Interior protection system for buildings

Abstract

A system and method for protecting a interior building space, including, a first barrier, a second barrier, and a first fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, the first hook and the second hook may be connected via the curved portion, and the first hook is secured to the first barrier and the second hook may be secured to the first barrier. The system may also include a second fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, the first hook and the second hook may be connected via the curved portion, and the first hook may be secured to the second barrier and the second hook may be secured to the second barrier. The system may also include a single unitary link where the first fastener and the second fastener may be secured to the link.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Not applicable.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.BACKGROUND1. The Field of the Present Disclosure

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to a system for protecting an interior building space, including: a barrier attached or positioned under a ceiling area and above an interior building space.2. Description of Related Art

[0004] In situations or circumstances where interior building spaces have a potential for debris to fall from the ceiling, such as during construction of a portion of the ceiling or if ongoing damage to the ceiling or above is occurring or has occurred, plastic or fabric barriers may be used to catch such debris and keep the space below the ceiling free from debris or other unwanted or unsafe materials or particles. Often times these plastic barrier may be manufactured in large rolls of material that can be rolled out and hung from or near the ceiling.

[0005] Due to the variable size of rooms or interior building spaces, multiple pieces of the plastic barrier may need to be used and must therefor be connected one-to-another, so that any material falling form the ceiling will be caught and retained by the plastic barrier. These multiple pieces of plastic barrier have conventionally been tied together or taped together, however, this can be time consuming, unreliable, and sometimes adds significant expense to the project. Once a user is done with the plastic barrier, it can be removed along with any debris that was captured and disposed of.

[0006] The features and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the present disclosure without undue experimentation. The features and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base, or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The features and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from a consideration of the subsequent detailed description presented in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0008] FIG. 1 is a zoomed in bottom view of an interior protection system of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a zoomed out perspective view of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0010] FIG. 3 is a top view of a first fastener of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0011] FIG. 4 is a side view of the first fastener of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0012] FIG. 5 is a top view of a second fastener of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0013] FIG. 6 is a side view of the second fastener of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0014] FIG. 7 is a top view of a link of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0015] FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the link of the interior protection system of FIG. 1; and

[0016] FIG. 9 is a top view of the assembled first fastener, second fastener, and link of the interior protection system of FIG. 1.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles in accordance with the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated herein, which would normally occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the disclosure claimed.

[0018] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0019] In describing and claiming the present disclosure, the following terminology will be used in accordance with the definitions set out below.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “comprising,”“including,”“containing,”“characterized by,” and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0021] The term “tip” as used herein, shall refer broadly to any portion of an object that includes a terminating end of said object. The term “tip” as used herein, shall also refer to any known definition of that term that is either consistent with or not inconsistent with the definition in the forgoing sentence.

[0022] The term “barrier” as used herein, shall refer broadly to any object or portion of an object that may at least partially shield an designated area or space. The term “barrier” shall also be broadly defined so as to cover objects that a rigid or flexible or semi-rigid or semi-flexible.

[0023] The term “hook” as used herein, shall refer broadly to any portion of an object that includes a generally J-shape, which may include a generally curved portion or may include one or multiple corners.

[0024] The phrase “fusible link” as used herein, shall refer broadly to a substantially unitary structure that may be formed using a fusible alloy which may melt under specific high temperatures, such as a fire in a building as a non-limiting example, causing the link to split into two pieces, or multiple pieces.

[0025] Referring now to FIGS. 1-9, the present disclosure includes a system and method for protecting interior spaces in building. The disclosed method and system may be used to protect an interior space 10 inside a building or enclosure, from debris or other unwanted or unsafe materials or particles that may fall from a ceiling area 12, or above, during a construction project or during ongoing damage to the ceiling area 12.

[0026] Plastic barriers, a first barrier 14 and a second barrier 16, may be made of flexible sheets of plastic, or any other desired material that can be used to catch falling particles and debris without tearing or failing. The barriers 14 and 16 may also be water proof or water repellant, which may protect the interior space 10 against dry or wet debris.

[0027] The barriers 14 and 16 may be used to cover the entirety of the ceiling area 12, or any desired portion thereof, in order to capture any debris that may fall from the ceiling area 12 or above. The barriers 14 and 16 may be formed and shipped to desired location for installation and use. Often the barriers 14 and 16, may be formed in large rolls so a user can cut the barriers to any preferred length. These large rolls of barriers 14 and 16 may have predetermined widths, enabling easier shipping and movements around a corresponding job site. These large rolls of barriers 14 and 16 can be rolled out and hung from or near the ceiling area 12. However, due to the variable size of interior spaces 10 of buildings, multiple pieces or sections of the barriers 14 and 16 may need to be used. This can be accomplished by connecting barriers 14 and 16 side by side to form a substantially continuous barrier, so that any material or debris falling form the ceiling will be caught and retained by the barriers 14 and 16, without material or debris falling between the barriers 14 and 16.

