Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
CEILING SYSTEM WITH TECHNOLOGY
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of the Invention
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.
Background Art
Architectural infrastructure continue to evolve in today's commercial,
industrial,
residential and office environments. For purposes of description in this
specification, the term
"architectural interiors" shall be used to collectively designate these
environments. Historically,
and particularly beginning with the industrial revolution, 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.
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
With the exception of executive offices, privacy for face-to-face or telephone
conversations,
meetings or other commercial interior activities was difficult to achieve. Of
course, until the past
several decades, and with the exception of telephones and typewriters, there
was no need to
configure interiors to facilitate usage of other office equipment, such as
computers, copying and
facsimile machines. In general, occupants of such architectural interiors had
no significant
control over their environments. Also, given the use of stationary walls,
permanent ceilings and
heavy office and industrial equipment, any reconfiguration of an architectural
interior was a time
consuming and costly undertaking.
During the middle of the Twentieth century, architectural interiors began to
acquire somewhat of a more "sophisticated" infrastructure design, particularly
with respect to
office environments. In part, this was caused by office automation with the
advent of electronic
copy machines, teletypes, electric typewriters and the like. The office
"layout" needed to take
into account greater needs for electrical power and configurations for
supplying power to
appropriate locations. Also, "shared" equipment, such as copy machines and
teletypes, required
consideration of centralized locations (and "common space") and high voltage
power supplies.
During this time, thought was also given to environmental concerns in
architectural interiors,
such as appropriate air ventilation. Although building owners and tenants
began to concern
themselves with the foregoing, architectural interiors still typically
involved very heavy and
relatively "stationary" furniture and fixed ceilings (the ceilings being
"fixed" in size, position,
structure, make-up and color). Lighting, heating and the early forms of air
conditioning also
continued to be controlled through central and often remote locations.
A further advance in architectural interiors began in the 1960's. Several
furniture
makers began work on systems having elements which provided at least a minimum
level of
2
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
individual privacy, and defined an individual's "workspace." Some of these
elements were
designed to provide electrical power (interconnected to the building's power
supplies) located at
an occupant's workspace. Hanging and supporting bracket structures were
developed to provide
means for interconnecting furniture accessories (such as shelving, cabinets or
worksurfaces) to
stationary walls or to the space dividers themselves. As these systems
evolved, they included
arrangements for use with specific utilitarian elements, such as computer
stands, keyboard
drawers and the like.
In general, these types of systems as developed over the past several decades
can
be somewhat characterized as providing a "kit of parts," comprising repeated
parts for the
occupants or users. Although these systems permit "partial" rearrangement of
architectural
interiors, they did not fit within a true definition of a "modular" system.
Instead, these system
are inherently "closed systems," and are limited to finite sets of
interchangeable physical parts.
Further, these systems typically do not address issues associated with ceiling
structures, such as interchangeability, lighting, acoustical properties and
the like. With respect to
ceiling structures, 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.
Relatively recently, architects and designers have introduced "open"
architecture ceilings that
expose structure, even in commercial and office environments. With such
exposed ceiling
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
architecture, providing "drop-downs" for HVAC duct work, fire sprinklers,
power supplies and
the like is not a significant problem. However, open ceiling architecture can
present problems
with respect to acoustical properties and, for some, may not be aesthetically
pleasing.
In addition to the foregoing issues, many known ceiling structures are
substantially difficult to reconfigure, once initially assembled and put into
place. Accordingly,
with this difficulty of reconfiguration, corresponding difficulties arise in
the event that
modifications are required in lighting, HVAC duct work or sprinkler locations.
In addition,
reconfiguration of most known ceiling structures may involve substantial
expense. Also, as with
other elements of known architectural interiors, reconfiguration may require
substantial time and
involve personnel having technical expertise.
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
4
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
resistant materials. In addition, the ceiling structure materials themselves
may be constructed of
fireproof or fire resistant elements.
Other disadvantages exist with respect to current ceiling systems. For
example,
most known systems do not have the capability of any rapid reconfiguration in
"appearance." It
would be advantageous, for example, to modify ceiling appearances for
"personal" design, the
identity of a particular meeting group or the like. Such changes in appearance
could include
rearrangement of lighting, modifications in color intensity, texture,
translucence and diffusion,
and images which may be projected upon or transmitted from ceiling systems.
