US20020011380A1 - Projection screen and projection screen system - Google Patents
Projection screen and projection screen system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020011380A1 US20020011380A1 US09/451,572 US45157299A US2002011380A1 US 20020011380 A1 US20020011380 A1 US 20020011380A1 US 45157299 A US45157299 A US 45157299A US 2002011380 A1 US2002011380 A1 US 2002011380A1
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- retainer
- screen
- wall
- projection screen
- acoustical
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Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03B—APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS FOR TAKING PHOTOGRAPHS OR FOR PROJECTING OR VIEWING THEM; APPARATUS OR ARRANGEMENTS EMPLOYING ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ACCESSORIES THEREFOR
- G03B21/00—Projectors or projection-type viewers; Accessories therefor
- G03B21/54—Accessories
- G03B21/56—Projection screens
Definitions
- the present invention relates generally to a projection screen system for a room. More particularly, a projection screen system is disclosed which provides for the adjustment of room acoustics.
- a room or the like may be acoustically treated, or “tuned,” by selectively placing patterns of acoustical material on the interior walls. Tuning enhances or otherwise controls the sound quality within the room, such as the sound quality of a home theatre system.
- Arrangements of acoustical treatment generally include segments of acoustical material mounted on the walls, ceilings, or other surfaces of a room.
- the acoustical material may, for example, selectively diffuse, reflect, or absorb sound.
- the fabric may be selected to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the room, such as by covering the acoustical material with fabrics of differing patterns and colors. In addition, the fabric keeps dirt and dust from collecting in the acoustical material.
- a conventional theater includes a projection screen spaced from a wall, with insulation attached to a board clipped to the wall behind the projection screen. Batt insulation has been mounted behind a projection screen in this manner. The insulation is mounted on the wall in order to reduce the buildup of sound energy in the theater.
- Another conventional projection screen system has a screen which is snap-stretched within a frame.
- the periphery of the screen includes grommets which engage hooks or snaps on the frame, thereby supporting the screen on the frame.
- Canvas is a conventional material for the screen.
- the acoustical absorption of the screen is altered by perforating the screen.
- perforated screens are undesirable because they have reduced light reflectivity, and a corresponding poorer video image quality.
- the conventional projection screen system requires a rigid frame and is relatively expensive.
- U.S. Pat. No. 2,187,904 to Hurley shows a projection screen with a sound-transmitting screen area.
- Hurley's screen includes a light-reflecting area 12 surrounded by a light-absorbent mask 14 .
- the light-absorbent mask 14 has perforations which allow for the transmission of sound from behind the screen. The perforations do not provide tunability for the room. Further, the inclusion of the perforated light-absorbent mask 14 around the perimeter of the light-reflecting part 12 increases the size of the screen.
- U.S. Pat. No. 2,710,335 to Wong shows a light diffusing and sound absorbent unit. Wong discloses a panel 21 which may be used to either reflect or absorb sound, and which selectively absorbs light.
- the conventional projection arrangements do not disclose a projection screen which can be used to acoustically tune a room
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,923,002 to McGrath et al. discloses acoustical material in the form of paneling, and methods of installing the paneling.
- the acoustical paneling is mounted on wall surfaces to change room acoustics, and is covered by fabric material 100 .
- the fabric material 100 is held within fabric retainers 96 , as shown in FIG. 10 of McGrath et al.
- a projection screen system has not been integrated into a system of acoustic treatment.
- the projection screen and projection screen system disclosed in this application overcome the above disadvantages and provide further advantages not contemplated by conventional devices.
- the present invention is therefore directed, in part, to a projection screen which is supportable at its edges within a system of retainer members. These retainer members are also suitable for supporting fabric for covering acoustical material disposed on a wall.
- the projection screen of the present invention can therefore be incorporated into a projection screen system which covers an entire wall, or a part of a wall.
- the invention in part, also provides a projection screen having screen material supported by a system of retainer members, into which the peripheral edges of the screen material are tucked. Acoustical material can be placed behind the projection screen in order to render the area covered by the screen tunable.
- the screen is flexible and is tautly mounted in the system of retainer members.
- the screen may be elastic in order to facilitate a smooth appearance once the screen is installed.
- the screen material In addition to placing acoustical material behind the screen material to alter the acoustic characteristics of the room, the screen material itself can have variable acoustic properties. The screen material and the acoustical material are then selected to work in unison, so that specific frequency bands of sound are absorbed by each material.
- All or a part of the remainder of the wall may be treated by acoustical material disposed outside the perimeter of the system of retainer members for the projection screen.
- This acoustical material is bordered by a second system of retainer members.
- the second system of retainer members supports the outermost edges of covering fabric which covers the acoustical material mounted on the wall around the projection screen. The interior edges of the covering fabric are tucked into the system of retainer members which supports the exterior edges of the screen material.
- a wall including a projecting screen can be treated with acoustical material, forming a projection screen system for the wall.
- the entire wall can therefore be made tunable by the selection of specific acoustical materials for the projection screen and for the surrounding wall treatment, and by the selection of the screen material.
- the projection screen and the surrounding wall treatment present a flush surface, and form a smooth, integrated, projection screen system.
