57 , and the center of opening  82  is positioned about ½″ from edge  61 . Alternatively, opening  82  may be positioned at any location within portion  62 . Opening  82  further may have a diameter  81  between about 0.05″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.2″. In one embodiment, diameter  81  is about ¼″. 
     Returning to  FIG. 6A , second height portion  64  may be configured to raise bolt engaging portion  62  a distance above trim ring  16 . In one embodiment, portion  64  extends outwardly and downwardly at an angle  84  via a bend  77  with respect to portion  62  and further has a straight part  85  with a length  86 . Angle  84  may be between about 105 degrees and about 175 degrees, preferably between about of about 120 degrees and 150 degrees, and in one embodiment, about 135 degrees, and length  86  may be between about 0.05″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.2″. In one embodiment, length  86  is about ¼″. 
     Continuing with  FIG. 6A , second trim engaging portion  66  may be configured to engage a surface of trim ring  16 . In one embodiment, second trim engaging portion  66  extends outward at an angle  88  via a bend  83  with respect to portion  64  and further has a straight part  90  with a length  92 . Angle  88  may be between about 105 degrees and about 175 degrees, preferably between about of about 120 degrees and 150 degrees, and in one embodiment, about 135 degrees, and length  92  may be between about 0.05″ and about 1″, preferably between about 0.075″ and about 0.5″, and in one embodiment, about 0.1″. In one embodiment, length  92  is about ⅛″. 
     As shown in  FIG. 6A , fixture engaging portion  68  may be configured to engage a surface of ring  26 . In one embodiment, portion  68  is substantially normal via a bend  87  to portion  66  and extends upwardly therefrom, and further has a straight part  94  with a length  96 . Length  96  may be between about 0.05″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.28″. In one embodiment, length  70  is about ¼″. 
     In one embodiment, retainer clip  18  generally may be about 1″ long and may have an engaging portion, such as portions  56  and  68 , on each end, such as ends  45  and  47 . Each end  45  and  47  may be configured to facilitate securing clip  18  to can  12  and ring  26 . Clip  18  further may include a projection or offset  98  between each end, wherein the projection  98  may include an opening therein, wherein the opening may be configured to receive a bolt  22  and a bolthead  23 . Specifically, the bolt head  23  may be coupled proximate to exterior surface  51  of clip  18 . Projection  98  may be offset between ends  45  and  47  such that, in one embodiment, projection  98  is closer to end  45  than to end  47 . Additionally, projection  98  may be configured to elevate bolthead  23  a distance or height  99  above trim ring  16  and/or from surfaces  58  ad  66 , such that bolthead  23  will not interfere with coupling trim ring  16  to system  10 . Distance  99  may be between about 0.05″ and about 0.3″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 0.2″, and in one embodiment, about 0.13″. Moreover, in one embodiment, each end  45  and  47  has a height  97 , wherein height  97  may be greater than height  99  of projection  98 . 
     1.3 Spring Clip  20   
     Turning to  FIGS. 2 ,  3  and  5 , system  10  may include a plurality of spring clips  20 . Each clip  20  may be configured to further facilitate coupling lighting can  12  and ring  26 . Each clip  20  further facilitates easy removal of the coupling between lighting can  12  and ring  26 . Each clip  20  may include a plurality of portions, such as a can exterior engaging portion  100 , a retainer clip engaging portion  102 , a connecting portion  104 , a fixture engaging portion  106 , a hook portion  108 , a spacing portion  110 , and a leading portion  112 . Each spring clip  20  may be fabricated from 0.015 THK spring steel. Alternatively, clip  20  may be fabricated from any suitable material that facilitates operation of the same. For example, clip  20  may be fabricated from any spring steel, aluminum and/or a plastic material. Moreover, each clip  20  may have an interior surface  114  and an exterior surface  116 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , each clip  20  generally may have a can engaging end  115  and a fixture end  117 . As shown in  FIG. 5B , each clip  20  may have a generally constant width  118  between a first side edge  120  and a second side edge  122 , and may have an overall height  124  between a first end  126  and a second end  128 . Width  118  may be between about 0.05″ and about 3″, preferably between about 0.25″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.5″, and height  124  may be between about 0.25″ and about 5″, preferably between about 0.5″ and about 2.5″, and in one embodiment, about 1″. In one embodiment, width  118  is about ½″. 
