EP1534903A1 - Systeme de plafond a technologie - Google Patents

Systeme de plafond a technologie

Info

Publication number
EP1534903A1
EP1534903A1 EP03752023A EP03752023A EP1534903A1 EP 1534903 A1 EP1534903 A1 EP 1534903A1 EP 03752023 A EP03752023 A EP 03752023A EP 03752023 A EP03752023 A EP 03752023A EP 1534903 A1 EP1534903 A1 EP 1534903A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
accordance
ceiling system
ceiling
shielding elements
elements
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP03752023A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP1534903A4 (fr
Inventor
Sheila Kennedy
Bill Chen-Hsun Yen
Joseph Chi-Chen Ho
Senan Choe
Waltraud Beckmann
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
MillerKnoll Inc
Original Assignee
Herman Miller Inc
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 Herman Miller Inc filed Critical Herman Miller Inc
Publication of EP1534903A1 publication Critical patent/EP1534903A1/fr
Publication of EP1534903A4 publication Critical patent/EP1534903A4/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • 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
    • E04B9/064—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 comprising extruded supporting beams
    • 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
    • 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
    • E04B9/006—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation with means for hanging lighting fixtures or other appliances to the framework of the ceiling
    • 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
    • E04B9/18—Means for suspending 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
    • E04B9/22—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
    • E04B9/245—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 screws, bolts or clamping strips 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
    • E04B9/32—Translucent ceilings, i.e. permitting both the transmission and diffusion of light
    • 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
    • E04B9/36—Grid-like or open-work ceilings, e.g. lattice type box-like modules, acoustic baffles consisting of parallel slats
    • E04B9/366—Grid-like or open-work ceilings, e.g. lattice type box-like modules, acoustic baffles consisting of parallel slats the principal plane of the slats being vertical
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21S—NON-PORTABLE LIGHTING DEVICES; SYSTEMS THEREOF; VEHICLE LIGHTING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLE EXTERIORS
    • F21S2/00—Systems of lighting devices, not provided for in main groups F21S4/00 - F21S10/00 or F21S19/00, e.g. of modular construction
    • F21S2/005—Systems of lighting devices, not provided for in main groups F21S4/00 - F21S10/00 or F21S19/00, e.g. of modular construction of modular construction
    • 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
    • F21V1/00—Shades for light sources, i.e. lampshades for table, floor, wall or ceiling lamps
    • F21V1/14—Covers for frames; Frameless shades
    • 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
    • F21V11/00—Screens not covered by groups F21V1/00, F21V3/00, F21V7/00 or F21V9/00
    • 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
    • F21V33/00—Structural combinations of lighting devices with other articles, not otherwise provided for
    • F21V33/006—General building constructions or finishing work for buildings, e.g. roofs, gutters, stairs or floors; Garden equipment; Sunshades or parasols
    • 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
    • F21V23/04—Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches
    • F21V23/0435—Arrangement of electric circuit elements in or on lighting devices the elements being switches activated by remote control means
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2103/00—Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes
    • F21Y2103/10—Elongate light sources, e.g. fluorescent tubes comprising a linear array of point-like light-generating elements
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2105/00—Planar light sources
    • F21Y2105/10—Planar light sources comprising a two-dimensional array of point-like light-generating elements
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2113/00—Combination of light sources
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F21—LIGHTING
    • F21Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES F21K, F21L, F21S and F21V, RELATING TO THE FORM OR THE KIND OF THE LIGHT SOURCES OR OF THE COLOUR OF THE LIGHT EMITTED
    • F21Y2115/00—Light-generating elements of semiconductor light sources
    • F21Y2115/10—Light-emitting diodes [LED]

Definitions

  • the invention relates to overhead systems for architectural interiors and, more particularly, to a system of supported shields which permit the use of LED and other lighting elements with selectable materials surrounding the lighting elements in various configurations, so as to provide desired degrees of translucence, light intensity, texture and diffusion.
  • architectural infrastructure continue to evolve in today's commercial, industrial, residential and office environments.
  • architectural interiors shall be used to collectively designate these environments.
  • interiors often consisted of large rooms with fixed walls, ceilings and doors.
  • Architectural interiors would often include large and heavy desks, worktables, machinery, assembly lines or the like, depending upon the particular environment. Lighting, heating and cooling (if any) functions were often centrally controlled.
  • privacy for face-to-face or telephone conversations, meetings or other commercial interior activities was difficult to achieve.
  • ceiling structures typically do not address issues associated with ceiling structures, such as interchangeability, lighting, acoustical properties and the like.
  • architects and designers are beginning to look at various types of new designs for purposes of enhancing acoustical properties, lighting efficiency and aesthetics.
  • Numerous types of ceiling structures are known in the prior art which are particularly directed to acoustical properties.
  • One well known ceiling structure is the Armstrong drop ceiling, utilizing opaque ceiling shielding elements modularly supported within a T-bar structure. These ceilings are manufactured by Armstrong World Industries, Inc. Such structures have to accommodate ceiling lighting (if desired), HVAC ducts, fire sprinklers and similar environmental and safety systems.
  • architects and designers have introduced "open" architecture ceilings that expose structure, even in commercial and office environments.
  • Lighting associated with such structures also has the same problems with respect to potential need for change. Also, when ceiling systems are first designed by the designers, architects and engineers, it may be several years before the building is actually commissioned and tenants occupy the building. At that time, the needs of the tenants may be relatively diverse from the designer's original lighting schema. Further, lighting needs may vary for different functions. However, most known ceiling lighting structures are relatively constant with respect to their light intensity, and the diffusion which may be associated with the lighting. It would be advantageous to have means for varying the light intensity, color, texture and diffusion associated with the lighting. Other issues also arise with respect to ceiling structures. For example, safety concerns are of primary importance. Fire protection and other building codes may require materials from which ceiling structures are constructed to be treated with fire retardant or fire resistant materials. In addition, the ceiling structure materials themselves may be constructed of fireproof or fire resistant elements.