- FIG. 1 is a front view of a projection screen system according to the present invention
- FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken in the plane of line II-II in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the comer of the first retainer system
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a retainer according to the present invention.
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative retainer according to the present invention.
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of another retainer according to the present invention.
- FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
- FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of another type of acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view of yet another type of acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
- FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of a projection screen system according to the present invention.
- Projection screen system 10 includes a projection screen 12 including a first retainer system 14 , which serves as a frame for the projection screen 12 .
- the remainder of the wall is covered by wall treatment 16 , which renders the entire wall tunable.
- the first retainer system 14 is not visible due to the presence of screen material 24 and covering fabric 26 .
- edges of the screen material 24 and the covering fabric 26 have both been installed in the first retainer system 14 , the perimeter of the projection screen 12 is visible only as a hairline joint 15 .
- the wall treatment 16 is disposed around the perimeter of the projection screen 12 .
- the covering fabric 26 of the wall treatment 16 is supported at its outer edges by a second retainer system 18 .
- the first retainer system 14 and the second retainer system 18 are comprised of elongated retainer members having retaining portions, which will be discussed with reference to FIGS. 2 and 4- 6 .
- FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken in the plane of line II-II in FIG. 1.
- Reference numeral 22 indicates a cross-section of a retainer member constituting a part of the first retainer system 14 .
- the retainer member 22 supports exterior edges of the screen material 24 , and interior edges of the covering fabric 26 , within a retaining portion 30 .
- a retainer groove 32 allows access to the interior of the retainer 22 , through which the respective edges of the screen material 24 and the covering fabric 26 are tucked into a pocket 33 located near the base of the retainer member 22 .
- Acoustical material is disposed on either side of the retainer member 22 and secured to a wall 28 .
- the acoustical material is shown as acoustical paneling 34 located behind the screen material 24 , and acoustical paneling 38 located behind the covering fabric 26 . It is to be understood that any acoustical material suitable for acoustically treating a wall is appropriate for use in the projection screen 12 and in the wall treatment 16 .
- the projection screen 12 includes the acoustical paneling 34 , the screen material 24 , and the first retainer system 14 , which is formed by a series of retainer members 22 .
- the acoustical paneling 34 may be a single paneling element, or may include multiple paneling elements.
- an optically reflective mat 36 is laminated onto a surface of the acoustical paneling 34 .
- the reflective mat 36 is preferably made from a glass of a highly reflective color, such as white.
- the acoustical paneling 38 of the wall treatment 16 may also include a reflective mat 36 , but it is not required.
- paneling of neutral color behind covering fabric 26 it is preferable to use paneling of neutral color behind covering fabric 26 , to prevent any coloring from showing through the covering fabric 26 , which is known as “telegraphing” of color.
- Acoustical paneling 34 and 38 may be reversible in order to obtain differing acoustic tuning properties.
- the projection screen 12 integrated with wall treatment 16 allows an entire wall surface to be acoustically treated with a smooth, continuous projection screen system 10 .
- the airflow resistance of acoustical paneling 34 and 38 can be varied in order to reduce acoustic modal pressure peaks and nulls forming along the wall 28 .
- the airflow resistance of the acoustical paneling is varied by selecting panels of varying depth, layer types, and composition. Airflow resistance is varied depending upon the frequencies to be addressed. Preferred acoustical paneling will be discussed with reference to FIGS. 7 - 9 of this application.
- the acoustical properties of the screen material 24 can also be varied.
- the screen material 24 should be made of a flexible material which can withstand the installation process into the first retainer system 14 . Examples of such materials include polyester fiber material, elastic membranes, composite woven materials, rubbers, vinyls, and mixtures of synthetic rubbers. Other suitable materials may be heat shrinking polymer films which may be installed and then exposed to a heat source to shrink the screen to form a taut surface.
- the screen material 24 must either be optically reflective, or must have a surface which is treatable such that it can be rendered optically reflective. Examples of treatments for the surface of screen material 24 include a coating of small reflective glass beads, or reflective paint, or a combination thereof.
- the treatment which affects the reflectivity of the screen material 24 may also affect the acoustic absorption characteristics of the screen material 24 .
- applying different thicknesses and types of reflective paint to the surface of the screen material 24 can alter the airflow resistance of the screen material 24 .
- the screen material 24 becomes more of a low frequency diaphragmatic absorber.
- the airflow resistance of the screen material 24 can also be adjusted without regard to the optical reflectivity properties of the screen material 24 .
- variable strips of airflow restrictive coatings could be applied to the screen material 24 . Any coating applied to the screen material 24 must be compatible with the flexibility of the screen material 24 during installation, and must not crack or flake off of the screen material 24 .
- the airflow resistance of the screen material may not only be altered, but it may be completely restricted, whereby the screen becomes a diaphragmatic absorber.
- the acoustical paneling 34 and the screen material 24 are selected to act in unison in tuning the room.
- the screen material 24 can be chosen to absorb a narrow or a wide bandwidth of frequencies which may be determined as problematic within the room.
