Patent Publication Number: US-11028223-B2

Title: Ceiling tile with built-in air flow mechanism and UV air purifying device

Description:
This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 16/157,874 filed on Oct. 11, 2018 which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 16/040,189, filed on Jul. 19, 2018, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,221,857, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 15/589,367, filed on May 8, 2017, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,247,191, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 15/471,762, filed on Mar. 28, 2017, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,006,619, which claims priority from Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/439,719 filed Dec. 28, 2016. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present inventions relate to ceiling tiles with built in air flow mechanisms and optional LED lighting, for maintaining proper air quality and air movement in an indoor environment. Embodiments of the inventions further include a UV light source which decontaminates air as it flows through the ceiling tiles and thus helps prevent the spread of bacteria, fungus, viruses and/or mold, etc. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Indoor spaces such as offices, hospitals, retail stores, educational institutions and the like have two main issues: (1) maintaining proper air quality and air movement; and (2) providing adequate lighting. Indoor spaces often have only a single HVAC system that provides air and heat to all of the different sized offices or rooms within a space. Separately, the indoor space utilizes a series of LED lights that are mounted in ceiling tiles having a dimension of 2 ft.×2 ft. or 2 ft.×4 ft. There is a need for a system which can move air within an indoor space which supplements the primary HVAC system while at the same time providing ample lighting within the indoor space while fitting into the dimensions of a ceiling tile. The system also can provide a cooling effect on the LED lights to prolong the life-span of the lights. 
     According to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), more than 360 million troffers provide general lighting in commercial building interiors. With their standard dimensions of 2 ft.×4 ft., 1 ft.×4 ft. and 2 ft.×2 ft., these luminaires are popular in dropped, acoustical-tile ceilings with a low ceiling height (less than or equal to 9 feet). The installed troffer base is predominantly linear fluorescent. In recent years, the development of LED technology has resulted in a broad selection of products designed to challenge fluorescent, offering up to 70 percent energy savings, longer life and controllability. 
     There does exist a problem with LED lights. Excessive heat causes damage to LED lights. LED bulbs that produce white light typically generate excessive heat that must be conducted away from the LED light system. Proper thermal management is critical to maintaining the original brightness and extending the lifespan of LED lights. Unfortunately, due to component costs, many manufacturers do not include the materials or structures necessary to provide proper heat transfer, thereby reducing the performance of the product. For example, most LED lighting manufacturers use less expensive and less reliable circuit boards that do not transfer heat well. Heat build-up in LED lights will damage the material, decrease the effectiveness of the light and decrease the lifespan of the lighting unit. 
     The secret to extending the useful life of an LED fixture is proper thermal management. There are several factors that affect the thermal performance of any fixture including the ambient air temperature, but LEDs specifically suffer from improper thermal design. The displacement of waste heat produced by LED lights is paramount to the longevity of the LED lights and can provide an advantage to a company in the emerging LED lighting industry. 
     The energy consumed by an incandescent bulb produces around 12% heat, 83% infrared radiation and only 5% visible light. A typical LED light produces 15% visible light and 85% heat. It is important to dissipate heat from LED&#39;s through efficient thermal management. The operating temperature of an LED light affects the lifespan of the LED. LED lights do not tend to fail catastrophically, instead the lumen output of the LED decreases over time. Elevated internal temperatures of the LED cause accelerated deterioration of the LED lights. 
     One of the major complaints levied by people working in an office, school, hospital, or commercial space concerns the temperature in the space. Complaints about temperatures are not just a matter of employees&#39; preferences and tolerances. Temperature has been found to have a direct correlation to productivity. It is believed that productivity is linked to the temperature of the building. In addition to temperature issues within a building, employees may experience headaches, dizziness, nausea, irritation, cough, fatigue, asthma and other symptoms due to what has been termed “sick building syndrome.” The primary sources of indoor air quality problems are believed to be inadequate ventilation and contamination from within the building. 
     Further, in an office or indoor environment, the absence of adequate ventilation causes irritating or harmful contaminants to accumulate, which causes worker discomfort, health problems and reduced performance levels. Such harmful contaminants include bacteria, fungus, mold or viruses that can cause people to become sick. There is a need for an air circulation mechanism which reduces airborne contaminants. Air purification is an important part of an HVAC system. A typical indoor HVAC system is not a substitute for source control or ventilation. 
     There is also a need to create what is called a virus or bacteria kill chamber. The kill chamber, or kill zone, must be self-enclosed such that any UV light source does not exit the kill chamber. 
     Moreover, it would be advantageous for an air circulation mechanism to fit within the footprint of a typical ceiling tile. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present inventions relate to a ceiling tile with a built-in fan for circulating air. Embodiments of the inventions may further include one or more LED strips for lighting the environment in which the ceiling tiles are installed. Further yet, embodiments of the invention may include one or more UV lights which irradiate the air flow, thereby removing airborne contaminants such as viruses, superbugs, mold, etc. 
     In some embodiments of the inventions, an air circulation device may comprise: a ceiling tile; at least a first fan mounted to the ceiling tile; a first vent in the ceiling tile; and a baffle, mounted to the ceiling tile, and defining at least a first airway between the fan and the first vent. A first LED strip may be mounted to the ceiling tile. Further embodiments may comprise at least a second vent, and a second LED strip, and wherein the baffle further defines a second airway between the fan and the second vent. The air circulation may further comprise at least a second fan, wherein the first and second fan are configured in-line to direct air into the first and second airway. In some embodiments, the first and second fan are configured as air in-takes and air is exhausted through the first and second vent, and the first and second fan are configured to rotate in opposite directions. 
     Further yet, embodiments may include an air diversion mechanism configured to divert air from the first and second fan to the first and second airway. A first UV light source may be mounted in the first airway. In some embodiments, a second UV light source is mounted in the second airway. In some embodiments, the first and second airway are lined with a UV-reflective material. Moreover, the UV-reflective material may be stainless steel. The first and second UV light sources may emit UV-C light waves having a wavelength between 200 to 280 nanometers. The first and second UV light sources may be configured to be activated and deactivate via a remote control. The ceiling tile may be a drywall structure. In other embodiments, the ceiling tile is an acoustic panel. 