Still further,
known ceiling systems do not lend themselves to interchangeability of ceiling
system
components. In addition, known ceiling systems do not have the capability of
modifications in
color, configuration and the like based on external environmental
characteristics, such as time of
day, particular season and other changes. In this regard, for example, health
experts have found
that lighting has effects on both physical and mental health of individuals.
Still further, many of the architectural interiors in existence today actually
result
in an "overperformance." That is, 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.
Still further, 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
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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.
Even further, however, difficulties can arise in known ceiling systems when
environmental characteristic control is provided within a general space of an
occupant. For
example, lighting associated with an occupant's ceiling may be controlled by a
switch which is
initially relatively close in proximity and readily accessible. However, if
the lighting is moved to
different ceiling areas, the switch controlling the lighting may no longer be
located in a
functionally "correct" position. In this regard, known systems have no
capability of providing
any relatively rapid reconfiguration of controlling/controlled relationships
among functional
elements, such as switches, ceiling lights and the like. Also, to the extent
these relationships are
reconfigured, substantial rewiring by personnel having significant technical
expertise will be
required.
Another significant disadvantage with known ceiling systems relates to their
lack
of development in light of advances in technology. However, many of these
technological
advances have modified today's business, educational and personal work
practices. Two
examples of relatively recent technological advances consist of the
semiconductor revolution and
the corresponding miniaturization of numerous electrical and
data/communications components.
Today, the work practices of many individuals may involve the need for
changing space
6
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
appearance through LED lighting and digital imagery. However, most of today's
ceiling systems
do not provide for availability of such features. In addition, known systems
do not provide any
other features which will facilitate efficiency in today's new work practices,
such as digital
programming of lighting.
The foregoing is only a brief description of some of the disadvantages
associated
with current development in architectural interiors and ceiling systems. In
part, disadvantages
exist because of today's business practices. The following paragraphs briefly
describe other
aspects of today's activities in the areas of architecture and design, and why
the foregoing
disadvantages of known ceiling systems are becoming even more important.
In the past, problems associated with difficulty in reconfiguration of
architectural
interiors, and lack of in situ control of a location's environmental
conditions, may not have been
of primary concern. However, today's business climate often involves
relatively "fast changing"
architectural interior needs. 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. However, when 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.
Designers need to "anticipate" the needs of future occupants of the building
being designed.
Needless to say, in situations where the building will not be commissioned for
several years after
the design phase, the ceiling systems of the building may not be appropriately
laid out for the
actual occupants. That is, the prospective tenants' needs may be substantially
different from the
designers' anticipated ideas and concepts. However, as previously described
herein, most
architectural interiors permit little reconfiguration after completion of the
initial design.
7
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
Reconfiguring of ceiling systems in accordance with the needs of a particular
tenant can be
extremely expensive and time consuming. During structural modifications, the
architectural
interior is essentially "down" and provides no positive cash flow t6'the
buildings' owners.
It would be advantageous to always have the occupants' activities and needs
"drive" the structure and function of the architectural interior layout. To
date, however, many
relatively "stationary" (in function and structure) interiors essentially
operate in reverse. That is,
it is not uncommon for prospective tenants to evaluate a building's
architectural interiors and
determine how to "fit" their needs (workspaces, conference rooms, lighting,
heating, ventilation
and air conditioning ("HVAC") requirements and the like) into the existing
architectural
interiors.
Still further, and again in today's business climate, a prospective occupant
may
have had an opportunity to be involved in the design of a building's
architectural interior, so that
the interior is advantageously "set up" for the occupant. However, many
business organizations
today experience relatively rapid changes in growth, both positively and
negatively. When these
changes occur, again it may be difficult to appropriately modify the
architectural interior so as to
permit the occupant to expand beyond its original architectural interior or,
alternatively, be
reduced in size such that unused space can be occupied by another tenant.
The foregoing paragraphs describe ceiling system reconfiguration as a result
of
delay time between original design and the time when users actually occupy
space, as well as
situations where reconfiguration is required as a result of a business
organization's growth or
other "external" conditions requiring reconfiguration. In addition, it would
also be advantageous
to reconfigure ceiling systems substantially on a "real time" basis, where the
needs of the
occupants change almost instantaneously. That is, the time period required for
reconfiguration
8
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
need not be of any substantial length of otherwise involve changes in a
business climate for a
particular occupant.
