ES2964220T3 - Improved section bar - Google Patents

Abstract

Improved section bar (30) to be applied to a structure and/or facility (1) in which lighting is provided and/or required, said profile being made of extruded polymeric material and being configured to define a seat (31) in the same. which extends longitudinally to house an LED strip (40), and characterized in that said section bar (30): - always presents, along at least a part of its longitudinal extension, at least one through opening (50) , which also extends longitudinally, in order to always put in communication with the outside said hollow seat (31), which is defined inside the profile (30) itself, is configured in such a way that the insertion of said LED strip (40) inside the hollow seat (31). through said through opening (50) and in a direction (45) that forms an angle, and that is preferably substantially orthogonal, with respect to the direction of longitudinal development of the profile itself, it comprises at least one portion that is configured to allow , at least in part, the transmission to the external environment of the light generated by said LED strip (40) that is intended to be housed within said hollow seat (31). (Automatic translation with Google Translate, without legal value)

Description

DESCRIPTION

Improved section bar

[0001] The present invention refers to an improved section bar for furniture, furniture accessories or similar, for roof installations, such as pergolas or curtains, and in general for all structures or installations in which it is provided and/or or lighting is required.

[0002] Currently, an increasing number of furniture or furniture accessories, as well as pergolas or curtains, or other structures or installations in general, are equipped with lighting elements that can be configured to illuminate a certain area and/or to constitute courtesy lights and/or to create special lighting effects, in particular RGB effects.

[0003] To date, this requirement has been met by applying strip lights, preferably LED strip lights (also called "LED strips"), inside special seats provided on furniture or furniture accessories, or by applying them by adhesive directly on the surface of these.

[0004] Likewise, to create a uniform beam of light that is emitted from an LED strip, thus avoiding having distinct and separate beams/spots for each LED, it is necessary to provide (at a certain distance from the LED strip), a cover suitable semi-transparent.

[0005] In this sense, mainly for decorative purposes, extruded section bars made of polymeric material (for example, silicone) have already been proposed on the market, within which LED diodes are incorporated. However, this solution is not satisfactory, since the LED strip is not removable and, therefore, a possible failure of the LED strip (for example, when one or more LED diodes break) requires the disposal of the section with the Defective LED strip, without any possibility of reuse.

[0006] Solutions have already been proposed in which the LED strip is removably inserted within a closed longitudinal cavity that is defined within the section bar. In particular, in these solutions, a termination of the LED strip is inserted into the section bar at the open end thereof and is then made to slide along the longitudinal extension of the section bar itself. In this case, to isolate the LED diodes with their electrical connections from the external environment, to prevent the entry of solid particles (dust or insects) or liquids, the extruded sections are then sealed at their open ends.

[0007] Furthermore, this solution is not completely satisfactory, since the insertion of the LED strip by sliding it into and along the longitudinal cavity of the section may cause the strip to break or, in any case, deformation. unwanted part thereof, which over time facilitates irreparable damage to said strip.

[0008] Likewise, in the case of an LED strip coated with protective resins (for example, silicone), friction is created in correspondence with the walls that delimit the inner cavity that prevents easy sliding and sliding of the LED strip inside this cavity.

[0009] In some cases, to solve this drawback, sections whose transverse dimensions are suitably oversized are used in order to obtain within it a cavity that has dimensions with the cross section considerably larger than those of the LED strip, and this with in order to allow easy longitudinal sliding of this inside and along the aforementioned cavity. However, this solution is not satisfactory, since the transversely oversized profile, in addition to having a more important visual impact, is generally not suitable for application to furniture or furniture accessories, in particular to define the finishes or seals on their edges.

[0010] Document US 2010/0061095 describes a device comprising a tubular plastic profile that is provided with an internal cavity to house a flexible printed circuit comprising a plurality of LED diodes. The printed circuit is inserted into the section through a longitudinal opening that is subsequently closed thanks to a tongue and groove coupling defined by corresponding parts (i.e., a shaped appendage and a corresponding shaped recess), both obtained in the own tubular section.

[0011] Document US 2014/0268736 describes an extruded profile made of polymeric material to contain an LED strip and thus create a lighting device. The section defines an internal cavity configured to house the LED strip that is accessible through an opening that, in use, is closed by folding a hinged portion of the section, which is then interconnected with another wall of the section.