     Continuing with  FIG. 5A , can exterior engaging portion  100  may be configured to engage exterior surface  46  of lighting can  12 . In one embodiment, can exterior engaging portion  100  has a straight part  130  that has a length  132 . Length  132  may be between about 0.1″ and about 5″, preferably between about 1″ and about 3″, and in one embodiment, about 1.25″. In one embodiment, length  132  is about 1¼″. 
     Additionally, length  132  of portion  100  of clip  20  may be less than height  30  of ring  26 . Alternatively, length  132  may be substantially the same as or greater than height  30 . In one embodiment, length  132  is slightly less than height  204 . Alternatively, length  132  may be any suitable height. 
     Turning to  FIG. 5B , can exterior engaging portion  100  may also include a plurality of openings  134 , such that each opening  134  is configured to receive a bolt  22  therein, wherein bolt  22  is configured to couple bolt portion  100  to exterior surface  46  of lighting can  12 . Each opening  134  may be generally centered within portion  100 , such that the center of each opening  134  may be positioned about ¼″ from either edge  120  or  122 . In one embodiment, the center of a first opening  134  is positioned about ⅜″ from end  115  and the center of a second opening  134  is positioned about 0.9″ from end  118 . Alternatively, each opening  134  may be positioned at any location within portion  100 . Each opening  134  further may have a diameter  136  between about 0.05″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.125″. In one embodiment, diameter  136  is about ⅛″. 
     Returning to  FIG. 5A , retainer clip engaging portion  102  may be configured to facilitate coupling portions  18  and  20  together. In one embodiment, retaining clip engaging portion  112  is substantially normal via a radius  138  to can exterior engaging portion  100  and extends outwardly therefrom, and further has a straight part  140  with a length  142 . Length  142  may be between about 0.05″ and about 1″, preferably between about 0.075″ and about 0.5″, and in one embodiment, about 0.1″. In one embodiment, length  142  is about ⅜″. Radius  138  may be between about 0.05 and about 0.75, preferably between about 0.1 and about 0.5, and in one embodiment, about 0.125. In one embodiment, radius  138  is about ⅛. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5B , in one embodiment, portion  102  may include an opening  144 , such that opening  144  is configured to receive a bolt  22  therein, wherein bolt  22  is configured to couple  102  to portion  62  of retainer clip  18 . Opening  144  may be offset between portions  100  and  104 , i.e., such that opening  144  may not be centered between portions  100  and  104 . In one embodiment, the center of opening  144  is positioned about ⅜″ from portion  100  and the center of opening  144  is positioned about ¼″ from either edge  120  or  122 . Alternatively, opening  144  may be positioned at any location within portion  102 . Opening  144  further may have a diameter  146  between about 0.05″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.125″. In one embodiment, diameter  136  is about ⅛″. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5A , connecting portion  104  may connect portion  102  to a portion  106 . In one embodiment, portion  104  extends upwardly and outwardly at an angle  148  with respect to straight part  140  of portion  102  via a radius  150  and further has a straight part  152  with a length of about  154 . Angle  148  may be between about 80 degrees and about 175 degrees, preferably between about of about 100 degrees and 125 degrees, and in one embodiment, about 103 degrees. Angle  154  may facilitate compressing clip  20  from an idle position to an engaged position, such that clip  20  in an engaged positioned may be coupled to can  12  and ring  26 . Radius  150  may be between about 0.05 and about 0.75, preferably between about 0.1 and about 0.5, and in one embodiment, about 0.13. In one embodiment, radius  150  may be about ⅛. Length  154  may be between about 0.25″ and about 4″, preferably between about 0.5″ and about 2″, and in one embodiment, about 1″. 
