Height-adjustable ring module and ring module system

Abstract

The electromagnetic wave-absorbing foam core of the present invention may comprise: a base made of foam; conductive particles impregnated and disposed in the base; and continuous fibers impregnated and disposed in the base. In addition, the method for manufacturing an electromagnetic wave-absorbing foam core of the present invention comprises: a first step of preparing foam; a second step of uniformly impregnating conductive particles in the foam; a third step of impregnating continuous fibers in the foam; a fourth step of adjusting the conductive particles and the continuous fibers so as to be uniformly disposed; and a fifth step of freezing the foam.

Description

Height-adjustable ring modules and ring module systems

[0001] The present invention relates to a ring module and a ring module system constituting a ring chain, and more particularly, to a ring module and a ring module system capable of adjusting height.

[0002]

[0003] Figure 1 illustrates a light fixture (120) suspended from a ceiling (110) by a ring chain (130). This structure is commonly used in various suspended structures, such as light fixtures, decorative lighting, audio equipment, and display equipment. Suspension structures utilizing ring chains have been used in various industrial fields for a long time due to their ease of installation and relatively low cost.

[0004] However, this type of structure has various problems in real-world environments, which causes inefficiency and poor quality in actual installation and maintenance work.

[0005] (1) Difficulty in horizontal adjustment and error problems

[0006] Ring chains, by their very nature, are a continuous structure of repetitively connected rings at regular intervals, making precise length adjustments extremely difficult. Because adjustments are limited to the length of a single ring, fine horizontal adjustments are either impossible or extremely cumbersome. Due to these limitations, installation objects (e.g., light fixtures) often don't align at both ends, with one end slightly lower than the other.

[0007] For example, when installing multiple lights on a hallway ceiling, they should be aligned in a straight line for aesthetic appeal and to maintain a balanced light balance. However, if even one light is not level, the entire arrangement will be misaligned, significantly diminishing the overall aesthetic quality of the interior. Furthermore, when using lighting in exhibition halls or galleries, subtle inclinations in the lighting can alter the angle of light striking the exhibits, disrupting the balance of illumination and diminishing the quality of the experience.

[0008] (2) Installation limits in spaces with uneven or slanted ceilings

[0009] On-site construction conditions don't always guarantee ideal conditions. Ceilings often aren't perfectly level, and tilting or distortion of the ceiling is particularly common in older buildings, remodeling projects, or industrial buildings.

[0010] Under these conditions, installing a suspended structure using a ring chain can be difficult due to the ceiling inclination, resulting in the entire structure tilting or being installed to one side. To compensate, the chain length must be adjusted differently. However, since length adjustment is only possible for each ring, it's impossible to achieve the desired exact length. This ultimately leads to inefficient methods, such as cutting off parts of the ring or adding separate accessories. This not only extends the work time, but can also compromise the stability of the structure.

[0011] (3) Work safety and burden of construction personnel

[0012] Most installation work using ring chains involves working at heights. Workers must use ladders or platforms to reach the ceiling, adjust the chain length, check the level of the object, and, if necessary, climb up and down multiple times to make fine adjustments. This process is not only time-consuming, but also causes musculoskeletal fatigue due to prolonged work at heights, increasing the risk of occupational accidents such as falls.

[0013] In particular, to adjust the position of the chain links, the chain sometimes needs to be removed and re-inserted, which is difficult to do by hand without tools, and if handled incorrectly, the links may come apart or the chain may break, which can lead to a safety accident.

[0014] (4) Limitations of the chain itself and difficulties in maintenance

[0015] Ring chains are often made of metals like iron or stainless steel, but they can develop corrosion, discoloration, and contamination over time. Especially in kitchens, factories, and outdoor installation environments, moisture, oil vapor, and dust can damage the chain's appearance or weaken its strength. In such cases, the chain must be replaced, but this requires disassembling or lifting the entire structure, which can be a significant time and cost consuming process.