[0028] The barriers 14 and 16 may be secured together by using a first fastener 100, a second fastener 200 and a link 300, and, if desired, a suitable number of fasteners 100 and 200 and links 300. The first fastener 100 may include a first hook 102, a second hook 104, and a curved portion 112. The first hook 102 and the second hook 104 may be connected to one another via the curved portion 112. The first fastener 100 may also include a first arm 108 and a second arm 110 which may partially form the curved portion 112. First arm 108 may extend continuously from the first hook 102 to the curved portion 112. The first arm 108, second arm 110, and curved portion 112, in any design which includes or does not include a first hook 102 or a second hook 104, forms or constitutes an enclosed loop portion 106 with one of the barriers 14 or 16, when the first hook 102 and / or the second hook 104 is secured to the barriers 14 and / or 16. In other embodiments not shown, the curved portion 112 may have a V-shape forming a corner or the curved portion 112 may be formed in any other desired shape. Second arm 110 may extend continuously from the second hook 104 to the curved portion 112. Therefore, the loop portion 106 may be substantially formed by the first and second arms 108 and 110 and the curved portion 112. The loop portion 106 may also be formed as an enclosed loop or substantially enclosed loop, such that the fastener is continuous from the first hook 102 to the second hook 104 without any material gap or separation between the first arm 108, the curved portion 112 and the second arm 110. A significant advantage of the enclosed loop construction of the first fastener 100, is a more secure coupling of the first fastener 100 with the link 300 during use since there is no gap or separation between the first arm 108, the curved portion 112 and the second arm 110, whereby the link 300 my unintentionally decouple from the first fastener 100 during use.

[0029] The first and second arms 108 and 110 may be substantially straight or may be curved or bent. The hooks 102 and 104, arms 108 and 110, and curved portion 112 may all be formed of the same material and may be formed having substantially the same cross-sectional thickness and shape. However, in other embodiments not shown the hooks 102 and 104, arms 108 and 110, and curved portion 112 may all be formed of the different materials and may be formed having substantially different cross-sectional thicknesses and shapes.

[0030] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first arm 108 and the second arm 110 may lie in substantially the same imaginary plane. The first hook 102 and the second hook 104 may br formed such that they do not lie in that same imaginary plane. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first hook 102 and the second hook 104 may be substantially orthogonal to that imaginary plane. In other embodiments not shown, the first hook 102 and the second hook 104 may be formed at any desired angle with respect to the imaginary plane.

[0031] The first hook 102 and the second hook104 may be curved or V-shaped having a corner. The first hook 102 may include a tip 103, or terminating end, that may be sharp, formed in a point, or may be blunt. The tip 103, however, may be capable of piercing or puncturing the first or second barriers 14 and 16. The second hook 104 may include a tip 105, or terminating end, that may be sharp, formed in a point, or may be blunt. The tip 105, however, may be capable of piercing or puncturing the first or second barriers 14 and 16.

[0032] The first fastener 100 may be made of metal, plastic, composite or any other desired material capable of securing the first barrier 14 to the second barrier 16.

[0033] The second fastener 200 may include a first hook 202, a second hook 204, and a curved portion 212. The first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may be connected to one another via the curved portion 212. The first fastener 200 may also include a first arm 208 and a second arm 210 which may partially form the curved portion 212. First arm 208 may extend continuously from the first hook 202 to the curved portion 212. In other embodiments not shown, the curved portion 212 may have a V-shape forming a corner or the curved portion 212 may be formed in any other desired shape. Second arm 210 may extend continuously from the second hook 204 to the curved portion 212. Therefore, a loop portion 206 may be substantially formed by the first and second arms 208 and 210 and the curved portion 212. The first arm 208, second arm 210, and curved portion 112, in any design which includes or does not include a first hook 202 or a second hook 204, forms or constitutes the enclosed loop portion 106 with one of the barrier 14 or 16, when the first hook 202 and / or the second hook 204 is secured to the barriers 14 and / or 16. The loop portion 206 may also be formed as an enclosed loop or substantially enclosed loop, such that the fastener is continuous from the first hook 202 to the second hook 204 without any material gap or separation between the first arm 208, the curved portion 212 and the second arm 210.

[0034] A significant advantage of the enclosed loop construction of the second fastener 200, may be a more secure coupling of the second fastener 200 with the link 300 during use since there is no gap or separation between the first arm 208, the curved portion 212 and the second arm 210, whereby the link 300 my unintentionally decouple from the first fastener 200 during use.

[0035] The first and second arms 208 and 210 may be substantially straight or may be curved or bent. The hooks 202 and 204, arms 208 and 210, and curved portion 212 may all be formed of the same material and may be formed having substantially the same cross-sectional thickness and shape. However, in other embodiments not shown the hooks 202 and 204, arms 208 and 210, and curved portion 212 may all be formed of the different materials and may be formed having substantially different cross-sectional thicknesses and shapes.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first arm 208 and the second arm 210 may lie in substantially the same imaginary plane. The first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may br formed such that they do not lie in that same imaginary plane. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may be substantially orthogonal to that imaginary plane. In other embodiments not shown, the first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may be formed at any desired angle with respect to the imaginary plane.

