CA1333791C - Lighting fixture with diffuser for light and air - Google Patents
Lighting fixture with diffuser for light and airInfo
- Publication number
- CA1333791C CA1333791C CA000613842A CA613842A CA1333791C CA 1333791 C CA1333791 C CA 1333791C CA 000613842 A CA000613842 A CA 000613842A CA 613842 A CA613842 A CA 613842A CA 1333791 C CA1333791 C CA 1333791C
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- panel
- fixture
- nozzle
- air
- base
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Fee Related
Links
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
- F21S45/00—Arrangements within vehicle lighting devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, for purposes other than emission or distribution of light
- F21S45/40—Cooling of lighting devices
- F21S45/42—Forced cooling
- F21S45/43—Forced cooling using gas
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
- F21S41/00—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps
- F21S41/10—Illuminating devices specially adapted for vehicle exteriors, e.g. headlamps characterised by the light source
- F21S41/19—Attachment of light sources or lamp holders
- F21S41/192—Details of lamp holders, terminals or connectors
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Arrangement Of Elements, Cooling, Sealing, Or The Like Of Lighting Devices (AREA)
- Arrangements Of Lighting Devices For Vehicle Interiors, Mounting And Supporting Thereof, Circuits Therefore (AREA)
- Duct Arrangements (AREA)
- Cage And Drive Apparatuses For Elevators (AREA)
Abstract
A fixture for a fluorescent lamp includes a diffuser panel. The diffuser panel has a frame and longitudinal elements supported by the frame and spaced apart from one another. At least some of the elements are constructed of a material to allow diffusion of impinging light. Preferred materials are translucent or transparent, such as glass or plastic. The diffuser panel also functions as an air diffuser.
Provision of a nozzle in the base of the fixture allows air to flow through the panel by a sucking effect created by high velocity forced air flowing through the nozzle. This results in fixture cleaning and temperature equalization. The fixture is particularly adapted to be mounted in a moving vehicle. For this purpose, the panel is designed to be tamper-resistant and to provide easy maintenance. The diffuser panel, when a latch is opened, may be lowered by rotation to provide access to the lamp and ballast. When the fixture is installed in a public vehicle, a handrail is provided which forms part of the panel lowering mechanism. Other arrangements provide a fixture having a diffuser with a central open portion and a pair of side panels extending across the ceiling of a vehicle. A pair of nozzle elements are disposed above each side panel. Again, high velocity air directed through one portion of a nozzle element will cause air to be drawn through the open central portion of the fixture. Either the entire diffuser or the side panels may be lowered to clean the fixture or replace the lamps.
Provision of a nozzle in the base of the fixture allows air to flow through the panel by a sucking effect created by high velocity forced air flowing through the nozzle. This results in fixture cleaning and temperature equalization. The fixture is particularly adapted to be mounted in a moving vehicle. For this purpose, the panel is designed to be tamper-resistant and to provide easy maintenance. The diffuser panel, when a latch is opened, may be lowered by rotation to provide access to the lamp and ballast. When the fixture is installed in a public vehicle, a handrail is provided which forms part of the panel lowering mechanism. Other arrangements provide a fixture having a diffuser with a central open portion and a pair of side panels extending across the ceiling of a vehicle. A pair of nozzle elements are disposed above each side panel. Again, high velocity air directed through one portion of a nozzle element will cause air to be drawn through the open central portion of the fixture. Either the entire diffuser or the side panels may be lowered to clean the fixture or replace the lamps.
Description
~IG~TING FIXTURE WIT~ DIFFUS~R
FOR ~IG~T AND AIR
BACKGROUND OF T~E INVENTION
Field of the Invention The pre~ent invention relates to fluorescent fixtures having light diffusers and, more particularly, such fixtures for use in ~oving vehicles which also include air diffusers.
Description of the Related Art Many existing public vehicles have antiquated fluores-cent fixtures. These fixtures were installed many years ago when the vehicles were new and often little attention was paid at that time to providing fixtures which had adequate light diffusers. Also, for such fixtures, a requirement exists for providing air diffusion air temperature mixing, and the limiting of downward air velocities upon vehicle passengers. With additional requirements for allowing easy maintenance for these fixtures and for making the fixtures vandal-resistant, such fixtures and diffusers are difficult to design since sig-nificant tradeoffs are necessary in order to meet all desired conditions.
One particular application for such improved desi~n is the needed replacement of the existing fluorescent fixtures in the cars of the London subway system. Such cars have open fluorescent fixtures disposed in two parallel paths along the 7~
.
,~ , ..
FOR ~IG~T AND AIR
BACKGROUND OF T~E INVENTION
Field of the Invention The pre~ent invention relates to fluorescent fixtures having light diffusers and, more particularly, such fixtures for use in ~oving vehicles which also include air diffusers.
Description of the Related Art Many existing public vehicles have antiquated fluores-cent fixtures. These fixtures were installed many years ago when the vehicles were new and often little attention was paid at that time to providing fixtures which had adequate light diffusers. Also, for such fixtures, a requirement exists for providing air diffusion air temperature mixing, and the limiting of downward air velocities upon vehicle passengers. With additional requirements for allowing easy maintenance for these fixtures and for making the fixtures vandal-resistant, such fixtures and diffusers are difficult to design since sig-nificant tradeoffs are necessary in order to meet all desired conditions.