[0016] Furthermore, because ring chains have a simple fastening mechanism, external impacts can cause the links to become loose or break. For example, if decorations or lighting installed in a commercial space are shaken by an earthquake, strong wind, or vibration, the chain links could detach, causing the structure to fall, potentially resulting in personal injury.

[0017] (5) Difficulty in applying complex structures

[0018] Ring chains are strong under linear loads, but weak under torsional or lateral loads. Therefore, when installing equipment with an uneven center of gravity or movement, such as flower pots, speakers, air purifiers, or CCTV, in addition to lighting, the chain may rotate or twist. This can cause tangled wires or device orientation changes, potentially affecting functionality.

[0019]

[0020] The present invention is intended to solve the problems of the prior art as described above, and its purpose is to provide a technology that facilitates horizontal adjustment in a hanging structure using a ring chain, thereby shortening installation time, increasing worker safety, reducing maintenance burden, and responding to various installation environments and structures.

[0021]

[0022] The height-adjustable ring module of the present invention to achieve the above-mentioned purpose is:

[0023] It may include an upper part having threads formed at both ends, an adjusting part having threads formed on the inner surface thereof to engage with the threads formed on the upper part, and a lower part having a detachment prevention step formed to engage with the height adjusting part at both ends and to prevent the height adjusting part from coming off.

[0024] Additionally, a transparent window with scales printed on the side of the height adjustment part may be provided.

[0025] Furthermore, it may further include a fixing part that fixes the height adjustment part to the lower part by screwing it to both ends of the lower part.

[0026] A reverse rotation prevention wing or protrusion may be formed to prevent rotation in the opposite direction to the direction in which the upper part is fastened, and at least one of the upper part and the lower part may be made of metal or reinforced plastic to improve load-bearing capacity.

[0027] Here, the screw threads of the above-mentioned adjusting part may be formed of a lubricating coating or Teflon material that reduces frictional resistance.

[0028] The above transparent window may be formed of polycarbonate material and may be resistant to impact and heat.

[0029] The scale displayed on the above transparent window is precisely indicated in mm units, and a laser pointer or arrow marker indicating the reference position may be provided externally.

[0030] The above fixed part may be capable of being engaged or disengaged without tools, including a lever or button type locking device.

[0031] Furthermore, a ring portion connected to the lower part is provided, so that it can be easily connected to a structure or ceiling fixture.

[0032] An anti-slip pattern or roughening treatment may be applied to the surface of the upper part or lower part.

[0033] In addition, the above-mentioned anti-separation bump may be formed of a material capable of elastic deformation and may have a structure that automatically engages according to the load during assembly.

[0034] The above adjustment part may be configured to have a click or catch structure at regular intervals so that it can be maintained in a fixed state when adjusted to a desired height by the user.

[0035] The ring module system according to the present invention can be configured such that the module is a combination of a plurality of height-adjustable ring modules and chain modules, so that the height of the multi-connected structure can be individually adjusted.

[0036]

[0037] The height-adjustable ring chain and ring chain system of the present invention provide the following effects.

[0038] It offers precise height adjustment. By installing an adjustment part with a threaded connection between the upper and lower parts, fine length adjustments are possible without relying on individual chain link adjustments. This allows for easy and precise horizontal alignment of hanging objects such as lights, displays, and audio equipment.

[0039] This reduces installation time and improves work efficiency. While conventional ring chain methods require repetitive manual work and measurements for horizontal adjustment, the new system allows for easy height adjustment simply by rotating the adjustment part, significantly reducing construction time. This effect is especially significant when multiple modules are used simultaneously.

[0040] Improves worker safety. By minimizing unstable tasks such as cutting, tripping, or pulling chains during high-altitude work, workers' risk of falls and fatigue are reduced, improving work safety.