- the acoustical paneling 34 is in turn selected which absorbs modal pressure peaks within a specified bandwidth influenced by the screen material 24 .
- the wall treatment 16 which includes acoustical paneling 38 and covering fabric 26 , is similarly constructed.
- Covering fabric 26 may be acoustically transparent, may include a degree of acoustic absorption prefabricated into the covering fabric 26 , or may be acoustically treated during installation.
- the acoustical paneling 38 can be varied in depth and cross-section. Preferred acoustical paneling will be discussed with reference to FIGS. 7 - 9 .
- Acoustical paneling 34 and 38 is disposed in a pattern on wall 28 .
- First and second retainer systems 14 and 18 are also mounted in a desired pattern on the wall 28 .
- a pattern of screen material 24 approximating the size of the projection screen 12 is placed over the first retainer system 14 .
- the edges of the screen material 24 are then tucked into the first retainer system 14 in the retaining portions 30 . This is known as the “preliminary tuck,” and any excess screen material protruding from the retainer system is cut off.
- excess screen material 24 is tucked into the retaining portions 30 of first retainer system 14 . This is known as the “final tuck,” during which the screen is pulled taut. This can be done with a bladed tool resembling a spatula having a dull bladed edge.
- the covering fabric 26 is similarly installed between the first retainer system 14 and the second retainer system 18 . If the retainer 22 shown in FIG. 2 is used as the cross-section for the first retainer system 14 , the covering fabric and the screen material 24 must both be tucked into a single retaining portion 30 of the retainer 22 .
- the screen material 24 may be treated with a coating of optically reflective material, with a coating of material affecting the airflow resistance of the screen material, or both.
- the first retainer system 14 have a rectangular shape with an essentially closed perimeter, so that the screen material 24 is supported along most of its periphery.
- retainer members of the first retainer system 14 can be arranged in any pattern, such as a square, polygon, etc., which is suitable for supporting screen material 24 .
- the first retainer system 14 need not have an essentially closed perimeter, and gaps can be included in the first retainer system 14 .
- One example of a first retainer system 14 having a partially open perimeter could include two opposed rows of retainer members for supporting opposed edges of screen material 24 .
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the area indicated by reference numeral 20 in FIG. 1.
- FIG. 3 illustrates how two retainer members are joined at a comer of the first retainer system 14 .
- a first retainer member 44 and a second retainer member 46 are given 45° miter cuts at the joint site.
- a small gap 48 can be left between the first and second retainer members.
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative retainer member according to the present invention.
- the retainer 400 is shown as an elongated member having a base wall 402 .
- Base wall 402 has an exterior surface which may be attached to a support wall or structure.
- a first wall 404 extends from the base wall 402 , and an end portion 406 of the first wall 404 forms a part of a retaining portion 401 of the retainer 400
- An interior wall 416 extends from the base wall 402 and terminates in a forked end.
- One branch of the fork is a retaining arm 410 , which forms part of the retaining portion 401 . Therefore, retaining portion 401 includes the end portion 406 of the first wall 404 and the opposed retaining arm 410 .
- a retainer groove 412 is defined by the end portion 406 and the retaining arm 410 . Once fabric or screen is inserted through the retainer groove 412 , it is gathered and retained within the storage pocket 414 .
- the end portion 406 and the retaining arm 410 are provided with opposed retaining surfaces 460 and 462 , respectively.
- the retaining surfaces 460 , 462 can be formed by, for example, rows or sets of teeth.
- Locking portion 418 forms the second branch of the forked end of the interior wall 416 .
- the locking portion 418 extends from the forked end of the interior wall 416 , and includes a locking lip 422 which extends from a side of the locking portion 418 .
- a second wall 424 extends from the base wall 402 and is spaced away from the first wall 404 .
- a chase 426 is defined between the interior wall 416 and the second wall 424 .
- the second wall 424 terminates in the locking portion 428 , which includes a locking lip 432 extending from a side of the locking portion 428 .
- the space between locking portions 418 and 428 defines an opening to the chase 426 through which wire, cabling, or any other communication, speaker, and/or power lines can be placed in the chase 426 .
- the interior of retainer 400 includes a box rib 450 which extends laterally from the interior wall 416 to the first wall 404 , thus defining a box section 452 .
- one or more ports 490 may be formed in the first wall 404 and in the interior wall 416 .
- the ports 490 may be formed as needed during installation, or the retainer 400 may be manufactured so as to already include one or more ports 490 in the first wall 404 and/or the interior wall 416 .
- the primary access to the chase 426 is provided by its open side located between the locking portions 418 and 428 .
- the removable face cover 440 may be engaged with the locking portions 418 , 428 .
- the removable face cover 440 is an elongated generally flat element which can engaged with respective locking portions 418 , 428 to close the open side of the chase 426 .
- Locking lips 422 and 432 both preferably, but not necessarily, have chamfered surfaces 429 , 439 .
- the open side of the chase 426 also facilitates mounting of the retainer 400 onto a support surface, such as an underlying wall.
- a screw, a nail, or other fastener can be positioned through the opening of the chase 426 and driven through the base wall 402 .
- a stapler may also be positioned through the opening of chase 426 so that the retainer 400 can be stapled to a support surface.