     In alternative embodiments, portions  102  and  104  may have any shape that facilitates coupling portions  100  and  106  together, while still facilitating coupling clip  20  with ring  26  and can  12 . 
     Continuing with  FIG. 5A , fixture engaging portion  106  may be configured to engage a portion of fixture ring  26 . Specifically, portion  106  may engage the interior surface of ring  26 . In one embodiment, portion  106  is angled upwardly at an angle  156  with respect to straight part  152  of connecting portion  104  via a radius  160 . Portion  106  further may include a straight part  162  with a length  164 . Angle  156  may be between about 80 degrees and about 225 degrees, preferably between about of about 100 degrees and 200 degrees, and in one embodiment, about 167 degrees, and radius  160  may be between about 0.05 and about 0.75, preferably between about 0.075 and about 0.5, and in one embodiment, about 0.1. In one embodiment, radius  160  is about ¼. Also, length  164  may be between about 0.1″ and about 1″, preferably between about 0.2″ and about 0.75″, and in one embodiment, about 0.3″. 
     Continuing with  FIG. 5A , hook portion  108  may be configured to engage a portion of fixture ring  26 . Specifically, in one embodiment, portion  108  may engage an exterior surface  25  of ring  26 . Further, if portions  106  and  108  engage interior and exterior surfaces of ring  26 , respectively, then radius  160  may engage top edge  31  of portion  31 . In one embodiment, portion  108  may extend outwardly and downwardly at an angle  166  via a radius  168  with respect to part  162  of portion  106 . Portion  108  further may have a straight part  170  having a length  172 . Angle  166  may be between about 5 degrees and about 85 degrees, preferably between about of about 20 degrees and 60 degrees, and in one embodiment, about 30 degrees, and radius  168  may be between about 0.05 and about 0.75, preferably between about 0.075 and about 0.5, and in one embodiment, about 0.1. Also, length  172  may be between about 0.1″ and about 1″, preferably between about 0.2″ and about 0.75″, and in one embodiment, about 0.25″. In one embodiment, length  172  is about ¼″. 
     Continuing with  FIG. 5A , spacing portion  110  may connect portion  108  to portion  112 . In one embodiment, spacing portion  110  extends upwardly at an angle  174  via a radius  176  with respect to straight part  170  of hook portion  108 . Spacing portion  110  further may have a straight part  178  with a length  180 . Angle  174  may be between about 5 degrees and about 85 degrees, preferably between about of about 20 degrees and 60 degrees, and in one embodiment, about 30 degrees, and radius  176  may be between about 0.05 and about 0.75, preferably between about 0.075 and about 0.5, and in one embodiment, about 0.06. Also, length  180  may be between about 0.1″ and about 1″, preferably between about 0.2″ and about 0.75″, and in one embodiment, about 0.25″. In one embodiment, length  180  is about ¼″. 
     Moreover, in one embodiment, portions  106 ,  108  and  110  generally form an s-shape. The s-shape may extend between portions  104  and portions  112 . Also, a distance  192  may be defined between a portion  100  and a portion  106 . Distance  192  may be between about 0.25″ and about 1.5″, preferably between about 0.5″, and about 1″ and in one embodiment, about 0.9″. 
     Further, in one embodiment, a distance  193  may be defined between portion  100  and clip end  117 . In one embodiment, distance  193  is less than distance  192 . Further, distance  193  may be less than width  200 . 
     Continuing with  FIG. 5A , leading portion  112  may be configured to facilitate leading and/or guiding a portion of clip  20  to engage ring  26  and further may prevent portion  112  from getting caught on edge  33  of ring  26 . In one embodiment, leading portion  112  extends upwardly and inwardly via a radius  182  with respect to part  178  of spacing portion  110 . Portion  112  further may have a straight part  184  with a length  186 . Radius  182  may be between about 0.05 and about 0.75, preferably between about 0.1 and about 0.5. Length  186  may be between about 0.1″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.1″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.4″. In one embodiment, length  186  is about ⅜″. 
