WO2023242791A1 - Unité d'alimentation d'une charge électrique au moyen d'éléments transparents - Google Patents

Unité d'alimentation d'une charge électrique au moyen d'éléments transparents Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2023242791A1
WO2023242791A1 PCT/IB2023/056197 IB2023056197W WO2023242791A1 WO 2023242791 A1 WO2023242791 A1 WO 2023242791A1 IB 2023056197 W IB2023056197 W IB 2023056197W WO 2023242791 A1 WO2023242791 A1 WO 2023242791A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
unit
panel
conduction element
electric
conduction
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2023/056197
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Mattia RAGGIOTTO
Original Assignee
Damatra S.R.L.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Damatra S.R.L. filed Critical Damatra S.R.L.
Publication of WO2023242791A1 publication Critical patent/WO2023242791A1/fr

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V23/00—Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
    • F21V23/001—Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being electrical wires or cables
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B17/00—Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or glass, slag, or like fibres
    • B32B17/06—Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or glass, slag, or like fibres comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific material
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B17/00—Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or glass, slag, or like fibres
    • B32B17/06—Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or glass, slag, or like fibres comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific material
    • B32B17/10—Layered products essentially comprising sheet glass, or glass, slag, or like fibres comprising glass as the main or only constituent of a layer, next to another layer of a specific material of synthetic resin
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B7/00—Layered products characterised by the relation between layers; Layered products characterised by the relative orientation of features between layers, or by the relative values of a measurable parameter between layers, i.e. products comprising layers having different physical, chemical or physicochemical properties; Layered products characterised by the interconnection of layers
    • B32B7/04—Interconnection of layers
    • B32B7/12—Interconnection of layers using interposed adhesives or interposed materials with bonding properties
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S6/00—Lighting devices intended to be free-standing
    • F21S6/002—Table lamps, e.g. for ambient lighting
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S8/00—Lighting devices intended for fixed installation
    • F21S8/04—Lighting devices intended for fixed installation intended only for mounting on a ceiling or the like overhead structures
    • F21S8/06—Lighting devices intended for fixed installation intended only for mounting on a ceiling or the like overhead structures by suspension
    • F21S8/061—Lighting devices intended for fixed installation intended only for mounting on a ceiling or the like overhead structures by suspension with a non-rigid pendant, i.e. a cable, wire or chain
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • F21V23/00—Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices
    • F21V23/001—Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being electrical wires or cables
    • F21V23/002—Arrangements of cables or conductors inside a lighting device, e.g. means for guiding along parts of the housing or in a pivoting arm
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2250/00—Layers arrangement
    • B32B2250/02—2 layers
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2255/00—Coating on the layer surface
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2255/00—Coating on the layer surface
    • B32B2255/10—Coating on the layer surface on synthetic resin layer or on natural or synthetic rubber layer
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/30—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular thermal properties
    • B32B2307/302—Conductive
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/40—Properties of the layers or laminate having particular optical properties
    • B32B2307/412—Transparent
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2307/00—Properties of the layers or laminate
    • B32B2307/70—Other properties
    • B32B2307/714—Inert, i.e. inert to chemical degradation, corrosion
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2451/00—Decorative or ornamental articles
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2479/00—Furniture
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B32—LAYERED PRODUCTS
    • B32B—LAYERED PRODUCTS, i.e. PRODUCTS BUILT-UP OF STRATA OF FLAT OR NON-FLAT, e.g. CELLULAR OR HONEYCOMB, FORM
    • B32B2590/00—Signboards, advertising panels, road signs

Definitions

  • the present invention refers to a unit for supplying an electrical load.
  • the invention refers also to an installation comprising said unit and an electrical load that can be supplied by said unit.
  • the present invention further refers to a use of said unit for supplying an electrical load.
  • the invention pertains to the technical field regarding the supply of electrical loads and can be particularly applied and adapted to supply electrical loads and/or a signal for valuable, luxury, design applications or installations and similar types of high-end and quality applications or installations.
  • the invention meets needs of operability.
  • the invention is particularly suitable to supply low or extra-low direct current voltage electrical loads; however, it is not excluded the application of the invention to the supply of electrical loads at other voltages and/or with an alternating current.
  • a first known mode of supplying consists of connecting an electrical load directly to an electric energy source, such as a supply socket; such mode is typically implemented by connecting an electrical load in proximity of the electric energy source, for example by a plug.
  • An example of such first mode is represented by the connection of a LED sign to a supply socket by means of a supply cable, an end thereof is connected to the LED sign and the other end being provided with an electric plug connectable to the electric socket.
  • a second supply mode which provides to use one or more extensions (or similar electrical supply cables), to remotely supply said electrical load.
  • Such second supply mode is often very difficult to realize because it provides the use of long cables, which are often visible and therefore, in some applications, they are altogether unattractive because their exposed arrangement could be cluttered and can be a source of safety problems. If such cables are not directly exposed, they are often housed inside suitable ducts or analogous containment bodies; however, it is also not always easy to realize and install said ducts or containment bodies.
  • Patent document W02009003525A1 shows a technical solution suitable to supply LEDs engaged with an edge of a panel. More particularly, document W02009003525A1 discloses a panel provided with a plurality of LEDs arranged in order to cover the prevalent development surface thereof; LEDs are supplied by two bars arranged in proximity of a same edge of the panel (see Figure 2). One bar is connected to a positive pole and the other bar is connected to a negative pole.
  • Such technical solution has reliability and safety problems and therefore is improvable under many points of view.
  • the Applicant has observed that there are possibilities of improving the supply of electrical loads which are or can be located at a determined distance, in other words not in the close surroundings of an electric energy source, such as a supply electric socket.
  • a main object of the present invention consists of overcoming the disadvantages beforehand described with reference to the prior art.
  • an object of the present invention consists of providing a unit for supplying an electrical load capable of reliably and efficiently supplying an electrical load, particularly an electrical load arranged at a determined distance from an electric energy source.
  • a further object of the invention consists of enabling to supply an electrical load (particularly, for retrofitting an existing supply system or plant) which can be made without requiring invasive procedures, such as brickworks or complicated designs or modifications to an existing electric plant.
  • the invention provides a substantially effective technical solution alternative to the solutions of the prior art.
  • the invention enables to supply an electrical load “in a substantially transparent way” (i.e. by the transparent panel and transparent supply tracks); this enables, among the different entailed effects, to “provide luminosity” to the application where the unit according to the invention is installed because the visible radiation can pass through the panel, therefore also increasing the visibility of components/walls/devices, etcetera, arranged behind the panel.
  • the invention enables to optimally arrange such elements, enabling to separate the portion of the unit at which the connection to the electric energy source is made (“inlet” zone of the electrical connections, for example of the cables) from the portion of the unit at which the connection to the electrical load (“outlet” zone of the electrical connections, for ex- ample of the cables) is made.
  • inlet zone of the electrical connections for example of the cables
  • outlet zone of the electrical connections for ex- ample of the cables
  • discontinuities preferably as incisions
  • the provision of discontinuities/incisions enables to delimit one or more conductive tracks between adjacent or consecutive discontinuities/incisions in order to optimize the passage of current in the conductive tracks.
  • the provision of discontinuities/incisions enables to size the width of the conductive tracks by a modulation/selection of the distance between adjacent or consecutive discontinuities/incisions, with the object of ensuring an electrical supply suitable and optimal for the electrical load.
  • the unit for supplying an electrical load is configured to be used both for new installa- tions/applications and also for retrofitting existing installations/applications.
  • the unit or installation can provide, and/or can be interfaced with do- motics systems.