[0041] It offers ease of maintenance and reconfiguration. Even if height adjustments are required due to environmental changes after installation (e.g., ceiling deformation, building vibrations, etc.), the module itself can be easily reconfigured without disassembling. This significantly reduces maintenance costs and contributes to maintaining the quality of the space.

[0042] Visual convenience is provided through scales and transparent windows. The configuration (claim 2) with scales and transparent windows on the side of the adjustment part allows the operator to intuitively determine the equality of left and right lengths and the current height, reducing errors during horizontal alignment and facilitating stable installation regardless of skill level.

[0043] Prevents detachment and ensures structural stability. The combined structure of the detachment prevention bump and fixed part, which prevents detachment of the adjustable part, effectively prevents the structure from separating or falling due to external impact or vibration, thereby preventing personal injury and property damage.

[0044] It provides versatility applicable to various structures. The ring module of the present invention can be applied to various ceiling-mounted structures, such as lighting fixtures, flower pots, audio equipment, CCTVs, and ceiling-mounted air purifiers, and thus has a wide range of applications, including industrial sites, commercial spaces, and homes.

[0045] Enhances aesthetics and quality. Lights and fixtures that are precisely aligned horizontally create a visually stable and luxurious impression. They can contribute to enhancing the overall design of commercial spaces, exhibition halls, and cafes.

[0046]

[0047] Figure 1 is a drawing showing a state in which a ring module according to the prior art is utilized.

[0048] Figure 2 is a drawing showing a ring module according to the prior art.

[0049] Figure 3 is a drawing showing a ring module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] Figure 4 is a drawing showing a state in which a height adjustment part and a lower part of a ring module are combined according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Figure 5 is a drawing showing a ring module with a transparent window formed in one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052]

[0053] The advantages and features of the present invention, as well as the techniques for achieving them, will become clearer with reference to the embodiments described below, along with the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented and may be implemented in various forms.

[0054] This embodiment is provided to ensure that the description of the present invention is complete and to fully inform those skilled in the art of the present invention of the contents of the invention.

[0055] Meanwhile, the terms used in this specification are for the purpose of describing embodiments and are not intended to limit the present invention. In this specification, the singular also includes the plural unless specifically stated otherwise. The terms 'comprise' and 'comprising' used in the specification do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other components, steps, operations, and / or elements mentioned.

[0056] Additionally, identical reference numerals appearing throughout each drawing indicate identical components.

[0057] and to clarify the description of the described embodiments of the present invention, known features and techniques are described.

[0058] Detailed description may be omitted.

[0059] Figure 2 shows a ring module according to the prior art. The prior art ring module (200) is composed of a main body (210) that constitutes the body of the ring and a coupling part (220) that couples both ends of the main body (210). As can be seen in the drawing, the ring module (200) according to the prior art is not designed to adjust the height of the main body (210).

[0060] FIG. 3, FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are drawings showing a ring module according to one embodiment of the present invention, a height adjustment part and a lower part of a ring module according to one embodiment of the present invention combined, and a ring module having a transparent window formed according to one embodiment of the present invention, respectively.

[0061] Referring to the drawings, the height-adjustable ring module (300) of the present invention is

[0062] It may include an upper part (310) having threads formed at both ends, a height adjustment part (320) having threads formed on the inner surface thereof to engage with the threads formed on the upper part (310), and a lower part (330) having a separation prevention step (331) formed to engage with the height adjustment part (320) at both ends and prevent the height adjustment part (320) from coming off.

[0063] Additionally, a transparent window (321) with scales printed on the side of the height adjustment part (320) may be provided.

[0064] Furthermore, it may further include a fixing part (340) that is screwed to both ends of the lower part (330) to fix the height adjustment part (320) to the lower part (330).

[0065] A reverse rotation prevention wing or protrusion may be formed to prevent rotation in the opposite direction to the direction in which the upper part (310) is fastened, and at least one of the upper part (310) and the lower part (330) may be made of metal or reinforced plastic to improve load-bearing capacity.

