Abstract: In a ceiling grid for a suspended ceiling having 2 ft.×2 ft. openings that support panels, a connection in the grid between a main beam and 4 ft. cross beam is made tighter than a connection in the grid between a 2 ft. cross beam and a 4 ft. cross beam. Both connections use the same connector, but with a different stop position on the connector.

Abstract: An end-to-end connection for main beams in a ceiling grid for a suspended ceiling. A connector is formed at the end of a beam by combining a clip, fastened to the beam, with a configuration in the end of the beam. The connections are engaged to form a connection. The connection can be disengaged and reengaged.

Abstract: An end-to-end connection for main beams in a ceiling grid for a suspended ceiling. A connector is formed at the end of a beam by combining a clip, fastened to the beam, with a configuration in the end of the beam. The connections are engaged to form a connection. The connection can be disengaged and reengaged.

Abstract: In a panel ceiling, a grid that supports panels has main beams and cross beams. In assembly, the main beams are directly attached to an overhead structure and the cross beams and panels are assembled onto the main beams. Stepped slots in the main beams enable the cross beams to be locked to the main beams to keep the cross beams and panels aligned.

Abstract: A compression relief section in a beam in a grid for a suspended ceiling that permits controlled collapse of the section during a fire, whereby the ceiling is kept relatively intact. The section has a channel formed from the web portion of the beam, and a crushed bulb with a hump, along with a flange, that fold from compression forces, while resisting such forces. There is no interference between the folding portions and the ceiling panels, or drywall, when the section collapses.

Abstract: A clip for attachment to the end of a main beam for a grid in a suspended ceiling. The beam has an inverted T cross section. The clip engages an identical clip on the end of another main beam to form an end to end connection. The clip has a tongue and channel that engages with a tongue and channel in the other clip of the connection.

Abstract: A hook type assembly that interlocks a pair of intersecting cross-beams and a main beam in a grid for a suspended ceiling. A gapped ridge in a clip on each cross-beam engages the other gapped ridge in a vertical movement that is part of a hooking action while the assembly is formed. The assembly can be optionally made to provide for expansion during a tire.

Abstract: A locking connection used to join the cross runners and main runners of a suspended grid ceiling system. The main runners are provided with periodic openings through which the cross runner ends are inserted and thereby locked together. Each cross tee end connector contains a resilient finger which engages the main runner upon insertion. Further, each connector has apertures and raised detents which will mate with those of a like opposing cross tee end connector when both are inserted through the same main runner opening. A locked grid intersection can be disengaged by depressing the resilient finger holding the main runner, rotating the main runner over the cross runner end connector, and pushing the cross tee end vertically free.

Abstract: A beam for grid in a suspended ceiling that has an increased effective beam height over prior art beams. The beam has a peak at the top, which conforms to the shape of a standard light fixture box frame supported by the beam in the ceiling. The beam does not interfere with the proper support of the fixture frame on the beam flanges.

Abstract: A cold forming process includes mechanically joining two strips of metal. The process entails two roll passes. The first pass lances and forms short locking areas through both strips of metal. The second pass compresses and flairs the metal at these areas to complete a mechanical interlock. This method can provide a row of closely spaced fastenings at high speed. It is applicable in improving the torsion strength of existing tee grid products. It is also applicable in creating more efficient rollformed shapes by providing a means to use more than one metal strip.

Abstract: A grid framework for a suspended ceiling wherein reinforced cross members are allowed to expand; without collapsing or buckling, during a fire. Clips at the end of the members create barriers that are successfully overcome, in stages, to relieve any excess longitudinal compressive forces capable of being built up by the reinforced members.