     Additionally, a plurality of washers or nuts  188  may be configured to couple to spring clip  20 , such that each washer  188  may be configured to facilitate coupling bolts  22  to clip  20 , such that each washer  188  further may facilitate engaging threads of bolts  22 . In one embodiment, three washers  188  are coupled to spring clip  20 , wherein a first washer is coupled to portion  102 , and a second and third washer are each coupled to portion  100 . Each washer  188  may include an opening  194  that may be generally sized to be about the same size, i.e., have the same diameter, as openings  134  and/or opening  144 . In one embodiment, at least one opening  194  is configured to be aligned and/or concentric with at least one opening  134  and/or at least one opening  144 . 
     Each washer  188  may include a coupling surface  196  and at least one flap portion  198  coupled thereto. In one embodiment, coupling surface  196  is configured to couple to a portion of exterior surface  116  of clip  20  and the at least one flap portion  198  is configured to couple to a portion of interior surface  114  of clip  20  and/or at least one edge, such as an edge  120  or  122 , of clip  20 . 
     Moreover, clip  20  may have an overall width  200 . Width  200  may be defined between portion  110  and portion  100 . In one embodiment, width  200  is between about 0.5″ and about 6″, preferably between about 1″ and about 3″, and in one embodiment, about 1.3″. Also, in one embodiment, width  200  of spring clip  20  is greater than length  59  of retainer clip  18 , such that when clip  20  is coupled between ring  26  and can  12 , clip  20  may be compressed between ring  26  and can  12 . 
     In one embodiment, clip end  117  may extend inward of portion  106 . Additionally, a height  202  may be defined between clip end  115  and clip end  117 , wherein end  117  is upward of end  115 . Height  202  may be between about 0.25″ and about 2″, preferably between about 0.5″ and about 1″, and in one embodiment, about 0.75″. 
     Generally, clip  20  may be about 1.32″ long and may have an engaging portion on each end, such as can engaging portion  100  and a guiding portion  208 . Guiding portion  208  may include portions  110  and  112 . Guiding portion  208  may be configured to guide clip  20 , such that when coupling clip  20  to can  12  and ring  26 , portions  108 ,  110 , and  112  do not get caught beneath ring  26 . In one embodiment, guiding portion  208  is positioned upward of portion  100 . Additionally, guiding portion  208  may also be configured to facilitate removal of clip  20 , such that a user may press inwardly on guiding portion  208  to disengage portions  106  and  108  from ring  26 . 
     1.4 Plurality of Bolts, Screws or Coupling Mechanisms  22   
     Turning to  FIG. 2 , system  10  may further include a plurality of coupling mechanisms. In one embodiment, bolts  22  configured to couple portion of system  10  together. Each bolt  22  may include a threading portion  21  and bolthead  23 . In one embodiment, a bolt  22  having a first length is configured to couple portion  62  to portion  102 , and at least two bolts  22  having a second length are configured to couple portion  100  to can  12 . In one embodiment, first length is less than second length. Alternatively, first length may be substantially the same as or greater than the second length. 