[0037] The first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may be curved or V-shaped having a corner. The first hook 202 may include a tip 203, or terminating end, that may be sharp, formed in a point, or may be blunt. The tip 203, however, may be capable of piercing or puncturing the first or second barriers 14 and 16. The second hook 204 may include a tip 205, or terminating end, that may be sharp, formed in a point, or may be blunt. The tip 205, however, may be capable of piercing or puncturing the first or second barriers 14 and 16.

[0038] The second fastener 200 may be made of metal, plastic, composite or any other desired material capable of securing the first barrier 14 to the second barrier 16.

[0039] As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the link 300 may be a single unitary link, being formed as a one-piece structure. The link 300 may include a first opening 302 and a second opening 304. The first opening 302 and the second opening 304 may be formed as holes, as shown, but in other embodiments the openings 302 and 304 may be formed as groove or hook or any other potential structural shape that may be capable of receiving and securing at least a portion of the first or second fasteners 100 and 200.

[0040] The link 300 may also include a body portion 306 formed between the first opening and the second opening. The link 300 may be substantially planar in shape, or may have curves or other desired shapes or formations.

[0041] The link 300 may also be formed as a fusible link. A fusible link may be defined as a unitary structure that is formed using fusible alloy which may melt under specific high temperatures, causing the link to split into two pieces 308 and 310, one piece 308 having the first opening 302 and the second piece 310 having the second opening 304. The fusible link 300 may be made from eutectic alloy, alloy steel, bronze, brass, stainless steel, fusible alloys, or any combination of those materials of other desired material capable of partially melting a specific temperature to release or split the link 300 into two pieces 308 and 310.

[0042] A disclosed method of protecting an interior space of a building may include attaching the first barrier 14 to at least partially cover an inside space of a building. This attaching may be accomplished by the use of ties, fasteners and / or adhesives or any other desired attachment mechanisms. Then a user may attach the second barrier 16 to also at least partially cover an inside space of a building. This attaching may also be accomplished by the use of ties, fasteners and / or adhesives or any other desired attachment mechanisms.

[0043] The first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 may be coupled or secured together by securing the first fastener 100 to the first opening 302 of the link 300. Securing the first fastener 100 to the first opening 302 or the link 300 may be accomplished by simply pushing the first or second arms 108 and 110 of the first fastener 100 through the first opening 302 such that the curved portion 112 of the first fastener 100 contacts the exterior surface of the first opening 302.

[0044] A user may then couple or secure the first fastener 100 to the first barrier 14. The first fastener 100 can be secured to the first barrier 14 by puncturing or inserting the first and second hooks 102 and 104 through the first barrier 14. Due to their hook shape, the first and second hooks 102 and 104 may reliably secure the first fastener 100 to the first barrier 14 while also enabling the first fastener 100 to be removably secured to the first barrier 14 for repeated use or easy adjustability during installation. And due to the enclosed loop construction of the first fastener 100, there may be a more secure coupling of the second fastener 100 with the link 300 during use since there is no gap or separation between the first arm 108, the curved portion 106 and the second arm 110 and the first barrier 14, whereby the link 300 may unintentionally decouple from the first fastener 100 during use.

[0045] Securing the second fastener 200 to the second opening 304 of the link 300 may be accomplished by simply pushing the first or second arms 208 and 210 of the second fastener 200 through the second opening 304 such that the curved portion 212 of the second fastener 200 contacts the exterior surface of the second opening 304.

[0046] A user may then couple or secure the second fastener 200 to the second barrier 16. The second fastener 200 can be secured to the second barrier 16 by puncturing or inserting the first and second hooks 202 and 204 through the second barrier 16. Due to their hook shape, the first and second hooks 202 and 204 may reliably secure the first fastener 200 to the second barrier 16 while also enabling the second fastener 200 to be removably secured to the second barrier 16 for repeated use or easy adjustability during installation. And due to the enclosed loop construction of the second fastener 200, there ma be a more secure coupling of the second fastener 200 with the link 300 during use since there is no gap or separation between the first arm 208, the curved portion 212 and the second arm 210 and the second barrier 16, whereby the link 300 my unintentionally decouple from the second fastener 200 during use.

[0047] Once the first faster 100 may be coupled or secured to both the link 300 and the first barrier 14 and the second fastener 200 may be coupled or secured to both the link 300 and the second barrier 16, the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 may be configured positioned such that the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 may overlap 18 with one another so as to form a joined and substantially continuous barrier, protecting the interior space 10 from debris. The overlap 18 of first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 may substantially prevent the any debris from passing between the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 into the interior space 10.

[0048] During use, the first fastener 100, second fastener 200 and link 300 may reliably secure the first barrier 14 and second barrier 16 above the interior space. However, in a potential fire situation, where the fire suppression sprinkler system (not shown) of an interior space may be secured to the respective ceiling above the first barrier 14 and second barrier 16, water from the fire suppression sprinkler system would be unable to reach the fire below in the interior space 10 because the water would be captured by the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16. To prevent this dangerous situation, the fusible link 300 may be used which may be designed and configure to melt and release or split the link 300 into two pieces 308 and 310, one piece 308 having the first opening 302 and the second piece 310 having the second opening 304. When this occurs, the first barrier 14 will no longer be secured to the second barrier 16, thus dropping at least a significant portion of both the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 down toward the interior space 10, leaving at least a significant portion of the interior space 10 exposed to the ceiling and thereby the fire suppression sprinkler system.

