Supported From Ceiling Patents (Class 52/39)
  • Patent number: 6202361
    Abstract: A table which defines an upwardly facing work surface and an acoustic dome for use above the table, both of which are suspended from overhead and movable in a vertical direction downwardly to create a work area, and upwardly for storage whereby the dome nests within the table. The table includes a plurality of alternating writable and tackable work surfaces and is generally arcuate in shape. The dome includes an upwardly facing side and a downwardly facing side including a smooth material capable of reflecting sound towards the work area. The upwardly facing side of the dome includes a plurality of sound-absorbing ring members to minimize the entry of outside sound into the work area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Clarkson S. Thorp, Steven J. Beukema
  • Patent number: 6173935
    Abstract: A mounting device for attaching a fan or similar electrical fixture to a cathedral ceiling either at the center of the ceiling or in a pitched section thereof during construction is described. The mounting device comprises; 1) a rectangular box having an open top, a closed bottom, at least two opposing extended side walls and at least one short side wall of about the same depth as; 2) an integral electrical outlet box having a center screw hole, forming a part of the closed bottom and having its open end approximately coplanar with the outer surface of the closed bottom. According to a first embodiment, the extended sidewalls are of a shape to fit the peak of a cathedral ceiling and the mounting device includes two opposing short sidewalls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 6123154
    Abstract: A system is provided for maintaining a sprinkler head in a position to allow continued operation during a fire in the event that the support structure for the sprinkler head fails or is otherwise removed. The support system includes a central hub adapted to receive a sprinkler head, a first leg attached to the central hub and having first and second ends. The support system also includes first and second ends having fastening devices adapted to attach the ends to the support structure. The fastening devices are configured to break away from the support structure in the event of support structure failure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: PNM, Inc.
    Inventors: Norman J. MacDonald, III, Peter M. MacDonald, Paul S. F. Silcox
  • Patent number: 6119784
    Abstract: A support system for positioning a sprinkler head relative to a support structure in a ceiling, floor, or wall includes a central hub adapted to receive the sprinkler head, a first leg attached to the central hub and having a first end configured to be attached to the support structure, a second leg attached to the central hub and having a second end configured to be attached to the support structure, the second leg being spaced-apart from and substantially parallel to the first leg. The support system combines increased flexibility in installation with increased support for the sprinkler head during operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: PNM, Inc.
    Inventors: Norman J. MacDonald, III, Peter M. MacDonald, Paul S. F. Silcox
  • Patent number: 6112478
    Abstract: A protective divider for protecting adjacent vehicles is provided including a divider and a suspensions mechanism coupled between the divider and a ceiling of a garage such that the divider resides between doors of two vehicles situated within the garage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Curt Piper
  • Patent number: 6082055
    Abstract: An ice rink covering system utilizes a plurality of support mechanisms for sets of non-flexible insulated panels which are interconnected by a hinge mechanism between each pair of adjacent panels. The support mechanisms are connected to the panels by lifting units for selectively moving the panels in an accordion fashion for either edge to edge contact when the panels cover a rink or side to side contact when the panels are in their stored condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2000
    Assignee: Irum Ice, Inc.
