| CLAIMS 1. A component storage system comprising: a substantially rectangular main frame wherein at least one side of said frame includes an opening and wherein said opening is partially defined by at least one ledge; and at least one expansion box configured for at least one component to be mounted therein and wherein said expansion box is configured to substantially pass through said opening in at least one of said sides of said main frame and wherein said expansion box includes at least one flange configured to bear against and removably couple to said ledge of said main frame. 2. The component storage system of claim 1 further comprising a removable back panel of said main frame configured for a component to be mounted thereon and wherein said back panel is configured to be removably coupled to said main frame. 3. The component storage system of claim 1 wherein said main frame is configured to be located between two building framing supports and said main frame includes an opening in a top side and a bottom side of said main frame. 4. The component storage system of claim 3 wherein said two building framing supports are wall studs. 5. The component storage system of claim 4 further comprising a first side panel and a second side panel wherein said first and second side panels are removable. 6. The component storage system of claim 3 wherein said two building framing supports are ceiling joists. 7. The component storage system of claim 6 wherein each opening in said side of said main frame is configured to receive two or more said expansion boxes. 8. The component storage system of claim 1 wherein said main frame is configured to be mounted over and completely cover a substantially rectangular portion of a drop ceiling support grid. 9. The component storage system of claim 8 wherein said main frame includes a top panel, a bottom panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel and wherein said top panel, said bottom panel, said first side panel, and said second side panel include at least on ledge and an opening partially defined by said at least one ledge. 10. The component storage system of claim 9 wherein each said opening of said top panel, said bottom panel, said first side panel, and said second side panel of said main frame is configured to receive two or more said expansion boxes. 11. The component storage system of claim 1 wherein said main frame includes a back panel and wherein said back panel includes an opening and wherein said expansion box is configured to slide through said opening in said back panel. 12. A component storage system comprising: a first side panel having a top end and a bottom end and configured to be coupled to a first wall or ceiling framing support, said first side panel further including a first top ledge coupled to said first side panel proximate said top end and a first bottom ledge coupled to said first side panel proximate said bottom end wherein said first top and first bottom ledges extend substantially perpendicular to said first side panel and inwardly toward a second wall or ceiling framing support adjacent to said first framing support; a second side panel having a top end and a bottom end and configured to be coupled to a second wall or ceiling framing support, said second side panel further including a second top ledge coupled to said second side panel proximate said top end and a second bottom ledge coupled to said second side panel proximate said bottom end wherein said second top and second bottom ledges extend substantially perpendicular to said second side panel and inwardly toward said first framing support; wherein said first top ledge and said second top ledge define a top expansion opening that is less than the spacing between said first and second framing supports and said first bottom ledge and said second bottom ledge define a bottom expansion opening less than the spacing between said first and second framing supports; and at least one expansion box including first side box panel, a second side box panel, a bottom panel and a back panel wherein said back panel being configured for a electronic component to be mounted thereto; wherein said first side box panel having a top end and a bottom end and said first side box panel including a first outwardly extending flange coupled to said top of said first side box panel; said second side box panel having a top end and a bottom end and said second side box panel including a second outwardly extending flange coupled to said top of said first side box panel; wherein a portion of said expansion box is configured to pass through said top expansion opening or said bottom expansion opening and said first outwardly extending flange is configured to bear upon and couple to said first top ledge and said second outwardly extending flange is configured to bear upon and couple to said second top ledge. 13. The component storage system of claim 12 further comprising a removable back panel configured for a component to be mounted thereto and to be removably coupled to said first side panel and said second side panel. 14. The component storage system of claim 12 wherein said main frame of said component storage system is configured to receive at least one expansion box. 15. The component storage system of claim 12 wherein said top expansion opening and said bottom expansion opening of said main frame are each configured to receive three expansion boxes. 16. The component storage system of claim 12 wherein said back panel has a plurality of apertures therethrough and said apertures are distributed in a pattern thereon. 