Patent Description:
Aeroponic growing involves spraying a liquid nutrient solution on the roots of developing plants. The roots of these plants are generally bare and suspended in a growth chamber where the nutrients are sprayed. In some versions of aeroponic farming, seeds are deposited on the top surface of a cloth that can be supported by a frame. The seeds are germinated, and then cloth on the frame is placed in the growth chamber. In the growth chamber, the upper side of the cloth is subjected to light of the proper wavelength and intensity to promote growth in the developing plants, the underside of the cloth and the developing root mass receives the nutrient solution. The plants resulting from the seeds are harvested at a desired stage of growth. The growth chambers can be stacked on each other and/or located side by side to save space within a facility and to permit sharing the subsystems which provide the nutrient solution, temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide to the growth chambers. A rapidly developing and healthy plant canopy is beneficial in these systems because it reduces the amount of light that reaches the growth media and can reduce the formation of harmful algae growth.

Space utilization in state of the art aeroponic growing facilities is an important consideration in the design and operation of these facilities to maximize yield and reduce costs. One way to increase growing space is to locate growing towers more closely together, and in some cases to combine them. Accessibility to equipment within the tower such as fans, lighting, and nozzles needs to be accounted for when spacing growth towers more closely together.

Traditional LED lamps are difficult to install and remove because they require a force to be applied by a user grasping the lamp to engage or disengage lamp pins on the ends of the lamp from their respective sockets. This force, which can include twisting and pulling, can create strain on the housing and lead to lamp damage. The spacing of these lamps is also limited because sufficient space must be kept to allow a user's hand to grasp the lamp and apply the force to it. Installing and removing many of these lamps during the life of an aeroponic farm results in downtime, can be time consuming, and can reduce the efficiency operation.

There is a continuing need for lighting and lamps which are easy to install and remove, that reduce accessibility requirements to the lamps, and allows customized spacing to adapt lighting flux needs to growth tower requirement. Thus, an interest exists for improved lighting and lamps, and related methods of use. These and other inefficiencies and opportunities for improvement are addressed and/or overcome by the assemblies, systems and methods of the present disclosure.

Document <CIT> discloses a lighting system comprising vertical upright supports, parallel rows of first and second support brackets, and elongated lighting units disposed on the support brackets. Documents <CIT> and <CIT> disclose elongated LED lighting units.

The present disclosure provides advantageous lighting unit for use in growing plants. More particularly, the present disclosure provides improved lighting systems that are fixtureless, waterproof, customizable, and easy to install/remove.

In exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides advantageous elongated LED lighting units that are adjacently located in close proximity to one another. Elongated LED lighting units include at least two endcaps, each having external surfaces, and at least one elongated transparent housing positioned therebetween. The external surfaces of the endcaps may cooperate with support brackets located on opposite sides of a support structure, e.g., an aeroponic growth tower. In one implementation the external surfaces are flat. The external flats may rest on a surface of the support brackets. The support brackets may at least partially define the boundaries of the aeroponic growth tower, and, more particularly, the growth chamber. Solid state lighting devices/LED lamps may further be located within the elongated transparent housing, thereby at least partially spanning the distance between the endcaps, the support brackets, and across the growth chamber. Solid state lighting devices may be positioned in close proximity to an elongated heat sink to facilitate heat transfer. The elongated heat sink may extend at least partially the distance between the at least two endcaps.

A first endcap of the elongated LED lighting unit may include an alignment feature that mates with a corresponding feature on a first support bracket. A second endcap, in opposition to the first endcap, includes at least one electrical connector, outfitted to enable adjacent solid state lighting devices to be electrically daisy chained thereto, and an alignment feature that mates with a corresponding feature on a second support bracket. Endcaps may include an internal surface, having a diameter slightly larger than the outside diameter of the transparent housing, wherein during installation the endcap captures a portion of the outer surface of the transparent housing. Sealing surface, positioned perpendicularly to internal surface, may capture the end portion of transparent housing. Sealing surface may further include a gasket for a watertight seal. Endcaps may further include an internal cavity/slot that longitudinally extends beyond the internal surface, wherein the internal cavity may house an LED lamp heat sink that extends beyond the transparent housing.

The lighting unit's endcaps in embodiments of the disclosure have internal flats that engage the portion of the LED lamp chassis or heat sink that extends beyond the ends of the transparent housing and the endcaps and also have a sealing surface that overlaps the end portions of the housing beyond which the LED lamp heat sink extends. The LED lamp chassis or heat sink can include threaded fixtures to attach the endcap. The combination of internal flats and sealing surfaces of the endcaps advantageously combine to strengthen the joints in the elongated LED lighting unit. The external flats and external alignment feature on each endcap cooperate to reduce stress on the joints while providing simplified alignment and robust installation of these LED lighting units with the support brackets of the growth tower.

