WO2023175118A2

WO2023175118A2 - Functional head system and method for securing the same

Info

Publication number: WO2023175118A2
Application number: PCT/EP2023/056833
Authority: WO
Inventors: Russell PILBEAM; Richard Bentley; Toon REYNDERS; Julien POUILLY
Original assignee: Schreder S.A.
Priority date: 2022-03-16
Filing date: 2023-03-16
Publication date: 2023-09-21
Also published as: WO2023175118A3; NL2031492B1

Abstract

A functional head system comprising a connector base configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole, and a functional head configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base by means of a biunique fitting mechanism defining a key profile, wherein the functional head system is configured to enable at least one rotational movement of at least a portion of the functional head when the functional head is mounted on the connector base.

Description

FUNCTIONAL HEAD SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SECURING THE SAME

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to functional heads, such as luminaire heads, and methods. Particular embodiments relate to a functional head system, such as a luminaire head system, and a method for securing the functional head system to a support.

BACKGROUND

Generally, a functional head, such as a luminaire head, can be fixed to a support, e.g. a wall or a pole, using conventional fastening means such as screws or bolts and associated nuts. Especially for heavy functional heads, said conventional way of fixing a functional head to a support may lead to a difficult and unstable mounting of the functional head for the operator or user on site. In addition, said conventional fastening means may not be designed to carry the weight of the functional head in a secure way.

In the commonly used outdoor luminaires, the luminaire head angle, defined as the angle between the luminaire head and a support, such as a wall or the end of a pole connecting said luminaire head, is fixed, or is inconvenient to adjust. Therefore, the light distribution of the outdoor luminaire is not adequately adjustable according to the characteristics of the environment to be lighted, such as the width of a road. Hence, it is necessary to manufacture outdoor luminaires of different inclinations corresponding to different luminaire head angles, according e.g. to the width of different road surfaces or the height of the luminaire head, thereby increasing the manufacturing costs.

The above-mentioned drawback in the prior art also occurs in systems other than luminaire head systems, for example functional head systems comprising a camera, an antenna, a loudspeaker, or any sensor, for which a field of view (FOV), or a sensing and/or emitting direction, is not adequately adjustable according to the characteristics of the environment to be sensed, monitored, or targeted.

SUMMARY

An object of embodiments of the invention is to provide a functional head system, such as a luminaire head system. More in particular, embodiments of the invention aim at providing a functional head system, such as a luminaire head system, which can be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole, in a convenient and robust way, and for which at least one rotation angle can be adjusted on site, depending on the site to be monitored, sensed, or illuminated and/or the specific application. In addition, embodiments of the invention provide a method for securing such a functional head system to such a support. Embodiments of the invention also provide a method for adjusting at least one orientation of such a functional head system when secured to such a support.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a functional head system, such as a luminaire head for a luminaire, preferably an outdoor luminaire. Said functional head system comprises a connector base configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole, and a functional head configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base by means of a biunique fitting mechanism defining a key profile. The functional head system is configured to enable at least one rotational movement of at least a portion of the functional head when the functional head is mounted on the connector base.

Embodiments of the invention are based inter alia on the insight that, in conventional systems, the functional head, such as a luminaire head, may be first secured to a mounting base by means of at least one first screw, and subsequently the entire functional head, i.e., also comprising the mounting base, may be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole, by means of at least one further screw or a bolt and corresponding nut. This may result in functional heads that may be significantly heavy, thereby leading to a difficult and unstable mounting thereof on e.g. a wall or a pole for the operator or user on site. In addition, a structure of the functional head and/or of the support may be damaged, especially in the case of heavy functional heads, because said first screw carries a substantial part of the weight of the functional head. Therefore, there is a risk of damage or even breakage of said first screw. This applies to luminaire head systems as well as to other functional head systems, for example systems comprising a camera, an antenna, a loudspeaker, or any sensor.

Embodiments of the invention are based inter alia on the further insight that, in conventional systems, an angle of the functional head may simply not be adjustable, or may be inconvenient to adjust, especially in the case the entire functional head, i.e., the functional head housing and all its components, may be orientable with respect to a support, such as a wall or a pole. As mentioned above, this may result in orientable functional heads that may be significantly heavy, thereby leading to a difficult and unstable mounting thereof on e.g. a wall or a pole for the operator or user on site. Thus, in the case of a luminaire head system, the light distribution of conventional luminaires is not adequately adjustable according to the characteristics of the environment to be lighted, such as the width of a road. This also applies to systems other than luminaire head systems, for example functional head systems comprising a camera, an antenna, a loudspeaker, or any sensor, for which a field of view (FOV), or a sensing and/or emitting direction, is not adequately adjustable according to the characteristics of the environment to be sensed, monitored, or targeted.

In the functional head system of embodiments of the invention, the functional head is configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base by means of a biunique fitting mechanism defining a key profile.

In the context of the invention, the term “biunique fitting mechanism” should be construed as a mechanism enabling a one-to-one correspondence of shapes, dimensions, and orientation of a portion of the functional head and the connector base at a connection interface between the functional head and the connector base. The wording “mechanism” implies a mechanical connection between the portion of the functional head and the connector base at said interface. By “one-to-one correspondence”, it is meant that to each shape, dimensions, and orientation of the portion of the functional head at said connection interface corresponds a shape, dimensions, and orientation of the connector base, and vice versa. In other words, shapes, dimensions, and orientation of the connector base are configured to match shapes, dimensions, and orientation of the portion of the functional head at said connection interface. In addition, any variations in the shape and dimensions of the portion of the functional head at said connection interface imply corresponding variations in the shape and dimensions of the connector base, and vice versa. This is implied by the wording “biunique”, which means that shapes, dimensions, and orientation of the portion of the functional head and the connector base at said connection interface are unique to one another. This is also implied by the wording “fitting”, which is a synonym of “matching”, and which means that the shapes, dimensions, and orientations of the portion of the functional head at said connection interface and the connector base are complementary.

Further, in the context of the invention, the term “key profile” should be construed in accordance with the construction of the wording “biunique fitting mechanism”, as a profile having a shape of a key. By “key”, it is meant that two elements presenting such a profile have complementary shapes and dimensions so as to form together a biunique fitting mechanism, as defined above. In other words, the portion of the functional head at said connection interface and the connector base presenting such a key profile have complementary shapes and dimensions so as to form together the biunique fitting mechanism.

Therefore, in the functional head system of the invention, because the connector base can be first secured to the support, e.g. by means of screws or bolts and associated nuts, and subsequently the functional head can be releasably mounted on the connector base by means of the above-defined biunique fitting mechanism, this leads to a more convenient and more stable mounting thereof on e.g. a wall or a pole for the operator or user on site than in conventional systems.

In addition, the above-defined biunique fitting mechanism is able to carry a substantial part of the weight of the functional head. Because said biunique fitting mechanism can be designed to be more robust than a mere screw, such as the above-mentioned at least one first screw used in conventional systems, the risk of damage or even breakage of said biunique fitting mechanism is reduced, thereby reducing the risk that a structure of the functional head and/or of the support be damaged.

Moreover, in the functional head system of embodiments of the invention, the functional head system is configured to enable at least one rotational movement of at least a portion of the functional head when the functional head is mounted on the connector base. In other words, at least one supplementary degree of freedom is enabled by the functional head system of the invention.

Therefore, the fixation of the functional head system to the support is improved, whilst a stable and adjustable rotation of at least a portion of the functional head is enabled in a plurality of positions corresponding to different orientations of the functional head. Hence, a more convenient, stable, and robust mounting of the functional head is provided, especially if it is significantly heavy.

Preferred embodiments relate to a luminaire head for an outdoor luminaire. By outdoor luminaire, it is meant luminaires which are installed on roads, tunnels, industrial plants, stadiums, airports, harbors, rail stations, campuses, parks, cycle paths, pedestrian paths or in pedestrian zones, for example, and which can be used notably for the lighting of an outdoor area, such as roads and residential areas in the public domain, private parking areas, access roads to private building infrastructures, warehouses, industry halls, etc.

The above-mentioned biunique fitting mechanism and key profile will be further defined and described in the following embodiments.

According to a preferred embodiment, the connector base comprises a cavity, and the functional head comprises a connector configured to contact the connector base. Said connector comprises an insert element having a shape configured to fit a shape of the cavity.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the connector base comprises a recessed flange and a surrounding wall defining the cavity, and the insert element is configured to be accommodated within said recessed flange. According to a preferred embodiment, said cavity and said insert element define together said biunique fitting mechanism, and said shape of the cavity and said shape of the insert element define together said key profile.

According to a preferred embodiment, the key profile has at most one symmetry axis.

Preferably, a shape of the insert element may be designed symmetrically with respect to the symmetry axis. For example, a shape of the insert element may comprise protrusions arranged symmetrically with respect to the symmetry axis of the insert element. It should be clear to the skilled person that other shapes of the insert element may be envisaged.

Preferably, a shape of the recessed flange may be designed symmetrically with respect to the symmetry axis. For example, a shape of the recessed flange may comprise corresponding recesses arranged symmetrically with respect to the symmetry axis of the recessed flange. It should be clear to the skilled person that other shapes of the recesses may be envisaged, provided that the shapes and dimensions of said recesses match the shapes and dimensions of said protrusions according to the above-mentioned one-to-one correspondence.

In this way, a single position and orientation for mounting and unmounting the functional head on/from the connector base may be provided. In some embodiments, the key profile may have no symmetry axis. For example, one protrusion of the insert element may have a dimension and/or an orientation different from the other protrusions. It should be clear to the skilled person that, in other embodiments, the key profile may have more than one symmetry axis, for example two symmetry axes. Thus, in said embodiments, the functional head may be mounted/unmounted on/from the connector base in two different relative positions and orientations in accordance with the key profile.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the connector base and the connector have a substantially circular outer shape, and an outer diameter of the connector base is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the connector.

In this way, a suitable connection interface between the functional head and the connector base is provided, in particular between the connector of the functional head and the connector base. Also, a contact surface between the connector of the functional head and the connector base is optimized. According to a preferred embodiment, said at least one rotational movement comprises a first rotational movement of the functional head with respect to the connector base around a first rotation axis perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base, preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°.

In other words, the biunique fitting mechanism that connects the functional head and the connector base is different from a so-called “twist and lock” mechanism in that the latter mechanism implies to lock the functional head to the connector base, i.e., to secure the functional head to the connector base. Indeed, the wordings “lock” and “secure” mean that pressure is applied onto the functional head and the connector base so as to firmly connect them and maintain them in contact with each other. By contrast, in the functional head system of embodiments of the invention, at least one rotational movement of at least a portion of the functional head is enabled by the functional head system when the functional head is mounted on the connector base. In other words, at least one supplementary degree of freedom is enabled by the functional head system of the invention with respect to a functional head system wherein a conventional twist and lock mechanism is used.

Therefore, a fine adjustment of the angle of the functional head is enabled with respect to the connector base over a sufficiently large angular range, thereby providing a functional head for which the rotation angle can be conveniently adjusted on site, depending on the site to be sensed, monitored, targeted, or illuminated in the case of a luminaire head system, and/or the specific application and/or the characteristics of the environment to be sensed, monitored, targeted, or lighted in the case of a luminaire head system, such as the width of a road.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the connector base comprises a first fastening means, preferably at least one first screw, more preferably at least two first screws, configured to block said first rotational movement. It should be clear to the skilled persons that, in other embodiments, other kinds of first fastening means may be envisaged to block said first rotational movement.

Thus, after rotating the functional head with respect to the connector base by a given angle, the functional head may be fixed to the connector base at a given position by said first fastening means. Said first fastening means only needs to block said first rotational movement, not to firmly secure the functional head to the connector base. Thus, in the case of screw(s) used as a fastening means, said at least one first screw need not be robust. According to a preferred embodiment, said at least one rotational movement comprises a second rotational movement of the functional head around a second rotation axis parallel to a plane defined by the connector base, preferably over substantially 180°.

The connector base may have a substantially cylindrical shape, having a first surface substantially circular, a second surface substantially circular opposite said first surface, and a peripheral surface substantially annular between said first and second surfaces. Thus, each of said first and second surfaces may define a plane, and the rotation axis may be defined as an axis parallel to said plane.

Thus, at least a portion of the functional head may be rotated with respect to the connector and the connector base around the above-defined rotation axis, in order to adjust on site, in the case of a luminaire head system, the light distribution of the luminaire head according to characteristics of an environment to be lighted, depending on the site to be illuminated and/or the specific application, or in order to adjust the FOV or the sensing and/or emission direction of other functional head systems. Preferably, substantially the entire functional head, i.e., all portions of the functional head other than the connector, may be rotated with respect to the connector and the connector base around the above rotation axis.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the functional head comprises a second fastening means, preferably at least one second screw, more preferably at least two second screws, configured to block said second rotational movement. It should be clear to the skilled persons that, in other embodiments, other kinds of second fastening means may be envisaged to block said second rotational movement.

Thus, after rotating at least the portion of the functional head with respect to the connector and the connector base by a given angle, the functional head may be fixed to the connector and the connector base at a given position by said second fastening means.

According to a preferred embodiment, the connector comprises a protruding portion on a side thereof opposite the connector base, and the functional head further comprises a rotary portion configured to rotate with respect to the protruding portion.

According to an exemplary embodiment, said second fastening means, preferably said at least one second screw, extends through the protruding portion and the rotary portion. According to a preferred embodiment, the protruding portion is provided with a first channel configured to receive an electrical wire extending from the connector base, and the rotary portion is provided with a second channel configured to guide said wire to the inside of the functional head.

In this way, an electrical wire for feeding the functional head with power and/or data signals may be suitably arranged, whilst enabling said second rotational movement of the functional head.

According to a preferred embodiment, the connector base comprises a through-hole and/or a peripheral recess for receiving an electrical wire extending between the support and the functional head.

As an example, the electrical wire may extend through the connector base via the through-hole. In the former example, the electrical wire coming from a rear side of the connector base may enter the connector base via the through-hole and exit the connector base towards the functional head via a front side of the connector base.

As another example, the electrical wire may extend via the peripheral recess provided to the connector base but not through the connector base, although a through-hole is provided to the connector base. In the latter example, an element of the connector base covering the peripheral recess may be removed to have access to the peripheral recess, so that the electrical wire coming from a lateral side of the connector base can enter the connector base via the peripheral recess and exit the connector base towards the functional head via a front side of the connector base.

