The present invention relates generally to suspended ceiling systems and more particularly to a pocket and adjustable trim piece that is removably attached and can be easily adjusted up or down, or removed and replaced with an entirely new piece, without the need to remove any other elements of the suspended ceiling system.
Some ceiling systems include a grid support system hung from an overhead structure (i.e., a suspended ceiling system) which includes an array of orthogonally intersecting longitudinal grid support members and lateral grid support members arranged in a fairly uniform pattern with regular intervals. The longitudinal grid support members and the lateral grid support members define a plurality of grid openings configured to support individual ceiling panels. Mechanical and electrical utilities (such as wiring, plumbing, etc.) may be conveniently routed in a hidden manner in the cavity or plenum formed above the grid support members and ceiling panels, making suspended ceiling systems a practical and popular ceiling option for residential, commercial, and industrial building spaces.
Certain suspended grid ceiling designs call for a consistent visual looking from the outside. This includes the visual of shades inside the commercial space.
Traditionally, such finishing is completed with studs and drywall materials, as the architect details this part of the building with little planning or thought to how the trim is installed or whether the trim can be easily removed, without removing the entire suspended ceiling structure. Indeed, as tenants in commercial spaces turn over, it is desirable to update the space's look by updating the finish components such as trim around the islands or edges of the suspended ceiling, without changing the visual looking into the building. Because construction and deconstruction is redundant, expensive, and wasteful, having a perimeter pocket fixed to the ceiling is undesirable. However, the connection rigidity provided by fasteners is desirable. Specifically, the trim piece should not rotate or droop once it is attached.
To provide for additional ornamental designs, it is also desirable that the trim pieces be adjustable in a direction substantially perpendicular to the ceiling. For example, the system should be capable of accommodating a number of trim pieces with bevels at different angles from the plane of the ceiling.
Accordingly, there is a need for ceiling system to which trim pieces may be rigidly and removably attached and thereby easily removed without the need to remove additional elements of the ceiling perimeter structure and where the vertical height of the trim pieces can be easily adjusted to provide for more ornamental ceiling designs.
According to an embodiment of the invention, an adjustable trim system for a suspended ceiling is disclosed. The trim system includes a pocket that attaches to the perimeter of the suspended ceiling. The pocket has a top portion attached to a first leg and a second leg on opposite ends of the top portion. The first leg and the second leg extending downward from the top portion with each leg having an exterior surface and a terminal edge. At least one pocket hook projects outward from the exterior surface of the second leg towards the top portion with one of the pocket hooks projecting outward from the terminal edge of the second leg. In addition, the first leg is longer than the second leg. The pocket is removably attached to a trim piece that is made of a stem section having a top end and a bottom end between which the stem has an engagement surface and opposite side surface. A trim section projects from the bottom end of the stem. At least one trim hooks and optionally a stabilizer bar project outward from the engagement surface. The trim hooks project in the direction of the bottom end and are located closer to the top end than the stabilizer bar. Each of the pocket hooks and the trim hooks include a projection portion connected to an attachment portion with a termination end opposite the connection to the projection portion.
In certain embodiments, the trim system includes a spacer located between the top of the stabilizer bar and the terminal edge of the second leg or the bottom of the pocket hook projecting out from the terminal edge of the second leg. The space can be made of a material selected from a group consisting of polymers, rubber, or a mixture thereof. Furthermore, the top of the stabilizer bar, the terminal edge of the second leg, or the bottom of the pocket hook projecting out from the terminal edge of the second leg may be textured to better hold the gasket or spacer.
In certain embodiments, the thickness of the termination end of the pocket hooks does not exceed 0.1 inches. Indeed, the attachment portion may taper to that thickness and the taper may be continuous or include a curve.
In certain embodiments, the distance the trim hook attachment portion projects out from the trim hook projection portion is 0.2 inches plus or minus 0.07 inches.
In certain embodiments, the pocket hooks and the trim hooks are located an equal distance apart. For example, the hooks may each be an inch apart. In other embodiments, the trim piece contains 6 trim hooks and 5 stabilizer bars spaced a substantially equal distance apart. For example, the distance may be about 1 inch (e.g., 1.0 inches plus or minus 0.07 inches).
In certain embodiments, the trim piece includes a flange projecting outward from the bottom edge of the trim piece. One or more flanges may also project out from the exterior surfaces of the first leg or the top portion of the pocket. When two or more flanges project from the top portion of the pocket the flanges closer to the first leg project further than the flanges farther from the first leg.
In certain embodiments, both the trim hook terminal edge and pocket hook terminal edge have a thickness from 0.13 inches to 0.27 inches.