     The inventions include an air purifying device, comprising: a ceiling tile having at least one vent; a fan mounted to the ceiling tile; a baffle defining at least a first airway between the fan and the vent; and at least a first UV light source mounted in the first airway, wherein the first airway accommodates a UV-reflective material in at least a portion of the first airway; and wherein a first UV-screen is attached to the first airway to block UV light from exiting the airway. 
     In some embodiments, the air purifying device comprises at least a second vent, and wherein the baffle further defines at least a second airway between the fan and the second vent, wherein a second UV light source is mounted in the second airway, wherein the second airway accommodates a UV-reflective material in at least a portion of the second airway, and wherein a second UV-screen is attached to the first airway to block UV light from exiting the airway. 
     Further yet, in some embodiments the UV-reflective material creates a kill zone which decontaminates air flowing through the first and second airway. In some embodiments, a second fan mounted to the ceiling tile and in-line with the first fan. Some embodiments include an air diversion mechanism configured to divert air into the first and second airway. The first and second fan can be configured to rotate in opposite directions. The UV light source may be activated and de-activate remotely to decontaminate airflow through the first and second airway. In some embodiments, the UV light source is a UV-C light source having a wavelength between 200 to 280 nanometers. 
     The present invention further addresses the need to contain the light emitted from a UV-C light source within the chamber to create the kill zone. An extensive system of barriers are utilized within the kill chamber to create a kill zone while precluding the UV-C light from exiting the kill chamber. The baffles may be coated with a reflective material to enhance the effectiveness of UV-C light within the kill chamber. 
     The present invention combines the benefit of savings in electrical energy with savings in HVAC energy costs in one unit. 
     The present invention further includes the benefit of adapting the fan and LED lighting fixture to fit into the foot print of a ceiling tile to permit installation of the fixture in standard ceiling tile configurations, thus maintaining the aesthetics of the ceiling. 
     The present invention also includes the benefit of utilizing an ethernet or Wi-Fi (wireless) connection for remote control of the lighter and fan. 
     The present invention includes the benefit of moving air in an indoor space to provide more efficient heating of the indoor space. 
     The present invention may include the stepped fan blade technology of U.S. patent application Ser. Nos. 14/814,161, 15/043,923 and 15/346,913 which are all incorporated herein by references in their entirety. The stepped-fan blade technology provides the benefit of moving air through the fixture in a more efficient manner, thereby reducing the amount of energy required to operate the unit. The stepped blade technology also enables the fan to operate at a lower speed thus utilizing less energy and reducing noise. Finally, the stepped-fan blade technology disperses the air in a uniform manner. 
     The present invention provides the additional benefit of enhancing the life of all of the electrical fixtures (both the lighting and fan fixture) by reducing the amount of deterioration on each fixture caused by heat. 
     The present invention will also enhance the foot-candles per watt performance of the lighting optics by reducing the temperature of the LED light. The present invention reduces the problem of the LED light degrading over time due to an increase in temperature. 
     This design of the present invention will also enhance the ability to self-clean the lens on the LED face by utilizing air to push any dust or debris away from the lighting fixture. 
     This design of the present invention provides for a competitive advantage in that it permits electrical hook up in one complete unit that used to require two separate electrical connections, one for the fan and one for the light. 
     An added benefit of the present invention provides for a filter to clean the air that comes through the perforations of the intake or the screen of the light fixture—therefore creating a cleaner air environment. 
     The present invention may include the added benefit of connecting the light fixture to an HVAC system which introduces cooled or heated air into the fan of the light fixture to permit the cooled/heated air into the light fixture. 
     The present invention may utilize various color schemes to impact various behavior traits of a person. Color is believed to profoundly affect the productivity of a person. Research has shown that blue color is believed to affect a person&#39;s mind; yellow is believed to affect a person&#39;s emotions; red is believed to affect a person&#39;s body; and green is believed to affect a person&#39;s balance. Utilizing these colors in the present invention, the colors can affect a person&#39;s behavior. The colors scheme may be incorporated into the lens, the troffer shelf or the LED light. 
     Finally, the present invention presents a benefit of elimination of any strobing effect caused by the fan blades interfering with the light distribution. 
     These and other objects and advantages of the present invention, as well as the details of the illustrative embodiment, will be more fully understood from the following specification and drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a sectional view of one embodiment of the combination light and fan fixture depicting a troffer shelf; 
         FIG. 2  is a sectional view of one embodiment of the combination light and fan fixture showing the flow of air; 
         FIG. 3  is a prospective view of one embodiment of the combination light and fan fixture depicting a troffer shelf; 
         FIG. 4  is a sectional view of one embodiment of the combination light and fan fixture of another embodiment depicting an alternative embodiment of a troffer shelf; 
         FIG. 5  is a sectional view of one embodiment of the combination light and fan fixture depicting an angled shell showing the flow of air; 
         FIG. 6  is a sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the combination light and fan fixture depicting another embodiment of the angled deflection mechanism; 
         FIG. 7  is a sectional view of yet another alternative embodiment of the combination light and fan fixture with the LED lighting fixture positioned in an indirect lighting configuration. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention utilizing multiple round grills; 
         FIG. 9A  is a perspective view of the fan grate depicted in  FIG. 9 ; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of an embodiment of the present invention utilizing a single grill and lens; 
         FIG. 10A  is a perspective view of the fan grate depicted in  FIG. 10 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a view of the present invention incorporating multiple fan blades; 
         FIG. 11A  is a view of the present invention incorporating multiple fan blades; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of an axial fan of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a bottom view of one embodiment of the combination light and fan fixture; 
         FIG. 14  is a bottom view of an alternative combination light and fan fixture having 4 LED lights; 
         FIG. 15  is a bottom view of a ceiling tile having intake fans, exhaust vents, and LED lighting; 
         FIG. 16A  is a cross section of a ceiling tile having a fan which directs air into a first and second airway; 
         FIG. 16B  is a cross section of a ceiling tile having a UV light source for irradiating air flow through an airway; 
         FIG. 17  is an exploded view of components of a ceiling tile having two fans, two LED lighting strips, and an upper baffle for defining airways. 