17. A method of installing a component storage system within a wall or ceiling comprising: cutting a hole in a finished surface of a wall or ceiling between two framing supports, the perimeter dimensions of said hole being slightly greater than the perimeter dimensions of a substantially rectangular main frame of said component storage system; inserting said main frame of said component storage system through said hole in said finished surface and positioning said main frame between said two framing supports; coupling said main frame to at least one of said two framing supports wherein said main frame includes at least a first side and an opposing second side and wherein said first side includes an opening partially defined by at least one ledge; mounting at least one component within an expansion box wherein said expansion box includes at least one flange proximate a top end of said expansion box; inserting said expansion box into said main frame; sliding said expansion box through said opening in said first side of said main frame until said at least one flange of said expansion box bears against a ledge of said first side of said main frame and wherein said expansion box is hidden behind said finished surface of said wall or ceiling; and coupling said flange of said expansion box to said ledge of said first side of said main frame. 18. The method of installing a component storage system within a wall or ceiling of claim 17 further comprising: mounting at least one component within a second expansion box wherein said second expansion box includes at least one flange proximate a top end of said second expansion box; inserting said second expansion box into said main frame wherein said main frame further includes an opening partially defined by at least one flange in said second side; sliding said second expansion box through said opening in said second side of said main frame until said at least one flange of said second expansion box bears against said at least one ledge in said second side of said main frame and wherein said expansion box is hidden behind said finished surface of said wall or ceiling; and coupling said flange of said second expansion box to said ledge of said second side of said main frame. 19. The method of installing a component storage system within a wall or ceiling of claim 17 further comprising: mounting at least one component to a removable back panel; and coupling said back panel to a back of said main frame. |
BACKGROUND ART
Entertainment systems and television sets are becoming sleeker and more streamlined. The flat-panel plasma, LCD, and LED high definition television sets have revolutionized the television watching experience for most of the world. It is often desirable to mount flat panel televisions on the wall instead of the customary television stand or entertainment center. This wall mounting is desirable as it creates a much visually cleaner mount of the television and allows the televisions to be placed higher in the room to put the image at eye-level or slightly above.
One problem that results from freeing the television from the entertainment center or TV stand is these pieces of furniture often also served as the storage location of the corresponding home entertainment or other security or operational components such as one or more of the following: satellite receiver, cable receiver, DVD players, external hard drives, stereo receiver, amplifier, Apple® TV, GOOGLE® TV, infrared remote control receiver, internet video streaming receiver, high-definition media player, BLU-RAY DISC® player, computer, computer processor, a wireless network access point, networking switches, communication products, networking equipment, 2-channel amplifier, 7.1 surround receiver, speaker switches, input switches, other media players, IT products, communication or phone products, security and fire protection products, data storage and surveillance equipment. To further create the sleek and minimal presentation of the flat screen televisions, many consumers now desire these elements to be hidden from view.
As such, A/V closets or utility rooms have increased in popularity, particularly in new construction as the room can easily be added to the floor plan and the substantial wiring required to get the signals to the performance component (television, speakers, and the like) can be easily performed prior to the walls being enclosed and finished. However, placing the components in an A/V closet or utility room requires time to run all of the wiring, takes up useable square footage in the home, and may not be possible in older homes that do not have an A/V closet or a utility room close to the television room. Retro fitting A/V closets and running required wiring in centralized component storage and existing construction can be a time consuming and costly undertaking.
Thus, there is a need in the art for a component storage system to store components wherein the components are hidden from view. There is a further need to provide a component storage system that is easy to install in new construction and existing construction alike. There is a further need in the art for a component storage system that reduces the length of high- definition signal wiring to provide a better quality image and sound synchronization.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
The present invention is directed to a component storage system that is hidden from view and can fit within a traditional stud framed wall, between joists in a finished ceiling, above a drop-ceiling grid, or within the framing of a fireplace. The present invention includes a main frame having an open top, bottom, front and back with substantially solid left and right side panels wherein the side panels include knock-outs for wiring or attachment purposes. The left and right side panels may be removably coupled to the top and bottom elements of the frame in order to facilitate placing multiple component systems in series. The main frame further includes a removable back mounting panel that secures to the main frame allowing a user to mount A/V, electronic, computer, entertainment systems, gaming systems, or other components thereon. The main frame is configured to fit between standard building studs or ceiling joist spacing of sixteen inches on center (16" o.c.) or other such known standard spacing or known spacing of other building support members. In one embodiment, the main frame is inserted between wall studs or ceiling joists and fastened in place through the left and right panels using screws or other fasteners. In another embodiment, the rack is hung above a grid square of a drop-ceiling grid.