[0049] In the foregoing Detailed Description, various features of the present disclosure are grouped together in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed disclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description of the Disclosure by this reference, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] It is to be understood that the above-described arrangements are only illustrative of the application of the principles of the present disclosure. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure are intended to cover such modifications and arrangements. Thus, while the present disclosure has been shown in the drawings and described above with particularity and detail, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may be made without departing from the principles and concepts set forth herein.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0017]For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles in accordance with the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated herein, which would normally occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the disclosure claimed.

[0018]It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0019]In describing and claiming the present disclosure, the following terminology will be used in accordance wit...

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] Not applicable.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

[0002] Not applicable.BACKGROUND1. The Field of the Present Disclosure

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to a system for protecting an interior building space, including: a barrier attached or positioned under a ceiling area and above an interior building space.2. Description of Related Art

[0004] In situations or circumstances where interior building spaces have a potential for debris to fall from the ceiling, such as during construction of a portion of the ceiling or if ongoing damage to the ceiling or above is occurring or has occurred, plastic or fabric barriers may be used to catch such debris and keep the space below the ceiling free from debris or other unwanted or unsafe materials or particles. Often times these plastic barrier may be manufactured in large rolls of material that can be rolled out and hung from or near the ceiling.

[0005] Due to the variable size of rooms or interior building spaces, multiple pieces of the plastic barrier may need to be used and must therefor be connected one-to-another, so that any material falling form the ceiling will be caught and retained by the plastic barrier. These multiple pieces of plastic barrier have conventionally been tied together or taped together, however, this can be time consuming, unreliable, and sometimes adds significant expense to the project. Once a user is done with the plastic barrier, it can be removed along with any debris that was captured and disposed of.

[0006] The features and advantages of the present disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the present disclosure without undue experimentation. The features and advantages of the present disclosure may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. Any discussion of documents, acts, materials, devices, articles or the like which has been included in the present specification is not to be taken as an admission that any or all of these matters form part of the prior art base, or were common general knowledge in the field relevant to the present disclosure as it existed before the priority date of each claim of this application.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] The features and advantages of the disclosure will become apparent from a consideration of the subsequent detailed description presented in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0008] FIG. 1 is a zoomed in bottom view of an interior protection system of the present disclosure;

[0009] FIG. 2 is a zoomed out perspective view of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0010] FIG. 3 is a top view of a first fastener of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0011] FIG. 4 is a side view of the first fastener of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0012] FIG. 5 is a top view of a second fastener of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0013] FIG. 6 is a side view of the second fastener of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0014] FIG. 7 is a top view of a link of the interior protection system of FIG. 1;

[0015] FIG. 8 is a bottom view of the link of the interior protection system of FIG. 1; and

[0016] FIG. 9 is a top view of the assembled first fastener, second fastener, and link of the interior protection system of FIG. 1.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles in accordance with the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated herein, which would normally occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the disclosure claimed.

[0018] It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0019] In describing and claiming the present disclosure, the following terminology will be used in accordance with the definitions set out below.

[0020] As used herein, the terms “comprising,”“including,”“containing,”“characterized by,” and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps.

[0021] The term “tip” as used herein, shall refer broadly to any portion of an object that includes a terminating end of said object. The term “tip” as used herein, shall also refer to any known definition of that term that is either consistent with or not inconsistent with the definition in the forgoing sentence.

[0022] The term “barrier” as used herein, shall refer broadly to any object or portion of an object that may at least partially shield an designated area or space. The term “barrier” shall also be broadly defined so as to cover objects that a rigid or flexible or semi-rigid or semi-flexible.

[0023] The term “hook” as used herein, shall refer broadly to any portion of an object that includes a generally J-shape, which may include a generally curved portion or may include one or multiple corners.

[0024] The phrase “fusible link” as used herein, shall refer broadly to a substantially unitary structure that may be formed using a fusible alloy which may melt under specific high temperatures, such as a fire in a building as a non-limiting example, causing the link to split into two pieces, or multiple pieces.

[0025] Referring now to FIGS. 1-9, the present disclosure includes a system and method for protecting interior spaces in building. The disclosed method and system may be used to protect an interior space 10 inside a building or enclosure, from debris or other unwanted or unsafe materials or particles that may fall from a ceiling area 12, or above, during a construction project or during ongoing damage to the ceiling area 12.

[0026] Plastic barriers, a first barrier 14 and a second barrier 16, may be made of flexible sheets of plastic, or any other desired material that can be used to catch falling particles and debris without tearing or failing. The barriers 14 and 16 may also be water proof or water repellant, which may protect the interior space 10 against dry or wet debris.

