CA1181216A - Spring clip for t bar ceiling arrangement - Google Patents
Spring clip for t bar ceiling arrangementInfo
- Publication number
- CA1181216A CA1181216A CA000413929A CA413929A CA1181216A CA 1181216 A CA1181216 A CA 1181216A CA 000413929 A CA000413929 A CA 000413929A CA 413929 A CA413929 A CA 413929A CA 1181216 A CA1181216 A CA 1181216A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- clip
- bar
- members
- bead
- grid
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
- 239000011324 bead Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 45
- 230000000717 retained effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 229910000639 Spring steel Inorganic materials 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000000543 intermediate Substances 0.000 abstract description 22
- 230000001965 increasing effect Effects 0.000 abstract description 3
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229910000851 Alloy steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 241000896693 Disa Species 0.000 description 1
- 238000005452 bending Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229940000425 combination drug Drugs 0.000 description 1
- 108010036922 cytoplasmic linker protein 115 Proteins 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009434 installation Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000009418 renovation Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B9/00—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation
- E04B9/06—Ceilings; Construction of ceilings, e.g. false ceilings; Ceiling construction with regard to insulation characterised by constructional features of the supporting construction, e.g. cross section or material of framework members
- E04B9/12—Connections between non-parallel members of the supporting construction
- E04B9/122—Connections between non-parallel members of the supporting construction one member passing through the other member, both members laying at least partly in the same plane
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Connection Of Plates (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
The present invention discloses a novel clip for use in the securement of ceiling panelling systems of the type that use T bar members having an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web.
The clip has two arms to form a generally L-shape, with each arm having detente means for releasably engaging a T bar member. The clip is positioned above the flange of the T
bar and allows the T bar to be easily removed if required.
The clip can be advantageously used to connect intermediate T bar members used to subdivide a larger supported grid net-work of cross T's and main T's. These intermediate T's may be secured to either the main or cross T's, thereby increas-ing the flexibility of the system, as various placements and orientations of light fixtures are possible. Previous arrangements have normally resulted in damage of the inter-mediate T's if removed.
The present invention discloses a novel clip for use in the securement of ceiling panelling systems of the type that use T bar members having an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web.
The clip has two arms to form a generally L-shape, with each arm having detente means for releasably engaging a T bar member. The clip is positioned above the flange of the T
bar and allows the T bar to be easily removed if required.
The clip can be advantageously used to connect intermediate T bar members used to subdivide a larger supported grid net-work of cross T's and main T's. These intermediate T's may be secured to either the main or cross T's, thereby increas-ing the flexibility of the system, as various placements and orientations of light fixtures are possible. Previous arrangements have normally resulted in damage of the inter-mediate T's if removed.
Description
1 This invention relates to suspended ceiling panelling ~ystems of the type employing T bar members secured in a grid system. In particular, this invention relates to a clip used ~or securing one T bar member to a second T bar member dispo~ed at an angle to the first member.
Many different structures have been used for securing main T bar membere and cross T bar members in a grid system of a su3pended ceiling panelling system. Most of these structures utilize a projection on one T bar member which passes through an aperture in tha second T bar member and provides a lock therewith. These structures usually employ detente means of some sort for securing the connection of the T bar~ or rely on various types of cut-outs in one T and particular shapes of the projections on another T which cooperate in a manner that the T bars may be locked in the~
desired position. This locking cr securing of the connec-tion is required as it is necessary to assure that with-drawal of the one T from -the other T does not inadvertently occur. Such a failure of the system is extremely daneerous particularly during fires. Therefore, any system for secur-ing a first T and a second T requires a etructure which results in a secured connect~on whereby one T cannot back out of the other.
Another point to consider is the fact that the grid systems now used, only require su~pension approximately every 4 or 5 feet and the intermediate subdividing T bars within this 4 or 5 foot square area are not directly suspended. The ceiling panels normally extend the full 4 or 5 feet in one diraction and vary in width. Intermediate T's are posi-tioned parallel to the edge of the panels to - 1 - ~A~
Many different structures have been used for securing main T bar membere and cross T bar members in a grid system of a su3pended ceiling panelling system. Most of these structures utilize a projection on one T bar member which passes through an aperture in tha second T bar member and provides a lock therewith. These structures usually employ detente means of some sort for securing the connection of the T bar~ or rely on various types of cut-outs in one T and particular shapes of the projections on another T which cooperate in a manner that the T bars may be locked in the~
desired position. This locking cr securing of the connec-tion is required as it is necessary to assure that with-drawal of the one T from -the other T does not inadvertently occur. Such a failure of the system is extremely daneerous particularly during fires. Therefore, any system for secur-ing a first T and a second T requires a etructure which results in a secured connect~on whereby one T cannot back out of the other.