As an example, it may be advantageous for the occupant of a particular
architectural interior to have a specific ceiling system layout during morning
and evening hours,
while having a revised layout during mid-day hours. This could occur, for
example, in an
educational learning center, where usage of the architectural interior by
students may change, for
example, from primarily "individual" usage in the morning and evening hours,
to joint projects
and meeting activities requiring collaborative usage during mid-day hours. For
such usage, it
may be particularly advantageous to have the capability of rapidly modifying
ceiling system
colors, lighting characteristics and the like.
Other problems also exist with respect to the layout and organization of
today's
architectural interiors. For example, and as earlier described herein,
accessories such as switches
and lights may be relatively "set" with regard to locations and particular
controlling relationships
between such switches and lights. That is, one or more particular switches may
control one or
more particular lights. To modify these control relationships in most
architectural interiors
requires significant efforts. In this regard, 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
.s
similar activities. In addition, it would also be advantageous to have the
capability of modifying
physical locations of various functional accessories, without requiring
additional electrical
wiring, substantial assembly or disassembly of component parts, or the like.
Still further, it
9
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
would be advantageous if users of a particular area could effect control
relationships among
functional accessories and other utilitarian elements at the location of the
ceiling system itself.
In regard to the aforedescribed issues, a number of systems have been
developed
which are directed to one or more of these issues. For example, 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. An
acrylic horizontal
sheet is opaque and light transmitting areas are provided within cells, adding
a cube-like
configuration. Edges of the acrylic sheet are carried by the horizontal
portions of the T-bar
runners and cross runners.
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
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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 ~-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. In this
matter, 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. A particular feature of the
Balinski
arrangement is that when the system is subjected to extreme heat, and the
decorative trim drops
away due to the heat, the inverted T-configuration separates and helps to hold
the ceiling tiles in
place. In general, 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.
Csenky, 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
11
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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 amexternally
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.
Greenberg, U.S. Pat No. 4,475,226, issued October 2, 1984, describes a sound
and
light track system, with each of the sound or light fixtures being
independently mounted for
movement on the track. A bus bar assembly includes power bus bar conductors.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the invention, a ceiling system is provided, 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.
12
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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. Further, 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.
Further, 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. Further, to the extent that 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. Further, the shielding elements may be
supported from
13
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
overhead building supports through the use of suspension cables interconnected
directly to the
shielding elements. These suspension cables may be adjustable in length.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention,~the 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. Still further, 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.
Further, 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. Still further, a plurality of
the LED lighting
modules may be coupled to at least one of the members.
In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, 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. Still further, 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.
Still further, the ceiling system may comprise at least one bus bar for
supplying low voltage DC
power to the lighting elements.
14
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, 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.
Still further, 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.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, 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 LexanO material.
In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, 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.
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, 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.
Further, the
linear air tubes may be constructed of a polyethylene material. In accordance
with another
aspect of the invention, 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.
Still further, 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 ,
adjacent the air pillows. The air pillows may be constructed of a polyethylene
material.
In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, 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. Still further, 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. Still further, the ceiling system may include
utilitarian elements associated
with the shielding elements, with the utilitarian elements comprising at least
one controlling
device. The utilitarian elements can also comprise at least one controlled
device, with the
16
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
controlled device having at least first and second states. The system also
includes means for
generating communication signals so as to effect a logical control
relationship between the
controlling device and the controlled device. The logical control relationship
between the
controlling device and the controlled device may be reconfigured at least in
part with the
communication signals, and in the absence of any physical relocation of any
physical wiring
associated with the controlling device and the controlled device. In this
regard, the system can
include at least one manually operable programming means for transmitting
programming
signals so as to effect the logical control relationship.
In accordance with a still further aspect of the invention, 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.
Still further, the
shielding elements themselves may have at least first and second states. The
system may
comprise means for generating communication signals utilized to effect a
logical control
relationship between a controlling device and the shielding elements. The
controlled device,
alternatively, may also comprise at least a subset of the lighting elements.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
The invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, in which:
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;
17
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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. 1 lA 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;
18
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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 embadiment 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.
16;
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.
18;
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;
19
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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.