One particular application for such improved desi~n is the needed replacement of the existing fluorescent fixtures in the cars of the London subway system. Such cars have open fluorescent fixtures disposed in two parallel paths along the 7~
.
,~ , ..
2 1 3~3791 car ceiling. The fixtures have no diffusers of any kind and the lamps in the fixtures may be readily bro~en either acciden-tally or by vandals. Further, the glare of the lamps is un-pleasant and the lamps provide levels of light which are con-sidered excessive for normal reading. The lighting effect isnot aesthetic to the viewer, in general. The ballasts for the lamps are also generally difficult to reach for purposes of servicing.
Other prior vehicle lighting systems which integrate the air circulation system of the vehicle with the lighting system do not provide direct/indirect light with reduced glare and limit downward velocities.
OB~ECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention, therefore, to provide a fluorescent light fixture having an improved light diffuser.
15It is also an object of the invention to provide an improved light diffuser for a fluorescent light fixture which also functions as an air diffuser.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a combined light diffuser and air diffuser for a fluorescent 20light fixture which is simple to service and maintain.
It is still a further object of the invention to provide a combined light diffuser and air diffuser for a fluorescent light fixture which is tamper- and vandal-resis-tant.
25It is another object of the invention to provide a combined light diffuser and air diffuser for a fluorescent light fixture which is self-cleaning.
It is yet another object of the invention to provide a fluorescent light fixture having a combined light diffuser and 30air diffuser adapted for use in a public vehicle which also incorporates a handrail as an integral part of the fixture.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a combined light diffuser and air diffuser for a fluorescent light fixture which is adapted to be constructed by 35extrusion techniques.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a fluorescent light fixture having a combined light diffuser and 1 3~3791 air diff~ser for use in vehicle col~partments which also provides improved mixing and temperature equalization of the ccmpartment air.
SU~MARY OP T~ INV~NTION
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a fluorescent lamp fixture useful for providing light which comprises a base, a light diffusing panel that has openings therein, a fluorescent lamp located between the base and the panel, a means for mounting together the panel, the lamp, and the base, and a nozzle means for creating a venturi effect which sucks air upward through the openings in the panel.
In another embodiment, there is provided a fixture for a fluorescent lamp having a light diffuser comprising a base and a light ~iffusing panel mounted to the base and having mounting and electrical connection means for receiving a fluorescent lamp. The lamp mounting and connection means are located on a surface of the panel facing the base. The panel has openings therein for inducing warmer air to move upward through the panel. This action causes ~ix-ing of cool and the warmer air, avoids down drafts on passengers and promotes cleaning of such lamp and panel. The fixture includes hinge means supporting a first side of the panel and being affixed to the base for allowing the panel to be rotated about the hinge means. Also included are openable latch means having a portion affixed to the base and a portion affixed to a second side of the panel and supportir.g the second side. The latch means, when opened, permit lcwering of the panel by rotation about the hinge means for allowing cleaning and maintenance of the fixture.
Also, in accordance with the present invention, a fixture for a fluorescent lamp having a diffuser for light and air comprises a base, a light and air diffusing panel, and nozzle means incorporated in the base. The light and air diffusing panel is mounted to the base and has mounting and electrical connection means for receiving a fluorescent lamp.
The lamp mounting and connectior. means are located on a surface of the panel facing the base. The panel has openings therein for allowing air to circulate throuqh the panel to allow ~ , .
3a air temperature mixing within the fixture and also cleaning of the panel.
The nozzle means has an entrance on the side of the base facing away from the panel and an exit on the side of the base facing toward the panel. The exit directs emerging air in a direc~ion substan-tially parallel to the base. The nozzle means allows air to be pulled through the panel by suction action caused by an air Ser~-~ moving tb~ h t~e ~oz Further, in a-cordance with the invention, a diffuser panel for a fluorescent lamp fixture comprises a frame and lon-gitudinal elements supported by the frame and spaced apart from one another, at least some of the elements being constructed of a material to allow diffusion of impinging light.
A still further aspect of the present invention encompasses a fluorescent light fixture for a passenger vehicle comprising means for mounting at least one fluorescent lamp, a diffuser having a central portion with openings therein and a pair of translucent side panels being disposed below the lamp and nozzle means disposed above the diffuser having a primary path and a narrow secondary path. The primary path has an entrance facing away from the diffuser and is adapted to be supplied with a high velocity air stream and has an exit directed toward the side of the vehicle. The primary path narrows from entrance to exit. The secondary path has an entrance directed toward the central portion of the diffuser and an exit which forms a junction with the primary path so that high velocity air directed through the primary path will cause air to be sucked upwardly through the central portion of the diffuser into the secondary path.
For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following description and accompanying drawings, while the scope of the present invention will be pointed out in the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the drawings:
Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of a railway car fitted with fluorescent fixture assemblies in accordance with the invention;
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view along 2-2 of Figure 1 particularly illustrating the arrangement of the fixture assemblies within the car;
Figure 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view along 3-3 of Figure 1 illustrating the fluorescent fixture of the present invention in detail, including location of the diffuser panel when opened for servicing;
5 1 33379~
Figure 4A and Figure 4B are elevational views, partly broken away, taken along 4A,B-4A,B of Fig. 3, of the panel latch in closed and open position, respectively;
Figure 5 is an enlarged bottom view of the diffuser panel; and Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of another embodi-ment illustrating longitudinal diffusing members having differing cross-sections.