- the retainer 400 can be secured to a support surface by an adhesive, such as “LIQUID NAILS” adhesive.
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative retainer embodiment according to the present invention.
- the retainer 500 has two-way locking portions 521 , 531 .
- Two-way locking portions 521 , 531 allow for engagement with a face cover with locking projections which extend into the chase 526 .
- Decorative face cover 880 having locking projections 881 is shown engaged with two-way locking portions 521 , 531 .
- Retainer 500 also includes fastener locators 570 .
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative retainer embodiment according to the present invention.
- the retainer 600 has two separate retaining portions 601 , each having a retainer groove 612 .
- the retainer embodiments disclosed in this application can made from, for example, molded or extruded (continuously molded) plastic.
- One suitable method of fabrication is extrusion of ABS or vinyl.
- Another suitable method is molding of ABS or vinyl.
- Any thermoplastic material which can be formed in the required configurations is considered appropriate for fabricating the embodiments in this application.
- fiber-reinforced plastics (frp) or glass reinforced plastics (grp). Fire resistant materials may also be used to protect wiring mounted within the chase in the event of fire.
- the retainers may be manufactured in selected colors for aesthetic reasons. It is expressly stated here that these methods are not the only methods by which the retainer assembly can be made, nor are the stated materials the only materials from which the retainer assembly can be made.
- FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
- Paneling 70 has a first surface 72 that is acoustically absorptive.
- the acoustically absorptive material can be any soft porous surface which absorbs sound energy.
- Paneling 70 also includes a rigid backing board 76 and a fibrous material 78 laminated thereto.
- the backing board 76 can be made from gypsum wall board, which can be installed using commercially available adhesive and/or mechanical fasteners.
- a preferred acoustical paneling includes fibrous material 78 having a density of at least 3 pounds per cubic foot.
- Exemplary board of this type is manufactured by Owens Coming as an acoustical board product (700 SERIES BOARD).
- Other suitable materials for the fibrous material 78 include minimal and light duty fiberglass.
- a fiberglass mat 75 is optionally laminated to the outer surface of the fibrous material 78 .
- FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of another type of acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
- Paneling 80 has a rigid backing board 82 made from a commercially available open-cell melamine foam.
- the glass mat 86 is laminated over the foam 84 .
- FIG. 9 is yet another type acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
- Paneling 90 has a rigid backing board 92 sandwiched between fibrous materials 94 .
- a glass mat 96 is laminated onto the fibrous material 94 .
- the rigid backing board 92 may advantageously be formed from any material which renders the paneling 90 diaphragmatic.
- the acoustical paneling discussed with reference to FIGS. 7 - 9 are intended as exemplary of acoustical materials suitable for use in the projection screen system 10 according to the present invention. However, a wide variety of acoustical paneling could be employed in this invention.
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Abstract
Description
- This application is related to commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/969,132, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,923,002, the complete contents of which are herein incorporated by reference. This application is also related to commonly owned U.S. Patent Application having Ser. No. 09/429,602, filed Oct. 28, 1999, entitled “Fabric Retainer for Acoustic Structure and Methods of Installation,” the complete contents of which are herein incorporated by reference.
- The present invention relates generally to a projection screen system for a room. More particularly, a projection screen system is disclosed which provides for the adjustment of room acoustics.
- Acoustical treatment of enclosed spaces has long been recognized as desirable. It is generally known that a room or the like may be acoustically treated, or “tuned,” by selectively placing patterns of acoustical material on the interior walls. Tuning enhances or otherwise controls the sound quality within the room, such as the sound quality of a home theatre system.
- Arrangements of acoustical treatment generally include segments of acoustical material mounted on the walls, ceilings, or other surfaces of a room. The acoustical material may, for example, selectively diffuse, reflect, or absorb sound. After the acoustical material is mounted on the wall, it is covered by a fabric. The fabric may be selected to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the room, such as by covering the acoustical material with fabrics of differing patterns and colors. In addition, the fabric keeps dirt and dust from collecting in the acoustical material.
- Controlling room acoustics is desirable where sound quality is important, such as in a movie theater. A conventional theater includes a projection screen spaced from a wall, with insulation attached to a board clipped to the wall behind the projection screen. Batt insulation has been mounted behind a projection screen in this manner. The insulation is mounted on the wall in order to reduce the buildup of sound energy in the theater.
- Another conventional projection screen system has a screen which is snap-stretched within a frame. The periphery of the screen includes grommets which engage hooks or snaps on the frame, thereby supporting the screen on the frame. Canvas is a conventional material for the screen. The acoustical absorption of the screen is altered by perforating the screen. However, perforated screens are undesirable because they have reduced light reflectivity, and a corresponding poorer video image quality. In addition, the conventional projection screen system requires a rigid frame and is relatively expensive.