In certain embodiments, the opposite side surface of the trim piece includes a notch closer to the bottom edge than the location on the engagement surface closest to the bottom edge from which the trim hook projection portion projects outwards. In such embodiments, the notch may be about 0.365 inches (e.g., 0.365 inches plus or minus 0.07 inches) closer to the bottom edge than the location on the engagement surface closest to the bottom edge from which the trim hook projection portion projects outwards.
In certain embodiments, on the trim piece, the location from which the trim hook projection portion projects out from the engagement surface which is closest to the bottom edge (i.e., the bottom of the projection surface that is closest to the bottom edge) is at least about 3.77 inches (e.g., 3.77 inches plus or minus 0.07 inches) from the bottom of the trim section.
In certain embodiments, the opposite side of the trim piece includes at least two ribs, wherein a first rib is closer to the top edge than a second rib and the first rib projects outwards from the opposite side and downwards towards the bottom edge and the second rib projects outward from the opposite side and upwards towards the top edge. These two ribs form a channel. In other embodiments, the opposite side of the trim piece may include two or more channels. For example the opposite side may include at least four ribs forming two channels, wherein a first channel is closer to the top edge than the second channel, the first channel formed by a first rib closer to the top edge than a second rib and the first rib projects outwards from the opposite side and downwards towards the bottom edge and the second rib projects outward from the opposite side and upwards towards the top edge, the second channel formed by a third rib closer to the top edge than a fourth rib and the third rib projects outwards from the opposite side and downwards towards the bottom edge and the fourth rib projects outward from the opposite side and upwards towards the top edge.
The invention is best understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawing. It is emphasized that, according to common practice, the various features of the drawing are not to scale. On the contrary, the various features are arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. Included in the drawing are the following figures:
The features and benefits of the disclosed pocket and adjustable trim pieces standoff for a suspended ceiling system are illustrated and described by reference to exemplary embodiments. The disclosure also includes the drawing, in which like reference numbers refer to like elements throughout the various figures that comprise the drawing. This description of exemplary embodiments is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawing, which is to be considered part of the entire written description. Accordingly, the disclosure expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combinations of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features.
In the description of embodiments, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top,” and “bottom” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be construed or operated in a particular orientation. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar terms refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both moveable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise.
Perimeter Pocket
Referring to
The perimeter pocket 100 includes a top portion 102 attached to a first leg 104 and a second leg 106 on opposite ends of the top portion 102. The first leg 104 and the second leg 106 extend downward from the top portion 102 each culminating at a terminal edge 108, 110. The second leg 106 is shorter than the first leg 104. In certain embodiments, the first leg 104 and the second leg 106 are substantially perpendicular to the top portion 102 and substantially parallel to each other.
The bottom of the perimeter pocket 100 is open. As used herein, the “interior” of the perimeter pocket 100 is defined as the region between the first leg 104 and the second leg 106 below the top portion 102 and above the terminal edge 108 of the first leg 104. The “exterior” of the perimeter pocket 100 is any other space, for example the space above the top portion 102, the space to the left of the first leg 104, the space to the right of the second leg 106, and the space below the terminal edge 108 of the first leg 104. Accordingly, the interior surface of the perimeter pocket 100 is the surface adjacent to the interior of the perimeter pocket 100 and the exterior surface of the perimeter pocket 100 is the surface adjacent to the exterior of the perimeter pocket 100.
The interior of the perimeter pocket 100 may also include one or more additional pluralities of protuberances, also commonly referred to as bosses, for attaching components to the interior of the perimeter pocket 100. For example, protuberances may be used to attach a window shade element to the perimeter pocket 100 and the plurality of protuberances may be used to attach a wire management element to the perimeter pocket 100.
The pocket may enclose additional components, such additional components may include, but are not limited to, lighting components such as lamps, recessed lighting, and emergency signs; window covering components such as shades or blinds; and other attachments such as wire management guides.
In certain embodiments, the perimeter pocket 100, as well as the other components discussed below, may be made of extruded aluminum. However, it will be understood that the components may also include other materials in addition to, or in place of, extruded aluminum, including other metals or plastics. For example, the perimeter pocket 100 may be made of extruded aluminum coated in a baked polyester paint finish.
First Leg
In certain embodiments, the first leg 104 includes at least one side flange 116 projecting from the exterior surface of the first leg 104, which may be in a substantially perpendicular direction to the exterior surface of the first leg 104. The exterior surface of the first leg 104 may include two, three, or four side flanges 116. For example, as depicted in
In certain embodiments, the exterior surface of the first leg 104 includes a side channel defined by a first rib 118 that projects in a direction away from the top portion 102. The first rib 118 is closer to the top portion 102 than a second rib 120, which projects in a direction towards the top portion 102. The first rib 118 and second rib 120 may define a side channel that is a substantially uniform distance from the exterior surface of the first leg 104. In certain embodiments, the first rib 118 and second rib 120 are in between two side flanges 116 and may define a side channel projecting about 0.06 inches from the exterior surface of the first leg 104. Furthermore, the side channel defined by the first rib 118 and the second rib 120 may be about 1.5 inches high.
