Patent Publication Number: US-10309632-B2

Title: Light-emitting diode wave guide down light retrofit fixtures

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation application of, and claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/795,631, titled “Light-Emitting Diode Wave Guide Down Light Retrofit Fixtures” and filed on Mar. 12, 2013, which claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 to: 1) U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/699,965, titled “Light-Emitting Diode Retrofit Wave Guide Down Light Fixtures for Down Cans and Junction Boxes” and filed on Sep. 12, 2012, and 2) U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/717,386, titled “Stingray Waveguide Light Fixtures” and filed on Oct. 23, 2012. The entire contents of these three applications are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
     Embodiments described herein relate generally to light emitting diode (LED) fixtures, and more particularly to systems, methods, and devices for retrofitting traditional fixtures with LED fixtures. 
     BACKGROUND 
     People with light fixtures at times replace one or more of these fixtures. Replacing a light fixture often requires decoupling the old fixture both mechanically and electrically and coupling the new fixture both mechanically and electrically in the area that the fixture will be positioned. Many consumers are not comfortable with personally handling electrical issues, which can result in them delaying replacement of the fixture and/or having to hire an experienced electrician to help them with the replacement. Replacement of the fixture can also entail painting or repairing a wall or other surface that the replacement fixture is being coupled to and can result in other additional expenses. In addition, many light fixtures use lighting technologies that are not as efficient and/or effective as LED-based lighting systems. 
     SUMMARY 
     In general, in one aspect, the disclosure relates to a system for mounting a light emitting diode (LED) wave guide down light retrofit fixture. The system can include a mounting plate having a number of apertures positioned on the mounting plate. The system can also include at least one fastening device mechanically coupled to an upper surface of the mounting plate using at least a first aperture, where the at least one fastening device mechanically couples to a base of an existing fixture. The system can further include at least one coupling device mechanically coupled to a bottom surface of the mounting plate. The system can also include a trim assembly. The trim assembly can include a frame having at least one coupling feature disposed on a top surface of the frame, where the at least one coupling feature mechanically couples to the at least one coupling device. The trim assembly can also include a LED light source mechanically coupled to the frame. 
     In another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a light emitting diode (LED) wave guide down light fixture. The LED wave guide down light fixture can include a mounting plate, and a LED driver that lacks a charge transfer device. The LED wave guide down light fixture can also include a trim assembly mechanically coupled to the mounting plate and having a backing member and at least one thermally conductive material. The LED wave guide down light fixture can further include a circuit board mechanically coupled to the backing member and electrically coupled to the LED driver. The LED wave guide down light fixture can also include a LED array mechanically and electrically coupled to the circuit board. The LED wave guide down light fixture can further include a wave guide positioned adjacent to the LED array and mechanically coupled to the trim assembly. The power delivered to the LED array by the LED driver can be at least 100V alternating current (AC). 
     In yet another aspect, the disclosure can generally relate to a light emitting diode (LED) light fixture. The LED fixture can include a mounting plate having a mechanical coupling feature disposed on a top surface of the mounting plate. The LED fixture can also include a LED driver removably coupled to the mounting plate, where the LED driver has a mechanical fastening feature that removably couples to the mechanical coupling feature of the mounting plate. The LED driver can be mechanically coupled to the mounting plate without using of a tool. 
     These and other aspects, objects, features, and embodiments will be apparent from the following description and the appended claims. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The drawings illustrate only example embodiments of LED wave guide down light retrofit fixtures and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope, as the LED wave guide down light retrofit fixtures may admit to other equally effective embodiments. The elements and features shown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the example embodiments. Additionally, certain dimensions or positionings may be exaggerated to help visually convey such principles. In the drawings, reference numerals designate like or corresponding, but not necessarily identical, elements. 
         FIGS. 1A-1E  show various views of an example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture for a down can in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIGS. 2A and 2B  show various views of an alternative example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture for a junction box in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIGS. 3A and 3B  show various views of an example trim assembly for a LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIG. 4  shows an exploded perspective top-side view of another example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIG. 5  shows a cross-sectional side view of yet another example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture for a down can in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIGS. 6A and 6B  each show a perspective view of an example LED driver securing mechanism for a LED light fixture in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIG. 7  shows a cross-sectional perspective view of another example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
         FIGS. 8A and 8B  shows various views of yet another example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture in accordance with certain example embodiments. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS 
     The example embodiments discussed herein are directed to systems, apparatuses, and methods of retrofitting existing fixtures with LED wave guide down light fixtures. Such existing fixtures can have one or more of a number of types of socket into which one or more light sources are electrically and mechanically coupled. Examples of types of sockets can include, but are not limited to, an Edison screw base of any diameter (e.g., E26, E12, E 14, E39), a bayonet style base, a bi-post base, a bi-pin connector base, a wedge base, and a fluorescent tube base. A light source of the existing fixture can electrically and mechanically couple to the socket and can be of a light source type that corresponds to the type of socket. Examples of light source types of the light source can include, but are not limited to, incandescent lamps, LEDs, halogen lamps, G10/GU10, G9/GU9, AR111/PAR36, T3, MR-11, and MR-16. If the light source of the existing fixture is a LED, the LED can be of one or more of a number of types of LED technology, including but not limited to discrete LEDs, LED arrays, chip-on-board LEDs, edge lit LED panels, and surface mounted LEDs. 
     Such existing fixtures can be mounted in a junction box (also called a j-box), a down can, or some other base for the fixture. In certain example embodiments, the junction box, down can, or other base is mounted in a ceiling or other surface so that the light emitted by the fixture is directed outward away from the surface. For example, for a fixture mounted in a ceiling, the light emitted by the fixture is directed downward (down light), away from the ceiling. Such a base for an existing fixture can be electrically coupled to a power source to provide power and/or control to the light fixture. The power source can provide the existing fixture with one or more of a number (and/or a range) of voltages, including but not limited to 120 V alternating current (AC), 110 VAC, 240 VAC, 24 V direct current (DC), and 0-10 VDC. 
