Patent Publication Number: US-9897291-B2

Title: Light fixture joint with notched edge and methods incorporating the same

Description:
BACKGROUND 
     1. Technical Field 
     This disclosure relates to systems, methods, and apparatus for providing illumination. 
     2. Relevant Art 
     Recent trends in building design involve using one or more sets of decorative panels to add to the functional and/or aesthetic characteristics of a given structure or design space. In particular, the use of polymeric panels is becoming increasingly popular in lighting applications. Such polymeric materials may be manufactured to be more resilient and to have a similar transparent, translucent, or decorative appearance as cast or laminated glass, but with less cost. In addition, polymer-based materials tend to be more versatile or manipulatable in terms of manufacture and assembly as they can be relatively easily bent, molded, colored, textured, shaped, gauged, cut, and otherwise modified in a variety of different ways and can provide a larger variety of colors, images, interlayers, shapes, and impact resistance than can glass. 
     Certain polymer-based lighting applications involve the coupling of polymeric sheet material, or panels, to form a lighting structure. The panels can be curved (or rounded), angled, or linear, depending on the design of the lighting structure. Some applications involve coupling multiple smaller polymer-based lighting modules to form a larger modular lighting assembly. Modules and modular assemblies may also be formed of connected polymeric panels. One drawback to such connection systems includes the unsightly gap or seam between two panels or lighting modules at the site of coupling, especially at edges of the lighting fixture, as well as shadows, dark spots, and/or other unsightly byproducts or consequences of the design, manufacturing, and/or assembling process(es). Seams and/or features of this sort may detract from the aesthetic appeal of the lighting element. Furthermore, modular lighting concepts often include connective and other support or mounting hardware that is visible and aesthetically unappealing. 
     Accordingly, there are a number of limitations and/or disadvantages in polymer-based lighting fixtures that can be addressed. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     Implementations of the present disclosure solve one or more of the foregoing or other problems in the art with systems, methods, and apparatus for improving the modularity and/or connectivity of various light fixture sub-components, all the while reducing and/or with reduced visibility of various features, components, and/or connection point(s) therebetween. For example, one or more implementations of the present disclosure include systems, methods, and apparatus for reduced and/or reducing visibility of seams and/or hardware of resin-based lighting fixtures. Certain implementations include connection details that present a straight or linear butt seam at or adjacent to one or more ends or edges of a panel connection interface, and optionally transition into a rounded or curved tucked seam further away or distant from the end(s) or edge(s). Such a configuration can reduce the visibility of the tucked seam from a vantage point that positions the butt seam in front of the tucked seam. 
     Additional features and advantages of exemplary implementations of the present disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations. The features and advantages of such implementations may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations as set forth hereinafter. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and features of the disclosure can be obtained, a more particular description of the disclosure briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific implementations thereof, which implementations are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical implementations of the disclosure and are not, therefore, to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the disclosure will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1A  illustrates a top perspective view of a light fixture assembly in accordance with an implementation of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 1B  illustrates a bottom perspective view of the light fixture assembly of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 1C  illustrates a bottom plan view of the light fixture assembly of  FIG. 1A ; 
         FIG. 2A  illustrates a top perspective view of a drum useful in forming a light fixture assembly in accordance with another implementation of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 2B  illustrates a detailed view of a portion of the drum of  FIG. 2A ; 
         FIG. 2C  illustrates a front elevation view of another portion of the drum of  FIG. 2A ; 
         FIG. 2D  illustrates a top plan view of the portion illustrated in  FIG. 2C ; 
         FIG. 3A  illustrates a rear elevation view of a panel useful in forming a drum in accordance with another implementation of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 3B  illustrates a bottom plan view of the panel of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 3C  illustrates a detailed view of a portion of the panel of  FIG. 3A ; 
         FIG. 4A  illustrates a bottom plan view of a panel useful in forming a drum in accordance with still another implementation of the present disclosure; 
         FIG. 4B  illustrates a rear elevation view of the panel of  FIG. 4A ; 
         FIG. 4C  illustrates a detailed view of a portion of the panel of  FIG. 4B ; 
         FIG. 5A  illustrates a bottom plan view of a panel useful in forming a drum in accordance with yet another implementation of the present disclosure; and 
         FIG. 5B  illustrates a detailed view of a portion of the panel of  FIG. 5A . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Implementations of the present disclosure solve one or more of the foregoing or other problems in the art with systems, methods, and apparatus for improving the modularity and/or connectivity of various light fixture sub-components, all the while reducing and/or with reduced visibility of various features, components, and/or connection point(s) therebetween. For example, one or more implementations of the present disclosure include systems, methods, and apparatus for reduced and/or reducing visibility of seams and/or hardware of resin-based lighting fixtures. Certain implementations include connection details that present a straight or linear butt seam at or adjacent to one or more ends or edges of a panel connection interface, and optionally transition into a rounded or curved tucked seam further away or distant from the end(s) or edge(s). Such a configuration can reduce the visibility of the tucked seam from a vantage point that positions the butt seam in front of the tucked seam. 
     Before describing the present disclosure in further detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the description of the particularly exemplified systems, methods, and/or products that may vary from one implementation to the next. Thus, while certain implementations of the present disclosure will be described in detail, with reference to specific configurations, parameters, features (e.g., components, members, elements, parts, and/or portions), etc., the descriptions are illustrative and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention. In addition, the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing the implementations, and is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the claimed invention. 
     Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. 