In this way, an electrical wire for feeding the functional head with power and/or data signals may be suitably arranged in two different configurations, whilst enabling said first rotational movement of the functional head.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head comprises a functional module and a gear module optionally provided with means for driving the functional module. The functional module may comprise at least one of a light source, an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, a light projecting means such as a projector, a display, or a laser. The camera may correspond to a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera. The IR sensor may correspond to a passive IR, PIR, sensor. The light projecting means may be configured to project images, logos, photos, texts, and the like. Signals may be sent to and/or from the communication means via a wireless network operating over short-range or long-range communication, e.g. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, LORA (loT), IR, cellular, or via a wired network, e.g. Ethernet, DALI, DMX, RS485, USB.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the sensing means is selected from: an optical sensor such as a photodetector or an image sensor, a sound sensor, a radar such as a Doppler effect radar, a LIDAR, a humidity sensor, an air quality sensor, a temperature sensor, a motion sensor, an antenna such as a Bluetooth antenna for a Bluetooth sensor, an RF sensor, a metering device, a vibration sensor, a malfunctioning sensor, an alarm device (e.g. a push button which a user can push in the event of an alarming situation).

In this way, environmental data about an event in the vicinity of the functional head may be detected, e.g. characteristics (presence, absence, state, number, direction, speed, wearing mask or not) of objects like vehicles, street furniture, animals, persons, sub-parts of the functional head, or properties related to the environment (like weather (rain, fog, sun, wind), pollution, visibility, earth quake) or security related events (explosion, incident, gun shot, user alarm) in the vicinity of the functional head, maintenance related data or malfunctioning data of a component of the functional head.

Other examples of sensing means are provided in PCT publications WO 2019/243331 Al and WO 2019/043045 Al in the name of the applicant, which are included herein by reference.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head comprises a light module provided with a light source, and a gear module provided with a light source driving means.

According to a preferred embodiment, said at least one rotational movement comprises a third rotational movement of the functional module with respect to the gear module around a third rotation axis intersecting the functional module and the gear module, preferably over substantially 180°.

Thus, the functional module may be rotated with respect to the gear module in order to adjust on site the light distribution of a luminaire head according to characteristics of an environment to be lighted, depending on the site to be illuminated and/or the specific application, or in order to adjust the FOV or the sensing and/or emission direction of other functional head systems.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the functional head comprises a third fastening means, preferably at least one third screw, more preferably at least two third screws, configured to block said third rotational movement. It should be clear to the skilled persons that, in other embodiments, other kinds of third fastening means may be envisaged to block said third rotational movement. According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head comprises a frame arranged between the functional module and the gear module, said frame being connected to the functional module and configured to enable said third rotational movement.

According to an exemplary embodiment, said frame comprises a curved groove, preferably a semicircular groove, and the functional module comprises a pin extending in said curved groove and configured to move along said curved groove during said third rotational movement.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the frame comprises at least two legs configured to be connected to said third fastening means, preferably to said at least two third screws, and said third fastening means is configured to secure the frame inside the functional head.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head comprises a front portion wherein the functional module is arranged and a rear portion wherein the gear module is arranged, and the frame is configured to be secured to the rear portion of the functional head.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head further comprises an annular ring configured to be connected to the functional module and to contact the frame, and the frame is configured to be arranged between said annular ring and the functional module.

In order to enable said third rotational movement, the third fastening means may be unfastened, thereby releasing the pressure exerted by the functional module and the annular ring on the frame. Indeed, when said third fastening means is fastened to the rear portion of the functional head, in particular to the rear portion of the gear housing, the frame may be fastened between a rear side of the functional module, for example a rear side of a light support such as a PCB in the case of a light module, and the annular ring.

Upon release of said pressure, a gap may be created between the frame and the functional module, in particular the light support. Another gap may be created between the frame and the annular ring. Hence, the functional module may be free to rotate with respect to the gear module, and in particular with respect to the frame. The pin of the functional module, which extends in the semi-circular groove of the frame, may move along said groove during said third rotational movement.

According to a preferred embodiment, the gear module comprises any one or more of the following: a light source dimming means, surge protection circuitry, electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuitry, connecting means, a fuse, a metering circuitry, a driving and/or control circuitry for any electrical components of the functional head, such as any electrical components of any one of the light source, the image sensing means, the communication means, the sensing means, the loudspeaker, and the light projecting means.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional module comprises a functional housing and a functional cover covering the light source or sensing means or communication means or light projecting means, and configured to be releasably attached to the functional housing.

According to a preferred embodiment, the gear module comprises a gear support on which an electrical/electronic component, such as a driving means of the above light source or sensing means or communication means or light projecting means is arranged, and a gear housing.

The embodiments below are described in relation to a functional head corresponding to a luminaire head, i.e., in relation to a functional module corresponding to a light module.

According to a preferred embodiment, the light module comprises a light housing and a light cover covering the light source and configured to be releasably attached to the light housing.

According to a preferred embodiment, the gear module comprises a gear support on which a light source driving means is arranged, and a gear housing.

According to a preferred embodiment, the light source comprises a light support, such as a PCB, on which a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) is mounted. The LEDs may be arranged in an array of multiple columns and rows.

According to a preferred embodiment, the gear module comprises any one or more of the following: a light source dimming means, surge protection circuitry, electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuitry, connecting means, a fuse, a metering circuitry, a driving and/or control circuitry for any electrical components of the luminaire head.

Surge protection circuitry is provided to absorb energy and protect the driver, typically including a LED driver circuit, and optionally a light source dimming means. The role of an ESD protection circuitry is to reduce the risk of accumulating electrostatic charge to a critical level so as to avoid that ESD happen through an insulation layer and damage semiconductor components such as LEDs. Optionally, a flux exhauster may be arranged at a side of the luminaire head, around the light source. In addition or alternatively, an inner surface of said side may be painted or coated to fulfill the function of flux exhauster itself. A flux exhauster in the context of the present invention is typically plate-like and has a surface with good reflective properties.

According to a preferred embodiment, the luminaire head is provided with a heat sink including a plurality of cooling fins. A heat sink enables dissipation of heat generated by the light source towards the outside of the luminaire head. It should be clear to the skilled person that functional heads other than a luminaire head may be provided with a heat sink, such as the above list of functional heads.

According to a preferred embodiment, one or more optical elements are associated with the light source. The one or more optical elements may comprise a plurality of lens elements associated with the plurality of LEDs, e.g. grouped in a lens plate. However, also other types of optical elements may be additionally or alternatively present, such as reflectors, backlights, prisms, collimators, diffusors, and the like. In the context of the invention, a lens element may include any transmissive optical element that focuses or disperses light by means of refraction. It may also include any one of the following: a reflective portion, a backlight portion, a prismatic portion, a collimator portion, a diffusor portion. For example, a lens element may have a lens portion with a concave or convex surface facing a LED, or more generally a lens portion with a flat or curved surface facing the LED, and optionally a collimator portion integrally formed with said lens portion, said collimator portion being configured for collimating light transmitted through said lens portion. Also, a lens element may be provided with a reflective portion or surface or with a diffusive portion.

PCT publications WO 2020/249684 Al, WO 2020/058282 Al, and WO 2021/186058 Al, and Dutch patent applications with application numbers NL2021671 and NL2025166 in the name of the applicant, which disclose a variety of reflective barriers in conjunction with light sources and associated optical elements, are also included herein by reference.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the light source may comprise a plurality of first light elements such as LEDs and one or more associated first optical elements configured to output a first light beam having a first color temperature according to a first intensity distribution within a first solid angle, and a plurality of second light elements such as LEDs and one or more associated second optical elements configured to output a second light beam having a second color temperature according to a second intensity distribution within a second solid angle. The second intensity distribution may be different from the first intensity distribution. Also, the second color temperature may be different from the first color temperature. Exemplary embodiments of such light sources are disclosed in Dutch patent application with application number NL2024571 in the name of the applicant which is included herein by reference. In addition, Dutch patent application with application number NL2032294 in the name of the applicant, which discloses side emitting LEDs, is included herein by reference.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the light source may comprise RGB and/or RGBW and/or RGBA LEDs and associated control circuitry for controlling the color emitted by the light source. Patents US 10,539,272 and EP 3 260 761 Bl in the name of the applicant, which disclose a variety of LED color distributions, are included herein by reference.

PCT publications WO 2020/025427 Al, WO 2019/134875 Al, WO 2020/074229 Al, WO 2020/136202 Al, WO 2020/136200 Al, WO 2020/136205 Al, WO 2020/136203 Al, WO 2020/136204 Al, WO 2020/136197 Al, WO 2020/136196 Al, and WO 2022/023441 Al in the name of the applicant, which disclose adaptive lighting in the form of deformable optical elements, movable optical elements or modular optical elements, are also included herein by reference.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the luminaire head, in particular the light module, further comprises a transparent or translucent portion facing the light source. Optionally, a color filter arranged between the light source and the transparent or translucent portion. For example, the color filter may be a sheet arranged above the transparent or translucent portion. The color filter is configured to absorb a portion of the light emitted by the light source in specific wavelength ranges so as to change the color of the light emitted by the luminaire head. Preferably, the color filter is accessible by opening the luminaire head, in particular the light module. In that way, the color filter can be easily changed, e.g. when it is desirable to change the color of the emitted light for a special occasion or festivity.

According to embodiments of the invention, the luminaire head comprises a housing wherein the light source, the electrical/electronic components, and optionally the heat sink and flux exhauster are arranged. The above-mentioned transparent or translucent portion facing the light source may be part of the housing. Preferably, the transparent or translucent portion and the housing form a sealed housing. In some embodiments, the luminaire head can have an overall round shape, i.e., any one or more of the components of the luminaire head may have a round shape. In other embodiments, the luminaire head may have an overall polygonal shape, such as a square or rectangular shape. Thus, any one or more of the components of the luminaire head may have a polygonal shape. Also mixed shapes are possible. This also applies to systems other than luminaire head systems, for example the above-mentioned different types of functional head systems. According to an exemplary embodiment, the overall shape of the luminaire head corresponds to a spotlight. The spotlight may correspond to an outdoor spotlight, with suitable ingress protection (IP) rating such as IP66 or IP67, or an indoor spotlight, with suitable IP rating such as IP22-IP24 or more.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the functional head, e.g. a luminaire head, comprises a light shield. The light shield may have an asymmetrical shape, with a first height larger than a second height. Said first height may be at least two times larger than said second height, preferably at least three times larger, more preferably at least four times larger.

In this way, the light distribution of the luminaire head may be modified, and light beams emitted from the light source may be redirected towards a preferential direction, e.g., a ground surface, a ceiling, or vertical wall surfaces. Indeed, a portion of the light shield having said first height intercepts and redirects more light rays emitted from the light source than a portion of the light shield having said second height.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head system comprises an external module mounted thereon, in particular on a bottom surface of the gear housing. The external module may be plugged in a receiving means of the gear housing, such as a receptacle, and may be removably fixed to the gear housing. The external module may comprise different functionalities, such as control functionalities and/or sensing functionalities and/or communication functionalities.

Providing an external module to a functional head, such as a luminaire head, has been described in detail in at least PCT applications PCT/EP2021/071616 and PCT/EP2022/050240 in the name of the applicant, and in PCT publications WO 2017/133793 Al, WO 2020/212515 Al, and WO 2021/001544 Al in the name of the applicant, which are included herein by reference. Preferably, the receptacle, also called a socket, is one of a NEMA or Zhaga receptacle, and the external module is a control module configured to be plugged in such receptacle. According to an exemplary embodiment, the receptacle may be implemented as described in the above-mentioned PCT publication WO 2017/133793 Al. Optionally, the receptacle and the external module may be configured and/or mounted as described in the above-mentioned PCT publications WO 2020/212515 Al and WO 2021/001544 Al. The receptacle and the control module may be configured to be coupled through a twist-lock mechanism, e.g. as described in ANSI C136.10-2017 standard or ANSI C136.41-2013 standard or Zhaga Interface Specification Standard (Book 18, Edition 1.0, July 2018, https://www.zhagastandard.0rg/data/downloadables/l/O/8/l/book 18.pdf or Book 20: Smart interface between indoor luminaires and sensing/communication modules), which are included herein by reference. According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a method for securing the functional head system of any one of the above-mentioned embodiments to a support, such as a wall or a pole. The method comprises securing the connector base to the support, mounting the functional head on the connector base by means of the biunique fitting mechanism, rotating at least a portion of the functional head, and blocking a rotational movement of at least said portion of the functional head.

The skilled person will understand that the hereinabove described technical considerations and advantages for the functional head system embodiments of the first aspect also apply to the corresponding method embodiments of the second aspect, mutatis mutandis.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the step of mounting the functional head on the connector base by means of the biunique fitting mechanism comprises inserting the functional head into the connector base in a first orientation in accordance with the key profile, and rotating the functional head with respect to the connector base around a first rotation axis perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base to a second orientation at an angle from the first orientation, preferably at an angle of at least 5° from the first orientation.

In this way, it is ensured that the functional head is correctly mounted on the connector base. Indeed, the above-mentioned rotation of at least 5° ensures that the second orientation of the functional head, in particular of the insert element, does not correspond to the orientation of the connector base, in particular of the recessed flange, and thus that the functional head may not be unmounted from the connector base in said second orientation.

According to a preferred embodiment, the step of rotating at least the portion of the functional head comprises any one or more of the following steps: rotating the functional head with respect to the connector base around a first rotation axis perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base, preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°, rotating the functional head around a second rotation axis parallel to a plane defined by the connector base, preferably over substantially 180°, and rotating a functional module of the functional head with respect to a gear module of the functional head around a third rotation axis intersecting the functional module and the gear module, preferably over substantially 180°.

According to a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises, before mounting the functional head on the connector base by means of the biunique fitting mechanism, the step of connecting an electrical wire extending from the support to the functional head. According to an exemplary embodiment wherein the functional head system is configured to be secured to a pole, the step of mounting the functional head on the connector base by means of the biunique fitting mechanism comprises inserting the functional head into the connector base in a first orientation in accordance with the key profile, and rotating the functional head with respect to the connector base around a first rotation axis perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base to a second orientation at an angle from the first orientation, preferably at an angle of substantially 180° from the first orientation.