Another point to consider is the fact that the grid systems now used, only require su~pension approximately every 4 or 5 feet and the intermediate subdividing T bars within this 4 or 5 foot square area are not directly suspended. The ceiling panels normally extend the full 4 or 5 feet in one diraction and vary in width. Intermediate T's are posi-tioned parallel to the edge of the panels to - 1 - ~A~
2~i 1 ~ubdivide the ~quare area. Within the larger area, lighting fixtures may be placed which are generally the ~ize of a ceiling panel. A~ can be appreciated, the direction of the ceiling panel~ can ea~ily be changed during installation of the sy~tem by changing the orientation of the intermediate T'e. However, once a ~y~tem i~ in~talled, the prior art etructllre~ have been difficult to change. The main reaeon for requiring a change in the orientation of the panel~ i~
to improve the po~itioning of light fixture~ with varying office layout~. Thi~ ha~ presented problem~ in the prior ~tructures a~ removal of the intermediate T's within this larger area has been difficult and often re~ult~ in the intermediate T's becoming damaged and u~ele~.
The pregent invention provides a ~imple method and ~tructure for alleviating these problems~ Thi~ improvement can be i-nstalled when the entire ~ystem i9 aæsembled or may be ueed to renovate existing system~.
According to the pre~ent invention a clip for ~ecuring two grid member~ u~ed in ceiling panelling syqtem~ i~
di~clo~ed. At leae-t one of the grid members i~ a T bar having an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web. The clip ha~ two arm~ and at lea~t one of the arm~ ha~ detente mean~ for engaging the bead of a T bar member. The detente meane i~ applied over the bead of -the T bar member to ~ecure the clip and the other arm includee mean~ for engaging the 3econd grid member. The clip, when po~itioned adjacent the junction of the grid member~ and in engagement therewith, secure~ the member~ in their relative po~ition~.
According to an a~pect of the invention, a clip for u~e in a ~uspended ceiling ~y~tem having a grid sy~tem of 1 main T bar members interconnected by cross T bar members defining a larga square area with intermediate T bar members subdividing this area for supporting ceiling panels is disclosed. The T bar members have an upper bead portion and the clip has two arms joined at an angle relative to one another. The angle between the arms generally corresponds to the orientation of the main and cross T bar members of the grid syst~m. Each arm ha~ detente means for engaging the T bar members with the arms cooperating with the bead of the respective T bar members whereby an intermediate T
member can be secured -to a main or cross T bar member and maintained in a particular configuration by said clip engaging both T bar members.
According to an aspect of the present invention a generally L shaped clip for securing two T bar grid members used in ceiling systems where each T bar member has an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web, is disclosed. This clip has two arms to define the L shape with each arm having detente means for engaging the bead of a T bar member. The detente means is cammable over the bead of a T bar member to secure the clip and allows the clip to be positioned ad~acent the junction of a first T and a second T of a ceiling grid system and cammed over such members to secure said members in their relative position. Therefore, the clip provides the function or means of securing a f'irst T and a second T
without the use of a projection on one T positively engaging an aperture in the other T. The use of a detente means for engaging the first T bar member with this detente means being downwardly cammable over the bead of the T bar member 1 allows the second T to be removed by pushing on the lower surface of the second T, thereby disengaging the detente means from the bead. Therefore, the intermediate T members of a larger su3pended grid system may be removed and repos~
itioned such that the ceiling panels run perpendicular to the previous orientation. This provide~ increased flexibil-ity with recpect to the panelling ~ystem and in particular with rsapect to the po~ition and orientation of light fixtures. A~ the larger suspsnd grid area i8 square the T
bars defining this area are not removed and do not require the clip.
According to a further aspect of the invention the combination of a first T bar member and a second T bar member used to define the grid for receiving ceiling panels in a suspended ceiling panel ~ystem and a clip is disclosed.
Each T bar member has an upper bead, a depending web and a lower flange extending either side of the web. The clip is bent to form two arms with a common junction and the angle between the arm~ generally correspond~ to the angle between the first T and the ~econd T of the grid ~ystem. Each arm include~ detente meanc for engaging a T bar member about the bsad and web and at leact one arm of the clip includes locking mean~ Eor engagine a second T member whereby said clip maintain~ caid second T and fir3t T member~ eecured in the grid system.
The clips used in this invention are preferably made of a low alloy steel, which after undergoing various die cutting and bending operation~ is heat treated to provide a epring ~teel. Other material~ may prove equally sffective, however, a clip made of spring steel is preferred.