  • Unit for supplying at least one electrical load comprising:
  • the panel comprising a plurality of edges
  • a first conduction element preferably a first conductive bar, associated to the panel and preferably predisposed to be associated to at least one between a first electric polarity and a second electric polarity, optionally both to a first electric polarity and to a second electric polarity, preferably a first conduction element being destined to be connected, in operative conditions, to an electric energy source,
  • a second conduction element preferably a second conductive bar, associated to the panel and preferably predisposed to be associated to at least one between a first electric polarity and a second electric polarity, optionally both to a first electric polarity and to a second electric polarity, preferably the second conduction element being destined to be connected, in operative conditions, to the electrical load to be supplied,
  • At least one arrangement for the connection to an electrical load said at least one arrangement being associated to the panel and being electrically connected to the second conduction panel,
  • At least one conductive track optionally a plurality of conductive tracks, developing between the first conduction element and the second conduction element and configured to establish an electrical connection between the first and second conduction elements, said at least one conductive track being configured to electrically supply the electrical load in operative conditions wherein the unit is connected both to the electric energy source and the electrical load.
  • first and second conduction elements are arranged at and/or in proximity of opposite edges of the panel.
  • said at least one conductive track is associated to and/or is defined on a surface, for example an upper or lower surface, of the panel or of a plate thereof.
  • the panel has at least one pair of conductive tracks spaced from each other and developing between the first conduction element and the second conduction element.
  • the conductive tracks of the pair of conductive tracks being configured to establish an electrical connection between the first and the second conduction elements and being transversal to respective portions distanced from each other of said conduction elements.
  • the panel has longitudinal edges and transversal edges developing transversally to the longitudinal edges, the first and second conduction elements being arranged at or in proximity of longitudinal edges opposite to each other or of transversal edges opposite to each other.
  • said at least one conductive track is connected both to the first conduction element and second conduction element and has an electric continuity with the first and second conduction elements.
  • the specular arrangement being defined with reference to a symmetry plane of the panel, for example with reference to a symmetry plane crossing a dimension of the panel, for example its width and/or its length.
  • first and second conduction elements are arranged on a same surface of the panel or of a plate thereof, for example on the upper or lower surface of the panel or of a plate thereof.
  • the panel comprises at least one substantially transparent plate, for example of vitreous or plastic and/or polymeric material, and an electrically conductive transparent coating engaged at a surface of the plate, for example an upper or lower surface of the plate.
  • said at least one conductive track being defined at said coating between adjacent discontinuities.
  • the panel is layered, preferably the panel comprising at least two plates and each plate forming a layer of the panel.
  • the panel comprises a pair of substantially transparent plates and coupled to each other, preferably a plate of said pair of plates being configured to prevent the coating from oxidizing.
  • each conductive track being delimited by at least one pair of adjacent discontinuities.
  • each discontinuity is or comprises an incision.
  • the panel comprises at least two plates coupled with each other, the transparent coating being arranged between said plates and the first and second conduction elements are both arranged at least partially between the plates.
  • said at least one conductive track particularly each conductive track, develops between ends opposite to each other and is connected to the first conduction element and to the second conduction element at a respective end.
  • the first conduction element is configured to be connected both to a first electric polarity and to a second electric polarity and the second conduction element is configured to be connected both to a first electric polarity and to a second electric polarity.
  • first conduction element and the second conduction element comprises one or more conductive bodies, for example one or more conductive bars and/or one or more conductive segments.
  • both the first conduction element and the second conduction element comprise one or more respective conductive bodies, for example one or more respective conductive bars and/or one or more respective conductive segments.
  • At least one between the first conduction element and the second conduction element comprises a single conductive body, for example a single conductive bar or a single conductive segment.
  • both the first conduction element and the second conduction element comprise a single respective conductive body, for example a single respective conductive bar, or a single respective conductive segment.
  • At least one between the first conduction element and the second conduction element comprises a single conductive body, preferably a single conductive bar, destined to be connected both to the first electric polarity and to the second electric polarity.
  • both the first conduction element and the second conduction element comprise a single respective conductive body, preferably a single respective conductive bar.
  • At least one between the first conduction element and the second conduction element comprises a plurality of conductive bodies, for example a plurality of conductive bars and/or a plurality of conductive segments.
  • both the first conduction element and the second conduction element comprise a respective plurality of conductive bodies, for example a respective plurality of conductive bars and/or a respective plurality of conductive segments.
  • the one or more conductive tracks develop at least partially transversally, particularly orthogonally, to at least one between the first and the second conduction elements, particularly to both.
  • the one or more conductive tracks develop along a development direction, preferably a main development direction, which is transversal, particularly orthogonal, to at least one between the first and the second conduction elements, particularly to both.
  • the one or more conductive tracks develop at least partially transversally, particularly at least partially orthogonally, to at least one between the first and second conduction elements, particularly to both.
  • said at least one or each conductive track has at least one attachment portion, i.e. a portion at which it is connected to the first conduction element, and at least one outlet portion, i.e. a portion at which it is connected to the second conduction element.
  • At least one or each conductive track has a single attachment portion and a plurality of outlet portions.
  • first and second conduction elements develop for at least a portion of a length of the respective edge at or in proximity of which they are placed.
  • first and second conduction elements develop for a length comparable or corresponding or substantially equal to the length of the respective edge at or in proximity of which they are placed.
  • the panel particularly at least one plate thereof and/or the coating, is configured to not overheat when the electrical load is supplied.
  • the unit further comprises a command member, such as a button and/or a switch and/or a domotics system, configured to selectively command the activation or deactivation of the supply of the electrical load (supply performed by the unit).
  • a command member such as a button and/or a switch and/or a domotics system
  • command member being associated and/or being engaged with the panel and being supplied by said at least one conductive track or by a respective conductive track.
  • command member is configured to selectively open or close an electric circuit supplying the electrical load.
  • domotics and/or data signal systems optionally, a domotics and/or data signal systems.
  • said at least one first conduction element associated to the panel of the first unit has an electric continuity with an electric energy source
  • the one or more conductive tracks associated to the panel of the first unit enable the electric continuity and/or the current conduction from said at least one first conduction element associated to the panel of the first unit to said at least one second conduction element associated to the panel of the first unit,
  • said at least one second conduction element associated to the panel of the first unit is electrically associated to, particularly has an electric continuity with, said at least one first conduction element associated to the panel of the second unit,
  • the one or more conductive tracks associated to the panel of the second unit enable the electric continuity and/or the current conduction from said at least one first conduction element associated to the panel of the second unit to said at least one second conduction element associated to the panel of the second unit,
  • said at least one second conduction element associated to the panel of the second unit is connected to the electrical load so that it can supply the latter.
  • each between the first and second conduction elements is in the shape of at least one conductive bar.
  • each conductive bar develops along a main development direction and has a width substantially constant along said main development direction.
  • the unit is a supply unit of an electrical load.
  • the unit operatively acts as a power supply, i.e. as a device configured to electrically supply an electrical load.
  • each conduction element comprises a conductive bar.
  • each conduction element is a busbar.
  • each conduction element has a constant or substantially constant width, said width being defined orthogonally to a development longitudinal direction of the conduction element.
  • said at least one arrangement for the connection to an electrical load comprises a USB port or an analogous connection element, for example an element using data.
  • the unit has a plurality of conductive tracks associated to the first polarity and a plurality of conductive tracks associated to the second polarity.
  • said unit enables to indirectly supply the electrical load, i.e. the supply is performed by interposing said unit between the electric energy source and the electrical load (substantially, the electrical load is not directly connected to and supplied by the electric energy source, but it is connected to, and supplied by said unit).
  • each conduction element consists only of conductive portions.
  • each conduction element does not comprise both conductive portions and non-conductive portions, particularly does not comprise an alternation of conductive portions and non-conductive portions.
  • the unit does not comprise a plurality of electrical loads, such as a plurality of LEDs, engaged with an upper or lower surface of said panel.
  • the panel is configured to operate in humid/wet environments and/or by immersion.
  • the unit is configured to operate in humid environments and/or by immersion.
  • the unit is a watertight unit.