Top Portion
In certain embodiments, the top portion 102 includes at least one top flange 122 projecting from the exterior surface of the top portion 102, which may be in a substantially perpendicular direction to the exterior surface of the top portion 102. The exterior surface of the top portion 102 may include two, three, or four top flanges 122. For example, one top flange 122 may project from the exterior surface of the top portion 102 where the first leg 104 contacts the top portion 102 with a second top flange 122 projecting from the exterior surface of the top portion 102 at a location where the second leg 106 contacts the top portion 102. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the exterior surface of the top portion 102 may include a third top flange 122 located between two other top flanges 122. Indeed, a third top flange 122 may be located a substantially equal distance between two other top flanges 122. In certain embodiments, the top flange 122 may include a dimple 134 adapted to align a fastener, such as a screw. In such embodiments, the dimple 134 may be located closer to the top end of the top flange 122 than the bottom end.
In certain embodiments, the exterior surface of the top portion 102 includes a top channel defined by a third rib 124 that projects in a direction away from the first leg 104. The third rib 124 is closer to the first leg 104 than a fourth rib 126, which projects in a direction towards the first leg 104. The third rib 124 and fourth rib 126 may define a top channel that is a substantially uniform distance from the exterior surface of the top portion 102. In certain embodiments, the third rib 124 and fourth rib 126 are in between two top flanges 122 and may define a top channel projecting about 0.06 inches from the exterior surface of the top portion 102. Furthermore, the top channel defined by the third rib 124 and the fourth rib 126 may be about 1.5 inches wide.
Second Leg
The second leg 106 includes at least one first pocket hook 112 and, optionally, a second pocket hook projecting outward from the exterior surface of the second leg 106. The second pocket hook projects out from the terminal edge 110 of the second leg 106. The first pocket hook 112 projects out from the exterior surface of the second leg 106 at the terminal edge 110 of the second leg 106. In certain embodiments, a second pocket hook projects out from a location between the first pocket hook and the point at which the second leg 106 connects with the top portion 102. In certain embodiments, the first pocket hook 112 and second pocket hook are spaced about 1 inch apart.
Both the first pocket hook 112 and second pocket hook include a projection portion 128 and an attachment portion 130.
The projection portion 128 projects out from the exterior surface of the second leg 106. In certain embodiments, the projection portion 128 projects out from the exterior surface of the second leg 106 in a substantially perpendicular direction, however, it may also project out at any angle. In certain embodiments, the minimum length of the projection portion 128 is 0.08 inches. In other embodiments, the length of the projection portion is greater than 0.39 inches.
The attachment portion 130 projects out from the projection portion 128 in the direction of the top portion 102. In certain embodiments, the attachment portion 130 projects out from the projection portion 128 at the edge of the projection portion 128, however, the attachment portion 130 may also project out at any location along the projection portion 128. In certain embodiments, the attachment portion 130 projects out from the projection portion 128 in a substantially perpendicular direction, however, it may also project out at any angle. In certain embodiments, the attachment portion 130 is less than 0.1 inches thick at its termination end 132. In other embodiments, the attachment portion 130 is wider at the connection point with the projection portion 128 and tapers towards its termination end 132 resulting a thickness of the termination end 132 of less than 0.1 inches. Such a taper may be continuous or include a convex or concave curve.
In certain embodiments, the taper begins at the location where the attachment portion 130 contacts the projection portion 128. In other embodiments, the taper begins further up the attachment portion 130. For example, the taper may begin halfway up the attachment portion 130.
In certain embodiments, the combined length of the attachment portion 130 is about 0.59 inches. For example, the length of the attachment portion 130 may be 0.59 inches plus or minus 0.08 inches.
In certain embodiments, the bottom face of the terminal edge 110 or the bottom section of the projection portion 128 of the first hook 112 may be textured. Such texturing may assist in securing the trim piece 200 by the use of a plastic or rubber gasket or spacer (not shown) placed between the terminal edge 110 or the bottom section of the projection portion 128 and the top surface of a stabilizer bar on the trim piece 200.
In certain embodiments, the exterior surface of the second leg 106 includes a side channel defined by a fifth rib 136 that projects in a direction away from the top portion 102. The fifth rib 136 is closer to the top portion 102 than a sixth rib 138, which projects in a direction towards the top portion 102. The fifth rib 136 and sixth rib 138 may define a side channel that is a substantially uniform distance from the exterior surface of the second leg 106. In certain embodiments, the fifth rib 136 and sixth rib 138 are in between two top flanges 122 and may define a side channel projecting about 0.06 inches from the exterior surface of the top portion 102. Furthermore, the top channel defined by the third rib 124 and the fourth rib 126 may be about 1.5 inches wide.