    Inventor: L. Patrick Kelly
  • Patent number: 6050035
    Abstract: A seismic brace having a brace arm for fastening to a support rod on one end and a structural portion of a building, on the other end, is attachable to the support rod without disconnecting it by a base bracket hinged to the brace arm and a locking bracket hinged to the brace arm or the base bracket to overlay the base bracket. Both the base bracket and locking bracket have a slot extending from an edge towards the middle with one slot offset form the other by ninety degrees (90.degree.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Tomarco Contractor Specialties, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Thompson, Keith L. Watkins
  • Patent number: 6029414
    Abstract: A seismic fixture clamp enables light fixtures and the like to be securely affixed to the T-bars of a suspended ceiling system, thereby ensuring that the fixtures do not separate from the T-bars in the event of an earthquake generating seismic shocks to the suspended ceiling system. The seismic fixture clamp, although easily and quickly installed, adds structural strength to the overall T-bar framework to reduce or prevent twisting and separating of the T-bars, and includes support lips configured to securely affix light fixtures to the T-bars, thereby strengthening the suspended ceiling system against seismic shocks without requiring additional wires or chains to secure the fixtures directly to an overhead structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 29, 2000
    Inventor: Frank A. MacLeod
  • Patent number: 6027091
    Abstract: A curtain clip device (10) includes a top flange portion (14) with two inwardly directed channels (16) and (18) bounding of the upper surface (20) of the top flange portion (14). The inwardly directed channels (16) and (18) partially enclose the upper surface (20) of the top flange portion (14) to form a recess (24) sized to receive a support structure. A diagonally downward extending lever (26) protrudes from the outside lower corner of adjacent channel (18). Rotation of the lever (26) causes the top flange portion (14) to be flexed, allowing the clip device (10) to engage with a support structure. A curved lower jaw (30) depends downward from the lower surface (22) of the top flange portion (14) and has a free end (32) configured to form a jaw clasp (34). A stationary clasp (36) depends from the lower surface (22) of the top flange portion (14), which is designed to selectively mate in an interlocking configuration with the jaw clasp (34) of the curved lower jaw (30) thereby securing a protecting curtain.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Scott A. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6025558
    Abstract: An electrical cable management system is disclosed for dressing electrical cables, such as the cables of wiring harnesses, on appropriate support structures, such as within electrical connector cabinets. A cable support member has a hanger for hanging the support member on a support structure. At least one cable tie member embraces a cable and ties the cable to the cable support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventors: Dennis Lee Doye, Michael J. Miskin, J. Michael Nauman, Dennis D. Taylor
  • Patent number: 6014841
    Abstract: A cover apparatus (10) is provided which is easily and quickly installed, is simple to use, and is cost effective for selective closing of an attic opening (14) and for providing a thermal and dust barrier. The cover apparatus (10) preferably includes structure (12), adapted for placement over an opening (14) defined by peripheral wall or ceiling surfaces (16), and a plurality of snap fasteners (18a, 18b, 18c, 18d) for detachably coupling the structure (12) to the surfaces (16). The structure (12) includes a panel (20) presenting an inboard face (22), continuous, circumscribing sidewalls (24) extending from the inboard face (22) of panel (20), and a continuous, circumscribing flange (32) extending transversely and outwardly from the outer margin (28) of the sidewalls (24). The flange (32) includes an outermost lip (36) configured for firmly engaging the surfaces (16) when the structure (12) is coupled to the surfaces (16).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Inventors: George W. McCoy, Jr., George W. McCoy, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5986212
    Abstract: An electrical wire support assembly for routing wire along building interior structures includes a plurality of hangers that suspend electrical wiring from building interior structures. The hangers are fastened to the interior structures in a hanger row that follows a desired wiring path. Each hanger includes a slightly trapezoidal frame section integrally connected to a fastening flange. The hangers are shaped to support electrical wires strung through the frame sections and to allow elongated plastic cover sections to snap over the frame sections. The cover sections conceal and protect the electrical wiring. C-shaped couplers fit collar-like around the joined ends of the cover sections and hold the cover sections together end-to-end. Each fastening flange includes fastener holes for receiving fasteners such as nails or screws. Side walls of each hanger frame section include an integrally outwardly extending horizontal ridge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas E. Lhota
  • Patent number: 5939671
    Abstract: A ceiling mounting assembly for holding electrical devices in place on a joist that includes an electrical box having a base of three planar surfaces, each planar surface at a different depth, a first fastener device for temporarily securing the electrical box in place, a ceiling medallion for covering the electrical box, a second fastener device for temporarily securing the ceiling medallion to the electrical box, and a fixation device for securely fastening the electrical box and the ceiling bezel to the joist.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 5927041