     A base of an existing fixture can be of a standard size or a non-standard size. For example, if the base is a down can, some standard sizes can include a 4 inch down can, a 5 inch down can, and a 6 inch down can. In any case, example embodiments described herein are adjustable and adaptable to fit within any base of any size, whether such size is standard or non-standard. 
     Such existing fixtures can be of any size and/or shape, and can have any number of sockets. Such existing fixtures can be located indoor and/or outdoors and can be mounted to a surface (e.g., wall, ceiling, pillar), be part of a lamp, or be used with any other suitable mounting instrument where a down light is used. Such existing fixtures can be used in residential, commercial, and/or industrial applications. Such existing fixtures can operate from a manual fixture (e.g., on/off switch, dimming switch, pull chain), a photocell, a timer, and/or any other suitable mechanism. 
     When an example LED retrofit fixture is retrofitted over an existing fixture, the base (e.g., the junction box, the down can) of the existing fixture can remain as part of the LED retrofit fixture, while the remaining components of the existing fixture are removed. For example, while the junction box of an existing fixture remains in place, the socket, the lens, and the light source of the existing fixture are removed. In certain example embodiments, at least the light source of the existing fixture is replaced by the example LED retrofit fixture. In certain example embodiments, the base of the existing fixture is removed and/or modified by the example LED retrofit fixture. 
     While example embodiments described herein are directed to LED retrofit fixtures using at least a base of an existing fixture, example embodiments can also be applied to new fixtures that do not use any part of an existing fixture. Thus, example embodiments described herein should not be limited only to retrofit fixtures. Further, certain example embodiments can be used with fixtures that use a lighting technology other than LEDs. For example, example embodiments can be used with organic LEDs. Thus, example embodiments should not be limited to fixtures that use LED technology. 
     Example embodiments for retrofitting existing fixtures with LED wave guide down light fixtures will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of retrofitting existing fixtures with LED wave guide down light fixtures are shown. Retrofitting existing fixtures with LED wave guide down light fixtures may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of retrofitting existing fixtures with LED wave guide down light fixtures to those or ordinary skill in the art. Like, but not necessarily the same, elements (also sometimes called components) in the various figures are denoted by like reference numerals for consistency. 
       FIGS. 1A-E  show a various views of an example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture  100  (also called a LED retrofit fixture  100 ) for a base of an existing fixture, where the base is a down can, in accordance with certain example embodiments. The LED retrofit fixture  100  includes a trim assembly  102 , a LED driver  130 , a mounting plate  172 , and at least one bracket  140 . In one or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIGS. 1A-1E  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a LED retrofit fixture should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIGS. 1A-1E . 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1A-E , the trim assembly  102  includes a wave guide assembly  110 , and a frame  111 . In certain example embodiments, the frame  111  is made of thermally conductive material. In such a case, the frame  1111  is thermally coupled to the wave guide assembly  110  and/or the LED driver  130 , and acts as a heat sink. Specifically, the frame  111  can dissipate heat generated by the wave guide assembly  110  and/or LED driver  130 . The frame  111  and can include one or more features (e.g., fins, fans, synthetic jets) for active or passive cooling of the fixture. For example, the frame  111  can have an outer surface that includes a smooth outer segment  120  that joins at an angle with a smooth inner segment  115 . 
     The top side (i.e., the side facing toward from the LED driver  130 ) of the frame  111  can have a lip  118  that has a shape and size. The mounting plate  172  can have substantially the same shape as the lip  118 , but be of a slightly smaller size than the size of the inner perimeter of the lip  118 . In such a case, the mounting plate  172  can fit snugly inside of the lip  118  on the top side of the frame  111 . The lip  118  can also have a width (distance between the inner perimeter and the outer perimeter) or thickness. The frame  111  can be made from one or more of a number of suitable materials, including but not limited to metal, plastic, and ceramic. The frame  111  (as well as the rest of the trim assembly  102 ) can be a cast fixture of made from multiple pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other. 
     The remainder of the trim assembly  102  is described in more detail below with respect to  FIGS. 3A and 3B . In certain example embodiments, the mounting plate  172  has a number of apertures that traverse the thickness of the mounting plate  172 . An aperture in the mounting plate  172  can be a hole (e.g., aperture  180 , aperture  190 ), a slot  174  having a straight segment, a slot  174  having a curved segment, some other suitable aperture that traverses the mounting plate  172 , or any combination thereof. For example, the example mounting plate  172  is mechanically coupled to the trim assembly  102  using one or more fastening devices (e.g., screw, bolt) that traverse an aperture  180  in the mounting plate  172  and at least part of a corresponding aperture in the trim assembly  102  to couple the mounting plate  172  to the trim assembly  102 . 
     As another example, one or more slots  174  disposed on the mounting plate  172  can be used to adjustably fasten one or more brackets  140  to the mounting plate  172 . In certain example embodiments, a bracket  140  is any type of fastening device that includes one or more features that allow the bracket  140  to mechanically couple to a base of an existing fixture. Specifically, when one portion of the bracket  140  is mechanically coupled to the mounting plate  172 , another portion of the bracket  140  can be used to mechanically couple the LED retrofit fixture  100  to a base (e.g., a down can, a junction box) of an existing fixture. 
     Each bracket  140  can include one or more features that allow the bracket  140  to couple to the base of an existing fixture. For example, as shown in  FIG. 1B , a bracket  140  can have a central portion  142  with a wing  144  that extends on one or both ends of the central portion  142  at some angle relative to the central portion  142 . In addition, the wing  144  can have a top protrusion  146  that extends at some angle relative to the wing  144  and/or a bottom protrusion  148  that extends at some angle relative to the wing  144 . The wing  144 , top protrusion  146 , and/or bottom protrusion  148  can be angled and positioned in such a way as to allow the bracket  140  to mechanically couple to a base of an existing fixture and/or the mounting plate  172 . 