The component storage system of the present invention also includes an expansion box comprising an expansion housing and a front cover. The expansion housing includes a substantially solid back panel, bottom panel, left side panel and right side panel and an open top and front. The front cover is removable, substantially solid, and is configured to be secured to the expansion housing. The solid back panel includes a pattern of holes or slots configured to facilitate mounting components securely thereto. The top of the expansion unit is open and includes a flange on each of two opposing sides. The bottom panel has multiple knock-outs to facilitate a power cord or other wiring to enter the component storage system to power or connect the components stored therein to the performance component. The dimensions of the expansion unit are configured to allow the expansion unit to pass through the substantially open top or bottom of the main frame. The flanges at the open top of the expansion box are configured to not pass through the open top or bottom of the main frame thereby allowing the expansion box to bear against and be coupled to the main frame. The flanges may include pre- drilled holes to allow the expansion unit to be fastened to the main frame. An embodiment of the component storage system is configured to receive two expansion units, one that slides through the bottom of the main frame and one that slides through the top of the main frame. One or more expansion units may be used as necessary to store all of the components for a particular installation. In an in-wall application, the main frame has at least two opposing openings to allow for expansion boxes to be secured thereto thereby increasing the storage capacity in a direction parallel to the wall studs.
An embodiment of the component storage system described above may also be slightly modified for use in an in-ceiling application wherein the top and bottom sections are deeper thereby allowing multiple expansion boxes being utilized to provide more component storage capability.
Yet another embodiment of the present invention includes slightly modifying the main frame such that the component storage system of the present invention is configured to be used with a drop-ceiling. The dimensions of the component storage system are altered to match the size of the drop ceiling grid being used. Another embodiment of the component storage system of the present invention includes using a main frame between two wall studs, but adapting the depth and width of the constructed system to be positioned around such objects as a chimney to create useable component storage space above a fireplace. Additional system components described herein are used in conjunction with the main fiame described above to result in this configuration.
Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiments and the accompanying drawing figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The accompanying drawings form a part of the specification and are to be read in conjunction therewith, in which like reference numerals are employed to indicate like or similar parts in the various views, and wherein:
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a main frame of an embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an expansion box of an embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
FIG. 4 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
FIG. 7 is a side view of one embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
FIG. 8 is a side view of one embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention;
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention; and
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a component storage system in accordance with the teachings of the present invention.
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
The following detailed description of the invention references the accompanying drawing figures that illustrate specific embodiments in which the invention can be practiced. The embodiments are intended to describe aspects of the invention in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. Other embodiments can be utilized and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The present invention is defined by the appended claims and the description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense and shall not limit the scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.
FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of an in-wall component storage system 10 of the present invention as assembled. As seen in FIG. 1, component storage system 10 includes a main frame 12 and two expansion boxes 14. FIG. 2 illustrates the main frame 12 in more detail. Main frame 12 includes a first side panel 16, a second side panel 18, a substantially open front 20, a substantially open back 22, a substantially open top 24, and a substantially open bottom 26. First side panel 16 includes a first side top edge 28, a bottom edge 30, a front edge 32, and a back edge 34. Second side panel 18 includes a top edge 36, bottom edge 38, a front edge 40, and a back edge 42. First side panel 16 and second side panel 18 are substantially solid panels and may include one or more knock-outs 44 to accommodate wiring. However, first side panel 16 and second side panel 18 may be partially or substantially open (not shown), may have a frame configuration (not shown), or another configuration resulting in an substantially open side allowing wiring to be run through the opening(s) in the side. Further, the left and right side panels may be removably coupled to the top and bottom elements of the frame in order to facilitate placing multiple component systems in series. Each side panel 16 and 18 has a plurality of mounting apertures 46 through which a fastener can be used to couple each side to a building support.
As shown in FIG. 2, component storage system 10 further includes front 20 being substantially open and having a front top bar 48 and a f ont bottom bar 50. Front top bar 48 and front bottom bar 50, together with front edges 32 and 40 of side panels 16 and 18, substantially defining an opening in front 20. Front top bar 48 spans between first side panel 16 and second side panel 18 and is coupled to first side panel 16 proximate the top edge 28 and to second side panel 18 proximate top edge 36. Front bottom bar 50 similarly spans between first side panel 16 and second side panel 18 and is coupled to first side panel 16 and second side panel 18 proximate the bottom edges 30 and 38. Top bar 48 and bottom bar 50 may have a rectangular cross section as shown and each may include the long side horizontally or vertically orientated. FIG. 2 shows top bar 48 and bottom bar 50 as being a substantially planar configuration.
Alternatively, top bar 48 and/or bottom bar 50 may have an "L" shaped cross-section.