[0012] However, the solutions of US 2010/0061095 and US 2014/0268736 are not entirely satisfactory, since the interconnecting coupling/engagement can deteriorate over time, in particular also due to the loss of elasticity of material from which the section bar is made, which makes the closure less efficient. Furthermore, particularly for sections having considerable longitudinal development, it is particularly difficult to lock/unlock the coupling/interconnecting joint for the entire length of said longitudinal development. Furthermore, once the interconnection coupling has been activated, the cavity for housing the LEDs is isolated from the outside and, in particular, since there is no adequate ventilation within said cavity, there is a risk of overheating. wanted.

[0013] WO 2005/106320 presents an elongated and flexible lighting system that includes a section bar made of flexible material and a series of light sources mounted on a flexible printed circuit configured to be housed within a longitudinal cavity provided in the profile itself. The section includes a slot that connects the internal cavity with the exterior and allows the printed circuit board to be inserted into the cavity itself. Under conditions of use, the slit is closed (and the cavity is therefore isolated from the outside) by means of clips, or directly by filling the cavity with a filling material. However, this solution is not completely satisfactory, as it requires additional external components (such as clips) or, filling the cavity with material, in case of failure, it is no longer possible to remove the LED strip and therefore it is It is necessary to replace the entire device. In any case, by completely isolating the internal cavity from the outside and, in particular, since there is no adequate ventilation inside said cavity, there is a risk of unwanted overheating.

[0014] In document US2015/217840 a light-altering rub rail is disclosed comprising an elastic, semi-rigid and translucent polymer base having at least one body portion with proximal and distal ends, upper and lower ends and front and back faces. Additionally, the rail comprises an access flap that forms the majority of the front face of the base creating a gap in the base; a light source integrated within the space at the base; a plurality of mounting lobes on the proximal and distal end portions; and a plurality of linear light refractors integrated within the base where the space in the base can be sealed to create a completely enclosed waterproof housing.

[0015] The object of the invention is to propose a section bar that eliminates all the drawbacks of known solutions.

[0016] Another object of the invention is to propose a section bar to protect an LED strip from the external environment.

[0017] Another object of the invention is to propose a section bar in which an LED strip can be inserted simply, easily and quickly.

[0018] Another object of the invention is to propose a section bar that allows it to have a uniform light substantially along its entire length.

[0019] Another object of the invention is to propose a section bar whose length is easily customizable and adaptable, even when installed and at the time of installation.

[0020] Another object of the invention is to propose a section bar that allows adequate ventilation for the LED strip intended to be housed within said section bar.

[0021] Another object of the invention is to propose a section bar that is improved and/or alternative to the traditional ones.

[0022] Another object of the invention is to provide a section bar that presents an alternative characterization, both in constructive and functional terms, compared to traditional ones.

[0023] Another object of the invention is to propose a section bar that can be obtained simply and quickly and at low costs.

[0024] Another object of the invention is to provide a section bar that can be mass produced quickly and efficiently.

[0025] Another object of the invention is to provide a section bar that presents high standards, both functional and constructive, and at the same time of an affordable cost, thus allowing the possibility of its widespread distribution.

[0026] Another object of the invention is to make a section bar in combination with standardized dimensions of LED strips and/or commercially available type and dimensions.

[0027] Another object of the invention is to provide a lighting device that can be used as a gasket and/or as a finishing profile and/or as decoration.

[0028] Another object of the invention is to propose a lighting device that can be obtained and configured simply, quickly and at low cost, and that allows lighting to be obtained that is aesthetically pleasing in general and, thus providing the observer with the sensation of be faced with a high quality solution, both aesthetically and functionally.

[0029] All of these purposes, considered individually or in any combination thereof, and others that will become evident from the following description are achieved, according to the invention, with a lighting device according to claim 1.

[0030] In particular, the present invention relates to an improved lighting device that is applied to a structure and/or installation 1 in which lighting is provided and/or required, comprising a section bar that is made of material extruded polymeric and being configured to define within it a hollow seat 31 with longitudinal extension to house an LED strip 40, where said section bar 30:

- always presents, along at least a portion of its longitudinal extension, at least one through opening 50, which also extends longitudinally, to always place said hollow seat 31 inside the section bar 30 itself, in communication with the abroad.

- is configured so that the insertion of said LED strip 40 into the hollow seat 31 occurs through said through opening 50 and in a direction 45 that is angled, and that is preferably substantially orthogonal, with respect to the direction of development longitudinal of the profile itself,

- comprises at least one portion that is configured to allow, at least in part, the transmission to the external environment of the light generated by said LED strip 40 that is intended to be housed within said hollow seat 31.

[0031] Conveniently, said longitudinal opening 50 always remains open to define an air passage between the interior of the hollow seat 31 and the exterior.