    Abstract: A mounting rail, particularly for use in building construction, is formed by an elongated rail member (2) of approximately C-shaped cross section having a rear wall (3) with spaced openings (7a-7d) therethrough and pair of side walls (4a, 4b) extending from and at substantially right angles to the rear wall (3). The side walls have free edge sections spaced from the rear wall bent inwardly towards one another and forming cross members (5a, 5b) extending generally parallel to the rear wall with the inner edges of the cross members spaced apart and forming a slot (6) extending in the elongated direction of the rail member (2). Each side wall (4a, 4b) has shaped recesses (8a, 8b) extending for the length of the rail member (2). The shaped recesses (8a, 8b) are arranged symmetrically to one another in the opposite sidewalls (4a, 4b) and have a depth of (d) which does not exceed the width (b) of the cross members (5a, 5b) defining the slot (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Hilti Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Andres Sedlmeier, Fritz Hermann, Armin Hoffmann, Helmut Mirsberger, Jakob Dischinger
  • Patent number: 5924246
    Abstract: A merchandising display hanger is disclosed which includes a central portion, a portion extending downwardly from the central portion and a portion extending upwardly from the central portion. The said downwardly extending portion has a central aperture for receiving and positioning a hook to suspend a merchandising display and a pair of opposed cut-out regions to enable a cord connected to the assembly to be wrapped laterally around the assembly for purposes of storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: ES Holdings Company
    Inventors: David C. Jurgens, Charles G. Vaughn
  • Patent number: 5916094
    Abstract: A one-piece fixture mounting block to be used in conjunction with a standard ceiling mounted electrical box for mounting a light fixture or ceiling fan in the center of a cathedral ceiling. The mounting block features vertical walls which offer an upper perimeter that conforms with an 18.degree. ceiling angle. The mounting block can easily be modified to conform to an 8.degree. ceiling angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Arlington Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas J. Gretz
  • Patent number: 5845979
    Abstract: A structual support-or joist-suspendable storage case. An open-top box unit is suspended for pivotal motion and fixation between rafters, joists, etc. The suspension and movement mechanism includes hooks and, optionally, detents (or studs). In the preferred embodiment, only identical hooks are used in braces or pair-assemblies, one of each pair mounted to a side of the box unit, and its complement fixed to a structural element in a position best suited to receive the box-mounted device. Two or more of the assemblies are featured per unit. Alternatively, the assemblies may consist of a hook and studded hook combination where either hook or studded hook is placed on the box and its complement is fixed to a structural element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Robert E. Longhurst
    Inventors: Robert E. Longhurst, Fredric T. Morelle
  • Patent number: 5806269
    Abstract: A method for providing a fixture mount can be used to provide a flush surface adjacent the ridge of a cathedral ceiling at the position where a ceiling fan or light fixture is to be supported. The method can be used to fit any common cathedral ceiling pitch and allows the user to mount a ceiling fan or fixture in a location such as the center of a room in an aesthetically pleasing manner. The method can employ a monolithic member or, alternatively, a base mount member and one or more pitch mount members stacked sequentially, with each successive pitch mount varying the pitch of the fixture mount employed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: James M. Corridon
  • Patent number: 5772169
    Abstract: An acoustic ceiling compression strut system and method to help a suspended office building ceiling withstand an earthquake. The system includes two elongated tubes in a telescoping relationship and an adjustable locking connector placed between the two tubes and having a U-shape with two legs and a base. One tube is placed to abut a deck of the office building while the connector abuts the bottom of the tube. Thereafter, the second tube is lowered to abut a grid and the legs are bent around the top of the second tube thereby locking the two tubes and the connector and causing them to become a rigid strut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: William Edward Blockley
  • Patent number: 5772295
    Abstract: A storage cabinet for guns or the like wherein the storage cabinet includes rollers for pivotingly suspending the storage cabinet on a set of tracks located between adjacent joists so that the storage cabinet can be swung from a first accessible position where one can access the contents of the storage cabinet to a second inaccessible position. In the inaccessible position, the gun-storage cabinet can be slid to an out-of-sight overhead space defined by adjacent joists to hinder access to the storage cabinet as well as to conceal the gun-storage cabinet from view.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: Daniel S. Sundmark
  • Patent number: 5768843
