Patent Application
20080266842
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to overhead structures for commercial interiors (i.e., commercial, industrial and office environments) requiring power 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, and to: a ladder system for conveniently supporting LED or similar lighting elements; a network configuration for control of lighting schemes including color and intensity (as well as network control of other components such as sound, equipment, projection screens and the like); and particular visual shield configurations structured so as to facilitate shipping, installation and use with various applications.
2. Background Art
Building infrastructure continue to evolve in today's commercial, industrial and office environments. For purposes of description in this specification, the term “commercial interiors” shall be used to collectively designate these environments. Such environments may include, but are clearly not limited to, retail facilities, medical and other health care operations, educational, religious and governmental institutions, factories and others. Historically, infrastructure consisted of large rooms with fixed walls and doors. Lighting, heating and cooling (if any) were often centrally controlled. Commercial interiors would often be composed of large, heavy and “stand-alone” equipment and operations, such as in factories (e.g., machinery and assembly lines), offices (desks and files), retail (built-in counters and shelves) and the like. Commercial interiors were frequently constructed with very dedicated purposes in mind. Given the use of stationary walls and heavy equipment, any reconfiguration of a commercial interior was a time-consuming and costly undertaking.
In the latter part of the 20th century, commercial interiors began to change. A major impetus for this change was the need to accommodate the increasing “automation” that was being introduced in the commercial interiors and, with such automation, the need for electrical power to support the same. The automation took many forms, including:
(i) increasingly sophisticated machine tools and powered equipment in factories; (ii) electronic cash registers and security equipment in retail establishments; (iii) electronic monitoring devices in health care institutions; and (iv) copy machines and electric typewriters requiring high voltage power supplies in office environments. In addition, during this period of increased automation, other infrastructure advancements occurred. For example, alternative lighting approaches (e.g., track lighting with dimmer control switches) and improved air ventilation technologies were introduced, thereby placing additional demands on power availability and access.
In recent decades, information technology has become commonplace throughout commercial interiors. Computer and computer-related technologies have become ubiquitous. As an example, computer-numerically-controlled (CNC) production equipment has been applied extensively in factory environments. Point-of-sale electronic registers and scanners are commonplace in retail establishments. Sophisticated computer simulation and examination devices are used throughout medical institutions. Increased sophistication of computers and other electronics associated with the examination devices is particularly increasing rapidly, with regard to the greater use of “noninvasive” procedures. Modular “systems” furniture has evolved to support the computers and related hardware used throughout office environments. The proliferation of computers and information technology has resulted not only in additional demands for power access and availability, but also in a profusion of wires needed to power and connect these devices into communications networks. These factors have added considerably to the complexity of planning and managing commercial interiors.
The foregoing conditions can be characterized as comprising: dedicated interior structures with central control systems; increasing needs for power and ready access for power; and information networks and the need to manage all of the resulting wire and cable. The confluence of these conditions has resulted in commercial interiors being inflexible and difficult and costly to change. Today's world requires businesses and institutions to respond quickly to “fast-changing” commercial interior needs.
Further, known 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 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 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 waste 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 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. An example 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 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. 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.” Accordingly, the space cannot be used during this time. Also, if the space was to be made available to tenants, the space is providing no positive cash flow to 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 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 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 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 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 Dec. 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 Jul. 12, 1977 is directed to a suspended ceiling system having a particular support arrangement. The support arrangement is disclosed as overcoming a deficiency in prior art systems, whereby exposure to heat causes T-runners to expand and deform, with ceiling tiles thus falling from the T-runners as a result of the deformation.
The Balinski ceiling system employs support wires attached to its supporting structure. The support wires hold inverted T-runners, which may employ enlarged upper portions for stiffening the runners. An exposed flange provides a decorative surface underneath the T-runners. A particular flange disclosed by Balinski includes a longitudinally extending groove on the underneath portion, so as to create a shadow effect. Ceiling tiles are supported on the inverted T-runners and may include a cut up portion, so as to enable the bottom surface to be flush with the bottom surface of the exposed flange. The inverted T-runners are connected to one another through the use of flanges. The flanges provide for one end of one inverted T-runner to engage a slot in a second T-runner. The inverted T-runners are connected to the decorative flanges through the use of slots within the tops of the decorative flanges, with the slots having a generally triangular cross-section and with the inverted T-runners having their bottom cross members comprising opposing ends formed over the exposed flange. 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 Dec. 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 Feb. 14, 1978, discloses a power track system for carrying light fixtures and a light source. The system includes a U-shaped supporting rail, with limbs of the same being inwardly bent. An insulating lining fits into the rail, and includes at least one current conductor. A grounding member is connected to the ends of the rail limbs, and a second current conductor is mounted on an externally inaccessible portion of the lining that faces inwardly of the rail.
Botty, U.S. Pat. No. 4,533,190, issued Aug. 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 Oct. 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.
In accordance with the invention, a lighting system is used within a building infrastructure and in a supporting physical structure. The supporting physical structure forms an overhead frame. The lighting system includes a series of lighting elements and a series of strip units, each of the strip units carrying a set of the lighting elements. Frame connection means are provided for connecting each of the strip units to the overhead frame. Power transmission means are provided which are connected to lighting elements for applying electrical power to the lighting elements. When the lighting elements and the strip units are assembled, light intensity can be varied by modifying the spatial density of the strip units. Still further, light intensity can be varied by modifying the number of individual lighting elements carried by each of the strip units.
When the strip units are connected to the overhead frame through the frame connection means, the strip units form a lighting plane. The strip units are connected to the frame connection means with a spatial density so as to provide light intensity when the lighting elements are activated, and so as to permit passage of fixtures through the lighting plane from above and below the lighting plane. Still further, the lighting system includes control means connected to the power transmission means, and operable by a user so as to selectively control the electrical power applied to the lighting elements. The lighting system can also be characterized as including control means operable by a user so as to modify a series of lighting properties associated with the lighting elements.
The series of lighting elements are allocated into lighting element groups, with each group comprising multiple lighting elements. Individual lighting elements of a given one of the lighting element groups are controlled so as to generate colors and/or hues different from other lighting elements within the given lighting element group. The series of lighting elements include LED lights.
In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the electrical power applied to the lighting elements consists of low voltage power. The electrical power may be in the form of DC power. When the strip units are connected to the overhead frame, the units form a lighting plane. The percentage of total planar area taken up by the strip units within the lighting plane is less than or equal to 70 percent. Still further, the control means connected to the power transmission means can be responsive to one or more of a group of environmental sensing devices, for purposes of selectively applying power to the lighting elements. The group of sensing devices may consist of one or more of the following: device for sensing sunlight intensity; device for sensing motion; devise for sensing temperature; device for sensing atmospheric conditions; device for sensing the presence of smoke; and device for sensing time of day. Still further, the control means can be responsive to the environmental sensing device group so as to enable certain of the lighting elements only within selected spatial areas of the lighting system. Still further, the environmental sensing device group can include one or more motion sensing devices. The control means can include means for selectively applying the electrical power in a manner so as to form predetermined spatial lighting configurations within the lighting elements, and so as to provide for directions functions. The lighting elements can include elements of differing colors. When the control means is controlling the spatial lighting configurations for purposes of wayfinding, or “space identifications,” functions, the wayfinding functions can utilize enablement of the lighting configurations with differing color configurations. The control means can also include means for selectively applying the electrical power in a manner so as to sequentially enable the lighting elements, with the spatial lighting configurations forming patterns visually indicating one or more safe exit paths in emergency situations.