Figures 7, 8 and 9 illustrate, in cross-section, three additional embodiments of the invention having lowerable panels and a nozzle arrangement for air circulation through the fixture.
DESCRIPTION OF TE~E PREFE~ D E~3ODIM~3NTS
Referring initially to Figures 1 and 2, a subway car 10 is depicted in which fluorescent lamp fixtures 11 in accordance with the invention have been installed. The installation of the fixtures is made to the ceiling 12 of the car adjacent to vertical supporting pole 13. The fixtures 11 are designed to have identical repeated sections, each section capable of accommodating a 48 inch fluorescent lamp (T12 size). A portion of each fixture section includes a handrail 21 for being grasped by passengers. The side-to-side juxtaposition of the repeated fixture sections creates, in effect, a continuous handrail on either side of the car.
Referring now to Figure 3, the details of the construc-tion of a fluorescent fixture section 11 are illustrated. Each fixture section includes a fixture base 15 which is affixed to the ceiling 12 of the subway car by means not shown. To the base lS is attached a diffuser panel 14. The panel 14 is mounted so as to be substantially parallel to the base 15. The diffuser panel 14 includes a frame 16 which supports a plural-ity of longitudinal elements 17.
The longitudinal elements 17 are spaced apart from one another and, in a preferred arrangement, are substantially parallel to one another. They are preferably constructed of transparent or translucent material to refract, reflect and diffuse impinging light from a fluorescent lamp mounted above 6 1 33~791 the panel. The preferred arrangement of Figure 3 illustrates tubular, hollow, slass elements 17. Tempered glass is pre-ferred for this application.
De~ending on the application, longitudinal elements having differing cross-sections may be desired. Figure 6 illustrates an embodiment of a diffuser panel 11' showing elements 17' having triangular and rectangular cross-sections in a single panel. Lamp 19 is shown above the longitudinal elements 17' in this view.
The materials possible for use in such panel may also be selected in accordance with the nature of light diffusion desired, as well as such other factors as cost, ease of manufacture and ability to withstand breakage. Transparent or translucent plastic material is within the scope of the invention, particularly clear acrylic plastic sold under the trade name "LUCITE" and a clear polycarbonate plastic sold under the trade name "LEXAN". Purely reflective or absorptive materials are also possible, such as polished or anodized aluminum rods made by extrusion.
The shape and spacing of the longitudinal elements are designed to permit dust and dirt to fall through the panel when no forced air is provided to the panel. When forced air is provided to the panel, as in a manner to be discussed below, the panel and longitudinal elements also function as an air diffuser. The diffuser panel 14 is attached to the base lS on either side of the frame 16. On one side, a hinged support 21 is provided. On the other side, the panel is supported by at least one panel latch 22. In a preferred arrangement, two panel latches are required for each section. The latch 22 has a portion affixed to the base and a portion affixed to the panel frame 16. To avoid unauthorized opening of the panel latch, a pair of panel latch releases 23 are provided for each fixture section which have a keying arrangement. The keying arrangement requires that a special tool be used to open the fixture.
The hinged support 21 serves a dual function. The support permits the panel to be lowered, when the latches 22 are opened, by rotation about the axis of the hinge. Along the axis of the hinge, in this preferred embodiment, a handrail is arranged for passengers to grasp.
A rotation-limiting mechanism 24 is provided to prevent the panel, when unlatched, from immediately dropping to a fully rotated position. The mechanism includes a hinge support 25 affixed to the base which cooperates with a rod 25a. Affixed to the end of the rod 25a is a camming element 26. A camming groove 27 is provided in a camming guide affixed to one side of the panel frame 16. The shape of the camming groove is such that, when the panel is opened, the cam 26a will travel only a short distance to 27'. In order to obtain full descent of the panel, it is necessary to raise the panel slightly to allow the cam 26 to travel to 27" in t~e camming groove 27.
Fluorescent lamp mounting members 18 are provided for allowing the lamp lg to be installed and electrically connected in each fixture section. These members 18 are preferably mounted on opposite end portions of the panel frame 16 so that the lamp is centrally located above the longi~udinal members 17 and substantially parallel to them.
A fluorescent ballast 20 is also mounted in the fixture section, preferably on one end of the panel frame. While the ballast 20 and lamp 19 could also be mounted to the base 15, there is a significant advantage in ease of maintenance to have these elements more readily accessible to a service person upon lowering of the panel. This lowering operation is shown in phantom lines in Fig 3. The panel 14 is first rotated to a position 14' in the direction A and, finally, to a position 14". In this position, the lamp and ballast are readily accessible for servicing.
A top view of the panel and fixture shown in Figure 5 indicates the relative arrangement of the lamp 19 and ballast 20 with respect to the frame 16. Ballast 20 is mounted on an end portion of frame 16. Lamping mounting members 18 are mounted on opposite end portions of frame 16 to allow the lamp 19 to extend therebetween. Other elements bear like numerals to those elements shown in Fig. 3.