    Abstract: A system for mounting a series of ceiling panels beneath a floor supporting joist having laterally extending support surfaces includes at least one resilient mounting clip suspendable from the support surfaces. The mounting clip is formed with a pair of spring biased hooked arms constructed and arranged to self-locate upon the support surfaces, and a retainer loop positioned in spaced relationship to the joist. A panel holding framework assembly is supported from the retainer loop and includes a panel holding framework supporting the ceiling panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1998
    Inventor: Jerome J. Dziedzic
  • Patent number: 5758852
    Abstract: A loudspeaker suspension system for suspending a plurality of individual loudspeakers from an overhead support in spaced apart relationship for adjustment to different related positions and orientations relative to one another to selectively focus the acoustic throw of the loudspeakers. The system includes a plurality of frame members mounted to the respective loudspeakers and a plurality of connectors for connection between respective adjacent pairs of frame members. The connectors include a pair of elongated oppositely disposed connecting arms for connection from their respective distal ends with the respective loudspeakers and further include a pivot joint connecting the medial ends of the connector arms together so that the respective connecting arms may be pivoted to angle the respective adjacent pair of loudspeakers relative to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1998
    Inventor: Andrew Terry Martin
  • Patent number: 5713157
    Abstract: A deck hanger utilizes two sheet metal spring hanger clips to hook behind parallel accessible edges of a deck installation. Each clip has a body which includes a rectangular hole. A rectangular bar is positioned through the holes and U-shape blocking clip straddles each hanger clip body securing the bar in place. The bar spans a downwardly opening channel formed by the deck panels and supports cable trays, piping or other installations utilizing what might normally be dead space. Each clip also has a hook portion with a back having a barb and a nose portion no thicker than the sheet metal from which it is formed to enable grasping of the edges without distortion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 3, 1998
    Assignee: Erico International Corporation
    Inventors: Martin van Leeuwen, Gerardus E. C. van Gijsel
  • Patent number: 5667181
    Abstract: A trapezium and like structure spring metal hanger clip includes two upwardly extending legs which are interconnected at their lower ends by a short bottom section. One leg at its top includes a generally horizontal arm extending toward the top of the other leg and adapted to be positioned through a hole in the top of the other leg. The horizontal arm is generally channel shape in sectional configuration and the upper edge includes serrations adapted to engage the upper edge of the hole in the top of the other leg, to prevent the clip from being sprung open without the other leg moving upwardly with respect to the arm. The clip may be sprung open in one form and the horizontal arm inserted through the trapezium and like structure and into the hole at the top of the other leg. In this manner both legs are supported by the horizontal arm. In another form, the clip is already open. A nut is snapped into place between the legs at the lower end and held against vertical movement and rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 16, 1997
    Assignee: Erico International Corporation
    Inventors: Martin van Leeuwen, Geradus Emanual Cornelus Van Gijsel
  • Patent number: 5628153
    Abstract: An improved storage bin system comprising a plurality of spaced apart parallel pieces of timber used in construction of a building. A plurality of storing receptacles are provided. A structure is for mounting each of the storing receptacles between two of the adjacent pieces of timber. The storing receptacles can hold articles therein, instead of on a floor in a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Inventor: Donna V. Fontanez
  • Patent number: 5623789
    Abstract: A light support assembly for installation and use in a timber construction roof eaves overhang; of the type having a pair of adjoining roof rafters, a facia board, and a soffit board or plane for positioning a soffit board if desired or anticipated; is disclosed. The support assembly is provided with a coupling having a biased channel for firmly sliding and supporting at least two frame tracks for extension and retraction within the spacing provided within adjacently constructed roof rafters in a roof overhang area, and for attachment to each of the rafters. The coupling, then supported by the secured tracks, supports and has attached to it an electric box for receiving lighting or electric fixture or wiring in the roof area where the assembly is inherently designed to be installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 29, 1997
    Inventors: Steven A. Kidwell, John N. Forrester
  • Patent number: 5595028
    Abstract: A truss roof and floor joist storage device which provides access to and creates convenient storage space for a large variety of typically stored items from boxes to sporting equipment to tools and seasonal items. The device includes a large shelf which rotates up between the trusses of a garage or up against the floor joists in a basement. It has an optional pulley to raise and lower the shelf and two latches for safety. It is aesthetically compatible in either finished (drywalled) or unfinished space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Inventor: Walter A. Handzlik
  • Patent number: 5592788