     In certain example embodiments, the bracket  140  includes one or more of a number of features that allow the bracket  140  to be mechanically coupled, directly or indirectly, to the upper or top surface of the mounting plate  172 . Such features can include, but are not limited to, tabs, slots, clips, and mating threads. For example, as shown in  FIGS. 1B, 1D, and 1E , the bracket can include one or more tabs  151  that can be disposed on the central portion  142 . The tabs  151  can be used to hold a mounting bracket  150  in place relative to the bracket  140 . 
     The example mounting bracket  150  can be of any height (e.g., the mounting bracket  150  can traverse a height of the central portion  142 ) and mechanically couple to a different feature of the bracket  140 . As an example of such a feature, the bracket  140  can include a cutout feature  153  of the central portion  142 . The mounting bracket  150  can be mechanically coupled to the cutout feature  153  of the central portion  142  using one or more fastening devices  152  (e.g., screw, bolt, nut). The mounting bracket  150  can also have a fold of some angle (e.g., approximately 90°, as shown in  FIG. 1B ) to allow a portion of the mounting bracket  150  to pass under the central portion  142 . 
     In certain example embodiments, the central portion  142  and the mounting bracket  150  are aligned with one of the slots  174  in the mounting plate  172 . In such a case, one or more fastening devices can be used to secure the mounting bracket  150  (and thus the bracket  140 ) to the upper surface of the mounting plate  172 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 1B , an extended bolt  154  traverses a portion of the slot  174  in the mounting plate  172  and extends toward the top side of the bracket  140 . A nut  155  is threadably coupled to the extended bolt  154  and tightened against the mounting bracket  150  to secure the bracket  140  to the mounting plate  172 . 
     In certain example embodiments, the bracket  140  can be mechanically coupled to the bottom surface of the mounting plate  172 . For example, tabs (or some other feature) disposed on the bottom of the bracket  140  can protrude through corresponding apertures that traverse the mounting plate  172 . In such a case, one or more fastening devices and/or other coupling devices and/or features can be used to mechanically couple the bracket  140  to the bottom surface of the mounting plate  172 . In such a case, because the bracket  140  extends away from the upper surface of the mounting plate  172 , the bracket  140  can be said to be mechanically coupled to the upper surface of the mounting plate  172 . 
     The fastening devices (e.g., extended bolt  154 , nut  155 ) used to couple the bracket  140  to the mounting plate  172  can be loosened and/or removed periodically by a user. In such a case, the bracket  140  can be moved to properly fit within the base (e.g., down can) of an existing fixture. For example, as shown in  FIG. 1B , the bracket  140  can slide along one or more slots  174  in the mounting plate  172  when the nut  155  is loosened. When the bracket  140  is positioned in the proper place on the mounting plate  172  for the size (e.g., 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches) of the base of the existing fixture, then the nut  155  can be tightened to keep the bracket  140  in place. 
     Further, in addition to the fastening devices (e.g., extended bolt  154 , nut  155 ), the bracket  140  can be slidably and or fixedly coupled to the mounting plate  172  using a bottom protrusion  148 , which can at least partially traverse an aperture (e.g., hole  180 , slot  174 ) in the mounting plate  172 . In certain example embodiments, the top surface and/or bottom surface of the mounting plate  172  can have one or more features (e.g., detents, scoring) that properly align each bracket  140  in the proper position on the mounting plate  172  for a given size of base of an existing fixture. 
     For example, a number of detents can be positioned (e.g., disposed along the top surface of the mounting plate  172 ) adjacent to one or more of the slots  174 . In such a case, each detent can receive a bottom portion of the bracket  140 . Each detent can correspond to a size of the base of an existing fixture. Each detent can also be labeled (e.g., engraving on the upper surface of the mounting plate  172  adjacent to the corresponding detent) to identify the size of the base for a particular detent. 
     The mounting plate  172 , bracket  140 , and the mounting bracket  150  can be made of one or more of a number of materials, including but not limited to plastic, metal, rubber, and ceramic. Further, the various features of the bracket  140  (e.g., central portion  142 , wings  144 , tabs  151 , cutout feature  153 ) can be made from a single piece (as from a mold) and/or can be separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more coupling methods, including but not limited to epoxy, welding, rivets, compression fittings, and fastening devices. 
     In addition, in certain example embodiments, the LED driver  130  is mechanically coupled to the mounting plate  172 . For example, as shown in  FIGS. 1B, 1D, and 1E , the LED driver  130  can be mounted on the top surface of the mounting plate  172 . The LED driver  130  can be mounted to the mounting plate  172  using one or more of a number of fastening devices, including but not limited to clips, brackets, screws, bolts, mating threads, and rivets. The LED driver  130  can be mounted in substantially the center of the mounting plate  172 . In addition, if there are multiple brackets  140 , the brackets  140  can be positioned substantially equidistantly around the LED driver  130 . In other words, the brackets  140  (e.g., two brackets  140 , three brackets  140 , four brackets  140 ) can be coupled to the mounting plate  172  symmetrically around the center of the mounting plate  172 . 
     The LED driver  130  can include one or more of a number of components (e.g., transformer, resistor, capacitor, integrated circuit) that can be discrete components, components integrated with a circuit board, and/or functions performed by components that are programmed into a hardware processor. The LED driver  130  is electrically coupled to the LEDs (also collectively called a LED light source). As shown below with respect to  FIGS. 7B and 8 , the LED light source can be mechanically coupled to the frame  111  of the trim assembly  102 . The LED driver  130  receives power and/or control information from a power source (or a switch or control device communicably coupled to the LED driver  130 ) that feeds the existing fixture, converts the power and/or control to a corresponding signal (e.g., voltage, current), and sends the corresponding signal to the LED light source to control the operational characteristics of the LED light source. Alternatively, or in addition, the LED driver  130  can be a source of power (e.g., a battery) that is independent of the power source that feeds the existing fixture. 