     Various aspects of the present disclosure, including systems, processes, and/or products may be illustrated with reference to one or more implementations or embodiments, which are exemplary in nature. As used herein, the terms “embodiment” and “implementation” mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration, and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects disclosed herein. In addition, reference to an “implementation” of the present disclosure or invention includes a specific reference to one or more embodiments thereof, and vice versa, and is intended to provide illustrative examples without limiting the scope of the invention, which is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the following description. 
     As used herein, the term “systems” also contemplates devices, apparatus, compositions, assemblies, kits, and so forth. Similarly, the term “method” also contemplates processes, procedures, steps, and so forth. Moreover, the term “products” also contemplates devices, apparatus, compositions, assemblies, kits, and so forth. 
     As used throughout this application the words “can” and “may” are used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Additionally, the terms “including,” “having,” “involving,” “containing,” “characterized by,” as well as variants thereof (e.g., “includes,” “has,” and “involves,” “contains,” etc.), and similar terms as used herein, including the claims, shall be inclusive and/or open-ended, shall have the same meaning as the word “comprising” and variants thereof (e.g., “comprise” and “comprises”), and do not exclude additional, un-recited elements or method steps, illustratively. 
     It will be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a “seam” includes one, two, or more seams. Similarly, reference to a plurality of referents should be interpreted as comprising a single referent and/or a plurality of referents unless the content and/or context clearly dictate otherwise. Thus, reference to “seams” does not necessarily require a plurality of such seams. Instead, it will be appreciated that independent of conjugation; one or more seams are contemplated herein. 
     As used herein, directional, positional, and/or orientational terms, such as “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “internal,” “external,” “interior,” “exterior,” “proximal,” “distal” and so forth can be used arbitrarily and/or solely to indicate relative directions, positions, and/or orientations and may not be otherwise intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, including the specification, drawings, and/or claims. 
     Various aspects of the present disclosure can be illustrated by describing components that are bound, coupled, attached, connected, and/or joined together. As used herein, the terms “bound,” “coupled”, “attached”, “connected,” and/or “joined” are used to indicate either a direct association between two components or, where appropriate, an indirect association with one another through intervening or intermediate components. In contrast, when a component is referred to as being “directly bound,” “directly coupled”, “directly attached”, “directly connected,” and/or “directly joined” to another component, no intervening elements are present or contemplated. 
     To facilitate understanding, like references (i.e., like naming of components and/or elements) have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures. Specifically, in the exemplary implementations illustrated in the figures, like structures, or structures with like functions, will be provided with similar reference designations, where possible. Specific language will be used herein to describe the exemplary implementations. Nevertheless it will be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Rather, it is to be understood that the language used to describe the exemplary implementations is illustrative only and is not to be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure (unless such language is expressly described herein as essential). 
     It will also be appreciated that where multiple possibilities of values or a range of values (e.g., less than, greater than, at least, and/or up to a certain value, and/or between two recited values) is disclosed or recited, any specific value or range of values falling within the disclosed range of values is likewise disclosed and contemplated herein. Thus, disclosure of an illustrative measurement or amount less than or equal to about 10 units or between 0 and 10 units includes, illustratively, a specific disclosure of: (i) a measurement or amount of 9 units, 5 units, 1 units, or any other value between 0 and 10 units, including 0 units and/or 10 units; and/or (ii) a measurement or amount between 9 units and 1 units, between 8 units and 2 units, between 6 units and 4 units, and/or any other range of values between 0 and 10 units. 
     The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. 
     Low-profile light fixture joints can reduce the appearance of a seam between joined ends of one or more polymeric panels at a connection interface. The joint can be formed between a first end of a polymeric panel and a second end of the same or a separate polymeric panel. The first and second ends can each have an upper edge portion, a lower edge portion opposite the upper edge portion, a flange extending between the upper edge portion and the lower edge portion, and a notch disposed between the flange and one or more of the lower edge portion or the upper edge portion. 
     The notch can enable the flange to be bent relative to the upper and/or lower edge portions, such that the flange presents a rounded edge at the connection interface, and such that the joined rounded edges form a tucked seam at the connection interface, while the upper and/or lower edge portions remain substantially straight (e.g., unbent, unrounded, uncurved, etc.), such that the upper and/or lower edge portions present a straight edge at the connection interface, and such that the joined straight edges form a butt seam at the connection interface. 
     Accordingly, the joint can comprise a linear or straight adjoining butt seam at or adjacent to the lower and/or upper edges of a panel connection interface, that transitions into a rounded or curved tucked seam further away or distant from the lower and/or upper edges. Thus, hanging or suspended light fixtures incorporating such joint(s) can display a tight-fitting, straight edged, butt seam from directly below the connection interface. Similarly, floor or structure mounted light fixtures incorporating such joint(s) can display a tight-fitting, straight edged, butt seam from directly above the connection interface. The butt seam(s) can reduce the visibility of the tucked seam from above and/or below the light fixture (e.g., when the butt seam is disposed in front of the tucked seam). 
     As used herein, the terms “polymeric panel,” “polymer material,” and the like refer to a panel, film, sheet, or other element comprising a substrate of one or more layers formed from one or more thermoplastic polymers (or alloys thereof). Specifically, such materials can include, but are not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene terephthalate with glycol-modification (PETG), acrylonitrile butadiene-styrene (ABS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polycarbonate (PC), styrene, polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyolefins (low and high density polyethylene, polypropylene), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), cellulose-based polymers (cellulose acetate, cellulose butyrate or cellulose propionate), acrylics, or the like. 