According to a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises, during or after securing the functional head system to the support, i.e., during or after installation of the functional head, the step of verifying the orientation of the functional head with respect to the connector base and/or the orientation of a portion of the functional head, such as the functional module, with respect to another portion of the functional head, such as the gear module. Exemplary embodiments of different types of luminaire head orientation verification methods are disclosed in PCT patent applications WO 2019/0000002 Al and WO 2021/191454 Al in the name of the applicant which are included herein by reference. WO 2019/0000002 Al discloses a system and method which allow the notification of an angular position of a luminaire head with respect to a mounting base for a more apparent determination of the positioning of the luminaire head and a more accurate correction of its angular position. WO 2021/191454 Al discloses a system and method for checking a status of a luminaire. A mobile terminal is used in a vicinity of the luminaire, and includes a sensing means, a memory, a communication means, and a control means.

According to a preferred embodiment, a functional head control system comprises the functional head of any one of the above-mentioned embodiments and a remote device. The functional head comprises a sensor assembly configured for measuring at least one tilt angle representative for an angular positioning of the functional head, a communication interface configured for communicating with the remote device, and a control module configured for controlling the sensor assembly to perform measurements during a first period upon activation of the functional head after installation thereof on the connector base, and for controlling the communication through the communication interface such that measurement data from said first period and an identification of the functional head is communicated to the remote device. The remote device is configured to determine position information data of the functional head, based on the received measurement data, said position information data indicating whether the functional head is positioned correctly, and optionally comprising information about the required correction. The functional head control system further comprises at least one notification module configured for receiving the position information data from the remote device and for notifying a field operator accordingly.

According to a preferred embodiment, a mobile terminal is used in a vicinity of the functional head, and includes a sensing means, a memory, a communication means, and a control means. The control means of the above-mentioned mobile terminal is configured to obtain an identifier of the functional head, determine, based on the obtained identifier of the functional head, a measure of an angular positioning of the functional head to be acquired, acquire, by the sensing means of the mobile terminal, the measure of the angular positioning of the functional head, and store, in the memory of the mobile terminal, data about the acquired measure of said angular positioning of the functional head, said data being associated to said identifier of the functional head.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head comprises a first indication means for indicating an orientation of the functional head with respect to the connector base, in accordance with the above-mentioned first rotational movement. Said first indication means may comprise markings arranged on the luminaire head, in particular on the connector, and/or on the connector base, in particular on a peripheral outer surface of the connector base.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head comprises a second indication means for indicating an orientation of the functional head in accordance with the above-mentioned second rotational movement. Said second indication means may comprise markings arranged on the luminaire head, in particular on the protruding portion and/or on the rotary portion.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head comprises a third indication means for indicating an orientation of a portion of the functional head with respect to another portion of the functional head, in accordance with the above-mentioned third rotational movement. Said third indication means may comprise markings arranged on the functional module, in particular on a peripheral outer surface of the functional housing and/or the functional cover, and/or on the gear module, in particular on a peripheral outer surface of the gear housing.

According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a functional head system comprising a functional head configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole, said functional head comprising a functional module and a gear module. The functional head comprises a front portion wherein the functional module is arranged, and a rear portion wherein the gear module is arranged. The functional module is configured to rotate with respect to the gear module around a rotational axis intersecting the functional module and the gear module. In this way, in the case of a luminaire head system comprising a light module, by rotating the light module with respect to the gear module around said rotational axis, a light distribution of the luminaire head may be adequately adjusted according to the characteristics of the environment to be lighted.

In functional head systems other than a luminaire head system, the functional module may comprise at least one of an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, etc., having an asymmetric field of view (FOV), or an asymmetric sensing and/or emitting direction. In this way, by rotating the functional module with respect to the gear module around said rotational axis, an FOV or a sensing and/or emitting direction the functional module may be adequately adjusted according to the characteristics of the environment to be sensed, monitored, or targeted.

The skilled person will understand that the hereinabove described technical considerations and advantages for the functional head system embodiments of the first aspect also apply to the corresponding functional head system embodiments of the third aspect, mutatis mutandis.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional module and the gear module have a rotational symmetric shape, preferably a cylindrical or tronconical shape, and the rotational axis is a symmetry axis of the functional head. The rotational axis may be perpendicular to a plane defined by the functional module. The rotational axis may also be perpendicular to a plane defined by the gear module.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional module is configured to rotate with respect to the gear module by an angle of at least 90°, preferably by an angle of substantially 180°, i.e., by an angle of substantially 90° clockwise and by an angle of substantially 90° counterclockwise with respect to a reference position of the functional module 121 corresponding to an angle of 0°.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head comprises a fastening means, preferably at least one screw, more preferably at least two screws, configured to block said rotation of the functional module. Said rotation and said at least two screws may respectively correspond to the third rotational movement and the at least two third screws described in the above embodiments. The at least two screws may be unfastened, then the functional module may be rotated with respect to the gear module by a given angle, and the at least two screws may be fastened again in order to block the rotation of the functional module at a desired position with respect to the gear module.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional head comprises a frame arranged between the functional module and the gear module, said frame being connected to the functional module and configured to enable said rotation of the functional module. Said frame may correspond to the frame described in the above embodiments.

According to a preferred embodiment, said frame comprises a curved groove, preferably a semicircular groove, and the functional module comprises a pin extending in said curved groove and configured to move along said curved groove during said rotation.

According to a preferred embodiment, the frame comprises at least two legs configured to be connected to said fastening means, and wherein said fastening means is configured to secure the frame to the rear portion of the functional head.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional module comprises at least one of a light source, an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, a light projecting means such as a projector, a display, or a laser. The camera may correspond to a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera. The IR sensor may correspond to a passive IR, PIR, sensor. The light projecting means may be configured to project images, logos, photos, texts, and the like.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional module comprises a light source having an asymmetric light distribution. For example, the light source may comprise lenses and/or collimators arranged over corresponding LEDs, said lenses and/or collimators having an asymmetric shape so as to provide the light source of a luminaire head with an asymmetric light distribution. Said asymmetric lenses may correspond to free-form lenses. The lenses and/or collimators may be integrally formed as a lens/collimator plate covering the LEDs of the light source. According to a fourth aspect of the invention, there is provided a functional system comprising a support, such as a wall or a pole, and a plurality of functional head systems according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments of the first aspect of the invention. Said plurality of functional head systems are secured to the support and arranged one above the other along a longitudinal direction of the support.

According to a fifth aspect of the invention, there is provided a functional system comprising a support, such as a wall or a pole, and a plurality of functional head systems according to any one of the above-mentioned embodiments of the third aspect of the invention. Said plurality of functional head systems are secured to the support and arranged one above the other along a longitudinal direction of the support.

According to a preferred embodiment of the fourth aspect or the fifth aspect of the invention, the pole comprises a lower portion, an intermediate portion, and an upper portion. One or more first functional head systems having a first size are configured to be secured to said lower portion, one or more second functional head systems having a second size smaller than said first size are configured to be secured to said intermediate portion, and one or more third functional head systems having a third size smaller than said second size are configured to be secured to said upper portion.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional heads are releasably mounted on their respective connector base by means of the above-defined biunique fitting mechanism. The functional heads may be rotated with respect to their respective connector base according to the above- mentioned first rotational movement. Alternatively or in addition, the functional heads may be rotated according to the above-mentioned second rotational movement. Alternatively or in addition, the functional module of the functional heads may be rotated with respect to the gear module of the functional heads according to the above-mentioned third rotational movement.

According to a preferred embodiment, each functional head is oriented differently from the others. Alternatively, some functional heads may have the same or similar orientation. In the case of luminaire heads, the orientation of the luminaire heads with respect to the pole may depend on lighting characteristics to be achieved. Thus, the light distribution of each luminaire head can be adjusted on site according to characteristics of an environment to be lighted, depending on the site to be illuminated and/or the specific application. This also applies to functional head systems different from luminaire head systems, such as those described above, to adjust the FOV or the sensing and/or emission direction of each of the functional heads, depending on the site to be monitored, sensed, or targeted. According to a preferred embodiment, at least two luminaire head systems comprise different types of light sources and/or optical elements. In an example, a first luminaire head system may comprise a first light source having at least one LED of a first color, and a second luminaire head system may comprise a second light source having at least one LED of a second color different from said first color. In another example, a first luminaire head system may comprise a first light source associated with at least one first optical element, such as a collimating element, and a second luminaire head system may comprise a second light source associated with at least one second optical element, such as an asymmetrical lens.

Thus, for each of the first and second luminaire head systems, the light module may be rotated with respect to the gear module to adjust on site the lighting characteristics of the luminaire head. This also applies to functional head systems different from luminaire head systems, such as those described above.

The above-mentioned preferred embodiments are particularly advantageous for functional systems installed in large outdoor areas, especially large urban areas such as public places, squares, parks, boulevards, and the like. For such large areas, buildings may be present in the surroundings. Thus, it is advantageous in such cases to be able to orient the direction of each functional head system on the pole independently from each other, depending on the site to be illuminated, sensed, or monitored (e.g., a ground surface, such as a road or a pedestrian surface, or a surface of a building) and/or the specific application (e.g., a light show, a focused illumination, different illumination patterns, CCTV, a particular space to be monitored, sensed, or targeted, such as a bank, a cash withdrawal machine (ATM), a jewelry, etc.).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

This and other aspects of the present invention will now be described in more detail, with reference to the appended drawings showing a currently preferred embodiment of the invention. Like numbers refer to like features throughout the drawings.

Figures 1A and IB respectively illustrate a perspective view and an exploded view of a luminaire head system in a mounted state according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figures 2A and 2B respectively illustrate a perspective view of a luminaire head and a connector base of a luminaire head system in an unmounted state and a perspective view of the connector base alone according to the exemplary embodiment of Figures 1A and IB; Figures 2C and 2D illustrate two detailed views of a connection interface between the luminaire head and the connector base according to the exemplary embodiment of Figures 1A and IB;

Figures 3A and 3B respectively illustrate a detailed view of a connector and a perspective view of a connector base receiving an electrical wire according to the exemplary embodiment of Figures 1A and IB;

Figures 4A and 4B respectively illustrate a perspective view of the inside of a luminaire head system according to two different exemplary embodiments;

Figures 5A and 5B respectively illustrate a perspective view of a luminaire head system in a mounted state and in an unmounted state according to another exemplary embodiment;

Figures 6A-6C respectively illustrate a front view and a side view of a luminaire head system in a mounted state according to three different exemplary embodiments, and Figure 6D illustrates a perspective view of a luminaire head system comprising a light shield according to an exemplary embodiment;

Figures 7A and 7B illustrate a method for securing and orienting a luminaire head system according to the embodiments of Figures 1 A-4B to a wall;

Figures 8A and 8B illustrate a method for securing and orienting a luminaire head system according to the embodiments of Figures 5A and 5B to a pole;

Figures 9A and 9B illustrate a method for orienting at least a portion of a functional head system with respect to another portion of the functional head system;

Figures 10A and 10B respectively illustrate perspective views of two luminaire head systems comprising different types of light sources;

Figures 11A and 11B respectively illustrate a perspective view of a luminaire head system comprising an external module and a perspective view of three luminaire poles, each comprising a plurality of luminaire head systems secured thereto; and

Figures 12A and 12B respectively illustrate a cross-sectional view and an enlarged cross-sectional view of an interface between a light module and a gear module of a luminaire head system.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Figures 1A and IB respectively illustrate a perspective view and an exploded view of a luminaire head system in a mounted state according to an exemplary embodiment.

As illustrated in Figures 1A and IB, there is provided a luminaire head system 10 for a luminaire, preferably an outdoor luminaire. The luminaire head system 10 comprises a connector base 11 configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall (not shown) or a pole (not shown; see pole P in Figures 5A and 5B), and a luminaire head 12 configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base 11. It is noted that the connector base 11 of the embodiment of Figures 1A and IB is particularly adapted to be secured to a wall, such as a vertical wall or a ceiling, although not limited thereto. Indeed, said connector base 11 may also be adapted to be secured to a pole having a flat surface, such as a pole having a rectangular or a square cross-section, or the like. The connector base 11 may be secured to the support, preferably to the wall, using screws, for example three screws (see corresponding holes provided to the connector base 11 in Figure 2B).

Although not explicitly illustrated in Figures 1A and IB, the luminaire head 12 is configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base 11 by means of a biunique fitting mechanism defining a key profile.

In the context of the invention, the term “biunique fitting mechanism” should be construed as a mechanism enabling a one-to-one correspondence of shapes, dimensions, and orientation of a portion of the luminaire head 12 and the connector base 11 at a connection interface between the luminaire head 12 and the connector base 11. The wording “mechanism” implies a mechanical connection between the portion of the luminaire head 12 and the connector base 11 at said interface. By “one- to-one correspondence”, it is meant that to each shape, dimensions, and orientation of the portion of the luminaire head 12 at said connection interface corresponds a shape and dimensions of the connector base 11, and vice versa. In other words, shapes, dimensions, and orientation of the connector base 11 are configured to match shapes, dimensions, and orientation of the portion of the luminaire head 12 at said connection interface. In addition, any variations in the shape and dimensions of the portion of the luminaire head 12 at said connection interface imply corresponding variations in the shape and dimensions of the connector base 11, and vice versa. This is implied by the wording “biunique”, which means that shapes, dimensions, and orientation of the portion of the luminaire head 12 and the connector base 11 at said connection interface are unique to one another. This is also implied by the wording “fitting”, which is a synonym of “matching”, and which means that the shapes, dimensions, and orientation of the portion of the luminaire head 12 at said connection interface and the connector base 11 are complementary.

Further, in the context of the invention, the term “key profile” should be construed in accordance with the construction of the wording “biunique fitting mechanism”, as a profile having a shape of a key. By “key”, it is meant that two elements presenting such a profile have complementary shapes and dimensions so as to form together a biunique fitting mechanism, as defined above. In other words, the portion of the luminaire head 12 at said connection interface and the connector base 11 presenting such a key profile have complementary shapes and dimensions so as to form together the biunique fitting mechanism. The above-mentioned biunique fitting mechanism and key profile will be further defined and described in the following, in relation with Figures 2 A and 2B, 3 A, and 5B.