The lighting elements can include elements responsive to the electrical power, so that the elements generate light of differing colors. The lighting elements can be responsive to changes in applications of the electrical power by correspondingly changing, in degrees, one or more of the following powered properties: translucence; light intensity; texture; and diffusion.
The lighting elements and the strip units form an overhead lighting plane. The lighting elements can include elements which generate variations in light intensity in response to variations in the applied electrical power. These lighting elements generate differing colors. When the lighting elements in the strip units are assembled as the lighting plane, the lighting elements and the strip units are of a sufficient spatial density so that the changes in lighting properties provide a place making function. Further, the tone of a spatial interior formed under the lighting plane can be varied through variations in the lighting colors and the light intensities.
The lighting system can include means for supporting the lighting elements in the strip units in a manner so as to vary the spatial density of the lighting elements and the strip units within the overhead lighting plane. The spatial density is configured so that the strip units include a spatial area of the overhead lighting plane which is a relatively small percentage of the entirety of the spatial area of the overhead lighting plane. The lighting elements in the strip units are spaced so as to further provide for a relatively continuous ceiling plane of light, while reducing shadow effects.
Still further, the system includes means for applying electrical power so as to generate variations in lighting properties across the overhead lighting plane. The variations in the lighting properties can include means for generating image projections through the use of the lighting elements. Still further, the system can include means for generating visual configurations of the lighting elements which vary with respect to color pixilation intensity.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the system can include network connection means connected to the power transmission means. This connection provides for controlling the application of electrical power to the lighting elements. The network connection means can include means for lighting control of a set of the strip units as an entire group. Also, the network connection means can include means for lighting control of sets of lighting elements on the basis of selective control of individual strip units. Still further, the network connection means can include means for selective lighting control of individual ones of the lighting elements.
Still further, the lighting system includes user control means connected to the network connection means. This connection provides a user with selective control of the application of the electrical power to the lighting elements. The user control means is located at any of a number of desired locations, with the locations being nearby or otherwise adjacent to the lighting system. Still further, the network connection means can include means for reconfiguration of controlled and controlling relationships between the user control means and the lighting elements, in the absence of any physical rewiring or other structural modifications of the lighting system.
In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the lighting system can include at least one light panel, with the light panel adapted to be supported by the overhead frame. The light panel includes a series of spaced apart lights positioned at various locations on the light panel. The light panel can be interconnected at opposing ends to a pair of spaced apart support rails. The support rails can form part of the overhead frame. Further, each of the support rails can be interconnected at its opposing ends to a pair of structural channel rails.
Still further, each of the lighting elements can include an LED. The light panel can comprise a light ladder panel having a series of spaced apart LED strip units. Each of the strip units can include a series of the lights positioned on an elongated length of each of the strip units. The light panel can include at least one LED ladder panel, with the LED ladder panel having a series of spaced apart LED strip units. Each of the LED strip units can include a series of lights, and each of the lights can include a LED light positioned on an elongated length of one of the strip units.
Each of the LED strip units can be interconnected at opposing ends to a pair of the spaced apart support rails. The support rails can form a part of the overhead frame. The lighting system can include a series of LED strip connectors, for connecting each of the LED strip units to the pair of support rails. Each of the support rails can be interconnected at each of its opposing ends to one of a pair of structural channel rails through a series of support rail mounting brackets.
With the overhead frame including a series of spaced apart structural channel rails, the channel rails can be adapted to carry power and communication signals for purposes of applying power to the lights. Also, the signals are carried for purposes of providing the capability of programming and controlling of the light elements. The system can further include conductive means for transmitting appropriate levels of DC power to the LED lights associated with individual ones of the strip units. The conductive means can include at least one bonded wire ribbon conductively connected to the strip units through the LED strip connectors.
The system also includes means for a user to vary the density of the light by varying the number of strip units associated with the LED ladder panel, and also varying lateral distances between adjacent ones of the strip units. The system can include frame connection means for connecting each of the strip units to the overhead frame. When the lighting elements in the strip units are assembled, light intensity can be varied by modifying the number of individual lighting elements carried by each of the strip units. The strip units can be connected to the frame connection means with a spatial density so as to provide light intensity when the lighting elements are activated, and so as to also permit passage of fixtures through the lighting plane from above and below the lighting plane.
Still further, the lighting system can include a series of lighting elements and a series of elongated mounting units, with each of the mounting units carrying a set of the lighting elements. Frame connection means are provided for connecting each of the mounting units to the overhead frame. Control means are connected to the power transmission means and are operable by a user so as to selectively control the electrical power applied to the lighting elements. The control means can also be connected to the power transmission means and operable by a user so as to selectively control and modify a series of lighting properties associated with the lighting elements.
The lighting system can include at least one electronics unit connected to the power transmission means, with the unit having means responsive to communication signals for selectively controlling the application of electrical power to the lighting elements. The unit can include processing means responsive to the communication signals for controlling application of electrical power to the elements. Means can also be provided for controlling when the electrical power is applied to the lighting elements, and amplitudes of the applied electrical power. The electronics unit can also include transformer means for converting an incoming portion of the electrical power to low voltage power, prior to being applied to the lighting elements. The electronics unit can include means for varying amplitudes of the low voltage power so as to provide a dimmer function for the lighting elements.
The system can include a series of the electronics units, and the lighting elements can be assembled so as to form a series of ladder panels. Each of the electronics units can operate so as to control application of power to lighting elements associated with corresponding ones of the ladder panels. At least one of the electronics unit includes an incoming power conduit for receiving incoming AC power, with the power being applied to an incoming side of a transformer located within the electronics unit. The transformer converts the incoming AC power to low voltage power. Dimmer circuit means are provided which are responsive to the low voltage power and to control signals so as to modify actual levels of power applied as output power from the electronics unit.
Each of the electronics units can include circuitry responsive to the communication signals, and responsive to DC power generated by the transformer means so as to apply dimmer functions to the DC power as it is applied as output power to the lighting elements. Each of the units can separately receive electrical power from an incoming power conduit. Each of the electronics units can include a number of dimmer control circuits, with the dimmer control circuits corresponding in number to the number of different colors associated with the differently colored LED's of the lighting elements. Each of the lighting elements associated with a given one of the mounting units can be electrically connected with all other ones of the lighting elements mounted on the given mounting unit.
The system can also include a series of connector modules, with each module electrically connected to user control means for controlling application of power to the lighting elements, and for connecting communication signals to the electronics units. The connector modules can also include means for distributing AC power carried along the structural channel rails to the electronics units. The system further includes user control means connected to the lighting elements through the electronics units for providing a user with selective control of enablement and disablement of the lighting elements. The user control means can include a multiple-channel dimmer switch assembly.