  • Method of supplying at least one electrical load comprising the steps of:
  • connecting the first conduction element to the electric energy source comprises connecting the first conduction element to at least one between a first electric polarity and a second electric polarity, optionally both to a first electric polarity and to a second electric polarity, preferably at opposite portions of the first conduction element or at separated conductive bodies of the first conduction element.
  • connecting the second conduction element to the electrical load comprises connecting the second conduction element to at least one between a first electric polarity and a second electric polarity, optionally both to a first electric polarity and to a second electric polarity, preferably at opposite portions of the second conduction element or at separated conductive bodies of the second conduction element.
  • said at least one electrical load is not defined between two or more plates of the unit and/or is not covered above and below by plates of the unit and particularly is not in contact with plates of the unit.
  • said at least one electrical load is not in direct contact both above and below with plates (particularly respective plates) or other elements (particularly respective elements) of the panel or of the unit.
  • said at least one electrical load is in contact only above (i.e. preferably only at an upper surface thereof) or only below (i.e. preferably only at a lower surface thereof) with a plate or other elements of the panel or of the unit.
  • the unit does not comprise plates which cover, or which are configured and/or destined to cover, both above and below said at least one electrical load.
  • the unit or the installation comprises at least one, or acts as, a Keystone wall plate, or as a plate or an electric socket, the unit or installation being configured to convey current to said at least one Keystone wall plate or plate or electric socket.
  • the installation comprises a fitting configured to fit the panel to a wall, the panel being engaged or engageable (particularly at an end thereof) with said fitting.
  • the unit is configured to house the electrical load at least in an operative condition wherein the electrical load is supplied or can be supplied by said unit.
  • the panel does not comprise elements, particularly plates, configured and/or destined to cover, in said operative condition, both above and below said at least one electrical load.
  • said at least one electrical load is associated to said at least one Keystone wall plate or plate or electric socket,
  • the unit or installation comprises also a switch associated to said at least one Keystone wall plate or plate or electric socket, the switch being configured to operate on, particularly to turn on and turn off, said at least one electrical load.
  • each conductive track develops for a prevalent portion defined between said ends, said at least one electrical load, particularly each electrical load, is not engaged with said at least one conductive track along the prevalent portion thereof.
  • the panel does not comprise element, particularly plates, covering both above and below said at least one electrical load.
  • parts/components/elements can be indicated as coupled, engaged, linked, connected and/or joined together.
  • the terms “coupled”, “engaged”, “linked”, “connected” and/or “joined”, as herein given, are used to indicate a direct connection between two or more parts/components/elements or, as suitable, an indirect connection between said parts/components/elements; the indirect connection can be for example made by one or more further intermediate parts/components/elements. Consequently, the terms “connection”, “connected” and similar to the beforehand cited ones do not necessarily imply a direct contact between the two or more elements.
  • the (direct or indirect) connection among parts/components/elements can be of a cabled or not cabled type; with reference to indirect connection, if it is of a cabled type, it can provide one or more cabled intermediate parts/components/elements, while if it is not of a cabled type, it can provide one or more parts/components/elements wirelessly communicating.
  • the prevalent surfaces of the panel and/or plate can be front and rear surfaces, while when the panel and/or plate are in a vertical position, the prevalent surfaces of the panel and/or plate can be upper and/or lower surfaces. Consequently, when in the following the terms “upper”, “lower”, and derived terms thereof or other terms such as the beforehand cited ones are used for the sake of simplicity, they can be exchanged and/or interpreted also as “front”, “rear”, in dependence of the orientation of the panel of the unit according to the invention.
  • unit for supplying at least one electrical load or “supply unit for at least one electrical load” or similar expressions appliable to the object of the invention, mean a device configured to electrically supply at least one electrical load; it is to be noted that the device comprises a determined compact assembly of components as detailed in the attached claims;
  • operative conditions of the supply unit mean conditions in which the unit is connected both to the electric energy source and to at least one electrical load to be supplied; preferably, in operative conditions the unit supplies said at least one electrical load;
  • bar means an elongated element, i.e. having a length greater than its width, particularly with a length which is at least 2 or 3 or 4 times its width.
  • the length of a bar (or generally of an elongated element) can be at least of an order of magnitude greater than its width (see Figure 1);
  • segment means an element without an elongated shape, i.e. an element provided with a limited length (an element which is not particularly elongated); it should be understood in a relative way, so that the length of the segment is less than the length of a bar or an elongated element. It should be considered that also a segment, analogously to an elongated element, can have a length greater than its width, however the length/width ratio thereof being less than the length/width ratio of the elongated element;
  • first conduction element and “second conduction element” mean conductive elements apt to provide an electrical supply, each of them can consist of one or more conductive bars (busbars) or of one or more conductive segments (substantially each conduction element can be formed by a single body or by a plurality of bodies separated from each other), preferably by a single conductive bar (see Figure 1) or by a single conductive segment (see Figure 12B); in operative conditions, the first conduction element is supplied by the electric energy source and transmits current, by one or more conductive tracks, to the second conduction element, which in turn supplies the electrical load.
  • “conduction element” can be interchangeably defined also as “supply element” because it has a supply function.
  • the term “conduction/supply element” does not mean an electric energy source (which is a component separated from the conduction elements; see the following);
  • electric energy source means a source configured to supply electric energy, as voltage and/or current, to the first conduction element.
  • the term “electric energy source” is a synonym of “electrical supply source”. In operative conditions, the electric energy source is connected to the first conduction element. Examples of electric energy source are: a power supply, a battery, a power grid, etcetera;
  • transparent means “optically transparent”; therefore, when a material or component is defined as “transparent” it means a material is apt to be passed through by, i.e. to transmit, most of the light which is incident to it, and which reflects a small amount. Therefore, the term “transparent” should be understood according to its conventional meaning;
  • the expression “are arranged at or in proximity of distinct edges of the panel” can be interchanged with, and it means that, “they are not located at or in proximity of a same edge of the panel”;
  • pendent installation is therefore an installation which can be suspended (for example can hang from a ceiling) by at least one suspension element.
  • Figure 1 illustrates a unit for supplying an electrical load according to an embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 2 illustrates the unit of Figure 1 in operative conditions, wherein it is connected to an electrical load (on the left in the figure) and to an electric energy source (on the right in the figure). Therefore, Figure 2 illustrates an installation according to the invention
  • FIG. 3 illustrates an installation according to an embodiment of the invention provided with two units, also according to the invention
  • Figure 3A shows the cross-section obtained at a command member (button) along the sectional plane 3A-3A illustrated in Figure 3;
  • Figure 4 illustrates an installation, according to an embodiment of the invention provided with a first and second units, also according to the invention, arranged orthogonally and electrically connected to each other;
  • Figure 5 illustrates a pendent installation, according to an embodiment of the invention, provided with a pair of suspension elements which are apt to hold a unit according to the invention
  • Figure 6 illustrates a pendent installation, according to another embodiment of the invention, comprising a plurality of adjacent supply units, each of them being provided with a respective suspension element;
  • Figure 7 illustrates a table lamp or ground lamp comprising a unit according to the invention
  • Figure 8 illustrates a lighting rosette comprising a pair of units according to the invention; the lighting rosette can be used as a table by turning it upside down (with respect to the orientation shown in Figure 8);
  • Figure 9 shows a display case implementing two units according to the invention; conductive tracks supplying electrical loads (a command member and a lighting element) are shown; it is observed that the conductive tracks are defined at the lid of the display case, at the lateral wall which the lid is hinged to and at the unit arranged astride the axis of the hinge;
  • Figure 9A shows the cross-section made along the sectional plane 9A-9A illustrated in Figure 9; an electrical load (lighting element) engaged with a duct is visible in the cross-section;
  • Figure 10 illustrates a lighting installation destined to be fixed to a wall and comprising a pair of units according to the invention
  • Figure 1 1 shows a table or ground lamp comprising units according to the invention, the conductive tracks thereof being destined to supply the turn on/off button of the table or ground lamp and/or of the lighting element;
  • Figure 12 is an exploded view of an installation (sign) according to an embodiment of the invention, comprising three lighting elements respectively shown, in an exemplifying and nonlimiting way, shaped as letters “L”, “E”, and “D” and an elongated supply element implementing a unit according to the invention;
  • Figure 12A shows the installation of Figure 12 in assembled conditions
  • Figure 12B is a more detailed view of the elongated supply element of Figure 12 and its electrical connections/components;
  • Figure 13A illustrates a front view of units for supplying an electrical load according to an embodiment of the invention wherein the supply elements are in the shape of segments; the segments of the first conduction element are arranged at a first edge of the panel, while the segments of the second conduction element are arranged in proximity of a second edge of the panel which is opposite to the first edge;
  • Figure 13B is a rear view of the unit of Figure 13A;
  • Figure 13C shows a variant of the embodiment of Figures 13A and 13B, wherein it is provided a connection to an electrical load (switch 52’) at a central portion of the panel and where it is provided a fitting to be mounted to a wall.