         FIG. 18  is a bottom view of a ceiling tile having intake fans, exhaust vents utilizing a UV light source for irradiating air flowing through the chambers; 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of a ceiling tile having intake fans, exhaust vents utilizing a UV light source for irradiating air flowing through the chambers; 
         FIG. 20( a )  is a cross section of a ceiling tile having a UV light source for irradiating air flow through a chamber, a raw intake, exhaust vents and various baffles; and 
         FIG. 20( b )  is a cross section of a ceiling tile having a UV light source for irradiating air flow through a chamber, a raw intake, exhaust vents and baffles with a reflective material. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Embodiments of the present invention may comprise a combination of a fan and LED light fixture.  FIGS. 1 and 2  show side sectional views of an embodiment of the present invention depicting a troffer shelf  12 .  FIG. 3  shows a perspective view of an embodiment having a troffer shelf. The combination fan  10  may include a troffer shelf  12  which supports at least one LED light fixture  20  and a fan  30 . The fan  30  is supported by a louvered fan support  18 . As shown in  FIG. 3 , the louvered fan support  18  has a lower solid portion  19  and an upper open portion  17  that includes several opening and louvers  60  which direct air from the fan chamber  13  along the troffer shelf  12 . It is not material to the present invention where the solid portion  19  and open portion  17  is located in the fan support  18 . What is important is that there is a solid portion  19  of the fan support  18  that braces the fan  30 , and an open portion  17  that is configured to permit air to flow from the fan chamber  13  to the troffer chamber  16 . The direction of the air flow is not necessarily important to the present invention. What is important is that the fan  30  causes air to flow in the vicinity of an LED light fixture  20 . 
     The troffer shelf  12  may have the same general dimensions as a ceiling tile typically 1 ft.×2 ft., 2 ft.×2 ft. or 2 ft.×4 ft. The LED light fixture  20  is typically positioned along the troffer chamber  16  along the troffer shelf  12  such that light from the fixture  20  is not interrupted by the fan  30 . The LED light fixture may include an LED lamp  22 . The LED light fixture  20  is preferably in the form of a strip which runs the length of the troffer shelf  12 . The LED light fixture  20  is secured to the troffer shelf  12  in such a manner to permit air to flow along a substantial portion of the surface area of the LED lamp  22  and light fixture  20 . The LED light fixture  20  may include a magnetic attachment mechanism to secure the light fixture  20  to the troffer shelf  12 . The magnetic attachment mechanism serves multiple purposes including the ability to detach the LED light fixture  20  from the troffer shelf  12  in a relatively easy fashion. The magnetic attachment mechanism further serves to provide a space between the LED light fixture  20  and troffer shelf  12  for air to flow through which increases the surface area of the LED light fixture  20  that contacts the air. The greater the surface area of the LED light fixture  20  that comes in contact with the air flow, the faster and more efficient the temperature reduction of the LED light fixture. While LED light fixtures are discussed throughout this disclosure, it is understood that other types of lights may be utilized in the invention and benefit from the features of the invention. 
     The fan  30  preferably includes at least an axial fan as shown in  FIG. 12 . Referring back to  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 , there may be more than one fan within the fan area  13 . The blades  32  of the fan  30  force air to move parallel to a shaft  34  about which the blades  32  rotate. Air flow  40  moves axially through the intake of the fan  36  and axially out through the outlet  38  of the fan  30 . The flow of air is generally linear trough the intake  36  and the outlet  38 . The design of the fan  30  is a function of the blade configuration  32  that creates a pressure of differential that produces airflow  40  across the fan blade  32 . The fan  30  may consist of anywhere from 2 to 8 blades. The fan  30  is connected to a motor  51  and typically operates at high speeds. The typical speed of the axial fan of the present invention operates between 1800 to 4000 RPM to produce airflow in the range of 85 to 150 cubic feet per minute. While an axial fan is disclosed in the figures of the invention, it is understood that other types of fans such as a bladeless fan, cross-flow fan, or impeller-type fan may be used as the fan  30  in the embodiments shown in the figures. Any of those types of fans can be utilized without having a detrimental effect on the function and features of the invention. The important feature of the fan  30  is to move and distributes air within the fan area, regardless of the type of fan that was used. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , the configuration of the troffer shelf  12  directs the flow of air from the outlet  38  of the fan  30 . Air flows along the troffer shelf  12  and the troffer baffle  14 , along the LED light fixture  20 . Air passing along the LED light fixture  20  acts to dissipate heat produced by the LED light fixture  20  which reduces the operating temperature of the LED light fixture  20 . In essence, the air flow reduces waste heat produced by the LED fixture  20  by conducting the heat away from the fixture  20 . It is believed that the airflow in the current invention can reduce the temperature of the LED light fixture from approximately 120° F. to approximately 80° F. in the typical environment found in offices, hospitals, retail stores, educational institutions and the like. 
       FIGS. 1, 2 and 3  depict a combination LED light fixture and fan  10 . The air exiting the outlet  38  of the fan  30  is propelled into the fan chamber  13 . The air in the fan chamber  13  as shown in  FIG. 3 , is directed by a diversion mechanism  50  so that the air flows through openings  17  in the fan support  18 . The air flowing through the opening  17  is directed by louvres  60  into the light chamber  16 , along the troffer shelf  12 , to engage the LED light fixture  20 . By directing air from the fan  20  along the troffer shelf  12  causes the air to circulate around the LED light fixture  20  to reduce the temperature of the light fixture  20 . The air flow in the lighting chamber  16  is directed by the troffer baffle  14  through an exit vent  84  formed by the damper  81 . 
     In embodiments of the present invention, there may be a vent and lens bracket  80 . The bracket  80  is affixed to the troffer shelf  12  in such a manner to permit air to flow from the light chamber  16  through an exit vent  84  formed by a damper  81  in the bracket  80 . The vent  84  permits the air heated by LED light fixture  20  to exit the light chamber  16 . The bracket  80  also includes a lens bracket  82 . The lens bracket  82  corresponds with a fan lens bracket  83  to secure a lens  90  in place within the combination LED light and fan  10 . The lens  90  provides a solid surface to assist with containing any air from the fan  30  such that it proceeds along the troffer shelf  12  and the troffer baffle  14  to the LED light fixture  20  and through the vent  84 . A lens  90  is not necessary to the invention. However, the lens  90  typically made of a somewhat flexible translucent plastic material. There is a mounting mechanism  100  that is used to affix the combination LED light fixture and fan to an adjacent ceiling tile or bracket. 
