COMPONENTE TRANSPORTADOR CONFIGURADO PARA SUPORTAR UM OU MAIS PAINÉIS DE UM SISTEMA DE TETO E SISTEMA DE TETO

Abstract

ROOF SYSTEM AND CARRIER COMPONENT THEREOF. A carrier component for a roof system and / or a roof system that includes the carrier component. The carrier component may include a body portion extending along a first longitudinal axis and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion in a spaced manner. Each of the support members may extend along a second longitudinal axis. Each of the support members may include a distal end, first and second projections located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis, and third and fourth projections located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis, the first and second projections being closer to the distal end of the support members than the third and fourth projections.One or more roof panels can be attached to the carrier component by means of a coupling with the first and second protrusions or the third and fourth protrusions of the support members.

Description

1 / 54 “CARRIER COMPONENT CONFIGURED TO SUPPORT ONE OR MORE PANELS OF A CEILING SYSTEM AND CEILING SYSTEM” CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED REQUESTS

[001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 994,626, filed March 25, 2020, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND

[002] The present invention generally relates to panel systems, such as ceiling or wall systems, and supports for use with such systems. Some panel systems, for example, plank-type ceiling or wall systems, have carrier components that are attached to main beams that support the load of the panel system. The carrier components have some type of attachment feature to which a plurality of panels, such as planks, are attached. However, with existing panel systems there is a lack of available variation, so that generally only one type of panel can be attached to the carrier component at a specific location along it. As a result, existing panel systems allow the creation of a ceiling system with a specific and predefined aesthetic. Thus, there is a need for a more modular panel system that allows the creation of ceiling surfaces with different aesthetics. BRIEF SUMMARY

[003] The present invention is directed to a conveyor component for a ceiling system and / or to a ceiling system comprising the conveyor component. The Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 16 / 150 2 / 54 The carrier component may include a body portion extending along a first longitudinal axis and a plurality of supporting members extending from the body portion. The supporting members may be spaced from each other, and each supporting member may extend along a second longitudinal axis. Furthermore, each supporting member may include a distal end, first and second protrusions located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis, and third and fourth protrusions located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis. The first and second protrusions may form a first mounting element of the supporting members, and the third and fourth protrusions may form a second mounting element of the supporting members. The first and second protrusions may be positioned closer to the distal end of the supporting members than the third and fourth protrusions.In the roof system, one or more roof panels can be coupled to the carrier component by means of engagement with the first and second protrusions (i.e., the first mounting element) of one or more of the support members or with the third and fourth protrusions (i.e., the second mounting element) of one or more of the support members.

[004] In one aspect, the invention may be a carrier component configured to support one or more panels of a ceiling system, the carrier component comprising: a body portion extending along a first longitudinal axis; and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion and arranged in a spaced manner along the axis. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 17 / 150 3 / 54 longitudinal, each of the supporting members extending along a second longitudinal axis and comprising: a distal end; a first projection and a second projection located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis; and a third projection and a fourth projection located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis, the third and fourth projections being located further from the distal end than the first and second projections.

[005] In another aspect, the invention may be a carrier component configured to support one or more panels of a ceiling system, the carrier component comprising: a body portion extending along a first longitudinal axis; and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion and arranged in a spaced manner along the longitudinal axis, each of the support members extending along a second longitudinal axis and comprising: a distal end; a first mounting element configured to support a first panel; and a second mounting element configured to support a second panel, the second mounting element being located further from the distal end than the first mounting element.

[006] In yet another aspect, the invention may be a carrier component configured to support one or more panels of a ceiling system, the carrier component comprising: a body portion extending along a first longitudinal axis; and a first support member extending from Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 18 / 150 4 / 54 body portion along a second longitudinal axis, the first supporting member comprising a distal end, a first projection located on the first side of the second longitudinal axis and a second projection located on the first side of the second longitudinal axis, the first projection being located closer to the distal end than the second projection; and a second supporting member extending from the body portion along a third longitudinal axis, the second supporting member comprising a distal end, a third projection located on the second side of the third longitudinal axis and a fourth projection located on the second side of the third longitudinal axis, the third projection being located closer to the distal end than the fourth projection;and wherein the first supporting member is located on a second side of the second longitudinal axis of the first supporting member and the first supporting member is located on a first side of the third longitudinal axis of the second supporting member, the first and second supporting members being spaced from each other along the first longitudinal axis of the body portion.

[007] In another aspect, the invention may be a carrier component configured to support one or more panels of a ceiling system, the carrier component comprising: a body portion extending along a first longitudinal axis; and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion and arranged in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis, each of the members of Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 19 / 150 5 / 54 support extending along a second longitudinal axis and comprising: a distal end; a first lateral edge extending from the distal end towards the body portion; a first notch formed in the first lateral edge and terminating in a first end that is located at a first distance from the second longitudinal axis; and a second notch formed in the first lateral edge and terminating in a second end that is located at a second distance from the second longitudinal axis, the second distance being greater than the first distance; and wherein each of the first and second notches is configured to receive at least one portion of a panel mounting element for mounting the panel onto the carrier component.

