PRIORITY CLAI

The present international Patent, Cooperation. Treat application claims priority to United States Patent Application No. 1.5/480,930, entitled "System and Method for Emergency Exit Lighting Inventors", Sled on April 6, 2017, a d United States Patent Application No. 15/946,051 , -entitled "System and Method for Snap-On Emergency Exit Lighting- Inventors", filed on April 5, 2018, both applications herein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to devices, used for emergency exit lighting, and more particularly to a system and method for fixed and replaceable emergency exit lighting.

Description ^' Of Rel ated Art

The field of emergency exit lighting has remained relatively stagnant for the past few decades. ^' The design of valid emergency exit fighting i.s governed by local rules and international norms such as the international Building Code and the international Fire Code. Typical emergency exit lighting is comprised of large lights strategically placed in. as few areas as possible.

Most, if not all, -currently available emergency lightin is comprised, of .fluorescent or incandescent, .lighting ^" sources. LED emergency lights may be an improvement in terms of power consumption, longevity, cost, design, and ease of use. The current invention may also be an improvement, in terms of ease of manufacture and installation.

Prior art lias described -a variety of emergency lighting systems and methods, and a variet of LED lighting systems and methods. However, none provide a reliable LED emergency lighting system and method. Prior art has described a T-bar for a suspended ceilin with, heal sinks for LED lights. This apparatus is inadequate and overcomplicated for emergency LED lights. .Since emergency LED lights run for limited amounts of time, heat sinks ma be unnecessary . In d itio , this apparatus is ...inadequate for emergency lightin testing and battery ^■ purposes;

Prior art has described a iight-errattmg ceiling tile apparatus. This apparatus is inadequate fo emergency lighting purposes as it does not include an ability to test the- apparatus Or provide for a backup battery.

Prior art has described suspended. LED lighting systems. This apparatus is inadequate for emergency lighting purposes as it does not ^' include an ability to test the apparatus or provide tor a backup battery.

Prior art has described emergenc LED Sighting systems that rest on T-bars m the place of ceiling files. These systems are inadequate because they consume too much space and are not aesthetically pleasing. These systems -function differently than the present invention.

Prior art has described emergency lighting systems located: in the floor or adjacent to the floor. These systems are inadequate because they may not provide enough illumination to satisfy emergency exit, lighiing codes and may easily break compared to ceiling doorway, and wait emergency exit lights.

Prior art has described various emergency exit lighting strips. These systems are inadequate because they cannot replace a standard T~bar or doorway and cannot be integrated within, a wail.

117} BRIEF SII MA&Y OF THE INVENTION

[ 18] The present invention provides among other things a system for emergency exit lighting using LED lighting fixtures and a method for testing emergency exit lighting fixtures. H is an objective of the invention to provide emergency lighting ^' .fixtures- that are safer, more economical, eas to use and easy to install, easy to test, and that provide better and more useful emergency lighting man e isting emergency lighting systems,

[ 19] The above and other objectives may be achieved using systems involving, an elongate semirigid flat base extending between a first end and a second end, said flat base comprising a right edge, a left edge, a top plane, and a. bottom plane. At least one right top catch may extend along a portion of said right edge. At least one left top catch may extend along a portion of said left edge. At .least one right bottom catch may extend along a portion of said right edge. At least one left bottom catch may extend along a portion of -said left edge. At least one LED light ma be mounted on said bottom plane. The LED lights) should be electronically coupled Ip an LED driver, -which should also be electronically coupled to a first, continuous power source, a backup battery power source, and an on/off test button .switch, A translucent lens pane! ma be mounted at least partially below said bottom plane via said -at least one right bottom catch and said at least one left bottom catch and adapted to diffuse light from said LED light The fixture ma he mounted t a T-grid by attaching said at least one left top catch and said at least one right top catch to the T-grid,

[20] Some aspects of the invention may include a translucent- lens that comprises ^' -at: least one cutout, ith a red or green color translucent Sens panel placed within the at least one cut-out.

[21 J Some aspects of the invention ma include whi e, red, and/or green LED(s).

[22] Some aspects of the invention may include a wireless antenna electronically coupled to the on/ ff test swi ch and the LE driver. [23] Some, aspects of the invention may include- -a wireless antenna ^" that is adapted to receive a signal from a Wi-Fi connected smartphoue application so as to activate the on/off test switch,

[ 24] Some aspects of the invention may further comprise a ^" f~grid coupled with at least one left top catch and at least _. one- right top catch,

[25] Some aspects ^' of the- invention may include the first bracket end and the second bracket end each adapted to couple to a ceiling T-grid (T-bar).

[26 j Some aspec ts of the invention, may include an elongate substantially rigid fl at base the further comprises a first flange and a second flange, with a recessed channel between the first ilange aud the second flange.

[27] The above and other objectives ma be achieved by using a method of installing a snap-on emergency exit lighting fixture comprising the steps of; drilling at least one wire-path aperture through a ^' T-grid; attachin said lighting fixture via. at least one: catch to said T-grid; guiding a lighting fixture conduit through at least ne wire~path aperture; and electronically coupling said lighting fixture to a power supply.

