AU2020267192B2

AU2020267192B2 - Mounting improvements for led light panels

Info

Publication number: AU2020267192B2
Application number: AU2020267192A
Authority: AU
Inventors: William Trevor THREADGOLD
Original assignee: AIR DIFFUSION AGENCIES Pty Ltd
Current assignee: AIR DIFFUSION AGENCIES Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2020-11-10
Filing date: 2020-11-10
Publication date: 2022-09-08
Anticipated expiration: 2040-11-10
Also published as: AU2020103395A4; AU2020267192A1; AU2022224750A1

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a mounting frame for an LED light panel. In a particular form the present invention relates to frame element for a mounting frame for an LED light panel. In one aspect, the or each frame element comprises a first frame element part and a second frame element part, where both the first and the second frame element parts are elongate, with both further comprising a substantially constant cross sectional profile throughout their length, and wherein each of these frame element parts comprise a cooperating connecting portion for joining them together to form the frame element. In a further aspect there resides an LED light frame assembly. 1/8 2 -la Fig.I1 2 -lb 4b77 Fig. 2 :7 lc 4c Fig. 3 2 7vid 4d, Fig. 4 if 210Y Fi. 'F'g.6&

Description

1/8

2 -la

Fig.I1 2 -lb 4b77

Fig. 2

lc 4c :7

Fig. 3

2 7vid

4d,

Fig. 4 if

210Y

Fi. 'F'g.6&

MOUNTING IMPROVEMENTS FOR LED LIGHT PANELS TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a mounting frame for an LED light panel. In a particular form the present invention relates to a frame element for such a mounting frame.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Light emitting diode or "LED" panels are becoming accepted as a general lighting source suitable for replacing incandescent and fluorescent light sources.

[0003] These LED panels are typically mounted in a ceiling or wall surface using a mounting frame which extends around the perimeter of the panel. The mounting frame will typically engage with the surrounding edge of the wall or ceiling with the aid of clips or fasteners, and in the case of ceiling mounting, also be suspended from above.

[0004] A wide range of frame designs exists to cater for both differing functional and aesthetic requirements. Most of these frame elements comprise complex cross-section profiles requiring complex tooling, meaning that they are difficult and costly to manufacture.

[0005] A further consideration is that the LED panels are reasonably heavy. In the event of seismic activity such as a tremor or an earthquake, it is critical that they are not dropped onto people below.

[0006] It is against this background that the present disclosure has been developed.

[0007] Certain objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, wherein, by way of illustration and example, an embodiment of the present invention is disclosed.

SUMMARY

[0008] According to a first aspect, there is provided a mounting frame for an LED light panel, the mounting frame comprising at least one frame element, the or each frame element comprising a first frame element part and a second frame element part, where both the first and the second frame element parts are elongate, with both further comprising a substantially constant cross-sectional profile throughout their length, and wherein each of these frame element parts comprise a cooperating connecting portion for joining them together to form the frame element.

[0009] In one form, one of either of the first frame element part or the second frame element part comprises a male connecting portion, and the other frame element part comprises a female connecting portion configured to receive the male connecting portion so as to join the two frame element parts together.

[0010] In one form, the first frame element part comprises the female connecting portion, and the second frame element part comprises the male connecting portion.

[0011] In one form, the first frame element part comprises across-sectional profile shape comprising a base portion and an upright portion.

[0012] In one form, the base portion of the first frame element part comprises a flange extending normal to the upright portion.

[0013] In one form, the upright portion of the first frame element part comprises the female connecting portion.

[0014] In one form, the second frame element part comprises a cross-sectional profile shape comprising an upright base portion and an upright cantilever tab extending from the upright base portion.

[0015] In one form, when the first and second frame element parts are joined to forma frame element, the upright portion of the first frame element part and the cantilever tab of the second frame element part define an upwardly opening channel between them.

[0016] In one form, the upright base portion of the second frame element comprises the male connecting portion.

[0017] In one form, the second frame element part extends from the upright of the first frame element part on the same side thereof as the flange.

[0018] In one form, the female connecting portion comprises a lengthwise extending groove.

[0019] In one form, the male connecting portion comprises a lengthwise extending tongue.

[0020] In one form, the male and female connecting portions are configured to clinch together.