     As used herein, the term “connection interface” and similar terms refer to a point, area, or plane at which (the surface of) one component is connected (e.g., brought together, joined, etc.) with (the surface of) another component. Such components can include separate pieces or separate portions of the same piece. 
     As used herein, the terms “butt seam,” “straight seam,” and the like refer to the distinction or gap between to edges or surfaces that terminate in a joinder at a connection interface. Such seams, when formed tightly, often have the appearance of a fine line between the two edges or surfaces. 
     Certain implementations of the present disclosure include a low-profile light fixture joint comprising a first end of a polymeric panel joined with a second end of the same or a separate polymeric panel at a connection interface. The first end and the second end each comprise an upper edge portion (e.g., adjacent to a top edge of the panel), a lower edge portion opposite the upper edge portion (e.g., adjacent to a bottom edge of the panel), and a flange extending between the upper edge portion and the lower edge portion. The flange of the first end can be secured to the flange of the second end with one or more fasteners, such as an adhesive or attachment hardware. Alternatively, the flanges can be bent so as to produce opposing forces on adjacent panels, such that the opposing forces of a first joint stabilize and/or secure a second (opposing) joint, and vice versa. 
     The lower edge portion of the first end and the lower edge portion of the second end each present a substantially straight edge at the connection interface. In particular, polymeric panels comprise a sheet material having a front surface and an opposing back surface. The respective lower edge portions can each have a substantially straight, linear, or blunt edge extending between the front and back surfaces. The straight edge of the lower edge portion of the first end contacts the straight edge of the lower edge portion of the second end to form a butt seam at the connection interface. 
     The flange of the first end and the flange of the second end, on the other hand, each present a rounded edge at the connection interface. For instance, a flange can extend from a panel (e.g., from a middle edge disposed between the upper and lower edge portions) beyond the terminal end of the edge portions. Accordingly, for the respective upper edge portions to be joined in at the connection interface so as to form a butt seam, the flanges may need to be moved (e.g., bent) so as to present or form a rounded corner that is substantially aligned with the blunt, terminal end of the edge portions. The rounded corner (or edge) of the flange of the first end and the rounded corner (or edge) of the flange of the second end form a tucked seam at the connection interface (like the inseam of a pant). 
     In certain implementations, the flange can be bent to an angle (e.g., (slightly) less than 90°) relative to the edge portions or (e.g., (slightly) more than 90°) relative to the inner surface of the panel. Accordingly, in a multi-panel configuration, the joined flanges can produce opposing forces that, when translated along the length of the panels, presses an opposing joint together at an opposing interface. The force can be sufficient to produce a tight seam between the opposing edge portions, such that the butt seam is substantially devoid of a perceivable gap between the blunt, terminal end of the edge portions. 
     Some implementations further include a notch disposed or formed between the flange and at least the lower edge portion of each panel. The notch can comprise a cut, a nick, or a break between the flange and the lower (and/or upper) edge portion of the respective panels. The notch can be sized so as to be substantially invisible or unperceivable from the side opposite the tucked flanges. In certain implementations, the notch relieves tension, stress, or other force between the bent flange and the substantially straight edge portion(s). For instance, the notch can enable the lower and/or upper edge portion to retain the respective straight edges (or butt seam) at the connection interface while the respective flanges present the respective rounded edges (or tucked seam) at the connection interface. 
     The flange(s) can also have a tapered or recessed top edge and/or a tapered or recessed bottom edge extending away from the notch and/or corresponding edge portion at a suitable angle (e.g., 45°). The tapered or recessed edge(s) or angle thereof can be structurally adapted or configured to reduce or substantially prevent shadowing on portion(s) of the polymeric panel(s) (e.g., upper and/or lower edge portion(s)) or other light fixture component(s), while maintaining sufficient flange material at the tapered or recessed edge portion to provide structural stability. 
     The first end and the second end can be opposing ends of the same panel or respective ends of separate panels, depending upon the specific implementation. The joint can be incorporated into a light fixture comprised of a drum having an encircling sidewall comprising one or more polymeric panels. First and second ends of the encircling sidewall can be joined together at a connection interface that includes the low-profile joint. In addition, a method of forming a low-profile light fixture joint can include joining the first and second ends of the encircling sidewall (i.e., of one or more polymeric panels) at the connection interface. The method can also include securing the flange of the first end and the flange of the second end together by means of one or more fasteners and/or forming the first and/or second end by bending the flange thereof relative to the lower and/or upper edge portion thereof while maintaining the lower and/or upper edge portion in a substantially unbent (or less bent) configuration. 
     Turning now to the figures,  FIGS. 1A-1B  illustrate, respectively, top and bottom perspective views of a light fixture assembly  10  accordingly to an implementation of the present disclosure. Light fixture assembly  10  comprises a light fixture  12 , an optional mounting mechanism  14  connected to light fixture  12 , and an optional power cord  13  extending from light fixture  12 . 
     As illustrated in the depicted embodiment, light fixture  12  comprises an outer display element  20  and an inner drum  30  to which outer display element  20  is connected by means of one or more connection components  22 . In the depicted embodiment, both display element  20  and drum  30  have rounded and/or circular configurations. It will be appreciated, however, that display element  20  and/or drum  30  can also have oval, rectangular, square, or any other geometric, curves, or other shape or configuration. 