     1.5 Trim Ring  16   
     Turning to  FIGS. 7A-7C , system  10  also may include a trim ring  16 . Trim ring  16  may include a trim portion  210  and a flange portion  212  and an opening  213  therein. In one embodiment, trim portion  210  is configured to couple proximate to retainer clip  18  and ceiling panel  8 , and flange portion  212  is configured to couple proximate to lamp  14 . Moreover, in one embodiment, trim ring  16  is fabricated from #18 galvanized sheet steel in a 0.0478 thickness. Trim ring  16  may be fabricated from a material that can withstand a high heat without deformation. Alternatively, trim ring  16  may be fabricated from any type of sheet steel, metal, aluminum, and/or plastic material. Additionally, trim ring  16  may include a powder coat paint on it to match the color of ceiling panel  8 . For example, the paint may be a white satin. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7A , trim portion  210  may include an interior surface  222  and an exterior surface  224 , and an inner diameter  226  and an outer diameter  228 . In one embodiment, interior surface  222  is configured to couple to a portion of retainer clip  18 , and exterior surface  226  is configured to provide a decorative element to hide the clips and connections between can  12  and ring  28 . Diameter  226  may be sized such that diameter  226  may be greater than a diameter of a lamp  14 , and diameter  228  may be sized such that diameter  228  may be greater than diameter of ring  26  and/or a diameter  231  of an existing ceiling opening  230 . Diameter  226  may be between about 1″ and about 10″, preferably between about 3″ and about 8″, and in one embodiment, about 4.8″. Diameter  228  may be between about 1.5″ and about 20″, preferably between about 5″ and about 10″, and in one embodiment, about 9.5″. Diameter  231  may be between about 3″ and about 20″, preferably between about 6″ and about 15″, and in one embodiment, about 8.25″. 
     As shown in  FIG. 7C , flange portion  212  may facilitate coupling trim ring  16  to can  12 . In one embodiment, flange portion  212  is substantially normal via a radius  215  to trim portion  210  and extends upward therefrom. Flange portion  212  may include an interior surface  214  and an exterior surface  216 , and a diameter  218  having a height  220 , and at least one opening  232  therein. Surfaces  214  and  216  may be configured to be coupled proximate lamp  14 . Diameter  218  may be between about 1″ and about 10″, preferably between about 3″ and about 8″, and in one embodiment, about 4.8″. In one embodiment, diameters  218  are diameter  226  are generally the same size. Radius  215  may be between about 0.01 and about 0.5, preferably between about 0.025 and about 0.3, and in one embodiment, about 0.05. 
     In one embodiment, flange portion  212  includes two openings  232 , wherein each opening  232  is diametrically opposite the other. Moreover, each opening  232  may be configured to engage at least one mounting mechanism  24 . As shown in  FIG. 7C , opening  232  may have a diameter  233 , wherein diameter  233  may be about 0.110″. Alternatively, flange portion  212  may have any number of openings  232 , and diameter  233  may be any suitable size. 
     1.6 Mounting Mechanism  24   
     Turning to  FIG. 4 , system  10  further may include a plurality of mounting mechanisms or springs  24 . Each mounting spring  24  is configured to facilitate coupling trim ring  16  to can  12 , such that trim ring  16  may cover the space between can  12  and the existing opening in ceiling panel  8 . Each mounting spring  24  may include at least one hook portion  234  and a spring portion  236  coupled thereto. In one embodiment, spring portion  236  may include two hook portions  234 , one on a first end of spring portion  236  and another on a second end of spring portion  236 . Each hook portion  234  is configured to extend substantially between ring  16  and can  12 . In one embodiment, a first hook is configured to engage opening  54  in can  12  and a second hook is configured to engage opening  232  in trim ring  16 . Alternatively, mounting springs  24  may be a spring clip or a scissor clip. 
     Mechanisms  24  are configured to enable trim ring  16  to be able to shift and/or moved into a position that may sufficiently cover and/or hide the opening between lighting can  12  and the existing ceiling opening. 
     2. Assembly with System  10   
     System  10  may be assembled and/or installed through a plurality of steps. Before retrofitting an existing lighting system with a replacement lighting system, the existing lighting system needs to be removed. Preferably, the existing lighting system is removed downward through an opening  238  in ceiling panel  8 . In one embodiment, existing fixture ceiling ring  26  from existing lighting system remains coupled above ceiling panel  8 . 