    Abstract: A fixture mount for providing a flush surface adjacent the ridge of a cathedral ceiling at the position where a ceiling fan or light fixture is to be supported is disclosed. The fixture mount is capable of fitting any common cathedral ceiling pitch and allows the user to mount a ceiling fan or fixture in a location such as the center of a room in an aesthetically pleasing manner. The fixture mount can be formed as a monolithic member or, alternatively, with a base mount member and one or more pitch mount members stacked sequentially, with each successive pitch mount varying the pitch of the fixture mount such that, when the pitch of a particular cathedral ceiling is known, the fixture mount of the present invention can be readily modified to correspond to the pitch of the ceiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventor: James M. Corridon
  • Patent number: 5557902
    Abstract: The universal attachment clip will act as an attachment device for attaching micro cornice trim to each of the major grid systems. The clip will allow attachment and registration of each of the micro cornice trim profiles to 9/16", 15/15", or bolt-slot grid. The registration of the micro cornice profiles to the grid can be at different angular positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: Armstrong World Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian E. Witmyer
  • Patent number: 5522577
    Abstract: A mounting assembly for supporting a ceiling fan from a ceiling includes a support beam located inwardly of the ceiling surface at least a distance t. An electrical box having a bottom wall is directly joined to and supported from said support beam. The box has side walls extending from the bottom wall through the ceiling substantially to the exposed ceiling surface and terminating in an open end. A rigid metal plate or disk member adapted for supporting and mounting a ceiling fan is positioned over the open end of the box. The disk member is of a size sufficient to have a peripheral portion extending radially beyond the side walls of the box; and, a plurality of mounting screws extend from the metal disk member through the interior of the box into connected engagement with the beam for supporting the disk member from the beam without reliance on the electrical box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 4, 1996
    Assignee: The Lamson & Sessions Co.
    Inventor: Mark Roesch
  • Patent number: 5501042
    Abstract: The mounting of the invention comprises inner and outer shells, the former adapted to receive internally thereof a television-receiving set or a video projector and externally thereof operating mechanism for a door mounted to hinge at one end of an elongate viewing or projecting opening formed in the bottom of such inner shell, and the latter enclosing the former and being formed externally to visually comport with the ceiling so as to be decoratively compatible therewith in its protuberance below the ceiling. As such, the shells are preferably made of a moldable sheet material, the outer shell being reinforced peripherally of its upper expanse and peripherally of the viewing or projecting opening by respective structural frames, and the outer shell being adapted to fasten to an attachment frame that is itself adapted to be fastened to the exposed ceiling surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 26, 1996
    Inventors: Keith I. Gustaveson, Elsie E. Gustaveson
  • Patent number: 5456383
    Abstract: A dispenser and display device is suspended by a ceiling element that is inserted in a drop ceiling in place of a standard drop ceiling panel. The ceiling element has a number of channels formed to run in different directions, so that the dispenser can assume various orientations. The dispenser has a main body that has gravity feed, article-holding trays movably mounted inside so that the trays can be released without removal from the main body. The trays can be rearranged relative to the main body so that dispensing of articles can take place from the front, rear, or both sides of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Assignee: Resources Inc. In Display
    Inventors: Dennis J. Polvere, William V. Silver
  • Patent number: 5434356
    Abstract: A method for assisting installation of an electrical fixture to a mounted electrical junction box. The electrical fixture carries an electrical device having electrical wires to be coupled to electrical lead wires extending from the junction box. The junction box has tabs carrying threaded attachment holes. The fixture has openings alignable with the attachment holes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventor: Gerald I. Zekowski
  • Patent number: 5423507
    Abstract: A ceiling mounted bracket is adapted to be fixed under a corrugated ceiling formed of U-shaped channels having flaring sides. The bracket which has a U-shaped cross-section corresponding to one channel is formed of two lateral faces and a joining face provided with a perforation suitable for hanging a ceiling fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Inventors: Bertrand Florent, Roger Proulx
  • Patent number: 5396959
    Abstract: A sprinkler system, for cooperation with an array of ceiling tiles, essentially features a mount of tiles including at least one with a central opening, a web disposed above the mount of tiles and including a central hub and legs extending therefrom to the corners of a frame with a dimensional profile like that of the tiles, a number of ceiling wires supporting the frame in spaced relation to a ceiling, a sprinkler head supported within the central hub and extending through the central opening, and apparatus for connecting the sprinkler head to a source of fluid. Preferably, the apparatus includes a rigid stationary water grid and supply and a flexible hose connecting the sprinkler head to the water grid and supply. Preferably, the flexible hose is an annealed stainless steel braid hose having an open pitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Assignee: PNM, Inc.