     Display element  20  can comprise one or more panels  21  formed of a polymeric or other material. The panels  21  can have a sheet configuration and can be opaque or non-opaque (i.e., translucent or transparent). Connection components  22  can connect display element  20  to drum  30  by any suitable mechanism. For instance, connection components  22  can comprise fasteners, such as mounting hardware (e.g., screws, bolts, nuts, anchors, rivets, etc.) and/or adhesives (glue, epoxy, tape, etc.). In the depicted embodiment, a connection component  22  comprises mounting hardware that extends into an opening  24  in display element  20  and a corresponding opening  25  in drum  30  (or sidewall  32  thereof). Alternatively, panel  21  can be thermoformed, pressure fit, or otherwise connected to drum  30 . In at least one implementation, panel  21  can be independently suspended about drum  30  (e.g., without being connected thereto). 
     Inner drum  30  comprises an encircling sidewall  32 , an optional lower diffuser  34  connected to (e.g., secured within) a lower edge  33  of sidewall  32 , and an optional upper diffuser  19  connected to (e.g., secured within) an upper edge  35  of sidewall  32 . In some implementations, lower diffuser  34  and/or upper diffuser  19  can be comprised of polymeric material, such as an acrylic. Lower diffuser  34  and/or upper diffuser  19  can be connected to (e.g., secured within) sidewall  32  by means of one or more fasteners  39 , such as an adhesive, or can be thermoformed thereto. The fastener can also secure sidewall  32  in a circular or other configuration (e.g., without additional fastening hardware or adhesives. Alternatively, sidewall  32  can be wrapped around lower diffuser  34  and/or upper diffuser  19 , such that lower diffuser  34  and/or upper diffuser  19  are retained by sidewall  32  by means of friction and/or a pressure fit. 
     As further illustrated in the depicted embodiment, light fixture  12  can be configured for suspension from a ceiling or other structure in certain implementations by means of mounting mechanism  14 . Mounting mechanism  14  includes a plurality of mounting cables  16  having support structure fasteners  17  disposed at one end thereof and light fixture fasteners  18  disposed at the opposite end thereof. Fasteners  18  are attached to upper diffuser  19 , which is connected and/or secured to drum  30  and/or sidewall  32 , or portion thereof. Upper diffuser  19  can also be secured to a lid  36  by means of one or more fasteners  38  (e.g., extending through aligned openings in each of lid  36  and upper diffuser  19 ). Alternatively, fasteners  18  can be secured directly to a portion of drum  30 , lid  36  upper diffuser  19 , and/or sidewall  32 . 
     In certain implementations, lid  36  can comprise a lighting lid. For instance, lid  36  can be comprised of powder-coated aluminum or other suitable material and can have one or more lighting elements (not shown) connected to the under surface thereof. Power cord  13  can supply electrical power to the lighting elements to illuminate light fixture  12  (or drum  30  thereof) and/or assembly  10 . Such lighting elements can comprise incandescent bulbs, LED, or any other suitable means for providing illumination. 
     Those skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that the present disclosure is not limited to suspended light fixtures. Rather, certain implementations of the present disclosure can include wall-, floor-, pillar-, or other structure-mounted and/or free-standing light fixtures. Accordingly, alternative mounting mechanisms can connect light fixture  12  to any suitable support structure. 
     As discussed in further detail below,  FIG. 1C  illustrates a bottom plan view of light fixture assembly  10 . 
       FIG. 2A  illustrates a drum  30  comprising encircling sidewall  32 , which bounds an interior space  31 . Encircling sidewall  32  comprises and/or is formed of a plurality of panels  40 . Specifically, encircling sidewall  32  comprises a first panel  40   a , a second panel  40   b , and a third panel  40   c  connected one to another (in a substantially circular configuration) at a plurality of connection interfaces  80 . For instance, a first end  42  of panel  40   a  can be connected to a second end  44  of panel  40   b  at a first connection interfaces  80   a , a first end  46  of panel  40   b  connected to a second end  48  of panel  40   c  at a second connection interfaces  80   b , and a first end  50  of panel  40   c  connected to a second end  52  of panel  40   a  at a third connection interfaces  80   c.    
     Each panel  40  has a curved configuration between the respective first and second ends thereof, with each panel  40  providing 120° of curvature in the circular sidewall  32 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that encircling sidewall  32  can have other, non-circular configurations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, encircling sidewall  32  can be comprised of other than three panels  40 . For instance, in an alternative implementation, encircling side wall  30  can comprise a single panel  40 , with a curved configuration, such that a first end thereof is disposed adjacent, attached, and/or attachable to an opposing second end thereof (e.g., panel  40  providing 360° of curvature in the circular sidewall  32 ). Similarly, encircling side wall  32  can comprise two panels  40 , each panel  40  providing 180° of curvature in the circular sidewall  32 , four panels  40 , each panel  40  providing 90° of curvature in the circular sidewall  32 , and so forth. Indeed, panels  40  can provide any suitable range or degree of curvature between 1° and 360°. 
     In an alternative implementation, a first panel  40  can provide a first range or degree of curvature and a second panel  40  can provide a second range or degree of curvature. For instance, encircling side wall  32  can comprise four panels  40 , wherein two of the panels  40  provide 120° of curvature and two of the panels  40  provide 60° of curvature in the encircling sidewall  32 . Accordingly, any suitable combination of panels  40  can be provided to form encircling side wall  32 . 
     Each panel  40  also has an outer surface  54  and an inner surface  56  opposite outer surface  54 , each surface extending between the respective first and second ends of the panel  40 . The respective inner surfaces  56  of panels  40  form an inner surface  56  of sidewall  32  and the respective outer surfaces  54  of panels  40  form an outer surface  54  of sidewall  32 . In at least one implementation, panels  40  can comprise or be formed of PETG or other suitable polymeric material. 