     In one embodiment, system  10  is at least partially assembled prior to insertion into the ceiling. For example, system  10  may be assembled on the ground rather than assembled in the ceiling. Alternatively, system  10  may be assembled in the ceiling. 
     To assemble system  10 , any number of clips  20  may be coupled to can  12 . In one embodiment, four clips  20  are coupled to exterior surface  46  of can  12 . In one embodiment, exterior surface  116  of each clip  20 , including at least one washer  188 , is coupled to exterior surface  46  of can  12 . When each clip  20  is proximate can  12 , at least one bolt  22  may be inserted through openings  43  and  134 . The at least one bolthead  23  may be proximate interior surface  44  of can  12 . Bolt  12  may then be tightened to facilitate anchoring and/or coupling spring clip  20  to can  12 . 
     Each clip  20  may have a retainer clip  18  configured to couple thereto. As shown in  FIG. 2 , at least one clip  18  may be coupled to at least one clip  20 . In one embodiment, interior surface  49  of clip  18  is positioned proximate to exterior surface  116  of portion  102  of clip  20 . Also, in one embodiment, at least one opening  82  may be aligned with at least one opening  144  such that the openings are concentric. Additionally, in one embodiment, end  45  of clip  18  is proximate portion  100 , and end  47  of clip  18  is proximate portion  104 . At least one bolt  22  may be inserted through the at least one opening  82  in clip  18  and through the at least one opening  144  and/or washer  188  in clip  20 , such that bolthead  23  may engage exterior surface  51  of portion  62  of clip  18 . When coupling clip  18  to clip  20 , a distance  240  may be positioned between portions  62  and  102 . Additionally, when clip  18  is assembled to clip  20  prior to insertion of can  12  into the ceiling, clip  18  should remain loose and/or rotatable around bolt  22 , such that bolt  22  may be tightened later to retain clip  18  in an engaged position. Alternatively, clips  18  and clips  20  may be coupled together after can  12  is inserted into ceiling panel  8 . In the alternative, when clip  18  is coupled to clip  20  when can  12  is already inserted into the ceiling, clip  18  should not remain loose with respect to clip  20 . 
     Prior to inserting can  12  into ceiling panel  8 , power cord  28  may be coupled to a power source. Alternatively, power cord  28  may be coupled to a power source subsequent to inserting can  12  into ceiling panel  8 . In one embodiment, a plate and a socket (not shown) is coupled to interior surface  44  of can  12  prior to inserting can  12  into ceiling panel  8 . 
     Can  12  may be inserted into ceiling and/or ceiling panel  8  by inserting can  12  through opening  230 . In one embodiment, can  12  is inserted upward such that end  40  enters through opening  230  prior to sidewall  38  entering opening  230 . As can  12  is inserted upward, clips  20  may facilitate guiding can  12  into an engaged position, because as clips  20 , specifically leading portion  112  and end  117 , are pushed upward, leading portion  112  may contact edge  33  of ring  26 , and portions  110  and  112  are pushed inward, such that portions  110  and  112  may slide upward past edge  33  of ring  26 . 
     In one embodiment, can  12  is inserted upward until first end  39  is generally co-planar with second end of ring  33  and/or until clip  20  engages ring  26 . When at least one clip  20  is coupled between ring  26  and can  12 , clip  20  may be compressed between ring  26  and can  12  in an engaged position. In the engaged position, portion  106  may engage interior surface of ring  26  and portion  108  may engage exterior surface  25  of ring  26 , and a portion of clip  20  may also engage top edge  31  of ring  26 . 
     Each retainer clip  18 , coupled proximate each engaged clip  20 , may then be rotated around bolt  22  to a desired position. In one embodiment, each clip  18  may be rotated until end  45  is proximate interior surface  44  of can  12  and until end  47  is proximate exterior surface  25  of ring  26 . Bolt  22  may then be tightened to secure can  12  to ring  26 . As bolt  22  is tightened, distance  240  between surfaces  62  and  102  may decrease. 