~8~ 6 l Preferred embodimenta of the invention are shown in the drawings wherein;
Figure l ia a partial perapective view of a ~u~pended ceiling panelling ~ystem;
Figure 2 ia an exploded perapective view of two main T
bar membera interconnected by a cross T bar member with one end of the croas T bar member aecured by a clip;
Figure 3 ia Q perspective view of the cro3s T bar member and a main T bar member maintained in a particular orientation by the clip;
Figure ~ is a view similar to Figure 3 from a differ-ent angle illuqtrating the manner in which a first T andaecond T are maintained and aecured by the clip member;
Figure 5 is a perapective view of a modified clip for connecting a T member to a wall edge member of the grid systems and Figure 6 i~ a cros~-section of the modified clip in uae.
The ceiling grid aystem illu~trated in Figure l ia made up of a plurality of T bar members including main T bar membera ~ and crosa T bar membera 2. Generally, this type of grid ayatem ia laid out where the maln T bar membera ~, in combination with the croaa membera 2, define a grid network o-f a square configuration generally shown aa 13 which ia subdivided into rectangular elongate regiona 15, the si~e of the deaired ceiling panel. Becau~e the large grid ayatem is aquare, a perimeter ia defined by the main T
and crosa T membera with intermediate membera 17 ~eing able to aubdivide the area by extending from croaa T member -to crosa T member and parallel to the main T or from main T to 1 main T and paral]el to the cross T' 8 . When this type of system is installed it is highly desirable that these inter-mediate T bar members be releasably secured to either the cross T's or main T's, so that the orientation of the ceiling panels 6 can be altered according to the users needs. Reasons for this flexibility in changing the orient-ation of the ceiling panels is multi-fold. However, the main reason ia that light fixtures which are generally placed within one of the~e subdivided regions can be orient-ated in either direction, thereby increasing the probabilityof having a light properly positioned above a work surface.
Previou~ly, these intermediate T's had two male prcjec-tions, one at either end of the T for cooperating with apertures in the main T or cross T's. The main and cross T bar members generally have their webs prepunched to define these aper-tures for receiving the projections of the intermediate T
bar members or cross T bar members.
~ As can be seen in Figure 1, the panels 6 are removable and may be replaced by a similarly sized light fixture.
Becau~e light fixtures are heavier -than the panels, the intermediate bar members must positively engage either the main T's or the crose T's to avoid these members backing off and the light fixture falling. Details of hou the clip positively engages the T bar m0mber will be discussed with respect to Figure 2, 3 and ~.
As shown in Figure 2, a T bar member 20 is shown for securement between the two main T bars ~a and 4b. One end of the member 20 ha~ been provided with a male connection portion 22 which is of a ~hape to pass through aperture 2~
in the main T bar ~a and be positively retained therein.
. ~8~2~
1 Tha opposite end of member 20 would normally have a similar projection for passing into aperture 26 of the T bar member 4b. However, this projection has been sheered from the end of the member. In place of this projection the clip gener-ally shown as 100, has been provided having arms 102 and 104, each having re~pective detente means or engagement portions 103 and 105. Each detente means works in a similar fashion and the engagement of this detente means with the T
bar member will be described with respect to 103. However, detente means 105 operates in a like manner. Detente means 103 has a downwardly angled camming lip 107, which in com-bination with the flat portion of arm 102, allows the clip to be cammed over bead 6b of the T bar member 4b. A detente means is provided with a channel area 109, to grip about the bead 6b when the clip is snapped thereover. This clip is cammed downwardly over the bead 6b and snaps about the bead once the bead is located in the channel area 109. The clip further includes a projection 111, which maintains the position of the clip and the as~ociated member 20 in the length of the main T bar 4b. This projection 111 extends into the aperture 26 of the T bar member thereby positively maintaining the posltion of the T bar 20. Although aperture 26 is si~ed to be larger than the thickness of the projec-tion 111, a projection from the T bar to the opposite side of the cros~ member 4b also passes through aperture 26 and, once in~erted, provides a relatively tight fit within the aperture 26. Arm 10~ of the olip has been provided with a further barb or detente detente clip 115 which cooperateq with aperture 2~ provided in the T bar member 20. When detente means 105 is cammed downwardly over the bead of T
2~6 1 bar member 20, the clip may be adjusted in the length of the T bar member until thi~ detente is engaged within the aper-ture, thereby accurately locating the clip in the length of the T bar member 20. Detente 115 further assure~ that the clip will not slide longitudinally off the member 20 as a portion pro~ect~ into the aperture and thereby alleviate~
the po~sibility of the clip remaining with T bar 4b as member 20 backs out of the clip.