     As depicted further in the detailed view illustrated in  FIG. 2B , each panel  40  includes a body portion  41  and a flange  58  extending from the first end and from the second end thereof. As illustrated in the depicted embodiment, the flanges  58  project into the interior space  31  of drum  30  (e.g., within the bounds of inner surface  56 ). A first flange  58   a  of panel  40   a  (extending from body portion  41   a  thereof) is joined with a second flange  58   b  of panel  40   b  (extending from body portion  41   a  thereof) by means of one or more fasteners  59 . As depicted in  FIG. 2B , fastener  59  can comprise an attachment hardware extending through opposing openings  60  disposed in the flanges  58   a  and  58   b , respectively. In at least one implementation, however, fasteners  59  can be removed from openings  60  disposed in the flanges  58   a  and  58   b , respectively, following at least partial assembly of light fixture  12  and/or assembly  10 . Without being bound to any theory, such fastening hardware can produce undesirable shadowing effects on portions of lighting element  12  and/or assembly  10  (e.g., in an illuminated state) and/or add undesirable weight to drum  30 . In an alternative embodiment, however, fastener  59  can comprise an adhesive disposed between and/or securing flanges  58   a  and  58   b.    
     As discussed in further detail below, panels  40  can also include a notch  62  disposed between flange  58  and an upper edge portion  64  of panel  40 . A similar notch  62  can also be disposed between flange  58  and a lower edge portion  66  of panel  40 . In at least one implementation, upper edge portion  64  and lower edge portion  66  of panel  40  can have a substantially identical (e.g., mirror image) configurations, with a substantially identical notch  62  disposed between flange  58  and each of the upper edge portion  64  and lower edge portion  66 . In an alternative embodiment, however, a notch  62  can be disposed between lower edge portion  66  and flange  58 , without a similar notch  62  disposed between upper edge portion  64  and flange  58 , or vice versa. 
     Flange  58  can also have a tapered or recessed top and/or bottom edge  57  (e.g., extending at an angle away from upper edge  35  and/or lower edge  33  of sidewall  32  and/or panel  40  thereof, upper edge portion  64  and/or lower edge portion  66  of panel  40 , and/or notch(es)  62 ). For instance, as depicted in  FIG. 2B , flange  58   a  has a tapered or recessed top edge  57   a  and flange  58   b  has a tapered or recessed top edge  57   b , each extending (diagonally) away from notch  62  and/or upper edge  35  at an angle (e.g., about 45°). It will be appreciated, however, that other angles of recess are also contemplated herein. In an alternative embodiment, top edge  57  may not be recessed. Instead, top edge  57  can extend (perpendicularly) away from notch  62  at a 90° angle. Alternatively, top edge  57  can extend towards upper edge  35  at an angle (e.g., between 1° and 90°). It will also be appreciated that flange  58  can have a lower edge  57  configured similar to or different than upper edge  57 . 
     In certain implementations, tapered or recessed edge(s) (or (45°) angle thereof) can be structurally adapted or configured to reduce or substantially prevent shadowing on portion(s) of the polymeric panel(s) (e.g., upper and/or lower edge portion(s)) or other light fixture component(s) (e.g., upper diffuser  19  and/or lower diffuser  34  (see  FIGS. 1A-1C )), while maintaining sufficient flange material at the tapered or recessed edge portion to provide structural stability. 
     Turning now to  FIGS. 2C and 2D , and with continued reference to  FIGS. 2A and 2B , lower edge portion  66  and/or upper edge portion  64  can each present a straight edge  68  at connection interface  80 . For instance, as depicted in the enlarged facing view illustrated in  FIG. 2C , upper edge portion  64   b  of first end  46  of panel  40   b  can have and/or present a straight edge  68   b  at connection interface  80   b  and upper edge portion  64   c  of second end  48  of panel  40   c  can have and/or present a straight edge  68   c  at connection interface  80   b . Straight edge  68   b  and straight edge  68   c  can be joined together so as to form a butt seam  70  at connection interface  80   b . It is noted that lower edge portions  66  can be configured similar and or substantially identical to upper edge portion  64 . 
     Flange  58   b  of first end  46  of panel  40   b  can have and/or present a rounded edge  72   b  at connection interface  80   b  and flange  58   c  of second end  48  of panel  40   c  can have and/or present a rounded edge  72   c  at connection interface  80   b . Rounded edge  72   b  and rounded edge  72   c  can be joined together so as to form a tucked seam  74  at connection interface  80   b . Tucked seam  74  can present a surface gap (or indent)  75  in exterior surface  54  (e.g., between exterior surface  54  of panel  40   b  (or body portion  41   b  thereof) and exterior surface  54  of panel  40   c  (or boy portion  41   b  thereof)). Behind tucked seam  74  (e.g., adjacent inner surface  56 ), a body portion  76   b  of flange  58   b  can be joined with a body portion  76   c  of flange  58   c . In at least some implementations, flanges  58   b  and  58   c  can extend, respectively, away from inner surface  56 , upper edge portions  68   b  and  68   c , rounded edges  72   b  and  72   c , and/or interface  80   b , such that a (terminal) end  78   b  of flange  58   b  and/or a (terminal) end  78   c  of flange  58   c  is disposed within interior space  31  (e.g., opposite exterior surface  54 ). 