Each of the electronics units can be connected to and control an associated one of the ladder panels, with incoming electrical power being directly applied to each unit. Also, each unit can be connected to and control an associated one of the ladder panels, and each unit can receive incoming electrical power from means for distributing electrical power from the connector modules. At least one of the units can receive incoming AC power and include means for distributing the power directly to another of the electronics units. Still further, at least one of the electronics units receiving incoming AC power from at least one electronics unit directly receiving the incoming AC power includes means for further distributing the power to another of the electronics units. Power conduits can be provided to electrically connect at least one set of the electronics units in a daisy chain configuration. The lighting system can also include a series of IR receivers, with each receiver being associated with a given one of the electronics units.
Still further, one of the electronics units receiving communication signals from a connector module can include means for directly transmitting the communication signals to one or more of others of the electronics units. The system can also include other IR receivers, with each receiver being associated with a corresponding one of the mounting units.
In accordance with further aspects of the invention, a network connection system can be provided for distributing power among a series of application devices, and/or selectively controlling enablement and disablement of the devices. The connection system can include communication signals having information relating to control of the devices by the network connection system. Processor means can be responsive to certain of the communication signals for generating application signals. The application signals can include power and/or control signals. Means are provided for applying the application signals as input signals to the application devices. Receiver means are responsive to the programming signals for generating further programming signals and applying the further programming signals to the processor means. The processor means are responsive to the further programming signals so as to determine which of the communication signals comprise certain of the communication signals for generating the communication signals. The system can include user control means capable of manual use for generating the communication signals. The application devices can include one or more of the following: LED lights; sound equipment; motion sensing devices; projection screens; skylights; television monitors and cameras.
In accordance with further aspects of the invention, a visual shield configuration is used within a building infrastructure, and is also used with a physical supporting structure. The configuration includes support means for supporting the configuration from the supporting structure, and a series of segments, with each segment having flexible properties. The segments are arranged and interconnected so as to form a visual shield having a concertina-like configuration. Each of the segments can be constructed of a flexible Mylar® material, polyester film, or other flexible translucent material. The flexible properties of the segments are sufficient so as to permit manual manipulation of the visual shield into various shapes. Also, the segments can be manipulated into a collapsed state. At least a subset of the segments are arranged into segment pairs. Each of the segments within a subset is connected to at least one adjacent segment through at least one segment coupling.
Each of the segments within a subset can also be connected to a first one of the adjacent segments through a pair of segment couplings. Each of the segments of the subset can also be connected to a second one of adjacent segments through three segment couplings. The segments within the subset can be interconnected so that various shapes may be formed by varying the locations where the segment couplings are made between adjacent segments.
The segment couplings can be located so that the configuration forms a double wave configuration. The segments can be formed in a multiple wave configuration, with “x” representative of the number of waves formed within each of the segments of the subset, and each of the segments of the subset being interconnected with a first adjacent segment through “x+1” segment couplings. Each segment of the subset is also interconnected with a second adjacent segment through “x” segment couplings. The segment couplings can be formed through the use of rivets. Also, heat stakes can be used for the segment couplings. Still further, the segment couplings can be formed between adjacent ones of the segments, with the adjacent segments being partially folded outwardly on themselves, so as to form 4-ply segment couplings.
The support means can include means releasably coupling at least a subset of the series of segments to a support rail. The support means can also include means for releasably coupling segment pairs to two of the support rails. The support means can also include a series of end clips for releasably coupling the segment pairs to both support rails. Each of the end clips can be formed by a pair of end tabs, with each of the tabs being formed at an opposing end of each of the segments of the segment pairs. Each of the end tabs can include a substantially resilient and flexible configuration having an aperture positioned therein. Each of the apertures can be sized and configured so as to be received on one of the support rails. Still further, each end tab can be formed so as to be turned perpendicular to a general plane of an associated one of the segments of the segment pairs. The end clips can include means for permanently coupling together the two of the end tabs located on each end of the segments of each segment pair.
The visual shield configuration can be positioned below the plane of a lighting configuration, so as to affect the angle, intensity and color transmission of the light projected from the lighting configuration below the plane of the visual shield. The segments can be formed into a partially expanded state. Each of the segments can include a top edge, pair of sides and a bottom edge. The bottom edges of at least a subset of the segments can be cut in non-straight line configurations, with certain of the subset of the series of segments having a cut configuration differing from a configuration of others of the subset of the plurality of segments. The segments can be arranged so as to form a configuration having substantially open areas from below the visual shield configuration to above the configuration. The segments can be interconnected and be of a sufficiently flexible material so as to be collapsible for purposes of shipment and storage when disconnected from the physical supporting structure.
In accordance with a still further aspect of the invention, a visual shield configuration can include a sheet of flexible material, appropriately cut so as to have a width corresponding to a desired width between supporting elements of a physical supporting structure. The sheet can include a series of lateral rows of a series of cut first shapes, with the rows including a series of the cut first shapes extending horizontally across the cut first sheet. When external forces are applied to a first lateral row of the cut first shapes in a direction opposing the location of an adjacent row, the sheet will form itself into non-planar configurations, where planes of adjacent lateral rows are non-parallel. Still further, the sheet can be cut into a configuration including lateral rows of cut rectangles, with the lateral rows comprising first and second rows, adjacent to each other, and with each of the rows comprising a series of the cut rectangles extending horizontally across the sheet. Each of the rectangles can include a lower edge extending horizontally across the sheet, with a center slot cut within each of the rectangles extending upwardly from a corresponding one of the lower edges, the slot extending upwardly in the range of one quarter to three quarters of a vertical length of an associated one of the rectangles.
Each of the rectangles can include an upper edge and opposing lateral sides, with a side slot extending downwardly from the upper edge on each of the lateral sides of the rectangles. Each length of each side slot is in the range of one quarter to three quarters of a vertical length of the rectangles. The lower edge of the first lateral row and the upper edge of the adjacent second lateral row are formed by cutting a channel between the first and second adjacent rows.
In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the LED strip connectors can each include LED clip bus assemblies having one end mechanically and electrically coupled to a corresponding LED strip unit, and another outwardly extending end of the clip bus assembly terminating in a resilient rail connector. Each strip connector can include a bus channel having an area for electrically connecting one end of a set of buses to a bonded wire ribbon, and with the area further providing for electrically connecting other ends of the buses with a connector block for applying power to LED's associated with a corresponding one of the strip units. A connector bus group having a series of buses is secured within the channel, in an isolated manner. Means are provided for securing the connector buses within the bus channel, and when the buses are positioned in the channel, bus ends are positioned within a ribbon interconnection cavity positioned outwardly from the channel. Ribbon connector forks are formed at the bus ends and turned upwardly, and are staggered within the cavity as a result of individual ones of the buses having differing lengths. When the buses are secured within the channel and the ribbon interconnection cavity, the bonded wire ribbon can be electrically secured to the buses.
The invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, in which:
The principles of the invention are disclosed, by way of example, within a ceiling system 100 initially shown in
Still further, ceiling system 100 may provide for interchangeable shielding elements and interchangeability of other parts, which 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, relatively larger shielding elements can be utilized. In this regard, the shielding elements can be constructed, for example, 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, light intensity and time of day. Changes in light may also be provided by 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 system 100 may take advantage of advancements in semiconductors and miniaturization of electronic components. That is, ceiling system 100 may 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
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 system 100 may 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, the ceiling system 100 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. 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 concepts of the ceiling system 100 are the issues associated with what may be characterized as “anticipatory design” or flexibility. That is, at the time that a designer may complete a structural and functional design for a commercial interior (including not only wall structures, but also locations of ceiling shielding elements, electrical fixtures, data nodes, communication outlets and the like), it may be several years before particular tenants occupy the structure. Between the time of the design completion and the time the particular tenants wish to occupy the structure, the prospective tenants' needs may be substantially different from the designers' anticipatory ideas. However, most commercial interior structures permit little reconfiguration of architectural elements and structure, after completion of an initial design. Reconfiguring a structure for the needs of a particular tenant can be extremely expensive and time consuming. During the structural modifications, the commercial interior is essentially “down.” Accordingly, the space cannot be used during this time. Also, if it was intended that the space was to be made available to tenants, the space is providing no positive cash flow to the buildings' owners at this time.
However, with the ceiling system 100, 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 can various functional components be quickly relocated from a “physical” sense, but also “functional relationships” among components can be altered. As a relatively simple example, and as described in subsequent paragraphs herein with respect to
More specifically, and with reference to
In addition to the shielding elements 116 having translucent material coverings 120 and LED lighting modules 122, the shielding elements 116 may also comprise other components and characteristics. For example, the shielding elements 116 may comprise air-filled cellular structures. In addition, such shielding elements may comprise 3D 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.
In addition,
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.
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.
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 Ser. No. 60/374,012 entitled “Switching/Lighting Correlation System” and filed Apr. 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 relationships may also be worthwhile. For example,
With respect to concepts associated with control, it is also possible to utilize ceiling systems in accordance with the invention with systems which employ vertically disposed space dividers and the like. An example of such a system is disclosed in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/408,011, entitled “Partition System with Technology” and filed Sep. 4, 2002.
An example of the control wand 560 is illustrated in
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 Ser. No. 60/374,012, entitled “Switching/Lighting Correlation System” and filed Apr. 19, 2002.
Referring back to
The foregoing has described a number of concepts associated with ceiling systems for use with a supporting infrastructure. As also described, the supporting infrastructure has the capability of distribution of electrical power and communications, utilizing a series of frames and cross frames. Shielding elements are supported with the frames and cross frames, and a series of lighting elements are electrically coupled and energized through the electrical power distribution. In addition to these concepts, additional concepts which may be characterized as being refinements and enhancements to those previously described herein are set forth in the following paragraphs. With respect to concepts described in the foregoing, a number of those components are disclosed and claimed in International Patent Application No. PCT/US03/27535, entitled “CEILING SYSTEM WITH TECHNOLOGY,” filed Sep. 4, 2003.
For purposes of disclosure, the concept of “shielding elements” as used in the foregoing description will more often be referenced in subsequent paragraphs herein as “visual shields.” These visual shields, as also previously described herein, can be utilized with lighting systems, including such elements as the LED lighting modules 144, previously illustrated and described with respect to the use of a series of spaced apart LED lights 152. When considering the use of LED or similar lighting systems in an overhead structure, a number of issues become important. For example, when installing LED lighting systems, it would be beneficial if the installation is relatively simple. In fact, if the installation procedures can be reduced sufficiently with respect to complexity, it may be possible for laypersons to install the same, without requiring electricians or others having technical expertise (and cost). In the same regard, for facilitating installation, it is advantageous if the LED lighting elements are of a relatively light weight.
In addition to weight, if the lighting elements can be manufactured and assembled off-site so that when they are received at the installation site, the number of individual “parts” of the lighting configurations can be minimized. These and similar properties not only facilitate initial installation, but also replacement. Still further, in terms of structure of lighting configurations, governmental and other institutional codes and regulations may require such configurations to maintain access to the fixtures which may be mounted above the general plane of the lighting configurations (such as sprinkler systems and the like). Similarly, the light configurations should be configured so as to permit fixtures above the general plane of lighting configurations to be brought downward “through” the light configurations and below the configuration planes. In the same regard, it is advantageous if the lighting configurations can provide sufficient light intensity, while still being of a size which permits selective placement and relocation of fixtures. That is, it is advantageous if the lighting configurations do not occupy a substantial amount of square footage relative to the area of an overall ceiling plane.
Other advantageous features of lighting configurations in accordance with the invention relate to actual performance. Safety considerations are always important with respect to lighting configurations. Accordingly, it may be advantageous for the lighting configurations to operate with relatively low voltages. With the use of lighting configurations under control of a communications network as previously described herein, such configurations could be made to respond to various types of environmental sensing devices. For example, light intensity generated by the lighting configurations could be made to vary dependent upon the level of sunlight intensity then within the overall environment. Such sensors can also include motion sensing devices. The lighting configurations could be made to enable lights only within certain spatial areas, in response to communication signals representative of sensed motion. In this same regard, variations in spatial lighting configurations can be utilized for purposes of “wayfinding,” as described in previous paragraphs herein. Again, such wayfinding can be utilized with the lighting configurations by generation of different colors (representing, for example, emergency situations) and variations in spatial lighting. Emergency situations may also result in sequential enablement of various lights within the configuration, thereby representing a safe exit path.
Still further, changes in degrees of translucence, light intensity, texture, diffusion and color can be utilized to change the overall aesthetics of a commercial interior. It is known, for example, that changes in lighting properties have the capability of psychologically influencing an occupant's mood. These changes in lighting properties can also provide a “placemaking” function. That is, the “tone” of the commercial interior can be varied through variations in lighting colors, intensity and the like.
As earlier described, it is advantageous if the area of the ceiling plane taken up by the lighting configurations is maintained relatively small (thereby allowing access to fixtures, fixture placement and relocation). However, it is also advantageous if the lighting configurations can require relatively small spatial areas, while still providing, if desired, for a “continuous” ceiling plane of light. Such continuums in light intensity are known to enhance space lighting, reduce shadows and provide other advantages. Having somewhat of a “continuous” ceiling plane of light and the capability of variations in lighting properties across the plane provide for other advantages. For example, the concept of “pixels” is relatively well known in the areas of image processing, pattern recognition, computer graphics and other display technologies. A pixel is often referred to as the smallest element of a display surface that can be given independent characteristics. With the use of lighting configurations as described herein in accordance with the invention, functions such as image displays on ceiling surfaces and the like can be facilitated. That is, the lighting configurations can be made to vary with respect to what is characterized as “color pixilation intensity.”
As earlier stated, it may be advantageous for lighting configurations in accordance with the invention to utilize relatively low voltages. The use of low voltages, and particularly the use of DC voltages, provides economic advantages, as well as facilitating safety. With low voltage lighting configurations, and particularly LEDs, these configurations have a relatively long life, given the low energy consumption. Also, these lighting configurations do not result in the generation of any substantial heat within the commercial interior, in view of relatively reduced AC power consumption.