A principal feature of the fluorescent fixture 11 is the provision of nozzle or nozzles 28. Nozzle 28 is installed in base 15 so that the entrance of the nozzle is above the base while the exit 30 of the nozzle is below the base. The nozzle entrance has a larger cross-sectional area than the exit; the cross-sectional area gradually decreases from entrance to exit.
Provision of a high velocity stream of air 31 in the direction of arrow 31 will cause an area of negative pressure 29 below the nozzle exit 30. This, in turn, will cause by suction air from below the fixture to flow through the fixture, 32, to join the high velocity air at the nozzle exit. This effect is commonly known as a Venturi effect. The overall result will be to impr~ve air circulation and equalize tempera-ture distribution in the car. The high velocity air stream may be provided by warming or cooling air normally circulating in the car.
The nozzles 28 thus induct air from a room cavity to join the emitted air from a central forced-air heating or cooling equipment source. The combined mixed air is controlled in a preferred direction by orienting the nozzle appropriately.
The induced vertical flow provides a cleansing of loose particles from the paths of light and maintains the full spacing between the longitudinal diffusing elements.
A preferred quick-release type panel latch 22 is shown in Figs. 4A and 4B. In Fig. 4A the latch is closed. A hooked closing member 35 affixed to the base 15 engages a projection 36 forming part of a base member affixed to the panel frame 16.
The closing member 35 is maintained in this condition by latch locking arm 33. Latch locking arm 33 includes a keying portion 23. When a keying tool turns the keying element 23, locking arm 33 is raised so as to release the closing member 35. The release is enhanced by spring 34. This opens the latch which enables the panel to be lowered, as is shown in Fig. 4B.
The diffuser panel frame 16 is preferably of aluminum construction. A preferred method for manufacturing the frame is by extrusion. Portions of the frame may be palished to a high metallic luster or anodized as desired.
The fluorescent fixture of the present invention includes a panel which functions as both light and air dif-fuser. Spaced-apart longitudinal elements within the panel permit air flow around them for purposes of cooling and self-cleaning. The longitudinal elements, preferably translucent or transparent, permit light to be directed through and around them.
A nozzle effect, forming part of the fixture, allows air to be inducted upward through the fixture to be combined with forced heating or cooling air for improved mixing and temperature equilibrium. This effect also cleans the fixture.
The mechanical arrangement of the fixture and panel permits easy maintenance (e.g., changing lamps) by simply lowering the panel. The arrangement also is tamper- and vandal-resistant. Handrails incorporated in the panel are particularly useful when the fixture is incorporated in a moving public vehicle.
Referring now to Figure 7, a further embodiment of the invention is illustrated. In this arrangement, the fluorescent fixture extends across the entire ceiling of the car. At either side of the ceiling, a fluorescent lamp 103 is mounted so as to extend parallel to the length of the car. Further, a central fluorescent lamp 103' is mounted so as to be parallel to the other lamps.
The diffuser for the fixture comprises a central portion 102' disposed below each side mounted lamp. The centrally mounted lamp and two side panels 103 disposed below each side mounted lamp. The central portion 102' has openings therein which may be of any known design such as a lattice or tubular shape. The central portion 102' acts as a light and air diffuser and will be described further below. The side panels 103 are typically transparent or translucent with no openings therein.
The entire diffuser is constructed as a single element and, by opening a concealed latch 108 at one side can be made to lower about hinge point 107 to allow for cleaning of the fixture or replacement of the lamps. The lamps are preferably mounted on the underside of the diffuser. The lowered position of the diffuser is shown in dashed lines as 102'A.
In this arrangement, a pair of nozzles 104 are shown.
The nozzles are mounted in ceiling 100. The nozzles 104 comprise a narrowing path 105 from the area above the ceiling 100 (but below roof 101) in the direction of the side of the car and a substantially narrower path 106 which directs air from the central part of the fixture into the narrowing path 105.
Application of a high velocity (preferably cooler) air stream into path 105 will cause, by virtue of a suction effect, warm air to be sucked up through the central portion of the diffuser int~ the substantially narrower path I06. This will occur on either side of the car to provide circulation of air through the car. The diffuser and lamps will be cleaned by this circulation effect.
Figure 8, an embodiment similar to that of Figure 7, also illustrates a fluorescent lamp fixture having a light and air diffuser. The diffuser comprises two side panel 112 and a central portion 118. Three fluorescent lamps 113 are mounted in parallel, preferably to the top portion or the diffuser.
The diffuser may be lowered to allow replacement of lamps and cleaning of the fixture by releasing latch 120, 121 to allow the diffuser to pivot about hinge point 119.
The central portion 118 of the diffuser is preferably an open lattice or tubular arrangement while the side panels 112 are transparent or translucent.
Nozzle arrangements 114 are provided on either side of the fixture. The nozzles include a primary air path 116 which narrows from the input end adjacent ceiling 110 to the output and is directed to the side of the car. An opening in the ceiling 111 permits high velocity, cooled air to enter the input end. A wing-like element 115 functions to form the lower portion of the primary air path and also a portion of the narrower secondary air path 117. Again, high velocity air through primary air path 117 will function to draw air through the central portion by suction and create a circulation path through the fixture.
Figure 9 shows an alternate embodiment where the central portion of the diffuser is supported by structural supports 123 and is fixed. Attached to these supports 123 on either side are latch mechanisms 122 which allow each side diffuser panel to be lowered about hinge elements 121.