  • switch 52 electrical load
  • a unit according to the invention is generally indicated by the numeral reference 1 in the figures.
  • the unit 1 according to the invention is configured, devised and destined to supply at least one electrical load 50.
  • the unit is configured to supply an electrical load 50 at a low or extra-low DC voltage (for example it is supplied at 12 V D c or 24 V D c or 48 V D c, wherein DC means Direct Current).
  • DC Direct Current
  • supplying a load at a low or extra-low voltage enables to ensure an optimal safety of the unit 1 .
  • a suitable voltage such as the just cited ones, it is possible to prevent the unit 1 from heating.
  • the electrical load 50 suppliable by the unit can be of different types; as illustrated in the attached figures, it can be or provide one or more lighting elements 51 (for example, of the LED type) and/or a command member 52, 52’ (such as a button 52 or a switch 52’ of other type, see Figures 3, 9 and 11) operating on the unit 1 and apt to manage, particularly turn off/turn on, one or more electrical connections of the unit.
  • any type of electrical load to be supplied can be provided, preferably any electrical load configured to be supplied at a low or extra-low voltage.
  • the electrical load 50 is not covered both above and below, for example by plates 3, 4 or other elements of the panel 2 or of the unit 1 ; such arrangement can be applied both to the unit 1 and installation 100 which will be described in the following.
  • the electrical load 50, particularly the lighting element 51 is not in direct contact both above and below with respective plates 3, 4 or with respective other elements of the unit 1.
  • the unit 1 comprises a substantially transparent panel 2 delimited by a plurality of edges 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. The transparency of the panel 2 enables the visibility through it so that it is useful to make visible components/devices/systems/walls arranged behind the panel 2.
  • the transparency of the panel 2 also has an aesthetic/design characteristic which makes the panel particularly suitable to determined high quality or luxury applications, because the transparency makes the unit 1 aesthetically appealing.
  • the transparency of the panel 2 is a characteristic resulting from the material forming it, which can be for example a plastic and/or polymeric transparent material or a transparent vitreous material, such as a transparent glass.
  • the panel 2 is further at least partially electrically conductive; the electric conduction capability is a characteristic enabling the panel 2 to supply one or more electrical loads.
  • the panel 2 comprises at least one plate 3, 4 and a coating 5 applied to the plate (it is to be noted that the coating 5, in Figures 3A and 9A is schematically illustrated by a line because its thickness is much smaller than the thickness of the panel 2, for example it has an order of magnitude of micrometers).
  • the plate 3, 4 is in turn delimited by a plurality of edges, defining the edges 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d of the panel 2, and has an upper surface and a lower surface; on one of said surfaces the coating 5 is applied. Both the plate 3, 4 and the coating 5 are substantially transparent.
  • the plate 3, 4 can be in single plastic and/or polymeric transparent material or in a vitreous transparent material, particularly transparent glass. It is observed that the panel 2 can comprise two or more plates 3, 4 coupled to each other (see Figures 3A and 9A). Coupling a second plate 4 to a first plate 3, which the coating 5 was beforehand applied to, prevents the coating 5 from oxidizing (antioxidant function of the second plate 4). Moreover, it is observed that coupling a second plate 4 to a first plate 3 can be made by using an adhesive and/or gluing substance, preferably by a glue.
  • the preferred embodiments of the invention provide a panel 2 having at least two plates 3, 4, particularly only two plates 3, 4, among which the coating 5 is arranged.
  • the panel 2 is therefore a layered panel, wherein each plate 3, 4 forms a layer of the panel 2.
  • each plate 3, 4 forms a layer of the panel 2.
  • the plates 3, 4 have preferably the same dimensions, particularly with reference to the plan view cross-section (width and length) and optionally have the same thickness.
  • the prevalent part of the plate 3, 4 and therefore of the panel 2 are devoid of non-transparent covering elements (among which, electrical loads 50); this enables to maximize the transparency characteristic of the panel 2.
  • an electrical load 50 is predisposed to partially cover the upper and/or lower surfaces of the panel 2, it does not cover a prevalent part of the upper or lower surface of the transparent panel 2.
  • the electrical load/s 50 covers/cover at most 10% or 7% or 5% or 3% of the upper or lower surface of the panel 2 and preferably cover/s less than 5% or 3% of the upper or lower surface of the panel 2.
  • the invention does not provide a plurality of electrical loads distributed on the panel 2.
  • the panel 2 does not comprise elements neither configured nor destined to cover both above and below the electrical load 50 or electrical loads 50.
  • the plates 3, 4 of the panel 2 are neither configured nor destined to cover both above and below the electrical load 50 or the electrical loads 50. Therefore, the invention preferably provides that the electrical load 50 or the electrical loads 50 are uncovered at least at one upper surface thereof or at one lower surface thereof, so that they are not arranged as a sandwich between two or more plates 3, 4. Arranging the electrical load 50, particularly the lighting elements 51 , to be uncovered both above and below by the plates 3, 4 makes easier the substitution (for example for a maintenance and/or failure) and makes easy the access and control.
  • the coating 5 is electrically conductive; such property of the coating 5 enables the panel to supply at least one electrical load 50.
  • the techniques for applying the coating 5 to the plate are per se known.
  • the unit comprises at least one first conduction element 7 and a second conduction element 8.
  • the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 are arranged at or in proximity of distinct edges 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d of the panel 2. After all, the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 are distanced from each other so that they do not develop at or in proximity of a same edge 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d of the panel 2.
  • the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 are arranged at or in proximity of opposite edges of the panel 2; see for example Figure 1 where the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 are respectively arranged at the pair of opposite edges 2d, 2b of Figure 5 where the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 are respectively placed at the pair of opposite edges 2c, 2a.
  • the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 are engaged with the panel at a same face/surface of the panel 2 or at a plate 3,4 forming it.
  • the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 are placed at least partially between the plates 3, 4; such arrangement of the conduction elements 7, 8 enables them to be in contact with the coating 5 and therefore with the conductive tracks 9, which will be detailed in the following, for enabling the electric continuity (current conduction).
  • the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 are specularly arranged on the panel 2. Particularly, as illustrated in Figure 1 , the conduction elements 7, 8 can be specular to a symmetry plane crossing the centerline of the length of the panel 2.
  • Each conduction element 7, 8 is arranged to be associated to at least one between a first electric polarity (positive electric polarity) and a second electric polarity (positive electric polarity).
  • a first electric polarity positive electric polarity
  • a second electric polarity positive electric polarity
  • each conduction element 7, 8 is arranged to be associated both to the first electric polarity and to the second electric polarity.
  • first and second conduction elements 7, 8 The difference between the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 is of a functional type and consists of their operative connection; indeed, in operative conditions, the first conduction element 7 is connected to an electric energy source 21 and the second conduction element 8 is connected to the electrical load 50.
  • Figures 2 and 3 illustrating the unit 1 in operative conditions.