  • ceilings have weight, bulk and other size parameters which are clearly unnecessary for their desired functionality. Their cost is significant. This cost occurs not only from initial acquisition prices, but also, as a result of their lack of true flexibility, from costs associated with moving or reconfiguring the ceiling systems. Also, in part, additional costs result from the fact that reconfiguration of such ceiling systems often results in wastes of component parts. In this same regard, many component parts of known systems are not reusable when disassembled.
  • known ceiling systems for many reasons (including those previously stated herein), do not lend themselves to any type of "rapid" reconfiguration. In fact, they may require a significant amount of work to reconfigure. This work often requires use of trained specialists. Also, reconfiguration of known ceiling systems may involve additional physical wiring or substantial rewiring for their lighting. Different trained specialists may be required when the reconfiguration in any manner involves such electrical or data/communications components. Still further, although these ceiling systems may involve lighting controllable by a workspace user, many environmental functions remain centrally controlled, often in locations substantially remote from the architectural interior being controlled.
  • Ceiling systems may be structurally designed by designers, architects and engineers, and initially laid out in a desired format with respect to support, lighting fixtures and other functional accessories.
  • these structures which can be characterized as somewhat “permanent” in most buildings (as described in previous paragraphs herein), are designed, the actual occupants may not move into the building for several years.
  • HVAC heating, ventilation and air conditioning
  • a ceiling system can be characterized as being “delivered” to original occupants in a particular "initial state.” This initial state is defined by not only the physical locations of functional accessories, but also the control relationships among switches, lights and the like. It would be advantageous to provide means for essentially "changing" the relationships in a relatively rapid manner, without requiring physical rewiring or similar activities.
  • Jones et al. U.S. Pat No. 3,996,458, issued December 7, 1976, is primarily directed to an illuminated ceiling structure and associated components, with the components being adapted to varying requirements of structure and appearance.
  • Jones et al. disclose the concept that the use of inverted T-bar grids for supporting pluralities of pre-formed integral shielding elements in well known.
  • Jones et al. further disclose the use of T-bar runners having a vertical orientation, with T-bar cross members. The runners and cross members are supported by hangers, in a manner so as to provide an open space or plenum thereabove in which lighting fixtures may be provided.
  • Balinski U.S. Pat No. 4,034,531, issued July 12, 1977 is directed to a suspended ceiling system having a particular support arrangement.
  • the support arrangement is disclosed as overcoming a deficiency in prior art systems, whereby exposure to heat causes T-runners to expand and deform, with ceiling tiles thus falling from the T-runners as a result of the deformation.
  • the Balinski ceiling system employs support wires attached to its supporting structure. The support wires hold inverted T-runners, which may employ enlarged upper portions for stiffening the runners.
  • An exposed flange provides a decorative surface underneath the T-runners.
  • a particular flange disclosed by Balinski includes a longitudinally extending groove on the underneath portion, so as to create a shadow effect.
  • Ceiling tiles are supported on the inverted T-runners and may include a cut up portion, so as to enable the bottom surface to be flush with the bottom surface of the exposed flange.
  • the inverted ⁇ T-runners are connected to one another through the use of flanges.
  • the flanges provide for one end of one inverted T-runner to engage a slot in a second T-runner.
  • the inverted T-runners are connected to the decorative flanges through the use of slots within the tops of the decorative flanges, with the slots having a generally triangular cross-section and with the inverted T-runners having their bottom cross members comprising opposing ends formed over the exposed flange.
  • the inverted T-runners engage the tops of the exposed flanges in a supporting configuration.
  • Balinski also shows each decorative exposed flange as being hollow and comprising a U-shaped member, with opposing ends bent outwardly and upwardly, and then inwardly and outwardly of the extreme end portions. In this matter, engagement is provided by the ends of the inverted T-runner cross members.
  • Balinski discloses inverted T-runners supporting ceiling structures.
  • Balinski et al. U.S. Pat No. 4,063,391, issued December 20, 1977, shows the use of support runners for suspended grid systems.
  • Each support runner includes a spline member.
  • An inverted T-runner is engaged to the spline, in a manner so that when the ceiling system is exposed to heat, the inverted T-runner continues to hold the ceiling shielding elements even, although the spline loses structural integrity and may disengage from the trim.
  • U.S. Pat No. 4,074,092, issued February 14, 1978 discloses a power track system for carrying light fixtures and a light source.
  • the system includes a U-shaped supporting rail, with limbs of the same being inwardly bent.
  • An insulating lining fits into the rail, and includes at least one current conductor.
  • a grounding member is connected to the ends of the rail limbs, and a second current conductor is mounted on an ⁇ xternally inaccessible portion of the lining that faces inwardly of the rail.
  • Botty U.S. Pat No. 4,533,190, issued August 6, 1985, describes an electrical power track system having an elongated track with a series of longitudinal slots opening outwardly.
  • the slots provide access to a series of offset electrical conductors or bus bars.
  • the slots are shaped in a manner so as to prevent straight-in access to the conductors carried by the track.
  • a bus bar assembly includes power bus bar conductors.
  • a ceiling system for use with a supporting infrastructure.
  • the supporting infrastructure provides for distribution of electrical power and for a communications network, and comprises a plurality of frames and cross frames. More specifically, the ceiling system includes a plurality of shielding elements supported within the frames and cross frames. A series of lighting elements are electrically coupled and energized through the electrical power distribution. The lighting elements are adjacent to or otherwise incorporated within the shielding elements.