26;
FIG. 27A 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;
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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; and
FIG. 38 is an end view of one end of the wand illustrated in FIGS. 36 and 37.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The principles of the invention are disclosed, by way of example, within a
visual
shield system 100 initially shown in FIG. 1 and illustrated in various
embodiments in FIGS. 1 -
38. 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. In
addition, 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. As described in subsequent
paragraphs
herein, the ceiling system 100 may be linked to a digital programming network.
Still further, ceiling systems in accordance with the invention provide for
interchangeable shielding elements and interchangeability of other parts,
which is essentially
21
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
what could be characterized as a "mass customization." Unique visuals can be
provided within
the system. 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.
Still further, 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.
As illustrated in FIG. 1, the workplace 102 may include a series of conference
tables 104 and chairs I 06. However, the ceiling system 100 may be utilized in
any of variously
configured commercial interiors. As illustrated in FIG. 1, 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.
22
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
As described in subsequent paragraphs herein, 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. sprinklers and
the like) below a ceiling plane. More specifically, 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.
Still further, and in accordance with the invention, the ceiling system 100
and its .
various embodiments may employ lighting elements other than LED elements. For
example,
where LED lighting elements are described in subsequent paragraphs herein,
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.
Still further, as
referenced herein, 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. In addition to accommodating the utilities below the ceiling plane,
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. In this regard, 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,
23
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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. During the structural modifications, the
commercial interior is ,
essentially "down" and provides no positive cash flow to the structure's
owner.
However, with the ceiling system 100 in accordance with the invention,
reconfiguration is facilitated, both with respect to expense and time.
Essentially, the
architectural interior can be reconfigured in "real time." In this regard, not
only is it important
that various functional components can be quickly relocated from a "physical"
sense, but also
that "functional relationships" among components can be altered. As a
relatively simple
example, and as described in subsequent paragraphs herein with respect to
FIGS. 34 and 35,
functional or "control" relationships can be readily modified among various
switch and lighting
components. With respect to the relationships, alteration can occur with
respect to aesthetic
appearance. As earlier mentioned, it can be beneficial (from both a physical
and mental health
view point) to an individual to have certain types of lighting available.
These capabilities of
changes in appearance aesthetics occur both with respect to the capability of
changing shielding
planes, and from changing lighting.
24
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
More specifically, and with reference to FIG. 2, a perspective view is shown
of a
pair of shielding elements 116 which are supported through the use of 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). As further illustrated in FIG. 2, the shielding elements
116 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.
Preferably, the shielding
elements 116 may be releasably secured to the L-shaped brackets 124 through
appropriate
securing means such as connecting screws and the like.
In addition to the shielding elements 116 comprising shielding elements having
translucent material coverings 120 and LED lighting modules 122, the shielding
elements 116
may also comprise other elements. For example, other types of materials may be
utilized as the
shielding elements 116. For example, the shielding elements 116 may comprise
air-filled
cellular structures. In addition, such shielding elements may comprise 3D-
Pongi fabric. Still
further, these shielding elements 116 may comprise rigid fins or,
alternatively, heliofon fabric
fins. Further, 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.
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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 118. Preferably, the suspension cables 130 are adjustable in length.
With adjustability of
the length of the suspension cables, the supporting infrastructure and/or the
shielding elements
116 themselves may be adjustable in distance from overhead building supports.
Still further,
interconnection between the shielding elements 116 and the rails 118 and
support rods 121 may
be constructed so that the shielding elements 116 are adjustable in vertical
distance relative to the
rails 118 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 118 will not be
described in great
detail herein. In general, 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. As earlier stated, a rail system having rails 118 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. 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
26
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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 wfich 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 116. 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. Correspondingly, 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
27
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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 LEH 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. 11
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 116 to the
rail 118.
However, unlike FIG. 4, the configuration illustrated in FIG. 11 also includes
a power
transformer 160 which may be interconnected to electrical components in any
suitable manner
which are either associated with the rail 118 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. Correspondingly, the electrical
interconnection
28
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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. 1 lA illustrates greater
detail with regard to
the configuration of FIG. 11, and comprises a sectional end view ofcertain
components of FIG.
11, taken along section lines 11A - 11A of FIG. 11.
As earlier stated, ceiling systems in accordance with the invention may
utilize
LED and other lighting elements, along with selectable materials which will
surround the
lighting elements so as to provide varying degrees of translucence. The
selectable materials may
be digitally cut for purposes of forming the same. The selectable materials
will also be utilized
to modify the intensity and the diffusion of light projected from the LED or
other lighting
elements. FIGS. 12 - 30 illustrate various configurations in accordance with
the invention.