As illustrated in Figures 1 A and IB, the luminaire head 12 may comprise a light module 121 provided with a light source 1211, and a gear module 122 provided with a light source driving means (not shown; see light source driving means 1221 in Figure 4B). The luminaire head 12 may comprise a front portion wherein the light module 121 is arranged and a rear portion wherein the gear module 122 is arranged. The light module 121 may comprise a light housing 1212 and a light cover 1213 covering the light source 1211 and configured to be releasably attached to the light housing 1212. The light cover 1213 may comprise a transparent or translucent portion. Optionally, a color filter may be arranged between the light source 1121 and the transparent or translucent portion of the light cover 1213. For example, the color filter may be a sheet arranged above the transparent or translucent portion. The color filter is configured to absorb a portion of the light emitted by the light source in specific wavelength ranges so as to change the color of the light emitted by the luminaire head 12. Preferably, the color filter is accessible by opening the luminaire head 12, in particular the light module 121. In that way, the color filter can be easily changed, e.g. when it is desirable to change the color of the emitted light for a special occasion or festivity.

The light source 1211 may comprise a light support 1214 (see Figure IB), such as a PCB, on which a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) is mounted. The LEDs may be arranged in an array of multiple columns and rows. The light source 1211 may comprise RGB and/or RGBW and/or RGB A LEDs and associated control circuitry for controlling the color and/or the color temperature emitted by the light source 1211. The number (e.g., 6, 12, 16, 24, 28, 36, 52, etc.) and/or the arrangement (e.g. square(s), (concentric) circle(s), etc.) of the LEDs on the light support 1214 may vary. Thus, the overall light color and/or light pattern and/or light intensity of the luminaire head 12 may vary.

The gear module 122 may comprise a gear support (not shown; see gear support 1224 in Figure 4B and Figures 12A and 12B) on which the light source driving means 1221 may be arranged, and a gear housing 1222. Although not explicitly illustrated in Figures 1A and IB, the gear module 122 may comprise any one or more of the following: a light source dimming means, surge protection circuitry, electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuitry, connecting means, a fuse, a metering circuitry, a driving and/or control circuitry for any electrical components of the luminaire head 12.

As illustrated in Figures 1 A and IB, the luminaire head 12 may comprise a housing wherein the light source 1211, the electrical/electronic components, and optionally a heat sink and a flux exhauster are arranged. The above-mentioned transparent or translucent portion facing the light source 1211 may be part of the housing. Preferably, the light cover 1213 and the housing form a sealed housing. In the embodiment of Figures 1A and IB, the housing comprises three portions, namely the light cover 1213, the light housing 1212, and the gear housing 1222.

In the embodiment of Figures 1A and IB, the light cover 1213 has a substantially cylindrical shape, the transparent or translucent portion has a substantially circular shape, and the light support 1214 on which the plurality of LEDs is mounted has a substantially circular shape. Further, the light housing 1212 and the gear housing 1222 have a substantially tronconical shape. Thus, the overall shape of the housing of the luminaire head 12 is a truncated cone. In other embodiments, the overall shape of said housing may correspond to a cylinder.

In some embodiments, the luminaire head 12 can have an overall round shape, i.e., any one or more of the components of the luminaire head 12 may have a round shape, as in the embodiment of Figures 1A and IB. In other embodiments, the luminaire head may have an overall polygonal shape, such as a square or rectangular shape. Thus, any one or more of the components of the luminaire head may have a polygonal shape. Also mixed shapes are possible. In the embodiment of Figures 1A and IB, the overall shape of the luminaire head 12 corresponds to a spotlight. The spotlight may correspond to an outdoor spotlight, with suitable ingress protection (IP) rating such as IP66 or IP67, or an indoor spotlight, with suitable IP rating such as IP22-IP24 or more.

Although not explicitly illustrated in Figures 1A and IB, the luminaire head system 10 is configured to enable at least one rotational movement of at least a portion of the luminaire head 12 when the luminaire head 12 is mounted on the connector base 11. Said at least one rotational movement may comprise a first rotational movement of the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around a first rotation axis (not shown; see rotation axis Al in Figures 7B, 8A, and 8B) perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base 11, preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°, as best illustrated in Figures 7B, 8A, and 8B. The connector base 11 may comprise at least two first screws SCI configured to block said first rotational movement, as illustrated in Figure IB.

Alternatively or in addition, said at least one rotational movement may comprise a second rotational movement of the luminaire head 12 around a second rotation axis (not shown; see rotation axis A2 in Figures 2C and 2D) parallel to a plane defined by the connector base 11, preferably over substantially 180°, as best illustrated in Figures 2C and 2D. Alternatively or in addition, said at least one rotational movement may comprise a third rotational movement of the light module 121 with respect to the gear module 122, preferably over substantially 180°, as best illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B.

As illustrated in Figures 1 A and IB, the luminaire head 12 may comprise a connector 123 configured to contact the connector base 11. The connector base 11 and the connector 123 may have a substantially circular outer shape, and an outer diameter of the connector base 11 may be substantially equal to an outer diameter of the connector 123. The connector 123 may comprise a protruding portion 1231 on a side thereof opposite the connector base 11, and the luminaire head 12 may further comprise a rotary portion 124 configured to rotate with respect to the protruding portion 1231.

As illustrated in Figure IB, the luminaire head 12 may comprise a frame 125 arranged between the light module 121 and the gear module 122. The frame 125 may be connected to the light module 121 and may be configured to enable a rotational movement of the light module 121 with respect to the gear module 122, preferably over substantially 180°, referred to as “third rotational movement” above and further described in connection with Figures 4A and 4B. The luminaire head 12 may comprise at least two third screws SC3 configured to block said third rotational movement. The frame 125 may comprise at least two legs 1252 configured to be connected to said at least two third screws SC3, and said at least two third screws SC3 may be configured to secure the frame 125 inside the luminaire head 12. The frame 125 may be configured to be secured to the rear portion of the luminaire head 12, as illustrated in Figure IB.

As illustrated in Figure IB, the luminaire head 12 may further comprise an annular ring 126 configured to be connected to the light module 121 and to contact the frame 125. The frame 125 may be configured to be arranged between said annular ring 126 and the light module 121. The frame 125 may comprise a curved groove 1251, preferably a semi-circular groove 1251, and the light module 121 may comprise a pin 1215 extending in said curved groove 1251 and configured to move along said curved groove 1251 during said third rotational movement.

It should be clear to the skilled person that the function, configuration, and arrangement of the features described above for the luminaire head system 10 of Figures 1A and IB also apply to functional head systems different from said luminaire head system 10. In said other functional head systems, the functional head may comprise at least one of an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, etc. Figures 2A and 2B respectively illustrate a perspective view of a luminaire head and a connector base of a luminaire head system in an unmounted state and a perspective view of the connector base alone according to the exemplary embodiment of Figures 1A and IB.

As illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B, the luminaire head system 10 comprises a connector base 11 configured to be secured to a support, preferably a wall (not shown), such as a vertical wall or a ceiling, and a luminaire head 12 configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base 11, as described above in connection with Figures 1 A and IB. The luminaire head 12 may comprise a light module 121 provided with a light source 1211, and a gear module 122 provided with a light source driving means (not shown; see light source driving means 1221 in Figure 4B). The light module 121 may comprise a light housing 1212 and a light cover 1213 covering the light source 1211 and configured to be releasably attached to the light housing 1212. The gear module 122 may comprise a gear support (not shown; see gear support 1224 in Figure 4B and Figures 12A and 12B) on which the light source driving means 1221 may be arranged, and a gear housing 1222.

As illustrated in Figures 2 A and 2B, the luminaire head 12 is configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base 11 by means of a biunique fitting mechanism defining a key profile, as defined above in connection with Figures 1A and IB. The connector base 11 may comprise a cavity C, and the luminaire head 12 may comprise a connector 123 configured to contact the connector base 11. The connector 123 may comprise an insert element I having a shape configured to fit a shape of the cavity C. The connector base 11 may comprise a recessed flange 111 and a surrounding wall 112 defining the cavity C. The insert element I may be configured to be accommodated within said recessed flange 111, with dimensions of the insert element I matching dimensions of the recessed flange 111. Said cavity C and said insert element I may define together said biunique fitting mechanism, and said shape of the cavity C and said shape of the insert element I may define together said key profile. The key profile may have at most one symmetry axis A, as illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B.

In the embodiment of Figure 2A, a shape of the insert element I comprises three protrusions that are arranged symmetrically with respect to the symmetry axis A of the insert element I. It should be clear to the skilled person that other shapes of the insert element I may be envisaged. As illustrated in Figure 2A, the insert element I may be provided as a separate element which can be releasably fixed to the luminaire head 12, in particular to the connector 123, e.g. via two screws. Thus, the insert element I may be easily replaced, and another insert element I having the same or a different shape may be fixed to the luminaire head 12. In addition, the insert element I may be unfastened from the luminaire head 12, flipped by 180° in order to change the orientation of the key profile, and fixed again to the luminaire head 12. It should be clear to the skilled person that, in other embodiments, such as the embodiments of Figures 5 A and 5B, the insert element I may be integrally formed with the luminaire head 12, in particular with the connector 123, e.g. by casting the connector 123.

Further, in the embodiment of Figure 2B, a shape of the recessed flange 111 comprises three corresponding recesses that are arranged symmetrically with respect to the symmetry axis A of the recessed flange 111. It should be clear to the skilled person that other shapes of the recesses may be envisaged, provided that the shapes and dimensions of said recesses match the shapes and dimensions of said protrusions according to a one-to-one correspondence.

As illustrated in Figure 2 A, the connector base 11 and the connector 123 may have a substantially circular outer shape, and an outer diameter of the connector base 11 may be substantially equal to an outer diameter of the connector 123. The connector 123 may comprise a protruding portion 1231 on a side thereof opposite the connector base 11, and the luminaire head 12 may further comprise a rotary portion 124 configured to rotate with respect to the protruding portion 1231.

As illustrated in Figure 2B, the connector base 11 may comprise a through-hole H and/or a peripheral recess R for receiving an electrical wire (not shown; see electrical wire W in Figure 3B) extending between the support and the luminaire head 12. More details of the configuration and arrangement of the electrical wire within the connector base 11 are illustrated in Figure 3B.

Although not explicitly illustrated in Figures 2 A and 2B, the luminaire head system 10 is configured to enable at least one rotational movement of at least a portion of the luminaire head 12 when the luminaire head 12 is mounted on the connector base 11. Said at least one rotational movement may comprise a first rotational movement of the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around a first rotation axis Al perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base 11 , preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°.

Due to the respective shapes and dimensions of the insert element I and the cavity C, in particular of the recessed flange 111, described above, the luminaire head 12 may be mounted on the connector base 11 by inserting the insert element I into the cavity C in a relative position and orientation in accordance with the key profile of the above-defined biunique fitting mechanism. Once mounted on the connector base 11, the luminaire head 12 may be rotated with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al in order to adjust on site the light distribution of the luminaire head 12 according to characteristics of an environment to be lighted, depending on the site to be illuminated and/or the specific application. This rotation is enabled by the above -described biunique fitting mechanism. The rotation of the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al may be performed preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°, even more preferably over substantially 360°. The maximum rotation angle of the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al may depend on the arrangement and/or dimensions of the above-mentioned electrical wire W, and/or the number of electrical wires W extending between the support and the luminaire head 12. Indeed, a torsion is exerted on said electrical wire(s) W during a rotation of the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al. Thus, a maximal torsion that the electrical wire(s) W can undergo may limit the maximal rotation angle possible of the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al.

After rotating the luminaire head 12 over 360° with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al, the luminaire head 12 may be unmounted from the connector base 11, as the orientation of the insert element I matches the orientation of the recessed flange 111 at that specific position. In order to only provide a single position and orientation for mounting and unmounting the luminaire head 12 on/from the connector base 11, the key profile may have at most one symmetry axis A, as illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B. In some embodiments, the key profile may have no symmetry axis. For example, one protrusion of the insert element I may have a dimension and/or an orientation different from the other protrusions. It should be clear to the skilled person that, in other embodiments, the key profile may have more than one symmetry axis, for example two symmetry axes. Thus, in said embodiments, the luminaire head 12 may be mounted/unmounted on/from the connector base 11 in two different relative positions and orientations in accordance with the key profile.

As illustrated in Figure 2B, the connector base 11 may comprise at least two first screws SCI configured to block said first rotational movement. Thus, after rotating the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 by a given angle around a first rotation axis Al perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base 11, the luminaire head 12 may be fixed to the connector base 11 at a given position by said at least two first screws SCI. Said at least two first screws SCI only need to block said first rotational movement, not to firmly secure the luminaire head 12 to the connector base 11. Thus, said at least two first screws SCI need not be robust. The at least two first screws may extend through the connector base 11 via a peripheral surface of the connector base 11 , and may contact the luminaire head 12, in particular the connector 123, in order to block said first rotational movement. It should be clear to the skilled person that in other embodiments only one first screw SCI may be provided to the connector base 11, and thus that only one first screw SCI may suffice to block said first rotational movement.

Figures 2C and 2D illustrate two detailed views of a connection interface between the luminaire head and the connector base according to the exemplary embodiment of Figures 1A and IB.

As illustrated in Figures 2C and 2D, the luminaire head 12 may comprise a connector 123 configured to contact the connector base 11. The connector 123 may comprise a protruding portion 1231 on a side thereof opposite the connector base 11, and the luminaire head 12 may further comprise a rotary portion 124 configured to rotate with respect to the protruding portion 1231.

Although not explicitly illustrated in Figures 2C and 2D, the luminaire head system 10 is configured to enable at least one rotational movement of at least a portion of the luminaire head 12 when the luminaire head 12 is mounted on the connector base 11. Said at least one rotational movement may comprise a second rotational movement of the luminaire head 12 around a second rotation axis A2 (see Figures 2C and 2D) parallel to a plane defined by the connector base 11, preferably over substantially 180°. As illustrated in Figure 2D, the connector base 11 has a substantially cylindrical shape, having a first surface substantially circular, a second surface substantially circular opposite said first surface, and a peripheral surface substantially annular between said first and second surfaces. Thus, each of said first and second surfaces defines a plane, and the second rotation axis A2 is defined as an axis parallel to said plane.

Thus, at least a portion of the luminaire head 12, in particular the light module 121 and the gear module 122, may be rotated with respect to the connector 123 and the connector base 11 in order to adjust on site the light distribution of the luminaire head 12 according to characteristics of an environment to be lighted, depending on the site to be illuminated and/or the specific application. This rotation is enabled by the above-described protruding portion 1231 and rotary portion 124.