  • the shielding elements are movably mounted to the supporting infrastructure, and are constructed of materials which may be of varying degrees of translucence. In this manner, intensity, color and diffusion of lighting projected from the lighting elements may be adjusted.
  • the ceiling system and the supporting infrastructure can be suspended from a building roof or similar overhead structure through the use of cable elements.
  • the cable elements may be adjusted so as to adjust the height of the supporting infrastructure and, therefore, the mounted ceiling system.
  • means can be provided for adjusting the position of the ceiling system relative to the supporting infrastructure.
  • the ceiling system materials are constructed and configured so as to permit commercial interior utilities to extend downwardly below a plane substantially formed by the series of shielding elements.
  • the series of lighting elements and the plurality of shielding elements are manually removable from the supporting infrastructure. More specifically, the series of lighting elements may comprise a series of LED module lighting strips. Further, the lighting elements may include other types of lighting, such as fluorescent, metal halide or similar lighting elements.
  • the supporting infrastructure comprises parallel and spaced apart rails, and the shielding elements are supported on sides of adjacent rails on pairs of opposing L-shaped brackets.
  • the shielding elements are releasably secured to the L-shaped brackets through securing means.
  • the panels comprise solid infill panels, they can comprise acoustic ceiling shielding elements having materials for providing sound absorption.
  • the shielding elements may comprise air-filled cellular structures. Further, the shielding elements may comprise 3D-Pongi fabric. In another embodiment in accordance with the invention, the shielding elements may comprise rigid fins. Still further, the shielding elements may comprise heliofon fabric fins.
  • the shielding elements may be supported on opposing lateral sides through the use of a frame of the supporting infrastructure.
  • the frame may be constructed of a variety of materials, including extruded aluminum.
  • the shielding elements may be supported from overhead building supports through the use of suspension cables interconnected directly to the shielding elements. These suspension cables may be adjustable in length.
  • he cross frames may be interconnected to other components of the ceiling system through the use of brackets.
  • a plurality of members may be positioned in a spaced apart and parallel configuration along the shielding elements.
  • the lighting elements can comprise LED lighting modules mounted on undersides of the members.
  • the shielding elements can comprise a series of light bags having varying degrees of translucency. The light bags can provide modifications to light intensity and varying degrees of translucency and diffusion with respect to the LED lighting modules or other, lighting elements.
  • each of the members may be elongated in length and laterally extend across at least one of the shielding elements.
  • Each of the LED lighting modules may be linear in configuration, and mounted to an underside of a corresponding one of the members.
  • each of the lighting modules may include a series of LED's spaced apart along a length of a corresponding one of the lighting modules.
  • a plurality of the LED lighting modules may be coupled to at least one of the members.
  • the lighting elements may comprise linear LED lighting modules flexible in construction.
  • Low voltage DC power may be applied from the electrical power distribution of the supporting infrastructure.
  • the ceiling system may comprise power transformers interconnected to the distribution of electrical power and to the lighting elements for supplying low voltage DC power to the lighting elements.
  • the ceiling system may comprise at least one bus bar for supplying low voltage DC power to the lighting elements.
  • the shielding elements may comprise light diffusing fabric fins, in association with light bags.
  • the lighting elements can include a series of LED members, with each member having a linear LED lighting module secured to an underside thereof.
  • Each of the linear LED lighting modules can comprise a series of spaced apart LED lights.
  • a series of the light bags are suspended from the members.
  • the light bags may comprise light diffusion heliofon fabric.
  • the shielding elements may comprise light diffusing fabric fins.
  • the light diffusing fabric fins may be in the form of singular light sheets. Further, the light sheets may comprise light diffusing heliofon fabric.
  • the shielding elements may comprise rigid fins having a "deep triangle" configuration. Still further, the rigid fins may be constructed of translucent Lexan® material. The term Lexan® is a registered trademark of the General Electric Company.
  • the shielding elements may also comprise a pair of relatively long rigid fins, essentially forming a rectangular configuration. A rigid fin of relatively shorter length may be positioned intermediate the two rigid fins. The relatively long rigid fins and the rigid fins of relatively shorter lengths may separate a series of linear LED lighting modules from each other. The relatively long rigid fins and the rigid fins of relatively shorter length may be constructed of a translucent Lexan® material.
  • the shielding elements may comprise a series of rigid fins forming a rectangular configuration around individual ones of the linear LED lighting modules.
  • the linear LED lighting modules may be turned on their sides, so that strips of individual LED's have different directional configurations.
  • the rigid fins may be constructed of a translucent Lexan® material.
  • the shielding elements may comprise a series of parallel and spaced apart linear air tubes.
  • the lighting elements may comprise linear LED lighting modules spaced intermediate the linear air tubes.
  • the linear air tubes may be constructed of a polyethylene material.
  • the lighting elements may comprise a series of round marker LED lighting modules. The round marker LED lighting modules may be positioned adjacent the linear air tubes.
  • the shielding elements may comprise a series of air pillows.
  • the lighting elements may then comprise a series of round marker LED lighting modules positioned
  • the air pillows may be constructed of a polyethylene material.
  • the shielding elements may comprise a series of woven fabric materials.
  • the woven fabric materials may be suspended from the supporting infrastructure in a manner so as to provide a "wave" pattern.
  • the lighting elements may comprise a series of LED lighting modules positioned above the woven fabric materials.
  • the ceiling system may comprise means for circulating forced air around the fabric materials.
  • the woven fabric materials may than be coupled to the supporting infrastructure in a manner so as to permit generation of "pulsing" curvatures of the woven fabric materials in response to the circulating forced air.
  • the shielding elements may be coupled to the supporting infrastructure through flexible or hinged means. In this manner, the shielding elements may be suspended in varying angular orientations.