- U.S. Pat. No. 2,187,904 to Hurley shows a projection screen with a sound-transmitting screen area. Hurley's screen includes a light-reflecting
area 12 surrounded by a light-absorbent mask 14. The light-absorbent mask 14 has perforations which allow for the transmission of sound from behind the screen. The perforations do not provide tunability for the room. Further, the inclusion of the perforated light-absorbent mask 14 around the perimeter of the light-reflectingpart 12 increases the size of the screen. - U.S. Pat. No. 2,710,335 to Wong shows a light diffusing and sound absorbent unit. Wong discloses a panel21 which may be used to either reflect or absorb sound, and which selectively absorbs light.
- The conventional projection arrangements do not disclose a projection screen which can be used to acoustically tune a room
- U.S. Pat. No. 5,923,002 to McGrath et al. discloses acoustical material in the form of paneling, and methods of installing the paneling. The acoustical paneling is mounted on wall surfaces to change room acoustics, and is covered by fabric material100. The fabric material 100 is held within
fabric retainers 96, as shown in FIG. 10 of McGrath et al. - A projection screen system has not been integrated into a system of acoustic treatment.
- Therefore, a projection screen system having tunability, which can be integrated into an acoustical treatment for a wall, is desirable.
- The projection screen and projection screen system disclosed in this application overcome the above disadvantages and provide further advantages not contemplated by conventional devices. The present invention is therefore directed, in part, to a projection screen which is supportable at its edges within a system of retainer members. These retainer members are also suitable for supporting fabric for covering acoustical material disposed on a wall. The projection screen of the present invention can therefore be incorporated into a projection screen system which covers an entire wall, or a part of a wall.
- The invention, in part, also provides a projection screen having screen material supported by a system of retainer members, into which the peripheral edges of the screen material are tucked. Acoustical material can be placed behind the projection screen in order to render the area covered by the screen tunable. The screen is flexible and is tautly mounted in the system of retainer members. Optionally the screen may be elastic in order to facilitate a smooth appearance once the screen is installed.
- In addition to placing acoustical material behind the screen material to alter the acoustic characteristics of the room, the screen material itself can have variable acoustic properties. The screen material and the acoustical material are then selected to work in unison, so that specific frequency bands of sound are absorbed by each material.
- All or a part of the remainder of the wall may be treated by acoustical material disposed outside the perimeter of the system of retainer members for the projection screen. This acoustical material is bordered by a second system of retainer members. The second system of retainer members supports the outermost edges of covering fabric which covers the acoustical material mounted on the wall around the projection screen. The interior edges of the covering fabric are tucked into the system of retainer members which supports the exterior edges of the screen material.
- In this manner, all or a part of a wall including a projecting screen can be treated with acoustical material, forming a projection screen system for the wall. The entire wall can therefore be made tunable by the selection of specific acoustical materials for the projection screen and for the surrounding wall treatment, and by the selection of the screen material. The projection screen and the surrounding wall treatment present a flush surface, and form a smooth, integrated, projection screen system.
- Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given hereinafter. However, it should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the invention, are given by way of illustration only, since various changes and modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description.
- The present invention will become more fully understood from the detailed description given hereinbelow and the accompanying drawings which are given by way of illustration only, and thus are not limitative of the present invention, and wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a front view of a projection screen system according to the present invention;
- FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken in the plane of line II-II in FIG. 1;
- FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the comer of the first retainer system;
- FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a retainer according to the present invention;
- FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative retainer according to the present invention;
- FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of another retainer according to the present invention;
- FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of acoustical paneling according to the present invention;
- FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of another type of acoustical paneling according to the present invention; and
- FIG. 9 is a partial perspective view of yet another type of acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
- FIG. 1 is a front view of an embodiment of a projection screen system according to the present invention.
Projection screen system 10 includes aprojection screen 12 including afirst retainer system 14, which serves as a frame for theprojection screen 12. The remainder of the wall is covered bywall treatment 16, which renders the entire wall tunable. In FIG. 1, thefirst retainer system 14 is not visible due to the presence ofscreen material 24 and coveringfabric 26. When edges of thescreen material 24 and the coveringfabric 26 have both been installed in thefirst retainer system 14, the perimeter of theprojection screen 12 is visible only as a hairline joint 15. - As shown in FIG. 1, the
wall treatment 16 is disposed around the perimeter of theprojection screen 12. The coveringfabric 26 of thewall treatment 16 is supported at its outer edges by asecond retainer system 18. Thefirst retainer system 14 and thesecond retainer system 18 are comprised of elongated retainer members having retaining portions, which will be discussed with reference to FIGS. 2 and 4-6. - FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken in the plane of line II-II in FIG. 1.