As illustrated in Figures 2C and 2D, the luminaire head 12 may comprise at least two second screws SC2 configured to block said second rotational movement. Said at least two second screws SC2 may extend through the protruding portion 1231 and the rotary portion 124. A quarter-turn screw (not shown; see quarter-turn screw Q in at least Figures 1A, IB, and 2A) may cover said at least two second screws SC2, and may be removed in order to access said two second screws SC2 and further access an electrical wire (see below). The at least two second screws SC2 may be unfastened so as to rotate at least a portion of the luminaire head 12 by a given angle, and then fastened again in order to block said second rotational movement. As illustrated in Figure 2C, the protruding portion 1231 may be provided with a first channel CHI configured to receive an electrical wire (not shown; see electrical wire W in Figure 3B) extending from the connector base 11, and the rotary portion 124 may be provided with a second channel CH2 configured to guide said wire to the inside of the luminaire head 12. As illustrated in Figure 2D, the connector base 11 may comprise a peripheral recess R for receiving said electrical wire.

Figures 3A and 3B respectively illustrate a detailed view of a connector and a perspective view of a connector base receiving an electrical wire according to the exemplary embodiment of Figures 1A and IB. The connector base 11 and the connector 123 illustrated in Figures 3 A and 3B may correspond to the connector base 11 and the connector 123 illustrated in Figures 2A and 2B.

As illustrated in Figures 3A and 3B, the connector base 11 may comprise a cavity C (Figure 3B), and the luminaire head 12 may comprise a connector 123 (Figure 3 A) configured to contact the connector base 11. The connector 123 may comprise an insert element I (Figure 3 A) having a shape configured to fit a shape of the cavity C (Figure 3B). The insert element I may be configured to be accommodated within the recessed flange 111 (Figure 3B), with dimensions of the insert element I matching dimensions of the recessed flange 111. As illustrated in Figure 3 A, the insert element I may be fixed to the luminaire head, in particular to the connector 123, via two screws. Thus, the insert element I may be easily replaced, and another insert element I having the same or a different shape may be fixed to the luminaire head. Said cavity C and said insert element I may define together said biunique fitting mechanism, and said shape of the cavity C and said shape of the insert element I may define together said key profile. The key profile may have at most one symmetry axis A, as illustrated in Figure 3A.

As illustrated in Figure 3B, the connector base 11 may comprise a through-hole H (both left-hand and right-hand sides of Figure 3B) and/or a peripheral recess R (right-hand side of Figure 3B) for receiving an electrical wire W extending between the support and the luminaire head 12. As illustrated on the left-hand side of Figure 3B, as an example an electrical wire W extends through the connector base 11 via the through-hole H. In the former example, the electrical wire W coming from a rear side of the connector base 11 enters the connector base 11 via the through-hole H and exit the connector base 11 towards the luminaire head 12 via a front side of the connector base 11. Alternatively, as illustrated on the right-hand side of Figure 3B, as another example an electrical wire W extends via the peripheral recess R provided to the connector base 11 , but does not extend through the connector base 11 although a through-hole H is provided to the connector base 11. In the latter example, an element 113 of the connector base 11 covering the peripheral recess R may be removed to have access to the peripheral recess R, so that an electrical wire W coming from a lateral side of the connector base 11 can enter the connector base 11 via the peripheral recess R and exit the connector base 11 towards the luminaire head 12 via a front side of the connector base 11.

Figures 4A and 4B respectively illustrate a perspective view of the inside of a luminaire head system according to two different exemplary embodiments.

As illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, the luminaire head 12 may comprise a frame 125 arranged between the light module 121 and the gear module 122. The frame 125 may be connected to the light module 121 and may be configured to enable a third rotational movement of the light module 121 with respect to the gear module 122, preferably over substantially 180°. Thus, the light module 121 may be rotated with respect to the gear module 122 in order to adjust on site the light distribution of the luminaire head 12 according to characteristics of an environment to be lighted, depending on the site to be illuminated and/or the specific application. This rotation is enabled by the above-mentioned frame 125, which is described in more details in the following.

As illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, the luminaire head 12 may comprise at least two third screws SC3 configured to block said third rotational movement. The frame 125 may comprise at least two legs 1252 configured to be connected to said at least two third screws SC3, and said at least two third screws SC3 may be configured to secure the frame 125 inside the luminaire head 12. The frame 125 may be configured to be secured to the rear portion of the luminaire head 12. The frame 125 may comprise a curved groove 1251, preferably a semi-circular groove 1251, and the light module 121 may comprise a pin 1215 extending in said curved groove 1251 and configured to move along said curved groove 1251 during said third rotational movement.

In the embodiment of Figure 4A, components inside the gear module 122 have been omitted for the sake of clarity. However, it should be clear to the skilled person that the same components as those of Figures 1 A and IB may be arranged in the gear module 122 of Figure 4A. In Figure 4A, the gear housing 1222 has been illustrated in transparency for the sake of clarity, the contours thereof being drawn in dashed lines. The luminaire head 12 comprises two third screws SC3 configured to block said third rotational movement. Accordingly, the frame 125 comprises two legs 1252 configured to be connected to said two third screws SC3, and said two third screws SC3 may be configured to secure the frame 125 inside the luminaire head 12, to the rear portion of the luminaire head 12, in particular to a rear portion of the gear housing 1222. In the embodiment of Figure 4B, components inside the gear module 122 have not been omitted, but the gear housing 1222 has not been drawn for the sake of clarity. However, it should be clear to the skilled person that the same gear housing 1222 as that of Figure 4A may be used in the embodiment of Figure 4B. The luminaire head 12 comprises three third screws SC3 configured to block said third rotational movement. Accordingly, the frame 125 comprises three legs 1252 configured to be connected to said three third screws SC3, and said three third screws SC3 may be configured to secure the frame 125 inside the luminaire head 12, to the rear portion of the luminaire head 12, in particular to a rear portion of the gear housing 1222.

The luminaire head 12 may be available in different sizes, whilst the general shape my remain the same or similar. The embodiment of Figure 4A corresponds to a first size of the luminaire head 12, wherein two third screws SC3 and two corresponding legs 1252 of the frame 125 are illustrated. The embodiment of Figure 4B corresponds to a second size of the luminaire head 12, wherein three third screws SC3 and three corresponding legs 1252 of the frame 125 are illustrated. The second size of the luminaire head 12 may correspond to a size larger than said first size. Exemplary dimensions of the luminaire head 12 will be provided in the following in connection with Figures 6A-6C.

As illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, the luminaire head 12 may further comprise an annular ring 126 configured to be connected to the light module 121 and to contact the frame 125. The frame 125 may be configured to be arranged between said annular ring 126 and the light module 121. In order to enable said third rotational movement, the at least two third screws SC3 may be unfastened, thereby releasing the pressure exerted by the light module 121 and the annular ring 126 on the frame 125. Indeed, when said at least two third screws SC3 are fastened to the rear portion of the luminaire head 12, in particular to the rear portion of the gear housing 1222, the frame 125 is fastened between a rear side of the light module, for example a rear side of a light support 1214 such as a PCB, and the annular ring 126. Upon release of said pressure, a gap is created between the frame 125 and the light module 121, in particular the light support 1214. Another gap is created between the frame 125 and the annular ring 126. Hence, the light module 121 is free to rotate with respect to the gear module 122, and in particular with respect to the frame 125. The pin 1215 of the light module 121, which extends in the semi-circular groove 1251 of the frame 125, moves along said groove 1251 during said third rotational movement.

As illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, the third rotational movement of the light module 121 with respect to the gear module 122 may be performed over substantially 180° thanks to the semi-circular groove 1251. In this way, the light source 1211, in particular the plurality of LEDs arranged on the light support 1214, may be oriented over substantially 180° in order to adjust on site the light distribution of the luminaire head 12 according to characteristics of an environment to be lighted, depending on the site to be illuminated and/or the specific application.

As illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, the luminaire head 12 may comprise a connector 123 comprising a protruding portion 1231 on a side thereof opposite the connector base 11, and a rotary portion 124 configured to rotate with respect to the protruding portion 1231. The protruding portion 1231 may be provided with a first channel (not shown; see first channel CHI in Figure 2C) configured to receive an electrical wire (not shown; see electrical wire W in Figure 3B) extending from the connector base 11, and the rotary portion 124 may be provided with a second channel CH2 configured to guide said wire to the inside of the luminaire head 12. Two second channels CH2 are illustrated in Figures 4A and 4B, each for receiving an electrical wire W. Thus, two corresponding first channels CHI may be provided to the protruding portion 1231, each for receiving one of said two electrical wires W. Alternatively, the protruding portion 1231 may be provided with a single, larger, first channel CHI configured to receive said two electrical wires W.

Figures 5A and 5B respectively illustrate a perspective view of a luminaire head system in a mounted state and in an unmounted state according to another exemplary embodiment.

As illustrated in Figures 5 A and 5B, there is provided a luminaire head system 10 for a luminaire, preferably an outdoor luminaire. The luminaire head system 10 comprises a connector base 11 configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall (not shown) or a pole P, and a luminaire head 12 configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base 11. It is noted that the connector base 11 of the embodiment of Figures 5A and 5B is particularly adapted to be secured to a pole P, such as a pole having a curved cross section, e.g. a cylindrical cross-section or the like, although not limited thereto. Indeed, said connector base 11 may also be adapted to be secured to a wall, such as a vertical wall or a ceiling, having a curved surface. The connector base 11 may be secured to the support, preferably to the pole P, using screws, for example two screws (Figures 5A and 5B).

As illustrated in Figures 5 A and 5B, the luminaire head 12 may comprise a light module 121 provided with a light source 1211, and a gear module 122 provided with a light source driving means (not shown; see light source driving means 1221 in Figure 4B). The luminaire head 12 may comprise a front portion wherein the light module 121 is arranged and a rear portion wherein the gear module 122 is arranged. The light module 121 may comprise a light housing 1212 and a light cover 1213 covering the light source 1211 and configured to be releasably attached to the light housing 1212. The light source 1211 may comprise a light support (not shown; see light support 1214 in Figure IB), such as a PCB, on which a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) is mounted. The LEDs may be arranged in an array of multiple columns and rows. The light source 1211 may comprise RGB and/or RGBW and/or RGBA LEDs and associated control circuitry for controlling the color and/or the color temperature emitted by the light source 1211.

The gear module 122 may comprise a gear support (not shown; see gear support 1224 in Figure 4B and Figures 12A and 12B) on which the light source driving means 1221 may be arranged, and a gear housing 1222. Although not explicitly illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B, the gear module 122 may comprise any one or more of the following: a light source dimming means, surge protection circuitry, electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection circuitry, connecting means, a fuse, a metering circuitry, a driving and/or control circuitry for any electrical components of the luminaire head 12.

In other words, the light module 121 and the gear module 122 illustrated in the embodiment of Figures 5 A and 5B may correspond to the light module 121 and the gear module 122 illustrated in the embodiment of Figures 1A and IB.

As illustrated in Figure 5B, the luminaire head 12 is configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base 11 by means of a biunique fitting mechanism defining a key profile. The terms “biunique fitting mechanism” and “key profile” should have the same meaning as in the embodiment of Figures 1A and IB. The connector base 11 may comprise a cavity C, and the luminaire head 12 may comprise a connector 123 configured to contact the connector base 11. The connector 123 may comprise an insert element I having a shape configured to fit a shape of the cavity C. The connector base 11 may comprise a recessed flange 111 and a surrounding wall 112 defining the cavity C. The insert element I may be configured to be accommodated within said recessed flange 111, with dimensions of the insert element I matching dimensions of the recessed flange 111. Said cavity C and said insert element I may define together said biunique fitting mechanism, and said shape of the cavity C and said shape of the insert element I may define together said key profile. The key profile may have at most one symmetry axis A, as illustrated in Figure 5B. Compared to the embodiment of Figures 2A and 2B, said shape of the cavity C and said shape of the insert element I may be the same, or may be different as illustrated in Figure 5B. In other words, Figure 5B illustrates a key profile which is different from the key profile illustrated in Figures 2 A and 2B. However, it should be clear to the skilled person that the same key profile may be defined in the embodiment of Figures 5A and 5B and in the embodiment of Figures 2 A and 2B.

In the embodiment of Figure 5B, a shape of the insert element I comprises three protrusions that are arranged symmetrically with respect to the symmetry axis A of the insert element I. It should be clear to the skilled person that other shapes of the insert element I may be envisaged. As explained above, the shape and dimensions of said three protrusions are different from the shape and dimensions of the three protrusions of the insert element I according to the embodiment of Figures 2 A and 2B. As illustrated in Figure 5 A, the insert element I may be integrally formed with the luminaire head 12, in particular with the connector 123, e.g. by casting the connector 123. It should be clear to the skilled person that, in other embodiments, such as the embodiments of Figures 2A and 2B, the insert element I may be provided as a separate element which can be releasably fixed to the luminaire head 12, in particular to the connector 123, e.g. via two screws.

Further, in the embodiment of Figure 5B, a shape of the recessed flange 111 comprises three corresponding recesses that are arranged symmetrically with respect to the symmetry axis A of the recessed flange 111. It should be clear to the skilled person that other shapes of the recesses may be envisaged, provided that the shapes and dimensions of said recesses match the shapes and dimensions of said protrusions according to a one-to-one correspondence. As explained above, the shape and dimensions of said three recesses are different from the shape and dimensions of the three recesses of the recessed flange 111 according to the embodiment of Figures 2 A and 2B.

As illustrated in Figures 5 A and 5B, the luminaire head 12 may comprise a connector 123 configured to contact the connector base 11. The connector base 11 and the connector 123 may have a substantially circular outer shape, at least at a connection interface between the connector base 11 and the connector 123, and an outer diameter of the connector base 11 may be substantially equal to an outer diameter of the connector 123, at least at said connection interface. Around said connection interface, a shape of the connector base 11 may be elongated, as illustrated in Figures 5 A and 5B. The connector base 11 may receive two screws which extend through the elongated portion of the connector base 11 in order to secure the connector base 11 to the pole P. Further, the connector 123 may comprise a protruding portion 1231 on a side thereof opposite the connector base 11, and the luminaire head 12 may further comprise a rotary portion 124 configured to rotate with respect to the protruding portion 1231.

Although not explicitly illustrated in Figures 5 A and 5B, the luminaire head system 10 is configured to enable at least one rotational movement of at least a portion of the luminaire head 12 when the luminaire head 12 is mounted on the connector base 11. Said at least one rotational movement may comprise a first rotational movement of the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around a first rotation axis Al perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base 11 , preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°, as best illustrated in Figures 8A and 8B. The connector base 11 may comprise at least two first screws SCI configured to block said first rotational movement, as illustrated in Figure 5 A. More details are found in the description of Figures 2A-2B.