[0021] In one form, the male and female connecting portions are configured to snap-fit together.

[0022] In one form, the male connecting portion comprises a lengthwise extending bead.

[0023] In one form, the female connecting portion comprises a lengthwise extending channel.

[0024] In one form, the flange of the first frame element part comprises a further connecting portion.

[0025] In one form, in an alternative, the first frame element part comprises the male connecting portion, and the second frame element part comprises the female connecting portion.

[0026] In one form, the first frame element part comprises a further flange extending opposite to the first flange.

[0027] In one form, the further flange extends normal to the upright portion of the first frame element part.

[0028] In one form, the further flange comprises a connecting portion.

[0029] In one form, the further flange curves upwardly.

[0030] In one form, the first and second frame element parts are made from the same material.

[0031] In one form, the first and second frame element parts are made from a metal.

[0032] In one form, the first and second frame element parts are made from aluminium.

[0033] In one form, the first and second frame element parts are made from a polymer.

[0034] In one form, the first and second frame element parts are made from dissimilar materials.

[0035] In one form, the frame comprises a plurality of the frame elements.

[0036] In one form, a rectilinear frame will comprise four of the frame elements.

[0037] In one form, a circular frame comprises a single curved frame element.

[0038] In one form, each of the frame elements of a frame will be substantially identical.

[0039] In one form, in an alternative, at least one frame element differs from a remainder of the elements constituting the frame.

[0040] In one form, a rectilinear mounting frame will comprise two pairs of identical frame elements.

[0041] According to a further aspect, there is provided a mounting frame assembly comprising the above described mounting frame and at least one clip for securing an LED light panel with respect to the mounting frame.

[0042] In one form, the mounting frame assembly further comprises at least one clip for securing the mounting frame assembly with respect to an edge of a wall or ceiling.

[0043] In one form, the mounting frame assembly further comprises a bracket for mounting or suspending the mounting frame with respect to a wall or ceiling.

[0044] In one form, the mounting frame assembly further comprises a hanging element for suspending the assembly from overhead.

[0045] According to a further aspect, there is provided an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel, a mounting frame assembly surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, at least one hanging element secured with respect to the mounting frame assembly for suspending the LED light frame assembly from overhead, and a tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the hanging element and the LED light panel.

[0046] According to a further aspect, there is provided an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel, a mounting frame assembly surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, at least one hanging element secured with respect to the mounting frame assembly for suspending the LED light frame assembly from overhead, and a tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the mounting frame assembly and the LED light panel.

[0047] According to a further aspect, there is provided a hanging element for suspending an LED light frame assembly from an overhead structure, the hanging element comprising a tether element extending therefrom which terminates in an end configured for securement with respect to the LED light panel.

[0048] In one form, the hanging element is flexible.

[0049] In one form, the tether element is flexible.

[0050] In one form, in an alternative, the hanging element is rigid. In one form, the hanging element is semi-rigid.

[0051] According to a further aspect, there is provided amounting frame assembly for an LED light panel, the mounting frame assembly comprising a frame comprising at least one frame element and configured to mount an LED light panel, the mounting frame assembly further comprising a tether element secured with respect to the frame and configured to connect with respect to the LED light panel so as to tether the LED light panel with respect to the frame.

[0052] In one form, the mounting frame assembly further comprises at least one hanging element secured with respect thereto, and configured for suspending the frame assembly from overhead.

[0053] In one form, the tether element extends from the hanging element.

[0054] In one form, the mounting frame is configured to surround the LED light panel.

[0055] According to a further aspect, there is provided a mounting frame assembly, wherein the or each frame element comprises a first frame element part and a second frame element part, where both the first and the second frame element parts are elongate, with both further comprising a substantially constant cross-sectional profile throughout their length, and wherein each of these frame element parts comprise a cooperating connecting portion for joining them together to form the frame element.

[0056] In a further aspect, there is provided an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel, the mounting frame assembly being as described above, surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, at least one hanging element secured with respect to the frame for suspending the LED light frame assembly from overhead, and a tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the hanging element and the LED light panel.

[0057] In a further aspect, there is provided an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel, and the mounting frame assembly, the frame surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, and the tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the frame and the LED light panel.