  • the ceiling system can comprise a set of utilitarian elements associated with the ceilings. At least certain of the utilitarian elements may be manually releasable from the shielding ⁇ elements.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective, diagrammatic illustration of a ceiling system located above a particular spatial area having various functions
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a series of shielding elements in accordance with the invention, suspended from a rail system;
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective view of shielding elements similar to FIG. 2, but with the shielding elements being suspended from cables;
  • FIG. 4 is a section view of FIG. 2, illustrating certain aspects of the LED lighting and ceiling, with the concept that single or a plurality of LED's may be utilized for possible color changing or the like;
  • FIG. 5 is a section view of FIG. 2, showing the cable suspensions and further showing aspects of the LED lighting and ceiling;
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective of ceiling components in accordance with the invention, and comprising what is characterized as an LED or member having a linear LED lighting module associated therewith;
  • FIG. 7 is a perspective view similar in scope to FIG. 6, but showing the use of a pair of linear LED lighting modules with the LED member;
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective view similar in scope to FIGS. 6 and 7, but showing the use of the LED member with three linear LED lighting modules;
  • FIG. 9 is an underside view of the LED member of FIG. 8;
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a generally elevational view of a linear LED lighting module, detached from the LED member
  • FIG. 11 is a side elevation cross section similar in scope to FIG. 4, but showing the use of a power transformer
  • FIG. 11A is a sectional end view of the LED lighting module and connector elements associated therewith, taken along section lines 11A-11A of FIG. 11 ;
  • FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention, showing the combination of the actual shields and the LED lighting modules;
  • FIG. 13 is a cross sectional view of the first embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12;
  • FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 15 is a cross sectional view of the ceiling embodiment illustrated in FIG. 14;
  • FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 17 is a cross sectional view of the ceiling configuration illustrated in FIG.
  • FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 19 is a cross sectional view of the ceiling configuration illustrated in FIG.
  • FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 21 is a cross sectional view of the ceiling configuration illustrated in FIG. 20;
  • FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 23 is a cross sectional view of the ceiling configuration illustrated in FIG. 22;
  • FIG. 23A is an enlarged portion of the cross sectional view illustrated in FIG. 23;
  • FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a seventh alternative embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 25 is a cross sectional view of the ceiling configuration illustrated in FIG. 24, with marker lights being shown;
  • FIG. 25A is an enlarged portion of the cross sectional view illustrated in FIG. 24;
  • FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an eighth alternative embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 27 is a cross sectional view of the ceiling configuration illustrated in FIG.
  • FIG. 27 A is an enlarged view of the cross section illustrated in FIG. 27;
  • FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a ninth alternative embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 29 is an underside view of the ceiling configuration illustrated in FIG. 28, and showing details of the fabric;
  • FIG. 30 is a cross sectional view of the ceiling configuration of FIG. 28, illustrating the support structure for the same;
  • FIG. 31 is a perspective view of an orientation of shielding elements which may be utilized in accordance with the invention
  • FIG. 32 is an perspective view of an alternative embodiment of an orientation of shielding elements which may be utilized in accordance with the invention.
  • FIG. 33 illustrates the use of one of the embodiments of the ceiling configuration, utilized in combination with a dimmer control switch
  • FIG. 33A is an elevation view of an example dimmer control switch
  • FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a user exhibiting manual manipulation of a control wand for purposes of controlling the LED lighting modules of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention
  • FIG. 35 is a perspective view of a user exhibiting manual manipulation of the control wand, for purposes of controlling functional relationships between a dimmer control switch and a ceiling configuration;
  • FIG. 36 is a perspective view of a control wand which may be utilized for the purposes illustrated in FIGS. 34 and 35;
  • FIG. 37 is an elevation view of the control wand illustrated in FIG. 36.
  • FIG. 38 is an end view of one end of the wand illustrated in FIGS. 36 and 37.
  • FIG. 1 illustrates a general layout of the ceiling system 100 as it may be utilized above a workplace 102.
  • the ceiling system 100 in accordance with the invention provides for an open system to physically change a family of products, including the capability of relocation.
  • digital control and digital programming is also provided for the ceiling system 100. This control is utilized to undertake activities such as to change the ceiling system appearance for purposes such as personal design, identity of a particular group, personalization by color change, digital imaging, and projection of images.
  • the ceiling system 100 may be linked to a digital programming network.
  • ceiling systems in accordance with the invention provide for interchangeable shielding elements and interchangeability of other parts, which is essentially
  • the system can also be fabricated in a relatively efficient manner, with support being provided by frames for the shielding elements. Because of the configuration of ceiling systems in accordance with the invention, relatively larger shielding elements can be utilized. In this regard, the shielding elements can be constructed of compressed polyester fiber material. In the same regard, changes can be made to occur based on external environmental characteristics, such as the color of the sky and time of day. Changes in light may also be provided in accordance with the ceiling system during different seasons and the like. It is well known that lighting changes can be beneficial for the health and well being of individuals working under certain lighting structures.
  • ceiling systems in accordance with the invention take advantage of advancements in semiconductors and miniaturization of electronic components. That is, ceiling systems in accordance with the invention provide for a harnessing of solid state technology to architectural activities. These advancements in technologies have resulted in changes in the way we work, and it is advantageous for ceiling systems to take advantage of such new work habits.
  • the workplace 102 may include a series of conference tables 104 and chairs 106.
  • the ceiling system 100 may be utilized in any of variously configured commercial interiors.
  • the ceiling system 100 may include a series of shielding elements 108 supported in any convenient manner through the use of frames 110 and cross frames 112.
  • the ceiling system 100 may be suspended from a building roof or similar overhead structure (not shown) through the use of suspension cables 114 or comparable elements.
  • the ceiling system 100 and its various embodiments, may employ LED (and other) lighting elements, with selectable materials surrounding lighting elements so as to provide varying degrees of translucence.
