NETWORK-ENABLED CEILING SUPPORT STRUCTURE

摘要

A ceiling support structure includes a plurality of network- and power-enabled rails that replace conventional structures for supporting a grid ceiling having a structure for supporting tiles and/or paneling. Each network-enabled rail comprises a plurality of connectors configured to receive a device or interface. At least some of the connectors can comprise a plurality of Power over Ethernet (PoE) connectors that provide both network connectivity and power to the devices. At least some of the connectors can comprise a plurality of fiber-optic cable connectors that provide network connectivity to the devices via the fiber-optic cable. In the fiber-optic cable connector structure, power is provided directly by the ceiling support itself which is formed of a conductive material and referred to as a power distribution bar. Each rail terminates at a hub referred to as a fog junction box that serves the power and networking for the ceiling support.

主权项

1. A ceiling support system comprising:
a plurality of ceiling support rails, each ceiling support rail having a base, a central upright portion and a top cavity; a plurality of network jacks received within the base of each ceiling support rail, wherein cables for the plurality of network jacks are received within the top cavity for each ceiling support trail and the cables terminate at a multi-signal plug on each ceiling support rail; and a fog processor connected to the plurality of ceiling support rails that manages power and networking provided the plurality of network jacks and devices when connected to the plurality of network jacks.