     In certain example embodiments, the LED driver  130  is located inside the LED retrofit fixture  100 . In such a case, the LED driver  130  can be mounted to the lower or bottom surface of the mounting plate  172 . Further, in such a case, the profile of the LED driver  130  can be lower and/or the height of the trim assembly  102  can be higher. Alternatively, the LED driver  130  can be located remotely from the LED retrofit fixture  100  using wired and/or wireless technology. 
       FIGS. 2A and 2B  show various views of an alternative LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture  200  (also called a LED retrofit fixture  200 ) for a base of an existing fixture, where the base is a junction box, in accordance with certain example embodiments. Specifically,  FIGS. 2A and 2B  show a partially exploded perspective side view of the LED retrofit fixture  200 . The various features of the LED retrofit fixture  200  are substantially the same as the corresponding features of the LED retrofit fixture  100  of  FIGS. 1A-1E , with exceptions as described below. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a LED retrofit fixture should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B . 
     Specifically, for mechanically coupling the LED retrofit fixture  200  to the base (in this case, a junction box) of an existing fixture, rather than the use of one or more brackets  140 , one or more extended bolts  154  are used. The extended bolts  154  can be the same as those described above with respect to  FIGS. 1A-1E  and can be mechanically coupled to corresponding receiving features incorporated with, or attached to, the junction box. 
     In addition,  FIGS. 2A and 2B  show details of coupling devices  210  that are mechanically coupled to the bottom surface of the mounting plate  172 . Each coupling device  210  can be coupled to the mounting plate  172  using one or more fastening devices  215  (e.g., screw, bolt, rivet). Such fastening devices  215  can be loosened and/or removed to adjust the position of the corresponding coupling device  210 . Each coupling device  210  extends away from the bottom surface of the mounting plate  172  (for example, in a substantially perpendicular direction from the mounting plate  172 ) by some distance. In addition, the distal end of the coupling device  210  can be substantially parallel to (or form some other angle relative to) the coupling feature  210 . Such a configuration of the coupling device  210  can allow a corresponding feature (described below with respect to  FIGS. 3A and 3B ) in the trim assembly  102  to be removably coupled to the coupling device  210  while allowing for a minimal air gap between the bottom of the mounting plate  172  and the top of the trim assembly  102 . 
     For example, the coupling devices  210  shown in  FIGS. 2A and 2B  can be twist lock spring clips that slidably couple with ramps in the top portion of the trim assembly  102 . In such a case, the trim assembly  102  can be rotatably coupled to the mounting plate  172  by positioning the coupling devices  210  in the ramp openings and rotating the trim assembly  102  in a certain direction (e.g., counter-clockwise). To decouple the trim assembly  102  from the mounting plate  172 , the trim assembly  102  can be rotated in an opposite direction (e.g., clockwise). The same or similar coupling devices  210  can be disposed on the bottom surface of the mounting plate  172  of the LED retrofit fixture  100  described above with respect to  FIGS. 1A-1E  to rotatably couple the coupling device  210  (and thus the mounting plate  172 ) to the trim assembly  102 . 
       FIGS. 3A and 3B  show various views of an example trim assembly  102  for a LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture (e.g., LED retrofit fixture  100 , LED retrofit fixture  200 ) in accordance with certain example embodiments. Specifically,  FIG. 3A  shows an exploded top perspective view of the trim assembly  102 , and  FIG. 3B  shows details of a receiving feature  330  for the trim assembly  102 . In one or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a trim assembly should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A through 3B , the top of the trim assembly  102  can include a reflector plate  310 , the lip  118 , a top surface  342 , and one or more receiving features  330 . The top surface  342  can be part of the frame and be made of one or more thermally conductive materials. The top surface  342  can have one or more apertures  380  that traverse at least a portion of the top surface  342 . The apertures  380  can correspond to the apertures  180  of the mounting plate  172 . The apertures  380  in the top surface  342  can also include a standoff that is at least as tall as (or substantially the same height as) the height of the lip  118  relative to the top surface  342 . Such a standoff can create and allow for a minimal air gap between the top surface  342  and the mounting plate  172 . 
     In certain example embodiments, the receiving features  330  mechanically couple to the coupling features  210  of the mounting plate  172 . As described above, the mechanical coupling between the receiving features  330  and the coupling features  210  allow the trim feature  102  to move (e.g., rotatably) relative to, and/or be decoupled from, the mounting plate  172 . For example, the receiving features  330  shown in  FIGS. 3A and 3B  can be ramps. Specifically, the coupling feature  210  is positioned within a space  352  surrounded by a side of the reflector plate  310 , a side wall  344  opposite the reflector plate  310 , a back wall  347 , and a split front wall  346  and  350 , where the side wall  344 , the back wall  347 , and the split front wall  346  and  350  are part of the top surface  342 . The two portions of the split front wall  346  and  350  can be joined by an adjoining wall  348 . In certain example embodiments, the split front wall  346  and  350  is not split but a single planar surface. 
     Once the coupling feature  210  is positioned within the space  352 , rotating the trim assembly  102  in a one (e.g., counterclockwise) direction couples the trim assembly  102  to the mounting plate  172 . The trim assembly  102  can be decoupled from the mounting plate  172  by rotating the trim in an opposite (e.g., clockwise) direction. In addition, or in the alternative, other coupling features  210  and receiving features  330  can be used to couple and decouple the trim assembly  102  and the mounting plate  172 . Examples of other types of coupling that can be used between the trim assembly  102  and the mounting plate  172  can include, but are not limited to, hingedly, threadably, and releasably. 
     The reflector plate  310  can mechanically couple to the top surface  342 . In certain example embodiments, to maintain a minimal air gap with the mounting plate  172 , the top surface of the reflector plate  310  is substantially flush with the top surface  342  of the trim assembly  102 . In such a case, a recessed border  321  is incorporated into the top surface  342  along some or all of the perimeter of the reflector plate  310 . The recessed border  321  can have a depth that is substantially equal to the height of the reflector plate  310 . 