  • the materials may be constructed and configured so as to accommodate additional utilities (e.g.
  • the ceiling configurations described herein in accordance with the invention provide a ceiling plane, with lighting elements and materials that are moveably mountable to the ceiling plane.
  • the materials have varying degrees of translucence so as to adjust intensity and diffusion of light projected from the ceiling plane.
  • the ceiling system 100 and its various embodiments may employ lighting elements other than LED elements.
  • lighting elements such as fluorescent lighting, metal halide lighting and various other types of lighting may be employed, without departing from the principal concepts of the invention.
  • the materials of the ceiling system 100 may be constructed so as to accommodate additional utilities below a ceiling plane, with the utilities including sprinklers and the like.
  • the materials of which the ceiling system 100 is constructed may have sufficient openings or porosity so as to permit utilities such as sprinklers and the like to be maintained above a ceiling plane formed by these materials of the ceiling system 100.
  • many building codes provide that sprinklers and the like may be accommodated above the ceiling plane, if the plane exhibits total porosity openings of 70% or more.
  • Permeating throughout the inventive concepts of the ceiling system 100 are the issues associated with what may be characterized as "anticipatory design" or flexibility. That is, at the time that a designer may complete a structural and functional design for a commercial interior (including not only wall structures, but also locations of ceiling shielding elements, electrical fixtures, data nodes, communication outlets and the like), it may be several years before particular tenants occupy the structure. Between the time of the design completion and the time the particular tenants wish to occupy the structure, the prospective tenants' needs may be substantially different from the designers' anticipatory ideas. However, most commercial interior structures permit little reconfiguration of architectural elements and structure, after completion of an initial design. Reconfiguring a structure for the needs of a particular tenant can be extremely expensive and time consuming.
  • the commercial interior is essentially "down" and provides no positive cash flow to the structure's owner.
  • the ceiling system 100 in accordance with the invention, reconfiguration is facilitated, both with respect to expense and time.
  • the architectural interior can be reconfigured in "real time.”
  • functional or "control" relationships can be readily modified amorig various switch and lighting components.
  • alteration can occur with respect to aesthetic appearance.
  • FIG. 2 a perspective view is shown of a. pair of shielding elements 1 16 which are supported through the use of a rail system which may comprise a pair of parallel and spaced apart rails 118.
  • a rail system which may comprise a pair of parallel and spaced apart rails 118.
  • An exemplary embodiment of a rail system having rails such as rails 118 which may be employed with the shielding elements 116 is described in commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/408,149, entitled “Rail System” and filed on September 4, 2002.
  • the rails 118 themselves may be suspended through the use of suspension cables or support rods 121 to overhead building supports (not shown).
  • the shielding elements 1 16 may include coverings 120, examples of which are described in subsequent paragraphs herein.
  • the coverings 120 may provide various translucence for a series of LED lighting module strips 122 and other types of lighting elements. Such LED lighting module strips 122 will also be described in subsequent paragraphs herein.
  • the shielding elements 116 are supported on the sides of each of the adjacent rails 118 on a pair of opposing L-shaped brackets 124.
  • the shielding elements 1 16 may be releasably secured to the L-shaped brackets 124 through appropriate securing means such as connecting screws and the like.
  • the shielding elements 116 may also comprise other elements. For example, other types of materials may be utilized as the shielding elements 116.
  • the shielding elements 1 16 may comprise air-filled cellular structures.
  • such shielding elements may comprise 3D-Pongi fabric.
  • these shielding elements 116 may comprise rigid fins or, alternatively, heliofon fabric fins.
  • the shielding elements 116 may be supported on their sides through the use of a frame 126 which may, for example, consist of various materials, including extruded aluminum.
  • FIG. 3 is similar in scope to FIG. 2, in that it illustrates a pair of shielding elements 116. However, in place of the use of rails 118 and support rods 121 , the shielding elements 116 are supported from overhead building supports through the use of suspension cables 130 interconnected directly to the shielding elements 116 rather than through the use of rails 1 18.
  • the suspension cables 130 are adjustable in length.
  • the supporting infrastructure and/or the shielding elements 116 themselves may be adjustable in distance from overhead building supports.
  • interconnection between the shielding elements 1 16 and the rails 1 18 and support rods 121 may be constructed so that the shielding elements 116 are adjustable in vertical distance relative to the rails 1 18 and support rods 121.
  • FIG. 4 is a side elevation cross sectional view of the system shown in FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates the support rod 121 and rail 118.
  • the rail 1 18 will not be described in great detail herein.
  • the rail 118 may include cable trays 132 carrying communication cables 134 or the like.
  • Support brackets 136 may be interconnected to a main track 138 at spaced apart intervals.
  • the L-shaped brackets 124 may be interconnected to the main track 138 by any number of conventional securing means, such as bolt-nut combinations, connecting screws and the like.
  • a rail system having rails 1 18 is described in greater detail in the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/408,149, entitled “Rail System” and filed on September 4, 2002.
  • FIG. 60/408,149 entitled "Rail System” and filed on September 4, 2002.
  • FIG. 4 also illustrates the cross frames 126, interconnected to other components through the use of brackets 140.
  • FIG. 4 further illustrates the positioning of the members 142 in a spaced apart and parallel configuration along the shielding elements 116.
  • Mounted below the members 142 are LED lighting modules 144, which are mounted in any convenient manner on the underside of the members 142.
  • Surrounding the LED lighting modules 144 are a series of .
  • "light bags" 146 which may have various degrees of translucency. It is these light bags 146 and other embodiments as set forth in subsequent paragraphs herein which provide modifications to light intensity and varying degrees of translucency and diffusion with respect to the LED lighting modules.