[0032] Said longitudinal opening 50 has dimensions configured to prevent the passage of the LED strip 40 both at the entrance and at the exit of said hollow seat 31. Said section bar 30 is configured so that the insertion of the LED strip 40 inside the hollow seat 31 takes place causing the widening of the longitudinal opening 50 of the section bar 30 to define a passage 54 of such width as to allow said insertion.

[0033] In particular, the section bar 30 presents said at least one longitudinal opening 50 also in its condition of use and/or installation, that is, when the LED strip is inserted inside the hollow seat 31.

[0034] The hollow seat 31 is never isolated and separated from the external environment of the section itself. Even in the absence of external stresses, the hollow seat 31 is and remains in communication with the exterior of the section bar through said through opening.

[0035] Conveniently, in said through opening there are no hooks, for example interconnecting means, to close or cover the through opening itself. In particular, said through opening is defined between two portions that always remain mutually separated.

[0036] Suitably, no sealants or other filler materials are provided/used within the hollow seat 31.

[0037] Advantageously, the hollow seat 31 of the section bar 30 is also open and in communication with the outside at one end 33, preferably both ends, of said section bar.

[0038] Preferably, the section bar 30 is obtained so that the hollow seat 31 formed therein is closed and separated from the outside at the ends 33 of said section bar.

[0039] In the absence of external stresses, the width of the longitudinal opening 50 is less than both dimensions of the cross section of the LED strip 40.

[0040] The section has a portion 51 that is elastically deformable to allow its rotation around a longitudinal portion 53 of said section bar, which acts as an articulation axis, after application to said portion 51 of an external force 49.

[0041] Advantageously, the cross-sectional area of the hollow seat 31 is greater than the cross-sectional area of the LED strip 40 intended to be inserted and housed in said seat.

[0042] Conveniently, the hollow seat 31 has a first zone 36 intended to house the LED strip 40 and a second zone 37 that is oriented towards and/or communicates with said first zone and that is intended to always remain empty.

[0043] Preferably, the hollow seat 31 has, at least in part, a profile complementary to that of the LED strip 40 that is to be housed therein.

[0044] Conveniently, the hollow seat 31 is shaped so that, once the LED strip 40 is inserted, it remains stable in its position in said seat.

[0045] Advantageously, said hollow seat 31 comprises appendages for locking said LED strip 40 within said seat.

[0046] Conveniently, the section bar is configured, at least in part, to uniformly diffuse the light produced by the LED strip 40 housed and inserted in said hollow seat 31.

[0047] Advantageously, the section bar is made of silicone and/or PMMA and/or PVC and/or rubber and/or other polymeric material, both synthetic and natural, with high elasticity.

[0048] Conveniently, the section bar comprises completely, or at least in a portion thereof, at least a portion 35 that transmits the light produced by the LED diodes 41 of the LED strip 40 and that uniformly diffuses the light produced by the 41 LED diodes of the 40 LED strip.

[0049] Advantageously, said portion 35 of the section bar 30 is configured to allow the transmission to the external environment of the light generated by said LED strip 40 with an indicative loss of between approximately 0-50%.

[0050] Preferably, the section bar comprises a transparent or translucent portion. Preferably, the section bar comprises a partially opaque portion, preferably with an opal and/or frosted and/or milky white effect.

[0051] Preferably, the section bar comprises at least two portions with different characteristics for both transmission and diffusion of the light produced by the LED diodes 41 of the LED strip 40.

[0052] Preferably, the section comprises at least two portions with different characteristics of both transmission and diffusion of the light produced by the LED diodes 41 of the LED strip 40. Conveniently, said at least two portions of the section bar 30 They are obtained using at least two different materials that are extruded together during the construction of the section itself.

[0053] Conveniently, the section is configured externally to act as a sealing and/or finishing and/or decorating section of said structure and/or said installation and/or structure 1 to which it is intended to be applied.

[0054] Preferably, the section is configured to substantially act as a container for the LED strip 40 and as a diffuser for the light generated by said LED strip 40.

[0055] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a lighting device 18, preferably of the type to be installed in a piece of furniture, in a piece of furniture or similar, in a roof installation or in a structure or installation in the lighting is provided and/or required, and characterized in that it comprises at least one bar section 30 as described above and an LED strip 40 which is removably housed within the hollow seat 31 defined in said section; suitably, said LED strip 40 is inserted into said hollow seat 31 passing through said longitudinal opening 50 of said section bar 30 and in a direction 45 which is angled, and which preferably is substantially orthogonal, with respect to the direction of longitudinal development of the profile itself.

[0056] Conveniently, a cable 60 is connected to said LED strip 40, at a terminal portion thereof, for connection to a power source.

