Diverse acoustical modules with identical outward appearance

Abstract

Diverse acoustical modules have identical outward appearance. A series of modules each has an unobtrusive acoustically transparent surface, each module providing a different acoustical functionality while each bears a common outward appearance. Therefore, an acoustical environment can be created specifically suited for the particular application, but devoid of any distracting differences of appearance between the respective absorbers, reflectors, and diffusers that are employed to create the aesthetic appearance. One manner of installation can include a grid structure suspended from the existing ceiling and allowing each module to be removably installed in a space having a desired shape such as a square or rectangle. Alternatively, the different acoustical treatment modules can be directly surface mounted to a ceiling or wall, preferably in a manner permitting easy removal for servicing or replacing due to damage or changing acoustical characteristics.

1 . In combination, a multiplicity of acoustical modules mounted adjacent to one another within a room, said modules including: 
 a) a first module having acoustical characteristics chosen from the group consisting of absorptive, reflective, diffusive and a combination of absorptive and diffusive;    b) a further module having acoustical characteristics differing from the acoustical characteristics of said first module;    c) each module having a face facing toward said room, said face being covered with a surface veil substantially transparent to sound waves but hiding, from view, structure of said module.    
   
   
       2 . The combination of  claim 1 , wherein surface veils of said modules are identical to one another.  
   
   
       3 . The combination of  claim 2 , wherein said surface veils are made of a material chosen from the group consisting of non-woven glass fiber mat, woven glass yarns, fine linens, and woven metals.  
   
   
       4 . The combination of  claim 1 , wherein each module includes a frame with an acoustical treatment mounted on said frame and beneath said surface veil.  
   
   
       5 . The combination of  claim 4 , wherein said surface veil has peripheral edges wrapped about said frame.  
   
   
       6 . The combination of  claim 5 , wherein each said frame is rectangular.  
   
   
       7 . The combination of  claim 6 , wherein said modules are mounted on a wall.  
   
   
       8 . The combination of  claim 6 , further including a grid system suspended from a ceiling of said room, said modules mounted in said grid system.  
   
   
       9 . The combination of  claim 8 , wherein said grid system includes a multiplicity of rectangular openings, each sized to receive a module, each module being removably mounted in a said opening.  
   
   
       10 . The combination of  claim 9 , wherein each frame has an L-shaped cross-section.  
   
   
       11 . The combination of  claim 9 , wherein said first module comprises a reflector.  
   
   
       12 . The combination of  claim 9 , wherein said first module comprises an absorber.  
   
   
       13 . The combination of  claim 9 , wherein said first module comprises a diffuser.  
   
   
       14 . The combination of  claim 9 , wherein said first module comprises a diffsorber.  
   
   
       15 . In combination, a multiplicity of acoustical modules mounted adjacent one another suspended from a ceiling of a room, said modules including: 
 a) a first module having acoustical characteristics chosen from the group consisting of absorptive, reflective, diffusive and a combination of absorptive and diffusive;    b) a further module having acoustical characteristics differing from the acoustical characteristics of said first module;    c) each module having a face facing toward said room, said face being covered with a surface veil substantially transparent to sound waves but hiding, from view, structure of said module, said surface veils being made of a material chosen from the group consisting of non-woven glass fiber mat, woven glass yarns, fine linens, and woven metals;    d) each module including a rectangular frame with an acoustical treatment mounted on said frame and beneath said surface veil; and    e) further including a grid system suspended from said ceiling of said room, said modules mounted in said grid system.    
   
   
       16 . The combination of  claim 15 , wherein said surface veil has peripheral edges wrapped about said frame.  
   
   
       17 . The combination of  claim 16 , wherein said grid system includes a multiplicity of rectangular openings, each sized to receive a module, each module being removably mounted in a said opening.  
   
   
       18 . The combination of  claim 15 , wherein said first module comprises a reflector.  
   
   
       19 . The combination of  claim 15 , wherein said first module comprises an absorber.  
   
   
       20 . The combination of  claim 15 , wherein said first module comprises a diffuser.