     The reflector plate  310  and/or the top surface  342  can include one or more features to mechanically couple the reflector plate  310  to the top surface  342 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 3A , the reflector plate  310  can have one or more extensions  314  that protrude from an end of the reflector plate  310 . Each extension  314  can have a coupling feature (e.g., an aperture  316 , a hinge) that corresponds to a complementary feature (e.g., recessed area  322 ) and/or coupling feature (e.g., an aperture  324 , a hinge receiver) of the top surface  342 . In certain example embodiments, a fastening device  318  (e.g., a screw, a bolt) and/or some other coupling means is used to help mechanically couple the reflector plate  310  to the top surface  342 . 
     In certain example embodiments, the example reflector plate  310  is positioned above the wave guide  320  and reflects light received from the wave guide  320  back through the wave guide  320  towards the area to be illuminated. The reflector plate  310  can be made of and/or coated with a highly reflective material. For example, the reflector plate  310  can be made of a white optic material or alternatively can be made of a metallic material and painted with a white high-reflectance paint. 
     The example wave guide  320  can include a diffuser (not shown). In certain example embodiments, each of the diffuser (if included) the wave guide  320 , and the reflector plate  310  have substantially the same shape. The diffuser (if optionally included) can include a first side portion that is at least partially disposed against the wave guide  320  and a second, opposing side portion that faces an area to be illuminated. The use of the diffuser is optional and, when not included, the wave guide  320  can typically be viewed from the area being illuminated. In certain example embodiments, the diffuser is opaque and prevents direct viewing of the wave guide  320  while also helping to more evenly distribute light out from the LED light source (not shown). The example diffuser can be constructed of one or more of a number of materials. For example, the diffuser can be made of plastic or alternatively of a Mylar film that is adhered to the second side of the wave guide  320 . 
     In addition, or in the alternative, the example wave guide  320  can include a lens (not shown). A lens can be positioned below (either coupled to or adjacent to) the wave guide  320 , and the lens can be mechanically coupled to one or more portions of the frame  111 . A lens can be of any suitable size, color, thickness, texture, opacity, and shape. A lens described herein can also be made of one or more of a number of suitable materials, including but not limited to plastic, such as acrylic, and glass. A lens may be configured to manipulate light emitted by the LED light source in one or more of a number of ways, including but not limited to filtering, diffusion, reflection, and refraction. 
     The example wave guide  320  is disposed between the diffuser and the reflector plate  310 . If a diffuser is not included, a portion of the perimeter of the wave guide  320  can be disposed against the a recessed portion  321  and the reflector plate  310 . In certain example embodiments, the LED light source is disposed within some or all of the recessed portion  310 . The example wave guide  320  has at least one edge that is disposed up against the LED light source to receive the light being emitted by the LED light source and to distribute that light across the wave guide  320  in an effort to create a generally consistent light level across the wave guide  320 . 
     In certain example embodiments, the wave guide  320  abuts the LED light source in order to receive an increased amount of light output by the LED light source. In certain example embodiments, the wave guide  320  is made of acrylic and includes etchings between the top surface and the bottom surface to help distribute the light received from the LED light source evenly or substantially evenly across the surface area of the wave guide  320 . In certain example embodiments, the wave guide  320  also includes an etched surface along the portion of the wave guide  320  facing the area to be illuminated to reduce the reflectivity of the outer surface of the wave guide  320 . 
     The wave guide  320  can be of any shape, thickness, and/or other characteristic suitable to be positioned within the trim assembly  102 . For example, the wave guide  320  of  FIG. 3A  can have a tear drop shape. The wave guide  320  can be fed from one side, two sides, or more than two sides. The wave guide  320  can include one or more LED light sources that can emit light in one or more colors. The LED light source can also be of any shape, size, and brightness. The brightness and/or other light distribution can be constant or variable along the perimeter of the wave guide  320 . 
     One or more features can be used to secure the wave guide  320  within the trim assembly  102 . For example, the top surface  342  of the trim assembly  102  can have one or more recessed features into which one or more portions of the wave guide  320  can sit. As another example, a spring clip  340  can apply a compressive force to a portion of the wave guide  320  to hold the wave guide  320  in place against an opposing wall and/or feature of the top surface  342  and/or against some other feature (e.g., a circuit board for a LED light source (not shown)). 
       FIG. 4  shows an exploded perspective top-side view of another example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture  400  in accordance with certain example embodiments. Specifically,  FIG. 4  shows the mounting plate  172  and the trim assembly  102  of the LED retrofit fixture  400 . In one or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIG. 4  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a LED retrofit fixture should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIG. 4 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-4 , the LED driver  130  can be electrically coupled to the wave guide  320  and/or one or more LED light sources. In certain example embodiments, one or more physical wires  477  are used to electrically couple the LED driver  130  to the wave guide  320  and/or one or more LED light sources. In such a case, the physical wires  477  can be fed through a feature (e.g., aperture  311 , a notch in a corner) in the reflector plate  320  as well as a slot  174  in the mounting plate  172  so that one end of the wire  477  mechanically and electrically couples to the LED driver  130  while the other end of the wire  477  mechanically and electrically couples to the wave guide  320  and/or the one or more LED light sources. The air gap between the mounting plate  172  and the top surface  342  of the trim feature  102  allows the wire  477  to pass between the mounting plate  172  and the top surface  342  of the trim feature  102  without getting pinched. 
       FIG. 5  shows a cross-sectional side view of yet another example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture  500  for a base of an existing fixture in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIG. 5  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a LED retrofit fixture should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIG. 5 . Referring to  FIGS. 1A-5 , the various components and features of the LED retrofit fixture  500  are substantially the same as those described above with respect to  FIGS. 1A-1E . In this example, only one bracket  140  is used to mechanically couple the LED retrofit fixture  500  to the base of an existing fixture. Here, the base of the existing fixture can be a down can. 