     Once each clip  18  and each clip  20  are secured in an engaged position around can  12 , a trim ring  16  may be coupled to can  12  to cover clips  18  and  20 . In one embodiment, trim ring  16  includes two diametrically opposite openings  232  that are configured to receive a portion of mechanisms  24  therein. In one embodiment, to couple trim ring  16  to can  12 , at least one end of mounting mechanism  24  is coupled to opening  54  and the other end of mounting mechanism is coupled to opening  232 . Trim ring  16  may then be shifted and/or moved to sufficiently cover and/or hide the opening between lighting can  12  and the existing ceiling opening. 
     Moreover, clips  18  and  20  may easily be removed. In one embodiment, a user may remove trim ring  16 , loosen bolt  22  inserted into both clips  18  and  20 , reach upward between can  12  and the existing ceiling opening, apply pressure to at least portion  112  of each clip  20  to release each clip  20  from ring  26 , and pull can  12  downward through ceiling panel  8 . 
     3. Can System  300   
     Turning to at least  FIGS. 8-11 , a lighting can system  300  for retrofitting or replacing a portion of an existing can system is described. System  300  may include a plate  302  and a socket  304  to facilitate coupling a lamp  14  within a lighting can  306 , and further may include a plurality of couplings  308  and a plurality of bolts or screws  310 . Lamp  14  may be configured to couple to the socket, wherein the socket holds lamp  14  within lighting can  306 . Plate  302  and socket  304  also may include a plurality of wires coupled thereto, wherein the wires may be coupled to the power source to facilitate powering lamp  14 . 
     3.1 Can  306   
     Turning to  FIG. 8 , in one embodiment, can  306  may be configured to be installed into a ceiling with a ceiling panel  8 , wherein can  306  is inserted upwards into the ceiling, and wherein can  306  may slide in and out of the ceiling. In one embodiment, can  306  is a single unitary part, as shown in  FIG. 8 . Can  306  may be an existing  8 ″ compact florescent can reflector. Alternatively, can  306  may have any shape and size. In one embodiment, can  306  has a sidewall  312  and an end  313 . 
     Continuing with  FIG. 8 , can  306  may have a height  316  between a first end  320  and a second end  322  and a varying diameter  318 . Can  306  may include an interior surface  324  and an exterior surface  326 . Can  306  further may include an opening (not shown) therein, such that wiring leads  328  extend through the opening. 
     Additionally, can  306  may include a plurality of openings  330  therein, such that each opening  330  may be configured to receive at least a portion of a coupling  308 . Opening  330  may have a diameter  332 . 
     Further, can  306  may include a plurality of openings  334 . Each opening  334  may be beneath each opening  330 . Each opening  334  may have a diameter  336  configured to receive a screw or bolt  310  therein. 
     3.2 Plate  302  and Socket  304   
     Turning to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , can  306  may be configured to receive plate  302  and socket  304 . Plate  302  and socket  304  may facilitate coupling lamp  14  within lighting can  306 . Lamp  14  may be configured to couple to the socket, wherein the socket holds lamp  14  within lighting can  306 . 
     Plate  302  may have an interior surface  339  and an exterior surface  341 . Plate  302  is configured to be positioned a distance  340  from end  322 . Distance  340  may be less than distance  316 . Plate  302  may be generally round. In one embodiment, shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10 , plate  302  has a plurality of segments  342 , wherein opposing segments  344  are generally straight and are separated by segments  346  that generally curved. In addition, in one embodiment, an indentation  348  may be defined within at least one segment  346 . In one embodiment, each segment  344  facilitates coupling plate  303  to can  306 . Further, plate  302  may include openings  345 , wherein each opening  345  may receive at least one screw  310  therein. 
     Socket  304  may be coupled to plate  302  and may be configured to engage lamp  14 . In one embodiment, socket  304  is generally round and may be an Edison socket. 