Reference numeral 22 indicates a cross-section of a retainer member constituting a part of thefirst retainer system 14. Theretainer member 22 supports exterior edges of thescreen material 24, and interior edges of the coveringfabric 26, within a retainingportion 30. Aretainer groove 32 allows access to the interior of theretainer 22, through which the respective edges of thescreen material 24 and the coveringfabric 26 are tucked into apocket 33 located near the base of theretainer member 22. - Acoustical material is disposed on either side of the
retainer member 22 and secured to awall 28. In FIG. 2, the acoustical material is shown asacoustical paneling 34 located behind thescreen material 24, andacoustical paneling 38 located behind the coveringfabric 26. It is to be understood that any acoustical material suitable for acoustically treating a wall is appropriate for use in theprojection screen 12 and in thewall treatment 16. - The
projection screen 12 includes theacoustical paneling 34, thescreen material 24, and thefirst retainer system 14, which is formed by a series ofretainer members 22. Theacoustical paneling 34 may be a single paneling element, or may include multiple paneling elements. In order to enhance the optical reflectivity of theprojection screen 12, an opticallyreflective mat 36 is laminated onto a surface of theacoustical paneling 34. Thereflective mat 36 is preferably made from a glass of a highly reflective color, such as white. Theacoustical paneling 38 of thewall treatment 16 may also include areflective mat 36, but it is not required. It is preferable to use paneling of neutral color behind coveringfabric 26, to prevent any coloring from showing through the coveringfabric 26, which is known as “telegraphing” of color.Acoustical paneling - As can be seen with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the
projection screen 12 integrated withwall treatment 16 allows an entire wall surface to be acoustically treated with a smooth, continuousprojection screen system 10. The airflow resistance ofacoustical paneling wall 28. The airflow resistance of the acoustical paneling is varied by selecting panels of varying depth, layer types, and composition. Airflow resistance is varied depending upon the frequencies to be addressed. Preferred acoustical paneling will be discussed with reference to FIGS. 7-9 of this application. - In addition to varying the airflow resistance of
acoustical paneling screen material 24 can also be varied. Thescreen material 24 should be made of a flexible material which can withstand the installation process into thefirst retainer system 14. Examples of such materials include polyester fiber material, elastic membranes, composite woven materials, rubbers, vinyls, and mixtures of synthetic rubbers. Other suitable materials may be heat shrinking polymer films which may be installed and then exposed to a heat source to shrink the screen to form a taut surface. Thescreen material 24 must either be optically reflective, or must have a surface which is treatable such that it can be rendered optically reflective. Examples of treatments for the surface ofscreen material 24 include a coating of small reflective glass beads, or reflective paint, or a combination thereof. - The treatment which affects the reflectivity of the
screen material 24 may also affect the acoustic absorption characteristics of thescreen material 24. For example, applying different thicknesses and types of reflective paint to the surface of thescreen material 24 can alter the airflow resistance of thescreen material 24. As the airflow is restricted, thescreen material 24 becomes more of a low frequency diaphragmatic absorber. The airflow resistance of thescreen material 24 can also be adjusted without regard to the optical reflectivity properties of thescreen material 24. For example, variable strips of airflow restrictive coatings could be applied to thescreen material 24. Any coating applied to thescreen material 24 must be compatible with the flexibility of thescreen material 24 during installation, and must not crack or flake off of thescreen material 24. The airflow resistance of the screen material may not only be altered, but it may be completely restricted, whereby the screen becomes a diaphragmatic absorber. - The
acoustical paneling 34 and thescreen material 24 are selected to act in unison in tuning the room. Specifically, thescreen material 24 can be chosen to absorb a narrow or a wide bandwidth of frequencies which may be determined as problematic within the room. Theacoustical paneling 34 is in turn selected which absorbs modal pressure peaks within a specified bandwidth influenced by thescreen material 24. - The
wall treatment 16, which includesacoustical paneling 38 and coveringfabric 26, is similarly constructed. Coveringfabric 26 may be acoustically transparent, may include a degree of acoustic absorption prefabricated into the coveringfabric 26, or may be acoustically treated during installation. Theacoustical paneling 38 can be varied in depth and cross-section. Preferred acoustical paneling will be discussed with reference to FIGS. 7-9. - The following is a description of the assembly process for the
projection screen system 10.Acoustical paneling wall 28. First andsecond retainer systems wall 28. A pattern ofscreen material 24 approximating the size of theprojection screen 12 is placed over thefirst retainer system 14. The edges of thescreen material 24 are then tucked into thefirst retainer system 14 in the retainingportions 30. This is known as the “preliminary tuck,” and any excess screen material protruding from the retainer system is cut off. Next,excess screen material 24 is tucked into the retainingportions 30 offirst retainer system 14. This is known as the “final tuck,” during which the screen is pulled taut. This can be done with a bladed tool resembling a spatula having a dull bladed edge. - The covering
fabric 26 is similarly installed between thefirst retainer system 14 and thesecond retainer system 18. If theretainer 22 shown in FIG. 2 is used as the cross-section for thefirst retainer system 14, the covering fabric and thescreen material 24 must both be tucked into asingle retaining portion 30 of theretainer 22. - The
screen material 24 may be treated with a coating of optically reflective material, with a coating of material affecting the airflow resistance of the screen material, or both. - It is preferable that the