  • the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 can be substantially similar or corresponding or identical or specular;
  • Figure 1 shows, for example, structurally identical conduction elements 7, 8.
  • the conduction elements 7, 8 could be dimensionally different, for example in terms of length and/or in terms of trend (shape).
  • each conduction element 7, 8 can develop along a main development direction and can exhibit an elongated shape.
  • each conduction element 7, 8 can have any development, for example a trend having a plurality of trend directions, such as a trend formed by a polygonal line and/or a shaped trend which does not develop along a single development direction.
  • Each conduction element 7, 8, or only one between the first and second conduction elements 7, 8, can be formed by a single conductive body 7’, 8’ or by a plurality of conductive bodies 7”, 8”.
  • each conductive body 7, 8 can be a conductive bar or a conductive segment.
  • at least one or each conduction element 7, 8 can be in one piece (for example, see Figures 1 and 2) or can be formed by a plurality of segments 7”, 8” distanced from each other but developing anyway in proximity of or at distinct edges 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d or the panel 2 (see the panel at the left top in Figure 3, where each conduction element 7, 8 is formed by a plurality of segments 7”, 8”).
  • Figure 13A shows a unit wherein both the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 are formed by two segments 7”, 8”; the segments 7” are distanced from the segments 8”.
  • the segments 7” are arranged at the body 2c of the panel 2, while the segments 8” are arranged in proximity of the edge 2a (curvilinear edge) of the panel 2, which is opposite to the edge 2c, and in proximity of a portion (lower portion, with reference to the orientation of Figure 13A) of the lateral edges 2b and 2b of the panel 2 distanced from the edge 2c.
  • the two segments 7” are close to each other, as the two segments 8” are close to each other.
  • At least one conduction element 7, 8, particularly both the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 can be made in one elongated piece 7’, 8’ (i.e. it can be made in a conductive bar 7’, 8’ - see, for example, Figure 1 ) or in one piece 7”, 8” having a limited length (see Figure 12B) or can be formed by a plurality of segments 7”, 8” having a limited length (for example, see Figures 3, 4, 5, 13A, and 13B).
  • first conduction elements 7, 8 (or the bodies 7’, 8’, 7”, 8” thereof) is matched by a same number of second conduction elements (or the bodies 7’, 8’, 7”, 8” thereof); for example see Figure 1 where a first conduction element 7 is matched by a second conduction element 8 or the panel at the left top of Figure 3 where three segments 7” of the first conduction element 7 are matched by three segments 8” of the second conduction element 8 or Figures 13A and 13B where two segments 7” of the first conduction element 7 are matched by two segments 8” of the second conduction element 8.
  • a determined number of first conduction elements 7 is matched by a different number of second conduction elements 8 (or by the bodies 8’, 8” thereof); see for example the panel 2 at the right in Figure 3 where each of the two segments 7” of the first conduction element 7 arranged on the left edge 2b of said panel 2 is matched by two respective segments 8” of the second conduction element 8 arranged on the right edge 2d of said panel 2, for a total amount of two segments 7” of first conduction element 7 and of four segments 8” of second conduction element 8.
  • the panel 2 of Figure 13C where two segments 7” of the first conduction element 7 are matched by two pairs of segments 8”.
  • each conductive track 9 is defined between adjacent or consecutive discontinuities 5’.
  • Each conductive track is associated, by the coating, which it is defined on, to an upper or lower surface of the panel 2 or of a plate 3, 4 of the panel 2.
  • each conductive track 9 develops between the first conduction element 7 and the second conduction element 8 and is configured to establish an electrical connection between the first and second conduction elements 7, 8.
  • One or more conductive tracks 9, optionally each conductive track 9, is therefore configured to electrically supply, or to contribute to the electrical supply of, the electrical load 50 in operative conditions of the unit 1.
  • each conductive track 9 exhibits at least one attachment portion 9a, i.e. a portion at which it is connected to the first conduction element 7, and at least one outlet portion 9b, i.e. a portion at which it is connected to the second conduction element 8 (see Figure 12B).
  • the attachment portion 9a is opposite to the outlet portion 9b.
  • each conductive track 9 can have only one attachment portion 9a and a plurality of outlet portions 9b; to this end, see the unit 1 at right in Figure 3, wherein each conductive track 9 has only one attachment portion 9a and two outlet portions 9b.
  • non-conductive, coated or uncoated portions 10 can be provided; coated non-conductive portions 10 are illustratively shown in Figure 1 .
  • each discontinuity 5’ can correspond to a local absence of the coating 5, apt to locally interrupt the electric conduction of the coating 5.
  • the coating 5 preferably has at least two pairs of discontinuities 5’, where- in each pair of discontinuities delimits a respective conductive track 9.
  • the unit 1 is specular with respect to two symmetry planes which cross respective centerlines of the panel 2 (the centerline of its length and the centerline of its width, wherein the length and width of the panel can be identified respectively as the horizontal and vertical dimensions in Figure 1)
  • four discontinuities 5’ in the upper portion of the panel 2 and four specular discontinuities 5’ in the lower portion of the panel 2 are provided; each group of four discontinuities 5’ delimits respectively three conductive tracks 9.
  • the discontinuities are in the shape of incisions 5’.
  • each incision 5’ is a local absence of the coating 5; since the conductive coating 5 is absent, the incision 5’ enables to locally interrupt the electric conduction of the coating 5, concentrating it in the coating 5 portion defined between adjacent incisions 5’.
  • the current does not flow from a conductive track 9 to the adjacent conductive track 9 due to the physical separation determined by the incision 5’ defined between them.
  • the discontinuities 5’ can be made by laser after coupling the coating 5 to the plate 3, 4; this operation can therefore provide to laser etch the coating 5 coupled to the plate 3, 4.
  • FIG. 1 it is shown a unit 1 wherein both the first and second conductive elements 7, 8 are formed by a single respective elongated conductive body 7’, 8’ (a respective conductive bar), while in the panels 2 of Figure 3, first and second conduction elements 7, 8 respectively formed by a plurality of conductive bodies 7”, 8” (conductive segments) are shown.
  • the panel at the left of Figure 3 implements a unit 1 provided with a first conduction element 7 which comprises five conductive bodies 7” supplying two electrical load 52, 52’ (a button 52 and a switch 52’) and an arrangement 11 (a USB port) for the connection to an electrical load and provided with a second conduction element 8 which comprises five respective conductive bodies 8”; to the button 52 and to the USB port 11 are associated, by two respective conductive tracks 9, two conductive bodies 7” of the first conduction element 7 and two corresponding conductive bodies 8” of the second conduction element 8, while to the switch 52’ are associated, by a conductive track 9, a conductive body 7” of the first conduction element 7 and a conductive body 8” of the second conduction element 8.
  • each conductive body 7 is associated, by a respective conductive track 9 splitting in two branches, to a respective pair of conductive bodies 8” forming the second conduction element 8 (to each branch of the conductive track 9 is connected a respective conductive body 8”, for a total amount of four conductive bodies 8” of the second conduction element 8); downstream the second conduction element 8, arrangements 78 for the connection to a pair of electrical loads 50 are shown, wherein the ondulated continuous lines schematically illustrate electric cables 77, which are just an example of possible modes of connection 78 to an electrical load 50.
  • the arrangement 78 can comprise flexible electric cables 77 and/or stiff elements. In the following, more details will be given.
  • each segment 7”, 8 can be as long as the width of one or more conductive tracks 9 which it is connected to or can have a dimension greater than it/them or can have a dimension smaller than it/them (see Figures 13A and 13B).
  • FIGS 13A and 13B some figures schematically show the conduction elements 7, 8; for example, the figures show schematic illustrations wherein, in some cases, the conduction elements 7, 8 or the segments 7”, 8” thereof are longer than the width of the corresponding conductive track 9 (see Figures 7, 8, 10, 11), this characteristic does not want to be a limitation of the length of the conduction elements 7, 8 and of the segments 7”, 8” thereof.