While the foregoing description and drawings represent the preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications ~,ay be made therein without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention.
Other prior vehicle lighting systems which integrate the air circulation system of the vehicle with the lighting system do not provide direct/indirect light with reduced glare and limit downward velocities.
OB~ECTS OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention, therefore, to provide a fluorescent light fixture having an improved light diffuser.
15It is also an object of the invention to provide an improved light diffuser for a fluorescent light fixture which also functions as an air diffuser.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a combined light diffuser and air diffuser for a fluorescent 20light fixture which is simple to service and maintain.
It is still a further object of the invention to provide a combined light diffuser and air diffuser for a fluorescent light fixture which is tamper- and vandal-resis-tant.
25It is another object of the invention to provide a combined light diffuser and air diffuser for a fluorescent light fixture which is self-cleaning.
It is yet another object of the invention to provide a fluorescent light fixture having a combined light diffuser and 30air diffuser adapted for use in a public vehicle which also incorporates a handrail as an integral part of the fixture.
It is still another object of the present invention to provide a combined light diffuser and air diffuser for a fluorescent light fixture which is adapted to be constructed by 35extrusion techniques.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a fluorescent light fixture having a combined light diffuser and 1 3~3791 air diff~ser for use in vehicle col~partments which also provides improved mixing and temperature equalization of the ccmpartment air.
SU~MARY OP T~ INV~NTION
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a fluorescent lamp fixture useful for providing light which comprises a base, a light diffusing panel that has openings therein, a fluorescent lamp located between the base and the panel, a means for mounting together the panel, the lamp, and the base, and a nozzle means for creating a venturi effect which sucks air upward through the openings in the panel.
In another embodiment, there is provided a fixture for a fluorescent lamp having a light diffuser comprising a base and a light ~iffusing panel mounted to the base and having mounting and electrical connection means for receiving a fluorescent lamp. The lamp mounting and connection means are located on a surface of the panel facing the base. The panel has openings therein for inducing warmer air to move upward through the panel. This action causes ~ix-ing of cool and the warmer air, avoids down drafts on passengers and promotes cleaning of such lamp and panel. The fixture includes hinge means supporting a first side of the panel and being affixed to the base for allowing the panel to be rotated about the hinge means. Also included are openable latch means having a portion affixed to the base and a portion affixed to a second side of the panel and supportir.g the second side. The latch means, when opened, permit lcwering of the panel by rotation about the hinge means for allowing cleaning and maintenance of the fixture.
Also, in accordance with the present invention, a fixture for a fluorescent lamp having a diffuser for light and air comprises a base, a light and air diffusing panel, and nozzle means incorporated in the base. The light and air diffusing panel is mounted to the base and has mounting and electrical connection means for receiving a fluorescent lamp.
The lamp mounting and connectior. means are located on a surface of the panel facing the base. The panel has openings therein for allowing air to circulate throuqh the panel to allow ~ , .
3a air temperature mixing within the fixture and also cleaning of the panel.
The nozzle means has an entrance on the side of the base facing away from the panel and an exit on the side of the base facing toward the panel. The exit directs emerging air in a direc~ion substan-tially parallel to the base. The nozzle means allows air to be pulled through the panel by suction action caused by an air Ser~-~ moving tb~ h t~e ~oz Further, in a-cordance with the invention, a diffuser panel for a fluorescent lamp fixture comprises a frame and lon-gitudinal elements supported by the frame and spaced apart from one another, at least some of the elements being constructed of a material to allow diffusion of impinging light.
A still further aspect of the present invention encompasses a fluorescent light fixture for a passenger vehicle comprising means for mounting at least one fluorescent lamp, a diffuser having a central portion with openings therein and a pair of translucent side panels being disposed below the lamp and nozzle means disposed above the diffuser having a primary path and a narrow secondary path. The primary path has an entrance facing away from the diffuser and is adapted to be supplied with a high velocity air stream and has an exit directed toward the side of the vehicle. The primary path narrows from entrance to exit. The secondary path has an entrance directed toward the central portion of the diffuser and an exit which forms a junction with the primary path so that high velocity air directed through the primary path will cause air to be sucked upwardly through the central portion of the diffuser into the secondary path.
For a better understanding of the present invention, reference is made to the following description and accompanying drawings, while the scope of the present invention will be pointed out in the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In the drawings:
Figure 1 is a schematic plan view of a railway car fitted with fluorescent fixture assemblies in accordance with the invention;
Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view along 2-2 of Figure 1 particularly illustrating the arrangement of the fixture assemblies within the car;
Figure 3 is an enlarged cross-sectional view along 3-3 of Figure 1 illustrating the fluorescent fixture of the present invention in detail, including location of the diffuser panel when opened for servicing;
5 1 33379~
Figure 4A and Figure 4B are elevational views, partly broken away, taken along 4A,B-4A,B of Fig. 3, of the panel latch in closed and open position, respectively;
Figure 5 is an enlarged bottom view of the diffuser panel; and Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of another embodi-ment illustrating longitudinal diffusing members having differing cross-sections.
Figures 7, 8 and 9 illustrate, in cross-section, three additional embodiments of the invention having lowerable panels and a nozzle arrangement for air circulation through the fixture.