[0027] The barriers 14 and 16 may be used to cover the entirety of the ceiling area 12, or any desired portion thereof, in order to capture any debris that may fall from the ceiling area 12 or above. The barriers 14 and 16 may be formed and shipped to desired location for installation and use. Often the barriers 14 and 16, may be formed in large rolls so a user can cut the barriers to any preferred length. These large rolls of barriers 14 and 16 may have predetermined widths, enabling easier shipping and movements around a corresponding job site. These large rolls of barriers 14 and 16 can be rolled out and hung from or near the ceiling area 12. However, due to the variable size of interior spaces 10 of buildings, multiple pieces or sections of the barriers 14 and 16 may need to be used. This can be accomplished by connecting barriers 14 and 16 side by side to form a substantially continuous barrier, so that any material or debris falling form the ceiling will be caught and retained by the barriers 14 and 16, without material or debris falling between the barriers 14 and 16.

[0028] The barriers 14 and 16 may be secured together by using a first fastener 100, a second fastener 200 and a link 300, and, if desired, a suitable number of fasteners 100 and 200 and links 300. The first fastener 100 may include a first hook 102, a second hook 104, and a curved portion 112. The first hook 102 and the second hook 104 may be connected to one another via the curved portion 112. The first fastener 100 may also include a first arm 108 and a second arm 110 which may partially form the curved portion 112. First arm 108 may extend continuously from the first hook 102 to the curved portion 112. The first arm 108, second arm 110, and curved portion 112, in any design which includes or does not include a first hook 102 or a second hook 104, forms or constitutes an enclosed loop portion 106 with one of the barriers 14 or 16, when the first hook 102 and / or the second hook 104 is secured to the barriers 14 and / or 16. In other embodiments not shown, the curved portion 112 may have a V-shape forming a corner or the curved portion 112 may be formed in any other desired shape. Second arm 110 may extend continuously from the second hook 104 to the curved portion 112. Therefore, the loop portion 106 may be substantially formed by the first and second arms 108 and 110 and the curved portion 112. The loop portion 106 may also be formed as an enclosed loop or substantially enclosed loop, such that the fastener is continuous from the first hook 102 to the second hook 104 without any material gap or separation between the first arm 108, the curved portion 112 and the second arm 110. A significant advantage of the enclosed loop construction of the first fastener 100, is a more secure coupling of the first fastener 100 with the link 300 during use since there is no gap or separation between the first arm 108, the curved portion 112 and the second arm 110, whereby the link 300 my unintentionally decouple from the first fastener 100 during use.

[0029] The first and second arms 108 and 110 may be substantially straight or may be curved or bent. The hooks 102 and 104, arms 108 and 110, and curved portion 112 may all be formed of the same material and may be formed having substantially the same cross-sectional thickness and shape. However, in other embodiments not shown the hooks 102 and 104, arms 108 and 110, and curved portion 112 may all be formed of the different materials and may be formed having substantially different cross-sectional thicknesses and shapes.

[0030] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first arm 108 and the second arm 110 may lie in substantially the same imaginary plane. The first hook 102 and the second hook 104 may br formed such that they do not lie in that same imaginary plane. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first hook 102 and the second hook 104 may be substantially orthogonal to that imaginary plane. In other embodiments not shown, the first hook 102 and the second hook 104 may be formed at any desired angle with respect to the imaginary plane.

[0031] The first hook 102 and the second hook104 may be curved or V-shaped having a corner. The first hook 102 may include a tip 103, or terminating end, that may be sharp, formed in a point, or may be blunt. The tip 103, however, may be capable of piercing or puncturing the first or second barriers 14 and 16. The second hook 104 may include a tip 105, or terminating end, that may be sharp, formed in a point, or may be blunt. The tip 105, however, may be capable of piercing or puncturing the first or second barriers 14 and 16.

[0032] The first fastener 100 may be made of metal, plastic, composite or any other desired material capable of securing the first barrier 14 to the second barrier 16.

[0033] The second fastener 200 may include a first hook 202, a second hook 204, and a curved portion 212. The first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may be connected to one another via the curved portion 212. The first fastener 200 may also include a first arm 208 and a second arm 210 which may partially form the curved portion 212. First arm 208 may extend continuously from the first hook 202 to the curved portion 212. In other embodiments not shown, the curved portion 212 may have a V-shape forming a corner or the curved portion 212 may be formed in any other desired shape. Second arm 210 may extend continuously from the second hook 204 to the curved portion 212. Therefore, a loop portion 206 may be substantially formed by the first and second arms 208 and 210 and the curved portion 212. The first arm 208, second arm 210, and curved portion 112, in any design which includes or does not include a first hook 202 or a second hook 204, forms or constitutes the enclosed loop portion 106 with one of the barrier 14 or 16, when the first hook 202 and / or the second hook 204 is secured to the barriers 14 and / or 16. The loop portion 206 may also be formed as an enclosed loop or substantially enclosed loop, such that the fastener is continuous from the first hook 202 to the second hook 204 without any material gap or separation between the first arm 208, the curved portion 212 and the second arm 210.

[0034] A significant advantage of the enclosed loop construction of the second fastener 200, may be a more secure coupling of the second fastener 200 with the link 300 during use since there is no gap or separation between the first arm 208, the curved portion 212 and the second arm 210, whereby the link 300 my unintentionally decouple from the first fastener 200 during use.