  • the conduction elements 7, 8 or the segments 7”, 8” thereof are sometimes illustrated as provided with a determined depth (for example, see Figures 7, 8 and 11); it is to be noted that such illustrations are absolutely schematic and are not indicative of the real thickness of the conduction elements 7, 8 or of the segments 7”, 8” thereof, because they preferably have a limited thickness; they can be for example formed by sheets, therefore by thin or relatively thin elements.
  • Figures 7, 8 and 11 are used to illustrate that the conduction elements 7, 8 can be integrated (housed) in other elements of an installation 100, such as a base or an upper portion.
  • the unit 1 comprises at least one arrangement 11 , 78 to be connected to an electrical load 50, said arrangement 11 , 78 is associated to the panel 2 and establishes an electrical connection with the second conduction element 8.
  • the arrangement 11 , 78 to be connected to the electrical load 50 can be and/or provide, a USB port 11 and/or a data connection, or one or more cables 77 (see Figure 3), a socket or any other component/connection/attachment apt to electrically connect an electrical load 50 to the second conduction element 8 in order to supply the electrical load 50.
  • the unit 1 does not provide visible cables. If the unit 1 does not provide visible cables, the cables can be completely absent or can be directly visible (“hidden” cables).
  • the cables can be housed inside suitable ducts 79 (for example, see Figure 9A, wherein the sectioned component provided with a sloped wall is a duct) or other containment bodies suitably arranged for limiting o almost eliminating their visibility, therefore without compromising the transparency of the unit 1 .
  • the unit 1 can comprise further components, in dependence of the specific application and/or design choices.
  • Figure 3 shows that the unit 1 can comprise ele- ments/boards, such as control elements/boards. More particularly, Figure 3 illustrates that upstream the panel 2, it is possible to provide a relay board or dimmer board 80 or DALI board (upstream the button 52) to which an electric cable 5T (for example, a LED or ON/OFF type lighting element), a control board 81 (a 12/24 V board, upstream the switch 52’) can be connected.
  • the touch metal switch 52’ can be configured to manage the supply or interruption of the supply to the right unit 1 .
  • the unit 1 can comprise, and/or can interface with, one or more domotics systems.
  • the element indicated by 81 can be a board suitable to manage the domotics and the element indicated by 52’ could be a command input delivering a data signal to the board 81 , which indexes the data signal.
  • a plurality of electrical loads 50 can be provided, each of them is associated to a unique IP address; the domotics system, by the data signal, can manage the commands to the IP addresses and therefore can in this way manage the electrical loads 50 (for example, lighting elements 51 ).
  • the IP addresses associated to the electrical loads it is possible to supply a determined electrical load 50 or a subset of the plurality of electrical loads 50.
  • the domotics signal (apt to enable to manage a data signal) can be for example provided by one among: a “DALI” system, a “Konnex” (KNX) system or a “1-10V” system.
  • the unit 1 is preferably a watertight unit.
  • the unit 1 can be configured to operate in humid/wet environments and/or by immersion (underwater applications).
  • the unit 1 is configured to prevent water from entering between the two plates 3, 4, in order to ensure the electric conduction at the coating 5 and consequently of the conductive tracks 9.
  • the degree of protection of the unit 1 can be IP68; therefore, it can be used in a humid/wet environment or by immersion.
  • the unit 1 can be used in humid/wet environments without the risk of oxidation (therefore without the risk of forming rust in the metal components); the unit 1 can be therefore used in external environments, which are subjected to humidity.
  • the unit 1 is configured to enable the flow of current astride an element forming a continuity solution, for example a continuity solution between surfaces, such as a hinge.
  • a continuity solution for example a continuity solution between surfaces, such as a hinge.
  • Figure 9 illustrates a display case 100 wherein a unit 1 is arranged astride the axis of a hinge and is configured to conduct current between the first and second conduction elements 7, 8 due to the conductive track 9 which develops astride the axis of a hinge.
  • Said unit 1 can comprise two panels 2 apt to rotate with respect to each other or an articulated panel, wherein the panel comprises two rotatable portions due to a mechanical and/electric joint (for example, a ribbon cable or flat cable).
  • said unit does not form the hinge between the lid 101 and the wall 102 of the display case 100 (the unit 1 is not apt to support the weight); the component acting as a hinge is not shown in Figure 9.
  • the unit 1 can be applied also to display cases or other existing systems (retrofitting) in order to provide electric properties to said systems and to therefore enable to supply one or more electrical loads 50.
  • a touch metal type switch 52’ is provided on the lid 101 ; however, instead of the switch 52’, an electric different load 50 (for example a lighting element 51 ) can be provided on the lid 101 ; in this case, two units 1 of the just described type can be provided astride the axis of a hinge (for example, parallel at each other), each of them comprises a respective conductive track 9 destined to be connected to a respective electric polarity.
  • an electric different load 50 for example a lighting element 51
  • two units 1 of the just described type can be provided astride the axis of a hinge (for example, parallel at each other), each of them comprises a respective conductive track 9 destined to be connected to a respective electric polarity.
  • the invention refers to a use of the beforehand described unit 1 for supplying at least one electrical load 50.
  • the unit 1 can be used in humid or wet environments or by immersion (underwater use).
  • the unit 1 for supplying an electrical load 50 is suitable to be used both for new installa- tions/applications and also for retrofitting existing installations/applications, particularly for avoiding brickworks.
  • the retrofit can be for example performed any time someone desires to substitute an existing supply mode of an electrical load 50 with the unit 1 according to the invention, updating in this way the supply of the electrical load 50, improving the electric performance of the obtained installation 100 and/or providing aesthetic quality to the installation 100.
  • the invention refers to an installation 100 comprising a unit 1 of the beforehand described type and at least one electrical load 50 to be supplied.
  • the installation 100 is associated to an electric energy source 21 suitable to supply the unit 1 .
  • the electric energy source 21 is connected to the first conduction element 7 of the unit 1 .
  • the installation 100 comprises the electric energy source 21 , for example when this one is implemented by a power supply or a battery.
  • the installation can comprise a single unit 1 or a plurality of units T, 1 ”.
  • the installation can comprise a first unit T and a second unit 1”, wherein the first unit T is interposed between the electric energy source 21 and the second unit 1”, while the second unit 1” is interposed between the first unit T and the at least one electrical load 50. Therefore, the first unit T is electrically connected to the electric energy source 21 and the second unit 1 ” and enables to supply the second unit 1” while the second unit 1”, which is electrically connected to the first unit T and to the at least one electrical load 50, enables to supply the electrical load 50.
  • the electrical connections of an installation 100 made in this way can be therefore the following:
  • the at least one first conduction element 7 of the panel 2’ of the first unit T is suitable to establish an electric continuity with the electric energy source 21
  • the one or more conductive tracks 9 associated to the panel 2’ of the first unit 1 ’ enable the electric continuity (current conduction) from the at least one first conduction element 7 associated to the panel 2’ of the first unit 1 ’ to the at least one second conduction element 8 associated to the panel 2’ of the first unit 1
  • the at least one second conduction element 8 associated to the panel 2’ of the first unit 1 ’ is electrically associated to, particularly establishes an electric continuity with, the at least one first conduction element 7 associated to the panel 2” of the second unit 1”,
  • the one or more conductive tracks 9 associated to the panel 2” of the second unit 1 ” enable the electric continuity (current conduction) from the at least one first conduction element 7 of the panel 2” of the second unit 1 ” to the at least one second conduction element 8 associated to the panel 2” of the second unit 1”,
  • the at least one second conduction element 8 associated to the panel 2” of the second unit 1 ” is connected to the electrical load 50 in order to be capable of supplying it.
  • FIG. 4 An installation 100 made in this way which comprises both a first and second units 1 ’, 1” is illustrated in Figure 4.