[0057] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 is configured to present, by itself, a degree of IP protection, defined in accordance with the IEC 60529 standard, which is:

- greater than or equal to 5, preferably equal to 6, as the first significant figure,

- greater than 1, preferably equal to or greater than 4, as the second significant figure.

[0058] In particular, preferably, the LED strip 40 is configured to present, by itself, a degree of protection of IP, which is defined according to the IEC 60529 standard, corresponding to IP65 or IP66 or IP67 or IP68.

[0059] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 is configured to present a degree of IP protection that makes it potentially suitable for installation outdoors without the need for additional containment sections and/or other protections.

[0060] Preferably, the LED strip 40 comprises a plurality of LED diodes 41 that are supported and connected by means of a printed circuit 42.

[0061] Conveniently, the LED strip 40 comprises a plurality of LED diodes 41 which are configured to emit monochromatic light or are of the RGB type.

[0062] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 is completely housed and hidden within the internal cavity 32 of the section bar 30.

[0063] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 can partially come out in correspondence with an end 33 of said section bar 30, while a part of said LED strip 40 is inserted and housed inside said seat 31 of said section bar 30.

[0064] The present invention also relates to an installation and/or structure, such as, for example, a piece of furniture and/or a piece of furniture and/or a roof installation, where lighting is provided and/or required, and characterized in that it comprises at least one lighting device 18 as described above, the section bar 30 of said device 18 being applied to a surface or within an element of said installation and/or structure.

[0065] Suitably, the installation comprises a device for controlling said at least one lighting device 18.

[0066] Advantageously, the control device comprises a power supply connected to the electrical network or a battery, and a processor that is preferably configured to perform pulse width modulation (PWM) of the supply voltage of the LED diodes. 41 of the strip. 40.

[0067] Preferably, the processor is also configured to allow wireless connection with an external device to control the activation/deactivation of the diodes<l>E<d>41 of said LED strip 40, as well as the variation of the brightness generated for these.

[0068] The present invention is made even clearer below in some of its preferred embodiments, which are set out for purely illustrative and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached drawings, in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view from above a piece of furniture to which an improved section member according to the invention is applied,

Figure 1a shows an enlarged detail of fig. 1 according to a perspective view from below,

Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the section according to the invention before inserting the LED strip,

Figure 3 is a perspective view of an enlarged detail of FIG. 2,

Figure 4 shows a cross section of the section of fig. 2 in a first configuration,

Figure 5 shows a perspective view of the detail of fig. 3 with its portion that is to be moved from the first to the second configuration,

Figure 6 shows the cross section of the section of fig. 2 in the second configuration,

Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the section of fig. 2 in the second configuration to allow the insertion of an LED strip,

Figure 8 shows a perspective view of the section of fig. 2 with a LED strip inside,

Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the section according to the invention before the insertion of the <l>E<d> strip,

Figure 10 shows a perspective view of an enlarged detail of FIG. 9,

Figure 11 shows a cross section of the section of fig. 9 in a first configuration,

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the detail of fig. 9 in the second open configuration,

Figure 13 shows the cross section of the section bar of fig. 9 in the second open configuration, Figure 14 shows a perspective view of the section bar of Fig. 9 in a second open configuration to allow the insertion of an LED strip,

Figure 15 shows a perspective view of the section bar of Fig. 9 with an LED strip inserted inside.

[0069] As can be seen from the figures, the lighting device according to the invention, generally designated with the reference number 18, is applied/mounted, in the example shown, on a piece of furniture, indicated in conjunction with the reference number 1. In particular, in the example shown, the device 18 is applied to the lower surface of a wall unit 1 to illuminate the underlying area, that is, that of the television 2.

[0070] Suitably, it is understood that the lighting device 18 can be applied to any structure or installation, such as, for example, to the furniture 1, but also to a furniture accessory or the like, to a roofing installation, such as a pergola or a tent, and in general it can be applied to any structure or installation where lighting is required or necessary. Conveniently, the lighting device 18 can be applied in any desired position of said structure or installation 1.

[0071] In particular, according to the invention, each lighting device 18 comprises a section bar 30 that is made of extruded polymeric material and that is configured to define inside it a hollow seat 31 with longitudinal development to house a strip of LEDs 40. In fact, conveniently, the lighting device 18 also comprises at least one LED strip 40 which is removably inserted and housed, at least in part, in the hollow seat 31 of said section bar 30.

[0072] Conveniently, in a substantially traditional manner, the hollow seat 31 of the section bar 30 is open and in communication with the exterior at the ends 33 of said section bar. Alternatively, according to the invention, in an embodiment not shown herein, the section bar 30 is obtained so that the hollow seat 31 formed within it is closed and separated from the outside at one or both ends 33 of said profile.