DESCRIPTION OF TE~E PREFE~ D E~3ODIM~3NTS
Referring initially to Figures 1 and 2, a subway car 10 is depicted in which fluorescent lamp fixtures 11 in accordance with the invention have been installed. The installation of the fixtures is made to the ceiling 12 of the car adjacent to vertical supporting pole 13. The fixtures 11 are designed to have identical repeated sections, each section capable of accommodating a 48 inch fluorescent lamp (T12 size). A portion of each fixture section includes a handrail 21 for being grasped by passengers. The side-to-side juxtaposition of the repeated fixture sections creates, in effect, a continuous handrail on either side of the car.
Referring now to Figure 3, the details of the construc-tion of a fluorescent fixture section 11 are illustrated. Each fixture section includes a fixture base 15 which is affixed to the ceiling 12 of the subway car by means not shown. To the base lS is attached a diffuser panel 14. The panel 14 is mounted so as to be substantially parallel to the base 15. The diffuser panel 14 includes a frame 16 which supports a plural-ity of longitudinal elements 17.
The longitudinal elements 17 are spaced apart from one another and, in a preferred arrangement, are substantially parallel to one another. They are preferably constructed of transparent or translucent material to refract, reflect and diffuse impinging light from a fluorescent lamp mounted above 6 1 33~791 the panel. The preferred arrangement of Figure 3 illustrates tubular, hollow, slass elements 17. Tempered glass is pre-ferred for this application.
De~ending on the application, longitudinal elements having differing cross-sections may be desired. Figure 6 illustrates an embodiment of a diffuser panel 11' showing elements 17' having triangular and rectangular cross-sections in a single panel. Lamp 19 is shown above the longitudinal elements 17' in this view.
The materials possible for use in such panel may also be selected in accordance with the nature of light diffusion desired, as well as such other factors as cost, ease of manufacture and ability to withstand breakage. Transparent or translucent plastic material is within the scope of the invention, particularly clear acrylic plastic sold under the trade name "LUCITE" and a clear polycarbonate plastic sold under the trade name "LEXAN". Purely reflective or absorptive materials are also possible, such as polished or anodized aluminum rods made by extrusion.
The shape and spacing of the longitudinal elements are designed to permit dust and dirt to fall through the panel when no forced air is provided to the panel. When forced air is provided to the panel, as in a manner to be discussed below, the panel and longitudinal elements also function as an air diffuser. The diffuser panel 14 is attached to the base lS on either side of the frame 16. On one side, a hinged support 21 is provided. On the other side, the panel is supported by at least one panel latch 22. In a preferred arrangement, two panel latches are required for each section. The latch 22 has a portion affixed to the base and a portion affixed to the panel frame 16. To avoid unauthorized opening of the panel latch, a pair of panel latch releases 23 are provided for each fixture section which have a keying arrangement. The keying arrangement requires that a special tool be used to open the fixture.
The hinged support 21 serves a dual function. The support permits the panel to be lowered, when the latches 22 are opened, by rotation about the axis of the hinge. Along the axis of the hinge, in this preferred embodiment, a handrail is arranged for passengers to grasp.
A rotation-limiting mechanism 24 is provided to prevent the panel, when unlatched, from immediately dropping to a fully rotated position. The mechanism includes a hinge support 25 affixed to the base which cooperates with a rod 25a. Affixed to the end of the rod 25a is a camming element 26. A camming groove 27 is provided in a camming guide affixed to one side of the panel frame 16. The shape of the camming groove is such that, when the panel is opened, the cam 26a will travel only a short distance to 27'. In order to obtain full descent of the panel, it is necessary to raise the panel slightly to allow the cam 26 to travel to 27" in t~e camming groove 27.
Fluorescent lamp mounting members 18 are provided for allowing the lamp lg to be installed and electrically connected in each fixture section. These members 18 are preferably mounted on opposite end portions of the panel frame 16 so that the lamp is centrally located above the longi~udinal members 17 and substantially parallel to them.
A fluorescent ballast 20 is also mounted in the fixture section, preferably on one end of the panel frame. While the ballast 20 and lamp 19 could also be mounted to the base 15, there is a significant advantage in ease of maintenance to have these elements more readily accessible to a service person upon lowering of the panel. This lowering operation is shown in phantom lines in Fig 3. The panel 14 is first rotated to a position 14' in the direction A and, finally, to a position 14". In this position, the lamp and ballast are readily accessible for servicing.
A top view of the panel and fixture shown in Figure 5 indicates the relative arrangement of the lamp 19 and ballast 20 with respect to the frame 16. Ballast 20 is mounted on an end portion of frame 16. Lamping mounting members 18 are mounted on opposite end portions of frame 16 to allow the lamp 19 to extend therebetween. Other elements bear like numerals to those elements shown in Fig. 3.
A principal feature of the fluorescent fixture 11 is the provision of nozzle or nozzles 28. Nozzle 28 is installed in base 15 so that the entrance of the nozzle is above the base while the exit 30 of the nozzle is below the base. The nozzle entrance has a larger cross-sectional area than the exit; the cross-sectional area gradually decreases from entrance to exit.