       FIGS. 6A and 6B  each show a perspective view of an example LED driver securing mechanism for a LED light fixture in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a LED driver securing mechanism should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B . For example, the example LED driver securing mechanisms can be used with any type of light fixture that uses a LED driver. For example, example LED driver securing mechanisms can be used with retrofit fixtures and/or new fixtures. In addition, the example LED driver securing mechanisms can be located at any point on and/or within a light fixture. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6A and 6B ,  FIG. 6A  shows an example securing mechanism  665  for a LED driver  620  where the LED driver  620  is mounted on a top surface of the mounting plate  610  (also called a back plate). The mounting plate  610  can be flat or have, as shown in  FIGS. 6A and 6B , one or more recessed areas. Specifically, as shown in  FIG. 6A , the LED driver  620  and the securing mechanism  665  are disposed in a recessed area  614  of the mounting plate  610 , where the recessed areas  614  is joined to the non-recessed area  611  by a transition area  616 . Similarly, as shown in  FIG. 6B , the LED driver  690  and the securing mechanism  625  are disposed in a recessed area  614  of the mounting plate  610 , where the recessed areas  614  is joined to the non-recessed area  611  by a transition area  616 . 
     The mounting plate  610  can be mounted to the frame  660  of the trim assembly  659  using one or more fastening devices  612  (e.g., screws) that traverse an aperture in the mounting plate  610  (in this case, in the non-recessed area  611  of the mounting plate  610 ) as well as at least a portion of the frame  660 . The trim assembly  659  can also include a lip  618  that creates a boundary inside of which the mounting plate  610  can be positioned. 
     The LED driver (e.g., LED driver  620 , LED driver  690 ) can have a number of features. For example, as shown in  FIG. 6A , the LED driver  620  can have a top end  622  and one or more of a number of sides  624 . Disposed on at least one side can be a portion of the securing mechanism  665 . Specifically, a receiving feature  670  is disposed on a side  624  of the LED driver  620  in  FIG. 6A . The example receiving feature  670  can be of any shape, size, and/or dimensions, and can have any of a number of features. Further, the receiving feature  670  can be made to complement the fastening feature  680  disposed on the mounting plate  610  so that the LED driver  620  can be detachably coupled to the mounting plate  610 . 
     The receiving feature  670  of  FIG. 6A  includes a pair of anchors  672  that are disposed on either side of a rod  674 . The side  624  of the LED driver  620 , the anchors  672  and/or the rod  674  can be made from a single piece (as from a mold) and/or can be separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more coupling methods, including but not limited to epoxy, welding, rivets, compression fittings, and fastening devices. 
     In certain example embodiments, the fastening feature  680  of the securing mechanism  665  is mounted to the mounting plate  610 . Here, the fastening feature  680  is mounted to the recessed area  614  of the mounting plate  610 . The example fastening feature  680  can be of any shape, size, and/or dimensions, and can have any of a number of features. Further, the fastening feature  680  can be made to complement the receiving feature  670  disposed on the LED driver  620  so that the LED driver  620  can be detachably coupled to the mounting plate  610 . 
     The fastening feature  680  of  FIG. 6A  is a tab that is hingedly coupled to the mounting plate  610  by a hinge  686 . Specifically, the fastening feature  680  includes a base portion  682  that is hingedly coupled to the mounting plate  610 . On the other side of the base portion  682  is a curved portion  688  that transitions to a distal portion  684 . The combination of the curved portion  688  and the distal portion  684  mechanically couple to the rod  674  of the receiving feature  670 , which allows the LED driver  620  to be mechanically coupled to the mounting plate  610 . The hinge  686 , the portion of the mounting plate  610  where the hinge  686  is disposed, the base portion  682 , the curved portion  688 , and the distal portion  684  can be made from a single piece (as from a mold) and/or can be separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more coupling methods, including but not limited to epoxy, welding, rivets, compression fittings, and fastening devices. 
       FIG. 6B  shows another example securing mechanism  625 . In this case, the receiving feature  630  of  FIG. 6B  includes a pair of anchors  632  that are disposed on either side of a tab  634 . The pair of anchors  632  and/or the tab  634  can be the same or different than the anchors  674  and rod  674  of  FIG. 6A . The side  694  of the LED driver  690 , the anchors  632  and/or the tab  634  can be made from a single piece (as from a mold) and/or can be separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more coupling methods, including but not limited to epoxy, welding, rivets, compression fittings, and fastening devices. 
     Further, the fastening feature  640  of  FIG. 6B  is a tab similar to the tab of  FIG. 6A , except that in this case, the tab is reversed so that the distal portion  644  points away from, rather than toward, the LED driver  690 . The distal portion  644  can extend from a curved portion  648 . A base portion  682  can be hingedly coupled to the mounting plate  610  at one end using a hinge  646  and mechanically coupled to the curved portion  648  at the other end. The back side (hidden from view) of the base portion  682  and/or the curved portion  648  can include one or more features (e.g., a clip) that allow the fastening feature  640  of the securing mechanism  625  to mechanically coupled to the receiving feature  630 . For example, a clip on the back side of the curved portion  648  can latch onto a portion of the tab  634 . One or more of the components of the fastening feature  640  can be made from a single piece (as from a mold) and/or can be separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more coupling methods, including but not limited to epoxy, welding, rivets, compression fittings, and fastening devices. 
     In certain example embodiments, the position of the fastening feature and the receiving feature of the securing mechanism can be reversed. For example, fastening feature  640  of the securing mechanism  625  of  FIG. 6B  can be disposed on the LED driver  690 , while the receiving feature  630  can be disposed on the mounting plate  610 . When a lighting device (e.g., lighting device  600 , lighting device  601 ) includes multiple securing mechanisms, the components on which each fastening feature and each receiving feature can vary. 