Alternatively or in addition, said at least one rotational movement may comprise a second rotational movement of the luminaire head 12 around a second rotation axis (not shown; see rotation axis A2 in Figures 2C and 2D) parallel to a plane defined by the connector base 11, preferably over substantially 180°, as best illustrated in Figure 5B and described in connection with Figures 2C and 2D.

Alternatively or in addition, said at least one rotational movement may comprise a third rotational movement of the light module 121 with respect to the gear module 122, preferably over substantially 180°, as best illustrated and described in connection with Figures 4A and 4B.

Regarding said first rotational movement of the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base

11 around said first axis Al, the luminaire head 12 may be mounted on the connector base 11 by means of the biunique fitting mechanism by first inserting the luminaire head 12 into the connector base 11 in a first orientation in accordance with the key profile, then by rotating the luminaire head

12 with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al to a second orientation at an angle of substantially 180° from the first orientation. Starting from said second orientation, the luminaire head 12 may be further rotated with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al, preferably over more than 90°, which provides a total range for the rotation angle of the luminaire head 12 which is preferably more than 270°.

Figure 5B illustrates a position of the luminaire head 12 according to said second orientation, but in an unmounted state of the luminaire head 12 for the sake of clarity. In order to mount the luminaire head 12 as illustrated in Figure 5B to the connector base 11, the luminaire head 12 is first flipped by 180° to reach said first orientation in accordance with the key profile illustrated in Figure 5B, then the insert element I is inserted into the cavity C of the connector base 11 , and then the luminaire head 12 is rotated to reach said second orientation at an angle of substantially 180° from the first orientation. Subsequently, starting from said second orientation, the luminaire head 12 may be further rotated with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al to reach any desirable orientation of the luminaire head 12, preferably over more than 90°, which provides a total range for the rotation angle of the luminaire head 12 which is preferably more than 270°. As illustrated in Figure 5B, the connector base 11 may comprise a through-hole H for receiving an electrical wire (not shown; see electrical wire W in Figure 3B) extending between the pole P and the luminaire head 12.

It should be clear to the skilled person that the function, configuration, and arrangement of the features described above for the luminaire head system 10 of Figures 5 A and 5B also apply to functional head systems different from said luminaire head system 10. In said other functional head systems, the functional head may comprise at least one of an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, etc.

Figures 6A-6C respectively illustrate a front view and a side view of a luminaire head system in a mounted state according to three different exemplary embodiments.

The embodiment of Figure 6 A corresponds to the embodiment of Figures 1 A and IB, and details of the luminaire head system 10 will not be repeated in the following.

Four dimensions L1-L4 are indicated in Figure 6 A. LI corresponds to a height of the luminaire head system 10, i.e., a total height of the connector base 11 and the luminaire head 12. L2 corresponds to a width of the luminaire head system 10, which corresponds to a width of the luminaire head 12. L3 corresponds to a depth of the luminaire head system 10, i.e., a total depth of the luminaire head 12 and the connector base 11. L4 corresponds to a depth of the luminaire head 12 only, i.e., a total depth of the light module 121 and the gear module 122.

Table 1 below shows exemplary values (in mm) of the four dimensions L1-L4 of the luminaire head system 10 according to the embodiment of Figure 6 A, for three different sizes of the luminaire head system 10: a small size, also called “mini”, an intermediate size, also called “midi”, and a large size, also called “maxi”.

Table 1: dimensions L1-L4 (in mm) with respect to the embodiment of Figure 6 A. It is seen from the above Table 1 that, from “mini” size to “maxi” size, the values of dimensions LI and L2 increase whereas the values of dimensions L3 and L4 decrease. In other words, from “mini” size to “maxi” size, a total height and a total width of the luminaire head system 10 increase, whereas a total depth of the luminaire head system 10 decreases to compensate for the increase of said height and width, thereby keeping a compact luminaire head system 10.

The embodiment of Figure 6B differs from the embodiment of Figure 6A in that the light housing 1212 has a cylindrical shape provided with a plurality of grooves whereas the light housing 1212 of Figure 6 A has a tronconical flat shape, and in that a peripheral portion of the light cover 1213 is different from that of Figure 6 A. Dimensions L1-L4 have the same definition as in Figure 6 A.

Table 2 below shows exemplary values (in mm) of the four dimensions L1-L4 of the luminaire head system 10 according to the embodiment of Figure 6B, for “mini”, “midi”, and “maxi” sizes.

Table 2: dimensions L1-L4 (in mm) with respect to the embodiment of Figure 6B.

It is seen from the above Table 2 that the luminaire head system 10 of Figure 6B has slightly smaller dimensions L1-L4 than those of the luminaire head system 10 of Figure 6A, for all sizes. It is also seen from the above Table 2 that from “mini” size to “maxi” size, the values of dimensions LI and L2 increase whereas the values of dimensions L3 and L4 decrease, as in Figure 6A.

The embodiment of Figure 6C differs from the embodiment of Figure 6A in that the light housing 1212 has a curved cylindrical shape, and in that a peripheral portion of the light cover 1213 is different from that of Figure 6A. The embodiment of Figure 6C differs from the embodiment of Figure 6B only by the shape of the light housing 1212. Dimensions L1-L4 have the same definition as in Figures 6 A and 6B.

Table 3 below shows exemplary values (in mm) of the four dimensions L1-L4 of the luminaire head system 10 according to the embodiment of Figure 6C, for “mini”, “midi”, and “maxi” sizes.

Table 3: dimensions L1-L4 (in mm) with respect to the embodiment of Figure 6C.

It is seen from the above Table 3 that the luminaire head system 10 of Figure 6C has slightly smaller dimensions L1-L4 than those of the luminaire head system 10 of Figure 6A, for all sizes, and further has the same dimensions L1-L4 as those of the luminaire system 10 of Figure 6B, for all sizes. It is also seen from the above Table 3 that from “mini” size to “maxi” size, the values of dimensions LI and L2 increase whereas the values of dimensions L3 and L4 decrease, as in Figures 6A and 6B.

As mentioned above in connection with Figures 1A and IB, in the embodiments of Figures 6A-6C, the overall shape of the luminaire head 12 corresponds to a spotlight. The spotlight 12 may correspond to an outdoor spotlight 12, with suitable ingress protection (IP) rating such as IP66 or IP67, or an indoor spotlight 12, with suitable IP rating such as IP22-IP24 or more. Exemplary dimensions of said spotlight system 10 have been provided above in connection with Tables 1-3. Exemplary weights of the spotlight system 10 are provided in the following, for all sizes. Said weights do not vary significantly from one embodiment to another in Figures 6A-6C. Exemplary weights of the spotlight system 10 range from 5 kg to 5.5 kg for the “mini” size, from 7.1 kg to 7.8 kg for the “midi” size, and from 10 kg to 10.8 kg for the “maxi” size.

Figure 6D illustrates a perspective view of a luminaire head system comprising a light shield according to an exemplary embodiment. The embodiment of Figure 6D may correspond to the embodiment of Figures 1A and IB, and details of the luminaire head system 10 will not be repeated in the following, except from details of the light shield 1216 itself. The luminaire head system 10 of the embodiment of Figure 6D may also correspond to the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiment of Figure 6C described above, to which the light shield 1216 has been added, as illustrated in Figure 6D. Indeed, the luminaire head system 10 illustrated in Figure 6D comprises a light housing 1212 having a curved cylindrical shape, as the luminaire head system 10 illustrated in Figure 6C. It should be clear to the skilled person that other shapes of the light housing 1212, such as those illustrated in Figures 6 A and 6B, may be used in combination with the light shield 1216 of Figure 6D. As illustrated in Figure 6D, the light shield 1216 may have an asymmetrical shape, with a first height hl larger than a second height h2. Said first height hl may be at least two times larger than said second height h2, preferably at least three times larger, more preferably at least four times larger. In this way, the light distribution of the luminaire head system may be modified, and light beams emitted from the light source may be redirected towards a preferential direction, e.g., a ground surface, a ceiling, or vertical wall surfaces. Indeed, a portion of the light shield 1216 having said first height hl intercepts and redirects more light rays emitted from the light source than a portion of the light shield 1216 having said second height h2.

Although not illustrated in Figure 6D, the light shield 1216 may be fixed to the light housing 1212 using the same fastening means as for the light cover 1213 (see e.g. Figure 1A and Figures 6A-6C). For example, the light cover 1213 may be fixed to the light housing 1212 using at least two screws, e.g. four screws as illustrated in Figures 1A and 6A. Thus, the light shield 1216 may be fixed to the light housing 1212 using said four screws. Said four screws may be arranged at substantially 90° from one another (see Figures 1A and 6A), and the light shield 1216 may be provided with four corresponding holes (not shown) for receiving said four screws. In this way, the light shield 1216 may be fixed to the light housing 1212 in four different positions at an angle of substantially 90° from one another. Thus, due to the asymmetrical shape of the light shield 1216, light beams emitted from the light source may be redirected towards four different directions corresponding to the four positions of the light shield 1216, e.g. a ground surface, a ceiling, or vertical wall surfaces.

Common to all embodiments described above in relation to Figures 1A-6D, there is provided a method for securing a functional head system, such as the luminaire head system 10 of any one of the above embodiments, to a support, such as a wall or the pole P of the above embodiments of Figures 5 A and 5B. The method comprises securing the connector base 11 to the support, mounting the functional head 12 on the connector base 11 by means of the biunique fitting mechanism, rotating at least a portion of the functional head 12, and blocking a rotational movement of at least said portion of the functional head 12.

The step of mounting the functional head 12 on the connector base 11 by means of the biunique fitting mechanism may comprise inserting the functional head 12 into the connector base 11 in a first orientation in accordance with the key profile, and rotating the functional head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around a first rotation axis Al perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base 11 to a second orientation at an angle from the first orientation, preferably at an angle of at least 5° from the first orientation. In this way, it is ensured that the functional head 12 is correctly mounted on the connector base 11. Indeed, the above-mentioned rotation of at least 5° ensures that the second orientation of the functional head 12, in particular of the insert element I, does not correspond to the orientation of the connector base 11, in particular of the recessed flange 111, and thus that the functional head 12 may not be unmounted from the connector base 11 in said second orientation.

The step of rotating at least the portion of the functional head 12 may comprise any one or more of the following steps: rotating the functional head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around a first rotation axis Al perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base 11, preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°, as illustrated in Figures 7A-7B and 8A-8B and explained above with respect to the embodiments of Figures 2A-2B and 5A-5B, rotating the functional head 12 around a second rotation axis A2 parallel to a plane defined by the connector base 11 , preferably over substantially 180°, as explained above with respect to the embodiment of Figures 2C and 2D, and rotating a functional module 121 of the functional head 12 with respect to a gear module 122 of the functional head 12 around a third rotation axis A3 intersecting the functional module 121 and the gear module 122, preferably over substantially 180°, as explained above with respect to the embodiment of Figures 4A and 4B.

The method may further comprise, before mounting the functional head 12 on the connector base 11 by means of the biunique fitting mechanism, the step of connecting an electrical wire W extending from the support to the functional head 12, as explained above with respect to the embodiments of Figure 3A.

Figures 7A and 7B illustrate a method for securing and orienting the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiments of Figures 1 A-4B to a wall, such as a vertical wall or a ceiling.

As illustrated in Figures 7A and 7B, the luminaire head 12 may be mounted on the connector base

11 by accommodating the insert element I of the connector 123 within the recessed flange 111 of the connector base 11 according to the biunique fitting mechanism. In other words, the luminaire head

12 may be mounted on the connector base 11 when an orientation of the insert element I matches an orientation of the recessed flange 111, as illustrated in Figure 7A. Once mounted on the connector base 11, the luminaire head 12 may be rotated with respect to the connector base 11 around a first rotation axis Al perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base 11, preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°, even more preferably over substantially 360°, as illustrated in Figure 7B. The luminaire head 12 may then be fixed in a given position corresponding to a given angle with respect to the connector base 11 by means of a suitable fastening means, e.g. at least one screw, preferably at least two screws SCI. The luminaire head 12 may be unmounted from the connector base 11 by rotating it in the opposite direction by said given angle. In addition, after a rotation of 360° with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al, the luminaire head 12 may be unmounted from the connector base 11, as the orientation of the insert element I matches again the orientation of the recessed flange 111.

As already mentioned above in connection with the embodiment of Figures 2 A and 2B, the insert element I may be provided as a separate element which can be releasably fixed to the luminaire head 12, in particular to the connector 123, e.g. via two screws. Thus, the insert element I may be unfastened from the luminaire head 12, flipped by 180° in order to change the orientation of the key profile, and fixed again to the luminaire head 12, depending on the orientation of the connector base 11 when secured to the wall, on a position and orientation of the electrical wire exiting the wall and entering the connector base 11, and the desired final orientation of the luminaire head 12. Thanks to the fact that the insert element I may be flipped by 180°, a flexibility is offered to the user or installer when mounting the luminaire head 12 on the connector base 11 to achieve the desired final orientation of the luminaire head 12, without having to unfasten the connector base 11 from the wall and reorient it before securing it again to the wall. Indeed, the position and orientation of the electrical wire exiting the wall may prevent said reorientation of the connector base 11 with respect to the wall.

It should be clear to the skilled person that the above method described in connection with Figures 7 A and 7B also applies to functional head systems different from the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiment of Figures 2A and 2B. In said other functional head systems, the functional head may comprise at least one of an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, etc.

Figures 8 A and 8B illustrate a method for securing and orienting the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiments of Figures 5A and 5B to a pole P.

In embodiments wherein the luminaire head system 10 is configured to be secured to a pole P, such as in the above embodiments of Figures 5 A and 5B, the step of mounting the luminaire head 12 on the connector base 11 by means of the biunique fitting mechanism may comprise inserting the luminaire head 12 into the connector base 11 in a first orientation in accordance with the key profile, and rotating the luminaire head 12 with respect to the connector base 11 around a first rotation axis Al perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base 11 to a second orientation at an angle from the first orientation, preferably at an angle of substantially 180° from the first orientation.