[0073] The section bar 30 also has, along all or a large part of its longitudinal extension, at least one through opening 50, which also has a longitudinal development, to put the hollow seat 31 defined within it in communication. of the section 30 bar with the outside.

[0074] Conveniently, the hollow seat 31 is completely delimited/surrounded by the walls of the section bar 30 with a single interruption in the longitudinal opening 50.

[0075] In other words, the cross section of the hollow seat 31 is in communication with the external environment only in said longitudinal opening 50.

[0076] Advantageously, the hollow seat 31 is in communication with the external environment, through the longitudinal opening 50, even when the section bar 30 is in a stress-free condition (i.e., in the absence of external stresses). Conveniently, even in the absence of external stresses, the longitudinal opening 50 defines a passage for the entry of external air into the hollow seat 31 in which the LED strip 40 is intended to be housed, thus allowing proper ventilation thereof and avoiding problems of overheating caused by the LED strip intended to be housed in said hollow seat 31.

[0077] Conveniently, in the absence of external stresses, the longitudinal opening 50 has dimensions such as to prevent the passage of the LED strip 40. Preferably, for this purpose, the width of the longitudinal opening 50 is smaller with respect to both dimensions of the cross section of the LED strip 40.

[0078] The section bar 30 is configured so that the insertion of the LED strip 40 into the hollow seat 31 takes place in a direction 45 that is angled (and which, preferably, is substantially orthogonal) with respect to the direction of the longitudinal development of the section itself (see figs. 7 and 14). Conveniently, the insertion (or removal) of the LED strip 40 into the hollow seat 31 takes place by widening the longitudinal opening 50 of the section bar 30 to define a passage 54 of such width as to allow such insertion (or removal).

[0079] Advantageously, the longitudinal opening 50 is formed to separate two portions, respectively 51 and 52, of the section bar 30 from each other. Conveniently, the two separate portions 51 and 52 of the opening 50 may be defined by two distinct, adjacent to each other and angled walls of the section bar 30 (see first embodiment in Fig. 4) or may be defined on the same wall of the section bar 30 (see the second embodiment in Fig. 11).

[0080] Advantageously, as mentioned, this longitudinal opening 50 is used to allow the insertion and extraction of the LED strip 40 inside the hollow seat 31. Conveniently, in this case, the section bar 30 presents, in correspondence with the longitudinal opening 50, at least one portion 51 that is elastically deformable to allow its movement, preferably its rotation around a longitudinal portion 53 of said section member from the articulation axis, after application to said portion 51 of an external force 49 by the installer. Preferably, the section bar 30 has a single portion 51 that is elastically deformable to allow its movement, preferably its rotation around a longitudinal portion 53 of said section, which acts as an articulation axis after applying a force to said portion 51. external 49 by the installer.

[0081] Preferably, the deformable portion 51 is not provided with means for interconnecting engagement with the portion 52. Suitably, in essence, the deformable portion 51 is never in contact with the portion 52, thus allowing always to define/leave an opening 50 between said two portions.

[0082] Conveniently, the section bar 30 is configured to pass, upon application of an external force 49, from a first configuration (corresponding to the condition of use and installation of the section bar 30), in which the seat recess 31 is substantially isolated from the outside, except at the longitudinal opening 50, to a second deformed and open configuration for inserting the LED strip 40 into (or removing it from) the recessed seat 31. Conveniently, once the LED strip 40 is inserted/removed and the application of external force 49 to the portion 51 is interrupted, the section bar 30 returns by itself (by elastic return) from the second deformed opening configuration to the first. setting.

[0083] In more detail, in the second deformed open configuration, the opening 50 of the section bar 30 is elastically widened upon application of an external force 49 by the installer to cause rotation of the portion 51 around the portion 53, and thus defining a passage 54 of such width as to allow the insertion/extraction of the LED strip 40 inside the hollow seat 31. Next, once the LED strip 40 is inserted inside the hollow seat 31, to return In the first configuration, the application of the external force 49 is interrupted, so that the portion 51 elastically returns to its position, partially closing the passage 54 and redefining the opening 50 with the portion 52, an opening that, as mentioned , is of such a size that it prevents the passage of said LED strip 40.

[0084] Advantageously, once the LED strip 40 is inserted into the hollow seat 31, the opening 50 can be closed to at least partially isolate (at least along the longitudinal extension of the section bar 30) the hollow seat 31 from outside.