[0058] In a further aspect, there is provided an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel, a mounting frame assembly comprising a frame surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, at least one hanging element secured with respect to the frame for suspending the LED light frame assembly from overhead, and a tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the hanging element and the LED light panel.

[0059] In a further aspect, there is provided an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel, a mounting frame assembly comprising a frame surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, at least one hanging element secured with respect to the frame for suspending the LED light frame assembly from overhead, and a tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the frame and the LED light panel.

[0060] In a further aspect, there is provided a mounting frame assembly for an LED light panel, the mounting frame assembly comprising a frame comprising at least one frame element and configured to mount an LED light panel, the mounting frame assembly further comprising: at least one hanging element secured with respect to the frame and configured for suspending the frame assembly from overhead; and a tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the hanging element and the LED light panel so as to tether the LED light panel with respect to the frame.

[0061] For ease of description, a frame element and mounting frame embodying the present invention is described below in its usual assembled position as shown in the accompanying drawings and terms such as front, rear, upper, lower, horizontal, longitudinal, etc. may be used with reference to this usual position. However, the frame element and mounting frame may be manufactured, transported, sold, or used in orientations other than that described and shown here.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0062] Embodiments of the present disclosure will be discussed with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0063] Figure 1 is an isometric view of an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel framed by a mounting frame according to a first embodiment;

[0064] Figure 2 is an isometric view of an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel framed by a mounting frame according to a second embodiment;

[0065] Figure 3 is an isometric view of an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel framed by a mounting frame according to a third embodiment;

[0066] Figure 4 is an isometric view of an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel framed by a mounting frame according to a fourth embodiment;

[0067] Figure 5 is an isometric view of an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel framed by a mounting frame according to a fifth embodiment;

[0068] Figure 6 is an isometric view of an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel framed by a mounting frame according to a sixth embodiment;

[0069] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a frame element according to a first embodiment;

[0070] Figure 8 is a perspective view of an end of a frame element very similar to that of Figure 7;

[0071] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of a frame element according to a second embodiment;

[0072] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of a frame element according to a third embodiment;

[0073]Figure11isacross-sectionalviewofaframeelementaccordingtoafourthembodiment;

[0074] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of a frame element according to a fifth embodimentwitha baffle engaged therewith;

[0075] Figure 13 is a perspective view of an end of the frame element of Figure 7, with a spring clip engaged therewith;

[0076] Figure 14 is a perspective view of an end of the frame element of Figure 7, with a hanging bracket engaged therewith;

[0077] Figure 15 is a perspective view of an end of the frame element of Figure 7, with a ceiling mounting bracket engaged therewith;

[0078] Figure 16 is a perspective view of an end of the frame element of Figure 7, with a seismic tethering bracket engaged therewith;

[0079] Figure 17 is a perspective view of an end of a frame element according to a further embodiment, with a retaining clip engaged therewith;

[0080] Figure 18 is a perspective view of an end of the frame element and baffle of Figure 12;

[0081] Figure 19 is a perspective view of a portion of an LED light panel frame assembly comprising a seismic tether arrangement, according to a first embodiment;

[0082] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a portion of an LED light panel frame assembly comprising a seismic tether arrangement, according to a second embodiment; and

[0083] Figure 21 is a perspective view of a portion of an LED light panel frame assembly comprising a seismic tether arrangement, according to a third embodiment.

[0084] In the following description, like reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the figures.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0085] Referring to Figure 1, where there is illustrated an LED light frame assembly la comprising a ) rectangular LED light panel 2 framed by a mounting frame 4a. The mounting frame 4a is comprised of four frame elements, comprising two longer side frame elements and two shorter end frame elements. All of these frame elements comprise the same cross-sectional profile shape, where this shape comprises an outwardly directed flange.

[0086] Referring to Figure 2, where there is illustrated an LED light frame assembly lb comprising a rectangular LED light panel 2 framed by a mounting frame 4b according to a further embodiment. The mounting frame 4b is comprised of four frame elements, comprising two longer side frame elements and two shorter end frame elements. All of these frame elements comprise the same cross-sectional profile shape, where this shape comprises an outwardly boxed edge profile.

