U.S. patent application number 14/631306 was filed with the patent office on 2015-06-18 for lighting and ventilating system and method.
The applicant listed for this patent is Broan-NuTone LLC. Invention is credited to Corey Scott Jacak, Mirko Zakula.
Application Number | 20150167990 14/631306 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 45924998 |
Filed Date | 2015-06-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150167990 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Zakula; Mirko ; et
al. |
June 18, 2015 |
LIGHTING AND VENTILATING SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
Embodiments of the invention provide a lighting and ventilating
system including a main housing. The main housing can include an
inlet through which air can be received within the main housing and
an outlet through which the air can exit the main housing. A fan
wheel can be supported in the main housing and it can be operable
to generate a flow of air. A grille can be coupled to the main
housing and the grille can comprise at least one aperture. The
system can include a plate coupled to the grille and the plate can
include a recess. Also, a set of illumination devices can be at
least partially disposed within the recess.
Inventors: |
Zakula; Mirko; (New Berlin,
WI) ; Jacak; Corey Scott; (West Bend, WI) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Broan-NuTone LLC |
Hartford |
WI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
45924998 |
Appl. No.: |
14/631306 |
Filed: |
February 25, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13190386 |
Jul 25, 2011 |
8967832 |
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14631306 |
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12902077 |
Oct 11, 2010 |
8382332 |
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13190386 |
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12902065 |
Oct 11, 2010 |
8485696 |
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12902077 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
454/293 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F24F 13/00 20130101;
F21Y 2115/10 20160801; F24F 7/007 20130101; Y10T 29/49002 20150115;
F21V 33/0088 20130101; Y10T 29/49236 20150115; F24F 13/078
20130101 |
International
Class: |
F24F 7/007 20060101
F24F007/007; F24F 13/00 20060101 F24F013/00 |
Claims
1. A lighting and ventilating system, comprising: a main housing
including an inlet through which air is received within the main
housing and an outlet through which the air exits the main housing;
a fan wheel supported in the main housing and operable to generate
a flow of air; a grille coupled to the main housing, the grille
comprising at least one aperture; a plate including a recess and
being operably coupled to the grille; a set of illumination devices
at least partially disposed within the recess; a panel including a
panel flange engagable to the recess to couple the panel to the
plate, wherein the panel flange is positioned adjacent to the set
of illumination devices at least partially disposed within the
recess.
2. The lighting and ventilation system of claim 1, wherein the set
of illumination devices comprises light-emitting diodes.
3. The light and ventilating system of claim 2, wherein the set of
illumination devices comprises a ribbon.
4. The light and ventilating system of claim 1, wherein a portion
of the panel flange is reflective to reflect light generated by the
set of illumination devices.
5. The light and ventilating system of claim 1, wherein the recess
encircles a center portion of the plate.
6. The light and ventilating system of claim 5, wherein the panel
flange extends along the recess to block light generated by the set
of illumination devices directed away from the center portion of
the plate.
7. A lighting and ventilating system, comprising: a main housing
including an inlet through which air is received within the main
housing and an outlet through which the air exits the main housing;
a fan wheel supported in the main housing and operable to generate
a flow of air; a grille coupled to the main housing, the grille
including at least one aperture and at least one step member; and a
plate including an inner surface defining a plate aperture and
including at least one mounting notch; wherein the at least one
step member is at least partially disposed within the plate
aperture to engage the at least one mounting notch to engage the
plate to the grille.
8. The lighting and ventilating system of claim 7, wherein the step
member is configured to rotatably engage the mounting notch such
that rotating the plate in a first direction engages the mounting
notch to the step member and rotating the plate in a second
direction disengage the mounting notch to the step member.
9. The lighting and ventilating system of claim 7, wherein the at
least one step member includes a support flange to define a support
slot engagable to the plate.
10. The light and ventilating system of claim 7, wherein the grille
includes at least one illumination device.
11. The light and ventilating system of claim 10, wherein the
support flange includes at least one illumination aperture aligned
with the at least one illumination device.
12. A lighting and ventilating system, comprising: a main housing
including an inlet through which air is received within the main
housing and an outlet through which the air exits the main housing;
a fan wheel supported in the main housing and operable to generate
a flow of air; a lamp housing coupled to the grille, the lamp
housing including at least one primary illumination device; a
grille coupled to the main housing, the grille including at least
one aperture and at least one support flange; and a plate including
an inner surface defining a plate aperture and including at least
one light distribution feature, wherein the at least one support
flange is at least partially disposed within the plate aperture to
engage the inner surface to engage the plate to the grille; wherein
the lamp housing is oriented to direct light from the at least one
illumination device through the plate aperture and across the at
least one light distribution feature.
13. The light and ventilating system of claim 12, wherein the at
least one light distribution feature comprises a textured inner
surface for disrupting light generated by the at least one primary
illumination device passing through the plate aperture.
14. The light and ventilating system of claim 12, wherein the
grille includes at least one secondary illumination device.
15. The light and ventilating system of claim 14, wherein the inner
surface of the plate includes at least one illumination notches
aligned with the at least one secondary illumination device for
directing light generated by the at least one secondary
illumination device through the plate aperture.
Description
CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of priority, to
Mirko Zakula, et al., U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/190,386,
entitled "LIGHTING AND VENTILATING SYSTEM AND METHOD," filed on
Jul. 25, 2011 (Attorney Docket No. 5978.107US1), which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos.
12/902,077 and 12/902,065, both of which were filed on Oct. 11,
2010, the benefit of which is claimed hereby, and each of which are
incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Conventional lighting and ventilating systems can combine
elements of a conventional room ventilating fan with a light
fixture. These apparatuses can have a bulky, unaesthetic
appearance, can employ a complicated design, can fail to adequately
cool the light fixture, and/or can employ a design where the
components of the apparatus are inefficiently arranged.
Additionally, many conventional lighting and ventilating systems
can include only one illumination source which can lack certain
useful functions, including a failure to provide lighting when the
ventilating system is quiescent.
OVERVIEW
[0003] Some embodiments of the invention provide a lighting and
ventilating system including a main housing. The main housing can
include an inlet through which air can be received within the main
housing and an outlet through which the air can exit the main
housing. A fan wheel can be supported in the main housing and it
can be operable to generate a flow of air. In some embodiments, a
grille can be coupled to the main housing and the grille can
comprise at least one aperture. In some embodiments, a plate can be
coupled to the grille and the plate can include a recess. In some
embodiments, a set of illumination devices can be at least
partially disposed within the recess.
[0004] Some embodiments of the invention provide a lighting and
ventilating system including a main housing. The main housing can
include an inlet through which air can be received within the main
housing and an outlet through which the air can exit the main
housing. A fan wheel can be supported in the main housing and it
can be operable to generate a flow of air. A grille can be coupled
to the main housing and the grille can include a support frame and
at least one support flange. In some embodiments a plate can be
coupled to at least a portion of the support flange. In some
embodiments, a set of illumination devices can be coupled to a
portion of the plate. In some embodiments, the set of illumination
devices can be configured and arranged to emit a dynamic
illumination event.