[0085] Suitably, the cross section of the section bar 30 is shaped and sized so that its internal hollow seat 31 has a dimension 35 that corresponds to (that is, is substantially equal to) or is slightly larger than the largest dimension (i.e., the width 59) of the section of the LED strip 40 that is intended to be inserted inside.

[0086] Advantageously, the section bar 30, and preferably also its internal hollow seat 31, are configured to dissipate the heat produced by the LED strip 40 when it is being powered. In particular, for this purpose, the cross-sectional area of the hollow seat 31 is larger than the cross-sectional area of the LED strip 40. This also allows air from the external environment to enter the hollow seat 31 crossing the opening 50, to circulate inside said hollow seat 31 and to exit after it always through the opening 50.

[0087] Preferably, the hollow seat 31 has a first zone 36 designated to house the LED strip 40 and a second zone 37 that is oriented towards and/or communicates with said first zone and that is intended to always remain empty (i.e. , even when the LED strip has been inserted inside said hollow seat 31).

Conveniently, the presence of the second zone 37 allows the heat produced by the LED strip 40 that is housed in the first zone 36 to be dissipated.

[0088] Preferably, the hollow seat 31 has, at least in part, a profile that is complementary to that of the LED strip 40 that is to be housed therein.

[0089] Conveniently, the hollow seat 31 is shaped so that, once the LED strip 40 is inserted, it remains stable in its position in said seat. Advantageously, for this purpose, for example, locking appendages are provided.

[0090] Conveniently, within the hollow seat 31, the LED strip 40 can be placed in contact with the surface of one side adjacent to the opening 50. Advantageously, the LED strip 40 can also emit light substantially in the direction of the surface opposite compared to the contact surface.

[0091] In particular, advantageously, once inserted, the LED strip 40 can be supported and in contact with the internal surface (i.e., facing the interior of the hollow seat 31) of the deformable portion 51, thus facilitating insertion /extraction of the LED strip 40 in/from said hollow seat 31.

[0092] Conveniently, the section bar 30 acts substantially as a protective container for the LED strip 40 and also as a diffuser for the light generated therefrom.

[0093] Advantageously, each LED strip 40 comprises a set of LED diodes 41, that is, electronic components that emit light when electricity is supplied to them. Conveniently, the LED diodes 41 are fixed, preferably by soldering, on a printed circuit board (PCB) 42, preferably flexible, which performs the function of support and electrical connection.

[0094] Advantageously, the LED diodes 41 can be configured to emit monochromatic light, or they can be of the RGB type. Advantageously, the LED strip 40 is configured so that, by itself, it is protected against the penetration of dust and against any penetration of liquids (in particular, water).

[0095] Preferably, the LED strip 40 is configured so that, by itself, it is already completely protected against dust and/or already completely protected against water in the form of drops (at any inclination) and/or splashes and/or or jets and/or waves and/or against the effects of submersion and/or temporary immersion in water.

[0096] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 is configured to present, by itself, a degree of IP protection, defined in accordance with the IEC 60529 standard, which is:

- greater than or equal to 5, preferably equal to 6, as the first significant figure,

- greater than 1, preferably equal to or greater than 4, as the second significant figure.

[0097] Preferably, the LED strip 40 itself has a degree of protection IP65, IP66, IP67 or IP68.

[0098] Preferably, the LED strip 40 is configured to present a degree of IP protection that makes it potentially suitable for installation outdoors without the need for additional containment sections and/or other protections.

[0099] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 comprises a plurality of LED diodes 41 connected to each other by means of the printed circuit 42 and which, together with this, are contained within a protective casing 43 that provides the strip with a degree of IP protection. defined, according to the IEC 60529 standard, which is:

- greater than or equal to 5, preferably equal to 6, as the first significant figure,

- greater than 1, preferably equal to or greater than 4, as the second significant figure.

[0100] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 comprises a plurality of LED diodes 41 connected to each other by the printed circuit 42 and which, with this, are at least partially (preferably completely) coated with a transparent resin (for example, a silicon dioxide base) that provides the strip with a degree of IP protection

- defined according to IEC 60529, which is:

- greater than or equal to 5, preferably equal to 6, as the first significant figure,

- greater than 1, preferably equal to or greater than 4, as the second significant figure.

[0101] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 can protrude from one or both ends 33 of the section bar 30; However, by presenting a high degree of IP protection (as defined above), solid particles or liquids from the external environment cannot come into contact with the LED diodes 41 or the electronic circuitry of a strip itself. Conveniently, in this way, the LED strip 40 is not affected by the problem of ambient humidity although it projects and protrudes from the ends of the section bar 30.