In Figure 3 the main T bar 4b has been engaged by clip 100 which also positively engage~ T bar member 20. ~oth detente means 105 and 103 have been cammed over the respect-ive beads of the T bar members and a~ euch, po~itively connect these members in the desired configuration. Align-ment projection 111 passes through the aperture 26 of the T
bar member 4b.
In Figure 4 a slightly different view iB seen and the clip i8 positively as~ociated with the respective T bar members. The lever of detente means 115 is proJecting within the aperture 28 of the T bar member 20 and thereby is 80 associated with the T bar member 20 such that this member cannot back away from the main T bar member 4b. In some ca~e~ a screw or rivet i~ used to maintain the position of the clip and grid member and an aperture in the arm of the clip has been provided for this purpose.
Each T bar member has a bead 6, a web 7 and a lower flange 9 which extends either side of the web. The partic-ular engagement of the member 20 to a main T or to a cross T
is shown where the lower flange 9 of the T bar member 20 has been offset a-t either end of the member. This i9 used to increase the streng-th of the connection and to minimize unsightly ~eams in the grid system.
12~5 1 The detente member~ 103 and 105 have cut out areas which define straps which positively grip a similarly shaped bead of a T bar. These straps reduce the force necessary to cam the detente membars downwardly over the bead of a T bar.
If preferred, one of the detente members may be longitudin-ally applied to the bead of a T bar, however, a positive gripping of the bead is always preferred. Therefore, although the clip has been described with respect to the detente member being cammable downwardly over the bead of a T bar, these members could be slidably applied at the end of a T bar to grip the respective beads.
The clip of the present invention positively grips about the bead of a grid member and the arms of the clip contact the web of the grid member to embrace the gripping action and any distribute forces oppoeing the connection.
The spring steel material of the clip, the overall size of the clip, the modified upper gripping area having a cut out portion and the two gensrally planar arms function to provide a posi~ive engagement of two grid members which is easy to install.
The modified clip 200 of Figure 5 is similar to the clip previously described, however, only one detente m0ans on spring type engagement member 103c is used. ~he other arm has been provided with a downwardly projecting engage-ment member 202 to be forced between a wall 220 and a wall edge member 222 as shown in Figure 6. In this manner the T
bar member 224 is positively connected to the wall edge member 222 as 103c grips the bead of the T bar. An aperture 206 has been provided in the arms of clip 200 having the detente means whereby a metal screw can be used to secure 1 the clip to the T bar to avoid the T bar backing out.
Engagement member 202 is generally planar and has a pointed lower edge to facilitate insertion behind the wall edge member 222. In this way the clip is secured relative to the wall and wall edge member and maintains the position of the end of an inserted grid member. Previously this member would be loosely placed on the wall edge member or secured by ~crews or rivets. The modified clip simplifie~ secure-ment of the grid member to the wall edge member.
The clip of the present invention is advantageously u~ed on the T bar members used to subdivide the generally square grid system previously described. These subdividing members can then be oriented either perpendicular to the main T' 8 or parallel therewith to subdivide the area into elongate rectangles or as desired. ~ecause one end of the subdividing members are secured to a main T or a cross T by -the clip portion with the opposite end having a projection, removal of the subdividing members i~ simplified as one merely ha~ -to exert an upward force at the end ~upported by the clip which allowq it to be diqconnected from the a~soci-ated T bar member and the other end may be removed in a ~s, ~imple manner. This ie a much ~impler operation than the prevloue practice of having two male projectione on tne subdividing members, each pas~ing throueh aperture~ respect-ive to T bar member~ whereby removal wa~ very dif~'icult and required either twi~ting of these member~ or spreading of the a~sociated T bar members. The alignment projection has an upper camming surface to assist in removal of an interme-diate T bar. Although it i~ possible to have both ends of the intermediate member~ secured to either cros~ T's or main 2~6 ~ ! .
1 T's by tha spring clip~ it is not necessary as removal of one projection is fairly simple when the other end ha~
already been disas~ociated with its respective main T or cross T.
l'hese clips are particularly usePul in new office structures which may be subject to changing conditions and changing requirements of the user. It is also useful for renovations. Although the clips are more expensive than merely having a projection on the intermediate members, this cost is recovered many time~ over should changes in the grid system be nece~sary.
Although preferred embodiments of the invention were described herein in detail it is understood by those skilled in the art that variations may be made thareto without departing from the spirit of the invention or the scope of the appended claims.
to improve the po~itioning of light fixture~ with varying office layout~. Thi~ ha~ presented problem~ in the prior ~tructures a~ removal of the intermediate T's within this larger area has been difficult and often re~ult~ in the intermediate T's becoming damaged and u~ele~.