As already mentioned above in connection with the embodiment of Figures 5 A and 5B, the insert element I may be integrally formed with the luminaire head 12, in particular with the connector 123, e.g. by casting the connector 123. Thus, contrary to the insert element I according to the embodiment of Figures 2A and 2B, the insert element illustrated in Figures 5A and 5B cannot be unfastened from the luminaire head 12, flipped by 180° in order to change the orientation of the key profile, and fixed again to the luminaire head 12. As a consequence, two different methods for mounting and orienting the luminaire head system 10 to the pole P are described in the following, depending on the desired final orientation of the luminaire head 12.

As illustrated in Figure 8 A, the desired final orientation of the luminaire head 12 corresponds to a backwards illumination of the luminaire head 12, e.g., towards a ground surface. Hence, the connector base 11 may be first secured to the pole P such that an orientation of the recessed flange 111 matches an orientation of the insert element I when the luminaire head 12 is oriented upwards. The luminaire head 12 may thus be mounted on the connector base 11 in said upward orientation in accordance with the key profile. The luminaire head 12 may then be rotated with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al to a downward orientation at an angle of substantially 180° from the upward orientation. Once oriented according to said downward orientation, the luminaire head 12 may be further oriented by a given angle so as to achieve the desired final orientation, and subsequently fixed with respect to the connector base 11 by means of a suitable fastening means, e.g. at least one screw, preferably at least two screws SCI. The luminaire head 12 may be unmounted from the connector base 11 by rotating it in the opposite direction by said given angle and further by substantially 180°. In addition, after a rotation of 360° with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al, the luminaire head 12 may be unmounted from the connector base 11, as the orientation of the insert element I matches again the orientation of the recessed flange 111.

As illustrated in Figure 8B, the desired final orientation of the luminaire head 12 corresponds to an upwards illumination of the luminaire head 12, e.g., towards a ceiling surface or a higher vertical surface of a building or the like, or towards the sky. Hence, the connector base 11 may be first secured to the pole P such that an orientation of the recessed flange 111 matches an orientation of the insert element I when the luminaire head 12 is oriented downwards. The luminaire head 12 may thus be mounted on the connector base 11 in said downward orientation in accordance with the key profile. The luminaire head 12 may then be rotated with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al to an upward orientation at an angle of substantially 180° from the downward orientation. Once oriented according to said upward orientation, the luminaire head 12 may be further oriented by a given angle so as to achieve the desired final orientation, and subsequently fixed with respect to the connector base 11 by means of a suitable fastening means, e.g. at least one screw, preferably at least two screws SCI. The luminaire head 12 may be unmounted from the connector base 11 by rotating it in the opposite direction by said given angle and further by substantially 180°. In addition, after a rotation of 360° with respect to the connector base 11 around said first axis Al, the luminaire head 12 may be unmounted from the connector base 11, as the orientation of the insert element I matches again the orientation of the recessed flange 111.

It should be clear to the skilled person that the above method described in connection with Figures 8 A and 8B also applies to functional head systems different from the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiment of Figures 5 A and 5B, such as those described above.

Figures 9A and 9B illustrate a method for orienting at least a portion of a functional head system with respect to another portion of the functional head system.

As illustrated in Figures 9A and 9B, the functional head system comprises a functional head 12 configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole. The functional head 12 comprises a functional module 121 and a gear module 122, such as the light module 121 and the gear module 122 described above. The functional head 12 comprises a front portion wherein the functional module 121 is arranged, and a rear portion wherein the gear module 122 is arranged. The functional module 121 is configured to rotate with respect to the gear module 122 around a rotational axis A3 intersecting the functional module 121 and the gear module 122.

As illustrated in Figures 9 A and 9B, the functional module 121 and the gear module 122 may have a rotational symmetric shape, preferably a cylindrical or tronconical shape, and the rotational axis A3 may be a symmetry axis of the functional head 12. The rotational axis A3 may be perpendicular to a plane defined by the functional module 121. The rotational axis A3 may also be perpendicular to a plane defined by the gear module 122. The functional module 121 may be configured to rotate with respect to the gear module 122 by an angle of at least 90°, preferably by an angle of substantially 180°, i.e., by an angle of substantially 90° clockwise and by an angle of substantially 90° counterclockwise with respect to a reference position of the functional module 121 corresponding to an angle of 0°. The functional head 12 may comprise a fastening means, preferably at least one screw, more preferably at least two screws SC3, configured to block said rotation of the functional module 121. Said rotation and said at least two screws SC3 may respectively correspond to the third rotational movement and the at least two third screws SC3 described above in connection with the embodiment of Figures 4A and 4B. The at least two screws SC3 may be unfastened, then the functional module 121 may be rotated with respect to the gear module 122 by a given angle, and the at least two screws SC3 may be fastened again in order to block the rotation of the functional module 121 at a desired position with respect to the gear module 122.

Although not illustrated in Figures 9 A and 9B, the functional head 12 may comprise a frame arranged between the functional module 121 and the gear module 122, said frame being connected to the functional module 121 and configured to enable said rotation of the functional module 121. Said frame may correspond to the frame 125 described above in connection with the embodiments of Figure IB and Figures 4 A and 4B.

The functional module 121 may comprise at least one of a light source, such as the light source 1211 illustrated in Figures 1A, 2 A, and 5 A, an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, a light projecting means such as a projector, a display, or a laser. The camera may correspond to a closed-circuit television (CCTV) camera. The light projecting means may be configured to project images, logos, photos, texts, and the like. The functional module 121 may comprise a light source (see 1211 in Figures 1 A, 2 A, and 5 A) having an asymmetric light distribution. For example, the light source may comprise lenses arranged over corresponding LEDs, said lenses having an asymmetric shape so as to provide the light source of the luminaire head 12 with an asymmetric light distribution. Said asymmetric lenses may correspond to free-form lenses. The lenses may be integrally formed as a lens plate covering the LEDs of the light source. In this way, by rotating the light module 121 with respect to the gear module 122 around said rotational axis A3, a light distribution of the luminaire head 12 may be adequately adjusted according to the characteristics of the environment to be lighted.

It should be clear to the skilled person that the above method described in connection with Figures 9 A and 9B also applies to functional head systems different from the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiments of Figures 2A-2B and Figures 5A-5B, such as those described above. In said functional head systems, the functional module 121 may comprise at least one of an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, etc., having an asymmetric field of view (FOV), or an asymmetric sensing and/or emitting direction. In this way, by rotating the functional module 121 with respect to the gear module 122 around said rotational axis A3, an FOV or a sensing and/or emitting direction the functional module 12 may be adequately adjusted according to the characteristics of the environment to be sensed, monitored, or targeted.

The above functional head system described in connection with Figures 9A and 9B may correspond to the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiments of Figures 1A-8B, i.e., to a functional head system comprising a connector base 11 configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole, and a functional head 12 configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base 11 by means of the above-defined biunique fitting mechanism.

It should be clear to the skilled person that the functional head system of Figures 9A and 9B may correspond to other functional head systems, e.g. to a functional head which is directly secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole, without the use of a connector base between the functional head and the support, or to a functional head system comprising a connector base configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole, and a functional head configured to be mounted on the connector base by other means than by means of said biunique fitting mechanism. For example, the functional head may be mounted to the connector base by means of at least one screw or at least one bolt and corresponding nut, like in the conventional systems.

Figures 10A and 10B respectively illustrate perspective views of two luminaire head systems comprising different types of light sources. The light source 1211 of the embodiment of Figure 10A may correspond to the light source 1211 of the embodiment of Figure 1A (“wall mount”) or Figure 5 A (“pole mount”).

As illustrated in Figure 10A, the light source 1211 may comprise a plurality of collimating elements 1217, such as anti-glare collimating elements, arranged on a support 1214 of the light module 121, such as a PCB. Each collimating element 1217 may be associated with a LED of the light source 1211. The plurality of LEDs may be arranged on the PCB 1214 following a concentric circular or a honeycomb arrangement. As illustrated in Figure 10A, the plurality of collimating elements 1217 may also be arranged on the PCB 1214 following the concentric circular or the honeycomb arrangement, each collimating element 1217 being configured to cover each LED of the light source 1211. It should be clear to the skilled person that in other embodiments, collimating elements may be provided to only a subset of the plurality of LEDs.

The embodiment of Figure 10B differs from the embodiment of Figure 10A in that the type of light module 121 is different. As illustrated in Figure 10B, the light module 121 may have an asymmetric light distribution. For example, the light source 1211 may be associated with a plurality of lenses 1218 arranged over a corresponding plurality of LEDs, said plurality of lenses 1218 having an asymmetric shape to provide the light source 1211 with an asymmetric light distribution. Said asymmetric lenses 1218 may correspond to free-form lenses. The plurality of lenses 1218 may be integrally formed as a lens plate covering the plurality of LEDs of the light source 1211. As in the embodiment of Figure 10A, the plurality of LEDs may be arranged on the PCB 1214. Contrary to the embodiment of Figure 10A, as illustrated in Figure 10B the LEDs may be arranged on the PCB 1214 following a two-dimensional array comprising a plurality of rows and columns. The plurality of lenses 1218 may also be arranged on the LEDs following the two-dimensional array, each lens 1218 being configured to cover each LED of the light source 1211. It should be clear to the skilled person that in other embodiments, lenses may be provided to only a subset of the plurality of LEDs.

As illustrated in Figures 10A and 10B, the light cover 1213 comprises a plurality of inlet apertures 1219, e.g. four apertures arranged at substantially 90° from one another. The plurality of inlet apertures 1219 may be arranged at a vicinity of the screws used for fixing the light cover 1213 to the light housing 1212 (see above description with respect to Figure 6D). To each of the plurality of inlet apertures 1219 provided to the light cover 1213 may correspond a plurality of exhaust holes, or drain holes (not shown; see exhaust holes 1219’ in Figure 11 A, which are also visible in most of Figures 1A-9B) provided to the light housing 1212, in particular to a bottom portion of the light housing 1212. Each inlet aperture 1219 may communicate with each exhaust hole 1219’ via one or more channels or grooves, such as the substantially circular peripheral channel 1219” illustrated in Figures 12A and 12B. In this way, the plurality of exhaust holes 1219’ can evacuate water or dirt entering the one or more channels, such as the substantially circular peripheral channel 1219” of Figures 12A and 12B, via the plurality of inlet apertures 1219. This means for draining or evacuating water or dirt is especially advantageous when the luminaire head system 10 is oriented upwardly, e.g. towards a ceiling, a building, or the sky, such that rain or snow contacting the light cover 1213 when falling is evacuated from the luminaire head system 10 instead of staying in contact with the light cover 1213 and forming a pool. Indeed, a shape and arrangement of the light cover 1213 and the light housing 1212 may define a recessed area, which can accumulate water if no draining or evacuating system is provided to the luminaire head system 10, thereby hindering the illumination of the luminaire head system 10. This also applies to functional head systems different from the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiments of Figures 10A and 10B, such as those described above.

Figure 11 A illustrates a perspective view of a luminaire head system comprising an external module. The luminaire head system 10 of the embodiment of Figures 11 A may correspond to the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiment of Figures 5 A and 5B. As illustrated in Figure 11 A, the luminaire head system 10 comprises an external module 1223 mounted thereon, in particular on a bottom surface of the gear housing 1222. The external module 1223 may be plugged in a receiving means of the gear housing 1222, such as a receptacle, and may be removably fixed to the gear housing 1222. The external module 1223 may comprise different functionalities, such as control functionalities and/or sensing functionalities and/or communication functionalities. Preferably, the receptacle, also called a socket, is one of a NEMA or Zhaga receptacle, and the external module is a control module configured to be plugged in such receptacle. The receptacle and the control module may be configured to be coupled through a twist-lock mechanism, e.g. as described in the above-mentioned ANSI C136.10-2017 standard or ANSI C136.41-2013 standard or Zhaga Interface Specification Standard.

With respect to control functionalities, the external module 1223 may correspond to a luminaire controller configured to send control signals to electrical/electronic components inside the gear module 122, so as to control the driving of the light module 121 and to modify the lighting characteristics of the light source 1211 (light intensity such as dimming, light color, light color temperature, lighting pattern, lighting distribution, light flashing, etc.). With respect to sensing functionalities, the external module 1223 may correspond to a sensor configured to sense an environment of the luminaire head system 10, such as an ambient light sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor, e.g. a passive infrared (PIR) sensor, a presence or occupancy sensor, a movement sensor, an air quality sensor, a smoke sensor, a microphone, etc. With respect to communication functionalities, the external module 1223 may correspond to an antenna configured to send and/or receive signals. It should be clear to the skilled person that said sensor and/or said antenna may be configured to communicate with electrical/electronic components inside the gear module 122 by sending and/or receiving signals. It should also be clear to the skilled person that said external module 1223 may be provided to the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiments of Figures 1 A and IB, or to functional head systems different from said luminaire head system 10.

Figure 11B illustrates a perspective view of three luminaire poles, each comprising a plurality of luminaire head systems secured thereto. The plurality of luminaire head systems 10 of the embodiment of Figure 11B may correspond to the luminaire head system 10 of the embodiment of Figures 5 A and 5B.

As illustrated in Figure 1 IB, each pole P comprises a plurality of luminaire head systems 10 secured thereto, one being arranged above the other along a longitudinal direction of the pole P. The righthand pole P of Figure 11B comprises a plurality of luminaire head systems 10 comprising a light housing 1212 having a shape as described in connection with Figure 6 A. The central pole P of Figure 1 IB comprises a plurality of luminaire head systems 10 comprising a light housing 1212 having a shape as described in connection with Figure 6B. The left-hand pole P of Figure 11B comprises a plurality of luminaire head systems 10 comprising a light housing 1212 having a shape as described in connection with Figure 6C.

For each of the three poles P, the luminaire heads 12 may be releasably mounted on their respective connector base 11 by means of the above-defined biunique fitting mechanism. The luminaire heads 12 may be rotated with respect to their respective connector base 11 as described in connection with Figures 8 A and 8B. Alternatively or in addition, the luminaire heads 12 may be rotated as described in connection with Figures 2C and 2D. Alternatively or in addition, the light module 121 of the luminaire heads 12 may be rotated with respect to the gear module 122 of the luminaire heads 12 as described in connection with Figures 9 A and 9B.