[28] The above and other ^' objectives may be achieved by using a method further comprised of first removing the T-grid from a ceiling, prior to the step of drilling,

[29] The above and other objectives may be achieved by using a method further comprising the step of replacing the T-grid with the attached lightin fixture in the ceiling after the step of guiding,

[30] The above and other objectives may be achieved by using a .method further comprising the step of electronically coupling the fighting fixture to an LED driver..

[31 ] Aspects. and applications of the invention presented here are described, below -in the drawings and detailed description of the invention. ^' Unless specifically noted, it is intended that the words and phrases in the specification and the claims be given their plain, ordinary, and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill in the applicable arts. The inventor i -fully aware that he can be his own lexicographer if desired. The inventor expressly elects, as his own lexicographer, to use only th plain and ordinary meaning of terms m he specification and claims unless he clearly -states otherwise arid then farther, expressly sets forth the "special" definition of that term and explain Stow it differs from the plain and ordinary meaning. Absent such clear statements of intent to apply a "special" ^' definition, it is the inventor's intent and desire that the simple, plain and ordinary meaning to the terras be applied to the interpretation of the -specification, and c laims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

A more complete understanding of the present invention may be derived b referring to the detailed description when considered in connection with the foiiowki illustrative figures, in the figures, like reference numbers refer to l ike elements or acts throughout the figures.

FIG. 1. depicts an isometric top view of a possible embodiment of the present invention that mm ^' be used in a ceiling,

FIG-. 2 depicts a front view of a possibie embodiment of the present invention that may be used in a ceiling.

FIG. 3 depicts an example flowchart detailing a typical LED driver that may be used an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 depicts a frontal view of a possible embodiment of the present invention that may be used in a wail.

FIG. 5 depicts an isometric view of a possible embodiment of the present invention in an installed -configuration. on a cutaway wail

FIG. 6 depicts a partial isometric view of a possible -embodiment of the present invention that may be used on a doorframe.

FIG. 7 depicts a front view of a possible embodiment of the present invention in an installed configuration.

FIG ^' . -8 depicts an example flowchart detailing: a method of testing an emergency lighting system.

FIG. 9 depicts an isometric- view of a possible embodiment of the present invention that may be used in a ceiling.

FIG, 10 depicts -a frontal view of a possible embodiment of the present invention that -may be used in a ceiling. [44] FIG. H depicts a frontal View of a possible embodiment of the present invention that may be used in a ceiling.

[45] FIG. 12 depicts a partial isometric view of a possible enibodimeiit of he present invention that may be used in a celling,

[46] FIG, 13 depicts a partial isometric view of an end of a possible embodiment of the present invention that may he used in a ceiling,

[47] FIG-. 14 depicts an example flowchart detailing a method of installing a possible em odi ent of the invention.

[48] Elements and acts in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and have not necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence o embodiment.

.DETAILED DESC IPTIO OF THE INVENTION

[50] In. the following description, and for the purposes of explanation, numerous- specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding- of the various aspects of the invention. It will be understood, however, by those skilled in the relevant arts, that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, known structures and devices are shown or discussed more generally in order t avoid obscuring the invention. It should be noted that there are many different and alternative- configurations, devices and technologies to which the disclosed inventions may be applied:. The full scope of the inventions is not limited to the examples that are described -below.

[51] An embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 1. An emergency exit lighting fixture, 1 may comprise the following: a first end bracket 2, second end bracket 4, an elongate thin rigid spine 1 , an elongate substantially rigid flat base- 12 _» with top plane 13 and a bottom plane.. An LED light may be coupled to the bottom, plane,.

[52] The emergency exit lighting fixture 1 may further comprise a substantially thicke portion support rim 6 for stability, structural support, and ease of manufacture. ^' The support rim may be solid, hollow, or a combination ^' thereof. The support .rim 6 may be coupled to die rigid spine 10 and comprise up to half of the width of the emergency ex it lighting fixture I. The rigid spine 10 may further comprise a plurality of holes 8 ^' and if so thai the fixture can pair wit complementary hanging deviceCs) so that it may be suspended from a ceiling; such as with one or more wire or supports holding die -fixture through th holes 8 and/or 9. The rigid spine 10 may also comprise one or more substantially rectangular cutouts 16 through which a power -source, such, as a wire or a conduit with one or more wires inside, may be direaded through one or more holes 14 in the flat base 12 to power at least one LED light (not shown) coupled to the bottom plane. Additional holes 8 and/or 9 may be added to- save weight and/or dissipate heat.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 1 may replace a T-Gtid (also known as a T-foat), as is knows in the art for standard structure in drop ceilings. Flanges on standard T-Grids. may support acoustic tiles, air conditioning vents, and the like. The emergency exit lighting fixture may also support acoustic tiles. T-Grids, and this embodiment of the present invention, typically come in two-foot or four-foot segments. The first end bracket 2 and the second end bracket 4 may be adapted to attach, to regular T-Grids. The thicker portion 6 of the elongate rigid spine JO: may have a substantially rectangular or circular axial cross-section.

The flai base 1.2 may farther comprise one or more edge -flanges, including a first edge flange 18, which may support acoustic tiles and/or a translucent lens panel 20 mounted to the flat base 1.2.· The translucent lens panel 2t> may be substantially the same size and shape as the flat base 12, or it may be smaller.

The rigid spine 10 and f t base 12 may be formed from variety of materials, such as metals, plastics, and/or wood. The; rigid spine 10 and fiat, base 12 may be lormed together as one extrusion, or they may be formed as ^' separate pieces and coupled together through fasteners, glue, welding, and/or any other way. The rigid spine 1.0 may be located substantially equidistant between the edges of the flat base 12. The fiat base 12 is .substantially perpendicular to the rigid spine it* and is substantially the same length as the rigid spine 10. The flat base 12 may have a substantially rectangular shape with a top plane 13 and a bottom plane.

The first end bracket 2 and. the second end bracket 4 may be adapted to couple with existrag T-Grids or a different ceiling assembly. They may couple through the use of fasteners, glue- welding, and/of -magnets. A plurality of holes 3 may be used to couple the first end bracket 2 and second end bracket 4 to existing ceiling assemblies, such as T-Grids. It is intended that the emergency exit lighting fixture be relatively easy to manufactnre and install.

One or more antennae may be -mounted to the emergency exit lightin fixture 1 in order to receive wireless, Wi-Fi. RF1D, and/or Bluetooth signals.

Referring now to FIG. 2 _» a frontal view of the possible embodiment in FIG. 1 of the present invention is shown with a first end bracket: 2, second, end bracket 4, elongate thin rigid spine 10 with a support rim 6, elongate substantially rigid flat base 32: with a top plane and a bottom, plane 24, first edge flange 18, second edge flange \% translucent lens panel 20, at least one LED light 22 coupled, to the bottom plane 24 and located within a recessed channel 26, and an -on/off test button switch 27 along the length of the emergency exit lighting fixture. The First end bracket 2 and the second end bracket 4 may be adapted to couple with exiting T- Grids or a diilirent ceiling assembly. They may couple through the use of asteners:, glue, welding, and/or magnets, ft is intended that the emergency exit lighting fixture be relatively easy to -manufacture and install. A plurality of holes 3 ma be used to couple the first end bracket 2 and second end bracket 4 to existing ceiling assemblies, such as T-Grids,

The edge flanges 18 may be used to support and hold acoustic ceiling tiles and/or a translucent lens panel 211. The translucent lens panel 29 may be clear, - frosty, red, and or green. The translucent len panel 2ft may also have at least one area cut out in the shape of the word EXIT, A red or green trans lucent fens panel may be placed within, the. cut but portion. The translucent tens panel 20 may also have at least one area cut out in the shape of an arrow, to indicate emergency exit direction _* A red or green tr ns ucent lefts panel, .may be placed within ihe cut out portion. The translucent lens panel 20 may be easily removable i« order to repair and -maintain the fixture, and to allow the at least one LED Sight 22 to be replaced if necessary. lie translucent ^' lens panel 20 may be glass and/or plastic.

At least one LED light 22 may be mounted o the bottom plane 2 of the flat base 12 through glue, fasteners, welding, or any other means. The LED iighi(s) 22 may be red, green, yellow or white in color (i.e. they may produce light with a red, green, yellow, or white tint). The LED light ^' s) 22 should produce enough light to satisfy applicable emergency lighting codes and regulations. In its Life Safety Code, section 7.9, the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) states that emergency lighting mast be arranged to provide ini tial illumination of not less than an average of one foot-candle and a. minimum at any point of O. t-i ot-candk measured along the path of egress at floor level These levels can decline to a minimum of OTvfoot-candle average and 0.06-foot-candle at any one point at the end of 1.5-hoars., One root-candle is equivalent to 10.764 lumens per square meter or one lumen per square foot. The LED iight(s) 22 may be mounted to the bottom plane 24 of the flat base 12 and within a recessed channel 26. The recessed channel 26 may be useful in directing the light produced by the LED iight(s) 22 downward. nd preventing light diffusion to the sides o upward. The recessed channel 6 may also ease manufacture and installation of the emergency exit lighting fixture.

An on/off test button, switch 27 may be located along the translucent lens panel. 2Θ so that the ^• switch is easily accessible and easily activated to test the emergency exit lighting. Section 7.9.3 of the NFPA's Life Safety Code typically ^' . required a "monthly activation test, where the lights remain illuminated for a minimum of 3 -seconds, and an. annual test where the lights are activated for 1.S -hours to simulate a long-term emergency event; An. aUernat ve embodiment may have the on/off test button switch activated remotely through any of, or a combination of, wired control, wireless, Wi-Fi, RFi ^' D -(radio frequency identification signal), cellular, and/or Bluetooth commands. A cellular application to activate an on/off test button switch 27 may be used. Such an application may save ti e and allow an interested party, such as a fire marshal, the ability to remotely test multiple emergency exit lighting fixtures at one ti me, and easi ly ecord the results of any such testing.

The LED iight(s) 22 should be electronically coupled (i.e. wired) to an LED driver. The LED iight(s) 22 may be electronically coupled through a conduit or whip that snakes through one or more holes 14 in die flat base 12. An LED driver should be electronically coupled to a first, continuous power source, a backup battery · containing . enough power to power the LED lig!it(s) for at least 1.5-hours, mid the on/off test button switch 27. The LED driver will control the ftmctkms of the LED hght(s) 22 and may be modified as necessary. The LED driver may be located at some distance from the LED lightfs), for example, in a typical junction box, and may be electronicall coupled to the LED h ^' ghtCs) through a conduit or whip. The LED dri ver may also be electronically, coupled to one or more antennae in order to receive wireless, Wi-Fi. PiD, and/or Bluetooth signals.

Referring now to FIG. 3, an example flowchart describing a possible LED driver ^■ 100 is shown. A first, or continuous, power source 1.1.0, a backup battery power source 120, and .an on/off test button switch 198 may be ^■■ electronically coupled to an. LED driver J.00 which will control one or more ^' LED light(s) on an emergency light fixture. Other wires, such as to a centralized fire control pane! and/o alarm panel, may also be electronically coupled to the LED driver J 00.

The LED driver 100 may continuously run while it receives power from: either the first, continuous power source 110, or when that power is unavailable, from a backup battery power source 120. f an emergency alert, such as a fire alarm or burglar alarm, is activated, or the on/off test button 190 is switclied to the on position, 130, the LED driver will determine if continuous power is available 140. if no emergency alert is activated and the on/off test button 19 is not switched to the on .position,, the LED driver will keep the LED ilght(s) on the emergency Sight fixture unpo ered and off. If continuous power is available 140, the LED driver will provide that power to e LED emergency light fixture 160. if continuous power is unavailable 140, the LED driver w ll next determine if backup battery power is available SO. If backup battery power is available ISO, the LED driver will provide that power to the LED emergency light fixture 160. if an emergency alert, such as a fire alarm or ^' burglar alarm, is activated, or the on/off test button 19 is switched to the on position, 130, and neither continuous power 140 nor backup batter power 150 is available, then the. ^' LED emergency light, fixture will be broken and will not provide emergency egress lighting, as a fault 170.

Alternative LED driver embodiments may include various power sources, various emergency alerts, electronic couplsng(s) to centralized Soeation(s) and centralized computer sysiem(s). An LED driver may also embody wired, wireless, Wi-Fi. J MD, Bluetooth, antennae, and/or other means of communicating with a computerized system in order to activate the emergenc light fixture, record results of tests, perform diagnostics, or other desired .features. The LED driver may also be electronically coupled to one or more antennae in order to receive wireless, Wi-Fi. P1.IX and/or Bluetooth signals.

Referrin -now to FIG. 4, a front view of a possible embodiment of the invention is shown, A first flange 30 extends between first end 34 and second end 36. A second flange 32 also extends between the first end 34 -and the second end 36. A recessed channel 40 lies between and connects the first flange 30 and the second flange 32. The recessed channel 40 may comprise an elongate substantially rigid fiat base having a substantially rectangular shape, a top plane 41 , -and .a -bottom _. plane. At least one LED light 42 -may be -niou ed on the- top plane 41. A translucent lens panel 38 substantially the same dimensions, or slightly larger than, the top plane 1, may be mounted between the first flang -30 and the second flange 32. A conduit 44 is used to electronically couple the LED lighi(s) 42. to an LED driver.

The LED iigtftfs) 42 should be electronically coupled (i.e. wired) to an LED driver. The- LED light(s) may be white, red, green, or a combination thereof. The LED light(s) 42 ma be electronically coupled through a conduit (also -referred to as a whip) 44. An LED driver should be electronically coupled to a first, continuous power source, a backup battery containing enough power to power the LED Tight(s) for at least 1.5 -hours, and an on/off test button switch. The LED driver will control the functions of die LED lightis) 42 and may be modified as necessary. The LED driver may be located at some distance from the ^' LED liglit(s), for example, in a typical junction box. The LED driver and/or fixture, may also be electronicall coupled to one or more antennae in order to receive wireless, Wi-Fi. RFiD, -and/or Bluetooth signals.

The first flange 3ft, second flange 32, and recessed channel 4ft may he formed from a variety of materials, including metals, plastics, and/or wood.

The translucent lens panel 38 may be clear, frosty, red, and/or green. The translucent lens panel 38 may also have at least one area cat out in the shape of the word EXIT. A red or green, translucent lens panel may be piaced within the cut out portion. The translucent lens panel 38 may also have at least, one area cut out in. the shape of an. arrow, to indicate emergency exit direction. A red or green, translucent lens panel may be piaced within the cist out portion. The translucent lens panel 38 may be easily .removable in order to repair and maintain the -fixture, and to allow the at least one LED light 4.2 to be replaced if necessary. The translucent tens panel M may be glass and/or plastic. Referring- no to FiG. 5* a i ^' isometric- view of the possible embodiment m FIG. 4- ^' is shown installed in a. wall. A first flange 30 extend between a first end 34 and a. second e d 36. A second flange 32 also extends between the first end 34 and the second end 6, A recessed channel 40 lies between and connects the first flange 30 and the second flange 32. The recessed channel 40 may comprise an elongate substantially rigid flat base having a substantially rectangular shape, a top plane 41-, and bottom plane, A translucent lens panel 38 substantially the same dimensions., or slightly larger than, the top plane 41, may be mounted between the first flange 3Θ and the second flange 32. A conduit 44 is used to electronically couple at least one LED iight(s) to an LED driver.

The wall-mounted emergency LED light fixture may be mounted within drywall 48, or other types of wall material and coupled io support beams 46. The recessed channel 40 should he no deeper than the thickness of the drywall 48, typically 5/8 of an inch. If the recessed channel 40 is 5/8 of an inch or less deep, the first flange 30 and the second flange ^' 32 could be flush with the- dry wall -48. The first flange 30 and second flange 3 ma be painted over, or finished io match the surrounding ^' dr wall 48.

The wail -mounted emergency LED light .fixture may be mounted an here on a wall, it may be mounted vertically, horizontally, or at an angle. At a height of two feet above the floor, the wall-mounted LED light fixture may provide enough ilhnninatioo to satisfy applicable codes, and may be aesthetically pleasing. This embodime t of the invention may also he installed in a ceiling which has similar characteristics to a wall

Referring now to FIG. 6, an isometric vie of a portion of a possible embodiment of the invention is shown, A doorway emergency exit lighting fixture may comprise a casing 50 with a front 5 and a back 60, a jamb 52, and a stop 54. The casing SO. jamb 52, and stop- 54 may extend to ^' the tight (side easing, side jamb, and side stop), left (side casing, side jamb, and side stop), and top (top casing, top jamb, and top stop) of a doorway,. The easing SO .should have at feast one substantially rectangular cut-out 56 thai is smaller than the easing front 52. There m be one or more cutoutCs) 56 on each of the top easing or side casings. Cut-out(s) 56 on side casings riiay be located two fee or more from the floor, The easing SO, jamb 52, and stop 54 may be comprised of wood, plastics, metals, or a combination thereof.

[76] A translucent lens panel 62 substantially the same dimensions, or slightly larger than, the cutout 56, may be mounted over the cut-out 56, At least one LED light electronically coupled to an LED driver should be placed behind the translucent lens panel 62 to provide -emergency exit and sign illumination. The LED liglit(s) may he white, red, green, or a combination thereof. The LED driver and/or fixture may also ^' be electronically coupled to one or more antennae in order to receive wireless, Wi~Pi, RFID, and/or Bluetooth signals.

[77] The translucent lens panel 62 may be clear, frosty, red, and/or green. The translucent lens panel 62 may also have at. least one area em out in. the shape of the word EXIT 64. (EXIT may ^' be replaced with the equivalent word in any other language.) A red or green translucent lens panel may be placed witMo EXIT cut-out 64. The translucent lens panel 62 may also have at least one area cut ut in the shape of an arrow, to indicate emergency exit direction. A red or green translucent lens panel may be placed within the arrow cut-out portion. The translucent lens panel 62 may be easily removable in order to repair and maintain the fixture, and to allow the at least one LED light to be replaced if necessary. The translucent lens panel 62 ma be glass and/or plastic.

[78] An on/off test button switch 6 and an integrated speaker 68 nay be located within the easing 50. The on/off test button switch 66 may be located on the casing Si so that it is easily accessible and easily activated to test the emergency exit lighting. Section 7.9.3 of the NFPA's Life Safety CXxte . typically requires a monthly .activation test, where the lights remain illuminated for a minimum of 30-seco.nds, and an ^' annual test where the lights are activated for 1 .5- hours to simulate a long term emergency event.. An alternative embodiment may have the on/off test button switch activated remotely through aciy of or a combination of wired control, wireless, Wi-Fi, flPflX cellular, and/or Bluetooth -commands. A cellular application to activate an on/off test button switch 66 may be used. Such aft application may save time and allow an interested party, such as a lire marshal, the ability to remotel test multiple emergenc exit .lighting fixtures at one time, and easily record the results of any such testing. The integrated speaker 68 may be electronically coupled t an LED driver or a computerized control. The integrated, speaker 68 m y say such things as "Exit Here" or "E it this way," in English or oilier languages. The sayings may be customized as necessary. The integrated speaker 6% may also be electronically coupled to a public address system.

The doorway emergency exit lighting fixture may be installed, in new construction or retrofit to existing construction. The doorway emergency exit lighting fixture: may b manufactured as one extrusion, or it. may be manufactured in separate piece and coupled together through fasteners, glue, welding, or other means.

Referring now to FIG. 7, front view of the possible embodiment in FIG, 6 is .sho n ins-tailed in a doorway. A doorway emergency exit lighting fixture may comprise a casing 50,

3 jamb, and a stop 54. The casing 50, jamb , arid stop 54 extend to the right (side easing, side jatnb, and side stop), left (side casing, side jamb, and side stop), and top (top casing, top jamb, and top slop) of a doorway. The casing SO should have at least one substantially rectangular cut-out 6 that is smaller than the casing front 52. Ther may be one or more c - out{s) S ⁽ t on each f the top easing or side casings.

A. translucent lens panel 62 substantially the -same dimensions, or slightly larger than, the cutout 56, may be mounted over the cut-out 56, At least one LED light electronically coupled to an .LED driver should, be placed behind the translucent lens panel 62 to provide emergency exit and sign illumination. The LED lighi(s) may be white, red, green, or a combination thereof. The LED driver arid/or a backup battery power source ay be mounted in one or more junction boxes 70 or 74. A conduit 72 .may connect the junction boxes 70 or 74 to the doorway emergency exit lightin fi ture. The LED driver should be electronically coupled to at least one LED !tgbt{s) providing illumination.

The doorway emergency exit lighting fixture may be coupled to the building structure through fasteners, glue, welding, or other means.

Referring now to FiG. 3, an exemplary flowchart detailing a possible method of testing m emergency lighting system in a building is shown. An embodiment of the method may be a user initiating 208 a signal from a remote testing controller, sending 210 the signal from: the remote testing controller to an emergency lighting system, receiving 220 the signal at the emergency lighting system, and 236 indicating functionality,

A user may initiate .200 a signal from a. remote testing controller which is a cellular telephone. A user may initiate 200 the signal through dialing a number, sending a text message, pressing a dedicated button, and/or pressing a button in a dedicated smartphotie application. The remote testing controller may also be a kevfob with a dedicated button for testing an emergency lighting system.

The signal may be sent 210 through Wi-Fi, infrared, RF!D, Bluetooth,, and/or a cellular network. The signal .may be received 220 b the emergency lightin system through an antenna electronically coupled to the emergency lighting system.. The emergency lighting system may be ^' art LED emergency lighting fixture located within a building.

Functionality of the emergency Sighting system (that is, whether the emergency lighting system works properly or not) may be indicated 23Θ on the remote testing controller, on a centralized, control panel, and/or on the emergency lighting- system itself. The functiooaliiy, or lack thereof, may be recorded by any means. Per safety codes, emergency lighting systems .should be tested ort.ce a month and every year. The method described herein may be an economical and fast method of performing these required tests.

An embodiment of the invention is shown, in PIG. 9. A. snap-on emergency exi lighting ^' fixture 90 may comprise the following; elongate semi-rigid flat base 92 extending ^' between a first end 94 and a second end M, having a substantially rectangular shape, a right edge 98, a left edge 108, a top plane 1 2, and a bottom plane (not shown). · The fixture 90 further comprises at least one right top catch 166 extending along a. portion of the right edge .98. Catch. 166 preferably includes two planar members, a first vertical planar member 105 substantially perpendicular to the top plane 162. Catch first vertical planar member preferably sets the widest edge f the fixtures. Catch 106 may als employ a second horizontal planar member 10? gerneraliy parallel to top plane 162. Catch second horizontal member 107 is provided to maintain the position of the fixture along the T-grid both against gravity, as well as to provide three-sided coupling with the T-grid- via. a) flat base 92, b catch vertical member 165, and c) catch horizontal member ^" 167 along the top. Catches (e.g. top right, top left, bottom right, and bottom, left), as described herein, refer to similar structure including vertical and horizontal members to cover the side edge and bottom of a T-grid or a translucent lens panel 116. Preferably, the vertical and horizontal members of the catches meet one another at a ninety degree angle, or are otherwise arranged to match the contours of a T-grid or translucent lens panel I M,

The fixture 96 further comprises at least one left to catch 1.08 extending along a portion of the left edge 160. Catch 108 preferably includes two planar members, a first vertical planar member 111 substantially perpendicular to the top plane 102. Catch 1.08 may also employ a second horizontal planar member 169 genieraily parallel to to plane 162. The fixture 96 further comprises at least one right bottom catch 110 extending along a portion of the right edge .98 and substantially perpendicular to the bottom plane (not shown), and at least one left bottom catch 112 extending alon a portion of the left edge 109 and substantially perpendicular to the bottom plane (not shown). An LED light 114 may be coupled to the bottom: plane (not shown). A. translucent lens panel 16 adapted to diffuse light from an LED light 114 should be mounted to the at least one right bottom catch 118 and at least one left bottom catch I 12.

The various top, bottom, right, and left, catches 106, J.88, 11% and 112, may or ma not substantially extend the length of the fixture 90. If any one of the top, bottom, right, and left catches 196, 08, 119, and 112 do not substantially extend for the length of the fixture 99, multiple top, bottom, right, and/or left catches 106, 108, 1.19, and 112 may be present It may be easier to ins-tall and manufacture a fixture 99 where the top, bottom, right, and left catches 106, 1-98» 110, and 112 substantially ^' extend for the length of the fixture 90. However, multiple top, bottom, right, and left catches 104, 198, 110, and 112 may be lighter and cheaper to manufacture.

The variolic vertical members of the top, bottom, right, and left catches 196, 198, 11 , and 112, may or ma not be substantially perpendicular to the top plane 102 or the bottom plane 1(14. Different angles may he used depending on the flexibility of the flat base 92, the thickness of the T-grid, or other factors. Any angle that is used should facilitate the attachment of the fixture 90 to a T-grid.

The embodiment shown in FIG. 9 is designed to snap onto a TnOrid (also known as a T-bar), as is known in the art for standard stnieture in drop ceilings, through the. at least one right top eatch 106 and at least one left top eatch 198. The fixture 90 may also slide onto a T-Grsd instead of snapping onto one. Flanges on standard T-Orids may support acoustic tiles, air conditioning vents, and the l ke. he snap-on emergency exit lighting fixture 99 may also support acoustic tiles, T-Grids, and this embodiment of the present invention., typically come in two-foot or four-foot segments. The fixture 90 and to plane 102 is designed to be slightly wider than a standard T-Grid so 'that it can 'be attached to aft already installed T-grid with ease.

The flat base 92 is semi-rigid to allo the at least one top right and left catches 106 and 108 to snap onto a ^" T-Grid. Some -flexibility is required nvfhe flat base 92 to allow this 'installation method. However, the flat base 92 cannot be entirely -flexible or t may not stay attached to a T-Orid tor any appreciable length of time or he able to support the actual emergency exit light 114.

The translucent lens panel 116 may he substantially the same size and length as the Oat base 92, or it may be smaller.

The fist base 92 -and various top, bottom, right, and left catches 106, 108, 110, and 112 may be formed from a variety and ^' combination of materials, such as metals, plastics, and/or wood. The flat base 92 and various top, bottom, right, and left catches 106, 1.08, 110, and 112 may be formed together as one extrusion, or they may be formed a separate pieces and coupled together through fasteners, glue, welding, and/or any other way.

The flat base 92 and various top, bottom, right, and left catches J , 108, 11.0, and 112 may be adapted to couple with existing T-Grids or a different ceiling assembly. They may couple through- the use of- .fasteners,, glue, welding, and/or magnets. It Is intended that the emergenc exit lighting fixhire be relatively easy to manufacture and install.

One or more antennae; may be -mounted to the snap-o emergency exit lighting fixture 90 in order to receive wireless, Wi-Fi. RFl ^' D, and/or Bluetooth signals.

There .may be an. end-ca cover on either or both of the first end 94 and second end 96. This end-cap cover may protect the LED iight(s) 1.14 and the fixture 90 in general -from moisture, dust, dirt, or other coniamiuents. The end-cap cover(s} may be attached through the use of fasteners, glue, welding, and/or magnets. The end-cap eover(s) may he attached during the manufacture of the ^' f&ture 9 or afterwards. The end-cap cover(s) may be attached daring die insia!lationg ef ^' the fixture 90 or afterwards.

[ 100] Referring no to FIG. 10, a frontal view o the possible embodiment in FiO. ^' of the present- invention is- shown att ched to a T-Gfid 118. A snap-on emergency exit lighting fixture 90 may comprise the following: an elongate semi-rigid flat base 92 extending between a first end 94 and a second end 96, having a substantially rectangular shape, a right edge 98, a left edge 106, a top plane 182, and a bottom plane 104, The fixture 90 further comprises at least one fight top catch 1.06 extending along a portion of the right: edge 98 with a substantially vertical mereber 10 and a substantially horizontal member 107, The fixture 9 1 further comprises at least one left top catch 108 extending along a portion of the left edge 100 with a substantially vertical member H i and a and substantially horizontal member 1 ⁽ 89. The fixture 90 further comprises at least one right bottom catch 110 extending along a portion of the right edge 98 with substantially vertical and horizontal members, and at least one left bottom catch 11,2 extending along a portion of the left edge 1.00 with substantially vertical and horizontal members. An LED light J.14 may be coupled to the bottom plane 1.04. A translucent lens pane! 116 adapted to diffuse light from an LED light. 114 should be mounted to the at least one right. ^' bottom- catch 110 and at least one left bottom catch 112. An. on/off test button switch may be placed on the translucent lens panel 1.16 or elsewhere on the -fixture 90.

[ 101] The translucent lens panel 1.1.6 ay be clear, frosty, red, and/or green. The translucent lens panel 116 may also have at least one area cut out in the shape of the word: ΕΧΠ ^" . A fed or green translucent lens panel may he placed within the cut out portion. The translucent lens panel. 11.6 may als have at least one area cut out in the shape of an arrow, to indicate emergency e i direction. A red or green, translucent tens panel may he placed within the cut out portion. The translucent lens panel 116 may be easily removable in order to repair and

2.1 maintain the fixture, and to allow the at least one LED .Ugh* 114 to be replaced if .necessary. The translucent lens panel 116 may be glass and/or plastic.

[.102] At least one LED light 114 may be mounted to the ^' bottom ^' plane 164 of the fiat base 92 through glue, fasteners, welding, or any other means. The LED !ighifs) 114 may be. red, green, yellow or white in. color (i.e. they may produce light with a red, green, yellow, or white tint). The LED hght(s) 114 should produce enough fight to satisfy applicable emergency lighting codes and regulations, in its Life Safety Code, section 7.9, the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) slates that emergency lighting must be arranged to provide initial illumination of ne less than an average of one foot-candle and a minimum at any point of 0.1 -foot-candle measured along the path of egress at floor level, These levels can decline to a minimum of 0,6 hot-eandle average and 0.06-foot-candle at any oner point at the end of 1 .5-hours. One foot-candle is equivalent to 10.-764 lumens per square meter or one lumen per square foot,

[ 103] The LED iig is) 114 may be mounted to the bottom plane 1 4 of the flat base 92 and within a recessed channel The recessed channel may be useful in directing the light produced by the LED Sightis) 114 downward and preventing ligh diffusion t the sides or upward. The recessed channel may also ease manufacture and installation of the emergency exit lighting •fi ure,

(104 J An on/off test button switch may be located along the translucent lens panel 1.16 so that the switch is easily accessible and easily activated to test the emergency exit lighting. Section 7.9.3 of the- NFPA's Life Safety Code typically requires a monthly activation test, where the lights remain illuminated for a minimum of 30-seconds, and an annual test where the lights are activated for l .S-hours to- siunrtate a long-term emergency event. An alternative embodiment may have the on/off test button switch activated remotely through an of, or combination of wired control, wireless, Wi-Fi, RFID (radio frequency identification signal).

11 cellular, ami/or Bluetooth commands. A cellular application to activate an on/off test button switch may be used. Such, an application may save time and allow m intereste party, such as a fire marshal, the ability to remotely test multiple emergency exit lighting; fixtures at one time, and easily record, the results of an such testing.

Referring now to FIG. 11 , a frontal view of the possible embodiment in FIG. 9 of the present invention is shown with the addition of a electrical conduit or whip .120. The fixture 90. further -comprises at least one right top catch 1.06 extending along a portion of the right edge 98 with a substantially vertical member 105 and a substantially horizontal member 107. The fixture 90 former comprises at. least one left top catch 1.08 extending along a portion of the left edge 188 with a substantially vertical member 111 and a and substantially horizontal member 109. The fi ture 90 further comprises at least one right bottom catch ί 10 extending along a portion of the right, edge 98 with substantiall vertical member 113 and substantially horizontal member 115, and at least one left bottom catch 112 -extending along a portion of the left edge 100 with substantiall vertical member 117 and substantially horizontal member U.9. The LED i.igfit(s) 11.4 should be ^' electronically coupled (i.e. wired) to an LED driver. The LED lighi(s) J 14 may be electronically coupled through a conduit or whip 120 that may snake through the empty area 122 between the LED iight(s) 114 and the translucent lens panel 116,. The conduit or whip 120 may proceed out of the fixture 90 through either the first end 94 or the second end (nut shown). An LED driver should be electronically coupled to a ftrst, continuous power source, backup battery containing enough power to power the LED lighi(s) 11.4 for at least 1.5-hours, and an on/off test button switch. The LED driver will control the functions of the LED iig.bt{s) 1.14 and maybe modified a necessary. The LED driver ma be located at some distance i om the LED lig!it(s}, for example, in a typical junction box, and may be electronically coupled to the LED Sightfs) through a conduit or ^• whip 129. The LED driver may also be electronically coupled to one or .more antennae m order to receive wireless, Wi-Fi. RFID _: and/or Bluetooth signals.

1 106] Referring now to FIG. 1-2, an isometric view of the possible embodiment in FIG. ^' 9 f the present invention is shown with the addition of a electrical conduit or whip 120 and attached to a T-grid 18. The electrical conduit or whip 120 ma protrude out of the fixture 90 through the first end 9 and/or the second end. Once the conduit or whip 120 is outside the confines of the fixture 99, it may be electronically coupled to an LED driver and/or power supply, in order for the fixture 90 to function properly as an emergency exit light

107 Referring no to FIG. 13, a partial isometric view of the possible embodiment in FIG. 9 of the present invention is shown with the addition of a electrical conduit or whip 120 and attached to a T-grid 118. A wire-path aperture 124 may b drilled, in a T-grid so the electrical conduit or whip 120 may be placed through the aperture 124 instead of protruding out. of the ixture 90 as in. FIG. 12, The wire-path aperture 124 may be drilled or it ma already exist on the T-grid (Striding the eieeirical conduit or whip 120 through at least one aperture 124 in a T-grid may provide for easier installation, and may he more aesthetically pleasing. In addition, this configuration may be safer in that there would be no exposed wires.

[ 108] Referring now to FIG, 14, an exemplary flowchart detailing a possible method of installing a snap-on emergency lighting system in a building is shown. An embodiment of the method may be a useT drilling 309 at least one wire-path aperture through an existing T-grid in a ceiling, attaching 318 a snap-on emergency lighting fixture (with L.EDs or other lights) through at least one catc to the T-grid, guiding 320 at least one conduit or whip through the at least one wire-path aperture, and 330 electronically coupling the lighting fixture to a power supply and LED driver (if an LED light is used).

[109] Drilling 300 at least one wire-path through an existing T-grid befo e, attaching a snap-on emergency lighting -fixture may be economical and easier than other methods. Utilizing an existing hole instead of drilling a new wire-path may be feasible m some instances tad may further simplify the installation of the present invention.

A user may attach 3-10 a .snap-οή emer ency LED lighting fixture b bending the fixture so that one or more catches on the fixture: can hook .onto an existing T-grid, Alternatively, a user may aitah 310 the lighting fixture by removing the T-grid from the ceiling and. then sliding the fixture onto the T-grid, coupling the appropriate wires, and then replacing the T-grid into the ceiling.