The pregent invention provides a ~imple method and ~tructure for alleviating these problems~ Thi~ improvement can be i-nstalled when the entire ~ystem i9 aæsembled or may be ueed to renovate existing system~.
According to the pre~ent invention a clip for ~ecuring two grid member~ u~ed in ceiling panelling syqtem~ i~
di~clo~ed. At leae-t one of the grid members i~ a T bar having an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web. The clip ha~ two arm~ and at lea~t one of the arm~ ha~ detente mean~ for engaging the bead of a T bar member. The detente meane i~ applied over the bead of -the T bar member to ~ecure the clip and the other arm includee mean~ for engaging the 3econd grid member. The clip, when po~itioned adjacent the junction of the grid member~ and in engagement therewith, secure~ the member~ in their relative po~ition~.
According to an a~pect of the invention, a clip for u~e in a ~uspended ceiling ~y~tem having a grid sy~tem of 1 main T bar members interconnected by cross T bar members defining a larga square area with intermediate T bar members subdividing this area for supporting ceiling panels is disclosed. The T bar members have an upper bead portion and the clip has two arms joined at an angle relative to one another. The angle between the arms generally corresponds to the orientation of the main and cross T bar members of the grid syst~m. Each arm ha~ detente means for engaging the T bar members with the arms cooperating with the bead of the respective T bar members whereby an intermediate T
member can be secured -to a main or cross T bar member and maintained in a particular configuration by said clip engaging both T bar members.
According to an aspect of the present invention a generally L shaped clip for securing two T bar grid members used in ceiling systems where each T bar member has an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web, is disclosed. This clip has two arms to define the L shape with each arm having detente means for engaging the bead of a T bar member. The detente means is cammable over the bead of a T bar member to secure the clip and allows the clip to be positioned ad~acent the junction of a first T and a second T of a ceiling grid system and cammed over such members to secure said members in their relative position. Therefore, the clip provides the function or means of securing a f'irst T and a second T
without the use of a projection on one T positively engaging an aperture in the other T. The use of a detente means for engaging the first T bar member with this detente means being downwardly cammable over the bead of the T bar member 1 allows the second T to be removed by pushing on the lower surface of the second T, thereby disengaging the detente means from the bead. Therefore, the intermediate T members of a larger su3pended grid system may be removed and repos~
itioned such that the ceiling panels run perpendicular to the previous orientation. This provide~ increased flexibil-ity with recpect to the panelling ~ystem and in particular with rsapect to the po~ition and orientation of light fixtures. A~ the larger suspsnd grid area i8 square the T
bars defining this area are not removed and do not require the clip.
According to a further aspect of the invention the combination of a first T bar member and a second T bar member used to define the grid for receiving ceiling panels in a suspended ceiling panel ~ystem and a clip is disclosed.
Each T bar member has an upper bead, a depending web and a lower flange extending either side of the web. The clip is bent to form two arms with a common junction and the angle between the arm~ generally correspond~ to the angle between the first T and the ~econd T of the grid ~ystem. Each arm include~ detente meanc for engaging a T bar member about the bsad and web and at leact one arm of the clip includes locking mean~ Eor engagine a second T member whereby said clip maintain~ caid second T and fir3t T member~ eecured in the grid system.
The clips used in this invention are preferably made of a low alloy steel, which after undergoing various die cutting and bending operation~ is heat treated to provide a epring ~teel. Other material~ may prove equally sffective, however, a clip made of spring steel is preferred.
~8~ 6 l Preferred embodimenta of the invention are shown in the drawings wherein;
Figure l ia a partial perapective view of a ~u~pended ceiling panelling ~ystem;
Figure 2 ia an exploded perapective view of two main T
bar membera interconnected by a cross T bar member with one end of the croas T bar member aecured by a clip;
Figure 3 ia Q perspective view of the cro3s T bar member and a main T bar member maintained in a particular orientation by the clip;
Figure ~ is a view similar to Figure 3 from a differ-ent angle illuqtrating the manner in which a first T andaecond T are maintained and aecured by the clip member;
Figure 5 is a perapective view of a modified clip for connecting a T member to a wall edge member of the grid systems and Figure 6 i~ a cros~-section of the modified clip in uae.