[0102] Furthermore, any changes in the atmosphere in this sense, for example, humidity or variations in the concentration of atmospheric dust, which are transmitted into the hollow seat 31 through the opening 50, do not constitute a detriment to the operation of the LED strip 40.

[0103] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 may be completely housed and hidden within the hollow seat 31 of the section bar 30 and, appropriately, in this case, may have a shorter length with respect to the longitudinal axis of the bar. profiled. Suitably, this avoids having to necessarily cut the section bar 30 to a length corresponding to the size of the LED strip 40.

[0104] Preferably, the section bar 30 is made of silicone, but it could also be made of PMMA, PVC, with and without additives, or, in general, it could be made of rubber or other polymeric material, both synthetic and natural, with high elasticity. Conveniently, the 30 section bar can also be made of plexiglass.

[0105] Preferably, the section bar 30 is made of elastic and flexible material, and this is advantageous in that it facilitates its assembly by interconnection within corresponding slots made in the corresponding metallic or rigid sections of the furniture or accessory. furniture. Advantageously, the section bar 30 is configured (i.e., has a size and shape) so that, once inserted into the longitudinal groove of a piece of furniture or a piece of furniture, it is substantially flush with the surrounding outer surface of these. . Advantageously, the section bar 30 can also be associated with the surface of a piece of furniture, a piece of furniture or any structure or installation in general through traditional mechanical fixing means or adhesive means.

[0106] Suitably, the section bar 30 may be configured externally to act as a joint profile or finish or decoration of a piece of furniture, a piece of furniture or the like.

[0107] Conveniently, the bar section 30 consists entirely, or at least part thereof, of a portion that transmits the light produced by the LED diodes 41 of the LED strip 40. Preferably, this portion is also configured to uniformly diffuse the light produced by the LED diodes 41 of the LED strip 40.

[0108] In particular, said portion of the section bar 30 is configured to allow transmission to the external environment of the light generated by said LED strip 40 with an indicative loss of between approximately 0-50%.

[0109] Preferably, the section bar 30 comprises, throughout its longitudinal extension or at least in a part thereof, a transparent portion to allow the total transmission of the light produced by the LED diodes 41 of the LED strip 40 ( that is, with a loss of approximately 0%).

[0110] Advantageously, the section bar 30 comprises, throughout its longitudinal development or at least in a part of it, a partially opaque portion, preferably with an opal effect, frosted (that is, transparent or with a frosted finish ) or milky white, to allow at the same time the transmission and homogeneous diffusion of the light produced by the LED diodes 41 of the LED strip 40. In this way, appropriately, a uniform lighting effect is obtained, i.e. , avoiding the effect of "dots" (that is, several different lights separated from each other).

[0111] Advantageously, the section bar 30 comprises at least two portions with different characteristics of both transmission and homogeneous diffusion of the light produced by the LED diodes 41 of the LED strip 40. Conveniently, these two or more portions of the Section bar 30 are obtained using two or more different materials that are extruded together during the manufacture of the section itself.

[0112] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 is associated, preferably at an end portion thereof, with a connector and/or electrical cable connection 60 with a mains power source, not shown, such as, for example , a battery or the electrical network.

[0113] Advantageously, the cables 60 connected to the LED strip 40 of the lighting devices 18 are electrically conductive cables connected to the interior of the furniture or to the furniture complement and, therefore, are hidden from view from the outside. .

[0114] Advantageously, the LED strip 40 of the lighting device 18 is also connected to a control device (not shown). Preferably, although not exclusively, the control device is of the type described in Italian patent application 102017000090501.

[0115] Conveniently, the control device comprises a power supply connected to the mains or a battery, and a processor that is preferably configured to perform pulse width modulation (PWM) of the supply voltage of the LED diodes. 41 of strip 40. Preferably, the processor is also configured to allow wireless connection (preferably by radio, via infrared, wifi...) with an external device (such as a remote control) to command activation / deactivation of the LED diodes 41, as well as the change in brightness generated by them.

[0116] From the above, it is evident that the section according to the invention is advantageous, and in particular:

- allows quick or practical or easy insertion of the LED strip inside it without risk of causing damage to the latter,

- prevents overheating of the LED strip that is inserted inside it,

- allows lighting that is uniform and aesthetically pleasing,

- the dimensions of its cross section (i.e. width and thickness) can also be particularly small and suitable for the type of strip used, thus allowing the LED strip housing to have different widths.