As also described in subsequent paragraphs herein, one particular visual shield configuration falling within the scope of the invention and having relatively preferable structure and function is characterized herein as a “concertina visual shield.” As will be described, the concertina visual shield is relatively lightweight, thereby facilitating installation and replacement. Also, the concertina visual shield is sufficiently porous, so as to permit ceiling entry for utilities such as sprinklers, air conditioning components and others. In addition, when used with a structural overhead system which is considered to be a preferred implementation, the concertina visual shield can be releasably secured to structural elements, thereby facilitating installation, replacement and general user access. With the particular structural support and means described herein for releasably securing the concertina visual shield to the structure, various lighting structures of the LED lighting configurations can be readily placed in desired positions on the structure, without any substantial interference from the concertina visual shield.
The concertina visual shield also provides for various aesthetics. For example, the visual shield can be “customized” to particular types of configurations, through the use of custom contour cuts. Also, the concertina visual shield can utilize various types of components (such as light bags). The overall construction of at least one embodiment of the concertina visual shield in accordance with the invention not only facilitates installation or replacement, but also is economically advantageous. The concertina visual shield in accordance with the invention may be constructed as a continuum, thereby facilitating installation. However, such a construction also assists in shipment, in that the concertina visual shield can, for example, be “collapsed” so as to require relatively minimal shipping space. The concertina visual shields can also be characterized as being “dematerialized,” thereby resulting in less waste and more rapid reconstruction.
The lighting configurations and the concertina visual shields (as well as other visual shields which may be utilized) can be advantageously implemented within a power and communications distribution system which facilitates lighting control. As will be described herein, the user will have the capability of control of lighting anywhere from a relatively “broad” selection to a set of specific components associated with the lighting configurations. The interconnections of the lighting configurations to the communications network also permit relatively broad color spectrums, whereby the user can enable specific color and lighting schemes. With the communications network having a distributed configuration, the user can locate the user's control components at any of a number of various desired locations. Still further, the embodiments of network connection configurations as described herein for the use of lighting elements can be applied to include other types of applications, such as sound devices, motion control, projection screens and others.
Turning more specifically to the lighting configurations and visual shields described in subsequent paragraphs herein, reference is made to
With reference to
Turning more specifically to the structure of each of the main perforated structural channel rails 652, each rail 652 may have a longitudinally extending upper portion 660 formed in a single plane, which would be commonly positioned in a horizontal configuration. Extending through the upper portion 660 are a series of spaced apart upper rectangular apertures 662. The apertures 662 can be characterized as surface perforations, which may be utilized to permit passage of cables or the like above and below a ceiling plane formed by the structural channel rails 652. Predrilled mounting holes (not shown) may also be positioned as necessary within the upper portion 660. These mounting holes can be utilized for purposes of securing the suspension brackets 658 to the structural rails 652.
Integral with the upper portion 660 and extending downwardly from opposing lateral sides thereof are a pair of side panels 664. Extending along the sides of both side panels 664 of an individual structural channel rail 652 are a series of apertures 666. For purposes of clarity in the drawings, the apertures 666 are illustrated in
The main perforated structural channel rails 652 can also include a number of other components, such as covers and the like. Also, although not specifically shown in the drawings, power and communications can be distributed along the lengths of the structural channel rails 652 through the use of devices such as modular plug assemblies (not shown). These modular plug assemblies may include buses, cables or other types of electrical structure for interconnecting, for example, to incoming building sources of AC power. These plug assemblies may have elongated lengths with the electrical wiring carrying AC building power being distributed through the entirety of the lengths of the structural channel rails 652. Correspondingly, such modular plug assemblies may also carry communication signals for purposes of providing for a programmable communications network throughout the entirety of LED ladder system 650 and other components which may be associated with the structural channel system 654. These communication signals may be distributed not only along the lengths of each of the individual structural channel rails 652, but electrical interconnections may be made between and among various structural channel rails 652 so as to provide for a complete distribution of a communications or “intelligence” network. The LED ladder system 650 may utilize interconnections of the modular plug assemblies for purposes of obtaining low voltage DC power. The modular plug assemblies may also provide access to AC building power. However, other devices (such as the electronics units 814 subsequently described herein) may be used to directly access AC building power and convert the same to DC power for powering the LED ladder system 650. Further, the electronics units 814 may be responsive to signals received from the communication network so as to selectively control the application of DC power (including amplitude variation of applied voltages for purposes of variation in light intensities).
Various types of devices (including the wand 560) may be controlled by the user for purposes of appropriately generating communication signals so as to program functional operation of the lighting or other components associated with the LED ladder system 650. With respect to the structural channel system 654, including the use of structural channel rails, support rods, suspension brackets, modular plug assemblies and other electronic components, these concepts are disclosed in copending U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/599,447 entitled “POWER AND COMMUNICATIONS DISTRIBUTION USING A STRUCTURAL CHANNEL SYSTEM” and filed Aug. 5, 2004. The disclosure of the aforedescribed patent application is incorporated by reference herein. Because of the importance of the aforedescribed provisional patent application, the application will be referred to herein as the “channel system application.” The structural channel system 654 disclosed herein may correspond to the structural channel system 100 disclosed in the channel system application. Correspondingly, the main perforated structural channel rails 652 disclosed herein may correspond to structural channel rails 102. Threaded support rods 656 disclosed herein may correspond to support rods 114. Suspension brackets 658 may correspond to suspension brackets 110. The modular plug assemblies referenced herein may correspond to modular plug assemblies 130.
With reference to
The LED ladder system 650 also includes a series of conductors characterized herein as bonded wire ribbons 680. The bonded wire ribbons 680 comprise means for transmitting appropriate levels of DC power to the LED lights associated with the individual LED strip units 674. The bonded wire ribbons 680 are conductively connected to the LED strip units 674 within the LED strip connectors 678.