The ceiling grid aystem illu~trated in Figure l ia made up of a plurality of T bar members including main T bar membera ~ and crosa T bar membera 2. Generally, this type of grid ayatem ia laid out where the maln T bar membera ~, in combination with the croaa membera 2, define a grid network o-f a square configuration generally shown aa 13 which ia subdivided into rectangular elongate regiona 15, the si~e of the deaired ceiling panel. Becau~e the large grid ayatem is aquare, a perimeter ia defined by the main T
and crosa T membera with intermediate membera 17 ~eing able to aubdivide the area by extending from croaa T member -to crosa T member and parallel to the main T or from main T to 1 main T and paral]el to the cross T' 8 . When this type of system is installed it is highly desirable that these inter-mediate T bar members be releasably secured to either the cross T's or main T's, so that the orientation of the ceiling panels 6 can be altered according to the users needs. Reasons for this flexibility in changing the orient-ation of the ceiling panels is multi-fold. However, the main reason ia that light fixtures which are generally placed within one of the~e subdivided regions can be orient-ated in either direction, thereby increasing the probabilityof having a light properly positioned above a work surface.
Previou~ly, these intermediate T's had two male prcjec-tions, one at either end of the T for cooperating with apertures in the main T or cross T's. The main and cross T bar members generally have their webs prepunched to define these aper-tures for receiving the projections of the intermediate T
bar members or cross T bar members.
~ As can be seen in Figure 1, the panels 6 are removable and may be replaced by a similarly sized light fixture.
Becau~e light fixtures are heavier -than the panels, the intermediate bar members must positively engage either the main T's or the crose T's to avoid these members backing off and the light fixture falling. Details of hou the clip positively engages the T bar m0mber will be discussed with respect to Figure 2, 3 and ~.
As shown in Figure 2, a T bar member 20 is shown for securement between the two main T bars ~a and 4b. One end of the member 20 ha~ been provided with a male connection portion 22 which is of a ~hape to pass through aperture 2~
in the main T bar ~a and be positively retained therein.
. ~8~2~
1 Tha opposite end of member 20 would normally have a similar projection for passing into aperture 26 of the T bar member 4b. However, this projection has been sheered from the end of the member. In place of this projection the clip gener-ally shown as 100, has been provided having arms 102 and 104, each having re~pective detente means or engagement portions 103 and 105. Each detente means works in a similar fashion and the engagement of this detente means with the T
bar member will be described with respect to 103. However, detente means 105 operates in a like manner. Detente means 103 has a downwardly angled camming lip 107, which in com-bination with the flat portion of arm 102, allows the clip to be cammed over bead 6b of the T bar member 4b. A detente means is provided with a channel area 109, to grip about the bead 6b when the clip is snapped thereover. This clip is cammed downwardly over the bead 6b and snaps about the bead once the bead is located in the channel area 109. The clip further includes a projection 111, which maintains the position of the clip and the as~ociated member 20 in the length of the main T bar 4b. This projection 111 extends into the aperture 26 of the T bar member thereby positively maintaining the posltion of the T bar 20. Although aperture 26 is si~ed to be larger than the thickness of the projec-tion 111, a projection from the T bar to the opposite side of the cros~ member 4b also passes through aperture 26 and, once in~erted, provides a relatively tight fit within the aperture 26. Arm 10~ of the olip has been provided with a further barb or detente detente clip 115 which cooperateq with aperture 2~ provided in the T bar member 20. When detente means 105 is cammed downwardly over the bead of T
2~6 1 bar member 20, the clip may be adjusted in the length of the T bar member until thi~ detente is engaged within the aper-ture, thereby accurately locating the clip in the length of the T bar member 20. Detente 115 further assure~ that the clip will not slide longitudinally off the member 20 as a portion pro~ect~ into the aperture and thereby alleviate~
the po~sibility of the clip remaining with T bar 4b as member 20 backs out of the clip.
In Figure 3 the main T bar 4b has been engaged by clip 100 which also positively engage~ T bar member 20. ~oth detente means 105 and 103 have been cammed over the respect-ive beads of the T bar members and a~ euch, po~itively connect these members in the desired configuration. Align-ment projection 111 passes through the aperture 26 of the T
bar member 4b.
In Figure 4 a slightly different view iB seen and the clip i8 positively as~ociated with the respective T bar members. The lever of detente means 115 is proJecting within the aperture 28 of the T bar member 20 and thereby is 80 associated with the T bar member 20 such that this member cannot back away from the main T bar member 4b. In some ca~e~ a screw or rivet i~ used to maintain the position of the clip and grid member and an aperture in the arm of the clip has been provided for this purpose.
Each T bar member has a bead 6, a web 7 and a lower flange 9 which extends either side of the web. The partic-ular engagement of the member 20 to a main T or to a cross T
is shown where the lower flange 9 of the T bar member 20 has been offset a-t either end of the member. This i9 used to increase the streng-th of the connection and to minimize unsightly ~eams in the grid system.
12~5 1 The detente member~ 103 and 105 have cut out areas which define straps which positively grip a similarly shaped bead of a T bar. These straps reduce the force necessary to cam the detente membars downwardly over the bead of a T bar.