     In at least some implementations, notch  62  can be sized so as to be substantially invisible or unperceivable from exterior surface  54  (opposite tucked flanges  58 ). For instance, notch  62  can be or extend less than about 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, or 1 mm (e.g., between flange  58  and edge portion  64 ,  66 . In other implementations, notch  62  can be or extend less than about 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, or 0.25% the width of flange  58  (or the distance flange  58  extends away from edge  68 ). 
     Moreover, as depicted best in  FIG. 2D , respective body portions  76   c  and  76   b  of flanges  58   c  and  58   b  can be joined and aligned with seam  70  at connection interface  80   b . Stated another way, the interface between respective body portions  76   c  and  76   b  of flanges  58   c  and  58   b  and respective edges  68   c  and  68   b  (or the surface thereof) of panels  40   c  and  40   b  can be substantially parallel and/or aligned (e.g., in the same (vertical) plane). Thus, the angle between respective body portions  76   c  and  76   b  of flanges  58   c  and  58   b , and respective upper edge portions  64   c  and  64   b  of panels  40   c  and  40   b  can be about 90° in the assembled drum  30 . However, as discussed in further detail below, prior to assembly of drum  30 , the angle between respective body portions  76   c  and  76   b  of flanges  58   c  and  58   b  and respective upper edge portions  64   c  and  64   b  of panels  40   c  and  40   b  can be at least slightly less than 90°. Similarly, prior to assembly of drum  30 , the angle between respective body portions  76   c  and  76   b  of flanges  58   c  and  58   b  and respective inner surfaces  56  of panel  40  can be at least slightly greater than 90°. 
       FIGS. 3A-3C  depict an illustrative panel  40  in a substantially flat, un-curved, and/or unbent configuration (see  FIG. 3B ). As depicted in  FIG. 3A , panel  40  comprises an upper edge  35 , a lower edge  33 , and opposing flanges  58  extending from opposing sides thereof. Flange  58  can include optional opening(s)  60  extending therethrough. Panel  40  also includes opposing upper edge portions  64  and opposing lower edge portions  66 . Upper edge  35  can extend through (to the (terminal) end of) upper edge portions  64  and lower edge  33  can extend through (to the (terminal) end of) lower edge portions  66 . Opposing notches  62  can be disposed, respectively, between flange  58  and upper edge portions  64 , and between flange  58  and lower edge portions  66 . 
     As depicted in the detailed view illustrated in  FIG. 3C , notch  62  can comprise an optionally triangular-shaped cut or slit adapted to provide a gap or separation between at least a portion of (e.g., side edge  68 ) upper edge portion  64  and at least a portion of (e.g., body portion  76  and/or edge portion  73 ) of flange  58 . As described above, notch  62  can extend inward (toward body  41  of panel  40 ) from edge  68  a length of less than about 10 mm, 9 mm, 8 mm, 7 mm, 6 mm, 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, or 1 mm. Alternatively, notch  62  can extend inward from edge  68  a length of less than about 5%, 4%, 3%, 2%, 1%, 0.5%, or 0.25% the width of flange  58  (or the distance flange  58  extends away from edge  68 ). 
     Flange  58  also includes recessed top edge  57  (e.g., extending at an angle away from upper edge  35 , edge  68 , upper edge portion  64 , and/or notch  62 ). It will be appreciated that a recessed lower edge  57  can be similarly configured relative to lower situated components. In at least one implementation, the angle between recessed edge  57  of flange  58  (e.g., whether upper and/or lower situated) and edge  35 ,  33  can be (about) 45°. Alternatively, the angle between recessed edge  57  of flange  58  and edge  35 ,  33  can be greater than or less than 45° (e.g., between about 30° (or less) and about 60° (or more)). Similarly, the angle between recessed edge  57  of flange  58  and edge  68  can be (about) 135°. Alternatively, the angle between recessed edge  57  of flange  58  and edge  68  can be greater than or less than 135° (e.g., between about 120° (or less) and about 150° (or more)). 
     It is noted that in one or more implementations, the angle of tapered or recessed edge  57  can be chosen so as to reduce or substantially prevent shadowing on portion(s) of light fixture  12  (see  FIGS. 1A-1B ). For instance, the angle of recessed edge  57  can be selected to reduce or substantially prevent flange  58  from casting a shadow on one or more diffusers  34 ,  19  (e.g., when light fixture  12  is illuminated, such as by means of the lighting components of lighting lid  36 ). In certain implementations, an angle of (significantly) less than 45° between recessed edge  57  and edge  35 ,  33  can (potentially) cause flange  58  to cast a shadow on one or more diffusers  34 ,  19  when light fixture  12  is illuminated by means of the lighting components of lighting lid  36 . 
     Moreover, the angle of recessed edge  57  can be selected to maintaining sufficient flange material at the tapered or recessed edge portion to provide structural stability (e.g., such that the recessed portion of flange  58  does not break easily while assembling drum  30  and/or light fixture  12 ). For instance, in some implementations, an angle of (significantly) greater than 45° between recessed edge  57  and edge  35 ,  33  can (potentially) cause flange  58  to be weak or fragile adjacent to recessed edge  57 . Such weak or fragile flange portions can break during manipulation, such as bending and/or assembly of drum  30  and/or light fixture  12 . Thus, in at least one implementation, an optimal angle between recessed edge  57  of flange  58  (e.g., whether upper and/or lower situated) and edge  35 ,  33  can be (about) 45°, and an optimal angle between recessed edge  57  of flange  58  (e.g., whether upper and/or lower situated) and edge  68  can be (about) 135°. 