One of the advantages of the LED ladder system 650 in accordance with the invention is that the user can vary the density of the lights by varying the number of LED strip units 674 associated with each of the LED ladder panels 668, and also vary the distance between adjacent LED strip units 674. In addition, although
In addition, the number of LED strip units 674 associated with any given LED ladder panel 668 may vary in number, not only based on sizing considerations, but also on power requirements (both with respect to wattage and density) and programmable resolution with respect to the lights associated with the LED strip units 674. That is, in a particular configuration as illustrated in
With respect to relative sizes, and as earlier described, various sizes and spacing among the structural components of the LED ladder system 650 may be used. For example, the main perforated structural channel rails 652 illustrated in
The configuration of each of the support rails 670 will now be described, primarily with respect to
As shown in
As earlier stated, the LED ladder system 650 in accordance with the invention includes the support rails 670, adapted to interconnect to the main perforated structural channel rails 652. For this interconnection purpose, the LED ladder system 650 includes support rail mounting brackets 672. The mounting brackets 672 will now be described primarily with respect to
The support rail mounting bracket 672 includes an upper vertically disposed central member 708 having a substantially elongated configuration. Through holes 710 project through the upper central member 708 adjacent each end thereof (see
The support rail mounting bracket 672 also includes a downwardly projecting and lower member 720, as primarily shown in
As earlier described, the LED ladder system 650 includes a series of LED strip connectors 678. The LED strip connectors 678 comprise means for releasably securing the LED strip units 674 to spaced apart support rails 670. The LED strip connectors 678 will now be described with respect to
For purposes of releasing the LED strip connector 678 from its secured relationship with the support rail 670, and as specifically shown in
As shown primarily in
More specifically, the bonded wire ribbon 680 comprises an elongated set of four insulated wires, having a cross section as illustrated in
As shown particularly in
As primarily shown in
With reference primarily to
Although not shown in significant detail,
In addition to the foregoing description, other components may be relevant to use of the LED ladder system 650. For example, as will be described subsequently herein, dimmer components can be utilized with the LED ladder system 650, so as to apply various voltage amplitudes to the LEDs associated with the LED groups 784. In this manner, light intensity can readily be varied. Also, the “spatial density” of the LED group 784 may also be varied, dependent upon the spacing of the LED groups along the modular LED strip 784. Correspondingly, with respect to each of the LED ladder panels 668, the spacing between adjacent LED strip units 674 can also be varied. In addition, the number of LED strip units 674 associated with each LED ladder panel 668 can be modified.
With the coupling of the bonded wire ribbon 680 to the LED strip connectors 678 for purposes of applying power to the strip units 674, only one ribbon 680 need be utilized for any given LED ladder panel 668. That is, and as primarily shown in
On the other hand, however, when the LED ladder panels 668 are being installed on the support rail 670, one end of each of the LED strip units 674 will be free to move independently of any of the other strip units 674. This concept of having one end of each of the LED strip units 674 being free is illustrated in
Also, for purposes of maintaining rigidity and tolerances, it may be worthwhile to consider using other structural elements. For example, if it is desired that the spaced apart distances between adjacent ones of the support rails 670 are maintained within relatively small tolerances, it would be possible to secure elements such as “cross wires” (not shown) between adjacent ones of the support rails 672, at spaced apart distances along the lengths of the support rails 672. Such cross wires could, for example be relatively rigid in structure and be releasably secured at opposing ends within, for example, the visual shield connecting slots 702 along the support rails 670.
The foregoing discussion was primarily directed to structural concepts associated with the LED ladder system 650. The concept of utilizing multiple LEDs within LED groups 784 was also discussed. In this regard, the individual LEDs of any given LED group 784 may advantageously generate colors or hues substantially separated across the frequency spectrum. The subsequent description herein is directed to means for control of the LED groups 780, not only with respect to enablement and disablement, but also with respect to variations in voltage inputs so as to provide for dimming functions.
Control of lighting with respect to the visual shield configurations 100 was provided through the use of a network and a manually operated control wand 560. These concepts were previously discussed herein with respect to
With the disclosure of the channel system application in mind,
Turning specifically to
More specifically, and again with respect to
For purposes of description, the DC power generated as output power from each of the electronics units 814, and as modified by the dimmer circuits, will be referred to herein as the “modified applied DC power” or “modified DC power.” This modified DC power is applied as output power from the electronics unit 814 to a DC power cable 818, through a conventional electrical connector 816. As further shown in
As earlier stated, the network connection configuration 810 is operating with the LED ladder system 650 within a distributed power and communications network, such as that described in the channel system application. Accordingly, each of the main perforated structural channel rails 652 includes structure which provides for the transmittal through the rail 652 of AC power. Such AC power can be generated on the rails 652 through other circuit means (not shown) utilized to connect incoming AC building power directly to cables running through the rails 652. Correspondingly, as earlier mentioned, the same rails 652 will carry communication signals. Preferably, the structure of the distribution network will incorporate means for coupling communications cables associated with one rail 652 to other rails 652 within the network. Means for achieving such coupling, and for applying communication signals to cables running through the rails 652 are described in the channel system application. The concept of AC power running through the rails 652 is shown by the arrows labeled 820 in
To utilize AC power being transmitted through the rails 652 for components of a network configuration for use with the LED ladder system 650, and for use with other application devices, means are required for “tapping off” the AC power from the AC power cables running through the rails 652. Also, to provide for a viable communications network, means are required for receiving and applying programming and communication signals from and to the communications cables 822, respectively. With a distributed power and communications network as described in the channel system application, and as used with the network configuration 810, not only can electrical power be provided to devices such as LEDs, but communication signals may also be provided on the communications network and be utilized to control and reconfigure control among the various LED ladder panels 668 and controlling devices such as switches and the like. In fact, and as described in the copending International Patent Application No. PCT/JUS03/12210, entitled “SWITCHING/LIGHTING CORRELATION SYSTEM” and filed Apr. 18, 2003, control relationships between switches and lighting units may be reconfigured in a “real time” fashion. For all of these purposes, the connector modules 824 can be utilized. The connector modules can include DC power generation, processor means and associated circuitry, responsive to communication signals on the communications cables 822 and as received from controlling devices, so as to appropriately control lighting associated with the LED ladder panels 668. This control will occur in response to communication signals received from other application devices, such as controlling switches. The channel system described in the channel system application provides a means for distributing requisite power and for providing a distributed intelligence system for transmitting and receiving these communication signals in a manner which is readily useable by the network configuration 810.
Each of the connector modules 824 may correspond to any one of a number of connector modules described in the channel system application. For example, the connector module 824 may correspond to what is referred to in the channel system application as a receptacle connector module 144. The receptacle connector module 144 is described in the channel system application with respect to
As described in the channel system application, the communications network is configured so as to permit the three-channel dimmer switch assembly 832 to control activities associated with the specific connector module 828. That is, the patch cord 830, in combination with its connection to a connector port 826 of the specific connector module 828, provides a means for supplying DC power to the three-channel dimmer switch assembly 832, and also for coupling the switch assembly 832 to the electrical and communications network. Although the dimmer switch assembly 832 is coupled into the network through the specific connector module 828, the switch assembly 832 may be operating so as to control any one or more of the LED ladder panels 668, independent of their location relative to the specific connector module 828. In this regard, the connector ports 826 can be characterized as providing a “network tap” for the interconnection of the switch assembly 832 to the communications and power network. In the network configuration 810, the three-channel dimmer switch assembly 832 will be programmed so as to control one or more of the electronics units 814, thereby controlling DC power applied to the LED ladder panels 668 associated with the controlled electronics units 814.
For purposes of initially “programming” a “controlling/controlled” relationship between the three-channel dimmer switch assembly 832 and one or more of the LED ladder panels 668, an IR receiver 836 is associated with each one of the electronics units 814. Each IR receiver 836 is conventional in nature and adapted to generate electrical signals in response to spatially received IR signals. The electrical signals generated by the IR receiver 836 are applied as output signals on patch cord 838. These output signals, in turn, are applied as input signals to the associated electronics units 814. These received signals will be utilized by the processor circuitry within the electronics units 814 so as to determine to which incoming communications signals the specific electronics unit 814 should be responsive, for purposes of control of modified voltages applied to the associated LED ladder panel 668. For this purpose, it is necessary that the electronics unit 814 also be coupled to the communications network and the associated communications cables 822. For this purpose, each of the electronics units 814 is connected to a connector module 824 on the communications network through a conventional patch cord 834. The patch cord 834 is connected to one of the connector ports 826 of the associated connector module 824, and to another connector port or similar connecting means (not shown) within the electronics unit 814. Signals received by the electronics unit 814 from the communications network through patch cords 842 and interconnected connector modules 824 will be utilized by the electronic unit 814 to determine when and what voltage levels should be applied to the LEDs of the LED groups 784 associated with the corresponding LED ladder panel 668. For purposes of programming, although not shown in
As an example of the type of programming and control which may be utilized with the network configuration 810, it can be assumed that it is a user's desire to employ the dimmer switch assembly 832 so as to control the LEDs associated with the LED groups 784 for the LED ladder panel 668 under control of the electronics unit 814 identified also as electronics unit 844A. Assume that the same control is to be applied to the LED ladder panel 668 associated with the electronics unit 814 identified further as unit 844B. In this instance, the user may apply spatial programming signals to the IR receivers 836 associated with the electronics units 844A and 844B. As earlier described, such programming signals can be generated through the use of the wand 560 previously described with respect to
It can now be assumed that the user operates one or more of the rotary dials 840A, 840B and/or 840C of the dimmer switch assembly 832, for purposes of controlling the LEDs of the ladder panels 668 associated with the switch assemblies 844A and 844B. Signals indicating this activity by the user will be transmitted through the patch cord 830 from the dimmer switch assembly 832 to the communications network. Again, it should be noted that the signals are transmitted to the communications network from the patch cord 830 to the interconnected specific connector module 828 which, in turn, is electrically connected to communication cables running through the rails 652. The manipulation of the dimmer switch assembly 832 will then also cause communication signals, in the form of control signals, to be transmitted to the dimmer switch assemblies 844A and 844B through connector modules 846A and 846B, respectively. The communication signals will have appropriate data so that the specific dimmer switch assemblies 844A and 844B will recognize that these signals are to be utilized to appropriately control the associated LED ladder panels 668. These control signals will include sufficient data so as to indicate not only that the switch assemblies 844A and 844B should transmit voltage signals to the interconnected LED ladder panels 668 in response to the communication signals, but also the particular voltage levels which should be transmitted on the DC power cables 818. In accordance with the foregoing, the network connection configuration 810 represents one embodiment of a configuration for controlling the LED ladder panel 668 through the use of a distributed network and a controlling application device.
More specifically, with reference to connection configuration 810 in
In contrast, network connection configuration 850 takes advantage of the AC power running through the main rail 652. As earlier described, the connector modules 824 illustrated in
A further embodiment of a network connection configuration which may be utilized in accordance with the invention is illustrated and identified as network connection configuration 856 in
Like the configuration 810 shown in
Still further, and also in accordance with the invention, the network connection configuration 856 uses only one connector module (identified as connector module 858) for transmission of communication signals (including programming and desired power level signals) to the electronics units 814 associated with a particular structural channel rail 652. As shown in
Yet another embodiment of a network connection configuration in accordance with the invention is illustrated in
It should be noted that each of the network connection configurations described herein appears to have advantages and disadvantages relative to the other network connection configurations. However, from the concept of a possible preferred embodiment, the configurations 856 and 866 illustrated in
Each of the network connection configurations illustrated in
Extending outwardly from one side of the housing 874 is a connector port 876. The connector port 876 may be a conventional RJ45 connector port, and is adapted to receive patch cords, such as the patch cords 838 illustrated in
The IR mounting assembly 872 also includes an IR mounting bracket 878 which is located substantially above the housing 874. The IR mounting bracket 878 includes a horizontally disposed base 882. Connected to or otherwise integral with the horizontal base 882 on one side thereof is an inner flange 884 which depends downwardly from one side of the base 882. When the IR mounting assembly 872 is mounted to a support rail 670, the inner flange 884 is positioned flush against an exterior side of one of the upwardly extending legs 686 of the support rail 670. The mounting assembly 872 further includes a pair of outer flanges 886, also connected to or otherwise integral with the base 882 and depending downwardly therefrom on the same side of the base as the inner flange 884. However, the outer flanges 886 are positioned at opposing sides of the inner flange 884. For purposes of mounting the assembly 872 to the support rail 670, the outer flanges 886 are positioned on an interior side of an upwardly extending leg 686 of support rail 670. To then secure the mounting assembly 872 to the support rail 670, and reduce cantilever forces exerted on the flanges 884, 886, a cutting screw 890 or similar connecting means can connect the inner flange 884 to the upwardly extending leg 686. To then mount the housing 874 to the mounting bracket 878, a holding screw 888 can be received through an aperture extending through the base 882 and into the top of the housing 874. Although not specifically shown in the drawings, the holding screw 888 may be one which allows adjustment of the height of the housing 874, by permitting adjustment of the distance between the top of the housing 874 and the head of the holding screw 888. In accordance with the foregoing, one or more of the IR receivers 836 can be readily mounted to support rails 670. Further, with the particular mounting assembly 872 described herein, and in accordance with the invention, the IR receiver 836 can be mounted anywhere along a continuum of the elongated length of the support rail 670.
Turning to another aspect of the invention, a number of visual shield configurations were previously described herein. For example, visual shield configuration 320 was previously described with respect to
It is apparent from the concertina configuration 902 illustrated in
In the particular visual shield configuration 900 illustrated in
Although three particular means for providing the segment couplings 906 have been described herein and illustrated in
As earlier stated, the concertina configuration 902 includes a series of end clips 908, utilized to releasably couple the segment pairs 910 to support rails 670. Details regarding the coupling of the concertina segments 904 to the support rails 670 are illustrated in
As primarily illustrated in
The foregoing described one type of connection arrangement for releasably securing the concertina configuration 902 to support rails 670 through the use of end clips 908. Although this represents a connection arrangement according to the invention, other connection arrangements may also be realized, without departing from the scope of the principal novel concepts of the invention.
The visual shield configuration 900 as described in the foregoing paragraphs was illustrated in
The particular concertina configuration 902 illustrated in
Various aesthetically different and unique configurations can be provided by still further edge cuts for the segments 904. For example, all of the concertina segments 904 associated with one section 912 could be identically cut on their bottom edges. Alternatively, the bottom edges of the concertina segments 904 in a section 912 could have a variety of edge cuts. Still further, contours could be provided not only for bottom edge cuts, but also for cuts in the sides of the segments 904. An advantage exists in that although a number of different aesthetically pleasing designs can be formed through various contour cuts in the concertina segments 904, the means for supporting the concertina segments 904 through the support rails 670, and means for interconnecting adjacent segments 904, can remain the same, independent of what particular contour is utilized. Still further, as described subsequently herein, an advantage of the visual shield configuration 900 is associated with the capability of the concertina segments 904 to be “collapsed” together in somewhat of an “accordion” configuration. From this description, it will be apparent to those having skill in the fabrics and placemaking design arts that cutting processes can be designed in a manner so that the processes are relatively streamlined. That is, multiple concertina segments 904 can be simultaneously cut together, to the extent the segments 904 have identical contours. It should also be mentioned that by shaping the contours of the concertina segments 904, the manner in which light is transmitted through or around the concertina segments 904 (from lighting assemblies such as the LED ladder system 650), various lighting schemes can be implemented. In particular, the concertina configuration 902 and other configurations using the concertina effect can result in a number of novel and aesthetically pleasing forms and contours. Also, multiple expressions can be provided using the structure associated with the LED ladder system 650 and the visual shield configuration 900. For example, light bags and similar types of visual shield configurations (such as those previously described herein) may be employed with the structural arrangement utilizing the main structural channel rails 652, support rails 670 and connection arrangements such as the end clips 908.
As earlier described, visual shield configurations in accordance with the invention, such as the concertina configuration 902, result in economic advantages. For example, with the type of cutting which may be utilized to provide for a variety of optional contours, the process is somewhat “dematerialized.” That is, less waste occurs in the cutting processes. Also, it was earlier mentioned that advantages exist with respect to shipping and storage economics. These advantages are illustrated in the various configurations of the concertina segments 904 illustrated in
For purposes of shipping, the concertina configuration 902, when in the partially expanded state 952 as shown in
The foregoing has described various concepts which may be applicable to a number of different embodiments of visual shield configurations in accordance with the invention. In particular, the use of the concertina configuration 902 has been described, particularly with respect to its use with LED ladder panels 668 and configurations for releasably coupling the concertina configuration 902 to the support rails 670. Of course, various types of visual shield configurations may be utilized in place of the specific concertina configuration 902 described herein, without departing from certain of the principal concepts of the invention.
Another embodiment of a specific type of visual shield configuration which may be utilized in accordance with certain aspects of the invention is illustrated in
A laser cut of the section 962 can produce a series of what may be characterized as “lateral rows” of cut rectangles within the flat sheet configuration of the section 962. For example, with reference to the drawings, the cutting process can form a lateral row 964, having a lateral row 966 adjacent thereto. The lateral row 964 can be characterized as being comprised of a series of cut rectangles 968 which extend horizontally across the section 962. Each of the rectangles 968 can be characterized as having a lower edge 970 extending horizontally across the sheet (as viewed in
Each rectangle 968 can also be characterized as having an upper edge 974. On each lateral side of the rectangles 968, a side slot 976 extends “downwardly” (as viewed in
The section 962 can be laid “flat” as shown in
The visual shield configuration 960 illustrated in
Various concepts associated with LED ladder systems, network connection embodiments, visual shields having concertina effects and unique “cut” visual shields have been described in the foregoing paragraphs. With respect to the LED ladder systems, it has been shown that they are advantageous in ease of use. The systems can likely be installed by laypersons, without requiring assemblers having substantial electrical or other expertise. The ladder systems in accordance with the invention can also be relatively light weight and facilitate replacement. Still further, the ladder systems can provide a substantial amount of lighting, while still permitting substantial access to fixtures above the plane of the LED ladder systems. Also, because the elements of the ladder systems do not take up a substantial area of the ceiling plane, it is relatively easy to selectively place and, for example, relocate fixtures.
The LED ladder systems also provide for operation at low voltages, thereby enhancing their safety features. Light colors can be readily modified, as well as intensity, textures and hues. The ladder systems described herein also can provide for a substantially continuous plane of light, thereby providing better space lighting, absence of shadows and the like. As also described, the LED ladder systems are assembled such as to facilitate modifications in color pixilation intensity. These systems also facilitate the use of wayfinding features, providing capability of rapidly modifying light colors and lighting positions. Such wayfinding features or functions fall within the scope of “directions functions” or “space identification.”
The LED ladder systems in accordance with the invention also lend themselves to placemaking functions. That is, the systems can be enabled so as to readily influence the tone of commercial interiors, through colors and light intensity. In the same regard, for example, lighting enablement can be modified at different locations based on the detection of motion. Accordingly, spatial areas can be enabled for light only as needed. Still further, the LED ladder systems in accordance with the invention can readily respond to various sensor elements, such as those responsive to sunlight intensity and the like. In response to sensed properties, the lighting can be utilized to adjust environmental conditions.
Still further, the LED ladder systems in accordance with the invention are advantageous economical. With the use of LEDs and the minimal number of structural elements associated with the ladder systems, they provide for low energy consumption and longer life spans. Also, because of the reduction in AC power consumption, the ladder systems generate relatively little heat.
With respect to the network connections described herein, the specific embodiments show the capability of control of lighting in space from a broad sense (e.g. controlling all of the LED strip units 674 simultaneously as they exist within one LED ladder panel 668) to more specific or narrow control (such as individual control of LED strip units 674). With the control of the LED ladder systems through the network connections, relatively broad color spectrums are available, since the controls involve not only enablement, but also light intensity, color selection and the capability of varying other properties. Still further, the network connections described herein represent relatively “simple” electronic interconnections. Accordingly, reconfiguration of control/controlling relationships is relatively less complex, and does not require any rewiring or other structural modifications. Further, although the network connections have been described with respect to LED ladder systems, it is clear that concepts associated with the network connections may be utilized for other applications. For example, the network connection configurations shown herein, and other connection configurations in accordance with the invention, may control sound equipment, motion sensing devices, projection screens, skylight manipulations and various other devices.
With respect to the concept of utilizing visual shield configurations having concertina effects, and as disclosed herein, such configurations are relatively light weight. Also, they can be constructed so as to utilize a relatively small percentage of the spatial area of the ceiling plane. In this regard, they can be characterized as being relatively porous, and permit ceiling entry for utilities such as fire sprinklers, HVAC equipment and others. Also, with the particular embodiments described herein, the concertina configurations are compatible with structure as described in the channel system application. Still further, with the concertina configurations, and the relatively small percentage of spatial area used by the configurations, they present flexibility in activities which may involve access to structure and electronic components positioned above the plane of the concertina configurations. Such activities may involve, for example, replacement of lights, modifications for HVAC equipment and other activities. Further, as with the LED ladder systems, the concertina configurations described herein are essentially constructed as a “continuum.” Such construction facilitates installation.
As also described herein, the concertina configurations present some unique and aesthetically pleasing forms and expressions. For example, the concertina configurations may be utilized in combination with light bags. Also, as previously disclosed herein, various optional contours may be utilized, while still retaining the concertina effects. Still further, the concertina configurations present economical advantages. As described, the concertina configurations are capable of being collapsed. This facilitates shipment and storage. Also, in terms of manufacture and assembly, very little material is wasted. Also, the concertina configurations are not particular difficult to manufacture or otherwise modify.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the pertinent arts that other embodiments in accordance with the invention may be designed. That is, the principles of the invention 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.
This application claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/606,019 filed Aug. 31, 2004.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind | 371c Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US05/30727 | 8/31/2005 | WO | 00 | 1/22/2008 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60606019 | Aug 2004 | US |