  • FIG. 5 is a side elevation cross-sectional view of the configuration illustrated in FIG. 3. That is, FIG. 5 illustrates the use of suspension cables 130.
  • the suspension cables 130 depend downwardly and are received within apertures in the cross bracket 140 and in an L-shaped bracket 148.
  • An end cap 150 is utilized to secure the suspension cable 130 to the brackets 140, 148.
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective view (looking from underneath) of one of the elongated LED members 142 which may be employed with the shielding elements 1 16. As illustrated in FIG. 6, the member 142 is elongated in length and will laterally extend across a shielding elements 116. Mounted to the lower portion of the LED member 142 is a linear LED lighting module 144. The linear LED lighting module 144 is also elongated in length and secured by any of a number of conventional securing means (such as adhesives, connecting screws or the like) to the underside of the member 142. The linear LED lighting module 144 is positioned so that it extends longitudinally along the length of the member 142. The linear LED lighting module 144 includes a series of LED's 152 spaced apart along the length of the linear LED lighting module 144.
  • FIG. 7 is an illustration similar to FIG. 6, but illustrates the use of two linear LED lighting modules 144.
  • FIG. 8 is similar to FIGS. 6 and 7, but illustrates the use of three linear LED lighting modules 144 along the length of the member 142.
  • FIG. 9 is an underside elevation view of the member 142 and three linear LED lighting modules 144 as illustrated in FIG. 8.
  • FIG. 10 is an illustration of a linear LED lighting module 144, separate and apart from any member 142.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates that the linear LED lighting module 144 may be flexible in construction, and may be constructed of any of a number of suitable materials. Also, although not expressly shown in the drawings, low voltage DC power may be applied to the LED's 152 of the LED lighting module through wires or other conductors embedded within the length of the linear LED lighting module 144.
  • FIG. 11 is substantially similar in scope to FIG. 4. That is, FIG. 11 illustrates a rail 118 having cable trays 132 carrying communication cables 134. FIG. 1 1 also illustrates the use of the support rod 121, which is interconnected to the main track 138. Support brackets 136 are utilize to interconnect sections of the main track 138. In addition, FIG. 11, like FIG. 4, illustrates the use of an L-shaped bracket 124 and cross bracket 140 for interconnection of the shielding elements 1 16 to the rail 118. However, unlike FIG. 4, the configuration illustrated in FIG. 1 1 also includes a power transformer 160 which may be interconnected to electrical components in any suitable manner which are either associated with the rail 1 18 or otherwise configured around the rail 118 and shielding elements 116.
  • a power transformer 160 which may be interconnected to electrical components in any suitable manner which are either associated with the rail 1 18 or otherwise configured around the rail 118 and shielding elements 116.
  • the power transformer 160 may be utilized to supply low voltage DC power through power cord 162 to the linear LED lighting modules-144.
  • FIG. 11 illustrates the use of bus bars 164 to supply low voltage DC power to the linear LED lighting modules 144 and LED's 152. However, it may be preferable to employ a series of cables and wires (not expressly shown in FIG. 11) for purposes of providing electrical power to each of the linear LED lighting modules.
  • the interconnection between the power cord 162 and the bus bars 164 or appropriate wiring can be made in any conventional manner.
  • the electrical interconnection between the bus bars 164 or wiring and the LED's 152 of the linear LED lighting modules 144 may also be made in a conventional manner.
  • FIG. 11 A illustrates greater detail with regard to the configuration of FIG. 11, and comprises a sectional end view of certain components of FIG. 11, taken along section lines 1 1A - 1 1A of FIG. 11.
  • FIGS. 12 - 30 illustrate various configurations in accordance with the invention.
  • FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate a ceiling configuration 200.
  • the ceiling configuration 200 may be characterized as employing light diffusing fabric fins, with light bags. More specifically, the configuration 200 includes a series of members 142, each having a linear LED lighting module 144 secured to the underside thereof.
  • Each of the linear LED lighting modules 144 includes a series of spaced apart LED lights 152. Suspended in any appropriate manner from the members 142 are a series of light bags 210.
  • the light bags 210 serve to provide light diffusion and a particular level of translucence.
  • the light bags 210 may comprise light diffusion helioforrfabric. Such fabric is commercially available.
  • FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a second ceiling configuration 220.
  • light diffusing fabric fins again are employed.
  • the fins are in the form of a singular light sheet 230 which may be "wrapped" around the light members 142. Ends of the light sheets 230 may be secured together by any suitable means.
  • the light sheets 230 may also comprise light diffusing heliofon fabric. Again, such fabric is commercially available.
  • the fabric dimensions may be customized through the use of digital cutting by the end user.
  • FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate another alternative embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention, identified as ceiling configuration 240.
  • ceilings are utilized which are in the form of rigid fins 250.
  • the fins 250 may be secured in any appropriate manner to the lower portions of the LED members 142.
  • the rigid fins 250 form, as illustrated in FIG. 17, what would be characterized as "deep triangles.”
  • the rigid fins 250 in accordance with the invention may be composed of a translucent Lexan® material.
  • FIGS. 18 and 19 illustrate a further ceiling embodiment comprising the ceiling configuration 260.
  • the ceiling configuration 260 includes a pair of relatively long rigid fins 270, which essentially form a rectangular configuration.
  • Intermediate the two rigid fins 270 associated with each member 142 is a rigid fin 290 of intermediate length, and a rigid fin 280 of relatively shorter length.
  • the fins 280 and 290 separate a series of three linear LED lighting modules 144 from each other.
  • the rigid fins 270, 280 and 290 may consist of a translucent Lexan® material.
  • FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate another embodiment of -rceiling configuration, identified as ceiling configuration 300.
  • a series of rigid fins 310 form a rectangular configuration around individual ones of the linear LED lighting modules 144.