  • the installation of Figure 4 comprises a base 103 and a wall 104 transversal to the base 103; the wall 104 and base 103 comprise a respective panel 2’, 2”. More particularly, the base 103 and the wall 104 comprise and implement a respective unit T, 1” according to the invention and are electrically connected to each other by the conduction elements 7 (segments 7”), 8 (segments 8”) of said units T, 1 ”.
  • the first unit T therefore consists of the base 103 and the second unit 1 ” consists of the transversal wall 104.
  • the first unit T is connected to an electric energy source 21 and therefore acts as an electric energy source for the second unit 1 ”, while the second unit 1 ” is connected to the electrical load 50 to be supplied; it is understood that such modes of connection can be made, when required also by more than two units 1 , T, 1 ”, for example by providing one or more intermediate units 1 interposed between the first and second units T, 1”.
  • the installation 100 can comprise a domotics system, for example of the beforehand described type.
  • installation 100 is the following: installations provided with one or more command members 52, 52’ (see Figure 3 and Figure 9), installations provided with a base 103 (see Figure 4), pending installations (see Figures 5 and 6), table or ground lamps (see Figures 7 and 11), rosettes for lighting and/or tables (see Figure 8), display cases (see Figure 9) or other display installations, lighting installations destined to be fixed to a wall (see Figure 10), installations provided with a supply elongated element implementing a unit 1 according to the invention (see Figure 12). Some details regarding said installations will follow.
  • the installation 100 of Figure 3 provides a first panel (left panel) provided with a button 52, a USB port 11 and a touch metal type switch 52’ (in figure, from left to right).
  • the button 52 and the switch 52’ are types of command members; as illustrated in Figure 3, in order to supply the button two conductive tracks 9 are required, while for supplying the touch metal type switch 52, one conduction track 9 is sufficient.
  • Figure 3A shows a section made at the button 52, illustrating how it can be received inside a housing 34 provided by two plates 3, 4 forming the panel 2 which is through with respect to both; in other embodiments, the button 52 can be received in a housing 34 being through only with respect to one of the two plates 3, 4.
  • the embodiments of Figures 13A and 13B show a panel 2 provided with a housing 34 which is through with respect to the two plates 3, 4 forming the panel 2.
  • the illustrated installation 100 is suitable to be installed, due to the provision of a base 103, on a horizontal surface, for example a floor.
  • Figure 5 illustrates a pending installation 100 provided with a pair of suspension elements
  • the suspension elements 105 which are apt to support a unit 1 according to the invention.
  • the suspension elements 105 can house supply cables which connect an electric energy source (not shown in Figure 5) to the first conduction element 7, which consists of two conductive bodies 7”.
  • Figure 6 illustrates a pending installation 100, according to another embodiment of the invention, comprising a plurality of adjacent supply units 1 , each of them being provided with a respective suspension element 105.
  • the suspension elements 105 can house supply cables connected to the first conduction element 7.
  • Figures 7 and 11 show table or ground lamps (in dependence of their height, for example given by the length of the support holding the one or more lighting elements 51 ) 100; the lamp
  • Figure 1 1 is provided with a button 52 apt to turn on/turn off the lighting element 51.
  • the button 52 is illustrated at an upper portion of the installation 100; it is understood that in other embodiments, it can be provided on the support holding the one or more lighting elements 51 or on the lower portion (base) of the lamp 100.
  • Figure 8 shows an installation 100 configured to operate according to a double use; with the orientation of Figure 8 it acts as a lighting rosette, while when it is upside down, it acts as a table or ground, the abutment surface thereof being the lower surface of the rosette.
  • the display case 100 of Figure 9 is apt to contain, by keeping visible, a display element
  • the lid 101 arranged inside a volume delimited by a lid 101 and by a plurality of lateral walls, the lid
  • the display case 100 is provided with a lighting element 51 arranged at an edge of the panel 2, 102 which supplies it; the detail of Figure 9A illustrates both the lighting element 51 , which can be of the LED type, and the duct 79, which can be used for further not illustrated lighting elements.
  • the installation 100 of Figure 10 is suitable to be installed on a wall and comprises two units 1 placed at respective supports 108 apt to install the installation to a wall and two lighting elements 51 , each of them being connected to and supplied by a respective unit 1.
  • the lighting elements 51 are embedded in a same cylindrical element 109; it is understood that in other embodiments, the shape of said element 109 can be different from the cylindrical one.
  • the supports 108 are apt to be installed on a wall by a plate 110.
  • the first conduction element 7 of each unit 1 is arranged behind the plate 110, while the second conduction element 8 of each unit 1 is embedded in the cylindrical element 109.
  • FIG. 12 it is substantially a sign 100 provided with three lighting elements 51 supplied by an elongated transparent supply element 111 which comprises and implements a unit 1 ; it is understood that, in other embodiments, the lighting elements 51 can be in a different number and/or they can consist of any other electrical load 50.
  • the supply elongated element 111 enables to supply electrical loads 50 arranged at a determined distance from an electric energy source 21 .
  • the elongated supply element 111 therefore acts as a transparent “extension” apt to convey current, to a desired distance from an electric energy source 21 , i.e.
  • the electrical loads 50 are three lighting elements 51 respectively shown, in an exemplifying and non-limiting way, in the shape of letters “L”, “E”, and “D”; it is understood that they can be shaped differently.
  • Figure 12 schematically shows the three pairs of conductive bodies 8” forming the second conduction element 8 (assembled as shown in Figure 12A); the electric components of the unit 1 are more particularly illustrated in Figure 12B.
  • Figure 12B shows a first conduction element 7 comprising two conductive bodies 7” (two segments) opposite to each other at a central portion of the elongated supply element 111 ; an attachment portion 9a of the conductive track 9 extends from each conductive body 7”, the attachment portion then splits in three branches, each of them is terminated by a respective outlet portion 9b engaged with a conductive body 8” of the second conduction element 8.
  • the upper conductive body 7” of the first conduction element 7 is associated to a positive polarity, while the lower conductive body 7” of the first conduction element 7 is associated to a negative polarity; each of said conductive bodies 7” is shown as associated to the respective polarity by a cable. It is understood that in other embodiments, the arrangement can be inverted and/or different with reference to the number and/or development of the conductive tracks or to other details.
  • the elongated supply element 111 further comprises holes 112 apt to enable to position the sign, for example on a wall, by suitable fixing means.
  • FIG. 13A and 13B shows a unit 1 and two LED type lighting elements 51 ; it is understood that the LED type lighting elements 51 can be in a number different from two. It is understood that the lighting elements 51 can be replaced with one or more electrical loads 50, for example with a command member (button) 52, (switch, for example of the touch metal type) 52’.
  • the unit 1 is configured to supply the LED type lighting elements 51.
  • the panel 2 of the unit comprises two plates 3, 4; these are crossed by the through housing 34, which is in the shape of a through hole.
  • the unit 1 of Figures 13A and 13B can be part of an installation 100 comprising a fitting 121 which an end of the panel 2 is engaged with; such arrangement is shown, with reference to a variant, in Figure 13C.
  • the fitting 121 is configured to install the unit 1 to a wall, for example made of bricks or plasterboard or other suitable material.
  • the fitting 121 has a housing (particularly a slit) 122 configured to receive an end of the panel 2.
  • Figure 13C shows a variant of the embodiment of Figures 13A and 13B, wherein it can be provided a connection to an electrical load 50 (switch 52’) also at a central portion of the panel 2. In other embodiments, such connection to an electrical load 50 can be provided at other portions of the panel 2.
  • the switch 52’ can be used to operate the one or more lighting elements 51 or one or more other electrical loads 50 of the unit 1.
  • the unit 1 when is provided with a switch 52’ and when is mounted (or is configured to be mounted) to the fitting 121 , substantially performs the function of a Keystone wall plate or a plate or an electric socket.
  • the fitting 121 can be provided independently from the presence of two arrangements for the connection to electrical loads 50 placed in different portions of the panel 2 (the configuration of Figure 13C) and viceversa. Moreover, the arrangements for the connection to electrical loads 50 and the electrical loads 50 can be in a number different from the ones shown in Figures 13A-13C.