[0066] Here, the screw thread of the height adjustment part (320) may be formed of a lubricating coating or Teflon material that reduces frictional resistance.

[0067] The above transparent window (321) may be formed of polycarbonate material and may be resistant to impact and heat.

[0068] The scale displayed on the above transparent window (321) is precisely displayed in mm units, and a laser pointer or arrow marker indicating the reference position may be provided externally.

[0069] The above fixed part (340) may be coupled or released without tools by including a lever or button-type locking device.

[0070] Furthermore, a ring part (not shown) connected to the lower part (330) is provided, so that it can be easily connected to a structure or ceiling fixture.

[0071] An anti-slip pattern or roughening treatment may be applied to the surface of the upper part (310) or lower part (330).

[0072] In addition, the above-mentioned anti-separation bump (331) may be formed of a material capable of elastic deformation and may have a structure that automatically engages according to the load during assembly.

[0073] The above height adjustment part (320) may be configured to have a click or catch structure at regular intervals so that the fixed state is maintained when the user adjusts it to the desired height.

[0074] The ring module system according to the present invention can be configured such that the ring module (300) is a combination of a plurality of height-adjustable ring modules and chain modules, so that the height of the multi-connected structure can be individually adjusted.

[0075] An embodiment of the present invention is described in more detail as follows.

[0076] This relates to a basic height-adjustable ring module. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, a height-adjustable ring module (300) according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes an upper part (310), a height-adjustable part (320), and a lower part (330).

[0077] The upper part (310) has threads formed on both ends and forms the upper part of the ring. The height adjustment part (320) has threads formed on its inner surface that engage with the threads of the upper part (310). Therefore, the user can precisely adjust the height of the entire ring module (300) by rotating the height adjustment part (320) to adjust the length of its connection with the upper part (310).

[0078] The lower part (330) is connected to the lower part of the height adjustment part (320), and a release prevention step (331) is formed on the upper part thereof to prevent the height adjustment part (320) from coming off due to excessive rotation. This release prevention step (331) physically prevents the user from adjusting the height beyond the maximum height, thereby ensuring safe use.

[0079] In this embodiment, the upper part (310) and lower part (330) are manufactured from metal or reinforced plastic to withstand high loads, thereby improving load-bearing capacity. This is to meet the stability required when installing in industrial sites or structures.

[0080]

[0081] Next, we discuss a ring module with enhanced precision measurement and fixation functions. The second embodiment of the present invention, in addition to the basic configuration of the first embodiment, enhances precision height measurement and stable fixation functions.

[0082] As illustrated in Fig. 5, a transparent window (321) is provided on the side of the height adjustment part (320) so that the user can visually and clearly recognize the adjusted height. The transparent window (321) has a graduation in millimeters precisely printed on it, so that the user can intuitively check the current height from the outside. It is preferable that the transparent window (321) be formed of a polycarbonate material that is resistant to external impact and heat to ensure durability. Furthermore, a laser pointer or arrow marker (not illustrated) indicating a reference position on the outside of the ring module may be further provided to more accurately check the graduation.

[0083] In addition, the present embodiment further includes a fixing part (340) that is screw-connected to both ends of the lower part (330). This fixing part (340) mechanically fixes the height adjustment part (320) to the lower part (330) after the height adjustment is completed, thereby preventing the set height from changing due to vibration or external impact. In particular, if the fixing part (340) is configured to include a lever or button-type locking device, the user can quickly and conveniently lock or unlock the ring module without a separate tool.

[0084] The following describes a ring module with enhanced user convenience and safety. The third embodiment of the present invention incorporates the features of the preceding embodiments while further enhancing user convenience and safety.