If preferred, one of the detente members may be longitudin-ally applied to the bead of a T bar, however, a positive gripping of the bead is always preferred. Therefore, although the clip has been described with respect to the detente member being cammable downwardly over the bead of a T bar, these members could be slidably applied at the end of a T bar to grip the respective beads.
The clip of the present invention positively grips about the bead of a grid member and the arms of the clip contact the web of the grid member to embrace the gripping action and any distribute forces oppoeing the connection.
The spring steel material of the clip, the overall size of the clip, the modified upper gripping area having a cut out portion and the two gensrally planar arms function to provide a posi~ive engagement of two grid members which is easy to install.
The modified clip 200 of Figure 5 is similar to the clip previously described, however, only one detente m0ans on spring type engagement member 103c is used. ~he other arm has been provided with a downwardly projecting engage-ment member 202 to be forced between a wall 220 and a wall edge member 222 as shown in Figure 6. In this manner the T
bar member 224 is positively connected to the wall edge member 222 as 103c grips the bead of the T bar. An aperture 206 has been provided in the arms of clip 200 having the detente means whereby a metal screw can be used to secure 1 the clip to the T bar to avoid the T bar backing out.
Engagement member 202 is generally planar and has a pointed lower edge to facilitate insertion behind the wall edge member 222. In this way the clip is secured relative to the wall and wall edge member and maintains the position of the end of an inserted grid member. Previously this member would be loosely placed on the wall edge member or secured by ~crews or rivets. The modified clip simplifie~ secure-ment of the grid member to the wall edge member.
The clip of the present invention is advantageously u~ed on the T bar members used to subdivide the generally square grid system previously described. These subdividing members can then be oriented either perpendicular to the main T' 8 or parallel therewith to subdivide the area into elongate rectangles or as desired. ~ecause one end of the subdividing members are secured to a main T or a cross T by -the clip portion with the opposite end having a projection, removal of the subdividing members i~ simplified as one merely ha~ -to exert an upward force at the end ~upported by the clip which allowq it to be diqconnected from the a~soci-ated T bar member and the other end may be removed in a ~s, ~imple manner. This ie a much ~impler operation than the prevloue practice of having two male projectione on tne subdividing members, each pas~ing throueh aperture~ respect-ive to T bar member~ whereby removal wa~ very dif~'icult and required either twi~ting of these member~ or spreading of the a~sociated T bar members. The alignment projection has an upper camming surface to assist in removal of an interme-diate T bar. Although it i~ possible to have both ends of the intermediate member~ secured to either cros~ T's or main 2~6 ~ ! .
1 T's by tha spring clip~ it is not necessary as removal of one projection is fairly simple when the other end ha~
already been disas~ociated with its respective main T or cross T.
l'hese clips are particularly usePul in new office structures which may be subject to changing conditions and changing requirements of the user. It is also useful for renovations. Although the clips are more expensive than merely having a projection on the intermediate members, this cost is recovered many time~ over should changes in the grid system be nece~sary.
Although preferred embodiments of the invention were described herein in detail it is understood by those skilled in the art that variations may be made thareto without departing from the spirit of the invention or the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (15)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A generally "L" shaped clip for securing two "T" bar grid members used in ceiling panelling systems where the "T"
bar members have an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web, said clip having two arms to define the "L" shape with each arm having detente means for engaging the bead of a "T" bar member, said detente means being cammable over the bead of a "T" bar member to secure the clip, whereby said clip, when pos-itioned adjacent the junction of two "T" bar members of a ceiling grid system and cammed over such members secures said members in their relative position.
bar members have an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web, said clip having two arms to define the "L" shape with each arm having detente means for engaging the bead of a "T" bar member, said detente means being cammable over the bead of a "T" bar member to secure the clip, whereby said clip, when pos-itioned adjacent the junction of two "T" bar members of a ceiling grid system and cammed over such members secures said members in their relative position.
2. A clip as claimed in claim 1 including means for posi-tively maintaining said clip with respect to the longitudin-al axis of one of said "T" members whereby said clip is retained adjacent the end of such member.
3. A clip as claimed in claim 2 wherein said maintaining means includes a detente means in at least one arm of the clip which cooperates with the web of a "T" member to posi-tively locate and maintain said clip,
4. A clip as claimed in claim 3 wherein said detente means cooperates with an aperture in the web of the "T" mem-ber.
5. A clip as claimed in claims 1, 2 or 3 wherein said clip includes a projecting alignment member at the junction of said arms to cooperate with one "T" member to locate said clip in the length of such one "T" member.