  • the present invention refers to a method of supplying at least one electrical load 50 by at least one unit 1 of the beforehand described type.
  • the method provides to have at least one unit 1 or at least one installation 100 of the beforehand described type.
  • the method comprises the steps of connecting the first conduction element 7 to an electric energy source 21 and connecting the second conduction element 8 to the electrical load 50, particularly by an arrangement 11 , 78 for the connection to an electrical load 50.
  • connection of the first conduction element 7 to an electric energy source 21 provides to connect the first conduction element 7 to at least one between a first electric polarity and a second electric polarity, optionally both to a first electric polarity and to a second electric polarity, preferably at opposite portions of the first conduction element 7 (particularly in case the first conduction element with a single body 7”, see for example Figure 1 ) or at the separated conductive bodies 7” of the first conduction element 7 (for example, see Figure 3 or Figure 12).
  • connection of the second conduction element 8 to the electrical load 50 provides to connect the second conduction element 8 to at least one between a first electric polarity and a second electric polarity, optionally both to a first electric polarity and to a second electric polarity, preferably at opposite portions of the second conduction element 8 (particularly in case of a second conduction element with a single body 8’, for example see Figure 1) or at separated conductive bodies 8” of the second conduction element 8 (for example, see Figure 3).
  • the method comprises the step of supplying the electrical load 50 by said unit 1.
  • the method enables to supply the electrical load 50 without using electric cables for performing the conduction by/through the panel 2; in other words, the conduction of the panel 2 occurs only at said conductive track/s 9.
  • each plate 3, 4 can be different from the beforehand described plastic and/or polymeric and/or vitreous materials, as long as the material used for each plate 3, 4 is transparent.
  • each conductive track 9 can be different from the ones illustrated in the attached figures, which are given only in an illustrative way.
  • the specific paths of the conductive tracks 9 are a function of the specific applications and can meet specific design choices.
  • the number of electrical loads 50 is at least equal to one or can be a function of the specific application/installation where the unit 1 is destined to operate.
  • the type of electrical load/s is function of the specific application/installation where the unit 1 is destined to operate. Therefore, the number and type of electrical loads 50 can be clearly different from the ones illustrated in the attached figures and herein described; for example the installation of Figure 2, where only one electrical load 50 and only one electric energy source 21 are shown, in other embodiments could comprise two or three electrical loads and/or two or three electric energy sources connected to the unit 1 (this being possible due to the electrical connections there illustrated).
  • the conduction elements 7, 8 are not necessarily arranged at opposite edges 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d of the panel 2; for example, a conduction element 7, 8, particularly the second conduction element 8 or only its conductive body 8’, 8”, can be provided in a more or less central zone of the panel 2 (for example in a more or less central zone in proximity of a body 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d); for example, see Figure 3 where, in the left unit, the conductive bodies 8” of the second conduction element 8 are arranged in proximity of the upper edge 2c of the panel 2.
  • the lighting elements 51 can be of a LED type or of another type, optionally commanded by a command member 52, 52’, for example a button 52 or a data bus.
  • the invention is suitable to be used in many applications; for example, in addition to the beforehand described applications, the unit 1 or instal- lation 100 can be used to convey current to Keystone wall plates or plates or electric sockets, preferably by providing a fitting 121 (see Figure 13C); in case a switch 52’ is integrated in the Keystone wall plates or plates or electric sockets, the invention enables to obtain a unit 1 and/or installation 100 containing a switch 52’, which are substantially transparent. Since the switch 52’ is substantially transparent, such unit 1 or installation 100 is, besides being technically sound, also aesthetically appealing.
  • the invention enables to supply one or more electrical loads 50 if it is not present an electric source 21 in the close surroundings, because the unit 1 is configured to convey electric energy via the conductive tracks 9.
  • the invention enables to supply at least one electrical load 50 in a not invasive and technically efficient way and pleasant from the aesthetic point of view (due to the transparency of the panel 3, 4, coating 5 and conductive tracks 9 there made).
  • the unit 1 according to the invention is compact and does not preferably show elements protruding from a plan cross-section of the panel 2.
  • the unit 1 is capable of supplying one or more electrical loads 50 by a compact volume typical of the panel; it is observed that the dimensions of the panel 2 are more or less limited in dependence of the application and/or design choices.
  • the invention enables to supply one or more electrical loads 50 without invasive brickworks; indeed, the unit 1 can be simply connected, besides to the load or to the electrical loads 50, also to an electric energy source 21 such as a wall socket so that it can operate.
  • each element, component and/or step of the product/method according to the invention can be substituted with an equivalent element, component and/or step (in the following called “equivalent/s”); such equivalent/s can be already existing at the filing or priority date of the present patent application or may be subsequently conceived/developed.

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  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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Abstract

La présente invention concerne une unité (1) d'alimentation d'une charge électrique (50). L'unité (1) comprend : un panneau transparent et électriquement conducteur (2), et des premier et second éléments de conduction (7, 8) associés au panneau (2) et prédisposés pour être associés à au moins une polarité parmi des première et seconde polarités électriques. Les premier et second éléments de conduction (7, 8) sont destinés à être connectés à une source d'énergie électrique (21) et à la charge électrique (50), respectivement. L'unité (1) comprend en outre au moins une piste conductrice (9), associée à et/ou définie sur le panneau (2), se développant entre les premier et second éléments de conduction (7, 8) et configurée pour les connecter électriquement. La piste conductrice (9) est transparente et est configurée pour alimenter électriquement la charge électrique (50) dans des conditions de fonctionnement. La piste conductrice (9) est définie entre des discontinuités adjacentes (5') du panneau (2). Les premier et second éléments de conduction (7, 8) sont agencés au niveau ou à proximité de bords distincts (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) du panneau (2).
PCT/IB2023/056197 2022-06-17 2023-06-15 Unité d'alimentation d'une charge électrique au moyen d'éléments transparents WO2023242791A1 (fr)

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IT102022000012920 2022-06-17

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Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3701342A1 (de) * 1987-01-19 1988-07-28 Helmut Schwankhart Raumbeleuchtungsanlage
WO2012000969A1 (fr) * 2010-06-29 2012-01-05 Agc Glass Europe Panneau de vitrage comprenant une premiere feuille de verre, au moins un circuit electrique interne et un connecteur
BE1019812A3 (fr) * 2011-03-14 2013-01-08 Agc Glass Europe Panneau de vitrage comprenant une premiere feuille de verre, au moins un circuit electrique interne et un connecteur.
US20170041987A1 (en) * 2014-04-24 2017-02-09 Saint-Gobain Glass France Pane with an illuminated switch surface and a heating function
WO2018234777A1 (fr) * 2017-06-19 2018-12-27 Richard Liddle Structure transparente ayant des éléments électroconducteurs
US11131449B2 (en) * 2019-10-25 2021-09-28 Liquidleds Lighting Corp. Lighting device

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE3701342A1 (de) * 1987-01-19 1988-07-28 Helmut Schwankhart Raumbeleuchtungsanlage
WO2012000969A1 (fr) * 2010-06-29 2012-01-05 Agc Glass Europe Panneau de vitrage comprenant une premiere feuille de verre, au moins un circuit electrique interne et un connecteur
BE1019812A3 (fr) * 2011-03-14 2013-01-08 Agc Glass Europe Panneau de vitrage comprenant une premiere feuille de verre, au moins un circuit electrique interne et un connecteur.
US20170041987A1 (en) * 2014-04-24 2017-02-09 Saint-Gobain Glass France Pane with an illuminated switch surface and a heating function
WO2018234777A1 (fr) * 2017-06-19 2018-12-27 Richard Liddle Structure transparente ayant des éléments électroconducteurs
US11131449B2 (en) * 2019-10-25 2021-09-28 Liquidleds Lighting Corp. Lighting device

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