first retainer system 14 have a rectangular shape with an essentially closed perimeter, so that thescreen material 24 is supported along most of its periphery. However, retainer members of thefirst retainer system 14 can be arranged in any pattern, such as a square, polygon, etc., which is suitable for supportingscreen material 24. Also, thefirst retainer system 14 need not have an essentially closed perimeter, and gaps can be included in thefirst retainer system 14. One example of afirst retainer system 14 having a partially open perimeter could include two opposed rows of retainer members for supporting opposed edges ofscreen material 24. - FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of the area indicated by
reference numeral 20 in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 illustrates how two retainer members are joined at a comer of thefirst retainer system 14. Afirst retainer member 44 and asecond retainer member 46 are given 45° miter cuts at the joint site. Asmall gap 48 can be left between the first and second retainer members. - FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an alternative retainer member according to the present invention. The
retainer 400 is shown as an elongated member having abase wall 402.Base wall 402 has an exterior surface which may be attached to a support wall or structure. Afirst wall 404 extends from thebase wall 402, and anend portion 406 of thefirst wall 404 forms a part of a retainingportion 401 of theretainer 400 - An
interior wall 416 extends from thebase wall 402 and terminates in a forked end. One branch of the fork is a retainingarm 410, which forms part of the retainingportion 401. Therefore, retainingportion 401 includes theend portion 406 of thefirst wall 404 and the opposed retainingarm 410. Aretainer groove 412 is defined by theend portion 406 and the retainingarm 410. Once fabric or screen is inserted through theretainer groove 412, it is gathered and retained within thestorage pocket 414. - The
end portion 406 and the retainingarm 410 are provided with opposed retaining surfaces 460 and 462, respectively. The retaining surfaces 460, 462 can be formed by, for example, rows or sets of teeth. - Locking
portion 418 forms the second branch of the forked end of theinterior wall 416. The lockingportion 418 extends from the forked end of theinterior wall 416, and includes a lockinglip 422 which extends from a side of the lockingportion 418. - A
second wall 424 extends from thebase wall 402 and is spaced away from thefirst wall 404. Achase 426 is defined between theinterior wall 416 and thesecond wall 424. Thesecond wall 424 terminates in the lockingportion 428, which includes a lockinglip 432 extending from a side of the lockingportion 428. The space between lockingportions chase 426 through which wire, cabling, or any other communication, speaker, and/or power lines can be placed in thechase 426. The interior ofretainer 400 includes abox rib 450 which extends laterally from theinterior wall 416 to thefirst wall 404, thus defining abox section 452. - In order to create a path between the exterior of the retainer and the
chase 426, one ormore ports 490 may be formed in thefirst wall 404 and in theinterior wall 416. Theports 490 may be formed as needed during installation, or theretainer 400 may be manufactured so as to already include one ormore ports 490 in thefirst wall 404 and/or theinterior wall 416. - The primary access to the
chase 426 is provided by its open side located between the lockingportions removable face cover 440 may be engaged with the lockingportions removable face cover 440 is an elongated generally flat element which can engaged withrespective locking portions chase 426. Lockinglips surfaces - The open side of the
chase 426 also facilitates mounting of theretainer 400 onto a support surface, such as an underlying wall. A screw, a nail, or other fastener can be positioned through the opening of thechase 426 and driven through thebase wall 402. A stapler may also be positioned through the opening ofchase 426 so that theretainer 400 can be stapled to a support surface. Alternatively, theretainer 400 can be secured to a support surface by an adhesive, such as “LIQUID NAILS” adhesive. - FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative retainer embodiment according to the present invention. The
retainer 500 has two-way locking portions way locking portions chase 526.Decorative face cover 880 having lockingprojections 881 is shown engaged with two-way locking portions Retainer 500 also includes fastener locators 570. - FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of an alternative retainer embodiment according to the present invention. The
retainer 600 has twoseparate retaining portions 601, each having aretainer groove 612. - The retainer embodiments disclosed in this application can made from, for example, molded or extruded (continuously molded) plastic. One suitable method of fabrication is extrusion of ABS or vinyl. Another suitable method is molding of ABS or vinyl. Any thermoplastic material which can be formed in the required configurations is considered appropriate for fabricating the embodiments in this application. Also appropriate are fiber-reinforced plastics (frp) or glass reinforced plastics (grp). Fire resistant materials may also be used to protect wiring mounted within the chase in the event of fire. Also, the retainers may be manufactured in selected colors for aesthetic reasons. It is expressly stated here that these methods are not the only methods by which the retainer assembly can be made, nor are the stated materials the only materials from which the retainer assembly can be made.
- The relative heights and depths of the retainer embodiments illustrated are intended as representative of desirable retainer dimensions. However, the manipulation of retainer dimensions is considered to be within the scope of this invention.
- FIG. 7 is a partial perspective view of acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
Paneling 70 has afirst surface 72 that is acoustically absorptive. The acoustically absorptive material can be any soft porous surface which absorbs sound energy.Paneling 70 also includes arigid backing board 76 and afibrous material 78 laminated thereto. Thebacking board 76 can be made from gypsum wall board, which can be installed using commercially available adhesive and/or mechanical fasteners. - A preferred acoustical paneling includes
fibrous material 78 having a density of at least 3 pounds per cubic foot. Exemplary board of this type is manufactured by Owens Coming as an acoustical board product (700 SERIES BOARD). Other suitable materials for thefibrous material 78 include minimal and light duty fiberglass. Afiberglass mat 75 is optionally laminated to the outer surface of thefibrous material 78. - FIG. 8 is a partial perspective view of another type of acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
Paneling 80 has arigid backing board 82 made from a commercially available open-cell melamine foam. Theglass mat 86 is laminated over thefoam 84. - FIG. 9 is yet another type acoustical paneling according to the present invention.