[008] In yet another aspect, the invention may be a roof system comprising: a carrier component extending along a first longitudinal axis and comprising a body portion and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion and arranged in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis, each of the support members comprising a second longitudinal axis; at least one first panel configured to be mounted in a removable manner on the carrier component by engagement with one or more of the plurality of support members of the carrier component such that an uppermost edge of at least one first panel is located in a first axial position along one or more of the plurality of support members; and at least one second Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 20 / 150 6 / 54 panel configured to be mounted in a removable manner on the conveyor component by engagement with one or more of the plurality of support members of the conveyor component such that an uppermost edge of at least one second panel is located in a second axial position along one or more of the plurality of support members; and wherein the first and second axial positions are different from each other.

[009] In another aspect, the invention may be a ceiling system comprising: a carrier component extending along a first longitudinal axis and comprising a body portion and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis; and at least one panel mounted in a removable manner on the carrier component by simultaneous engagement with a first support member of the plurality of support members and a second support member of the plurality of support members, at least a portion of the first and second support members being located within a cavity of at least one panel.

[0010] In yet another aspect, the invention may be a ceiling system comprising: a carrier component extending along a first longitudinal axis and comprising a body portion and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis, each of the support members comprising a second longitudinal axis; and at least one of: a plurality of a first type of panels; and a Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 21 / 150 7 / 54 plurality of a second type of panels; and wherein the carrier component is configured to support the plurality of the first type of panels in a first axial position along the support members and the plurality of the second type of panels in a second axial position along the support members, the second axial position being different from the first axial position.

[0011] In another aspect, the invention may be a ceiling system comprising: a carrier component extending along a first longitudinal axis and comprising a body portion and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis, each of the support members comprising a second longitudinal axis, a first mounting element located in a first axial position along the support member and a second mounting element located in a second axial position along the support member, the first axial position being closer to a distal end of the support member than the second axial position;a plurality of identical panels mounted in a detachable manner on the conveyor component, the plurality of identical panels comprising: a first panel comprising a first mounting element engaging with the first mounting element of a first subset of support members for mounting the first panel on the conveyor component; and a second panel comprising a second mounting element engaging with the second mounting element of a second subset of support members for mounting the second; Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 22 / 150 8 / 54 panel on the conveyor component.

[0012] In yet another aspect, the invention may be a ceiling system comprising: a carrier component extending along a first longitudinal axis and comprising a body portion and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis, each of the support members comprising a second longitudinal axis, a first mounting element located in a first axial position along the support member and a second mounting element located in a second axial position along the support member, the first axial position being closer to a distal end of the support member than the second axial position;at least one panel configured for detachable coupling to the carrier component by means of a coupling with either the first mounting element of one or more of the support members or the second mounting element of one or more of the support members.

[0013] In yet another aspect, the invention may be a ceiling system comprising: a carrier component extending along a first longitudinal axis and comprising a body portion and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion and arranged in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis, each of the plurality of support members comprising a second longitudinal axis; a plurality of panels configured to be mounted in a removable manner on the component. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 23 / 150 9 / 54 conveyor by coupling with one or more of the plurality of support members of the conveyor component; and wherein the plurality of support members is configured to support the plurality of panels in a plurality of different axial positions along the support members.

[0014] In yet another aspect, the invention may be a ceiling system comprising: a carrier component extending along a first longitudinal axis and comprising a body portion and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis; a plurality of panels, each of the panels comprising at least one mounting element configured to engage one or more of the plurality of support members to detachably couple the panel to the carrier component; and wherein the plurality of support members is configured to support the plurality of panels in: (1) a first position in which at least one mounting element is located at a first elevation along a length of the support member;and (2) a second position in which at least one mounting element is located at a second elevation along the length of the support member, the second elevation being different from the first elevation.;

[0015] In yet another aspect, the invention may be a ceiling system comprising: a carrier component extending along a first longitudinal axis and comprising a body portion and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion in a spaced manner along the Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 24 / 150 10 / 54 first longitudinal axis, each of the plurality of support members comprising a distal end, a first mounting element located at a first distance from the distal end and a second mounting element located at a second distance from the distal end, the second distance being greater than the first distance; at least one panel comprising a mounting element; and wherein the at least one panel is configured to be detachably mounted on the carrier component in at least two distinct suspension positions comprising: (1) a first suspension position in which the mounting element of at least one panel engages with the first mounting element of one or more of the plurality of support members; and (2) a second suspension position in which the mounting element of at least one panel engages with the second mounting element of one or more of the plurality of support members.