As shown in FIG. 2, back 22 is substantially open and includes back rim 52 that is continuous around the perimeter and extends inward toward the center of back 22. Back rim 52 further includes back top bar 54, back bottom bar 56, back first side bar 58 (hidden), and back second side bar 60 wherein said bars 54, 56, 58 and 60 substantially define an opening in back 22. Back first side bar 58 is coupled to first side panel 16 proximate back edge 34 and back second side bar 60 is coupled to second side panel 18 proximate back edge 42. Back rim 52 may further include a plurality of threaded apertures (not shown) or other coupling mechanism distributed around rim 52 and configured to receive a removable back panel 74 as further described below.
Back top bar 54 spans between first side panel 16 and second side panel 18 and is coupled to first side panel 16 proximate the top edge 28 and to second side panel 18 proximate top edge 36. Back bottom bar 56 similarly spans between first side panel 16 and second side panel 18 and is coupled to first side panel 16 proximate bottom edge 30 and second side panel 18 proximate bottom edge 38. Back top bar 54 and back bottom bar 56 may have a rectangular cross section as shown and each may include the long side horizontally or vertically orientated. FIG. 2 shows top bar 54 and bottom bar 56 as being a substantially planar configuration.
Alternatively, back top bar 54 and/or bottom bar 56 may have an "L" shaped cross-section.
Top 24 is substantially open, the opening defined in part by front top bar 48, back top bar 56, a first top ledge 62 and a second top ledge 64. First top ledge 62 is coupled to first side panel 16 proximate the top end 28 and lies substantially perpendicular to the first side panel 16 and extends inwardly toward second side panel 18. Second top ledge 64 is coupled to second side panel 18 proximate the top end 36 and lies substantially perpendicular to the second side panel 18 and extends inwardly toward the first side panel 16. Top ledges 62 and 64 may be coupled to front top bar 54 and back top bar 56 in addition to, or instead of, being coupled to the side panels 16, 18. First top ledge 62 and second top ledge 64 include one or more apertures 66 configured to receive a fastener.
Bottom 26 is substantially open, the opening defined in part by front bottom bar 50, back bottom bar 56, a first bottom ledge 68 (hidden) and a second bottom ledge 70. First bottom ledge 68 is coupled to first side panel 16 proximate bottom end 30 and lies substantially perpendicular to first side panel 16 and extends inwardly toward second side panel 18. Second bottom ledge 70 is coupled to second side panel 18 proximate the bottom end 38 and lies substantially perpendicular to the second side panel 18 and extends inwardly toward the first side panel 16. Bottom ledges 68 and 70 may be coupled to front bottom bar 50 and back bottom bar 56 in addition to, or instead of, being coupled to the side panels 16, 18. First bottom ledge 68 and second bottom ledge 70 each include one or more apertures 72 configured to receive a fastener as shown
As shown in FIG. 2, main frame 12 further includes a removable back panel 74. Back panel 74 is a substantially solid plate panel having a plurality of mounting apertures 78 disposed thereon and configured to facilitate mounting electronic components on back panel 74. Any number of electronic components may be stored using the component storage system of the present invention, including audio and/or visual components, data storage devices, security components, computer components. Examples include, but are not limited to: satellite receiver, cable receiver, DVD players, external hard drives, stereo receiver, amplifier, Apple® TV, GOOGLE® TV, infrared remote control receiver, internet video streaming receiver, high- definition media player, BLU-RAY DISC® player, computer, computer processor, a wireless network access point, networking switches, communication products, networking equipment, 2- channel amplifier, 7.1 surround receiver, speaker switches, input switches, other media players, IT products, communication or phone products, security and fire protection products, data storage and surveillance equipment or any other electronic component for home or commercial use now known or hereafter developed.
Main frame 12 and the described components thereof maybe fabricated from sheet metal ranging in thickness from about twenty-eight (28) gauge to about one-quarter inch (¼") thickness. However, main frame 12 may be fabricated from any thickness of metal plate now known or hereafter common in the art. Main frame 12 may be constructed using any known metal known in the art including, but not limited to: stainless steel, steel, copper, brass, aluminum, titanium, tungsten, nickel or any other known metal. Further, main frame 12 may be cast of cast iron, aluminum, or any other metal. Alternatively, main frame 12 may be a polymeric material or polymeric composite material now known or hereafter developed that is molded, extruded, or otherwise formed through any process now known or hereafter developed. Another embodiment includes main frame 12 being constructed of carbon fiber or any other composite now known or hereafter developed.