Provision of a high velocity stream of air 31 in the direction of arrow 31 will cause an area of negative pressure 29 below the nozzle exit 30. This, in turn, will cause by suction air from below the fixture to flow through the fixture, 32, to join the high velocity air at the nozzle exit. This effect is commonly known as a Venturi effect. The overall result will be to impr~ve air circulation and equalize tempera-ture distribution in the car. The high velocity air stream may be provided by warming or cooling air normally circulating in the car.
The nozzles 28 thus induct air from a room cavity to join the emitted air from a central forced-air heating or cooling equipment source. The combined mixed air is controlled in a preferred direction by orienting the nozzle appropriately.
The induced vertical flow provides a cleansing of loose particles from the paths of light and maintains the full spacing between the longitudinal diffusing elements.
A preferred quick-release type panel latch 22 is shown in Figs. 4A and 4B. In Fig. 4A the latch is closed. A hooked closing member 35 affixed to the base 15 engages a projection 36 forming part of a base member affixed to the panel frame 16.
The closing member 35 is maintained in this condition by latch locking arm 33. Latch locking arm 33 includes a keying portion 23. When a keying tool turns the keying element 23, locking arm 33 is raised so as to release the closing member 35. The release is enhanced by spring 34. This opens the latch which enables the panel to be lowered, as is shown in Fig. 4B.
The diffuser panel frame 16 is preferably of aluminum construction. A preferred method for manufacturing the frame is by extrusion. Portions of the frame may be palished to a high metallic luster or anodized as desired.
The fluorescent fixture of the present invention includes a panel which functions as both light and air dif-fuser. Spaced-apart longitudinal elements within the panel permit air flow around them for purposes of cooling and self-cleaning. The longitudinal elements, preferably translucent or transparent, permit light to be directed through and around them.
A nozzle effect, forming part of the fixture, allows air to be inducted upward through the fixture to be combined with forced heating or cooling air for improved mixing and temperature equilibrium. This effect also cleans the fixture.
The mechanical arrangement of the fixture and panel permits easy maintenance (e.g., changing lamps) by simply lowering the panel. The arrangement also is tamper- and vandal-resistant. Handrails incorporated in the panel are particularly useful when the fixture is incorporated in a moving public vehicle.
Referring now to Figure 7, a further embodiment of the invention is illustrated. In this arrangement, the fluorescent fixture extends across the entire ceiling of the car. At either side of the ceiling, a fluorescent lamp 103 is mounted so as to extend parallel to the length of the car. Further, a central fluorescent lamp 103' is mounted so as to be parallel to the other lamps.
The diffuser for the fixture comprises a central portion 102' disposed below each side mounted lamp. The centrally mounted lamp and two side panels 103 disposed below each side mounted lamp. The central portion 102' has openings therein which may be of any known design such as a lattice or tubular shape. The central portion 102' acts as a light and air diffuser and will be described further below. The side panels 103 are typically transparent or translucent with no openings therein.
The entire diffuser is constructed as a single element and, by opening a concealed latch 108 at one side can be made to lower about hinge point 107 to allow for cleaning of the fixture or replacement of the lamps. The lamps are preferably mounted on the underside of the diffuser. The lowered position of the diffuser is shown in dashed lines as 102'A.
In this arrangement, a pair of nozzles 104 are shown.
The nozzles are mounted in ceiling 100. The nozzles 104 comprise a narrowing path 105 from the area above the ceiling 100 (but below roof 101) in the direction of the side of the car and a substantially narrower path 106 which directs air from the central part of the fixture into the narrowing path 105.
Application of a high velocity (preferably cooler) air stream into path 105 will cause, by virtue of a suction effect, warm air to be sucked up through the central portion of the diffuser int~ the substantially narrower path I06. This will occur on either side of the car to provide circulation of air through the car. The diffuser and lamps will be cleaned by this circulation effect.
Figure 8, an embodiment similar to that of Figure 7, also illustrates a fluorescent lamp fixture having a light and air diffuser. The diffuser comprises two side panel 112 and a central portion 118. Three fluorescent lamps 113 are mounted in parallel, preferably to the top portion or the diffuser.
The diffuser may be lowered to allow replacement of lamps and cleaning of the fixture by releasing latch 120, 121 to allow the diffuser to pivot about hinge point 119.
The central portion 118 of the diffuser is preferably an open lattice or tubular arrangement while the side panels 112 are transparent or translucent.
Nozzle arrangements 114 are provided on either side of the fixture. The nozzles include a primary air path 116 which narrows from the input end adjacent ceiling 110 to the output and is directed to the side of the car. An opening in the ceiling 111 permits high velocity, cooled air to enter the input end. A wing-like element 115 functions to form the lower portion of the primary air path and also a portion of the narrower secondary air path 117. Again, high velocity air through primary air path 117 will function to draw air through the central portion by suction and create a circulation path through the fixture.
Figure 9 shows an alternate embodiment where the central portion of the diffuser is supported by structural supports 123 and is fixed. Attached to these supports 123 on either side are latch mechanisms 122 which allow each side diffuser panel to be lowered about hinge elements 121.
While the foregoing description and drawings represent the preferred embodiments of the present invention, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications ~,ay be made therein without departing from the true spirit and scope of the present invention.