[0087] Referring to Figure 3, where there is illustrated an LED light frame assembly il comprising a rectangular LED light panel 2 framed by a mounting frame 4c according to a further embodiment. The mounting frame 4c is comprised of four frame elements, comprising two longer side frame elements and two shorter end frame elements. The two side frame elements comprise a different cross-sectional profile shape to the end frame elements. The two side frame elements comprise an outwardly directed flange with a lengthwise extending flute.

[0088] Referring to Figure 4, where there is illustrated an LED light frame assembly Id comprising a rectangular LED light panel 2 framed by a mounting frame 4d according to a further embodiment. The mounting frame 4d is comprised of four frame elements, comprising two longer side frame elements and two shorter end frame elements. The two side frame elements comprise a different cross-sectional profile shape to the end frame elements. The two side frame elements comprise an outwardly directed flange with a series of lengthwise extending flutes, and a baffle extending behind each of the flanges.

[0089] Referring to Figure 5, where there is illustrated an LED light frame assembly le comprising a square LED light panel 3 framed by a mounting frame 4e. The mounting frame 4e is comprised of four equal length frame elements. All of these frame elements comprise the same cross-sectional profile shape, where this shape comprises an outwardly directed flange.

[0090] Referring to Figure 6, where there is illustrated an LED light frame assembly If comprising a square LED light panel 3 framed by a mounting frame 4f. The mounting frame 4f is comprised of four equal length frame elements. All of these frame elements comprise the same cross-sectional profile shape, where this shape comprises an outwardly boxed edge profile.

[0091] Referring now to Figures 7 and 8, where there is illustrated a frame element 100 for amounting frame for an LED light panel, the frame element 100 comprising a first frame element part 101 and a second frame element part 102, where both the first and the second frame element parts 101 and 102 are elongate, with both further comprising a substantially constant cross-sectional profile throughout their length, and wherein each of these frame element parts 101 and 102 comprise a cooperating connecting portion 112 and 114 respectively, forjoining them together to form the frame element 100.

[0092] The first frame element part 101 comprises a cross-sectional profile shape comprising a base portion 104 and an upright portion 106. The base portion 104 comprises a flange extending normal to the upright portion 106.

[0093] The second frame element part 102 comprises a cross-sectional profile shape comprising an upright base portion 108 and a cantilever tab 110 extending from the upright base portion 108. The cantilever tab 110 initially extends outwardly from the base portion 108 before turning and extending upwardly before terminating at a barb 111.

[0094] In this embodiment, the upright portion 106 of the first frame element part 101 comprises a female connecting portion 112, and the upright base portion 108 of the second frame element part 102 comprises a male connecting portion 114.

[0095] More particularly, the female connecting portion 112 comprises a lengthwise extending groove, and the male connecting portion 114 comprises a lengthwise extending tongue configured to locate in the groove 112.

[0096] The female connecting portion or groove 112 extends lengthwise between a pair of lengthwise extending sidewalls 113 that project from the upright portion 106 of the first frame element part 101, where each of these sidewalls 113 comprises an inwardly turned tip 113a.

[0097] The male connecting portion or tongue 114 is provided by the upright base portion 108 of the second frame element part 102. That is to say, they are one and the same. This tongue 114 extends lengthwise along the second frame element part 102, and is of such a width and thickness as to fit in the groove 112, and be retained between the sidewalls 113 and their inwardly turned tips 113a.

[0098] In the case of the frame element 10 illustrated, both the first and the second frame element parts 101 and 102 are extruded from aluminium. It should be understood however, that other materials could be employed, and that indeed the first and the second frame element parts 101 and 102 could be made from dissimilar materials.

[0099] With the tongue 114 inserted in the groove 112 the sidewalls 113 can be clinched around the groove 112 to firmly secure the first and the second frame element parts 101 and 102 together to form the frame element 100. Welding or an adhesive could be used as an alternative to this clinching.

[00100] When the first and second frame elements parts 101 and 102 are joined to form a frame element 100, the second frame element part 102 extends from the upright 106 of the first frame element part 101 on the same side thereof as the flange 104, and the upright portion 106 of the first frame element part 101 and the cantilever tab 110 of the second frame element part 102 define an upwardly opening channel 120 between them.

[00101] An upper side of the flange 104 of the first frame element part 101 of frame element 100 comprises a further lengthwise extending groove 116, similar to that of groove 112. This might be used for the connection of associated clips or brackets.