Building support may be a wall stud, ceiling/floor beam or joist, an infill stud, a ceiling/floor slab, a ceiling tile support grid, or any other building structural support or framing member now known or hereafter developed. Common building structural support or framing members are dimensional lumber (2x4, 2x6, 2x8, 2x10, 2x12 or other known dimensional lumber) or engineered lumber such as I-joists, glulam, lvl, microlam, paralams, or other engineer lumber or metal studs, joists or trusses, or other commercial steel framing. The depth of the main frame 12 of component storage system 10 of the present invention is the distance between front edge 32, 40 and back edge 34, 42 of each side panel 16, 18. The depth may be any distance that is less than or equal to the applicable depth of the building supports that component storage system 10 is being installed in-between.
In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the depth is about four inches (4") as first and second sides 16, 18 will abut the wall sheathing on the closed side and extend to be substantially flush with the interior face of the opening in the finished wall surface. In another embodiment, component storage system 10 is placed between two 2x12 ceiling/floor joists, the dimension between front edge 32, 40 and back edge, 34, 42 may be up to twelve inches (12"). This dimension would place back edge 34, 42 proximate the top edge of the ceiling/floor joist with the front edge 32, 44 being substantially flush with the finished surface of the ceiling.
The width of main frame 12 of component storage system 10 of the present invention is the distance between first side panel 16 and second side panel 18. Similarly, the width of main frame 12 of component storage system 10 may correspond to the clear spacing between adjacent building supports. For example, wall studs are commonly spaced at sixteen inches (16") on center thereby providing fourteen and a one-half inches (14 1/2") clear spacing between adjacent members. Ceiling joist are commonly spaced at twenty-four (24), sixteen (16), or twelve (12) inches on center providing corresponding clear spacing of twenty two-and-one-half (21 ½), fourteen-and-one-half (14 ½), and ten-and-one-half (10 ½) inches respectively.
The height of main frame 12 of component storage system 10 of the present invention may range from about twelve inches (12") to about twenty four inches (24"). However, any height of main frame 12 between about ten inches (10") to about thirty six inches (36") is within the scope of the present invention. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) defines a standard width for a rack mounted component to be nineteen inches (19"). Therefore, one embodiment of the component storage system of the present invention has a height that facilitates receiving components having the IEEE standard width of 19" in a vertical orientation. The dimensions of other embodiments of the present invention may similarly be selected based upon the particular installation location or components to be stored in the component storage system of the present invention
Now turning to FIG. 3, an embodiment of expansion box 14 having an expansion housing 100 and a cover panel 102 is shown. Expansion housing 100 includes a front side 104, a back panel 106, a top side 108, a bottom panel 110, a first side panel 112 and a second side panel 114. Back panel 106, bottom panel 110, first side panel 112 and second side panel 114 are substantially solid. Back panel 106 may include a plurality of apertures 132 patterned or configured to allow for the coupling of a component thereon. Bottom panel 110, first side panel 112 and second side panel 114 may include one or more knock-outs 136 as shown for wiring or venting purposes. The width defined by first side panel 112 and second side panel 114 is less than the opening defined in top 24 and bottom 26 of main frame 12 by first and second top ledges 62 and 64 and first and second bottom ledges 68 and 70. The depth defined by front side panel 104 and back side panel 106 is less than the framing support dimension and/or the depth of the opening defined in top 24 and bottom 26 of main frame 12.
First side panel 112 includes a first side top flange 116 proximate top 108 of expansion housing 100. First side top flange 116 is integral with or coupled to first side panel 112 and is substantially perpendicular to first side panel 1 12 and extends outwardly and away from expansion box 14. Second side panel 114 includes a second side top flange 118 proximate top 108 of expansion housing 100. Second side top flange 118 is integral with or coupled to second side panel 114 and is substantially perpendicular to second side panel 114 and extends outwardly and away from expansion box 14. The distance between a first outward edge 120 and a second outward edge 122 is greater than the opening defined in top 24 and bottom 26 of main frame 12 and is less than the clear distance between the two building structure members to which the side panels 16, 18 of component storage system 10 of the present invention are coupled to.