     3.3 Couplings  308   
     Continuing with  FIGS. 9 and 10 , system  300  may further include a plurality of couplings  308 . Each coupling  308  may include an interior surface  353  and an exterior surface  355 . Each coupling  308  further may include a first portion  354  and a second portion  356 . First portion  354  may be generally normal to second portion  356  via a bend  358  and further second portion  356  may extend downward from first portion  354 . In one embodiment, interior surface  353  of each coupling  308  is configured to couple to exterior surface  341  of plate  302 , wherein at least one coupling  308  is proximate each segment  344 . Additionally, in one embodiment, at least a portion of first portion  354  of coupling  308  extends outward from plate  302  and second portion  356  extends downward therefrom, such that each second portion  356  is configured to engage exterior surface  326  of can  306 . 
     Moreover, as shown in  FIG. 8 , each portion  354  and  356  may include at least one opening  360  therein. Each opening  360  may be configured to receive a screw  310 . 
     3.4 Screws  310   
     Continuing with  FIG. 8 , system  300  further includes a plurality of screws  310 . Each screw  310  may include a head  350  and a body  352 . Additionally, each screw  310  may be configured to receive a nut  311 . 
     4. Assembly with System  300   
     To retrofit an existing compact fluorescent ceiling can fixture with system  300 , the power may first be turned off to the existing fixture. The bulb from the existing fixture may be removed. The can of the existing fixture may be removed from the ceiling. A plurality of wires may be cut that run to the existing compact fluorescent lamp socket. The existing fixture junction box that supports the compact fluorescent ballast may be located. The power wires from the ballast may be disconnected. The plurality of wires from the output of the ballast may be removed. A plurality of the wires from the existing light socket may be connected to socket  304  that may be mounted to plate  302 . 
     At least one coupling  308  may be coupled to plate  302 . In one embodiment, two screws  310  are coupled to first portion  354  of coupling  308 , wherein each screw  310  facilitates coupling portion  354  of coupling  308  to plate  302 . Moreover, in one embodiment, first portion  354  is positioned a distance  351  from socket  304 . 
     In one embodiment, coupling  308  is coupled to plate  302  by aligning at least one opening  360  with at least one opening  345 , such that openings  345  and  360  are concentric. At least one screw  310  then may be inserted into openings  345  and  360 , wherein head  350  may engage interior surface  339  of plate  302 , and further wherein a nut  311  may engage body  352  of screw  310  and further may engage exterior surface  355 . Nut  311  may be configured to engage exterior surface  355  of coupling  308 . 
     Plate  302  with at least one coupling  308  may be coupled to can  306 . In one embodiment, plate  302  is inserted proximate interior surface  324  of can  306  on an angle. Coupling  308  may then be inserted through opening  330 , preferably from interior surface  324  to exterior surface  326 . 
     Plate  302  may be moved until second portion  356  of portion  308  engages can  306 . In one embodiment, interior surface  353  is configured to engage exterior surface  326  of can  306 . Plate  302  may further be moved until at least one opening  334  is aligned with at least one opening  360 , such that openings  334  and  360  are concentric. At least one screw  310  then may be inserted into openings  334  and  360 . In one embodiment, head  350  may engage exterior surface of portion  356 . A nut  311  may be configured to engage body  352  of screw  310  and may couple to interior surface  324  of can  306 . Each screw  310  is then tightened to facilitate coupling plate  302  to can  306 . 
     Once plate  302  is coupled to can  306 , can  306  may be inserted into the ceiling, and lamp  14  may be coupled within socket  304 . The power then may be turned on to test lamp  14 . 
     While the foregoing written description of the invention enables one of ordinary skill to make and use what is considered presently to be the best mode thereof, those of ordinary skill will understand and appreciate the existence of variations, combinations, and equivalents of the specific exemplary embodiment and method herein. The invention should therefore not be limited by the above described embodiment and method, but by all embodiments and methods within the scope and spirit of the invention as claimed.