[0005] This overview is intended to provide an overview of subject
matter of the present patent application. It is not intended to
provide an exclusive or exhaustive explanation of the present
subject matter. The detailed description is included to provide
further information about the present patent application.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] In the drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale,
like numerals may describe similar components in different views.
Like numerals having different letter suffixes may represent
different instances of similar components. The drawings illustrate
generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various
embodiments discussed in the present document.
[0007] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a lighting and ventilating
system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0008] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a grille according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0009] FIG. 3 is a perspective of a lamp housing, grille, plate,
and lens according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0010] FIG. 4 is a cross section of a lighting and ventilating
system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0011] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a plate according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0012] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a lighting and ventilating
system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0013] FIG. 7 is an exploded view of a lighting and ventilating
system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0014] FIG. 8 is an exploded view of a lighting and ventilating
system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a lighting and ventilating
system according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0016] FIG. 10A is a rear perspective view of a grille according to
one embodiment of the invention.
[0017] FIG. 10B is a front perspective view of the grille of FIG.
10A.
[0018] FIG. 11A is a front perspective view of a portion of the
lighting and ventilating system of FIG. 9.
[0019] FIG. 11B is a rear perspective view of the portion of FIG.
11A.
[0020] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a plate according to one
embodiment of the invention.
[0021] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a plate and ribbon
according to one embodiment of the invention.
[0022] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the lighting and
ventilating system of FIG. 9.
[0023] FIG. 15 is cross-sectional view of a portion of the and
ventilating system of FIG. 9.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0024] FIGS. 1 and 9 illustrate a lighting and ventilating system
10 according to one embodiment of the invention. Some embodiments
of the system 10 can include several components and devices that
can perform various functions. In some embodiments of the present
invention, the system 10 can include a main housing 12, which can
house components of the system 10. The system 10 generally can
include a ventilating assembly 14, a lamp housing 16, a first set
of illumination devices 18, at least one aperture 20, a ventilation
outlet 22, at least one mounting apparatus 24 which can be used to
mount the lighting and ventilating system 10 to a surface or a
support structure, electrical components, a lens 26, a motor 28,
and at least one electrical socket 30.
[0025] In some embodiments, the system 10 can be used to illuminate
and/or ventilate any room, area, or space. In some embodiments, the
system 10 can illuminate the room, area, or space independently of
ventilating the room, area, or space. Further, in some embodiments,
the system 10 can provide different intensities of illumination to
the room, area, or space.
[0026] As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the main housing 12
can comprise any material which can withstand varying temperatures
(i.e., to withstand any heat radiated and/or conducted from the
illumination devices, the motor, or other components) while
providing structural support to the system 10. In some embodiments,
the main housing 12 can be formed of sheet metal, however, the main
housing 12 also can be fabricated from ceramic or a polymer
comprising a relatively high melting temperature. The main housing
12 can be formed into any shape, including, but not limited to, a
rectangular box-like shape, an oval shape, a hemispherical shape, a
spherical shape, a pyramidal shape, or any other shape. The main
housing 12 can form a base or a similar support structure of the
system 10. Further, in some embodiments, the main housing 12 can
provide points and areas of attachment for other components of the
system 10.
[0027] As shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the main housing 12
can include or can be used in conjunction with at least one
mounting apparatus 24 for installing the system 10 to any variety
of support structures or surfaces. Any type of mounting apparatus
24 can be included with the main housing 12. In some embodiments,
the main housing 12 can include two mounting apparatuses 24
fabricated from sheet metal. Although the mounting apparatuses 24
can be positioned anywhere on the main housing 12 so that the main
housing can be supported with respect to any surrounding structure
into which it can be installed, in some embodiments, the mounting
apparatuses 24 can be positioned along opposite walls of the main
housing 12. In other embodiments, the main housing 12 can be
coupled to a support structure or a surface using a variety of
fasteners and coupling methods (not shown).
[0028] In some embodiments of the invention, a grille 32 can be
coupled to the main housing 12. In some embodiments, the grille 32
can be formed in a generally square-like shape, although the grille
32 can take any shape, including an oval shape, a hemispherical
shape, a spherical shape, a pyramidal shape, or any other shape.
Further, in some embodiments, the grille 32 can be configured so
that it substantially matches the shape of the main housing 12. The
grille 32 can be formed from injection-molded polymers,
injection-molded polycarbonate, sheet metal, or any other suitable
material.
[0029] As shown in FIGS. 1, 7 and 9, in some embodiments, the
grille 32 can be positioned over an open end of the main housing
12. In some embodiments, the open end of the main housing 12 can be
shaped and dimensioned to be received within an open end of the
grille 32. The grille 32 can be secured to the main housing 12 by
one or more snap-fit features on the grille 32 and/or the main
housing 12. Additionally, in some embodiments, the one or more
snap-fit features can be supplemented or largely replaced by any
variety of couplings, such as screws, grille springs, bolts,
rivets, pins, clamps, glue or other adhesive, and any other similar
coupling. In some embodiments, the main housing 12 and the grille
32 can be further secured through other coupling practices such as
welding, soldering, brazing, adhesive or cohesive bonding material,
any combination of the foregoing, or any other similar coupling
practice.
[0030] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, in some embodiments, the main
housing 12 can include one or more lips, flared edges, flanges, or
other features to which the grille 32 can be coupled. In some
embodiments, the main housing 12 can include a first set of
peripheral flanges 34 to which the grille 32 can be coupled. In
other embodiments, the grille 32 can be shaped and dimensioned to
be received within the main housing 12 and the grille 32 can be
coupled to the main housing 12 using any of the above described
methods. In some embodiments, the grille 32 and the main housing 12
can include apertures through which fasteners can be passed to
couple the grille 32 and the main housing 12. Any of the previously
described couplings can be used to couple the grille 32 and the
main housing 12.
[0031] In some embodiments of the invention, the grille 32 can
include the apertures 20. In some embodiments, the apertures 20 can
extend across an inlet 36, which can be defined by the main housing
12. The apertures 20 can be used for receiving a flow of air. The
plurality of apertures 20 can be located anywhere on the grille 32.
In some embodiments, the location of the apertures 20 can be at
least partially determined by airflow path(s) which can be
available from the apertures 20, through the inlet 36, and into the
ventilating assembly 14. In some embodiments, the apertures 20 can
be located substantially around a perimeter of a region 38 of the
grille 32. In some embodiments, the location of the apertures 20
can be selected substantially based on aesthetics, functionality,
and other considerations that can be important to a user and/or a
manufacturer.
[0032] As best seen in FIGS. 2 and 3, in some embodiments, the
apertures 20 can guide air into the system 10. Air can include
moisture, steam, exhaust, smoke, effluent, or anything similar. In
some embodiments, after passing through the apertures 20 and
entering the inlet 36 of the main housing 12, the air can enter the
ventilating assembly 14, which can be included in the main housing
12, as discussed below. In some embodiments, the ventilating
assembly 14 can be operable to discharge the airflow to another
location, such as an attic, outside of the structure in which the
system 10 can be secured, and/or to a duct network. Further, the
airflow can be discharged from the ventilation outlet 22 of the
main housing 12, in some embodiments.