Trim Piece
Referring to
The trim piece 200 includes an ornamental trim section 202 attached to a stem section 204 at the bottom edge 206 of the stem 204. A top edge 208 is opposite the bottom edge 206. In certain embodiments a flange 222 may also project off of the bottom edge 206 in a direction opposite the trim section 202. The stem section 204 also includes an engagement surface 210 from which at least one trim hook 214 and optionally at least one stabilizing bar 216 project, and an opposite side surface 212. The trim hooks 214 project in a direction of the bottom edge 206 and are adapted to removably engage with the pocket hooks 112 to complete the described trim system.
Engagement Surface
The engagement surface 210 includes at least one trim hook 214 and optionally a stabilizing bar (not pictured). A trim hook 214 may project out from the top edge 208 of the stem 204. Any remaining trim hooks 214 project out from the engagement surface at a location between the top edge 208 and bottom edge 206 of the stem 204. The trim hooks 214 may project out at set intervals, such as about every inch. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, where there can be up to 6 trim hooks 214 and five stabilizer bars, the stabilizing bars and trim hooks 214 may alternate at set intervals down the engagement surface 210 of the stem 204. Such set intervals may be about every 0.5 inches.
All the trim hooks 214 include a projection portion 228 and an attachment portion 230. The projection portion 228 projects out from the engagement surface 210 of the stem 204. In certain embodiments, the projection portion 228 projects out from the engagement surface 210 in a substantially perpendicular direction, however, it may also project out at any angle. In certain embodiments the projection portion 228 of the trim hook 214 may project out about 0.1 inches (plus or minus 0.0375 inches).
The attachment portion 230 projects out from the projection portion 228 in the direction of the bottom edge of the stem 206. In certain embodiments, the attachment portion 230 projects out from the projection portion 228 at the edge of the projection portion 228, however, the attachment portion 230 may also project out at any location along the projection portion 228. In certain embodiments, the attachment portion 230 projects out from the projection portion 228 in a substantially perpendicular direction, however, it may also project out at any angle. In certain embodiments, the attachment portion 230 is less than 0.1 inches thick at its termination end 232 and projects out at least 0.1 inches from the attachment portion 230. In other embodiments, the attachment portion 230 projects out about 0.2 inches (plus or minus 0.07 inches) from the attachment portion 230. In other embodiments, the attachment portion 230 is wider at the connection point with the projection portion 228 and tapers towards its termination end 232 resulting a thickness of the termination end 232 of less than 0.1 inches. Such a taper may be continuous or include a convex or concave curve.
In certain embodiments, the stabilizer bar (not shown) projects out from the engagement surface 210 of the stem 204 in a substantially perpendicular direction. In certain embodiments, the stabilizer bar is substantially rectangular in shape. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the length that the stabilizer bar projects from the engagement surface 210 of the stem 204 is at least 0.08 inches. In certain embodiments the surface of the stabilizer bar closest to the top edge 208 of the stem 204 may be textured. Such texturing may assist in securing the trim piece 200 by the use of a plastic or rubber gasket or spacer placed between the terminal edge 110 or the bottom section of the projection portion 128 and the top surface of a stabilizer bar on the trim piece 200.
Side Surface
In certain embodiments, such as the one depicted in
Trim Section
The trim section may take on any number of ornamental designs. For example, as depicted in
Materials of Manufacture
It will be understood that the pocket 100 and trim piece 200 may be constructed from any bendable material such as metals, polymers, or carbon fiber. In an exemplary embodiment, both the pocket 100 and trim piece 200 are manufactured from extruded aluminum.
Piece Dimensions
The height of the trim piece 200 is between approximately 1 inch to approximately 8 inches. In an exemplary embodiment, the height of the trim piece 200 may be between 7.5 and 8 inches. For example, the height of the trim piece 100 may be approximately 7.75 inches.
The material gauge from which the trim piece 200 may be constructed may be between approximately 0.01 inches and 0.2 inches. For example, the material gauge may be approximately 0.11 inches. Furthermore, the circumscribing circle dimension of the piece may be from about 1 to about 8 inches.
The foregoing description of preferred embodiments of the invention should be taken as illustrating, rather than as limiting the present invention. As will be readily appreciated, numerous variations and combinations of the features set forth above can be utilized without departing from the present invention. Such variations are not regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such variations are intended to be included within the scope of the invention.
This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/155,915, filed on Mar. 3, 2021, the contents of which are incorporated in this application by reference.
Number | Date | Country | |
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63155915 | Mar 2021 | US |