Grid framework

Abstract

A grid framework including a plurality of hangers and a plurality of grid modules. The grid modules have a pair of main framing members, a pair of transverse framing members and a plurality of corner splices which connect the main framing members to the transverse framing members. The framework provides a clearance between symmetrically positioned framing members of adjacent modules. The clearance can be utilized as a conduit for functional capability such as air return and for attaching mechanical and electrical appliances

1 . A grid framework comprising: 
 a plurality of pre-assembled grid modules, each grid module including first and second main framing members, first and second transverse framing members and a plurality of corner splices, each corner splice linking a main framing member to a transverse framing member.    
   
   
       2 . The grid framework of  claim 1 , wherein the plurality of pre-assembled grid modules are connected to a plurality of hangers.  
   
   
       3 . The grid framework of  claim 2 , wherein each hanger includes a first hanger member and a second hanger member, the second hanger member intersecting the first member.  
   
   
       4 . The grid framework of  claim 3 , wherein the first hanger member has a vertical slot for receiving the second hanger member and the second hanger member has first and second longitudinally spaced portions defining a vertical slit opening upwardly from a bottom edge of the second hanger member, wherein the vertical slit of the second hanger member interlocks in the vertical slot of the first hanger member.  
   
   
       5 . The grid framework of  claim 4 , wherein the vertical slot of the first hanger member has a notch for inserting a plug-in clip, the plug-in clip preventing inadvertent separation of the first and second hanger members.  
   
   
       6 . The grid framework of  claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of corner splices has a first connector portion, a second connector portion, an intermediate portion integrally connecting the first connector portion to the second connector portion and a tab extending from a top edge of the first connector portion proximate the intermediate portion.  
   
   
       7 . The grid framework of  claim 6 , wherein first and second connector portions are slidably engageable with the first and second framing members.  
   
   
       8 . The grid framework of  claim 6 , wherein each of the plurality of corner splices has a substantially L-shaped configuration.  
   
   
       9 . The grid framework of  claim 1 , wherein the main framing members and transverse framing members are formed of a single extrusion.  
   
   
       10 . The grid framework of  claim 1 , wherein the main framing members are linked to the transverse framing members at right angles.  
   
   
       11 . The grid framework of  claim 1 , wherein a main framing member of a first module is positioned in a symmetrical relationship with a main framing member of a second module, whereby a clearance is provided between the symmetrically positioned main framing members.  
   
   
       12 . A grid framework comprising: 
 a plurality of identical framing members, each of the plurality of identical framing members having a vertical web, wherein the vertical web of a first framing members is positioned in a symmetrical, spaced relationship with the vertical web of the second framing member, whereby a clearance is provided between the symmetrically positioned framing members.    
   
   
       13 . A framing member comprising a first grid member and a second grid member, the first and second grid members being identical, spaced apart and positioned in symmetrical relation, the first and second grid members each including: a vertical web having an interior surface, an exterior surface, a top edge and a bottom edge, the exterior surface being flat; a horizontal upper flange extending from the top edge of the vertical web; and a first horizontal lower flange extending from the bottom edge of the vertical web.  
   
   
       14 . The framing member of  claim 13 , wherein each of the first and second grid members include a second horizontal lower flange, spaced apart and in parallel relation to the first horizontal lower flange, the second horizontal lower flange being attached to the first horizontal lower flange by a vertical section.  
   
   
       15 . The framing member of  claim 13 , wherein the first horizontal lower flange and the horizontal upper flange project from the interior surface of the vertical web, the first horizontal lower flange having a rib extending upwardly therefrom and in parallel relation to the vertical web, the horizontal upper flange having a rib extending downwardly therefrom and in parallel relation to the vertical web.  
   
   
       16 . The framing member of  claim 15 , wherein the rib of the horizontal upper flange and the rib of the first horizontal lower flange cooperate with the vertical web to form a channel for receiving a connector.