     As described above, flange  58  can be bent along edge portion  73  to form rounded edge  72  of flange  58  (see  FIGS. 2C-2D ). In at least one implementation, edge portion  73  of flange  58  can comprise one or more rounding elements  82 . Rounding element  82  can comprise a crease, score, or perforation(s) in some implementations. In at least one implementation, rounding element  82  can comprise a thinning of panel  40  between exterior surface  54  and interior surface  56 . Rounding element  82  can be adapted to reduce the force necessary to bend flange  58  relative to body portion  41 , upper edge portion  64 , and/or lower edge portions  66 . 
     In the depicted embodiment, for example, edge portion  73  of flange  58  has a first rounding element  82   a  (disposed adjacent to body portion  41  of panel  40 ), a third rounding element  82   c  (disposed adjacent to body portion  76  of flange  58 ), and a second rounding element  82   b  (disposed between the first rounding element  82   a  and third rounding element  82   c ). 
     In some implementations, rounding element(s)  82  can extend from and/or between notch(es)  62 . Accordingly, notch  62  can enable flange  58  to be bent relative to the upper edge portion  64 , body portion  41 , and/or lower edge portion  66  without substantially bending upper edge portion  64 , body portion  41 , and/or lower edge portion  66 . As depicted in  FIGS. 4A-4C , for instance, flange  58  can be bent such that body portion  76  of flange  58  is disposed at an angle (e.g., substantially perpendicular) relative to body portion  41 , lower edge portion  66 , and/or upper edge portion  64  of panel  40 . In such a configuration, body portion  76  and/or edge  78  of flange  58  can be disposed and/or face a direction at an angle relative to body portion  41  and/or edge  68  of upper edge portion  64  and/or lower edge portion  66 . Accordingly, notch  62  can enable lower edge portion  66  and/or upper edge portion  64  of panel  40  to retain a substantially unbent configuration while flange  58  is bent relative to body portion  41 , lower edge portion  66 , and/or upper edge portion  64  thereof. 
     As indicated above, in certain implementations, flange  58  can be bent such that body portion  76  (e.g., adjacent edge  78 ) is disposed at an angle of slightly less than 90° relative to the edge portions  66 ,  64  or slightly more than 90° relative to the inner surface  56  of panel  40 . Thus, upon assembly, as in  FIGS. 2A-2D , flanges  58  can be further bent to a 90°, with flanges  58  at least partially resisting or being resilient to the further bending, such that flanges  58  press against one another in the assembled drum  30 . Such pressure can stabilize and/or secure opposing and/or additional joints at interfaces  80 , create a tight and/or gapless butt seam  70  between joined edge portions  66 ,  64 , and/or reduce (or substantially eliminate) light from shining, reflecting, or leaking through butt seam  70  at connection interface  80 . 
     As depicted in  FIGS. 5A-5B , panel  40  and/or body portion  41  thereof (along with upper edge portions  64  and/or lower edge portions  66 ) can also be bent, curved, and/or otherwise shaped (relative to the straight configuration illustrated in  FIGS. 4A-4C ). In the detailed view depicted in  FIG. 5B , the curvature of panel  40  can extend (uniformly) through body portion  41 , upper edge portions  64 , and lower edge portions  66 . Accordingly, from a technical standpoint, upper edge portions  64  and lower edge portions  66 , along with body portion  41 , can all have a curved configuration. However, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, flange  58  can still be bent, rounded, and/or curved relative to body portion  41 , upper edge portions  64 , and/or lower edge portions  66 . 
     Moreover, bent flanges  58  can extend at least partially beyond straight edge  68  of lower edge portion  66 . In the bent configuration, flanges  58  can be semi-rigid and resiliently further bendable or deformable within a certain range of motion (e.g., such that the further bent flange  58  biases and/or tends to return to the original bent position). Accordingly, in a multi-panel configuration, as depicted in  FIG. 2A , joined flanges  58 , further, resiliently bent to a substantially 90° angle relative to edge portion  66 ,  64  of panel  40  (or other portion(s) thereof, such as inner surface  56 , outer surface  54 , body portion  41 , etc.), can be biased and/or tend to return to the original bent position (e.g., illustrated in  FIG. 5B ). The joined, further bent flanges  58  can produce opposing forces on one another that, when translated along the length of panels  40 , press opposing joints (e.g., edge portions  64 ,  66  and/or flanges  58 ) together at an opposing interface  80  (see  FIG. 2A ). The force can be sufficient to press panels  40  tightly together and/or produce a tight seam  70  between the opposing edge portions, such that the butt seam  70  is substantially devoid of a perceivable gap between the blunt, terminal ends  68  of the edge portions  64 ,  66 , thereby reducing (or substantially eliminate) light from shining, reflecting, or leaking through butt seam  70  at connection interface  80 . Tucked seam  74  can also be pressed tightly together in some implementations. 
     Moreover, notch  62  can enable lower edge portion  66  and/or upper edge portion  64  of panel  40  to retain straight edges  68  while flange  58  presents a rounded edge  72  (at connection interface  80 , see  FIG. 2D ). As illustrated in  FIG. 2C , the straight edges  68  of upper edge portions  64  (and/or lower edge portions  66 ) can be joined and/or secured at the interface  80  so as to form butt seam  70 . Butt seam  70  can comprise a substantially gapless joinder and/or connection between straight edges  68  of opposing upper edge portions  64  (and/or lower edge portions  66 ). For instance, in at least one implementation, connection between straight edges  68  of opposing upper edge portions  64  (and/or lower edge portions  66 ) can comprise a terminal edge and/or surface connection, such that the opposing panels and/or upper edge portions  64  (and/or lower edge portions  66 ) thereof terminate in a joinder at connection interface  80 . Accordingly, butt seam  70  can have the appearance of a fine line opposing panels  40 . 