[0033] As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, in some embodiments, the
grille 32 can comprise different configurations. In some
embodiments, the grille 32 can comprise a support frame 81 and at
least one support flange 84. In some embodiments, the grille 32 can
comprise a plurality of support flanges 84. In some embodiments, at
least a portion of the support flanges 84 can be coupled to the
support frame 81 using any of the previously mentioned coupling
techniques. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the support
flanges 84 can be substantially integral with the support frame 81.
For example, in some embodiments, the grille 32 can comprise a
single sheet of metal and the support frame 81 and support flanges
84 can be stamped so that the grille 32 comprises a desired
configuration. Moreover, in some embodiments, the grille 32 can be
formed in a mold so that support frame 81 and at least some of the
support flanges 84 are generally integrally formed.
[0034] As previously mentioned, the grille 32 can be coupled to the
main housing 12 in a number of different ways. For example, in some
embodiments, the support frame 81 can comprise at least one clip
86, as shown in FIG. 10A. In some embodiments, the support frame 81
can comprise a plurality of clips 86 that can be positioned around
an outer perimeter of the grille 32. By way of example only, in
some embodiments, the grille 32 can comprise a substantially square
shape and the clips 86 can be positioned on two of the four sides
of the grille 32. Although, in other embodiments, the grille 32 can
comprise other shapes, such as, but not limited to square,
rectangular, regular or irregular polygonal, any shape generally
corresponding to the main housing 12, etc. In some embodiments, the
clips 86 can be configured and arranged to engage elements of the
main housing 12 (not shown) to couple the grille 32 to a portion of
the main housing 12. In some embodiments, the clips 86 can also
support the grille 32.
[0035] In some embodiments, the support frame 81 can comprise a
plurality of walls 88, an upper flange 90, and a lower flange 92.
Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, in some embodiments, the walls 88
can define a perimeter of the grille 32 and the upper flange 90 can
be coupled to the walls 88 in any of the previously mentioned
coupling manners. In some embodiments, the upper flange 90 can be
substantially integral with the walls 88 (e.g., the flange 90 and
the walls 88 are formed as a substantially integral element). In
some embodiments, upper flange 90 can laterally extend from a
portion of the walls 88 and, during assembly, can engage a portion
of the main housing 12 to at least partially provide support for
the grille 32.
[0036] In some embodiments, the lower flange 92 can extend from a
portion of the walls 88 substantially opposite the upper flange 90.
Moreover, in some embodiments, the lower flange 92 can at least
partially define the aperture 20. For example, as shown in FIGS.
10A and 10B, in some embodiments, the lower flange 92 can extend in
a lateral direction substantially opposite from the upper flange 90
and the aperture 20 can be disposed between portions of the lower
flange 92.
[0037] Moreover, in some embodiments, the support flanges 84 can at
least partially extend into a portion of the aperture 20 from the
lower flange 92. In some embodiments, the support flanges 84 can
extend from the lower flange 92 in multiple locations. As shown in
FIGS. 10A and 10B, for example, in some embodiments, the lower
flange 92 can comprise a substantially square configuration and the
support flanges 84 can extend from each of the sides of the square.
Although, in other embodiments, the lower flange 92 can comprise
other shapes, and, the support flanges 84 can extend in different
manners to at least partially correspond to the shape of the lower
flange 92.
[0038] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the support
flanges 84 can comprise different sections. For example, in some
embodiments, the support flanges 84 can comprise different planes.
As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, in some embodiments, a first region
94 of at least portion of at least some of the support flanges 84
can linearly extend from the lower flange 92 so that the support
flange 84 and the lower flange 92 are in substantially the same
plane. In some embodiments, as the support flanges 84 extend toward
a center of the grille 32, the support flanges 84 can extend to a
different plane. For example, as shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, in
some embodiments, the support flanges 84 can comprise a second
region 96 that is oriented substantially parallel to at least a
portion of the walls 88. In some embodiments, the second region 96
can extend away (e.g. up, down, and/or angled) from the first
region 94. Moreover, in some embodiments, at least some of the
second regions 96 can be at least partially angled and need not be
substantially linear. In some embodiments, at least some of the
support flanges 84 can comprise a third region 98 extending from
the second region 96. In some embodiments, the third region 98 can
lie in different plane relative to the first region 94, but, in
some embodiments, the third region 98 can be substantially parallel
to the first region 94. As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, in some
embodiments, the third region 98 can lie in a plane substantially
above the first region, however, in some embodiments, the third
region 98 can lie in plane substantially below or substantially
congruent to the plane of the first region 94.
[0039] Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, in some embodiments, portions of
the grille 32 adjacent to the region 38, which can define the
plurality of apertures 20, can include a substantially curved area.
Substantially curved can include arched, arced, angled, bent,
bowed, curled, rounded, warped, or any other deviation from
substantially planar. In other embodiments, the portions of the
grille 32 which can define the plurality of apertures 20 can be
substantially planar.
[0040] According to some embodiments, the region 38 can be located
in a generally central area of the grille 32. In other embodiments,
the region 38 can be located generally anywhere on the grille 32.
In yet other embodiments, the region 38 can include multiple
regions 38 located in either generally central areas of the grille
32 or anywhere on the grille 32. In some embodiments, the region 38
can take a generally annular shape. In other embodiments, the
region 38 can take other shapes, including square, rectangular,
polygonal, spherical, elliptical, or any other shape.
[0041] In some embodiments of the invention, the region 38 can
include a horizontal plane and the grille 32 can include a
horizontal plane. In some embodiments, the horizontal plane of the
region 38 can be substantially parallel to the horizontal plane of
the grille 32, but the two horizontal planes need not be congruent.
More specifically, in some embodiments, the region 38 can be
generally elevated with respect to the grille 32. In other
embodiments, the region 38 can be generally recessed with respect
to the grille 32. In other embodiments, the horizontal planes of
both the grille 32 and the region 38 can be substantially congruent
so that the entire grille 32 can be generally planar.
[0042] As shown in FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the portions of the
grille 32 which can include the substantially curved area can be
curved in a direction so that the grille 32 and the region 38 can
contact each other. In some embodiments where the region 38 can be
elevated with respect to the grille 32, the substantially curved
area can curve in a generally upward direction so that the region
38 and the grille 32 can contact each other. More specifically, the
region 38 can reside as a plateau connected to the grille 32, but
on a different horizontal plane with the substantially curved area
included between the two elements. In some embodiments where the
region 38 can be recessed with respect to the grille 32, the
substantially curved area can curve in a generally downward
direction so that the region 38 and the grille 32 can contact each
other. In other embodiments, the substantially curved area can be
substantially planar so that the grille 32 and the region can be
generally positioned in one horizontal plane. In some embodiments,
the grille 32 and the region 38 can both be formed in one unit so
that the grille 32 and the region 32 are integral. In some
embodiments, the grille 32 and the region 32 can be formed from at
least two different subunits and coupled together. The grille 32
and the region 32 can be coupled using any of the methods described
above.