[00102] Four of the frame elements 100 can be used to form a mounting frame 4b or 4f like that illustrated in either of Figures 2 or 6.

[00103] Referring now to Figure 9, where there is illustrated a frame element 140 according to a further embodiment. Those parts of the frame element 140 which are identical (or near-identical) to corresponding parts shown in the frame element 1 of Figures 7 and 8, will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again in detail.

[00104] Frame element 140 comprises a further flange 142 extending opposite to the first flange 104. This further flange 142 curves upwardly. A frame assembly formed from frame elements 140 having this profile will have a curved outer edge.

[00105] Referring now to Figure 10, where there is illustrated a frame element 150 according to a further embodiment. Those parts of the frame element 150 which are identical (or near-identical) to corresponding parts shown in the frame element 1 of Figures 7 and 8, will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again in detail.

[00106] Frame element 150 comprises a further flange 152 extending opposite to the first flange 104. This further flange 152 is coplanar with the first flange 104. This further flange 152 comprises a further lengthwise extending groove 154, similar to that of groove 112, but wider.

[00107] Four of the frame elements 150 can be used to form a mounting frame 4a or 4e like that illustrated in either of Figures 1 or 5.

[00108] Referring now to Figure 11, where there is illustrated a frame element 160 according to a further embodiment. Those parts of the frame element 160 which are identical (or near- identical) to corresponding parts shown in the frame element 1 of Figures 7 and 8, will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again in detail.

[00109] Frame element 160 comprises a further flange 162 extending opposite to the first flange 104. This further flange 162 is coplanar with the first flange 104, but wider.

[00110] Two of the frame elements 160 can be used to form the longer sides of the mounting frame 4c of Figure 3.

[00111] Referring now to Figures 12 and 18, where there is illustrated a frame element 170 according to a further embodiment. Those parts of the frame element 170 which are identical (or near identical) to corresponding parts shown in the frame element 1 of Figures 7 and 8, will be denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described again in detail.

[00112] Frame element 170 comprises a further flange 172 extending opposite to the first flange 104. This further flange 172 is coplanar with the first flange 104, but is considerably wider.

[00113] Frame element 170 further comprises a baffle 174 which extends upward and then away from a tongue 176 engaged with a groove 178 on the upright 106 of the first frame element part 101.

[00114] Two of the frame elements 170 can be used to form the longer sides of the mounting frame 4d illustrated in Figure 4.

[00115] It can be seen from the frame element embodiments discussed above, that the second frame element part 102 is common to each embodiment, while the first frame element part 101 varies, with different frame element parts 102 having different profile shapes. These various frame element parts 102 comprise various profiles to permit different frame configurations to suit various design and installation requirements. Moreover, dividing the profile into these two frame elements 101 and 102 simplifies the profile of each frame element, and thus the tooling required to produce each frame element in turn, which has the effect of reducing the cost of this tooling.

[00116] Referring now to Figure 13, where there is illustrated a frame element 100 and a spring clip 180 engaged in the channel 120 thereof. The spring clip 180 is a moulded plastic item comprising a base 182 shaped to locate in the channel 120 and a downwardly directed cantilever snap 184. The cantilever tab 110 of the frame element 100 comprises a slot through which the cantilever snap 184 may extend. In use, an edge of the LED light panel 2 is retained between the flange 104 and the cantilever snap 184 of the spring clip 180 to help secure the LED light panel 2 with respect to the mounting frame.

[00117] Referring now to Figure 14, where there is illustrated a frame element 100 and a hanging bracket 186 engaged in the channel 120 thereof. The hanging bracket 186 is an extruded aluminium item comprising a base 188 shaped to locate in the channel 120 and an upwardly extending tab 190 comprising an aperture 192 for tether attachment. In use, a mounting frame can be suspended from a tether via the hanging bracket 186.

[00118] Referring now to Figure 15, where there is illustrated a frame element 100 and a ceiling mounting bracket 194 engaged in the channel 120 thereof. The ceiling mounting bracket 194 is an extruded aluminium item comprising a base 196 shaped to locate in the channel 120 and a tab 198 extending at a right angle from the base 196 comprising an aperture 199 for receiving a fastener. In use, the ceiling mounting bracket 194 could be used to secure the mounting frame assembly with respect to an overhead structure by driving a fastener through the aperture 199.