     As further illustrated in  FIG. 1C , butt seam  70  can provide an aesthetic appeal in light fixtures  12  and/or assemblies  10  formed thereby. In particular, when viewed from (directly) below (and/or (directly) above) the fine line butt seam  70  can provide a significant aesthetic advantage over the appearance of tuck seam  74 , as the appearance of surface gap (or indent)  75  may be substantially reduced and/or eliminated thereby (see  FIGS. 2A and 2C ). Thus, the butt seam(s) can reduce the visibility of the tucked seam from above and/or below the light fixture  12  (e.g., when the butt seam is disposed in front of the tucked seam). 
     In addition, because upper edger portion  64  and/or lower edge portion  66  are disposed adjacent upper edge  35  and/or lower edge  33 , respectively, upper edger portion  64  and/or lower edge portion  66  can reduce and/or eliminate visibility of at least a portion of flange  58  from above and/or below the light fixture  12  (see  FIG. 2A ). Likewise, edge(s)  57  of flange  58  can be angled away from upper edger portion  64  and/or lower edge portion  66 , upper edge  35  and/or lower edge  33 , and/or notch  62 , thereby further reducing the visibility thereof and/or enhancing the aesthetic display or appeal (see  FIG. 2B ). 
     Moreover, with lower diffuser  34  connected to (e.g., secured within) a lower edge  33  of sidewall  32  (e.g., with sidewall  32  wrapped around lower diffuser  34 ), lower diffuser  34  can further reduce and/or eliminate visibility of at least a portion of flange  58  from below light fixture  12  (see  FIG. 1C ). It will be appreciated that upper diffuser  19  can perform a similar function of reducing and/or eliminating visibility of at least a portion of flange  58  from above light fixture  12  (see  FIG. 1A ). 
     In accordance with the foregoing description, an illustrative method of forming a low-profile light fixture joint can comprise joining a first end ( 46 ) of a polymeric panel ( 40   b ) with a second end ( 48 ) of a polymeric panel ( 40   c ) at a connection interface ( 80   b ), the first end ( 46 ) and the second end ( 48 ) each comprising an upper edge portion ( 64 ), a lower edge portion ( 66 ) opposite the upper edge portion, a flange ( 58 ) extending between the upper edge portion and the lower edge portion, and a notch ( 62 ) disposed between the flange and the lower edge portion, wherein the lower edge portion of the first end and the lower edge portion of the second end each present a straight edge ( 68 ) at the connection interface, the straight edge of the lower edge portion of the first end and the straight edge of the lower edge portion of the second end forming a butt seam ( 70 ) at the connection interface, the flange of the first end and the flange of the second end each presenting a rounded edge ( 72 ) at the connection interface, the rounded edge of the flange of the first end and the rounded edge of the flange of the second end forming a tucked seam ( 74 ) at the connection interface. 
     The method can also comprise a step(s) of (i) providing one or more polymeric panels having a body portion extending between a first and a second end, a first flange extending from the first end and an optional second flange extending from the second end, (ii) (thermo)forming the first end, and optionally the second end, of the polymeric panel by bending the flange thereof relative to the lower edge portion thereof, while optionally maintaining the lower edge portion in a substantially unbent configuration relative to the flange, the notch enabling the lower edge portion to retain the substantially unbent configuration relative to the flange while the flange of the first end of a polymeric panel is bent relative to the lower edge portion thereof, and/or (iii) configuring a first polymeric panel such that the first end is proximal to and joinable with the opposing second end. It will be appreciated that the first and second end can also or alternatively comprise first and second opposing ends of the same polymeric panel. 
     Additional description and examples related to certain aspects of the present disclosure are set forth in PCT/US2014/065816, filed 14 Nov. 2014, and published as WO 2015/073907 A3 on 21 May 2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by specific reference. 
     Various alterations and/or modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and additional applications of the principles illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, can be made to the illustrated implementations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims, and are to be considered within the scope of this disclosure. Thus, while various aspects and implementations have been disclosed herein, other aspects and implementations are contemplated. While a number of methods and components similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used to practice implementations of the present disclosure, only certain components and methods are described herein. 
     It will also be appreciated that systems, processes, and/or products according to certain implementations of the present disclosure may include, incorporate, or otherwise comprise properties features (e.g., components, members, elements, parts, and/or portions) described in other implementations disclosed and/or described herein. Accordingly, the various features of certain implementations can be compatible with, combined with, included in, and/or incorporated into other implementations of the present disclosure. Thus, disclosure of certain features relative to a specific implementation of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting application or inclusion of said features to the specific implementation. Rather, it will be appreciated that other implementations can also include said features without necessarily departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, unless a feature is described as requiring another feature in combination therewith, any feature herein may be combined with any other feature of a same or different implementation disclosed herein. Furthermore, various well-known aspects of illustrative systems, processes, products, and the like are not described herein in particular detail in order to avoid obscuring aspects of the example implementations. Such aspects are, however, also contemplated herein. 
     The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described implementations are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Each of the appended claims, as well as the recited elements thereof, is intended to be combinable with any other claim(s) and/or element(s) in any suitable combination or dependency without regard to the dependency in which said claims are presented. While certain implementations and details have been included herein and in the attached disclosure for purposes of illustrating implementations of the present disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in the methods and apparatus disclosed herein may be made without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the appended claims. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.