     In addition to the example mechanical securing mechanisms described herein, a lighting fixture can include one or more electrical coupling features. Such example electrical coupling features can be a connector having a male (or female) end disposed in the mounting plate and a corresponding female (or male) end disposed in an outer surface (e.g., the bottom side) of the LED driver. In such a case, the electrical coupling feature can also serve as a mechanical coupling feature. In certain example embodiments, the electrical coupling feature electrically couples to the electrical mating feature when the mechanical fastening feature (e.g., fastening feature  640 ) is mechanically coupled to the mechanical coupling feature (e.g., coupling feature  630 ). 
     In some cases, the electrical coupling feature is installed by a user at the time the LED driver is mechanically coupled to the mounting plate using the example securing mechanism. For example, wires may protrude from an aperture in the mounting plate, and corresponding wires may protrude from an aperture in the LED driver. In such a case, a user can splice the appropriate wires from the lighting fixture to the corresponding wires from the LED driver before using the example securing mechanism to couple the LED driver to the mounting plate. In certain example embodiments, the LED driver and/or the mounting plate can have one or more features (e.g., a recess, an aperture, a channel) into which the extra lengths of wire and/or the wire splices can be disposed prior to using the example securing mechanism to couple the LED driver to the mounting plate. 
     Example securing mechanisms described herein can allow a user to easily remove a LED driver from a lighting fixture. Such a need can arise, for example, when a LED driver fails and needs to be replaced, when the type and/or size of LED driver is incorrect and needs to be replaced, and when the LED driver requires maintenance. Example securing mechanisms can be engaged and/or disengaged by a user without the use of a tool (e.g., a screwdriver, a socket driver, a wrench) for the mechanical and/or electrical couplings of the LED driver. 
       FIG. 7  shows a cross-sectional side perspective view of another example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture  700  in accordance with certain example embodiments. In one or more embodiments, one or more of the components shown in  FIG. 7  may be omitted, repeated, and/or substituted. Accordingly, embodiments of a LED retrofit fixture should not be considered limited to the specific arrangements of components shown in  FIG. 7 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-7 , the trim assembly  759  and the mounting plate  710  of the LED retrofit fixture  700  are substantially similar to the trim assembly  659  and the mounting plate  610  of the LED retrofit fixture  600  of  FIG. 6A  above. The LED driver  705  shown in  FIG. 7  can be mechanically coupled to the mounting plate  710  with or without the use of the example securing mechanisms described above with respect to  FIGS. 6A and 6B . 
     Underneath the mounting plate  710 , a wave guide  765  and a reflector  770  can be disposed between one or more lighting modules  720 . Each lighting module  720  can be mechanically (e.g., removably, slidably) coupled to a standoff  711 . The standoff  711  and the rest of the frame  760  can be made from a single piece (as from a mold) and/or can be separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more coupling methods, including but not limited to epoxy, welding, rivets, compression fittings, and fastening devices. 
     Alternatively, the standoff  711  can be removable, and the lighting module  720  (or portions thereof) are fixedly coupled to the frame  760  of the trim assembly  759 . In such a case, at least a portion of the lighting module  720  and the frame  760  can be made from a single piece (as from a mold) and/or can be separate pieces that are mechanically coupled to each other using one or more coupling methods, including but not limited to epoxy, welding, rivets, compression fittings, and fastening devices. 
     In certain example embodiments, each lighting module  720  includes a backing member  715 , a circuit board  724 , and a LED light source  722  (also called a LED array). In this example, the backing member  715  of the lighting module  720  forms a single piece with the frame  760 , but the backing member  715  can alternatively be mechanically coupled to the frame  760 . As discussed above, the frame  760  (and thus, in this case, the backing member  715 ) is made of one or more of a number of thermally conductive materials and can act as a heat sink, drawing heat generated by one or more heat-generating sources and dissipating the heat. 
     In a LED lighting fixture, a number of heat-generating sources can exist. Such heat generating sources are usually associated with the electronics, such as the LED driver  705 , the circuit board  724 , and/or the LED light source  722 . For example, the circuit board  724  and/or the LED light source  722  can generate heat when operating, and excessive amounts of heat applied to the circuit board  724  and/or the LED light source  722  can cause the circuit board  724  and/or the LED light source  722  to fail. In such a case, the backing member  715 , along with the frame  760 , can absorb at least a portion of the heat generated by the circuit board  724  and/or the LED light source  722  and dissipate the heat into the ambient air. 
     In certain example embodiments, the light generated by the LED light source  722  is directed into a side of the wave guide  765 . The reflector  770  can be a top layer of the wave guide  765 . Alternatively, the reflector  770  can be a separate member that is disposed on top of the wave guide  765 . One or more portions of the frame  759  (e.g., support protrusion  716 , support protrusion  717  located adjacent to support protrusion  716 , tab (hidden from view, but similar to tab  842  shown in  FIG. 8A  below)) can be used to support the wave guide  765  and keep the wave guide  765  in position relative to the LED light sources  722 . 
     In LED lighting fixtures known in the art, the voltage delivered to the circuit board  724  by the LED driver  705  is between approximately 0 VAC and 71 VAC. The LED driver  705  receives a higher voltage (e.g., 120 VAC) from an external source and uses a transformer (or some other type of charge transfer device) that is part of the LED driver  705  to reduce the voltage to between 0 VAC and 71 VAC. In such a case, the LED driver  705  is called an isolated driver. 
     The cost of a LED driver  705  that is an isolated driver is high. A transformer (or some other type of charge transfer device) is an expensive component of the isolated driver. In addition, the transformer itself is relatively inefficient (e.g., 10% losses), and so the heat generated by the transformer (and thus the LED driver  705 ) can be significant. 