  • embodiment 300 is configured so that each linear LED lighting module 144 is turned on its side, with the strips of LED's 152 have a different directional configuration.
  • the ceiling configuration 300 includes the rigid fins 310 in a rectangular configuration, with the fins 310 also being constructed of a translucent Lexan® material .
  • FIGS. 22, 23 and 23A illustrate a further ceiling configuration 320 which may be utilized in accordance with the invention.
  • the ceiling configuration 320 includes a series of parallel and spaced apart linear air tubes 330.
  • the linear air tubes 330 are mounted so that a series of members 142 and attached linear LED lighting modules 144 are spaced intermediate the linear air tubes 330.
  • the LED members 142 may be mounted in any appropriate means to the frame 126.
  • polyethylene air tubes may be utilized. Such air tubes are commercially available.
  • FIGS. 24, 25 and 25A illustrate a further ceiling configuration 340.
  • the configuration 340 is somewhat similar to that illustrated in FIG. 22, in that the configuration 340 utilizes linear air tubes 350 for purposes of providing the ceilings.
  • the ceiling embodiment 340 also utilizes what are referred to as round marker LED lighting modules 360.
  • Such lighting modules 360 have a structural configuration as primarily illustrated in FIGS. 25 and 25 A.
  • the linear air tubes 350 may be constructed of polyethylene air tubes.
  • FIGS. 26, 27 and 27A illustrate a further embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention, identified as ceiling configuration 400.
  • the ceiling configuration 400 employs round marker LED lighting modules 360, corresponding , to the round marker LED lighting modules 360 previously described with respect to FIGS. 24, 25 and 25A.
  • the ceiling embodiment 400 employs ceilings which may be characterized as air pillows 410. Both the round marker LED lighting modules 360 and the air pillows 410 are commercially available.
  • the air pillows 410 may be constructed of a polyethylene material.
  • the air pillows 410 and the round marker LED lighting modules 360 provide a still different translucency and light diffusion.
  • FIGS. 28, 29 and 30 illustrate a further embodiment of a ceiling configuration in accordance with the invention. More specifically, FIGS. 28, 29 and 30 illustrate a ceiling configuration 450 which utilizes a series of woven fabric materials 460. These woven fabric materials 460 may be of any of a number of different fabrics, and may be suspended in a manner so as to provide a "wave" pattern as illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29. In addition, for purposes of aesthetics, forced air may be circulated around the fabrics 460, and the same may be suspended or otherwise hung so as to generate "pulsing" curvatures as a result of the airflow. Positioned above the fabrics 460 are members 142 having any of a number of different types of LED lighting modules 470 associated therewith.
  • the LED lighting modules 470 could be in the form of linear LED lighting modules or, alternatively, roundrnarker LED lighting modules, each as previously described herein.
  • FIGS. 31 and 32 illustrate the concept that the ceiling configurations do not necessarily have to be located in horizontal planes.
  • FIGS. 31 and 32 each show a horizontal plane A, for purposes of orientation.
  • Each of these drawings also shows a series of shielding elements 1 16 (which may incorporate any of the embodiments previously described herein), suspended from suspension cables 130.
  • the shielding elements 116 may be of varied angular orientation, with the shielding elements interconnected through flexible or hinged frames 500.
  • the ceiling configurations may be provided with means for facilitating control and reconfiguration of controlled relationships among various functional components which may be utilized with the ceiling configuration.
  • means for facilitating control and reconfiguration of controlled relationships among various functional components which may be utilized with the ceiling configuration For purposes of describing the concept of establishing controlling relationships among various controlled and controlling components which may be associated with the ceiling configurations, reference is made to the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/374,012 entitled “Switching/Lighting Correlation System" and filed April 19, 2002. The contents of the aforedescribed patent application are hereby incorporated by reference herein. With respect to the ceiling configurations described herein, most of these configurations made reference to LED lighting elements. That is, the ceiling configurations may be categorized as being available in an "unlit” format and a "lit” format.
  • various other types of lighting elements may be utilized, such as fluorescent, metal halide and similar elements.
  • various types of acoustical control or absorption concepts may be employed with ceiling systems in accordance with the invention.
  • the shielding elements may be constructed of fire resistant or fire proof materials.
  • the LED lighting elements and other lighting elements which may be utilized in accordance with the invention can comprise various colors. In addition, the colors of the lighting elements can be physically and/or electrically controlled.
  • FIGS. 33 and 33A illustrate a ceiling configuration 520 utilizing light bag elements 530 similar to those previously described herein.
  • the linear LED lighting modules 144 may be coupled to a power cord 530 which, in turn, is coupled to a switch stand 530.
  • the ceiling configuration 520 may employ other types of lighting elements, such as fluorescent, metal halide and similar elements.
  • the switch stand 530 includes a dimmer configuration 550, having an enabling switch 552 and a dimmer control 554. With respect to this configuration, FIG.
  • FIG. 34 illustrates a user employing a control wand 560 (to be described in subsequent paragraphs herein) for purposes of establishing control of the linear LED lighting modules 144 associated with the ceiling configuration 520.
  • the control wand 560 may be pointing to an IR receiver (not shown) for executing certain control functions.
  • FIG. 35 illustrates the user projecting the control wand 560 toward the dimmer configuration 550.
  • the dimmer configuration 550 may have an IR receiver, for purposes of receiving IR signals 562 from the control wand 560.
  • control wand 560 may be employed so as to establish that the dimmer configuration 550 will be controlling the linear LED lighting modules 144 of the ceiling configuration 520. Further, the control wand 560 may be used to reconfigure various shielding elements themselves. With respect to concepts associated with control, it is also possible to utilize ceiling systems in accordance with the invention with systems which employ vertically disposed space dividers and the like. An example of such a system is disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/408,01 1, entitled “Partition System with Technology” and filed September 4, 2002. An example of the control wand 560 is illustrated in FIGS. 36, 37 and 38.