     Some embodiments of the present invention may incorporate the use of color displayed by the lighting system to affect the environment in which the combination LED light and fan fixture  10  may be implemented. Research has shown that different colors appear to affect behavioral traits in humans. For example, the color yellow is believed to influence a person&#39;s self-confidence; the color red is believed to influence a person&#39;s physical body, the color blue is believed to influence a person&#39;s mind and the color green is believed to influence a person&#39;s emotional balance. It is believed that, for example, the combination of a yellow color with a blue color will stimulate a person&#39;s emotional balance and mind. The different color combinations may be incorporated into the present invention in numerous ways. In one embodiment of the present invention, the colors blue, red, yellow or green may be applied to the internal surface of the troffer shelf  12  and/or the troffer baffle  14  by means of paint, insert or other known technique. Alternatively, the lens  90  may comprise of the colors blue, red, yellow or green. The colored lens  90  operates to transmit light of the lens color in an indoor space. Finally, the LED light fixture  20  itself may be configured to generate light in the blue, red, yellow or green spectrums by means of the LED lamp  22 . 
     The air exiting from the fan cavity  16  is directed along an airflow surface on the troffer shelf  12  and troffer baffles  14  air may alternatively be directed through a cooling chamber, which is not shown but functions to cool the fan components, as well as, the LED lighting components. The internal surface of the troffer shelf  12  and troffer baffles  14  may be coated with a Miro-Micro Matt wet paint produced by Alanod. The paint helps to maintain airflow along the surface, as well as, maintain a clean dust-free surface. The airflow  40  has two general components. The air that exits the fan cavity  13  generally has a laminar flow along the airflow surface of the troffer shelf  12 . As the flow of air from the fan  30  extends towards the exterior perimeter of the troffer shelf  12  and troffer baffles  14  through the vent  84 , the flow becomes more turbulent and mixes with the surrounding air. The preferred direction of the air-flow is such that the intake  36  of the fan  30  draws air from the lower portion of a space and distributes the air along the upper portion of the space. Air along the lower portion of an area tends to be cooler than air that resides at the upper portion of an area. The cooler air is pulled into the fan  30  and distributed from the cavity is used to cool and clean the LED light fixture  20 , and/or the LED light bulb  22 . 
     The combination fan of the present invention may utilize the stepped-fan blade design depicted in the pending patent application Ser. No. 14/814,161, 15/043,923 and 15/346,913, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference, in the entirety. The benefits of the stepped-blade design are set-forth in detail in the pending patent applications referenced herein and need not be repeated in this provisional application and are not shown in the drawings. The stepped-fan blade design greatly improves the air flow characteristics of the fan  30 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 9, 9A, 10 and 10A , the fan intake  36  may include decorative perforations and/or a grill  39 . The grills  39  may be of a circular configuration as shown in  FIGS. 9 and 9A . Alternatively, the grill may extend the length of the fan intake  36  as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 10A . The air intake  36  may also include a filter (not shown). Alternatively, the filter may be positioned at the air outlet  38  or at a grill covering the combination fan  39 . The filter serves to clean air flowing through the fan of dust and other fine particles. The filters may be removed for cleaning or replacement on a periodic basis. The embodiments shown in  FIGS. 10 and 10A  are more adapted to accommodate a filter. 
     In some embodiments of the inventions, the combination fan and LED light system further includes an air diversion mechanism  50 . The air diversion mechanism  50  is positioned within the cavity of the fan chamber  13 . The physical configuration of the air diversion mechanism  50  is such that it directs air exiting the fan outlet  38  through the louvered openings  17  or diffuser in the louvered fan holder  18 . In some embodiments, the air diversion mechanism  50  is in the shape of a prism as shown in  FIGS. 1 through 7 . Alternatively, the air diversion mechanism  50  may be in the shape of a pyramid ( FIG. 8 ), cone, pentagon, triangle or other suitable shape to divert air from the fan chamber  13 , through the openings  17  and into the troffer chamber  16  along the LED light fixture  20 . The air diversion mechanism directs air towards opening  17  along louvered vents  60  positioned along the inside fan chamber  13 . The vents  17  may include louvres  60  to assist in directing the air in the desired direction. Positioned within the air diversion mechanism  50  is a ballast housing  51  for LED lighting ballast, drivers and wires. The ballast housing  51  houses the wiring for both the LED lighting system and the fan to allow for a single hook-up to the electrical outlets or connections positioned within the ceiling. 
     The air exiting from the fan cavity  13  is directed along an airflow troffer shelf  12  to the troffer baffle  14 . Air may alternatively be directed through a cooling chamber, which is not shown, but functions to cool the components located in the ballast housing  51 , as well as, the LED lighting components. 
     As shown in  FIG. 2 , air  40  enters the fan  30  and is expelled by the fan blades  32  into the air chamber  13 . Air flow in the fan chamber is generally laminar. Air is forced into the air chamber  13  and is directed by a louvre  60  through an opening in the fan chamber  13  into the light chamber  16 . The air (shown in arrows) has generally a laminar flow along the troffer shelf  12  and troffer baffle  14 . As the flow of air from the fan  30  extends towards the exterior perimeter of the housing in the vent  84 , the flow becomes more turbulent and mixes with the surrounding air such that the air exiting through the damper  81  is more turbulent in nature. The preferred direction of the air-flow is such that the intake  36  of the fan  30  draws air from the lower portion of a space and distributes the air along the upper portion of the space. Air along the lower portion of an area tends to be cooler than air that resides at the upper portion of an area. The cooler air is pulled into the fan  30  and distributed from the cavity is used to cool and clean the LED light fixture  20 , the LED cover  24  and/or the LED light bulb  22 . In an alternative embodiment, the direction of the airflow may be reversed. 
     Turning to  FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 7 , refer to alternative embodiments to the embodiment of  FIGS. 1, 2 and 3 . An alternative embodiment comprises a combination of a fan and LED light fixture.  FIGS. 4, 5, 6 and 7  show views of different embodiments of the present invention. 