[0035] The first and second arms 208 and 210 may be substantially straight or may be curved or bent. The hooks 202 and 204, arms 208 and 210, and curved portion 212 may all be formed of the same material and may be formed having substantially the same cross-sectional thickness and shape. However, in other embodiments not shown the hooks 202 and 204, arms 208 and 210, and curved portion 212 may all be formed of the different materials and may be formed having substantially different cross-sectional thicknesses and shapes.

[0036] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first arm 208 and the second arm 210 may lie in substantially the same imaginary plane. The first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may br formed such that they do not lie in that same imaginary plane. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may be substantially orthogonal to that imaginary plane. In other embodiments not shown, the first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may be formed at any desired angle with respect to the imaginary plane.

[0037] The first hook 202 and the second hook 204 may be curved or V-shaped having a corner. The first hook 202 may include a tip 203, or terminating end, that may be sharp, formed in a point, or may be blunt. The tip 203, however, may be capable of piercing or puncturing the first or second barriers 14 and 16. The second hook 204 may include a tip 205, or terminating end, that may be sharp, formed in a point, or may be blunt. The tip 205, however, may be capable of piercing or puncturing the first or second barriers 14 and 16.

[0038] The second fastener 200 may be made of metal, plastic, composite or any other desired material capable of securing the first barrier 14 to the second barrier 16.

[0039] As best shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the link 300 may be a single unitary link, being formed as a one-piece structure. The link 300 may include a first opening 302 and a second opening 304. The first opening 302 and the second opening 304 may be formed as holes, as shown, but in other embodiments the openings 302 and 304 may be formed as groove or hook or any other potential structural shape that may be capable of receiving and securing at least a portion of the first or second fasteners 100 and 200.

[0040] The link 300 may also include a body portion 306 formed between the first opening and the second opening. The link 300 may be substantially planar in shape, or may have curves or other desired shapes or formations.

[0041] The link 300 may also be formed as a fusible link. A fusible link may be defined as a unitary structure that is formed using fusible alloy which may melt under specific high temperatures, causing the link to split into two pieces 308 and 310, one piece 308 having the first opening 302 and the second piece 310 having the second opening 304. The fusible link 300 may be made from eutectic alloy, alloy steel, bronze, brass, stainless steel, fusible alloys, or any combination of those materials of other desired material capable of partially melting a specific temperature to release or split the link 300 into two pieces 308 and 310.

[0042] A disclosed method of protecting an interior space of a building may include attaching the first barrier 14 to at least partially cover an inside space of a building. This attaching may be accomplished by the use of ties, fasteners and / or adhesives or any other desired attachment mechanisms. Then a user may attach the second barrier 16 to also at least partially cover an inside space of a building. This attaching may also be accomplished by the use of ties, fasteners and / or adhesives or any other desired attachment mechanisms.

[0043] The first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 may be coupled or secured together by securing the first fastener 100 to the first opening 302 of the link 300. Securing the first fastener 100 to the first opening 302 or the link 300 may be accomplished by simply pushing the first or second arms 108 and 110 of the first fastener 100 through the first opening 302 such that the curved portion 112 of the first fastener 100 contacts the exterior surface of the first opening 302.

[0044] A user may then couple or secure the first fastener 100 to the first barrier 14. The first fastener 100 can be secured to the first barrier 14 by puncturing or inserting the first and second hooks 102 and 104 through the first barrier 14. Due to their hook shape, the first and second hooks 102 and 104 may reliably secure the first fastener 100 to the first barrier 14 while also enabling the first fastener 100 to be removably secured to the first barrier 14 for repeated use or easy adjustability during installation. And due to the enclosed loop construction of the first fastener 100, there may be a more secure coupling of the second fastener 100 with the link 300 during use since there is no gap or separation between the first arm 108, the curved portion 106 and the second arm 110 and the first barrier 14, whereby the link 300 may unintentionally decouple from the first fastener 100 during use.

[0045] Securing the second fastener 200 to the second opening 304 of the link 300 may be accomplished by simply pushing the first or second arms 208 and 210 of the second fastener 200 through the second opening 304 such that the curved portion 212 of the second fastener 200 contacts the exterior surface of the second opening 304.

[0046] A user may then couple or secure the second fastener 200 to the second barrier 16. The second fastener 200 can be secured to the second barrier 16 by puncturing or inserting the first and second hooks 202 and 204 through the second barrier 16. Due to their hook shape, the first and second hooks 202 and 204 may reliably secure the first fastener 200 to the second barrier 16 while also enabling the second fastener 200 to be removably secured to the second barrier 16 for repeated use or easy adjustability during installation. And due to the enclosed loop construction of the second fastener 200, there ma be a more secure coupling of the second fastener 200 with the link 300 during use since there is no gap or separation between the first arm 208, the curved portion 212 and the second arm 210 and the second barrier 16, whereby the link 300 my unintentionally decouple from the second fastener 200 during use.

[0047] Once the first faster 100 may be coupled or secured to both the link 300 and the first barrier 14 and the second fastener 200 may be coupled or secured to both the link 300 and the second barrier 16, the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 may be configured positioned such that the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 may overlap 18 with one another so as to form a joined and substantially continuous barrier, protecting the interior space 10 from debris. The overlap 18 of first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 may substantially prevent the any debris from passing between the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 into the interior space 10.