Turning to these drawings, 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. In accordance with one
aspect of the
invention, the light bags 210 may comprise light diffusion heliofon fabric.
Such fabric is
commercially available.
FIGS. 14 and 15 illustrate a second ceiling configuration 220. In this
particular
configuration, light diffusing fabric fins again are employed. However, in
this case, 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. In
this case, the
29
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
light sheets 230 may also comprise light diffusing heliofon fabric. Again,
such fabric is
commercially available. However, in addition, 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. In this
particular configuration, 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.
In this case, the rigid fins 250 form, as illustrated in FIG. 17, what would
be characterized as
"deep triangles." In this particular instance, 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. As shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, 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. Again, the rigid fins 270,
280 and 290 may
consist of a translucent Lexan~ material.
FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate another embodiment of a ceiling configuration,
identified as ceiling configuration 300. In this particular instance, a series
of rigid fins 310 form
a rectangular configuration around individual ones of the linear LED lighting
modules 144.
However, unlike certain of the other ceiling embodiments described herein,
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. In this case, the
ceiling configuration 300
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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. As illustrated in these drawings,
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. Although not
expressly shown in
the drawings, the LED members 142 may be mounted in any appropriate means to
the frame
126. For purposes of providing the linear air tubes 330, polyethylene air
tubes may be utilized.
Such air tubes are commercially available.
With respect to each of the ceiling embodiments described herein, it should be
emphasized that the specific embodiments do not show details relating to
powering of the linear
LED lighting modules. However, power can be supplied to the lighting modules
as described
with respect to previous drawings herein. Further, a number of different
arrangements for
providing power to the linear LED lighting modules may be utilized.
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. However,
unlike FIG. 22, 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 25A. Again, 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. In
this particular instance,
31
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
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. However, unlike the ceiling embodiment 340 illustrated-in FIG. 24,
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.
Preferably, 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. For example, the LED lighting
modules 470 could be
in the form of linear LED lighting modules or, alternatively, round marker 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 116 (which may incorporate any of the embodiments previously
described herein),
32
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
suspended from suspension cables 130. As illustrated in FIG. 32, the shielding
elements 116
may be of varied angular orientation, with the shielding elements
interconnected through flexible
or hinged frames 500.
As earlier referenced herein, 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.
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. As
earlier described
herein, various other types of lighting elements may be utilized, such as
fluorescent, metal halide
and similar elements. Further, various types of acoustical control or
absorption concepts may be
employed with ceiling systems in accordance with the invention. Still further,
with respect to
security and safety, the shielding elements may be constructed of fire
resistant or fire proof
materials. Still further, 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.
In this regard, it would be favorable to establish control relationships among
switches and lights, and have the capability of reconfiguring the same. Other
control
33
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
relationships may also be worthwhile. For example, FIGS. 33 and 33A illustrate
a ceiling
configuration 520 utilizing light bag elements 530 similar to those previously
described herein.
As also shown in FIG. 33, the linear LED lighting modules 144 may be coupled
to a power cord
530 which, in turn, is coupled to a switch stand 530. As with other ceiling
configurations
previously described herein, 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. 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. In this
case, 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. In this case, and as described in U.S.
Provisional Patent
Application Serial No. 60/374,012, entitled "Switching/Lighting Correlation
System" and filed
April 19, 2002, the user may be employing the control wand 560 so as to
establish that the
dimmer configuration S50 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
34
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
Application Serial No. 60/408,011, 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. With
reference thereto, the 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.
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.
60/374,012, entitled "Switching/Lighting Correlation System" and filed April
19, 2002.
Referring back to FIGS. 34 and 35, 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. The capability of essentially "programming" controlled
relationships among
CA 02497462 2005-03-02
WO 2004/022866 PCT/US2003/027535
the various accessories associated with the ceiling configurations requires a
capability of
transmitting and receiving communication signals among the various functional
accessories. In
this regard, infrastructure systems may be employed. An example-af 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.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the pertinent arts that other
embodiments of
ceiling systems in accordance with the invention may be designed. That it, the
principles of a
ceiling system are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein.
Accordingly, it will
be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and other
variations of the above-
described illustrative embodiments of the invention may be effected without
departing from the
spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention.
36