       FIG. 4  depicts an alternative design of the troffer shelf and the troffer baffle  14 . In the alternative design, air is propelled from the fan  30  into the fan chamber  13 . The air from the fan  30  is deflected by a diversion mechanism  50 , through the opening  17  and directed by louvres  60  into the light chamber  16 . The louvres  60  are configured to direct the air from the fan along the troffer shelf  12  and along the troffer baffles  14 . By directing air from the fan  30  along the troffer shelf  12  causes the air to circulate along LED light fixtures  20 . The air flow helps to reduce the temperature of the LED light fixture  20 . The air flow is directed by the troffer baffle  14  through an exit vent  84  formed by the damper  81 , in the lens bracket  80 . 
     In  FIG. 4 , the troffer shelf  12  has more of a squared-shape. The troffer shelf  12  and the troffer baffle  14  intersect at generally right angles to each other. The fan  30  is positioned in generally the same position as demonstrated in  FIG. 3 . The fan chamber  13  includes a diverter  50  to direct air exiting the fan  30  through the open portion  17  of the fan chamber  13 . Louvers  60  direct the air passing through the open portion  17  of the fan chamber  30  into the light chamber  16 . Air flows along the troffer shelf  12  and the troffer baffle  14  passed the LED light fixture  20 . Air passing along the light fixture passes along the plurality of LED light fixture  20  to dissipate the heat in the LED light fixture  20 . The air follows a path along the air baffle through the vent  84  out of the light chamber  16 . 
     The bracket  80  includes a damper  81  and lens bracket  82 . The embodiment includes a lens  90  which acts to diffuse the light emitted from the LED lights  20 . There is a mounting mechanism  100  used to affix the combination LED light fixture and fan to an adjacent ceiling tile or bracket. 
     The interior surface of the troffer shelf  12  and troffer baffle  114  may be coated with a Miro-Micro Matt wet paint produced by Alanod. The paint helps to maintain airflow along the surface, as well as, maintain a clean dust-free surface. The paint can be applied in any of the colors discussed above to affect the environment. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 5 and 6 , the combination fan  110  includes a housing  112  which supports at least one LED light fixture  120  and a fan  130 . The housing is the same dimensions as a ceiling tile typically 2 ft.×2 ft. or 2 ft.×4 ft. The LED light fixture  120  is preferably positioned along the periphery of the housing  112  such that light from the fixture  120  is not interrupted by the fan  130 . The LED light fixture includes an LED light bulb  122 . 
     The alternative embodiments of the combination LED light fixture and fan  110  utilize an internal baffle  114 . The internal baffle  114  serves to direct air within the troffer cavity  116  and provide support for the LED lighting  120 . The embodiments depicted in  FIGS. 5 and 6  include a fan  130  that directs air through a fan exit  138  in the fan chamber  113 . The fan chamber  113  includes an air diverter  150  which may take on many different shapes, such as a prism shown in  FIG. 5  or a trapezoidal shape shown in  FIG. 6 . Air from the fan chamber  113  is directed by the diverter  150  through the open portion  117  of the fan support  118 . The air flowing through the open portion  117  of the fan support  118  is directed by louvres  160 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the air is directed by the louvres  160  into the baffle chamber  116  along the baffle  114  across the LED light  120 . The air passing across the LED light  120  is directed by the baffle  114  through the exit vent  184 . 
     In  FIG. 5 , the baffle  114  guides air flowing through the openings  117  in the fan chamber  113  (which is directed by the baffles) along the LED light fixture  120 . The air serves to reduce the temperature of the LED light fixture  120  and extend the life of the fixture  120 . The baffle  114  guides the air flow from the LED light fixture  120  through the exit vent  184 . 
     The fan  130  preferably includes an axial fan. The blades  132  of the axial fan force air to move parallel to a shaft  134  about which the blades  132  rotate. The flow of air  140  is axially through the intake of the fan  136  and axially out through the outlet  138  of the fan  130 . The flow of air is linear trough the intake  136  and the outlet  138 . The design of the fan  130  is a function of the blade configuration  132  that creates a pressure of differential that produces airflow  140  across the fan blade  132 . The axial fan  130  may consist of anywhere from 2 to 8 blades. The axial fan  130  is connected to an energy source (not shown) and typically operates at high speeds. The typical speed of the axial fan of the present invention operates between 1800 to 4000 RPM to produce airflow in the range of 85 to 150 cubic feet per minute. The combination fan of the present invention may utilize the stepped-fan blade design depicted in the pending patent applications referenced above. 
     The fan intake  136  of  FIGS. 5 and 6  may include decorative perforations and/or a grill as shown in  FIGS. 9 and 10 . The air intake  136  may also include a filter (not shown). Alternatively, the filter may be positioned at the air outlet  138  or at a screen covering the combination fan  142 . The filter serves to clean air flowing through the fan of dust and other fine particles. 
     One embodiment of the combination fan and LED light system  110  further includes an air diversion mechanism  150 . The air diversion mechanism  150  is positioned within the fan chamber  113  of the fan  130 . Looking at  FIG. 14 , the air diversion mechanism  150  is in the shape of a prism as shown in  FIGS. 5, 6 and 13 . Alternatively, the air diversion mechanism  150  may be in the shape of a pyramid ( FIG. 14 ), cone, pentagon, triangle or other suitable shape to divert air to the LED components and into the office space. The air diversion mechanism  150  directs air towards vents  117  positioned along the fan cavity  113 . The vents  117  may include louvres  160  to assist in directing the air in the desired direction. Additionally, the air diversion mechanism may have vents to permit a portion of the air circulated by the fan to enter the diversion mechanism  150  to provide a cooling effect on the ballast housing  151 . 
     The air exiting from the fan cavity  116  is directed along an airflow surface on the troffer baffle  114  air may alternatively be directed through a cooling chamber, which is not shown but functions to cool the fan components, as well as, the LED lighting components. The internal surface of the troffer baffle  114  is preferably coated with a Miro-Micro Matt wet paint produced by Alanod. The paint helps to maintain airflow along the surface, as well as, maintain a clean dust-free surface. The airflow  140  has two general components. The air that exits the fan cavity  113  generally has a laminar flow along the airflow surface of the lower housing portion  114 . As the flow of air from the fan  130  extends towards the exterior perimeter of the housing  112  through the vent  184 , the flow becomes more turbulent and mixes with the surrounding air. The preferred direction of the air-flow is such that the intake  136  of the fan  130  draws air from the lower portion of a space and distributes the air along the upper portion of the space. Air along the lower portion of an area tends to be cooler than air that resides at the upper portion of an area. The cooler air is pulled into the fan  130  and distributed from the cavity is used to cool and clean the LED light fixture  120 , and/or the LED light bulb  122 . 