Front side 104 and top side 108 are substantially open. Front side 104 includes a front first side rim 124, a second side rim 126, and front bottom rim 128 that substantially define the opening in front 104 as shown in FIG. 3. Front first side rim 124 is coupled to the first side panel 112 and lies perpendicular to first side panel 112 and extends inwardly toward second side panel 114. Second side rim 126 is coupled to second side panel 114 and lies substantially perpendicular to second side panel 14 and extends inwardly toward first side panel 1 12. Bottom rim 128 is coupled to bottom panel 110 and lies substantially perpendicular to bottom panel 110 and extends inwardly toward top side 108.
Expansion box 14 further includes a back panel 106. Back panel 106 is a substantially solid plate panel having a plurality of mounting apertures disposed thereon as shown and configured to facilitate mounting electronic components on back panel 106. Any number of electronic components, including audio and/or visual components, data storage devices, computer components including but not limited to: satellite receiver, cable receiver, DVD players, external hard drives, stereo receiver, amplifier, Apple® TV, GOOGLE® TV, infrared remote control receiver, internet video streaming receiver, high-definition media player, BLU- RAY DISC® player, computer, computer processor, a wireless network access point, networking switches, communication products, networking equipment, 2-channel amplifier, 7.1 surround receiver, speaker switches, input switches, other media players, IT products, communication or phone products, security and fire protection products, data storage and surveillance equipment or any other electronic component for home or commercial use now known or hereafter developed.
FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention wherein cover panel 102 is a solid panel. However, cover panel 102 could include a plurality of perforations to facilitate air flow through expansion box 14 and/or component storage system 10 of the present invention. As shown, cover panel 102 includes a plurality of apertures 142 that are configured to receive a fastener thereby allowing cover panel 102 to be removably coupled to rims 124, 126, and 128 of expansion housing 100 wherein the fasteners are received into apertures 132 in rims 124, 126, and 128.
An embodiment of the component storage system (not shown) of the present invention may include first side panel 16 and second side panel 18 as separate and individual components. Each side panel would have at least one ledge, and preferably two ledges, coupled to the side panels 16 and 18 as described above. When each side panel 16 and 18 is coupled to adjacent support members the flanges define an opening that an expansion box 14 may be slid through and flange 116 of expansion box 14 may be coupled to the ledges of the first and second side panel 16 and 18 as described herein. This embodiment is similar to that shown in FIG. 1 except there are no top or bottom bars that connect the two side panels 16 and 18.
FIG. 4 illustrates an in-ceiling embodiment of a component storage system 200 of the present invention. In addition to many of the features described above that are also incorporated into this embodiment, in-ceiling component storage system 200 includes a main frame 202 having a first side panel 204 and a second side panel 206 wherein the depth of each side panel 204, 206 corresponds to the depth of a ceiling joist of dimensional lumber. In this embodiment, the depth of the side panels 204, 206 is twelve inches (12"). This increased depth also applies to a top 208 and a bottom 210 and, as shown in FIG. 4, top 208 and bottom 210 are each configured to incorporate at least three expansion boxes 214.
FIG. 4 also illustrates in-ceiling component storage rack 200 further including a cover panel 216. Cover panel 216 as shown is configured to be used when a projector is hung from the ceiling. Cover panel 216 may include one or more electrical box knock-outs 218 and one or more wiring conduit/projector mount knock-outs 220. Wiring conduit/projector mount knockouts 220 are configured to receive wiring conduit 222 and/or projector mounting component as shown.
FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of an component storage system 300 of the present invention that also incorporates many of the features described above and is further configured to be used to store components and mount a projector, television or camera from the ceiling. Drop ceiling component storage system 300 includes a main frame 302. Main frame 302 includes four corner columns 304, a top rim 306, and a bottom rim 308. Top rim 306 has four sides disposed in a substantially rectangular configuration and may be configured to be mounted to the underside of a ceiling joist, a beam, a floor slab, or other known ceiling support member. Bottom rim 308 has four sides disposed in a substantially rectangular configuration and is configured to bear against and fit within the grid of a suspended ceiling defining a single tile. Corner column 304 has an "L" shaped cross-section. Corner columns 304 are configured to be positioned between and coupled to top rim 306 and bottom rim 308. The "L" shaped cross- section of corner columns 304 allow each corner column 304 to be coupled to two sides of the top rim 306 and bottom rim 308 as shown. The outer edge of each arm of the center column helps define an open side of the main frame. FIG. 5 shows an embodiment having all four sides of main frame 302 open and multiple expansion boxes 310 have passed through the open side of main frame 302 and coupled to one arm each of two corner columns 304. As can be seen in FIG. 5, an embodiment of drop ceiling component storage system 300 may include twelve (12) expansion boxes coupled to the corner columns. Therefore, four corner columns 304 necessarily provide the structural integrity of main frame 302 and carry the weight of the components contained within each expansion box 310 and transfer the load to top rim 304. Top rim 304 may include a plurality of connections to the building structure above the drop ceiling. Now turning to FIG. 6, this embodiment of the component storage system of the present invention incorporates many of the features described above and is further configured to provide component storage above a fireplace as illustrated in FIG. 10. Fireplace component storage rack 400 includes a main frame 402, a rear cover plate 404, a fireplace can base 406, a fireplace can top 408, a first side panel 410, a second side panel 412, and a back panel 414. Main frame 402 has similar properties of main frame 12 described above. Main frame 402 includes a top back bar 416 and a bottom back bar 418a (hidden) wherein the back bars 416 and 418 are rectangular bars in a vertical orientation as shown.