6. A clip for use in a suspended ceiling system having a grid system of main "T" bar members interconnected by cross "T" bar members for supporting ceiling panels, said "T" bar members having an upper bead portion, said clip having two arms joined and at an angle relative to the other arm, the angle of said arms generally corresponding to the orienta-tion of the main and cross "T" bar members of the grid sys-tem, each arm having detente means for engaging such "T" bar members which cooperate with the bead of the respective "T"
bar members, whereby a cross "T" bar member and a main "T"
bar member are maintained in a particular configuration by said clip engaging both "T" bar members.
bar members, whereby a cross "T" bar member and a main "T"
bar member are maintained in a particular configuration by said clip engaging both "T" bar members.
7. In combination, a first "T" bar member and a second "T" bar member, used to define a grid for receiving ceiling panels in a suspend ceiling panel system, and a clip, each "T" bar member having an upper bead, a depending web and a lower flange extending either side of said web, said clip being bent to form two arms with a common junction, the angle between said arms generally corresponding to the angle between the first "T" bar member and said second "T" bar member of the grid system, each arm including detente means for engaging a "T" bar member about said bead and web, at least one arm of said clip including locking means for engaging the web of a "T" bar member whereby said clip main-tains said first "T" and second "T" members connected in the grid system.
8. In combination as claimed in claim 7, said clip fur-ther including alignment means adjacent the junction of said arms for co-operating with an aperture of first main "T" bar to maintain the position of said clip with respect to the length of said first "T" bar member.
9. In combination as claimed in claim 6, 7 or 8, wherein said clip is made of spring steel and is generally "L"
shaped.
shaped.
10. In combination as claimed in claim 7, wherein said detente means includes an upper portion for snugly receiving the bead of a "T" bar member and a downwardly angled camming lip which in combination with said arm is snapped over the bead and maintains said detente means about said bead.
11. In combination as claimed in claim 10, wherein each detente means includes a center cut out portion thereby engaging the bead of a "T" bar member at two distinct posi-tions.
12. A clip for securing two grid members used in ceiling panelling systems and at least one grid member is a "T" bar member having an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web, said clip having two arms, at least one arm having detente means for engaging the bead of a "T" bar member, said detente means being applied over the bead of a "T" bar member to secure the clip, the other arm of said clip having means for engaging the other grid member whereby said clip, when positioned adjacent the junction of the grid members and in engagement therewith secures said members in their relative positions.
13. A clip as claimed in claim 12 including means for pos-itively maintaining said clip with respect to the longitu-dinal axis of one of said "T" members whereby said clip is retained adjacent the end of such member.
14. A generally "L" shaped clip for securing two grid mem-bers used in ceiling panelling systems with at least one of the grid members being a "T" bar member having an upper bead, an intermediate web and a lower flange extending either side of the web, said clip having two arms to define the "L" shape, one of said arms having detente means for engaging the bead of a "T" bar member, said detente means being applied over the bead of a "T" bar member to secure the clip, the other arm of said clip having an offset engagement member entending downwardly for engaging a grid member secured to a wall, whereby said clip, when positioned adjacent the junction of two grid members and engaged with such members secures said members in their relative pos-ition.
15. A clip as claimed in claim 14 including means for pos-itively maintaining said clip with respect to the longitu-dinal axis of one of said "T" members whereby said clip is retained adjacent the end of such member.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000413929A CA1181216A (en) | 1982-10-21 | 1982-10-21 | Spring clip for t bar ceiling arrangement |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000413929A CA1181216A (en) | 1982-10-21 | 1982-10-21 | Spring clip for t bar ceiling arrangement |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1181216A true CA1181216A (en) | 1985-01-22 |
Family
ID=4123803
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000413929A Expired CA1181216A (en) | 1982-10-21 | 1982-10-21 | Spring clip for t bar ceiling arrangement |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1181216A (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2004061250A3 (en) * | 2002-12-19 | 2004-10-14 | Owens Corning Fiberglass Corp | Accessible ceiling grid system |
| US10106982B2 (en) | 2017-03-13 | 2018-10-23 | Rockwool International A/S | High strength grid member for suspended ceilings |
-
1982
- 1982-10-21 CA CA000413929A patent/CA1181216A/en not_active Expired
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2004061250A3 (en) * | 2002-12-19 | 2004-10-14 | Owens Corning Fiberglass Corp | Accessible ceiling grid system |
| US6971210B2 (en) | 2002-12-19 | 2005-12-06 | Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc. | Accessible ceiling grid system |
| US10106982B2 (en) | 2017-03-13 | 2018-10-23 | Rockwool International A/S | High strength grid member for suspended ceilings |
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