[0043] Referring to FIG. 3, in some embodiments of the invention,
the region 38 can include a lamp aperture 40. The lamp aperture 40
can be defined in a generally central location within the region
38, in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the lamp aperture 40
can be defined anywhere within the region 38 or the grille 32. In
some embodiments, the lamp aperture 40 can be generally annular,
however the lamp aperture 40 also can be generally square,
rectangular, polygonal, spherical, elliptical, or any other shape.
In some embodiments the shape of the lamp aperture 40 can be
selected based on the shape of the lamp housing 16.
[0044] In some embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can be shaped and
dimensioned to be received by the lamp aperture 40. In some
embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can include a heat-resistant
material, heat shielding, and/or a reflective surface to inhibit
heat from contacting various components of the system 10. In some
embodiments, the reflective surface can generally direct light out
the system 10. In some embodiments, the lamp aperture 40 can
generally support, hold, or sustain the lamp housing 16. In some
embodiments, the lamp aperture 40 can include a mounting flange 42
which can be used to support the lamp housing 16. The mounting
flange 42 can be located substantially entirely around the inner
diameter of the lamp aperture 40 and can be integral with the lamp
aperture 40. In other embodiments, the mounting flange 42 can be a
plurality of mounting flanges located around the inner diameter of
the lamp aperture 40.
[0045] As shown in FIGS. 3-4, in some embodiments, the lamp housing
16 can be secured to the mounting flange 42 by one or more snap-fit
features on the lamp housing 16 and/or the mounting flange 42.
Additionally, in some embodiments, the one or more snap-fit
features can be supplemented or largely replaced by any variety of
coupling, such as screws, bolts, rivets, pins, clamps, glue or
other adhesive, and any other similar fastener. In some
embodiments, the lamp housing 16 and the mounting flange 42 can be
further secured through other coupling practices such as welding,
soldering, brazing, adhesive or cohesive bonding material, any
combination of the foregoing, or any other similar coupling
practice.
[0046] Referring to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the lamp housing
16 can include one or more lips, flared edges, flanges, or other
features to which the mounting flange 42 can be coupled. In some
embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can include a second set of
peripheral flanges 44 to which the mounting flange 42 can be
attached. In some embodiments, the mounting flange 42 can include a
set of pins 46 which can be received by a set of apertures included
on the second set of peripheral flanges 44. In some embodiments,
the connection between the pins 46 and the apertures of the flanges
44 can be further secured using any of the previously mentioned
coupling methods. Further, in some embodiments, the mounting flange
42 and the lamp housing 16 can include apertures through which any
of the above-discussed fasteners I couplers can be passed to secure
the mounting flange 42 to the lamp housing 16. In some embodiments,
the lamp housing 16 can be directly coupled to the region 38 and/or
the grille 32 in any suitable manner. Further, in some embodiments,
the lamp housing 16 can be directly coupled to the main housing 12
in any suitable manner.
[0047] In some embodiments, the lamp housing 16 can include the
electrical sockets 30 and the first set of illumination devices 18,
although some embodiments can include only one electrical socket 30
and one illumination device 18. In some embodiments, the electrical
sockets 30 can be connected to the electrical components. The
illumination devices 18 can contact the electric sockets 30, and,
in some embodiments, when activated by the user, the illumination
devices 18 can provide illumination to the room, area, or space. In
some embodiments, the illumination devices 18 can include
incandescent, fluorescent, compact fluorescent, halogen, and other
lights and lamps. Further, these lights can be flood lights, globe
lights, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), or other similar lighting
apparatuses, including a combination of any of the above.
[0048] Referring to FIGS. 2-3, in some embodiments, the
illumination devices 18 can be configured to operate separately
from one another. In some embodiments, a first set of illumination
devices 18 can be configured to emit either a brighter or duller
light than the remainder of the first set of illumination devices
18. Also, in some embodiments, the illumination devices 18 can be
configured in any conventional manner to have one or more dimmed
settings or can be controllable in a range of brightness.
[0049] In some embodiments, the region 38 can include a set of step
members 48. In some embodiments, the set of step members 48 can be
one step member 48, however, m some embodiments the set of step
members 48 can be more than one step member 48, such as four step
members 48. In some embodiments, the step members 48 can outwardly
extend from the region 38. In some embodiments, the step members 48
can outwardly extend directly from the grille 32. The step members
48 can take a generally rectangular form in some embodiments,
although in some embodiments, the step members 48 can take other
forms, including square, oval, polygonal, elliptical, or any other
shape. In some embodiments, the step members 48 can be integral
with the region 38 or the grille 32. In some embodiments, the step
members 48 can be separate subunits of the system 10 and can be
coupled to the region 38 or the grille 32 in any suitable
manner.
[0050] As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, in some embodiments, the
step members 48 can include a support flange 50, although not all
step members 48 included in the system 10 need to include a support
flange 50. In some embodiments, the support flange 50 can be
positioned on each step member 48 at an end which generally can be
the most radially distal relative to the region 38. In some
embodiments, the support flange 50 can be positioned anywhere along
the length of the step members 48. In some embodiments, the support
flange 50 can be integral with the step members 48, however, in
other embodiments, the support flange 50 can be coupled to the step
members 48 in any suitable manner, which can include using any of
the coupling techniques described above.
[0051] Referring now to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, each of the
step members 48 can include a support slot 52. The support slot 52
can be defined by an area along a surface of the step members 48
near the support flange 50. In some embodiments, the support slot
52 can be sized to support a plate 54, as described in further
detail below. The support slot 52 and the support flange 50
together can, at least partially, enable installation of the plate
54 onto the system 10. In some embodiments, the support slot 52 can
be any size which can be coordinated with any functionality the
user and/or manufacturer desires. In other embodiments, the plate
54 can be installed by any other suitable methods and the support
slots 52 can be absent.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 4, in some embodiments, an area of each of
the step members 48 adjacent to the support slots 52 can include an
illumination aperture 56. In some embodiments, the illumination
apertures 56 can be located relatively centrally with respect to
the support slots 52, however, in other embodiments, the
illumination apertures 56 can be located anywhere within the
support slots 52. In other embodiments, the illumination apertures
56 can be located anywhere along the step members 48. In some
embodiments, there can be any number of illumination apertures 56
on the system 10, including one per step member 48, two per step
member 48, three per step member 48, and so forth. Further, in some
embodiments, some or all of the step members 48 can lack
illumination apertures 56.
