Abstract: A chandelier frame provides, in one embodiment, a first frame member and a second frame member that are connected by a plurality of arms at joints. The joints are plastically and asymmetrically deformed to locate each of the frame members in axially remote planes. In another embodiment, this invention provides a first and second frame member having arms therebetween that are rotated from a first plane defined by the frame members into a second plane that is substantially transverse to the first plane. The arms are joined to a locking structure that enables the first and second frame members to be maintained in an elastically deformed shape defining, in one preferred embodiment, a bowl-like shape. In another embodiment, a frame member is held in an elastically deformed, stressed state by an arm interconnected with interengaging locking structures on the arm.

Abstract: A joining device for a chandelier ornaments provides a pair of retaining plates, typically cut from flat stock material, having ornaments located therebetween. The ornaments are secured against radial movement relative to the retaining plates by a series of retaining pins that pass through holes in the ornaments and holes in the plates. The plates are compressed so that it least one of the plates is in elastic deformation and the plates are secured to each other in a compressed, elastically deformed, state, by a grommet.

Abstract: A stretchable chandelier ornament string assembly provides a plurality of elongated spring elements joined by a common runner and formed from a continuous piece of flat spring material stock. The runner is attached to a chandelier frame and each of the spring elements engages a chandelier ornament string. Displacement of the spring elements generates tension in the ornament strings to maintain the ornament strings in substantial predetermined alignment. The spring assembly can be formed into a non-planar orientation by the chandelier frame to generate a variety of shapes and patterns of chandelier string attachment locations.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for powder coating the surfaces of objects provides a spray source of charged powder coat particles that engage the surface of the object. The thickness of the layer of particles can be regulated by measuring the resulting electrostatic surface potential generated by the particles. The layer of particles is treated by applying a balanced air flow positively and negatively-charged air ions that neutralize and transport surface particles from the object. The resulting surface has an electrostatic surface potential that is substantially equal thereon. This equal electrostatic surface potential translates into an even thickness coating along the object's surface. The treated surface is then cured by conventional heating and cooling processes to form a finished powder coat finish.

Abstract: A skin package according to this invention is formed by providing a backing sheet and positioning an article on the backing sheet at an appropriate point. An intermediate sheet of porous substantially inelastic material is then overlaid on the article. The intermediate sheet is then covered with a skin sheet that becomes elastic and adheres to the backing sheet at predetermined locations upon exposure to predetermined conditions. These predetermined conditions do not substantially alter the inelasticity of the intermediate sheet so that the intermediate sheet prevents the skin sheet from encapsulating the article.

Abstract: The invention provides a chandelier having rod-mounted glass ornaments. The ornaments have decorative patterns and rims constructed and arranged to mate in a face-to-face relationship when the ornaments are positioned upon the rod in the manner such that the decorative patterns are secured in predetermined alignment. The ornaments may be constructed so that identical ornaments mate with one another. Also, sets of mating glass ornaments are provided for providing multiple combinations of decorative arrangements.

Abstract: A chandelier assembly and kit includes a first and second plate, each having opposing substantially planar surfaces. First and second openings are provided in the first and second plates, respectively. These openings are constructed and arranged so that an ornament bearing arm is biased into locking engagement and secured against rotation, but preferably is free of engagement with the planar surfaces of the plates when assembled. The openings are configured so as to provide a restrictive portion that frictionally engages the arm to prevent rotation when the arm is positioned at a specified angle. The openings also each include a non-restrictive portion that allows the arm to readily pass without frictional engagement. Assembly and disassembly is permitted simply by biasing the arm into and out of frictional engagement with the plates.

Abstract: Novel chandelier frameworks are provided. The chandelier frameworks include arms and plates, as well as rings and disks mechanically and disengagingly securing the parts of the framework to one another. The plates and arms may include interlocking slots and projections held together by locking disks.

Abstract: A chandelier having tensioned strings of ornaments is provided. The chandelier includes a frame having first and second attachment locations and at least one string of ornaments extending between the first and second attachment locations and tensioned in a predetermined pattern by corresponding tensioning structures such as springs attached to the strings of ornaments.

Abstract: A chandelier frame made from rings and spokes is provided. The rings are adapted for supporting ornaments, and the spokes are attached to the rings for supporting the rings, preferably coaxially. The rings and spokes are attached to one another by interengaging locking means which mechanically and detachably secure the rings and spokes to one another. The rings and spokes may be formed entirely from nonstressed metal, and most preferably are cut from flat sheet metal.