Fireplace can base 406 includes a base flange 420 that is substantially perpendicular to can base 406 and extends outwardly as shown. Can base 406 includes a first side 424 and a second side 426. First and second sides 424 and 426 may include a return portion extending upward and substantially perpendicular to can base 406. Can top 408 includes a top flange 422, a first side 428 and a second side 430. Top flange 422 is substantially perpendicular to can top 408 and extends outwardly as shown. First and second sides 428 and 430 may include a return portion extending downward and substantially perpendicular to can top 408 as shown. Can base 406 is coupled to first panel 410 proximate first side 424 and can top 408 is also coupled to first panel 410 proximate first side 428 as shown. Can base 406 is also coupled to second panel 412 proximate second side 426 and can top 408 is coupled to second panel 412 proximate second side 430. Back panel 414 is coupled to one or more of can base 406, can top 408, first side panel 410, or second side panel 412 to substantially enclose firebox 432 as shown in FIG. 6.
Once firebox 432 is formed, it can be slid through the back of main frame 402 through an opening partially defined by top back bar 416 and bottom back bar 418 wherein base flange 420 and top flange 422 bear against bottom bar 418 and top bar 416 respectively. Base flange 420 may be coupled to bottom bar 418 and top flange 422 may be coupled to top back bar 416. The width of firebox 432 may be less than the width of main frame 402. Thus, rear cover plate 404 may be coupled to top back bar 416 and bottom back bar 418 adjacent to firebox 432 to cover the entire opening in the back of main frame 432.
In use, in-wall component storage system 10 of the present invention is installed between two wall studs 138 as shown in FIG. 7. The wall studs 138 must be located behind a sheetrock or plasterboard wall. Once the wall studs 138 are located, the exact location above the ground and between which two studs 138 is selected. A hole is cut in the sheetrock or plasterboard corresponding to the height and width of the main frame 12. Main frame 12 is inserted in the hole and is received into the wall. Main frame 12 is then coupled to each adjacent wall stud 138 as shown. If an electrical line is not located within the wall section, then an installer may cut a hole to feed a cable through in order to plug an extension cord into an existing outlet as shown. The power cord may provide power to at least one power strip 140 that may be mounted within main frame 12 as shown.
Within expansion box 14 A, the component is mounted to the back panel 130 of expansion housing 100 of expansion box 14A. The front cover 102 is coupled to expansion housing 100 to enclose the component within expansion box 14A. Expansion box 14 generally has a height that is less than the height of main frame 12. Expansion box 14A is inserted into the wall and within main frame 12 with bottom panel 110 down and lowered through bottom 26 of main frame 12 until flanges 116 and 118 bear upon first and second bottom ledges 68 and 70. Flanges 116 and 118 are coupled to ledges 68 and 70 and may be coupled to other members of main frame 12. A knock-out of bottom panel 110 may be knocked out to facilitate threading the power cord through the expansion box 14. This lower expansion box 14 is now substantially within the wall and is completely hidden.
As shown in FIG. 7, an upper expansion box 14B is also used in this embodiment. One or more components are similarly mounted to back panel 130 as shown. Front cover 102 is coupled to the upper expansion housing 100 to enclose the components. Similarly, the assembled expansion box 14B is inserted into the wall within main frame 12 and is raised through the opening in top 24 until flanges 116 and 118 bear against top ledges 62 and 64. Upper expansion box 14B is coupled to main frame 12 in order to fix the position of expansion box 14B within the wall and prevent it from sliding back down into main frame 12.