LED lighting units in embodiments of the disclosure simplify the installation and removal of the units from support brackets. The alignment features on the opposite endcaps promote rapid and secure installation of the lighting units into the support brackets without the need for twisting and/or applying a force to the lamps to facilitate seating them within a socket. Advantageously, the disclosed LED lighting units may be assembled in close proximity to one another (and possibly in contact with one another) as a result of the ease of installation and removal (e.g., no twisting, top mounting clips, additional force, etc.).

According to the invention, an elongated LED lighting unit is positioned between substantially parallel and horizontal rows of first and second support brackets, wherein the first and second support brackets are positioned to directly/indirectly connect opposing vertical upright supports. The elongated LED lighting unit includes an elongated transparent housing longitudinally positioned between a first endcap and a second endcap. The first endcap, second endcap, and elongated transparent housing enclose a plurality of solid state light emitting diode devices (LEDs) that are positioned in close proximity to an elongated heat sink to facilitate heat transfer. The elongated heat sink has a first end portion that longitudinally extends beyond a first end of the transparent housing, longitudinally extending past an internal sealing surface within the first endcap, and settling in close proximity to an additional internal surface within the first endcap. The elongated heat sink further includes a second end portion that longitudinally extends beyond a second end of the transparent housing, longitudinally extending past a sealing surface within the second endcap, and settling in close proximity to an internal surface within the second endcap.

The first end cap further includes an external mating feature and an external cooperative surface which is positioned onto a corresponding mating feature on a first support bracket and a surface of the first support bracket, respectively. The first endcap includes an internal surface that overlaps a portion of the first end of the transparent housing and may be used to seal the endcap with the transparent housing. The second endcap includes an electrical feedthrough and an external cooperative surface which is positioned onto a corresponding mating feature on a second support bracket and a surface of the second support bracket, respectively. The second endcap further includes an internal surface that overlaps a portion of the second end of the transparent housing which may be used to seal the endcap with the transparent housing. In one embodiment, the electrical connection of the endcap is the alignment feature. In some embodiments, the elongated LED lighting unit further includes the substantially parallel and substantially horizontal rows of first and second support brackets that connect the vertical upright supports in an aeroponic growing tower.

Another embodiment of the disclosure is a method of installing any one of the disclosed elongated LED lighting units. The method includes the acts or steps of positioning the first endcap of the elongated LED lighting unit, which includes an external cooperative surface and an external mating feature, with a first support bracket that further includes a corresponding mating feature. Positioning the second endcap of the elongated LED lighting unit, which includes an external cooperative surface and an electrical feedthrough, with a second support bracket that further includes a corresponding mating feature. The external cooperative surfaces of the endcaps are directly/indirectly in relation to a surface of the corresponding support brackets. The external cooperative surface and the support bracket may interface such that the two surfaces complement each other. In one embodiment, the electrical connection of the second endcap is the alignment feature. In some embodiments, the elongated LED lighting unit further includes the substantially parallel and substantially horizontal rows of first and second support brackets that connect the vertical upright supports in an aeroponic growing tower.

The present disclosure provides for an elongated LED lighting unit where the lighting unit for substantially parallel and horizontal rows of first and second support brackets connecting vertical upright supports that includes an elongated transparent housing with a first endcap that is free of an electrical connector and a second endcap that has an electrical connector. The first endcap, second endcap, and elongated transparent housing enclose a plurality of solid state lighting devices that are fixed to an elongated heat sink. The elongated heat sink has a first end portion that extends beyond a first end of the transparent housing, extends past a sealing surface in the first endcap, and contacts an internal surface in the first endcap. The elongated heat sink has a second end portion that extends beyond a second end of the transparent housing, extends past a sealing surface in the second endcap, and contacts an internal surface in the second endcap.

The present disclosure also provides for an elongated LED lighting unit including an elongated transparent housing with a longitudinal axis and a first end and a second end oppositely positioned thereon; a first endcap and a second endcap mounted with respect to the first end and the second end, wherein the second endcap includes an electrical feedthrough; an elongated heat sink including a longitudinal axis with a first end portion and a second end portion oppositely positioned thereon; and a plurality of solid state lighting devices mounted with respect to the elongated heat sink, wherein the elongated transparent housing encloses the elongated heat sink, and the first end portion and the second end portion of the elongated heat sink are mounted with respect to the first endcap and the second endcap; and wherein the first endcap and the second endcap are mounted with respect to a surface of a first support bracket and a second support bracket, connecting at least two vertical upright supports.

The present disclosure also provides for an elongated LED lighting unit wherein both the first endcap and the second endcap further include an internal cavity that extends longitudinally beyond the elongated transparent housing, wherein the elongated heat sink is mounted with respect to the internal cavity. An elongated LED lighting unit wherein the first endcap and the second endcap further include a mating feature and the first support bracket and the second support bracket further include a corresponding mating feature.

An elongated LED lighting unit wherein the first endcap and the second endcap further include an external surface for interfacing with the first support bracket and the second support bracket. Additionally, the external cooperative surface of the first endcap or the external cooperative surface of the second endcap has a dimension that is substantially the width of the first and second support brackets.

An elongated LED lighting unit wherein the first endcap and the second end cap further include a mating feature for interfacing with the elongated transparent housing.

Additionally, wherein the mating feature captures an outer surface of the elongated transparent housing.

An elongated LED lighting unit wherein the electrical feedthrough is a mating feature. Further, where the electrical feedthrough includes a waterproof seal.

An elongated LED lighting unit wherein the mating feature includes an internal surface and a sealing surface, wherein the sealing surface is substantially perpendicular to the internal surface and the internal surface and the sealing surface define a cavity. Additionally, an elongated LED lighting unit wherein the sealing surface further includes a waterproof seal for interfacing with the elongated transparent housing.

An elongated LED lighting unit wherein the first and second support brackets, interconnecting the vertical upright supports, are substantially parallel and horizontal and define an aeroponic growth module.

The present disclosure provides for a method of installing the disclosed elongated LED lighting unit onto substantially parallel and horizontal rows of first and second support brackets, connecting vertical upright supports, which includes positioning the first endcap of the elongated LED lighting unit onto the first support bracket, wherein the first endcap and the first support bracket include corresponding mating features; and positioning the second endcap of the elongated LED lighting unit and the electrical feedthrough onto a second support bracket, wherein the second endcap and the second support bracket include corresponding mating features. The method of installing the disclosed elongated LED lighting unit which further includes securing the elongated LED light unit to one or more support brackets with a fastener.

The method of installing the disclosed elongated LED lighting unit wherein the elongated LED light unit is positioned by lowering the electrical connector into the corresponding support bracket mating feature.

The present disclosure further provides for the method of attaching a subsequent elongated LED lighting unit onto the first and second support brackets, wherein the subsequent elongated LED lighting unit further includes an electrical feedthrough mounted with respect to an endcap, wherein the electrical feedthrough of the first elongated LED lighting unit is electrically daisy chained to the electrical feedthrough of the subsequent elongated LED lighting unit.

The subsequent elongated LED lighting unit wherein the electrical feedthrough is also a mating feature. The elongated LED lighting unit wherein the mating feature of the first and second endcaps further include an external flat surface with dimensions that are substantially the width of the first and second support brackets.

The method of removing the elongated LED lighting unit wherein the second endcap is lifted away from the second support bracket and the elongated LED lighting unit is lifted upwards to disengage the first endcap from the first support bracket.

Any combination or permutation of embodiments is envisioned. Additional advantageous features, functions and applications of the disclosed systems, methods and assemblies of the present disclosure will be apparent from the description which follows, particularly when read in conjunction with the appended figures.

The drawings accompanying and forming part of this specification are included to depict certain aspects of the invention. A clearer impression of the invention, and of the components, units, and operation of systems provided with the invention, will become more readily apparent by referring to the exemplary, and therefore nonlimiting, embodiments illustrated in the drawings, wherein identical reference numerals designate the same components. Note that the features illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Embodiments of the disclosure are illustrated in the figures, like numerals being used to refer to like and corresponding parts of the various drawings.

To assist those of ordinary skill in the art in making and using the disclosed assemblies, systems and methods, reference is made to the appended figures, wherein:.

In the following description, it is understood that terms such as "top," "bottom," "outward," "inward," and the like are words of convenience and are not to be construed as limiting terms.

Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, which are illustrated in the accompanying figures and examples. Referring to the drawings in general, it will be understood that the illustrations are for the purpose of describing particular embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the same.

Whenever a particular embodiment of the disclosure is said to comprise or consist of at least one element of a group and combinations thereof, it is understood that the
embodiment may comprise or consist of any of the elements of the group, either individually or in combination with any of the other elements of that group.

These and other aspects of the invention will be better appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction with the following description and the accompanying drawings. The following description, while indicating various embodiments of the invention and numerous specific details thereof, is given by way of illustration and not of limitation. Many substitutions, modifications, additions or rearrangements may be made within the scope of the invention, and the invention includes all such substitutions, modifications, additions or rearrangements.

Furthermore, when any variable occurs more than one time in any constituent or in a formula, its definition on each occurrence is independent of its definition at every other occurrence. Also, combinations of substituents and/or variables are permissible only if such combinations result in stable compounds.

A plurality of solid state lighting devices or light emitting diode devices can be used in embodiments of the disclosure and are generally referred to as LEDs. These LEDs can be fixed or secured to a heat sink structure. An elongated LED lighting unit in versions of the disclosure refers to an LED lighting unit that is longer than it is wide. For cylindrical LED lighting units, the length of the unit along its axis is greater than the diameter of the unit.

A mating feature of the support brackets for engagement of one or more
corresponding mating feature(s) of an endcap of the elongated LED lighting unit in embodiments of the disclosure may include, but is not limited to, a recess, slot, hole(s), groove, cutout, magnet, and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the mating feature of the support bracket may protrude from the support bracket.

A mating feature of the endcaps for engagement of one or more corresponding mating features of a support bracket may include, but is not limited to, a protrusion, pin, fin or other raised structure, magnet, and combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the mating feature of the endcap can be a recess, slot, hole(s), grove, cutout, or magnet formed into or placed onto the endcap.

In embodiments of the disclosure, an electrical feedthrough refers to a connector that at least provides electrical connection from outside the elongated LED lighting unit to the interior components of the elongated LED lighting unit. The electrical connection can provide electrical power, lamp control signals, data signals, and any combination of these between the lighting unit interior and the exterior environment. The electrical feedthrough can include one or more contact points that extend from the connector body for connection to the internal lighting unit leads. In embodiments of the disclosure, the electrical connection is fluidly sealed with a waterproof seal to an endcap of the lighting unit and prevents fluid, such as water or a nutrient solution, from penetrating the connector under a differential pressure and causing an electrical short circuit in the lighting unit. It is also important that the electrical connections are able to insulate typical tool voltages after being sealed from the fluids.

Substantially parallel and horizontal rows of first and second support brackets connecting vertical upright supports refers to support brackets that can have some variation in the degree of parallelism and horizontal orientation. For example, the rows of supports may have a small slope from end to end in the horizontal direction between frame members, for example between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees, as measured with a level from end to end, and still be considered substantially horizontal. Similarly, the degree of parallelism of support brackets between opposing frame members can vary between about <NUM> degrees and about <NUM> degrees and still be considered parallel when measured end to end between the support brackets from one frame member to the second frame member.

Aeroponic systems may include a growth chamber with at least one aeroponic module. Ships of exemplary cloth/fabric material may be sewn together and attached to frames in a substantially taut configuration to form a flat. In some exemplary embodiments, a single piece of fabric may include grommets to attach the fabric to a frame which may include cross members to support the fabric. Flats may be utilized for seeding, harvesting, and temporary storage prior to harvesting. Flats may be advanced through the growth chamber e.g., manually, automatically, and the like. Trays may be set on rails, which are located each side of the chamber, and advanced in a chain-like configuration. As flats reach an end of the growth chamber, a cutting apparatus (not shown) may be utilized to cut (i.e., harvest) the plants. A series of flats may further be placed end-to-end to extend the total length of the growth chamber. In another embodiment, aeroponic modules and/or a series of aeroponic modules can be stacked above one another, i.e., forming one growth chamber over another growth chamber to form an aeroponic tower. The use of multiple growth chambers and aeroponic towers may allow for tailoring of each grown chamber to the specific needs of the plants being grown therein, e.g., light, temperature, nutrient composition, delivery, space, and the like.

With reference to <FIG>, embodiments of the disclosure relate to elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> structured to enable handling from at least one end which includes at least one electrical feedthrough. Elongated LED lighting units <NUM> can be positioned between parallel and horizontal rows of first and second support brackets/supports <NUM>, <NUM>, which are designed to directly/indirectly connect opposing vertical upright supports (i.e., frame members) <NUM>, <NUM>. Elongated LED lighting units <NUM> can be aligned and in electrical communication with additional, adjacent elongated LED lighting units located in close proximity to support brackets/supports <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, supports <NUM>, <NUM> for lighting units <NUM> are parallel or substantially parallel, as illustrated in <FIG>. Elongated LED lighting units <NUM> can be suspended between parallel and horizontal, or substantially parallel and horizontal, rows of first and second support brackets <NUM>, <NUM> connected to vertical upright supports <NUM>, <NUM>, which can be used in a variety horticultural and multilevel horticultural applications, including, but not limited to, growth towers in aeroponic farming, greenhouses, hydroponic farming, and other applications that utilize multiple arrays of elongated LED lighting units <NUM>. In some embodiments elongated LED lighting units <NUM> are positioned on supports in an aeroponic grow tower that can further include one or more stacked aeroponic modules.

A multi-layer horticultural structure can include main vertical upright supports <NUM>, <NUM>, which can be connected to a floor or other supporting surface, and one or more parallel, lateral, and horizontal supports, such as but not limited to supports <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>. The supports <NUM> and <NUM> for the elongated LED lamps <NUM> are substantially parallel and separated from one another and connected with vertical upright supports <NUM>, <NUM> and other horizontal supports. Growing trays, drip pans, conduits to supply nutrients, and fan(s) <NUM> for circulating air (shown with optional fan support <NUM>) can also be included and held by various supports (not shown), as depicted in <FIG>.

With further reference to <FIG> and <FIG>, elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> includes elongated transparent housing <NUM> with first endcap <NUM> and second endcap <NUM>. First endcap <NUM>, second endcap <NUM>, and elongated transparent housing <NUM> enclose a plurality of solid state light emitting diode devices (LEDs) <NUM> that can be connected to a source of electrical current and may be positioned in close proximity to elongated heat sink <NUM> to facilitate heat transfer. Elongated heat sink <NUM> includes first end portion <NUM>, which may longitudinally extend beyond first end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>. First end portion <NUM> may further longitudinally extend beyond internal sealing surface <NUM> of first endcap <NUM>. First end portion <NUM> may further contact and/or engage with internal surface <NUM> of first endcap <NUM>. The distance first end portion <NUM> of elongated heat sink <NUM> extends is dependent on the intended design and use of elongated LED lighting unit <NUM>. Elongated heat sink <NUM> includes second end portion <NUM>, which may longitudinally extend beyond second end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>. Second end portion <NUM> may further longitudinally extend beyond internal sealing surface <NUM> of second endcap <NUM>. Second end portion <NUM> may further contact and/or engage with internal surface <NUM> of second endcap <NUM>. The distance second end portion <NUM> of elongated heat sink <NUM> extends is dependent on the intended design and use of elongated LED lighting unit <NUM>.

As further depicted in <FIG> and <FIG>, first endcap <NUM> includes external mating feature <NUM> and external cooperative surface <NUM>, which are configured and dimensioned to interface with a corresponding mating feature of first support bracket <NUM> and a surface of first support bracket <NUM>. External cooperative surface <NUM> and first support bracket <NUM> may interface such that the two surfaces complement each other. In one implementation, external cooperative surface <NUM> may be substantially flat (or flat). First endcap <NUM> further includes internal surface <NUM> that is configured and dimensioned to directly/indirectly engage with a portion of first end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>. Internal surface <NUM> may be configured such that the dimension between opposing internal surfaces <NUM> is slightly larger than the outer surface of transparent housing <NUM>. Internal surface <NUM> may be used to seal first endcap <NUM> with transparent housing <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, internal surface <NUM> may be configured and dimensioned to interface with first end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM> in a press-fit configuration, wherein the outer diameter of first end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM> is substantially equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of internal surface <NUM>.

Second endcap <NUM> includes electrical feedthrough <NUM> and external cooperative surface <NUM>, which is configured and dimensioned to interface with a corresponding mating feature of second support bracket <NUM> and a surface of second support bracket <NUM>. In one implementation, external cooperative surface <NUM> may be substantially flat (or flat). Second endcap <NUM> further includes internal surface <NUM> that is configured and dimensioned to directly/indirectly engage with a portion of second end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>. Internal surface <NUM> may be configured such that the dimension between opposing internal surfaces <NUM> is slightly larger than the outer surface of transparent housing <NUM>. Internal surface <NUM> may be used to seal second endcap <NUM> with transparent housing <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, internal surface <NUM> may be configured and dimensioned to interface with second end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM> in a press-fit configuration, wherein the outer diameter of second end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM> is substantially equal to or slightly larger than the diameter of internal surface <NUM>. In yet another exemplary embodiment, electrical feedthrough <NUM> of second endcap <NUM> may be an alignment and/or mating feature.

Endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> may further include internal cavity/slot (not shown) that longitudinally extends beyond internal surface <NUM>, <NUM>, wherein internal cavity/slot (not shown) may house LED lamp heat sink <NUM>, when extended beyond first end <NUM> and/or second end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>. Particularly, as illustrated by <FIG>, internal cavity (not shown) surrounds first end portion <NUM> and second end portion <NUM> of heat sink <NUM>. Heat sink <NUM> may be secured to endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> by bonding end portions <NUM>, <NUM> to internal surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> using an adhesive or mechanical fastener.

For example, as depicted in <FIG>, end portions <NUM>, <NUM> of heat sink <NUM> may be inserted (e.g., fit or press fit) into heat sink cavity/slot <NUM> formed in endcap(s) <NUM>, <NUM>. Heat sink slot <NUM> can include surface <NUM> and side portions of fastener slots (<NUM>); other positioning slots can be used with or in place of fastener slots to form heat sink slot <NUM>. Fasteners (not shown) can be inserted through fastener slots <NUM> in endcap <NUM>, <NUM> and used to further secure an end of heat sink <NUM> with heat sink slot <NUM> (e.g., using a bolt and locking nut). In another embodiment, slots <NUM> may include features to engage with heat sink <NUM>. Heat sink <NUM> may further include corresponding features for engagement with slots <NUM>. Gasket <NUM>, for example an o-ring, can be associated with sealing surface <NUM>, <NUM> to seal end portion <NUM>, <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM> to endcap <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, an o-ring may be placed in a groove within a sealing surface <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and/or end portion/end surface <NUM>, <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM> and used to seal transparent endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> to transparent housing <NUM>. Gasket <NUM>, when engaged, may provide for a watertight seal.

Engagement of internal surface <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of endcap <NUM>, <NUM> with the outer surface of end portion <NUM>, <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>, combined with the engagement of end portion <NUM>, <NUM> of heat sink <NUM> with internal surface <NUM>, <NUM> of endcap <NUM>, <NUM>, creates an overlapping joint that provides strength to elongated LED lighting unit <NUM>. As previously stated, elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> may engage with support brackets <NUM>, <NUM>.

In yet another exemplary embodiment of this disclosure, a method of installing elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> positioned between substantially parallel and horizontal rows of first and second support brackets <NUM>, <NUM>, which are in close proximity to vertical upright supports <NUM>, <NUM>. Elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> includes elongated transparent housing <NUM> with first endcap <NUM> and second endcap <NUM>, with electrical connector <NUM> connected thereto. First endcap <NUM>, second endcap <NUM>, and elongated transparent housing <NUM> enclose a plurality of solid state lighting devices <NUM> that are in close proximity to elongated heat sink <NUM> to facilitate heat transfer. In one implementation, solid state lighting devices <NUM> may be fixed to elongated heat sink <NUM>. Elongated heat sink <NUM> includes first end portion <NUM>, which extends longitudinally beyond first end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>, and further extending longitudinally beyond sealing surface <NUM> within first endcap <NUM>, thereby being in close proximity to internal surface <NUM> of first endcap <NUM>. Elongated heat sink <NUM> may contact and/or engage with internal surface <NUM> of first endcap <NUM>. Elongated heat sink <NUM> includes second end portion <NUM>, which extends longitudinally beyond second end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>, and further extending longitudinally beyond sealing surface <NUM> within second endcap <NUM>, thereby being in close proximity to internal surface <NUM> of second endcap <NUM>. Elongated heat sink <NUM> may contact with and/or engage with internal surface <NUM> of second endcap <NUM>.

The above-mentioned method includes the acts or steps of positioning any one of the disclosed elongated LED lighting units <NUM> in close proximity to first and second support brackets <NUM>, <NUM>. Particularly, positioning first endcap <NUM> of elongated LED lighting unit <NUM>, which includes external cooperative surface <NUM> and external mating feature <NUM>, with first support bracket <NUM>, which includes corresponding mating feature <NUM>. Positioning second endcap <NUM> of elongated LED lighting unit <NUM>, which includes external cooperative surface <NUM> and electrical feedthrough <NUM>, onto second support bracket <NUM> with corresponding mating feature <NUM>. External cooperative surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> of endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> contact a surface of the corresponding support brackets <NUM>, <NUM>. External cooperative surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> and support brackets <NUM>, <NUM> may interface such that the two surfaces complement each other. In one embodiment, electrical connection/feedthrough <NUM> of second endcap <NUM> may be utilized as an alignment feature. In some embodiments, elongated LED lighting units <NUM> are positioned on supports <NUM>, <NUM> in an aeroponic grow tower that includes one or more stacked aeroponic modules. In other embodiments, endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> may be fastened to support brackets <NUM>, <NUM> using at least one fastener.

In some embodiments, elongated LED lighting units <NUM> can be installed without securing elongated LED light unit <NUM> to one or more support brackets <NUM>, <NUM> with a fastener. Advantageously, elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> in embodiments of the disclosure can be positioned by lowering electrical connector <NUM> into support bracket mating feature <NUM>, and in some embodiments elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> may be positioned by lowering electrical feedthrough <NUM> on endcap <NUM> onto or into mating feature <NUM> of support bracket <NUM>. The method of installing elongated LED lights <NUM> may further include the act or step of connecting first electrical connector <NUM> of first elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> to second electrical connector <NUM> of second elongated LED lighting unit <NUM>. In some instances, the connection may be performed on the same bracket where elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> is connected to a source of power. In some embodiments, electrical feedthrough <NUM> of second endcap <NUM> may be further utilized as a mating feature.

<FIG> illustrate a non-limiting example of elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> with one or more electrical connectors/feedthroughs <NUM>, <NUM> positioned within endcap <NUM>, which further includes mating feature <NUM>, which can be secured to support bracket <NUM> using fastener <NUM>. In an exemplary embodiment, second endcap <NUM> may include dual electrical connectors <NUM>, <NUM>, as depicted in <FIG>. Endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> of elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> may be positioned between support brackets <NUM>, <NUM>. (See, <FIG>). Support bracket <NUM> may further be connected to upright frame member <NUM>. External cooperative surface <NUM> (e.g., flat surface) of second endcap <NUM> may contact support surface <NUM> of support <NUM> of elongated lighting unit <NUM>. External mating feature <NUM> of first endcap <NUM> may be associated with corresponding slot feature <NUM> of support bracket <NUM>. External cooperative surface <NUM> (e.g., flat surface) of first endcap <NUM> may contact surface <NUM> of support <NUM>. External cooperative surface <NUM> and contact surface <NUM> may interface such that the two surfaces complement each other. As illustrated in <FIG>, each endcap may be engaged and aligned with a mating feature on the corresponding support bracket.

In other embodiments where endcap <NUM>, <NUM> includes a single electrical feedthrough/connector <NUM>, <NUM>, electrical connector <NUM> can be the mating feature that interfaces with a corresponding feature, similar to mating feature <NUM> disclosed in <FIG> and <FIG>. However, such mating feature is not limited to mating feature <NUM> and additional designs may be incorporated without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

In some embodiments, internal surface <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> of endcap <NUM>, <NUM> that contacts or engages with end portions <NUM>, <NUM> of heat sink <NUM> may include a flat portion that overlaps a portion of external cooperative surface <NUM>, <NUM>. In some embodiments, internal surface <NUM>, <NUM> and corresponding external cooperative surface <NUM>, <NUM> are parallel. In other embodiments, external cooperative surface <NUM> of first endcap <NUM> and external cooperative surface <NUM> of second endcap <NUM> are parallel and co-planar. In additional embodiments, internal surface <NUM>, <NUM> of endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> are further bound by locating features which create a cavity within the endcap to secure heatsink <NUM>. <FIG> illustrates non- limiting embodiments wherein locating features <NUM> can also function as screw slots to interface with end portions <NUM>, <NUM> of heat sink <NUM>. In some embodiments, external cooperative surface <NUM>, <NUM> is dimensioned to be substantially the width of corresponding cooperative surface of support bracket <NUM>, <NUM>.

With further reference to <FIG>, elongated LED lighting units <NUM> may be located within a portion of a growth tower that is positioned on support brackets <NUM>, <NUM>, which are connected with frame members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. In these figures, elongated lighting units <NUM> include one endcap with a single electrical connection <NUM> and another endcap without an electrical connection, but with an external mating feature. In this embodiment, electrical connection <NUM> positioned within endcap <NUM> further provides for a support feature, which may be positioned and/or located within mating features <NUM> of support bracket <NUM>. Advantageously, in this embodiment, there is no mechanical connection, such as a screw, bolt, or top mounted clip, holding elongated lighting unit <NUM> in position. Endcap <NUM> of elongated LED unit <NUM> rests on flat plane <NUM> of endcap <NUM>, thereby mating with the horizontal part of support <NUM>. Mating features <NUM> in the vertical portion of support bracket <NUM>, in this example depicted as an"L" bracket, and waterproof electrical connector <NUM> are sized so that under normal circumstances, the waterproof connector <NUM> does not bottom out on mating feature <NUM> and is not supporting the weight of elongated LED lighting unit <NUM>. <FIG> shows endcap <NUM> of elongated LED unit <NUM> positioned on support bracket <NUM>. Elongated LED lighting units <NUM> are located in a portion of a growth tower having support bracket <NUM> and frame members <NUM>, <NUM>. Endcap <NUM> of each LED lighting unit <NUM> includes a protrusion or external mating feature <NUM> that interfaces with corresponding feature <NUM>, in this case a round hole on support bracket <NUM>.

Advantageously elongated LED lighting units <NUM> that include a single electrical connector <NUM> that also functions as a mating feature, may enable the adjacent mounting of additional units <NUM> with little or no spacing therebetween. The disclosed spacing may promote flexibility in the design and intensity of the light delivered to the substrates located below the LED lights.

One embodiment of the disclosure is a method of fabricating elongated LED lighting unit <NUM> for substantially parallel and horizontal rows of first and second support brackets <NUM>, <NUM>, connecting vertical upright supports <NUM>, <NUM>. The method can include elongated transparent housing <NUM> that encloses a plurality of solid state lighting devices <NUM>, wherein solid state lighting devices <NUM> are positioned in close proximity to elongated heat sink <NUM> to facilitate heat transfer. In some embodiments, solid state lighting devices <NUM> are fixed to elongated heat sink <NUM>. Elongated heat sink <NUM> includes first end portion <NUM>, which extends longitudinally beyond first end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM> and elongated heat sink <NUM> includes second end portion <NUM>, which longitudinally extends beyond second end <NUM> of elongated transparent housing <NUM>. Fixturing second end portion <NUM> of heat sink <NUM>, which longitudinally extends beyond second end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>, into internal slot <NUM> (similar to slot <NUM> in <FIG>) of second endcap <NUM>, wherein second endcap <NUM> further includes electrical feedthrough <NUM> and external cooperative surface <NUM> (e.g., external flat surface), which are adapted to contact a corresponding mating feature on second support bracket <NUM> and surface <NUM> of second support bracket <NUM>, respectively. External cooperative surface <NUM> and surface <NUM> may interface such that the two surfaces complement each other. Furthermore, internal slot <NUM>, <NUM> of second endcap <NUM> may overlap a portion of external cooperative surface <NUM> (e.g., external flat surface) of second endcap <NUM>.

Fixturing may further provide a waterproof seal between sealing surface <NUM> of second endcap <NUM> and second end portion <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>.

The method of fabrication can further include the act or step of fixturing first end portion <NUM> of elongated heat sink <NUM>, which longitudinally extends beyond first end <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>, into internal slot <NUM> (similar to slot <NUM> in <FIG>) of first endcap <NUM>. First endcap <NUM> further includes external mating feature <NUM> and external cooperative surface <NUM> (e.g., external flat surface), which are adapted to contact a corresponding mating feature on first support bracket <NUM> and surface <NUM> of first support bracket <NUM>, respectively. External cooperative surface <NUM> and surface <NUM> may interface such that the two surfaces complement each other. Furthermore, internal slot <NUM> of first endcap <NUM> may overlap a portion of external cooperative surface <NUM> of first endcap <NUM>. Fixturing can further provide a waterproof seal between sealing surface <NUM> of first endcap <NUM> and first end portion <NUM> of transparent housing <NUM>.

As depicted in <FIG>, transparent housing <NUM> and endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> may be sealed together. The seal, as stated previously, may be water proof. In some embodiments, the seal may be gasket <NUM>, <NUM>, which is compressed between endcap sealing surfaces <NUM>, <NUM>. Other seal types and/or sealants can also be used to provide a water tight joint between endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> and transparent housing <NUM>, as will be known in the art. For example, epoxy, rubber, caulk, o-ring, and any combination thereof. In some embodiments, a sealant may be used to enhance the mechanical strength of and provide a waterproof seal between endcap inner surfaces <NUM>, <NUM> and transparent housing end portions <NUM>, <NUM>. Endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> may include the necessary tolerances such that the gasket or other sealing method will sufficiently compress when mechanical interferences start to limit travel of a fastener (e.g., screw) between endcap <NUM>, <NUM> and heat sink <NUM>. Endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> may also include features that enable gasket <NUM>, <NUM> to expand when mechanical tolerance on transparent housing <NUM> and endcaps <NUM>, <NUM> create a situation where gasket <NUM>, <NUM> is overly compressed beyond a predetermined limit. Waterproof seals may be further included between electrical feedthrough <NUM> and endcap <NUM>.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative or qualitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term such as "about" or numerical ranges is not to be limited to a specified precise value, and may include values that differ from the specified value.

Claim 1:
An elongated LED lighting system, comprising:
vertical upright supports (<NUM>, <NUM>);
substantially parallel rows of first and second support brackets (<NUM>, <NUM>) connecting the vertical upright supports; and
an elongated LED lighting unit (<NUM>) comprising:
an elongated transparent housing (<NUM>) with a first endcap (<NUM>) that is free of an electrical connector (<NUM>) and a second endcap (<NUM>) that comprises an electrical connector (<NUM>); the first endcap (<NUM>), the second endcap (<NUM>), and the elongated transparent housing (<NUM>) enclose a plurality of solid state lighting devices (<NUM>) fixed to an elongated heat sink (<NUM>), wherein the elongated heat sink (<NUM>) (i) extends beyond a first end (<NUM>) of the elongated transparent housing (<NUM>), (ii) extends past a sealing surface (<NUM>) of the first endcap (<NUM>), and (iii) contacts an internal surface (<NUM>) in the first endcap (<NUM>), (iv) extends beyond a second end (<NUM>) of the elongated transparent housing (<NUM>), (v) extends past a sealing surface (<NUM>) in the second endcap (<NUM>), and (vi) contacts an internal surface (<NUM>) in the second endcap (<NUM>);
wherein the first endcap (<NUM>) comprises an external cooperative surface (<NUM>) and an external mating feature (<NUM>) positioned onto a corresponding mating feature and surface of the first support bracket (<NUM>), the first endcap (<NUM>) has an internal surface (<NUM>) that overlaps a portion of the first end (<NUM>) of the transparent housing (<NUM>); and
wherein the second endcap (<NUM>) comprises an external cooperative surface (<NUM>) and an electrical feedthrough (<NUM>) positioned onto a corresponding mating feature and surface of the second support bracket (<NUM>), the second endcap (<NUM>) has an internal surface (<NUM>) that overlaps a portion of the second end (<NUM>) of the transparent housing (<NUM>).