  • control wand 560 may be of an elongated configuration. At one end of the control wand 560 is a light source 570 which, preferably, would generate a substantially collimated beam of light. In addition to the light source 570, the control wand 560 may also include an infrared (IR) emitter 580, for transmitting infrared transmission signals to corresponding IR receivers associated with the ceiling configuration 520 and the dimmer configuration 550, in addition to other elements which may be utilized with other functional accessories.
  • IR infrared
  • the control wand 560 may also include a trigger 590, for purposes of initiating transmission of IR signals. Still further, the wand 560 may include mode select switches, such as mode select switch 600 and mode select switch 602. These mode select switches 600, 602 may be utilized to allow manual selection of particular commands which may be generated using the wand 560.
  • the control wand 560 may also use controllers (not shown) or similar computerized devices, for purposes of providing electronics within the wand 560 for use with the trigger 590, mode select switches 600, 602, light source 570 and the IR emitter 580. As earlier mentioned, an example of use of such a wand, with the control commands which may be generated using the same, is described in commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No.
  • the user may employ the wand 560 to transmit signals to a controller (not shown) associated with the dimmer configuration 550 and the ceiling configuration 520.
  • a controller not shown
  • the capability of essentially "programming" controlled relationships among the various accessories associated with the ceiling configurations requires a capability of transmitting and receiving communication signals among the various functional accessories.
  • infrastructure systems may be employed. An example of such an infrastructure system which may be employed with the ceiling configurations in accordance with the invention is described in detail in the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/408,149, entitled “Rail System” and filed September 4, 2002.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)
  • Building Environments (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système de plafond (100), et illustre dans divers modes de réalisation la façon dont il peut être utilisé dans un intérieur architectural (102). Le système de plafond (100) comprend des éléments de protection (116) supportés par des rails parallèles et espacés entre eux (118). Ces rails sont suspendus au moyen de câbles de suspension (121) afin de surélever des supports de construction. Les éléments de protection (116) comprennent des revêtements (121) à translucidité variable pour une série de modules d'éclairage DEL (122) ou d'autres éléments d'éclairage. Les degrés de translucidité variable des éléments de protection (116) permettent d'ajuster l'intensité et la diffusion de la lumière projetée par les modules d'éclairage DEL (122) ou d'autres éléments d'éclairage.
EP03752023A 2002-09-04 2003-09-04 Systeme de plafond a technologie Withdrawn EP1534903A4 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US40818302P 2002-09-04 2002-09-04
US408183P 2002-09-04
PCT/US2003/027828 WO2004022874A1 (fr) 2002-09-04 2003-09-04 Systeme de plafond a technologie

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EP1534903A4 EP1534903A4 (fr) 2007-06-06

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EP03754435A Withdrawn EP1579084A4 (fr) 2002-09-04 2003-09-04 Systeme de plafond issu d'une avancee technologique

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AU (2) AU2003272261A1 (fr)
CA (2) CA2497608A1 (fr)
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WO (2) WO2004022866A2 (fr)

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AT503261B1 (de) 2006-03-10 2008-05-15 Hierzer Andreas Leuchtenanordnung sowie daraus hergestellter sichtschutz bzw. raumteiler
HUE032276T2 (en) * 2006-12-15 2017-09-28 Fritz Egger Gmbh & Co Og Component with at least one light source
EP2561265A4 (fr) 2010-04-21 2015-03-11 Cooper Technologies Co Architecture de carte à diodes électroluminescentes extensible
EP2823116B1 (fr) 2012-03-09 2021-11-03 The Regents of The University of Michigan Système et procédé de revêtement de lissage acoustique dynamique
RU2622475C2 (ru) * 2012-04-12 2017-06-15 Филипс Лайтинг Холдинг Б.В. Светоизлучающий акустический элемент здания
DE102014018016A1 (de) * 2014-12-08 2016-06-09 Paulmann Licht Gmbh Haltevorrichtung für mindestens ein Leuchtmittel sowie länglicher Träger hierfür
BE1028161B1 (nl) * 2020-03-25 2021-10-26 Delta Light Nv Verlichtingssysteem met geïntegreerde sensoren en geluidsabsorberende elementen
US11692345B2 (en) 2020-06-30 2023-07-04 Usg Interiors, Llc Modular dynamic acoustic ceiling panel

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US2527031A (en) * 1948-08-05 1950-10-24 Rambusch Decorating Company Ceiling carried fabric louver structure
US2772742A (en) * 1954-07-12 1956-12-04 Plax Corp Ceiling construction
US2817752A (en) * 1956-01-30 1957-12-24 Lightolier Inc Lighting system and ceiling panel
FR2316532A1 (fr) * 1975-07-02 1977-01-28 Germanaz Christian Nouveaux dispositifs d'eclairage a ecrans diffusants permettant des jeux de lumieres

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AU2003272261A1 (en) 2004-03-29
MXPA05002531A (es) 2005-06-17
EP1534903A4 (fr) 2007-06-06
AU2003270337A1 (en) 2004-03-29
EP1579084A2 (fr) 2005-09-28
WO2004022874A9 (fr) 2004-05-13
CA2497462A1 (fr) 2004-03-18
AU2003272261A8 (en) 2004-03-29
EP1579084A4 (fr) 2009-03-25
WO2004022866A3 (fr) 2007-05-10
WO2004022874A1 (fr) 2004-03-18
CA2497608A1 (fr) 2004-03-18
MXPA05002536A (es) 2006-02-08
WO2004022866A2 (fr) 2004-03-18

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