[0053] In some embodiments, the illumination apertures 56 can
contain electrical connections which can be used to provide power
to a second set of illumination devices 58. The electrical
connections can be positioned substantially within the step members
48. More specifically, in some embodiments, the step members 48 can
be at least partially hollow or the step members 48 can contain a
recess within them. In some embodiments, the electrical connections
can be positioned within the hollow area of the step members 48. In
some embodiments, the electrical connections can be part of a
larger network of electrical components which can be connected to a
user interface which the user can use to control the system 10. In
some embodiments, the step members 48 can be substantially solid
(i.e., substantially lacking any hollow areas) and the electrical
connections can be positioned elsewhere on the system 10.
[0054] In some embodiments, the illumination apertures 56 can
include the second set of illumination devices 58. The second set
of illumination devices 58 can by of any type suitable to
illuminate a room, area, space, or can be used to illuminate the
plate 54. In some embodiments, the second set of illumination
devices 58 can comprise LEDs, although, in some embodiments, the
second set of illumination devices 58 can include incandescent,
fluorescent, compact fluorescent, halogen, or any other type of
illuminating apparatuses, including a combination of any of the
above. In some embodiments, the number of illumination apertures 56
and the number of the second set of illumination devices 58 can be
substantially the same (i.e., four illumination apertures and four
illumination devices). In other embodiments, the number of
illumination apertures 56 and the number of the second set of
illumination devices 58 can be different, although in some
embodiments, more than one illumination device 58 can be installed
within one illumination aperture 56. Further, one or more of the
second set of illumination devices 58 can be configured in any
conventional manner to have one or more dimmed settings or to be
controllable in a range of brightness.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 8, in some embodiments, the second set of
illumination devices 58 can comprise a lighting strip or ribbon 82.
In some embodiments, the step members 48, or an annular structure
78 that can be generally positioned on or in the grille 32 or
region 38, can support the ribbon 82 to provide more even lighting
about the periphery of a portion of the region 38 or the grille 32.
In some embodiments, the ribbon 82 can comprise incandescent,
fluorescent, compact fluorescent, halogen, and other lights and
lamps. Further, the ribbon 82 can comprise flood lights, globe
lights, LEDs, or other similar lighting apparatuses, including a
combination of any of the above. In some embodiments, electrical
connections can be coupled to the ribbon 82 so that the ribbon 82
can receive power. In some embodiments, the electrical connections
can be part of a larger network of electrical components that can
be connected to a user interface which the user can use to control
the system 10.
[0056] In some embodiments of the invention, the second set of
illumination devices 58 can be configured to operate independently
of the first set of illumination devices 18. In some embodiments,
the second set of illumination devices 58 can be configured to
substantially automatically emit illumination when the area around
the system 10 substantially lacks illumination (e.g., operate as a
"night light"). In some embodiments, the second set of illumination
devices 58 can be configured to emit illumination at the command of
the user. The command of the user can include the user manually
activating the second set of illumination devices 58, the user
pre-programming automatic activation of the second set of
illumination devices 58, the user pre-selecting times of the day
for activation of the second set of illumination devices 58, or any
other user-based commands. In some embodiments, both the first set
18 and the second set of illumination devices 58 can be configured
to illuminate substantially the same space at substantially the
same time.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the second set of
illumination devices 58 can be configured to operate in cooperation
with the first set of illumination devices 18. In some embodiments,
the first set 18 and the second set of illumination devices 58 can
be configured to be, at least partially, controlled by a
motion-sensing monitor. In some embodiments, the motion sensing
monitor can activate the first set of illumination devices 18 when
it detects any general movement and the monitor can activate the
second set of illumination devices 58 after no movement is detected
for any chosen duration. In some embodiments, the motion-sensing
monitor can deactivate the first set of illumination devices 18
when it activates the second set of illumination devices 58, and
vice versa. Further, in some embodiments, the second set of
illumination devices can be activated and the first set of
illumination devices 18 can be deactivated when the space is
generally unoccupied by a user and the space generally lacks other
illumination. Conversely, the second set of illumination devices 58
can be deactivated and the first set of illumination devices 18 can
be activated when the space is generally occupied by the user.
[0058] In some embodiments, the second set of illumination devices
58 can comprise other methods of operation. For example, in some
embodiments, the second set of illumination devices 58 can emit a
dynamic illumination event. In some embodiments, upon triggering of
the dynamic illumination event, the second set of illumination
devices 58 generally can receive gradually increasing amounts of
current, via the electrical connections, so that the intensity of
the illumination emitted by the second set of illumination devices
58 can generally increase at approximately the same rate as the
increase in current. The increase in illumination intensity can
occur over a broad range of intensities and increments so that the
space into which the system 10 is installed can gradually go from a
general lack of illumination through gradually increasing
intensities of illumination until the second set of illumination
devices 58 emit a maximum amount of illumination. In some
embodiments, a microprocessor (not shown) can control the gradual
increase in current to the second set of illumination devices 58.
Further, in some embodiments of the invention, the gradual increase
can be provided by different power modulation techniques, including
pulse-width modulation.
[0059] Additionally, in some embodiments, the rate of gradual
increase in the amount of current to the second set of illumination
devices 58 can comprise a generally constant ramp slope. For
example, after activation, the gradual increase in current provided
to the second set of illumination devices 58 can comprise a
generally constant increase until the amount of current can reach
the pre-programmed maximum and then the amount of current can
comprise a generally constant current.
[0060] In some embodiments, the general increase in the amount of
current can comprise a generally gradual onset ramp slope. More
specifically, in some embodiments, after activation, the general
increase in current can increase at a generally lesser rate at a
point more temporally proximal to activation than a point more
temporally distal from activation. For example, relatively soon
after activation, the rate of increase can comprise a generally
lesser rate of current increase relative to a point closer to the
pre-programmed maximum. After reaching the preprogrammed maximum,
the amount of current can comprise a generally constant
current.
[0061] In some embodiments, deactivation of the dynamic
illumination event can comprise a generally immediate loss of
current to the second set of illumination devices 58. For example,
deactivation can comprise a relatively immediate withdrawal of
current provided to the second set of illumination devices 58. In
some embodiments, deactivation can comprise a gradual decrease in
current to the second set of illumination devices 58 so that the
intensity of the second set of illumination devices generally
correspondingly decreases until substantially less illumination
radiates from the second set of illumination devices 58.
[0062] In some embodiments of the invention, the illumination
emitted by the second set of illumination devices 58 during the
dynamic illumination event can comprise a range of colored
illumination. The color can be any color, include blue, green,
purple, amber, or any other color. Further, in some embodiments,
the range of colored illumination can include variations in hues of
the same color. For example, if the colored illumination is blue,
then color emitted by the second set of illumination devices 58
upon initial activation of the dynamic illumination event can be
generally a darker hue of blue, and as the current increases, the
color can become a generally lighter hue of blue.
[0063] Additionally, in some embodiments, the system 10 can include
the capability to emit more than one color. In some embodiments,
the user can select which color he or she prefers for the dynamic
illumination event from any color that the system 10 can display.
In some embodiments, the system 10 can include four colors from
which the user can chose, although in other embodiments, the system
can include any number of colors that the manufacturer or user
desires.
[0064] In some embodiments, the user can use a selection actuator
(not shown) to select the color of the dynamic illumination event.