[0048] During use, the first fastener 100, second fastener 200 and link 300 may reliably secure the first barrier 14 and second barrier 16 above the interior space. However, in a potential fire situation, where the fire suppression sprinkler system (not shown) of an interior space may be secured to the respective ceiling above the first barrier 14 and second barrier 16, water from the fire suppression sprinkler system would be unable to reach the fire below in the interior space 10 because the water would be captured by the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16. To prevent this dangerous situation, the fusible link 300 may be used which may be designed and configure to melt and release or split the link 300 into two pieces 308 and 310, one piece 308 having the first opening 302 and the second piece 310 having the second opening 304. When this occurs, the first barrier 14 will no longer be secured to the second barrier 16, thus dropping at least a significant portion of both the first barrier 14 and the second barrier 16 down toward the interior space 10, leaving at least a significant portion of the interior space 10 exposed to the ceiling and thereby the fire suppression sprinkler system.

[0049] In the foregoing Detailed Description, various features of the present disclosure are grouped together in a single embodiment for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. This method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed disclosure requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description of the Disclosure by this reference, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] It is to be understood that the above-described arrangements are only illustrative of the application of the principles of the present disclosure. Numerous modifications and alternative arrangements may be devised by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure are intended to cover such modifications and arrangements. Thus, while the present disclosure has been shown in the drawings and described above with particularity and detail, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may be made without departing from the principles and concepts set forth herein.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0017]For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles in accordance with the disclosure, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the disclosure is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the disclosure as illustrated herein, which would normally occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the disclosure claimed.

[0018]It must be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0019]In describing and claiming the present disclosure, the following terminology will be used in accordance wit...

Claims

1. A system for protecting an interior building space, comprising:a first barrier and a second barrier;a first fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion, and wherein the first hook is secured to the first barrier and the second hook is secured to the first barrier;a second fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion, and wherein the first hook is secured to the second barrier and the second hook is secured to the second barrier;a single unitary link having a first opening and a second opening, wherein the first fastener is secured to the first opening of the single unitary link and the second fastener is secured to the second opening of the link; andwherein the first barrier and the second barrier are configured such that when first fastener and the second fastener are secured to the link, the first barrier and the second barrier will overlap with one another so as to form a joined and substantially continuous barrier.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the first hook and the second hook of the first fastener are connected to form an enclosed loop when the first hook is secured to the first barrier and the second hook is secured to the first barrier, such that first fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook.

3. The system of claim 2, wherein the first hook and the second hook of the second fastener are connected to form an enclosed loop when the first hook is secured to the second barrier and the second hook is secured to the second barrier, such that second fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook.

4. The system of claim 2, wherein the enclosed loop of the first fastener is secured to the first opening of the link.

5. The system of claim 3, wherein the enclosed loop of the second fastener is secured to the second opening of the link.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the first fastener is a single unitary piece.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein the second fastener is a single unitary piece.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second barriers are formed of flame retardant material.

9. The system of claim 6, wherein the single unitary link is a fusible link.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second hooks of the first fastener are configured to puncture through the first barrier when the first fastener is secured to the first barrier.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the first and second hooks of the second fastener are configured to puncture through the second barrier when the second fastener is secured to the second barrier.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the first fastener is removably secured to the first barrier.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the second fastener is removably secured to the second barrier.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the first and second barriers are attached or positioned within an interior building space.

15. A system for protecting an interior building space, comprising:a first barrier and a second barrier;a first fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion such that first fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook, and wherein the first fastener is secured to the first barrier and a second hook secured to the first barrier;a second fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion such that the second fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook, and wherein the second fastener is secured to the second barrier and the second hook secured to the first barrier; anda single unitary link having a first opening and a second opening, wherein the first fastener is secured to the first opening of the single unitary link and the second fastener is secured to the second opening of the link.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the curved portion of the first fastener is secured to the first opening of the link.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the curved portion of the second fastener is secured to the second opening of the link.

18. The system of claim 15, wherein the first fastener is a single unitary piece.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the second fastener is a single unitary piece.

20. The system of claim 15, wherein the first and second barriers are formed of flame retardant material.

21. The system of claim 15, wherein the single unitary link is a fusible link.

22. The system of claim 15, wherein the first and second hooks of the first fastener are configured to puncture through the first barrier when the first fastener is secured to the first barrier.

23. The system of claim 15, wherein the first and second hooks of the second fastener are configured to puncture through the second barrier when the second fastener is secured to the second barrier.

24. The system of claim 15, wherein the first fastener is removably secured to the first barrier.

25. The system of claim 15, wherein the second fastener is removably secured to the second barrier.

26. The system of claim 11, wherein the first and second barriers are attached or positioned within an interior building space.

27. The system of claim 11, wherein the first barrier and the second barrier are configured such that when first fastener and the second fastener are secured to the link, the first barrier and the second barrier overlap with one another so as to form a joined and substantially continuous barrier.