     An embodiment of the combination LED light fixture and fan  200  in which the LED light fixtures  220  are directed toward the ceiling is depicted in  FIGS. 7 and 8 . The combination LED light fixture and fan  200  in  FIG. 7  includes a fan  220 . The fan  230  may include an invented axial fan, or any fan that serves the purpose of distributing air in a relatively quiet fashion. The fan  230  includes an air inlet  236  and air exit  238 . There is a fan chamber  216 . Air is drawn from the indoor environment, through the air inlet  236  and propelled by the fan through the fan exit  238  into the fan chamber  213 . There is a diverter  250  positioned within the fan chamber  213  to direct air from the fan through an open portion  117  of the fan support  218 . The open portion  217  may include louvers  260  to guide the air from the fan chamber  213  into a troffer cavity  216 . 
     The combination LED light fixture and fan  210  has a domed shell  292 . While a domed-shaped shell  292  is shown in some embodiments, any shaped shell may be utilized and still practice the invention. The shell  292  serves as a troffer. The shell  292  is configured to direct air from the troffer cavity  216  along the LED light fixtures  220  and through the exit vent  284 . A lens  290  is positioned on top of the shell  292 . The LED light fixtures  220  may be configured to direct light upward toward the ceiling or downward toward the shell  292 . The shell  292  may be made of a solid material or alternatively a translucent material to permit light to penetrate the shell  292  into the room. The combination LED light fixture and fan  220  is supported from the ceiling by one or more mounting cables  294 . The mounting cables  294  may be configured to accommodate power cables to supply power to the fan  230  and LED light fixtures  220 . 
     The combination LED light fixture and fan as shown in all the embodiments of the present invention may use a hard-wired control mechanism to control both the light  20  and fan  30 . The invention may use an ethernet connection and remote control to activate the fan  30  and LED light fixture  20 . Alternatively, a wi-fi (wireless) connection may be used in connection with a remote control to control the LED light  20  and fan  30 . The remote control feature is configured to adjust the intensity (or color) of the LED light fixture  20  and the speed of the fan  30 . 
     The embodiments of the inventions shown in  FIGS. 1 through 7  show a fan that is independent from the HVAC system of the building in which the combination LED lighting fixture and fan  10  may be installed. However, it is contemplated that the combination LED lighting fixture and fan  10  may be combined with the existing HVAC system in order to distribute the air from the HVAC system through fan chamber  13  and through the light chamber  16 . The combination LED lighting fixture and fan  10  may be the primary source of distribution of the air from the HVAC system or it could be use in a supplemental capacity. If the HVAC system is implemented in connection with the combination LED light fixture and fan  20 , the HVAC system could be connected to the combination LED light fixture and fan  10  at several locations. For example, the HVAC system could be configured to delivery air from the HVAC system into the fan chamber  13  or the light chamber  16  by connecting a duct from the HVAC system to either the fan chamber  13  or the troffer cavity. The fan  30  of combination LED light fixture and fan  10  provides a supplemental air delivery system to augment the HVAC system. 
     As shown in  FIGS. 11 and 11A , the combination fan may include two or more fans  30 . In the multiple fan configuration, it is beneficial that adjacent fans rotate in different directions to provide a more even distribution of air along the fan  30 . It is important to note that the adjacent fans rotate in opposite directions. As shown in  FIG. 11A , the multiple fans may all rotate in the same direction. 
       FIG. 12  depicts a fan  30  and  130  that may be used in embodiments of the inventions. 
     Various aspects of this disclosure may include components which are implemented directly into a ceiling grid, or ceiling tile, as seen for example in  FIG. 15 . It is contemplated that an exemplary ceiling tile  1501  may be sized as 1′×4′; 2′×2′; or 2′×4′, although a person of skill in the art would understand that any appropriately sized ceiling tile may be used in accordance with the present inventions. Moreover, ceiling tile  1501  could be acoustical, fiber, wood, metal, translucent, plastic, sheet rock, or drywall structures as are known to be used in industrial, commercial, or residential environments. 
     In embodiments of the inventions, ceiling tile  1501  may have one or more fans  1502  and vents  1503  cut into the ceiling tile  1501 , sometimes referred to herein as a ceiling panel. Panel cuts may be made or manufactured using waterjet cutting, die cutting, laser cutting, CNC routing, CNC knife cutting, reciprocated knife cutting, or any other known techniques for cutting through tiles. Vents  1503  may take the form of elongated slot(s) extending near the edge of ceiling tile  1501 , although other shapes are also contemplated. For example,  FIG. 15  shows two elongated vents on the ceiling tile  1501 &#39;s top edge, and two additional vents along the bottom edge. A person of skill in the art would understand that additional arrangements are contemplated. Optional LED strips  1504  may be included and may extend between the one or more fans  1502  and vents  1503 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 16A , which is a cut-away side view of embodiments of the inventions, an upper baffle  1610  and one or more lower baffles  1620 ,  1621 , may act together to define one or more airway(s). For example, air may pass from a fan  1502 , along airway(s)  1630 ,  1631  (e.g. a first airway to the left and a second airway to the right), to vents  1503 . Upper baffle  1610  may comprise an apex portion  1615  which is formed in close proximity to fan(s)  1502  and/or  1503 . Embodiments in which an apex portion  1615  extends into proximity with fan(s)  1502  and/or  1503  provide the advantage of improved airflow: that is because apex portion  1615  forces air to split evenly towards the left and right side. In the absence of apex portion  1615 , the direction of rotation of fan(s)  1502  and/or  1503  may lead to uneven air distribution. The apex portion  1615  performs a similar function to air diversion mechanism  50  described above. Indeed, a person of skill in the art would recognize that the air diversion mechanism  50  (See e.g.  FIG. 1 ) may be included in the embodiment of  FIG. 16 . Preferably, fan(s)  1502  take in air, which is released out through vents  1503 . In such an arrangement, fan(s)  1502  act as an air intake and vents  1503  act as an exhaust. A person of skill in the art would recognize that it is also possible for fan(s)  1502  and/or  1503  to be configured to act as an exhaust, rather than an intake. In embodiments where LED strips are included, the flow of air through airways  1630  and  1631  may act to cool the LED strips  1504 . Where two or more fans  1502  are included in an embodiment, it may be desirable, as already described above, to have them rotate in opposite directions relative to one another, e.g. one may spin clockwise while the other spins counterclockwise. 