Claims (19)
1. A fixture useful for providing light comprising:
a base;
a light diffusing panel that has openings therein;
a lamp located between the base and the panel;
means for mounting together said panel, said lamp and said base; and nozzle means for creating a venturi effect which suctions air through said openings in said panel and then out a side of the panel, said nozzle means directing an emerging airstream to flow to the side of the panel so as to bring about the venturi effect.
a base;
a light diffusing panel that has openings therein;
a lamp located between the base and the panel;
means for mounting together said panel, said lamp and said base; and nozzle means for creating a venturi effect which suctions air through said openings in said panel and then out a side of the panel, said nozzle means directing an emerging airstream to flow to the side of the panel so as to bring about the venturi effect.
2. A fixture as in claim 1, wherein said nozzle means includes a nozzle extending through said base and having an entrance and an exit, said nozzle narrowing in cross-section from said entrance to said exit, said nozzle being inclined so that air flowing from said entrance and to said exit emerges from said exit flowing in a direction to said open side of said panel.
3. A fixture as in claim 1, wherein said nozzle means creates said venturi effect which suctions air through said openings in said panel through said space causing the air flow to split in opposite directions so as to emerge through opposite sides in accordance with said split.
4. A fixture as in claim 3, wherein said base has first and second nozzles each having a respective entrance and a respective exit said nozzles each narrowing in cross-section from said respective entrance to said respective exit, said first nozzle being inclined so that air flowing from said entrance to said exit of said first nozzle emerges from said exit of said first nozzle to flow in a direction to a side of the panel, said second nozzle being inclined so that air flowing from said entrance to said exit of said second nozzle emerges from said exit of said second nozzle to flow in a direction to another side of the panel.
5. A fixture according to claim 1, wherein the light diffusing panel includes a plurality of light diffusing rods which are substantially parallel to and spaced apart from one another.
6. A fixture as in claim 5, wherein at least one of the rods is made of a material selected from the group consisting of glass, tempered glass, plastic and extruded aluminium having a reflective surface.
7. A fixture as in claim 5, wherein the rods each have different cross-sectional configurations.
8. A fixture as in claim 1, further comprising means fixed to the base and supporting a first side of the panel, the panel being rotatable about the hinge means; and an openable latch means having a first portion fixed to the base and a second portion fixed to and supporting a second side of the panel, the latch means when opened permitting lowering of the panel by rotation about the hinge means to allow cleaning and maintenance of the fixture.
9. A fixture as in claim 8, wherein the base of the fixture is adapted to be mounted on a ceiling of a passenger vehicle and the hinge means has a longitudinally extending axis, said fixture including a handrail disposed along the axis, said handrail being adapted for being grasped by passengers.
10. A fixture as in claim 8, wherein the latch means includes a keyed portion requiring a keyed tool to open said keyed portion.
11. A fixture as in claim 8, wherein the latch means is of the quick release type.
12. A fixture as in claim 8, further comprising a release latch for preventing the panel from rotating more than a predetermined amount.
13. A fixture as in claim 12, wherein the release latch includes means for allowing the panel to rotate selectively to any one of two different positions.
14. A fixture as in claim 1, wherein said nozzle means is incorporated in the base, the nozzle means having an entrance on the side of the base facing away from the panel and an exit on the side of the base facing toward the panel, the nozzle exit being adapted to direct air to emerge from the nozzle exit in a direction substantially parallel to the base, the nozzle means being responsive to the air stream forced through the nozzle means for creating suction to cause air to be sucked through the panel.
15. A fixture as in claim 1, wherein said nozzle means is incorporated in the base for causing air to be sucked through the panel in response to the airstream forced through the nozzle means.
16. A fixture as in claim 15, wherein the base is adapted to be mounted in a vehicle compartment having force air circulation such that the high velocity airstream is produced by the forced air circulation in the compartment.
17. A fixture as in claim 15, wherein the nozzle means has a nozzle entrance on a side of the base facing away from the panel and a nozzle exit on a side of the base facing toward the panel, the nozzle exit directing the emerging airstream in a direction substantially parallel to the base.
18. A fixture as in claim 15, wherein said nozzle means has an entrance with a cross-sectional area substantially larger than that of an exit of the nozzle means, the cross-sectional area of the nozzle means decreasing in size from the entrance to the exit.
19. A fixture as in claim 1, further comprising means for mounting a fluorescent ballast to the panel.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US412,828 | 1989-09-26 | ||
| US07/412,828 US5038256A (en) | 1987-12-07 | 1989-09-26 | Lighting fixture with diffuser for light and air |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1333791C true CA1333791C (en) | 1995-01-03 |
Family
ID=23634674
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000613842A Expired - Fee Related CA1333791C (en) | 1989-09-26 | 1989-09-28 | Lighting fixture with diffuser for light and air |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| JP (1) | JPH06101242B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA1333791C (en) |
Family Cites Families (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPS56141105A (en) * | 1980-04-03 | 1981-11-04 | Kajima Corp | Heat removing device for illuminator |
| AT377349B (en) * | 1983-12-28 | 1985-03-11 | Bakalowits Friedhelm | LUSTERHANG |
-
1989
- 1989-09-28 CA CA000613842A patent/CA1333791C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 1989-10-26 JP JP27963289A patent/JPH06101242B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| JPH03112010A (en) | 1991-05-13 |
| JPH06101242B2 (en) | 1994-12-12 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKLA | Lapsed |