28. A method for protecting an interior building space, including, comprising:providing a first barrier and a second barrier;providing a first fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion;providing a second fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion;providing a single unitary link having a first opening and a second opening;attaching the first barrier to at least partially cover an inside space of a building;attaching the second barrier to at least partially cover an inside space of a building;securing the first fastener to the first opening of the link;securing the first fastener to the first barrier;securing the second fastener to the second opening of the link; andsecuring the second fastener to the second barrier.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the first hook and the second hook of the first fastener are connected to form an enclosed loop when the first hook is secured to the first barrier and the second hook is secured to the first barrier, such that first fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the first hook and the second hook of the second fastener are connected to form an enclosed loop when the first hook is secured to the second barrier and the second hook is secured to the second barrier, such that second fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook.

31. The method of claim 29, wherein the enclosed loop of the first fastener is secured to the first opening of the link.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the enclosed loop of the second fastener is secured to the second opening of the link.

33. The method of claim 31, wherein the first fastener is a single unitary piece.

34. The method of claim 32, wherein the second fastener is a single unitary piece.

35. The method of claim 28, wherein the first and second barriers are formed of flame retardant material.

36. The method of claim 28, wherein the single unitary link is a fusible link.

37. The method of claim 28, wherein the first and second hooks of the first fastener are configured to puncture through the first barrier when the first fastener is secured to the first barrier.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the first and second hooks of the second fastener are configured to puncture through the second barrier when the second fastener is secured to the second barrier.

39. The method of claim 28, wherein the first fastener is removably secured to the first barrier.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein the second fastener is removably secured to the second barrier.

41. The method of claim 28, wherein the first and second barriers are attached or positioned within an interior building space.

42. A method for protecting an interior building space, including, comprising:providing interior building space;providing a first barrier and a second barrier;providing a first fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion such that first fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook;providing a second fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion such that the second fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook;providing a single unitary link having a first opening and a second opening;attaching the first barrier to at least partially cover the interior building space;attaching the second barrier to at least partially cover the interior building space;securing the first fastener to the first opening of the link;securing the first fastener to the first barrier;securing the second fastener to the second opening of the link;securing the second fastener to the second barrier; andsecuring the first hook to the first opening of the link and securing the second hook to the second opening of the link, such that the first barrier and the second barrier will overlap with one another so as to form a substantially continuous barrier between the ceiling area and the interior space.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein the curved portion of the first fastener is secured to the first opening of the link.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the curved portion of the second fastener is secured to the second opening of the link.

45. The method of claim 42, wherein the first fastener is a single unitary piece.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein the second fastener is a single unitary piece.

47. The method of claim 42, wherein the first and second barriers are formed of flame retardant material.

48. The method of claim 42, wherein the single unitary link is a fusible link.

49. The method of claim 42, wherein the first and second hooks of the first fastener are configured to puncture through the first barrier when the first fastener is secured to the first barrier.

50. The method of claim 42, wherein the first and second hooks of the second fastener are configured to puncture through the second barrier when the second fastener is secured to the second barrier.

51. The method of claim 42, wherein the first fastener is removably secured to the first barrier.

52. The method of claim 42, wherein the second fastener is removably secured to the second barrier.

53. The method of claim 52, wherein the first and second barriers are attached or positioned within an interior building space.

54. The method of claim 52, wherein the first barrier and the second barrier are configured such that when first fastener and the second fastener are secured to the link, the first barrier and the second barrier overlap with one another so as to form a joined and substantially continuous barrier.

55. A system for protecting an interior building space, comprising:a first barrier and a second barrier;a first fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion, and wherein the first hook is secured to the first barrier and the second hook is secured to the first barrier;a second fastener having a first hook, a second hook, and a curved portion, wherein the first hook and the second hook are connected via the curved portion, and wherein the first hook is secured to the second barrier and the second hook is secured to the second barrier;a single unitary link having a first opening and a second opening, wherein the first fastener is secured to the first opening of the single unitary link and the second fastener is secured to the second opening of the link; andwherein the first barrier and the second barrier are configured such that when first fastener and the second fastener are secured to the link, the first barrier and the second barrier will overlap with one another so as to form a joined and substantially continuous barrier.wherein the first hook and the second hook of the first fastener are connected to form an enclosed loop when the first hook is secured to the first barrier and the second hook is secured to the first barrier, such that first fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook;wherein the first hook and the second hook of the second fastener are connected to form an enclosed loop when the first hook is secured to the second barrier and the second hook is secured to the second barrier, such that second fastener is continuous from the first hook to the second hook;wherein the enclosed loop of the first fastener is secured to the first opening of the link;wherein the enclosed loop of the second fastener is secured to the second opening of the link;wherein the first fastener is a single unitary piece;wherein the second fastener is a single unitary piece;wherein the first and second barriers are formed of flame retardant material;wherein the single unitary link is a fusible link;wherein the first and second hooks of the first fastener are configured to puncture through the first barrier when the first fastener is secured to the first barrier;wherein the first and second hooks of the second fastener are configured to puncture through the second barrier when the second fastener is secured to the second barrier;wherein the first fastener is removably secured to the first barrier;wherein the second fastener is removably secured to the second barrier; andwherein the first and second barriers are attached or positioned within an interior building space.

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