    Inventor: Norman Macdonald
  • Patent number: 5333418
    Abstract: An apparatus for installing a recessed smoke detector within a surface so that when installed, the smoke detector is substantially completely hidden from view and flush with said surface. Two mounting plates are attached to opposite sides of a housing. A pair of mounting clips attached to a cover are insertable, respectively, into slots in each of the mounting plates. The smoke detector is attached to the cover. The cover has the appearance of a loudspeaker-like grille or other similar device so that smoke can enter through apertures to reach the smoke detector. The cover after mounting is substantially flush with a surface, such as a ceiling. With the smoke detector substantially completely recessed within a surface and the cover connected to the housing, the smoke detector is substantially completely concealed, and protected from vandals and tamperers. The apparatus is easily installed, which is an important advantage with the increased need for smoke detector installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 2, 1994
    Inventor: Ronald Chambers
  • Patent number: 5313759
    Abstract: A suspended ceiling system for use in a cleanroom or other application incorporates a framework formed from lengthwise and crosswise frame members which form open areas for mounting components such as air filter modules, light fixture panels, blank panels and the like. The ceiling system includes splice members for connecting the frame members together and clamps for securing the components to the frame members. Suspension members, which preferably engage corresponding fastening members disposed within the frame members, suspend the framework from the ceiling, defining an interior space above the framework. Substantial loads, such as utilities, robotics and wall partitions may be suspended from the framework by clips that engage with the frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Inventor: Francis H. Chase, III
  • Patent number: 5282331
    Abstract: A display module for attachment to the framing members adjacent a lighting fixture. The module is comprised of a light transmissive trough which is suspended beneath the lighting fixture and receives its light from the fixture without substantially impairing the illumination available to the area beneath the light fixture. The modules may be used individually or combined with other modules to create different geometric patterns of display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 1, 1994
    Assignee: M & M Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael J. Fell
  • Patent number: 5263290
    Abstract: A modular assembly applicable to building constructions combines fire-safety sprinkler system piping, heating and cooling system heat exchangers, and lighting system fixtures and communication system wiring into an integrated unit installation. A channel which defines an enclosed duct for the passage of air is mounted in association with sprinkler system piping while a condensate pan is mounted in association with heating and cooling system heat exchangers. An air diffuser is positioned vertically between the channel and pan to direct environmental and make-up air about the heat exchangers for conditioning and a lighting fixture is positioned below the condensate pan. The channel, pan, and lighting fixture are all in standardized lengths and are maintained in a vertical alignment below the sprinkler system piping by a plurality of brackets, straps, and fasteners, various of the brackets being mounted over the channel and piping while others are mounted below the pan and lighting fixture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventor: Ernest A. Gardner
  • Patent number: 5242219
    Abstract: A storage device for use between exposed rafters of a basement or like ceiling is disclosed. The device includes a base and drawer each of rigid welded wire construction. The base is secured by wood screws to the bottom surface of adjacent rafters to span between them. The base includes tracks in the form of welded wires which define a pair of parallel slots. The wires also define an enlarged opening into the slots of the front end of the base. The drawer at the bottom of its rear end has a pair of spaced apart projecting T-shaped hooks for releasably and slidably engaging the track. The hooks also allow the drawer to hang vertically from the front end of the base and to be manually removed and reinserted into engaging with the slots through the wide openings. The drawer may be pivoted upward on the hooks and slid with the hooks engaged in the slots to a storage position atop the base and between the rafters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1993
    Inventor: Leonard P. Tomaka
  • Patent number: 5240058
    Abstract: The invention provides a system to divide a ceiling of a building into smoke containment cells utilizing suspended and interconnected curtains. Resilient jawed clips are utilized to simply and firmly attach the curtains, mounted on rigid supporting bars, to roof deck supporting joists or girders. Methods are employed within the system to seal around intersecting ducts or pipes, to abutting curtains and to the underside of the roofing deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1993
    Assignee: Construction Consultants & Contractors, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas T. Ward
  • Patent number: 5226626
    Abstract: Corner protector structure is mounted within each ceiling panel to provide for enhanced strength, durability, and appeal of a drop ceiling construction. The corner protectors in association with the ceiling panels are formed with a top wall spaced from and parallel a bottom wall to complementarily receive a ceiling panel therebetween, with reinforcing leg structure projecting beyond the top wall for reinforcement and enhanced appeal of the organization. A modification of the invention includes a fan assembly rotatably mounted medially of the reinforcing leg structure to enhance air distribution within a room containing the organization.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1993
    Inventor: Dennis F. Driscoll
  • Patent number: 5183233
    Abstract: The invention provides a support for hanging an electrical fixture to a ceiling or wall and a method for suspending the fixture. The support comprises a novel panel which is intended to be affixed to the grid work of a house and a support affixed to the panel which holds the electrical fixture. A slot is provided on the rear of the panel to hold the panel flush against a flat surface by carry therein wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Inventor: Joseph LaPalomento
  • Patent number: 5146723
    Abstract: An interior wall mounting device comprising an elongated element having a base plate and at least one side flange projecting laterally from the base plate. The free edge of the side flange is turned inwardly to form a channel opening in a direction normal to the base plate and outwardly therefrom. The channel is adapted to have a plurality of studs securable laterally to the channel and shaped to receive the edge of a planar sheet securable against the studs to form a wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 1991
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1992
    Inventors: Frank D. Greenwood, Kazimir Kobielski
  • Patent number: 5139223
    Abstract: A support system for mounting a television monitor on a ceiling or wall is described in various embodiments providing various options for ceiling or wall mounting and for interconnection with a television monitor. Means are provided for adjusting the viewing angle of the television monitor about a horizontal axis and in some embodiments swivel means are provided for rotating the monitor about a vertical axis to further accomodate optimal viewing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1992
    Inventor: Marty Sedighzadeh
  • Patent number: 5107687
    Abstract: A system suitable for air conditioning rooms comprising a heating/cooling unit, distribution pipes and discharge units is, in the interest of increasing flexibility of installation and operation, constructed in modular fashion, and has a shape that permits installation on top of a suspended ceiling. In addition, the flow of air through each separate discharge unit can be individually adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Assignee: Ventilplafon, S.A.
    Inventor: Francesco Candeloro
  • Patent number: 5104079
    Abstract: In a supporting clamp for mounting constructional components, in particular pipe conduits, a fixing means is formed by a bar extending transversal to the beam and being arranged at the lower surface of the beam flange. On both sides of the beam flanges (2a) of the beam (2) longitudinally extending supporting sheet members (3,4) are arranged suspended on rounded bearing bars (5,6). The supporting sheet members (3,4) have longitudinal slots (9, 10). A web plate (8) is arranged in these slots which is secured against vertical displacement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1992
    Assignee: Lisega GmbH
    Inventor: Hans H. Hardtke
  • Patent number: 5090163
    Abstract: A smoke curtain assembly includes an extruded main supporting member permanently mounted in a ceiling structure, a smoke shield, and an extruded shield holder which is securely but removably attached to an upper edge of the smoke shield. The smoke shield is removably mounted in the main supporting member by tilting the smoke shield and lifting it and the attached shield holder through a slot-like opening between two upward extending flanges on the main supporting member. By shifting and straightening the smoke shield and the shield holder, the shield holder bridges the slot-like opening and downward extending flanges of the shield holder abut the upward extending flanges on the main supporting member to prevent lateral movement of the shield holder and smoke shield. When the shield holder and smoke shield are thus removably mounted, fasteners are included to prevent vertical and longitudinal movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 25, 1992
    Inventor: Kevin New
  • Patent number: 5067685
    Abstract: The invention constitutes to a modular electrical connector box mounting system particularly adapted for securable, re-positionable, suspension upon a roof-like structure, for use in conjunction with other suspended equipment, such as air conditioning equipment, which is suspended upon a I-beam and a related truss structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1991
    Assignee: Fibrelon, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert G. Johnston, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5022173
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a sign that can be hung from a suspended ceiling. Specifically, the cantilevered and/or counterbalanced sign rests securely in the inverted "T" rail of a suspended ceiling tile grid, and can easily be inserted or removed without damaging or destroying the ceiling tile. At the same time, the cantilevered and counterbalanced structure of the present sign permits the sign to rest securely on grid rails with varying support ledge designs, shapes and dimensions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 11, 1991
    Assignee: Pittsburgh Tag Company
    Inventor: Brian E. Pfeiffer