[0085]

[0086] The upper part (310) may be provided with anti-rotation wings or protrusions (not shown) that prevent rotation in the opposite direction to the fastening direction. This prevents the ring module from loosening even under slight vibrations, thereby maintaining a stable height for a long period of time. In addition, to enhance the user's convenience when holding and operating the ring module by hand, an anti-slip pattern or roughening treatment may be applied to the surface of the upper part (310) or the lower part (330).

[0087] To improve assembly convenience, the anti-separation protrusion (331) of the lower part (330) may be formed of a material capable of elastic deformation. This structure simplifies the assembly process by allowing the height adjustment part (320) to be automatically engaged by a load simply by pressing it in without any separate operation when assembling.

[0088] To ensure accuracy and convenience in height adjustment, click or catch structures may be provided at regular intervals along the rotational path of the height adjustment part (320). This allows the user to adjust the height stepwise, receive clear tactile feedback when the desired height is reached, and securely fix the part in that position.

[0089] Finally, this article relates to a ring module expanded into a modular system. The fourth embodiment of the present invention relates to a ring module system that utilizes the aforementioned ring module (300) as a unit module and applies it to a multi-connected structure.

[0090] The ring module system according to the present invention may be composed of a combination of a plurality of height-adjustable ring modules (300) and a chain module (not shown) interconnecting them. Since each ring module (300) included in the system can be independently height-adjusted, the height of each connection point of a complex structure can be individually and precisely set.

[0091] To facilitate application in various environments, the lower part (330) is additionally provided with a hook (not shown) for easy connection to structures or ceiling fixtures. This configuration greatly simplifies the task of leveling or tilting structures with multiple support points, such as stage sets, lighting equipment, and factory automation lines, to a specific angle.

[0092] Furthermore, to reduce the workload when operating multiple ring modules simultaneously or sequentially, a lubricating coating that reduces frictional resistance or a Teflon material may be applied to the screw threads of the height adjustment part (320). This contributes to maximizing work efficiency.

Claims

1. Upper part with screw threads formed on both ends; An adjusting part having screw threads formed on the inner surface thereof to engage with the screw threads formed on the upper part; and A lower part formed with a detachment prevention step that is connected to the height adjustment part at both ends and prevents the height adjustment part from detaching; Height-adjustable ring module including 2. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module characterized by having a transparent window with scales printed on the side of the height-adjusting part.

3. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module further comprising a fixing part that fixes the height-adjusting part to the lower part by screwing it to both ends of the lower part.

4. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module characterized by having a reverse rotation prevention wing or protrusion formed to prevent rotation in the opposite direction to the direction in which the upper part is fastened.

5. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module characterized in that at least one of the upper part and the lower part is made of metal or reinforced plastic to improve load-bearing capacity.

6. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module characterized in that the screw thread of the above-mentioned adjusting part is formed of a lubricating coating or Teflon material that reduces frictional resistance.

7. In paragraph 2, A height-adjustable ring module characterized by the above transparent window being formed of polycarbonate material and being resistant to impact and heat.

8. In paragraph 2, A height-adjustable ring module characterized in that the above scale is precisely marked in mm units and a laser pointer or arrow marker indicating a reference position is provided on the outside.

9. In paragraph 3, A height-adjustable ring module characterized in that the above-mentioned fixed part can be joined or released without tools by including a lever or button-type locking device.

10. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module characterized by having a ring portion connected to the lower part, so that it can be easily connected to a structure or ceiling fixture.

11. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module characterized in that the surface of the upper part or lower part has an anti-slip pattern or roughness treatment.

12. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module characterized in that the above-mentioned anti-separation protrusion is formed of a material capable of elastic deformation and has a structure that automatically engages according to the load during assembly.

13. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module characterized in that the above-mentioned adjustment part is provided with a click or hook structure at regular intervals so that the fixed state is maintained when the user adjusts it to the desired height.

14. In paragraph 1, A height-adjustable ring module system characterized in that the above module is configured such that a plurality of height-adjustable ring modules and chain modules are combined to individually adjust the height of a multi-connected structure.

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