Finally, other components, such as a 2-channel receiver and an infrared remote sensor described above may be mounted to removable back panel 74 as shown. Removable back panel 74 is then inserted into main frame 12 and coupled to back rim 52. One embodiment of the present invention includes main frame 12 being configured to receive components having a height of 2U. A "U" is the standard height of a component to be placed in a rack and identified by the IEEE as 1 ¾". Thus, main frame 12 may receive one component having a height of 2U, or may allow for two components having a height of 1U to be stacked on top of each other and secured within main frame 12. The power cord may then be threaded through expansion box 14A, out the wall and then plugged into an existing outlet as shown. Another embodiment includes an electrical wire ran directly to the component storage system 10. Finally, a finish frame 80 may be secured to main frame 12 to provide a finished look to the installed component storage system. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7 includes main frame 12 being open. An alternative embodiment includes a door or panel incorporated into finish frame 80 to enclose main frame 12. A flat panel television may be mounted on the wall to cover finish frame 80 and the components in main frame 12. Some 31" and most 37" flat screen televisions will cover and hide one in-wall component storage system 10 when installed as described herein. Further, a fan or other air movement device now known or hereafter developed may be configured to cool the components stored in the present invention.
The in-ceiling embodiment described herein installs in substantially the same way, except within the ceiling instead of a wall. The main frame 202 will be mounted between two ceiling joists or beams and the expansion boxes will be in a horizontal position between ceiling joists or beams. Cover 216 is coupled to main frame 202 and a projector or television may be coupled to cover 216 or other element of the installed component storage system of the present invention after the component storage system is installed in the ceiling.
FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention wherein two in-wall component storage systems 10A and 10B are inserted in adjacent wall cavities. An embodiment of the in-wall storage system 10 of the present invention include main frames 12A and 12B having a height such that when two main frames are installed in adjacent spaces between wall studs, the openings created are such that the two adjacent component storage systems will fit behind and be completely hidden by most 37" flat screen televisions. However, any number of component storage systems of the present invention may be installed in series as desired.
An additional embodiment (not shown) includes two main frames 12A and 12B being installed in adjacent spaces between wall studs similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 and further including removing a portion of the middle stud to allow components having a dimension wider than that provided by an enclosed single main frame 12. This embodiment includes coupling a portion of the top and bottom of the sides of main frame 12A and 12B proximate the middle stud to the middle stud and removing a middle portion of the stud and the sides of the main frames 12A and 12B. A sheet metal panel or strut is coupled to a portion of each main frame and is configured to transfer the load applied to the interrupted wall stud and provide substantial structural continuity. The oversized component may then be mounted to both back panels as necessary and extend through the interrupted stud and main frames 12A and 12B. Using multiple links allows any number of component storage systems of the present invention to be linked together as needed.
FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of the component storage system of the present invention configured to be mounted to a grid in a drop ceiling. Drop ceiling component storage system 300 as described above is shown installed between ceiling/floor structural members 312 (joists as shown) and the grid 314 of the drop ceiling. Cables or wires 316 are preferably coupled to corner columns 304 or to top rim 306 proximate corner columns 304 and then extend and are coupled to the ceiling/floor structural members 312. Cables 316 may be triangulated to prevent sway and displacement of drop ceiling component storage system 300. Rigid struts (not shown) may be used in place or in combination with cables 316 to prove a more stable support that prevents upward displacement.
FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of the component storage system 400 of the present invention configured to be mounted adjacent to a fireplace 434. Main frame 402 is mounted between two studs 436 as described in detail above. Rear cover plate 404 is positioned on the side closest to vent 438 so that fireplace can 432 can be slid into the wall portion adjacent to vent 438 as shown. Components may be coupled to dividers that orient the components vertically within firebox can 432 and parallel to sides 410 and 412. Components may be also stored in horizontal orientation if they have a width less than that of the firebox can 432. As described above, if two of the fireplace component storage systems 400 are installed into adjacent spaces between wall studs, the two boxes may be completely hidden and covered by most 60" flat screen television sets.
From the foregoing, it may be seen that the component storage system of the present invention is particularly well suited for the proposed usages thereof. Furthermore, since certain changes may be made in the above invention without departing from the scope hereof, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawing be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. It is also to be understood that the following claims are to cover certain generic and specific features described herein.
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