Paneling 90 has arigid backing board 92 sandwiched betweenfibrous materials 94. Aglass mat 96 is laminated onto thefibrous material 94. Therigid backing board 92 may advantageously be formed from any material which renders thepaneling 90 diaphragmatic. - The acoustical paneling discussed with reference to FIGS.7-9 are intended as exemplary of acoustical materials suitable for use in the
projection screen system 10 according to the present invention. However, a wide variety of acoustical paneling could be employed in this invention. - The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.
Claims (30)
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/451,572 US20020011380A1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 1999-11-30 | Projection screen and projection screen system |
AU19320/01A AU1932001A (en) | 1999-11-30 | 2000-11-29 | Projection screen |
PCT/US2000/032472 WO2001040862A1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 2000-11-29 | Projection screen |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US09/451,572 US20020011380A1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 1999-11-30 | Projection screen and projection screen system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20020011380A1 true US20020011380A1 (en) | 2002-01-31 |
Family
ID=23792768
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/451,572 Abandoned US20020011380A1 (en) | 1999-11-30 | 1999-11-30 | Projection screen and projection screen system |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20020011380A1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU1932001A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2001040862A1 (en) |
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070195406A1 (en) * | 2006-02-22 | 2007-08-23 | Wood Robert L | Screens, microstructure templates, and methods of forming the same |
US20100089692A1 (en) * | 2008-07-17 | 2010-04-15 | Stephen Dance | Sound Absorbing Device |
WO2013126493A1 (en) * | 2012-02-21 | 2013-08-29 | 360Brandvision, Inc. | Transparent sound dampening projection screen |
US8661366B2 (en) | 1998-12-18 | 2014-02-25 | Thomson Licensing | Building macro elements for production automation control |
CN105492196A (en) * | 2013-07-15 | 2016-04-13 | 阿姆斯特郎世界工业公司 | Acoustical structure |
US9664994B1 (en) * | 2016-05-20 | 2017-05-30 | Dustin Small | Curvilinear projection screen and acoustic system |
US10416549B1 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2019-09-17 | Dony Dawson | Dry glass erase projection board system and method of use |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN114089589B (en) * | 2020-08-24 | 2023-01-31 | 青岛海信激光显示股份有限公司 | Projection screen and laser projection system |
Family Cites Families (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3729109A (en) * | 1971-06-14 | 1973-04-24 | R Mccurdy | Assembly within a bracket for a projection screen |
US5140460A (en) * | 1990-11-07 | 1992-08-18 | Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. | Motion-picture screen |
US5923002A (en) * | 1997-11-12 | 1999-07-13 | Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc. | Acoustical room paneling and method of installation |
-
1999
- 1999-11-30 US US09/451,572 patent/US20020011380A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2000
- 2000-11-29 AU AU19320/01A patent/AU1932001A/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-11-29 WO PCT/US2000/032472 patent/WO2001040862A1/en active Application Filing
Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8661366B2 (en) | 1998-12-18 | 2014-02-25 | Thomson Licensing | Building macro elements for production automation control |
US20070195406A1 (en) * | 2006-02-22 | 2007-08-23 | Wood Robert L | Screens, microstructure templates, and methods of forming the same |
US20100089692A1 (en) * | 2008-07-17 | 2010-04-15 | Stephen Dance | Sound Absorbing Device |
US20110220435A1 (en) * | 2008-07-17 | 2011-09-15 | Stephen Dance | Sound Absorbing Device |
WO2013126493A1 (en) * | 2012-02-21 | 2013-08-29 | 360Brandvision, Inc. | Transparent sound dampening projection screen |
CN105492196A (en) * | 2013-07-15 | 2016-04-13 | 阿姆斯特郎世界工业公司 | Acoustical structure |
US20160159028A1 (en) * | 2013-07-15 | 2016-06-09 | Armstrong World Industries, Inc. | Acoustical structure |
US10131110B2 (en) * | 2013-07-15 | 2018-11-20 | Awi Licensing Llc | Acoustical structure |
US9664994B1 (en) * | 2016-05-20 | 2017-05-30 | Dustin Small | Curvilinear projection screen and acoustic system |
US10416549B1 (en) * | 2016-10-28 | 2019-09-17 | Dony Dawson | Dry glass erase projection board system and method of use |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2001040862A1 (en) | 2001-06-07 |
AU1932001A (en) | 2001-06-12 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: OWENS-CORNING FIBERGLAS TECHNOLOGY, INC., ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ALTER, HARRY A.;REEL/FRAME:010634/0279 Effective date: 20000207 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: OWENS-CORNING FIBERGLAS TECHNOLOGY, INC., ILLINOIS Free format text: CORRECTIVE ASSIGNMENT TO CORRECT PREVIOUSLY RECORDED DOCUMENT AT REEL 010634, FRAME 0279;ASSIGNOR:ALTER, HARRY A.;REEL/FRAME:011192/0738 Effective date: 20000207 |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |