EP1409807B1 - Canopy-like decorative structure - Google Patents
Canopy-like decorative structure Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP1409807B1 EP1409807B1 EP02750189A EP02750189A EP1409807B1 EP 1409807 B1 EP1409807 B1 EP 1409807B1 EP 02750189 A EP02750189 A EP 02750189A EP 02750189 A EP02750189 A EP 02750189A EP 1409807 B1 EP1409807 B1 EP 1409807B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- biasing member
- decorative structure
- cable
- flexible panel
- decorative
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 7
- 229910052751 metal Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 claims description 5
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 claims 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 6
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 5
- 239000004753 textile Substances 0.000 description 5
- 230000002745 absorbent Effects 0.000 description 2
- 239000002250 absorbent Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000123 paper Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 description 2
- 229910052782 aluminium Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N aluminium Chemical compound [Al] XAGFODPZIPBFFR-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- -1 for example Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000009432 framing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000012423 maintenance Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920005615 natural polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002952 polymeric resin Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000000725 suspension Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229920001059 synthetic polymer Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 229920003002 synthetic resin Polymers 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B9/00—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation
- E04B9/06—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation characterised by constructional features of the supporting construction, e.g. cross section or material of framework members
- E04B9/061—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation characterised by constructional features of the supporting construction, e.g. cross section or material of framework members supporting construction for curved ceilings
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B9/00—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation
- E04B9/04—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation comprising slabs, panels, sheets or the like
- E04B9/0407—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation comprising slabs, panels, sheets or the like being stiff and curved
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B9/00—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation
- E04B9/04—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation comprising slabs, panels, sheets or the like
- E04B9/0414—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation comprising slabs, panels, sheets or the like being foldable, curvable or rollable
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B9/00—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation
- E04B9/06—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation characterised by constructional features of the supporting construction, e.g. cross section or material of framework members
- E04B9/10—Connections between parallel members of the supporting construction
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B9/00—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation
- E04B9/06—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation characterised by constructional features of the supporting construction, e.g. cross section or material of framework members
- E04B9/12—Connections between non-parallel members of the supporting construction
- E04B9/127—Connections between non-parallel members of the supporting construction one member being discontinuous and abutting against the other member
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B9/00—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation
- E04B9/22—Connection of slabs, panels, sheets or the like to the supporting construction
- E04B9/24—Connection of slabs, panels, sheets or the like to the supporting construction with the slabs, panels, sheets or the like positioned on the upperside of, or held against the underside of the horizontal flanges of the supporting construction or accessory means connected thereto
- E04B9/26—Connection of slabs, panels, sheets or the like to the supporting construction with the slabs, panels, sheets or the like positioned on the upperside of, or held against the underside of the horizontal flanges of the supporting construction or accessory means connected thereto by means of snap action of elastically deformable elements held against the underside of the supporting construction
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B9/00—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation
- E04B9/34—Grid-like or open-work ceilings, e.g. lattice type box-like modules, acoustic baffles
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B9/00—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation
- E04B9/34—Grid-like or open-work ceilings, e.g. lattice type box-like modules, acoustic baffles
- E04B9/345—Grid-like or open-work ceilings, e.g. lattice type box-like modules, acoustic baffles consisting of non-parallel slats, e.g. grids
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G09—EDUCATION; CRYPTOGRAPHY; DISPLAY; ADVERTISING; SEALS
- G09F—DISPLAYING; ADVERTISING; SIGNS; LABELS OR NAME-PLATES; SEALS
- G09F15/00—Boards, hoardings, pillars, or like structures for notices, placards, posters, or the like
- G09F15/0006—Boards, hoardings, pillars, or like structures for notices, placards, posters, or the like planar structures comprising one or more panels
- G09F15/0025—Boards, hoardings, pillars, or like structures for notices, placards, posters, or the like planar structures comprising one or more panels display surface tensioning means
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
- Finishing Walls (AREA)
- Connection Of Plates (AREA)
- Vehicle Interior And Exterior Ornaments, Soundproofing, And Insulation (AREA)
- Adhesives Or Adhesive Processes (AREA)
- Adornments (AREA)
- Walking Sticks, Umbrellas, And Fans (AREA)
- Holders For Apparel And Elements Relating To Apparel (AREA)
- Laminated Bodies (AREA)
- Curtains And Furnishings For Windows Or Doors (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates generally to a decorative structure and more particularly, to ceiling fixtures for suspension from a hard ceiling in an open plenum space.
- Traditional suspended ceiling structures formed from suspended grids of acoustically absorbent tiles are commonly found in commercial work spaces such as professional offices. While such structures provide a pleasant and acoustically absorbent space, designers and architects who desire to create the feel of an open loft space often object to the uniformity and lowered ceiling height created by conventional drop ceilings. Thus, more and more businesses are opting for so-called open plenum ceiling designs. In the open plenum, no suspended ceiling is provided that screens the entire hard deck ore hard ceiling along with the duct work, wiring and the like. Rather, these structural elements are exposed. Open plenum ceilings are more commonly found in retail stores and similar commercial settings, but also can be found in office spaces.
- In office spaces where open plenum ceilings are found, individual offices within the office space often are created using reconfigurable partitions that may be considerably lower than the hard ceiling. Whether in an office space or some other in-door space, the combination of an open plenum design with partitions that do not rise to the ceiling hard deck tends to leave the space unstructured and, consequently, less useful and aesthetically pleasing than it might otherwise be with some decorative structure that helps to define and differentiate the space.
- To differentiate a space and to create a more interesting visual in a loft style space or open plenum design, architects sometimes will specify that an open loft space be provided with customized decorative structures suspended from the ceiling to differentiate the space within the room. Such suspended decorative structures not only can delineate the space but also may dampen extraneous noise and create an interesting visual. Unfortunately, such decorative structures must be preformed into the desired shape, thus making them difficult to ship or mass produce. Consequently, such decorative structures tend to be made only as customized pieces. Such customization leads to considerable expense to fabricate such a suspended decorative structure and its framing.
- According to
DE 198 22 174 A1 a simple structure for the presentation of goods, particularly of sanitary engineering is to be provided. This structure has at least one flexible plate and means to flex this plate in order to present the goods in front of the concavely flexed plate. The means to flex the plate can comprise vertically extending cables connected to the lower and upper part of the plate which is held in its flexed upright condition by means of a frame-like structure. - According to
EP-A-1 113 118 A1 a suspended ceiling structure is to be provided combining practical advantages of ceilings from rigid plates with aesthetic advantages of ceilings comprising a tense textile sheet. The suspended ceiling structure comprises plate-like elements composed of a polygonal textile sheet with peripheral elements fixed to the corners of the textile sheet. From a set of two rods each one is stretched between two diametrically opposite corner elements thereby tensioning the textile sheet. By means of a pin connected to the rods at their crossing points and to the center of the textile sheet, the latter can yield a pyramidal shape. The plate-like elements are supported by inversed T-profiles of a ceiling grid suspended by brackets on the hard ceiling. -
DE 44 47 350 A1 discloses a suspended ceiling consisting of aluminum plates having a convex curvature if viewed from the room-side and which are suspended at their corners by means of wires fixed at the hard ceiling. - It is the object of the invention to provide a decorative structure that can be suspended within a space and that is structured such that its elements can be easily interchanged to provide a variety of configurations with basic elements some of which, at least, may be mass produced.
- This object is achieved with the decorative structure of claim 1 embodiments of which are subjects of subclaims 2 to 8.
- The present invention provides a decorative structure including a flexible panel maintained in a flexed configuration. The decorative structure comprises a flexible panel supported by a cable that is connected to a biasing member. The biasing member cooperates with a portion of the flexible panel so as to maintain the panel in a flexed configuration. The structure is suspended within an interior and/or exterior space by direct or indirect connection with a wall, ceiling, floor or other support structure. The cable may connect the biasing member to an opposed biasing member that also cooperates with the flexible panel. Alternatively, the biasing member may be connected to an opposed biasing member by a tensioned cable. The cable may be attached directly to the biasing member or indirectly to the biasing member with a fastener. In one embodiment, the cable may pass through a portion of the biasing member.
- In one embodiment, the decorative structure comprises a biasing member having a cam that cooperates with the flexible panel. The flexible panel may be indirectly supported by a cable that is connected to the biasing member. The biasing member may cooperate with an edge of the flexible panel so as to maintain the panel in a flexed configuration.
- In another embodiment, the biasing member comprises a jaw that receives a portion of the flexible panel. The jaw may be pivotal about a pivot point or joint.
- The decorative structure may comprise one or more flexible panels that are supported by the same cable or a plurality of panels supported by a plurality of cables. The flexible panels may be comprised of a range of materials such as, for example, metal, wood, paper, plastic and/or glass.
- The decorative structure is configured by providing a cable connecting a biasing member to an opposed biasing member; engaging the biasing member with a first portion of a flexible panel; engaging the opposed biasing member with a second portion of the flexible panel; and, adjusting the relative alignment of the biasing member and the opposed biasing member, optionally comprising the step of securing the alignment of the biasing member along the cable relative to the opposed biasing member, such as with an anchor connected to the biasing member and cooperating with the cable, and/or tensioning a cable connecting a biasing member to an opposed biasing member.
- These and other features of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings that are briefly described as follows.
-
Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a decorative structure embodying principles of the present invention. -
Fig. 2 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of the decorative structure ofFig. 1 . -
Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a biasing member for use in a decorative structure embodying principles of the present invention. -
Fig. 4 is a perspective view of another biasing member for use in a decorative structure of embodying principles of the present invention. -
Fig. 5 is a perspective view of a further biasing member for use in a decorative structure embodying principles of the present invention. -
Fig. 6 is a perspective view of yet another biasing member for use in a decorative structure embodying principles of the present invention. -
Fig. 7 is a side view of a portion of a decorative structure embodying principles of the present invention. -
Fig. 8 is a side view of the portion of the decorative structure shown inFig. 7 with the addition of a flexible panel. -
Fig. 9 is a side view of the portion of the decorative panel shown inFig. 8 width the decorative structure adjusted to a desired configuration. -
Fig. 10 is a perspective view of another decorative structure embodying principles of the present invention. -
Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a further decorative structure embodying principles of the present invention. -
Fig. 12 is a perspective view of yet another decorative structure embodying principles of the present invention. -
Fig. 13 is a perspective view of still a further decorative structure embodying principles of the present invention. - Referring now in greater detail to the figures, wherein like numerals refer to like parts throughout the drawings, the present invention generally includes a decorative structure comprising a flexible panel supported by a cable and maintained in a flexed configuration by a biasing member. The decorative structure provides a canopy-like visual element to a space in which it is suspended. The decorative structure may be easily installed and reconfigured to suit the user. The elements of the decorative structure may be interchanged in order to provide different visual and aesthetic impact. The flexible panel may be provide in a variety of shapes, materials and finishes. The flexible panel may be formed of wood, paper, metal, plastic, glass or any other suitable material. The panel may be solid, mesh or include a variety of decorative designs or openings therein to provide the desired visual impact.
- A
decorative structure 100a is shown inFig. 1 . Thedecorative structure 100a includes aflexible panel 20 having afirst edge 24 and asecond edge 22. Thedecorative structure 100a also includescables 30 connected to biasingmembers flexible panel 20.Cables 30 are connected to the ceiling, walls or some other suitable structure from which thedecorative structure 100a may be suspended.Biasing members 50a cooperate with a portion offlexible panel 20, such as, for example,first edge 24. Likewise, opposed biasingmembers 50b cooperate withsecond edge 22 offlexible panel 20. The cooperation of biasingmembers 50a withfirst edge 24 offlexible panel 20 and opposed biasingmembers 50b withsecond edge 22 provides support for the flexible panel and maintenance of theflexible panel 20 in a flexed configuration. Each biasingmember 50a is connected to an opposed biasingmember 50b by tensionedcable 34.Tensioned cable 34 provides a counter force through biasingmembers 50a and opposed biasingmembers 50b to theflexible panel 20 when it is in a flexed configuration. By employing tensionedcables 34 and biasingmembers 50a and opposed biasingmembers 50b, an otherwise flat butflexible panel 20 may be bowed to a desired configuration whendecorative structure 100a is installed. Therefore, production, shipping and handling of the elements of the decorative structure may prove easier than with a customized structure having a preformed curved configuration. - As shown in
Fig. 2 , alternative configurations forflexible panel 20 can be had. In this embodiment of the present invention, tensionedcables 34 are positioned below flexedpanel 20. As indecorative structure 100a,cables 30 are connected to biasingmembers 50a and opposed biasingmembers 50b, thereby at least indirectly supportingflexible panel 20, which cooperates with both biasingmember 50a and opposed biasingmembers 50b. Thus, the present invention encompasses flexible panels that can be configured concave and/or convex. -
Fig.3 shows a biasingmember 50 that embodies principles of the present invention. Biasingmember 50 includes abody 52 that has agroove 54 formed therein.Groove 54 includes amajor biasing surface 58. When an edge of a flexible panel is received bygroove 54major biasing surface 58 cooperates with a face of the flexible panel while the end surface 53 ofgroove 54 cooperates with an edge of the flexible panel so that the panel is biased in a predetermined direction. The flexible panel received bygroove 54 may include a notch (not shown) in an edge thereof that may receivecable 30, when a portion of the cable extends through thegroove 54 as shown inFigs. 3 and 4 . Biasingmember 50 is connected tocable 30, which supports both the biasing member and any panel that may be cooperating with the biasing member. As shown inFig. 3 ,support cable 30 may extend through thebody 52 of biasingmember 50, which includesapertures 56 that receive thecable 30.Apertures 56 may be formed in thebody 52 so thatcable 30 extends through a portion ofgroove 54, as shown inFig. 3 , or, alternatively, they may be formed such thatcable 30 does not extend throughgroove 54. The present invention encompasses decorative structures that include separate support and tensioned cables, as well as decorative structures that include cables that perform the function of both support and tensioning. As shown inFig. 3 ,cable 30 is connected to biasingmember 50 in such a manner as to both support the biasing member and tension a flexed panel that is received ingroove 54. Biasingmember 50 may be adjustably positioned along the length ofcable 30 by disengaginganchor 60 through whichcable 30 extends and to which biasingmember 50 is connected. In order to reposition biasingmember 50,anchor 60 is adjusted so as to at least partially disengage fromcable 30 so as to allow movement of bothanchor 60 and biasingmember 50 along the cable. Once biasingmember 50 is placed in the desired position,anchor 60 may be adjusted to reengagecable 30 so as to hold biasingmember 50 in place oncable 30. Biasingmember 50 may be made of any appropriate durable material such as metal or a polymeric resin.Cable 30 and/or tensionedcable 34 may also be made of any appropriate material, such as metal, synthetic or natural polymers. - As shown in
Fig. 4 , a biasingmember 150 may be provided with a decorative structure of the present invention so as to form an angle withincable 30.Biasing member 150 includes abody 152 that has anangled aperture 156 formed therein.Cable 30 is inserted throughaperture 156 so thatcable 30 is angled. Depending upon the desired configuration of the decorative structure of the present invention,angled channel 156 may be formed at any appropriate angle. Furthermore, the present invention encompasses other interconnections of the biasing member and cable so as to provide an angle along the cable. -
Fig. 5 shows yet another embodiment of a biasing member of the present invention.Biasing member 250 includes abody 252 generally formed as a cam.Cable 30 extends through a channel formed inbody 252 andanchor 60.Body 252 includes a major cam or biasingsurface 258 that cooperates with a portion of a flexible panel in order to bias the panel and maintain the panel in a flexed configuration. - The present invention also encompasses a decorative structure that includes a biasing member having a jaw.
Fig. 6 shows a biasingmember 350 that includes ajaw 355 extending from abody 352 thereof.Jaw 355 is connected by a neck 351 to a pivot joint 353 that allows for pivoting of thejaw 355. As with the other biasing members described above,jaw 355 includes a majorjaw biasing surface 358 that cooperates with a portion of a flexible panel to both bias the panel and maintain it in a flexed configuration.Biasing member 350 is connected to ananchor 60 so that biasingmember 350 may be adjustably positioned along the length ofcable 30. - In each of the embodiments of the biasing member of the present invention described above, a cable may extend through a portion of the body of the biasing member as shown in
Figs. 3-6 or, alternatively, one or more cables may be connected to the biasing member by other means. For example, an eyelet (not shown) may be fastened to or formed in the biasing member. The cable may be connected to the eyelet. These and other fasteners connecting the biasing member to the cable are contemplated by the present invention. - The present invention also encompasses a method for configuring a decorative structure. As shown in
Figs. 7-9 , the method comprises the steps of providing a biasingmember 50a connected to an opposed biasingmember 50b by acable 30, as shown inFig. 7 . The method further comprises engaging a portion of aflexible panel 20 with the biasingmember 50a and engaging another portion of the flexible panel with the opposed biasingmember 50b. For example, afirst edge 22a of aflexible panel 20 may be inserted intogroove 54a of biasingmember 50a and asecond edge 22b offlexible panel 20 may be inserted into agroove 54b of opposed biasingmember 50b. If the biasing member and/or the opposed biasing member includes a jaw or a cam, then an edge or other portion of the flexible panel of the decorative structure may be inserted in the jaw or aligned adjacent the cam in order to accomplish these step. The alignment of the biasing member relative to the opposed biasing member then may be adjusted to bend the flexible panel into the desired flexed configuration. For instance, as indicated inFig. 9 , biasingmember 50a and/or biasingmember 50b may be moved alongcable 30 thereby altering the extent of flexure offlexible panel 20. When the desired configuration is achieved, the method may then include securing the biasing member and the opposed biasing member relative to the cable. For example, theanchors members cable 30 as the biasing members are repositioned and then reengaged with the cable when the desired alignment is achieved. The method may also include tensioning the cable in order to provide proper alignment of the biasing member relative to the opposed biasing member. - As shown in
Figs. 10-13 , the decorative structures of the present invention may include a variety of configurations and materials. For example, as shown inFig. 11 , twocables 30 may be aligned in parallel and a plurality offlexible panels 20 and biasingmembers 50 may be arranged thereon. In such a configuration,cables 30 serve both to supportflexible panels 20 and provide the necessary tensioned counter force through the biasing members to maintain theflexible panels 20 in their respective flexed configurations. It is contemplated that a plurality of decorative structures may be provided in a given space and/or a decorative structure may include a plurality of configured flexible panels. - The decorative structure of the present invention also may provide hinged access to the space above the structure without completely disassemblying the structure. The panel may be hingedly or pivotaly rotated by loosening the anchors connected to one or more of the biasing members that engage a given panel. For example, in the case of decorative structure shown in
Fig. 13 , the anchors connected to biasingmembers 50b may be loosened so that the biasing members may be moved along thecables 30. Movement of the biasingmembers 50b will allow the panel 20a to be disengaged therefrom. The panel may then be rotated upward about an axis extending through biasingmembers 50a so that the space above the decorative structure may be accessed without removing portions of the structure. - As is shown in the figures, the ends of the flexible panel may be positioned at different heights and orientations relative to each other in order to provide a wide variety of visual and acoustical results.
- Furthermore, the decorative structures of the present invention may be used in conjunction with a light source in order to illuminate the space in which the structure is suspended. The light may be integrally formed with the decorative structure, such as being supported by one or more of the structures cables, or be positioned adjacent the structure in order for the flexible panel to act as a reflector, diffuser or shade for a slight source.
Claims (8)
- A decorative structure (100a, 100b) comprising:- a flexible panel (20), and- biasing members (50a, 50b) connected by a tensioned cable (30, 34) and cooperating with opposed portions of the flexible panel (20), wherein the flexible panel (20) is maintained in a flexed configuration,
characterized by- a cable (30) connected to the biasing members (50a, 50b) and supporting the flexible panel (20) so as to provide a canopy-like element. - The decorative structure of claim 1, characterized in that the biasing member (50a, 50b) comprises a body (52) having a groove (54) receiving the portion of the flexible panel (20).
- The decorative structure of claim 1, characterized in that the cable (30) extends through a portion of the biasing member (50a, 50b).
- The decorative structure of claim 3 characterized in that the biasing member (50a, 50b) forms an angle in the cable (30).
- The decorative structure of claim 1, characterized in that the biasing member (50a, 50b) comprises a cam cooperating with the flexible panel (20).
- The decorative structure of claim 1, characterized in that the biasing member (50a, 50b) comprises a jaw (355) cooperating with the flexible panel (20).
- The decorative structure of claim 5, characterized in that the jaw (355) is pivotable about a pivot joint (353).
- The decorative structure of claim 1, wherein said flexible panel (20) is formed of a material selected from metal, wood, fabric and plastic.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US30651601P | 2001-07-19 | 2001-07-19 | |
US306516P | 2001-07-19 | ||
PCT/US2002/023040 WO2003008729A1 (en) | 2001-07-19 | 2002-07-19 | Canopy-like decorative structure |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP1409807A1 EP1409807A1 (en) | 2004-04-21 |
EP1409807B1 true EP1409807B1 (en) | 2009-04-29 |
Family
ID=23185651
Family Applications (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP02750189A Expired - Lifetime EP1409807B1 (en) | 2001-07-19 | 2002-07-19 | Canopy-like decorative structure |
EP02765856A Expired - Lifetime EP1421285B1 (en) | 2001-07-19 | 2002-07-19 | Clipped decorative structure |
EP02750169A Withdrawn EP1425482A1 (en) | 2001-07-19 | 2002-07-19 | Decorative structure and ceiling system |
Family Applications After (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP02765856A Expired - Lifetime EP1421285B1 (en) | 2001-07-19 | 2002-07-19 | Clipped decorative structure |
EP02750169A Withdrawn EP1425482A1 (en) | 2001-07-19 | 2002-07-19 | Decorative structure and ceiling system |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (3) | EP1409807B1 (en) |
AT (2) | ATE347041T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU2002329616A1 (en) |
DE (2) | DE60232150D1 (en) |
WO (3) | WO2003008729A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7406802B2 (en) | 2003-03-19 | 2008-08-05 | Awi Licensing Company | Panel structures and mounting therefore |
US20100095606A1 (en) * | 2008-10-16 | 2010-04-22 | Usg Interiors, Inc. | Faceted metal suspended ceiling |
JP2012013307A (en) * | 2010-06-30 | 2012-01-19 | Toyox Co Ltd | Ceiling panel, air conditioning unit, and air conditioning system |
US9677288B2 (en) * | 2014-04-23 | 2017-06-13 | Enlighten Luminaires LLC | Curvilinear drop ceiling LED lighting panel |
CN103981994B (en) * | 2014-05-26 | 2016-06-22 | 苏州设计研究院股份有限公司 | A kind of arched ceiling structure |
CN112482646B (en) * | 2020-12-02 | 2022-03-15 | 北京建院装饰工程设计有限公司 | Mounting structure and mounting method of GRG plate top suspended ceiling |
Family Cites Families (18)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US1826133A (en) * | 1930-05-09 | 1931-10-06 | Union Steel Prod Co | Structural device |
US2998112A (en) * | 1958-04-14 | 1961-08-29 | Kermit H Burgin | Demountable building inner liner |
FR1232421A (en) * | 1959-04-21 | 1960-10-07 | Roclaine | Method and device for suspending an insulating sub-roof from the roof of a building |
US3601033A (en) * | 1969-09-04 | 1971-08-24 | Air Factors | Air diffuser assembly with integral air return |
DK133480B (en) * | 1973-08-29 | 1976-05-24 | Finn Andersen | Underroft. |
US3875717A (en) * | 1973-08-30 | 1975-04-08 | Wolfgang Moeller | Unitary device for joining removable ceiling tile to hanger member |
AU566622B2 (en) * | 1983-01-21 | 1987-10-22 | Intalite International N.V. | Clip for suspended ceiling |
US4744188A (en) * | 1987-05-15 | 1988-05-17 | Donn Incorporated | Suspended island ceiling system |
DE4447350A1 (en) * | 1994-10-06 | 1996-04-11 | Dee Kristen Architect Bdia | Aluminium plate, or ellipse, suspension ceiling |
DE29601609U1 (en) * | 1996-01-31 | 1996-04-25 | Kiskalt Doris | Decoration |
US5619816A (en) * | 1996-02-26 | 1997-04-15 | Ellison; Hillary | Free-standing display frame |
AT404225B (en) * | 1996-03-29 | 1998-09-25 | Bruckner Johannes | ARCH TENSION FRAME |
DE29720309U1 (en) * | 1997-11-15 | 1998-01-29 | Msr Roentgenraumtechnische Sys | Carrying and fastening device for a suspended ceiling |
DE29804460U1 (en) * | 1998-03-12 | 1999-07-29 | Dell | Advertising media |
DE19822174A1 (en) * | 1998-05-16 | 1999-11-18 | Georg Boesl | Display stand with flexible wall, and vertical tensioning pieces |
US6047512A (en) * | 1998-10-21 | 2000-04-11 | Usg Interiors, Inc. | Drywall suspension grid system |
FR2802952B1 (en) * | 1999-12-28 | 2002-03-15 | Ferrari S Tissage & Enduct Sa | SLAB FOR MOUNTING ON A CHASSIS CARRYING A FALSE CEILING STRUCTURE |
US6374564B1 (en) * | 2000-05-31 | 2002-04-23 | Usg Interiors, Inc. | Suspended curved ceiling system |
-
2002
- 2002-07-19 EP EP02750189A patent/EP1409807B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2002-07-19 EP EP02765856A patent/EP1421285B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2002-07-19 AT AT02765856T patent/ATE347041T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2002-07-19 WO PCT/US2002/023040 patent/WO2003008729A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2002-07-19 AU AU2002329616A patent/AU2002329616A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2002-07-19 DE DE60232150T patent/DE60232150D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2002-07-19 WO PCT/US2002/022945 patent/WO2003008812A2/en active IP Right Grant
- 2002-07-19 WO PCT/US2002/022947 patent/WO2003008728A1/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2002-07-19 AT AT02750189T patent/ATE430229T1/en not_active IP Right Cessation
- 2002-07-19 DE DE60216479T patent/DE60216479T2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2002-07-19 EP EP02750169A patent/EP1425482A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE60216479D1 (en) | 2007-01-11 |
WO2003008729A1 (en) | 2003-01-30 |
WO2003008812A2 (en) | 2003-01-30 |
ATE430229T1 (en) | 2009-05-15 |
DE60216479T2 (en) | 2007-09-20 |
WO2003008812A9 (en) | 2004-04-15 |
AU2002329616A1 (en) | 2003-03-03 |
EP1409807A1 (en) | 2004-04-21 |
DE60232150D1 (en) | 2009-06-10 |
EP1425482A1 (en) | 2004-06-09 |
ATE347041T1 (en) | 2006-12-15 |
WO2003008728A9 (en) | 2003-04-10 |
EP1421285B1 (en) | 2006-11-29 |
WO2003008812A3 (en) | 2003-04-03 |
EP1421285A2 (en) | 2004-05-26 |
WO2003008728A1 (en) | 2003-01-30 |
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