       FIGS. 8A and 8B  shows various views of yet another example LED wave guide down light retrofit fixture  800  in accordance with certain example embodiments. Specifically,  FIG. 8A  shows a top perspective view of the LED retrofit fixture  800 , and  FIG. 8B  shows a cross-sectional perspective view of the LED retrofit fixture  800  that includes a non-isolated LED driver  805  with output voltage that exceeds 71 VAC in accordance with certain example embodiments. The LED retrofit fixture  800  of  FIGS. 8A and 8B  is essentially the same as the LED retrofit fixture  700  of  FIG. 7  above, except as described below. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1A-8B , the non-isolated LED driver  805  of  FIGS. 8A and 8B  does not include a transformer or other charge transfer device. Therefore, the power delivered by the LED driver  805  to the circuit board  824  of the lighting module  820  can be above 71 VAC. In certain example embodiments, the power delivered to the circuit board  824  (and thus the LED light source  822  or LED array) by the non-isolated LED driver  805  is at least 71 VAC. To compensate for the higher voltage flowing through the circuit board  824  and subsequently through the LED light source  822 , one or more components of the circuit board  824  and/or the LED light source  822 , as well as the arrangement of such components, can be altered or replaced. 
     In addition, or in the alternative, in certain example embodiments, the lighting module  820  can include one or more additional components. For example, as shown in  FIG. 8 , the lighting module  820  can include an example insulator  850  that is disposed between the backing member  815  of the frame  860  and the circuit board  824 . The insulator  850  can be made of one or more of a number of materials that have a high amount of thermal conductivity and a low amount of electrical conductivity. An example of such a material is specially-made plastic. 
     The example insulator  850  can be used to meet the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) requirements for minimum spacing clearance and creepage distance when the voltage of the circuit board  824  is more than 50 VAC. Creepage can be defined as the shortest path between two conductive parts (or between a conductive part and the bounding surface of the equipment) measured along the surface of the insulation. A proper and adequate creepage distance protects against tracking, a process that produces a partially conducting path of localized deterioration on the surface of an insulating material as a result of the electric discharges on or close to an insulation surface. The degree of tracking required depends on, among other factors, the comparative tracking index (CTI) of the material and the degree of pollution in the environment. Tracking that damages the insulating material normally occurs because of one or more of a number of factors, including but not limited to humidity, presence of contamination (e.g., dust), and corrosive chemicals. 
     Clearance is the shortest distance between two conductive parts (or between a conductive part and the bounding surface of the equipment) measured through air. Clearance distance helps prevent dielectric breakdown between electrodes caused by the ionization of air. The dielectric breakdown level is further influenced by, among other factors, relative humidity, temperature, and degree of pollution in the environment. 
     The insulator  850  can be mechanically coupled to the circuit board  824  and/or the backing member  815  using one or more of a number of fastening methods, including but not limited to epoxy, welding, rivets, compression fittings, and fastening devices. Alternatively, the insulator  850  can rest freely and be held in place by one or more features (e.g., support protrusion  816 , support protrusion  817 , tab  842 , backing member  815 , frame  860 , mounting plate  810 ) of the LED retrofit fixture  800 . 
     Alternatively, in certain example embodiments, the insulator  850  can include one or more features that help secure and/or thermally insulate the circuit board  824  and/or the LED light source  822 . For example, as shown in  FIG. 8B , the insulator  850  can include a base  856 , a back side  854 , and a outward protrusion  852 , giving the insulator  850  a U-shape or a C-shape. This C-shape of the insulator can increase the creepage and clearance distances without providing a larger, more flat insulator. As a result, the profile of the LED retrofit fixture  800  is reduced. 
     The base  856  can help align and/or support the circuit board  824  and/or the LED light source  822  from underneath. The back side  854  can provide support for the back side of the circuit board  824 . The outward protrusion  852  can help align and/or support the circuit board  824  and/or the LED light source  822  from above. In some or all cases, the various components of the insulator  850  can provide thermal insulation to the circuit board  824  and/or the LED light source  822 . 
     In certain example embodiments, the insulator  850  can be replaced with or augmented by a component with thermally conductive properties. Alternatively, the backing member  815  can be wider and/or have other properties or characteristics (e.g., high thermal conductivity, low thermal conductivity) to allow the circuit board  824  and the LED light source  822  to operate at the higher voltages (more than 71 VAC) delivered by the non-isolated LED driver  805 . When the LED driver is isolated, as with the LED driver  705  of  FIG. 7 , the voltage output is less than 71 VAC. As a result, the creepage and clearance distance requirements are smaller and so can be accomplished by the circuit board  724  without an insulator. 
     Retrofitting existing fixtures with example embodiments of LED retrofit wave guide down light fixtures allows a user to replace at least a lens and light source of the existing fixture to provide a wave guide LED light source using an down can, junction box, or other base of the existing fixture. By retrofitting the existing fixtures using certain example embodiments, most or all of the existing fixture (except, at times, for the base) can be replaced to provide a different look to the light fixture without complicated electrical and/or mechanical manipulation or expertise. In other words, many issues common to retrofitting a lighting fixture (e.g., rewiring, drilling new holes, repairing a surface, hiring an electrician, buying an entirely new fixture) can be avoided or minimized fixture. Using example embodiments described herein, the light fixture can be more energy efficient, provide particular types of lighting, and be easily changed at some point in the future. 
     Example securing mechanisms described herein can allow a user to easily remove a LED driver from a lighting fixture. Such a need can arise, for example, when a LED driver fails and needs to be replaced, when the type and/or size of LED driver is incorrect and needs to be replaced, and when the LED driver requires maintenance. 
     In addition, example non-isolated LED drivers allow for less heat loss at the LED driver, as well as reduced cost of the LED driver. Further, example insulators, mechanically coupled to a circuit board and/or a LED array, can allow higher voltage to be applied to the circuit board and the LED array. 
     Accordingly, many modifications and other embodiments set forth herein will come to mind to one skilled in the art to which retrofitting existing fixtures with LED retrofit wave guide down light fixtures pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that retrofitting existing fixtures with LED retrofit wave guide down light fixtures is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of this application. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.