In some embodiments, the selection actuator can be a dip switch,
but in other embodiments, the selection actuator can be a rotary
switch, or any other suitable device. In some embodiments, the
selection actuator can be positioned substantially within the lamp
housing 16, the main housing 12, the grille 32, or generally
anywhere in or on the system 10, but in other embodiments, the
selection actuator can be installed in a remote location.
[0065] In some embodiments, the second set of illumination devices
58 can provide illumination both when the user is and/or is not in
the space to be illuminated. For example, in some embodiments, when
the user is not present in the space to be illuminated, the second
set of illumination devices 58 can emit a generally low-level
intensity of illumination so that the system 10 can function as a
night light, similar to some of the previously mentioned
embodiments. In some embodiments, this can be mediated, at least
partially by the motion sensing monitor (e.g. the system 10 can
function as a night light when there is little to no movement in
the space). Additionally, in some embodiments, the second set of
illumination devices 56 can be controlled by a timer to determine
when the low-intensity illumination should be emitted. In some
embodiments, upon detecting the presence of the user (e.g., via the
motion sensing monitor, a user-actuated switch, and/or a timer),
the second set of illumination devices 58 can emit the dynamic
illumination event or can substantially immediately begin emitting
a greater intensity illumination so that at least a portion of the
room is substantially illuminated (e.g., the system 10 can provide
both quiescent and/or task illumination).
[0066] In some embodiments, the system can include the plate 54. In
some embodiments, the plate 54 can be formed from glass, acrylic,
injection-molded polymers, or any other similar material. In some
embodiments, the plate can be formed such that it is substantially
transparent. In other embodiments, the plate can be formed such
that it can be substantially translucent, opaque, or any other
light-transmissive state within the range of any of the above.
Further, in some embodiments, the plate 54 can include different
regions which can include different light-transmissive
properties.
[0067] In some embodiments, the plate 54 can be generally colorless
(i.e., lacking all tint). In other embodiments, the plate 54 can
include a tint. Further, in some embodiments the tint color can
include green, blue, red, orange, violet, yellow, or any other
color or combination of colors (not shown).
[0068] In some embodiments, the plate 54 can be formed so that it
can take a generally annular shape. In other embodiments, however,
the plate 54 can take any shape, including, but not limited to a
square, rectangle, polygon, ellipse, oval, or any other shape.
Also, in some embodiments, the plate 54 can have a substantially
irregular shape.
[0069] In some embodiments, the plate 54 can be of a size
substantially similar to the grille 32. In some embodiments,
however, the plate 54 and the grille 32 can be of generally
different sizes. The plate 54 can be either a larger size or a
smaller size than the grille 32.
[0070] In some embodiments, the plate 54 can include a
substantially non-textured or smooth surface. In other embodiments,
the plate 54 can include a non-homogenous surface so that the
surface of the plate 54 can be, at least partially, textured. In
some embodiments, the plate 54 can be manufactured as a single
unit. In some embodiments, the plate 54 can be manufactured as
multiple units and those multiple units can be coupled using any
one or combination of the coupling techniques discussed above.
[0071] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 6, according to some embodiments of
the invention, the plate 54 can include a plate aperture 60. In
some embodiments, the plate aperture 60 can be located
substantially centrally on the plate 54. In other embodiments, the
plate aperture 60 can be located anywhere along the plate 54. In
some embodiments, the plate aperture 60 can take a generally
annular shape so that, with inclusion of the plate aperture 60 in a
generally annular-shaped plate 54, the plate 54 can take a
generally ring-shaped appearance. In other embodiments, the plate
aperture 60 can take any other regular or irregular shape.
[0072] In some embodiments, walls of the plate aperture 60 can
include a generally smooth, non-textured surface. As seen in FIG.
6, in other embodiments, the walls of the plate aperture 60 can
include a generally textured surface 62. In some embodiments, the
textured surface 62 can include a generally saw-toothed texture, as
can be seen in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, the textured surface 62
can substantially extend around the entire circumference of the
plate aperture 60. In some embodiments, the textured surface 62 can
be localized only to some regions of the walls of the plate
aperture 60, as shown in FIG. 2. The textured surface can help to
diffuse light and provide a more even illumination pattern in some
embodiments of the invention.
[0073] In some embodiments, the walls of the plate aperture 60 can
include a set of mounting notches 64. In some embodiments, the set
of mounting notches 64 can be of a generally semicircular shape,
although in other embodiments the set of mounting notches 64 can be
a shape that is generally square, rectangular, elliptical, oval, or
any other regular or irregular shape. In some embodiments, the set
of mounting notches 64 can be substantially equidistantly spaced
around the circumference of the plate aperture 60, although in
other embodiments, the set of mounting notches 64 can be spaced in
any manner desired. In some embodiments, the number of the set of
mounting notches 64 can be the same as the number of step members
48. In other embodiments, the numbers of mounting notches 64 and
step members 48 can be different.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 2, in some embodiments, the set of
mounting notches 64 can be used to couple the plate 54 to the
grille 32. In some embodiments, the plate 54 can be positioned so
that each of the support flanges 50 substantially align with an
area generally adjacent to each of the mounting notches 64. In some
embodiments, once aligned, the plate 54 can be moved so that the
plate 54 moves with respect to the support flanges 50. In some
embodiments, once the mounting notches 64 are moved away from the
support flanges 50, the plate 54 can now be largely supported by
the support flanges 50 and the support slots 52. In some
embodiments, the movement of the plate 54 can be a rotation, twist,
revolving, or other similar movement.
[0075] In some embodiments, the plate 54 can be coupled to the
grille 32 in other manners. As shown in FIGS. 11A and 11B, in some
embodiments, the plate 54 can be coupled to the support flanges 84.
In some embodiments, at least some of the support flanges 84
comprise a plate coupling aperture 100 disposed through portions of
the second region 96 and the third region 98, as shown in FIGS. 10A
and 10B. In some embodiments, the coupling apertures 100 can
function to couple the plate 54 to the grille 32 (e.g., the support
flanges 84). For example, in some embodiments, at least some clips
(not shown), which can be integral or coupled to the plate 54, can
be used to couple the plate 54 to the coupling apertures 100. In
other embodiments, the plate 54 can be coupled to the grille 32 in
any of the previously mentioned coupling manners. Moreover, in some
embodiments, at least a portion of the plate 54 can be in a plane
that is substantially congruent with a plane of the upper flange
90, as shown in FIGS. 9, 11A and 11B.
[0076] In some embodiments, after coupling an air path can be
defined between the plate 54 and the support frame 81 and support
flanges 84 of the grille 32 so that air can flow into the housing
12 after passing between the plate 54 and the apertures 20 of the
grille 32.
[0077] In some embodiments, the plate 54 can comprise other
configurations. As shown in FIGS. 11A-12, in some embodiments, the
plate 54 can comprise a recess 102 around at least a portion of an
inner perimeter of the plate 54. For example, as shown in FIG. 12,
in some embodiments, the recess 102 can be positioned substantially
adjacent to an outer perimeter of the plate 54 (e.g., the recess
102 is almost at an edge of the plate 54). Although, in other
embodiments, the recess 102 can be positioned in other locations on
and/or through the plate 54.
[0078] In some embodiments, the recess 102 can comprise a shape
substantially similar to the plate's 54 shape. For example, as
shown in FIG. 12, in some embodiments, the plate 54 can comprise a
substantially square shape and, accordingly, the recess 102 can
comprise a substantially square shape. Moreover, as previously
mentioned, in some embodiments, the plate 54 can comprise any
number of shapes, and accordingly, the recess 102 can comprise any
number of shapes. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the recess 102
need not comprise a shape similar to the plate 54. For example, the
plate 54 can comprise a substantially square shape, and the recess
102 can comprise any other shape (e.g. annular).
[0079] In some embodiments, the recess 102 can comprise a groove, a
notch, a depression, an indentation, etc. In some embodiments, at
least a portion of the recess 102 can extend through an entire
thickness of the plate 54. In some embodiments, the plate 54 can be
formed with the recess 102, and in other embodiments, the recess
102 can be machined or otherwise disposed within the plate 54.
Additionally, in some embodiments, at least a portion of an
interior surface of the recess 102 can comprise the textured
surface 62.
[0080] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the second set of
illumination devices 58 can be coupled to the plate 54. In some
embodiments, the second set of illumination devices 58 can be
coupled to the plate 54 using any of the previously mentioned
coupling techniques, including disposing the devices 58 within at
least a portion of the recess 102. For example, as shown in FIG.
13, in some embodiments, the ribbon 82 can be at least partially
positioned within the recess 102. In some embodiments, the ribbon
82 can comprise any of the previously mentioned lighting
configurations. In some embodiments, electrical connections can be
coupled to the ribbon 82 so that the ribbon 82 can receive power.
In some embodiments, the electrical connections can be part of a
larger network of electrical components that can be connected to a
user interface that the user can use to control the system 10.
Additionally, in some embodiments, at least a portion of an
interior surface of the recess 102 can comprise the textured
surface 62, which can at least partially enhance illumination
diffusion.
[0081] In some embodiments, the plate 54, the second set of
illumination devices 58, and the recess 102 can be configured and
arranged to direct illumination in multiple directions. In some
embodiments, the second set of illuminations 58 can be disposed in
the recess 102 so that that illumination is centrally directed,
with respect to the plate 54. For example, in some embodiments, the
second set of illumination devices 58 can be positioned so that
their illumination is directed inward and diffuses through the
plate 54, which can produce a generally illuminated plate 54. In
some embodiments, the second set of illumination devices 58 can be
disposed in the recess 102 in other manners so that their
illumination is directed in substantially any direction desired by
the manufacturer and/or end user.
[0082] In some embodiments, a panel 104 can be coupled to the plate
54. In some embodiments, the panel 104 can comprise a substantially
similar size and shape as the outer perimeter of the plate 54. For
example, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, in some embodiments, the
panel 104 can comprise a substantially square or rectangular shape
to correspond to the similar shape of the outer perimeter of the
plate 54. In some embodiments, the panel 104 can comprise a
substantially single element, and in other embodiments, the panel
104 can comprise multiple elements coupled together to form the
panel 104. Moreover, in some embodiments, the panel 104 need not
comprise a size and shape substantially similar to the plate
54.
[0083] In some embodiments, the panel 104 can be coupled to the
plate 54 via the recess 102. In some embodiments, the panel 104 can
comprise a panel flange 106 that is configured and arranged to
engage the recess 102. For example, in some embodiments, after
positioning the second set of illumination devices 58 within the
recess 102, at least a portion of the panel flange 106 can be
positioned within the recess 102 to couple the panel 104 to the
plate 54. In some embodiments, the panel 104 can be snap fit,
interference fit, or coupled to the plate 54 via any other
previously mentioned coupling techniques. In some embodiments, the
panel 104 can be coupled to and surround the entire outer perimeter
of the plate 54, however, in other embodiments, the panel 104 can
be positioned around any lesser proportion of the plate 54.
[0084] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the panel flange
106 can be substantially immediately adjacent to the second set of
illumination devices 58 within the recess 102. In some embodiments,
a surface of the panel flange 106 immediately adjacent to the
second set of illumination devices 58 can comprise a substantially
reflective surface. As a result, in some embodiments, at least a
portion of the illumination provided by the second set of
illumination devices 58 can be centrally reflected by the
reflective surface to improve illumination of the plate 54.
[0085] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 3, 6, and 7, the
plate 54 can include a set of illumination notches 66. In some
embodiments, the illumination notches 66 can be of a generally
semi-circular shape, although in other embodiments the illumination
notches 66 can be a shape that is generally square, rectangular,
elliptical, oval, or any other regular or irregular shape. In some
embodiments, the illumination notches 66 can be substantially
equidistantly spaced around the circumference of the plate aperture
60, although in other embodiments, the illumination notches 66 can
be spaced in any manner desired. In some embodiments, the number of
the illumination notches 66 can be the same as the number of step
members 48. In other embodiments, the numbers of illumination
notches 66 and step members 48 can be different. In some
embodiments, some or all of the illumination notches 66 can include
the textured surface 62, independently of whether the remainder of
the walls of the plate aperture 60 includes the textured surface
62.
[0086] In some embodiments, after the plate 54 has been coupled to
the grille 32, the illumination notches 66 can substantially align
with the illumination apertures 56 and the second set of
illumination devices 58. In some embodiments, when the second set
of illumination devices 58 are activated, the illumination notches
66 can aid in dispersing illumination to the remainder of the plate
54 and to the local environment as well. In some embodiments, the
textured surface 62, whether included in the illumination notches
66 or not, can further enhance illumination distribution to the
plate 54 and the local environment relative to embodiments which
can substantially lack the textured surface 62. Additionally, in
some embodiments, the second set of illumination devices 58 can be
positioned adjacent to a reflective surface so that after
activation of the second set of illumination devices 58, the second
set 58 can radiate illumination generally toward the reflective
surface which can reflect a substantial amount of the illumination
toward the plate 54.
[0087] In some embodiments, the plate 54 can include light pipes
68. In some embodiments, the light pipes 68 can be substantially
internalized within the plate 54. In other embodiments, the light
pipes 68 can be coupled to a surface of the plate 54. In some
embodiments, the light pipes 68 can extend from an area adjacent to
each of the illumination notches 66 to an area generally adjacent
to an outer perimeter of the plate 54. In some embodiments, the
light pipes 68 can extend any distance from the area adjacent to
each of the illumination notches 66. The light pipes 60 can aid in
conducting any illumination from the second set of illumination
devices 58 to the outer perimeter of the plate 54 and to the local
environment.
[0088] Referring to FIG. 3, in some embodiments, the grille 32 can
include a pilot light 70. The pilot light 70 can be any of the
above-discussed illumination devices. In some embodiments, the
pilot light 70 can be configured to radiate illumination when the
ventilating assembly 14 is in a substantially operative state. In
some embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can produce so little
noise that it can be difficult to substantially audibly perceive it
is in the operative state. In some embodiments, when the pilot
light 70 is illuminated, an additional signal that the ventilating
assembly is operating can be perceived by the user. The pilot light
70 can aid in potentially preventing unintended overuse of the
ventilating assembly 14. Additionally, in some embodiments, the
pilot light 70 can provide substantially green illumination, but in
other embodiments, the pilot light 70 can provide any other color
of illumination that would be desirable by the user and/or
manufacturer.
[0089] In some embodiments, at least one of the plate's 54 light
pipes 68 can be substantially aligned with the pilot light 70 so
that when the grille 32 is coupled to the plate 54, the light pipe
68 is substantially adjacent to the pilot light 70. In some
embodiments, this light pipe 68 can aid in conducting the pilot
light's 70 illumination from the grille 32 through the plate 54
which can lead to easier visualization by the user.
[0090] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, in some embodiments of the
invention, the lens 26 can be coupled to the system 10. The lens 26
can aid in diffusing illumination emitted by either the first set
18 or the second set 58 of illumination devices. In some
embodiments, the lens 26 can be coupled to the grille 32 and/or the
plate 54 by any of a number of the above-discussed coupling
techniques, including snap-fitting, fasteners, or adhesives.
Alternatively, the lens 26 can be integrally formed with either the
grille 32 and/or the plate 54.
[0091] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 7, in some embodiments of the
invention, the ventilating assembly 14 can include a centrifugal
fan or fan wheel 72 connected to a motor plate 74 or other
structure within the main housing 12. In some embodiments, any
other type of fan other than a centrifugal or fan wheel 72 can be
employed, including propeller-type fans.
[0092] In some embodiments, the system 10 can include the motor 28
connected to the motor plate 74 by a bracket 76. The motor 28 can
include a motor shaft, which can extend through the bracket 76
and/or the motor plate 74 to produce ventilating airflow. In some
embodiments, the ventilating assembly 14 can be removeably
connected within the main housing 14 as a single integral unit.
[0093] In some embodiments, when the ventilating assembly 14 is
installed within the main housing 12, the fan 72 can be supported
adjacent to an arcuate, upstanding wall 80. Together with a bottom
wall of the main housing 12 and the motor plate 74, the upstanding
wall 80 can define a scroll housing for generating airflow. In some
embodiments, the fan wheel 72 can be positioned relative to the
upstanding wall 80 to form a scroll inlet to receive air through
the apertures 20, and a scroll outlet to discharge air out of the
ventilating outlet 22. For example, in some embodiments, a flow of
air can flow around the plate 54 and enter the main housing 12
through the aperture 20 defined by the lower flange 92.
[0094] In some embodiments, one or more power consuming devices,
including, but not limited to the motor 28, the first and second
set of illumination devices 18, 58, and the pilot light 70 can be
powered by an internal electrical circuit of a building. In some
embodiments, one common line from one side of the main housing 12
can provide an inlet for one or more lines of power to enter the
main housing 12 and power one or more of the power-consuming
devices.
[0095] In some embodiments, one or more switches, such as wall
switches can be used to activate or deactivate any of the
power-consuming devices. In some embodiments, three separate
switches can be used to control the ventilating assembly 14, the
first set of illumination devices 18, and the second set of
illumination devices 58. In some embodiments, one switch can be
used to control all three. Further, in some embodiments, as
discussed above, the motion-sensing monitor can be used to control
any of the ventilating assembly 14, the first set of illumination
devices 18, and the second set of illumination devices 58.
[0096] Each of these non-limiting examples can stand on its own, or
can be combined in any permutation or combination with any one or
more of the other examples.
[0097] The above detailed description includes references to the
accompanying drawings, which form a part of the detailed
description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific
embodiments in which the present subject matter can be practiced.
These embodiments are also referred to herein as "examples." Such
examples can include elements in addition to those shown or
described. However, the present inventors also contemplate examples
in which only those elements shown or described are provided.
Moreover, the present inventors also contemplate examples using any
combination or permutation of those elements shown or described (or
one or more aspects thereof), either with respect to a particular
example (or one or more aspects thereof), or with respect to other
examples (or one or more aspects thereof) shown or described
herein.
[0098] In the event of inconsistent usages between this document
and any documents so incorporated by reference, the usage in this
document controls.
[0099] In this document, the terms "a" or "an" are used, as is
common in patent documents, to include one or more than one,
independent of any other instances or usages of "at least one" or
"one or more." In this document, the term "or" is used to refer to
a nonexclusive or, such that "A or B" includes "A but not B," "B
but not A," and "A and B," unless otherwise indicated. In this
document, the terms "including" and "in which" are used as the
plain-English equivalents of the respective terms "comprising" and
"wherein." Also, in the following claims, the terms "including" and
"comprising" are open-ended, that is, a system, device, article,
composition, formulation, or process that includes elements in
addition to those listed after such a term in a claim are still
deemed to fall within the scope of that claim. Moreover, in the
following claims, the terms "first," "second," and "third," etc.
are used merely as labels, and are not intended to impose numerical
requirements on their objects.
[0100] Method examples described herein can be machine or
computer-implemented at least in part. Some examples can include a
computer-readable medium or machine-readable medium encoded with
instructions operable to configure an electronic device to perform
methods as described in the above examples. An implementation of
such methods can include code, such as microcode, assembly language
code, a higher-level language code, or the like. Such code can
include computer readable instructions for performing various
methods. The code may form portions of computer program products.
Further, in an example, the code can be tangibly stored on one or
more volatile, non-transitory, or non-volatile tangible
computer-readable media, such as during execution or at other
times. Examples of these tangible computer-readable media can
include, but are not limited to, hard disks, removable magnetic
disks, removable optical disks (e.g., compact disks and digital
video disks), magnetic cassettes, memory cards or sticks, random
access memories (RAMs), read only memories (ROMs), and the
like.
[0101] The above description is intended to be illustrative, and
not restrictive. For example, the above-described examples (or one
or more aspects thereof) may be used in combination with each
other. Other embodiments can be used, such as by one of ordinary
skill in the art upon reviewing the above description. The Abstract
is provided to comply with 37 C.F.R. .sctn.1.72(b), to allow the
reader to quickly ascertain the nature of the technical disclosure.
It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to
interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. Also, in the
above Detailed Description, various features may be grouped
together to streamline the disclosure. This should not be
interpreted as intending that an unclaimed disclosed feature is
essential to any claim. Rather, inventive subject matter may lie in
less than all features of a particular disclosed embodiment. Thus,
the following claims are hereby incorporated into the Detailed
Description as examples or embodiments, with each claim standing on
its own as a separate embodiment, and it is contemplated that such
embodiments can be combined with each other in various combinations
or permutations. The scope of the present subject matter should be
determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the
full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
* * * * *