For each of the three poles P, different sizes of luminaire heads 12 may be secured to the pole P depending on their longitudinal position on the pole P. For example, luminaire heads 12 of the “maxi” size (see above) may be secured to a lower portion of the pole P, luminaire heads 12 of the “midi” size (see above) may be secured to an intermediate portion of the pole P, and luminaire heads 12 of the “mini” size (see above) may be secured to an upper portion of the pole P. Each luminaire head 12 may be oriented differently from the others on the same pole P, or some luminaire heads 12 may have the same or similar orientation. The orientation of the luminaire heads 12 with respect to the pole P may depend on lighting characteristics to be achieved. Thus, the light distribution of each luminaire head 12 can be adjusted on site according to characteristics of an environment to be lighted, depending on the site to be illuminated and/or the specific application. This also applies to functional head systems different from the luminaire head systems 10 of the embodiment of Figure 1 IB, such as those described above.

As illustrated in Figure 11B, for each of the three poles P, at least two luminaire head systems 10 may comprise different types of light sources 1211 and/or optical elements. In an example, a first luminaire head system 10 may comprise a first light source 1211 having a plurality of collimating elements as described in connection with Figure 10A (see element 1217), and a second luminaire head system 10 may comprise a second light source 1211 having a plurality of asymmetrical lenses as described in connection with Figure 10B (see element 1218). Thus, for each of the first and second luminaire head systems 10, the light module 121 may be rotated with respect to the gear module 122, as described in connection with Figures 9A and 9B, to adjust on site the lighting characteristics of the luminaire head 12. This also applies to functional head systems different from the luminaire head systems 10 of the embodiment of Figure 11B, such as those described above. Figures 12A and 12B respectively illustrate a cross-sectional view and an enlarged cross-sectional view of an interface between a light module and a gear module of a luminaire head system.

As illustrated in Figures 12A and 12B, a first seal SI may be present between the light module 121 and the gear module 122. In the case of light modules 121 and gear modules 122 having a substantially cylindrical or tronconical shape, such as those illustrated in Figures 12A and 12B, the first seal SI may correspond to a substantially circular peripheral seal SI between respective peripheral portions of the light module 121 and the gear module 122. The first seal SI may be arranged in a substantially circular peripheral groove 1225 of the gear module 122. A corresponding substantially circular peripheral protrusion 1215’ of the light module 121 may be configured to contact the first seal SI in said peripheral groove 1225 to ensure water and dirt tightness of the luminaire head system 10 at a junction between the light module 121 and the gear module 122. A second seal S2 may be present between inside the light module 121, between the light cover 1213 and the light housing 1212. In the case of a light module 121 having a substantially cylindrical or tronconical shape, such as the one illustrated in Figures 12A and 12B, the second seal S2 may correspond to a substantially circular peripheral seal S2 between respective peripheral portions of the light cover 1213 and the light housing 1212. Similar groove and corresponding protrusion may be provided to the light housing 1212 and the light cover 1213, respectively, to ensure water and dirt tightness of the luminaire head system 10 at a junction between the light cover 1213 and the light housing 1212.

As illustrated in Figures 12A and 12B, a substantially circular peripheral channel 1219” may link each inlet aperture (not shown; see inlet aperture 1219 in at least Figures 10A and 10B) with each exhaust hole (not shown; see exhaust hole 1219’ in at least Figure 11A). In this way, the plurality of exhaust holes 1219’ can evacuate water or dirt entering the peripheral channel 1219” via the plurality of inlet apertures 1219. The light housing 1212 may play the role of a heat sink for dissipation of heat generated by the light source 1211, via a metal plate 1214’ supporting the light support or PCB 1214. The metal plate 1214’ may be made from metal, such as aluminum. Further, the gear support 1224 may play the role of a heat sink for dissipation of heat generated by the electrical/electronic components of the gear module 122 (e.g., the light source driving means 1221). The gear support 1224 may be made from metal, such as aluminum.

Whilst the principles of the invention have been set out above in connection with specific embodiments, it is to be understood that this description is merely made by way of example and not as a limitation of the scope of protection which is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A functional head system (10) comprising: a connector base (11) configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole (P); and a functional head (12) configured to be releasably mounted on the connector base (11) by means of a biunique fitting mechanism defining a key profile; wherein the functional head system (10) is configured to enable at least one rotational movement of at least a portion of the functional head (12) when the functional head (12) is mounted on the connector base (11).

2. The functional head system of claim 1, wherein the connector base (11) comprises a cavity (C), and the functional head (12) comprises a connector (123) configured to contact the connector base (11), wherein said connector (123) comprises an insert element (I) having a shape configured to fit a shape of the cavity (C).

3. The functional head system of claim 2, wherein the connector base (11) comprises a recessed flange (111) and a surrounding wall (112) defining the cavity (C), and wherein the insert element (I) is configured to be accommodated within said recessed flange (111).

4. The functional head system of claim 2 or 3, wherein said cavity (C) and said insert element (I) define together said biunique fitting mechanism, and wherein said shape of the cavity (C) and said shape of the insert element (I) define together said key profile.

5. The functional head system of any one of the previous claims, wherein the key profile has at most one symmetry axis (A).

6. The functional head system of any one of claims 2-5, wherein the connector base (11) and the connector (123) have a substantially circular outer shape, and an outer diameter of the connector base (11) is substantially equal to an outer diameter of the connector (123).

7. The functional head system of any one of the previous claims, wherein said at least one rotational movement comprises a first rotational movement of the functional head (12) with respect to the connector base (11) around a first rotation axis (Al) perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base (11), preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°.

8. The functional head system of claim 7, wherein the connector base (11) comprises a first fastening means (SCI) configured to block said first rotational movement.

9. The functional head system of any one of the previous claims, wherein said at least one rotational movement comprises a second rotational movement of the functional head (12) around a second rotation axis (A2) parallel to a plane defined by the connector base (11), preferably over substantially 180°.

10. The functional head system of claim 9, wherein the functional head (12) comprises a second fastening means (SC2) configured to block said second rotational movement.

11. The functional head system of any one of claims 2-10, wherein the connector (123) comprises a protruding portion (1231) on a side thereof opposite the connector base (11), and wherein the functional head (12) further comprises a rotary portion (124) configured to rotate with respect to the protruding portion (1231).

12. The functional head system of claims 10 and 11, wherein said second fastening means (SC2) extends through the protruding portion (1231) and the rotary portion (124).

13. The functional head system of claim 11 or 12, wherein the protruding portion (1231) is provided with a first channel (CHI) configured to receive an electrical wire (W) extending from the connector base (11), and the rotary portion (124) is provided with a second channel (CH2) configured to guide said wire (W) to the inside of the functional head (12).

14. The functional head system of any one of the previous claims, wherein the connector base

(11) comprises a through -hole (H) and/or a peripheral recess (R) for receiving an electrical wire (W) extending between the support and the functional head (12).

15. The functional head system of any one of the previous claims, wherein the functional head

(12) comprises a functional module (121) and a gear module (122) optionally provided with means for driving the functional module (121); wherein the functional module (121) comprises at least one of a light source (1211), an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, a light projecting means such as a projector, a display, or a laser. The functional head system of claim 15, wherein said at least one rotational movement comprises a third rotational movement of the functional module (121) with respect to the gear module (122) around a third rotation axis (A3) intersecting the functional module (121) and the gear module (122), preferably over substantially 180°. The functional head system of claim 16, wherein the functional head (12) comprises a third fastening means (SC3) configured to block said third rotational movement. The functional head system of claims 15 and 16, wherein the functional head (12) comprises a frame (125) arranged between the functional module (121) and the gear module (122), said frame (125) being connected to the functional module (121) and configured to enable said third rotational movement. The functional head system of claim 18, wherein said frame (125) comprises a curved groove (1251), preferably a semi-circular groove (1251), and wherein the functional module (121) comprises a pin (1215) extending in said curved groove (1251) and configured to move along said curved groove (1251) during said third rotational movement. The functional head system of claim 17 and any one of claims 18-19, wherein the frame (125) comprises at least two legs (1252) configured to be connected to said third fastening means (SC3), and wherein said third fastening means (SC3) is configured to secure the frame (125) inside the functional head (12). The functional head system of any one of claims 18-20, wherein the functional head (12) comprises a front portion wherein the functional module (121) is arranged and a rear portion wherein the gear module (122) is arranged, and wherein the frame (125) is configured to be secured to the rear portion of the functional head (12). The functional head system of any one of claims 18-21, wherein the functional head (12) further comprises an annular ring (126) configured to be connected to the functional module (121) and to contact the frame (125), and wherein the frame (125) is configured to be arranged between said annular ring (126) and the functional module (121). The functional head system of any one of claims 15-22, wherein the functional module (121) comprises a light housing (1212) and a light cover (1213) covering the light source (1211) and configured to be releasably attached to the light housing (1212). The functional head system of any one of claims 15-23, wherein the gear module (122) comprises a gear support (1224) on which a functional module driving means (1221), preferably a light source driving means (1221), is arranged, and a gear housing (1222). The functional head system of any one of claims 15-24, wherein the light source (1211) comprises a light support (1214), such as a PCB, on which a plurality of light emitting diodes is mounted. The functional head system of any one of claims 15-25, wherein the gear module (122) comprises any one or more of the following: a light source dimming means, surge protection circuitry, electrostatic discharge protection circuitry, connecting means, a fuse, a metering circuitry, a driving and/or control circuitry for any electrical components of the functional head (12), such as any electrical components of any one of the light source (1211), the image sensing means, the communication means, the sensing means, the loudspeaker, and the light projecting means. A method for securing the functional head system (10) of any one of the previous claims to a support, such as a wall or a pole (P), the method comprising: securing the connector base (11) to the support; mounting the functional head (12) on the connector base (11) by means of the biunique fitting mechanism; rotating at least a portion of the functional head (12); and blocking a rotational movement of at least said portion of the functional head (12). The method of claim 27, wherein the step of rotating at least the portion of the functional head (12) comprises any one or more of the following steps: rotating the functional head (12) with respect to the connector base (11) around a first rotation axis (Al) perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base (11), preferably over at least 180°, more preferably over more than 270°, rotating the functional head (12) around a second rotation axis (A2) parallel to a plane defined by the connector base (11), preferably over substantially 180°, and rotating a functional module (121) of the functional head (12) with respect to a gear module (122) of the functional head (12) around a third rotation axis (A3) intersecting the functional module (121) and the gear module (122), preferably over substantially 180°. The method of claim 27 or 28, further comprising, before mounting the functional head (12) on the connector base (11) by means of the biunique fitting mechanism, the step of connecting an electrical wire (W) extending from the support to the functional head (12). The method of any one of claims 27-29, wherein the functional head system (10) is configured to be secured to a pole (P), and the step of mounting the functional head (12) on the connector base (11) by means of the biunique fitting mechanism comprises inserting the functional head (12) into the connector base (11) in a first orientation in accordance with the key profile, and rotating the functional head (12) with respect to the connector base (11) around a first rotation axis (Al) perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base (11) to a second orientation at an angle from the first orientation, preferably at an angle of substantially 180° from the first orientation. The method of any one of claims 27-30, wherein the step of mounting the functional head (12) on the connector base (11) by means of the biunique fitting mechanism comprises inserting the functional head (12) into the connector base (11) in a first orientation in accordance with the key profile, and rotating the functional head (12) with respect to the connector base (11) around a first rotation axis (Al) perpendicular to a plane defined by the connector base (11) to a second orientation at an angle from the first orientation, preferably at an angle of at least 5° from the first orientation. A functional head system (10) comprising: a functional head (12) configured to be secured to a support, such as a wall or a pole (P), said functional head (12) comprising a functional module (121) and a gear module (122); wherein the functional head (12) comprises a front portion wherein the functional module

(121) is arranged, and a rear portion wherein the gear module (122) is arranged; wherein the functional module (121) is configured to rotate with respect to the gear module

(122) around a rotational axis (A3) intersecting the functional module (121) and the gear module (122). The functional head system of claim 32, wherein the functional module (121) and the gear module (122) have a rotational symmetric shape, preferably a cylindrical or tronconical shape, and the rotational axis (A3) is a symmetry axis of the functional head (12).

34. The functional head system of claim 32 or 33, wherein the functional module (121) is configured to rotate with respect to the gear module (122) by an angle of at least 90°, preferably by an angle of substantially 180°.

35. The functional head system of any one of claims 32-34, wherein the functional head (12) comprises a fastening means (SC3) configured to block said rotation of the functional module (121).

36. The functional head system of any one of claims 32-35, wherein the functional head (12) comprises a frame (125) arranged between the functional module (121) and the gear module (122), said frame (125) being connected to the functional module (121) and configured to enable said rotation of the functional module (121).

37. The functional head system of claim 36, wherein said frame (125) comprises a curved groove (1251), preferably a semi-circular groove (1251), and wherein the functional module (121) comprises a pin (1215) extending in said curved groove (1251) and configured to move along said curved groove (1251) during said rotation.

38. The functional head system of claim 35 and any one of claims 36-37, wherein the frame (125) comprises at least two legs (1252) configured to be connected to said fastening means (SC3), and wherein said fastening means (SC3) is configured to secure the frame (125) to the rear portion of the functional head (12).

39. The functional head system of any one of claims 36-38, wherein the functional head (12) further comprises an annular ring (126) configured to be connected to the functional module (121) and to contact the frame (125), and wherein the frame (125) is configured to be arranged between said annular ring (126) and the functional module (121).

40. The functional head system of any one of claims 32-39, wherein the functional module (121) comprises at least one of a light source (1211), an image sensing means such as a camera, a communication means such as an antenna, a sensing means such as an infrared, IR, sensor or an air quality sensor or a smoke sensor or a microphone, a loudspeaker, a light projecting means such as a projector, a display, or a laser.

41. The functional head system of any one of claims 32-40, wherein the functional module (121) comprises a light source (1211) having an asymmetric light distribution. A functional system comprising: a pole (P); and a plurality of functional head systems (10) according to any one of claims 1-26, said plurality of functional head systems (10) being secured to the pole (P) and arranged one above the other along a longitudinal direction of the pole (P). A functional system comprising: a pole (P); and a plurality of functional head systems (10) according to any one of claims 32-41, said plurality of functional head systems (10) being secured to the pole (P) and arranged one above the other along a longitudinal direction of the pole (P). The functional system of claim 42 or 43, wherein the pole (P) comprises a lower portion, an intermediate portion, and an upper portion; and wherein one or more first functional head systems (10) having a first size are configured to be secured to said lower portion, one or more second functional head systems (10) having a second size smaller than said first size are configured to be secured to said intermediate portion, and one or more third functional head systems (10) having a third size smaller than said second size are configured to be secured to said upper portion.