     Embodiments of the invention further include the functionality of irradiating germs out of the air using UV light. Such embodiments provide the advantage of not only circulating air in an environment, but also killing viral, bacterial, and fungal species which may be living in the environment&#39;s air. It is known the UV light degrades organic materials, but inorganic materials (including metals or glass) are not affected by UV light. Therefore, UV light is effective for reducing organic matter which may be airborne in the air. Reducing airborne contaminants may be important in any environment, but especially in hospitals or schools, which may be particularly susceptible to disease. Regardless of the environment, disinfecting the air of contaminants is helpful to reduce the spread of disease. 
     It is preferable to reduce or eliminate contact with UV lighting because UV light can be harmful to humans and/or animals (particularly over prolonged durations). Embodiments of the invention therefore provide the advantage of positioning a UV light source in the ceiling tile, where the UV rays may be contained in the ceiling tiles. For example,  FIG. 16B  illustrates exemplary UV light source(s)  1640  which are mounted inside the upper baffle  1610  and thus irradiate organic matter residing in air as air flows from the fan to the vent. A person of skill in the art would recognize that UV light sources include a power source and may optionally include an on/off controller (not shown). The UV light source may be activated by an on/off button, or it may be controlled by the remote control feature described further herein. In such an embodiment, a remote control may include the ability to activate or de-activate a UV light source. 
     In some embodiments, light source(s)  1640  may emit UVC light, which has a wavelength of approximately 200 to 280 nanometers. A person of skill in the art would recognize the UVC light is optimal for irradiating airborne contaminants (such as viruses, superbugs, mold, and the like) in most environments. In embodiments of the invention, the upper baffle  1610  and/or the lower baffle  1620 / 1621  may be made of, or coated with, a UV-reflective material. A person of skill in the art would recognize that a UV-reflective material could include a metal, such as stainless steel, or a specialty coating. Lining the airway with a reflective material and/or reflective coating provides the advantage of creating a “kill chamber,” or “kill zone” inside the airways  1630 ,  1631 , where UV rays may bounce to increase their exposure to air passing through the airways  1630 ,  1631 , and by extension, increase the irradiation of organic matter contained in the air. 
     Furthermore, some embodiments of the inventions may include a UV-screen in the form of flange  1650  which is attached to the end of airways  1630  and/or  1631  to shield UV rays from exiting the airways and entering an environment (such as a room or commercial space). In this way, including UV-screen(s)  1650  at the end of an airway Although  FIG. 16B  illustrates a UV source in an embodiment which is built into a ceiling tile, it should be understood that the disclosed UV source and “kill chamber” may be implemented in any of the embodiments disclosed herein. 
       FIG. 17  shows an exploded view of components of the invention. For example, the embodiment of  FIG. 17  shows a ceiling tile  1501  in which there are cut-outs for fans  1502  and vents  1503 . Upper baffle  1610  is shown, sized to fit onto ceiling tile  1501 . Furthermore,  FIG. 17  shows exemplary LED strips  1504  (including power cord) which may be mounted on the ceiling tile  1501 &#39;s underside. 
     Various aspects of this disclosure may include components which are implemented directly into the ceiling grid, or ceiling tile  1801 , as seen for example in  FIG. 18 . It is contemplated that an exemplary ceiling tile  1801  may be sized as 1′×4′; 2′×2′ or 2′×4′, although a person skilled in the art would understand that any appropriately sized ceiling tile may be used in accordance with the present inventions. Moreover, ceiling tile  1801  could be acoustical, fiber, wood, metal, translucent, plastic, sheet rock, or drywall structures as are known to be used in industrial, commercial, or residential environments. Alternatively, the ceiling grid  1801  may take the form of a light fixture that fits within the ceiling tile grid. 
     In embodiments of the inventions, ceiling tile  1801  may have one or more fans  1802  and vents  1803  cut into the ceiling tile  1801 , or positioned in the ceiling grid, sometimes referred to herein as a ceiling panel. Panel cuts may be made or manufactured using waterjet cutting, die cutting, laser cutting, CNC routing, CNC knife cutting, reciprocated knife cutting, or any other known techniques for cutting through tiles. Vents  1803  may take the form of elongated slot(s) extending along the edge of ceiling tile  1801 , although other shapes are also contemplated. For example,  FIG. 18  shows an elongated slot  1803  that runs along the entire length of the tile  1801 . A person of skill in the art would understand that additional arrangements are contemplated. Optional LED strips (not shown) may be included, and may extend between the one or more fans  1802  and vents  1803 . 
     As seen in  FIG. 20A , which is a cut-away side view of embodiments of the inventions, upper baffles  2010 ,  2011  and one or more lower baffles  2020 ,  2021 , may act together to define one or more airway(s). For example, air may pass from a fan  2002 , along airway(s)  2030 ,  2031  (e.g. a first airway to the left and a second airway to the right), to vents  2003 . Upper baffles  2010 ,  2011  may form air deflection mechanism  2015  which is formed in close proximity to fan  2002 . Alternatively, the deflection mechanism  2015  may consist of a separate structure. Embodiments in which an air diversion mechanism  2015  extends into proximity with fan  2002  provides the advantage of improved airflow: that is because the air diversion mechanism  2015  forces air to split evenly towards the air chambers  2030  and  2031 . In the absence of air diversion mechanism  2015 , the direction of rotation of fan  2002  may lead to uneven air distribution. The air diversion mechanism  2015  performs a similar function to air diversion mechanism  50  described above. Indeed, a person of skill in the art would recognize that the air diversion mechanism  50  (See e.g.  FIG. 1 ) may be included in the embodiment of  FIGS. 20A and 20B . Also included within the air flow airways  2030  and  2031  are a series of baffles  2040 ,  2042  and  2044 . The baffles operate to direct the air flowing through the airways  2030  and directs the air through an outlet vent  2003 . The baffles  2040 ,  2042  and  2044  form what is called the kill zone. There may be included in the embodiment shown in  FIG. 20A  are UV light systems  2060 . The UV lights  2060  operate to irradiate fungi, bacteria and viruses form the air circulating through the system  2001 . The UV lights operate within a wavelength of approximately 200 to 280 nanometers. The bulbs used in the UV light are typically referred to the UV-C light spectrum. The UV-C bulbs operate along the specific wave length of ultra-violet lights or light diffusing optical fibers. The UV-C light sources are typically referred to as T-5, T-8 or similarly type of LED lighting fixtures. The embodiment in  FIGS. 20A and 20B  may include an indicator light (not shown) to indicate when the UV-C light source is operating within the chambers  2030  and  2031 . While the UV-C light source is shown in  FIGS. 20A and 20B  the LED light  20  depicted in  FIGS. 1-7, 13 and 14  above could be replaced with the UV-C light source. 
     The UV-C lights  2060 , emitting light along a wavelength of 200 to 280 nanometers, have been deemed to have potentially harmful effects on humans. The baffles  2040 ,  2042  and  2044  operate to maintain the light emitted by the UV-C light fixture  2060  within the fixture so that little, if any, UV-C light is emitted from the fixture through the fans  2002  or the vent  2003 . The baffles  2040 ,  2042  and  2044  may be positioned on the opposite side of the airway  2031 . Preferably, fan(s)  2002  take in air, which is released out through vents  2003 . In such an arrangement, fan(s)  2002  act as an air intake and vents  2003  act as an exhaust. A person of skill in the art would recognize that it is also possible for fan(s)  2002  and/or  2003  to be configured to act as an exhaust, rather than an intake. In embodiments where UV-C lighting is included, the flow of air through airways  2030  and  2031  may act to irradiate the air to eliminate germs, viruses, bacteria, fungi or the like. Where two or more fans  2002  are included in an embodiment, it may be desirable, as already described above, to have them rotate in opposite directions relative to one another, e.g. one may spin clockwise while the other spins counterclockwise. 
     In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 20B , the light source(s)  2060  may emit UVC light, which has a wavelength of approximately 200 to 280 nanometers. A person of skill in the art would recognize the UVC light is optimal for irradiating airborne contaminants (such as viruses, superbugs, mold, bacteria, fungus and the like) in most environments. In embodiments of the invention, the upper baffle  2010  and/or the lower baffle  2020  and  2021  may be made of, or coated with, a UV-reflective material. A person of skill in the art would recognize that a UV-reflective material could include a metal, such as stainless steel, or a specialty coating. Lining the airway with a reflective material and/or reflective coating provides the advantage of creating a “kill chamber,” or “kill zone” inside the airways  2030  and  2031 , where UV rays may be deflected within the kill chamber to increase their exposure to air passing through the airways  2030  and  2031 , and by extension, increase the irradiation of organic matter contained in the air. Furthermore, in the embodiment of  FIGS. 20A and 20B , the baffles  2040 ,  2042  and  2044  located in airways  1630  and/or  1631  operate to (1) shield UV rays from exiting the airways and entering an environment (such as a room or commercial space) and (2) to increase the intensity the air is exposed to the UV-C light emitted by the UV-C light source  2060 , and (3) increase the duration of air flowing through the airway  2030  and  2031  is exposed to the UV-C light. The baffles  2040 ,  2042  and  2044  operate to extend the time that the air flows along the kill zone thus increasing the number of germs that are killed within the fixture. An actual test of a unit utilizing the UV-C light source  1640  was conducted. The study was conducted to verify the unit&#39;s microbial reduction efficacy of aerosolized contaminants. The unit was mounted on the ceiling in a sealed 11′ 10″×11′ 10″×8′1″ (1125 cu·ft) controlled environment room. The unit&#39;s fan and UV lamps were powered on and allowed to warm up over the course of 2-hours as part of conditioning. Aliquots of the microorganisms were added to a pre-sterilized nebulizer reservoir. The testing room was sealed; all equipment activation was performed remotely. The nebulizer was powered to aerosolize the microbial suspension. Following 5 minutes, the UV-C right source and fans were powered on. Samples of the air were collected immediately after unit activation using Bio-aerosol air impinger (Biosampler, SKC, Inc.). The air sample were collected over the course of three minutes. Air samples were collected again following 1 and 2-hours following start. The system was deactivated, and the room was exhausted for 25 minutes before entry for sample retrieval and subsequent analysis. The study was repeated as described with only the fans running and then again with the unit completely powered off. All collected samples were analyzed in triplicate at the minimum as per standard lab operating procedures. Analysis was conducted as per laboratory&#39;s accredited ISO17025: 2005 methodology: bacteria were analyzed as per SM 9215 (APHA 2012) and MS-2 as per EPA 1602. Analysis was conducted using calibrated and/or validated Instruments to traceable standards (NIST). All QC was within method acceptance limit. No general environmental conditions are specified in the standard or have been identified that could affect the test results or measurements. 
     The test results demonstrated the following: 
     The test resulted in a finding that 99.6% of  K. pneumoniae  was eliminated from the air after 1-hour of operation, and 99.998% of  K. pneumoniae  was eliminated from the air after 2-hours of operation. There was a 30% reduction of  K. pneumoniae  from the air after 1-hour of operation when the UV light source was not activated. The tests further found that 98.4% of the MSZ virus was eliminated from the air after 1-hour of operation and 99.6% of the MSZ virus was eliminated after 2-hours of operation. There was a 27.2% reduction of MSZ virus from the air after 1-hour of operation when the UV light source was not activated. 
     While specific combinations of elements are disclosed in specific embodiments, it should be understood that any combination of the different features may be utilized in the combined fan. 
     The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention are illustrating and explanatory thereof, and various changes in the size, shape and materials as well as in the details of illustrated construction may be changed without departing from the spirit of the invention. 
     It is understood that the invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.