[00119] Referring now to Figure 16, where there is illustrated a frame element 100 and a tethering bracket 200 engaged in the channel 120 thereof. The tethering bracket 200 is an extruded aluminium item comprising a base 202 shaped to locate in the channel 120 and a tab 204 formed into an inverted u-shape and comprising an aperture 206 for tether attachment. Use of such a bracket will be discussed below.

[00120] Referring now to Figure 17, where there is illustrated a frame element according to a further embodiment and a spring clip 210 engaged in a groove provided on an upright of the frame element. The spring clip 210 comprises a moulded plastic base 212 shaped to locate in the groove and a moulded plastic finger 214 which is pivotably attached to the base 212 and biased by a spring 216 extending between the base 212 and the finger 214. In use, an edge of the ceiling or wall is retained between the flange 104 and the finger 214 of the spring clip 210 to help secure the mounting frame and the LED light panel 2 with it in the ceiling or wall. While not shown, a plurality of these spring clips 210 will be employed at positions spaced apart around the frame assembly.

[00121] Referring now to Figure 19, where there is illustrated an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel 2 surrounded by a mounting frame assembly. The frame assembly is formed from a plurality of frame elements similar to the frame element 160 illustrated in Figure 11. A spring clip 180 like that illustrated in Figure 13 aids in retention of the LED light panel 2 in the frame. While not shown, a plurality of these spring clips 180 will be employed at positions spaced apart around the frame assembly.

[00122] The frame assembly further comprises a tethering bracket 200 like that illustrated in Figure 16. The tethering bracket 200 is secured with respect to a hanging element 220. In use, the LED light frame assembly will be suspended from overhead structure by a plurality of these hanging elements 220. In the embodiment illustrated the hanging element 220 is a flexible one, comprising a cable 222 in this instance, however a rigid or semi-rigid hanging element could be substituted. The cable 222 is looped at its ends and crimped back on itself using swage ferrules 224. A tether element 230 extends between the hanger element 220 and a bracket 226 secured with respect to the LED light panel 2. The tether element 230 is a flexible one too, being a cable 232 also in this embodiment. In use, in a seismic event, should the LED light panel work loose from the frame assembly, the tether element 230 will prevent the LED light panel 2 from being dropped, and more particularly prevent it from being dropped on to people below.

[00123] The tether element 230 is secured to the hanging element 220 using a swage ferrule 224. The tether element 230 is secured with respect to the bracket on the LED light panel 2 by a releasable clip. The cable 232 is secured to the releasable clip by being looped and crimped back onto itself using a swage ferrule 224. In this way, the LED light panel 2 can be separated from the tether element 230 if it should be in need of repair or replacement.

[00124] Conceivably, rather than utilising a tethering bracket 200, the hanging element 220 and tether element 230 could be secured with respect to a hole drilled in the frame element. However, the tethering bracket 200 provides a connection point engineered to be fit for this purpose, thereby providing increased assurance that the connection point for the hanging element 220 and tether element 230 will not fail in a seismic event. To this end, the tethering brackets 200 might be brightly coloured (red for instance) to identify them as a hanging and tethering connection point.

[00125] Referring now to Figure 20, where there is illustrated a tether element 230 extending between the tethering bracket 200 (as opposed to the hanging element 220 as per Figure 19) and the LED light panel 2. The tether element 230 is secured to the tethering bracket 200 by being looped through the aperture in the tethering bracket 200 and crimped back on itself using a swage ferrule 224. This arrangement is useful at positions where a seismic tether is required but a hanging element 220 is not.

[00126] Referring now to Figure 21, where the tether element 230 again extends between the hanging element 220 and the LED panel 2 as it does in Figure 19, but in this case it is secured with respect to each by a releasable clip 228. With this arrangement it is easy to retrofit a tether element 230.

[00127] A further advantage of the tethering bracket 200 is illustrated in Figure 21. The tab 204 is directed away from the LED light panel 2, which has the effect of keeping the releasable clip 228 clear of the LED light panel 2 during installation and subsequent servicing or replacement.

[00128] Disclosed herein is a useful alternative to known mounting frames for LED light panels, and the frame elements for these, along with a useful alternative for tethering an LED light panel to a mounting frame to prevent it from being dropped during a seismic event.

[00129] Throughout the specification and the claims that follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the words "comprise" and "include" and variations such as "comprising" and "including" will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or group of integers, but not the exclusion of any other integer or group of integers.

) [00130] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not, and should not be taken as, an acknowledgement of any form of suggestion that such prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

[00131] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention is not restricted in its use to the particular application described. Neither is the present invention restricted in its preferred embodiment with regard to the particular elements and/or features described or depicted herein. It will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to the embodiment or embodiments disclosed, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications and substitutions without departing from the scope of the invention as set forth and defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A mounting frame assembly for an LED light panel, the mounting frame assembly comprising a frame comprising at least one frame element and configured to mount an LED light panel, the mounting frame assembly further comprising: at least one hanging element secured with respect to the frame and configured for suspending the frame assembly from overhead; and a tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the hanging element and the LED light panel so as to tether the LED light panel with respect to the frame.

2. The mounting frame assembly of claim 1, wherein the tether element is flexible.

3. The mounting frame assembly as in either of claims 1 or 2, wherein the hanging element is flexible.

4. The mounting frame assembly as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the mounting frame is configured to surround the LED light panel.

5. The mounting frame assembly as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the or each frame element comprises a first frame element part and a second frame element part, where both the first and the second frame element parts are elongate, with both further comprising a substantially constant cross sectional profile throughout their length, and wherein each of these frame element parts comprise a cooperating connecting portion for joining them together to form the frame element.

6. The mounting frame assembly as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein one of either of the first frame element part or the second frame element part comprises a male connecting portion, and the other frame element part comprises a female connecting portion configured to receive the male connecting portion so as to join the two frame element parts together.

7. The mounting frame assembly of claim 6, wherein the first frame element part comprises the female connecting portion, and the second frame element part comprises the male connecting portion.

8. The mounting frame assembly as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first frame element part comprises a cross-sectional profile shape comprising a base portion and an upright portion, where the base portion comprises a flange extending normal to the upright portion.

9. The mounting frame assembly of claim 8, wherein the upright portion of the first frame element part comprises the female connecting portion.

10. The mounting frame assembly as in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second frame element part comprises a cross-sectional profile shape comprising an upright base portion and an upright ) cantilever tab extending from the upright base portion.

11. The mounting frame assembly of claim 10, wherein, when the first and second frame elements parts are joined to form a frame element, the upright portion of the first frame element part and the cantilever tab of the second frame element part define an upwardly opening channel between them.

12. The mounting frame assembly as in either of claims 10 or 11, wherein the upright base portion of the second frame element comprises the male connecting portion.

13. The mounting frame assembly of claim 12, wherein the second frame element part extends from the upright of the first frame element part on the same side thereof as the flange.

14. The mounting frame assembly as in any one of claims 6 through 13, wherein the female connecting portion comprises a lengthwise extending groove.

15. The mounting frame assembly as in any one of claims 6 through 14, wherein the male connecting portion comprises a lengthwise extending tongue.

16. The mounting frame assembly as in any one of claims 6 through 15, wherein the male connecting portion is clinched around the female connecting portion.

17. An LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel, the mounting frame assembly as in any one of the preceding claims, surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, at least one hanging element secured with respect to the frame for suspending the LED light frame assembly from overhead, and the tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the hanging element and the LED light panel.

18. An LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel, and the mounting frame assembly as in any one of claims 1 through 16, the frame surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, and the tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the frame and the LED light panel.

19. An LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel, a mounting frame assembly comprising a frame surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, at least one hanging element secured with respect to the frame for suspending the LED light frame assembly from overhead, and a tether element extending between and secured with respect to each of the hanging element and the LED light panel.

20. A hanging element for suspending an LED light frame assembly comprising an LED light panel and a mounting frame assembly comprising a frame surrounding and secured with respect to the LED light panel, from an overhead structure, the hanging element comprising a tether element extending therefrom which terminates in an end configured for securement with respect to the LED light panel.

21. The hanging element of claim 20, wherein the hanging element is flexible.

22. The hanging element as in either of claims 20 or 21, wherein the tether element is flexible.