Claims (12)

1. Lighting device (18), preferably of the type that is installed in a piece of furniture, in a piece of furniture or similar, in a roof installation or in a structure or installation in which lighting is provided and/or requires, which It comprises a section bar (30), which is applied to a structure and/or installation (1) in which lighting is provided and/or required, and an LED strip (40), said section bar being made ( 30) of extruded polymeric material and being configured to define a hollow seat (31) therein that extends longitudinally to removably house said LED strip (40), where said section bar (30): - always presents, along at least a part of its longitudinal extension, at least one through opening (50), which also extends longitudinally, to always place said hollow seat (31), which is defined within the bar itself section (30), in communication with the outside - is configured so that the insertion of said LED strip (40) into the hollow seat (31) occurs through said through opening (50) and in a direction (45) that is angular, and that is preferably substantially orthogonal , with respect to the direction of longitudinal development of the profile itself, - comprises at least one portion that is configured to allow, at least in part, the transmission to the external environment of the light generated by said LED strip (40) that is intended to be housed within said hollow seat (31). - presents, in the longitudinal opening (50), a single portion (51) that is elastically deformable to allow its movement by its rotation around a longitudinal portion (53) of said section that acts as an articulation axis, after application of an external force (49) on said portion (51), so that said section bar passes from a first configuration, corresponding to the condition of use and the installation of the section bar itself, in which the hollow seat ( 31) is in communication with the exterior through said longitudinal through opening (50), to a second deformed open configuration in which the hollow seat (31) is in communication with the exterior through a passage (54) of such width to allow the insertion of the LED strip (40) inside said hollow seat (31), characterized in that, in the absence of external tensions, the width of the longitudinal opening 50 is less than both dimensions of the cross section of the LED strip 40, - the hollow seat (31) has, at least in part, a profile complementary to that of the LED strip (40) in which it is to be housed, and is shaped so that, once the LED strip (40) is inserted 40), remain stably in position on said seat, said LED strip (40) being inserted into said hollow seat (31) passing through said longitudinal opening (50) of said section bar (30) and in accordance with a direction (45) that is angular, and that preferably It is substantially orthogonal, with respect to the direction of longitudinal development of said section. 2. Lighting device according to claim 1, characterized in that: - said longitudinal opening (50) of the section bar (30) has, in the absence of external tensions, dimensions such as to prevent the passage of the LED strip (4) both at the entrance and at the exit of said hollow seat (31), and - said section bar (30) is configured so that the insertion of the LED strip (40) inside the hollow seat (31) takes place causing the widening of the longitudinal opening (50) of the section bar (30) to define a passage (54) of such width to allow said insertion. 3. Lighting device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said longitudinal opening (50) of the section bar (30) is formed to separate two portions (51, 52) from each other, which are formed in the same wall or on two different walls of the section bar (30). 4. Lighting device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cross section of the section bar (30) is shaped and sized so that said hollow seat (31) has a dimension (35) that corresponds to or is slightly higher than the largest dimension of the cross section of the LED strip (40) that is inserted and housed in said hollow seat. 5. Lighting device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the cross-sectional area of the hollow seat (31) of the section bar (30) is greater than the cross-sectional area of the strip of LED (40) inserted and housed in said seat. 6. Lighting device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said deformable portion (51) of the section bar (30) is configured to receive as a support said LED strip (40) housed within said hollow seat. (31). 7. Lighting device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in correspondence with said through opening (50) of the section bar (30), no coupling or hooking means are provided for the facing portions of said section bar between which said through opening (50) is defined. 8. Lighting device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that said section bar (30) is configured, at least in a portion thereof, to homogeneously diffuse the light produced by the LED strip (40). ) housed and inserted in said hollow seat (31). 9. Lighting device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the section bar comprises at least two portions with different characteristics for both transmission and diffusion of the light produced by the LED diodes (41) of the lighting strip. LED (40), said at least two portions of the section bar (30) being obtained using at least two different materials that are extruded together during the manufacture of the section bar itself. 10. Lighting device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the section bar is configured externally to act as a sealing and/or finishing and/or decoration section of said structure and/or said installation (1 ) in which it is intended to be applied. 11. Lighting device according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the LED strip (40) is configured to present, by itself, a degree of IP protection, which is defined in accordance with the IEC 60529 standard, what is it: - greater than or equal to 5, preferably equal to 6, as the first significant figure, - greater than 1, preferably equal to or greater than 4, as the second significant figure. 12. Installation and/or structure, such as, for example, a roof installation, a piece of furniture and/or a furniture accessory, in which lighting is provided and/or required, characterized in that it comprises at least one lighting device (18) according to one or more of the preceding claims, the section bar (30) of said device (18) being applied to a surface or within an element of said installation and/or structure.