[0016] Other areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided below. It should be understood that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The present invention will be better understood from the detailed description and accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a background perspective view of a Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 25 / 150 11 / 54 ceiling system installed in an indoor environment; Figure 2 is a top perspective view of a portion of the roof system in Figure 1; Figure 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a conveyor component of the roof system in Figure 1; Figure 4 is a perspective view illustrating the carrier component of the ceiling system of Figure 1 in preparation for attachment to a main beam of the ceiling system of Figure 1; Figure 5 is a side view of the conveyor component attached to the main beam of the roof system in Figure 1; Figure 6 is a close-up front view of area VI in Figure 3; Figure 7A is a front view of the conveyor component of Figure 3 with a plurality of roof panels mounted in a first axial position; Figure 7B is a front view of the conveyor component of Figure 3 with a plurality of roof panels mounted in a second axial position; Figure 7C is a front view of the conveyor component of Figure 3 with a plurality of different roof panels mounted in different axial positions; Figure 8 is a front view of the ceiling system including the main beam, the carrier component attached to the main beam, and a plurality of ceiling panels mounted on the carrier component; Figure 9 is a close-up view of area IX in Figure 8; Figure 10A is a front view of a component. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 26 / 150 12 / 54 conveyor according to a first alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10B is an enlargement of area XB from Figure 10A; Figure 11A is a front view of a conveyor component according to a second alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 11B is an enlargement of area XIB from Figure 11A; Figure 12A is a front view of a conveyor component according to a third alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 12B is an enlargement of area XIIB from Figure 12A; Figure 13A is a front view of a conveyor component according to a fourth alternative embodiment of the present invention, in which a plurality of ceiling panels are mounted on the conveyor component in different axial positions; Figure 13B is a close-up view of area XIIIB from Figure 13A; Figure 14A is a front view of a conveyor component according to a fifth alternative embodiment of the present invention; Figure 14B is a close-up view of area XIVB from Figure 14A; Figure 15A is a front view of a conveyor component according to a sixth alternative embodiment of the present invention; and Figure 15B is a close-up view of area XVB of Figure 15A. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 27 / 150 13 / 54

[0018] The following description of embodiments is merely illustrative in nature and is not intended to limit the invention, its application or uses.

[0019] In the description of the embodiments disclosed in this document, any reference to direction or orientation is merely for convenience of description and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as lower, upper, horizontal, vertical, above, below, up, down, top and bottom, as well as their derivatives (e.g., horizontal, down, up, etc.) are to be interpreted as a reference to the orientation as described or shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are only for convenience of description and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation.Terms such as attached, coupled, affixed, connected, interconnected and the like refer to a relationship in which structures are secured or linked to one another directly or indirectly by means of intervening structures, as well as movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise.

[0020] With reference to Figures 1 and 2, a ceiling system 1000 will be described according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 illustrates the ceiling system 1000 when viewed from below, with the ceiling system 1000 extending from wall to wall and separating a space occupied by a building 30 from a plenum space 40. Figure 2 illustrates an enlarged view of a portion of the Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 28 / 150 14 / 54 ceiling system 1000 when viewed from above the ceiling system 1000. Wiring, ventilation ducts, and other mechanical and similar systems may be located within the plenum space 40 and concealed behind the ceiling system 1000 so that they can be kept out of sight of people in the building-occupied space 30. In the embodiment exemplified, the ceiling system 1000 generally comprises a perimeter structure 10, a plurality of main beams 20, a plurality of carrier components 100 coupled to the main beams 20, and a plurality of panels (i.e., ceiling panels) 200 mounted on the carrier components 100. The bottom surfaces of the panels 200 form an exposed ceiling surface 50 for the building-occupied space 30. Thus, people in the building-occupied space 30 will look up and see the bottoms of the panels 200 forming the ceiling of the building-occupied space 30.

[0021] In the embodiment exemplified, the ceiling system 1000 is a plank system that includes a plurality of main beams 20 positioned in a parallel and spaced arrangement or in a grid-like arrangement. The carrier components 100 are coupled to the main beams 20 and the carrier components 100 support a plurality of panels 200. The perimeter frames 10 can be coupled directly to the walls of the building space. For example, in a rectangular room, the perimeter frame 10 can be attached to each wall to form a rectangular perimeter of the ceiling system 1000. The perimeter frame 10 can also be attached to walls that are located inside or that are Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 29 / 150 15 / 54 project into the building space. The main beams 20 can be attached at their wall ends to the perimeter frame 10. Thus, the perimeter frame 10 can provide support for part or all of the weight of the roof system 1000 in some embodiments. The main beams 20 can be additionally supported by support elements 21 in positions distant from the walls of the building space. The support elements 21 can be, for example, without limitation, wires, cables, tie rods, hooks, braces or the like that extend from the main beams 20 to a structural support of the building, such as the roof or the like.

[0022] In the exemplary embodiment represented in Figure 1, the ceiling system 1000 is a planar system such that the exposed ceiling surface 50 is flat and parallel to the floor of the occupied space 30. In other embodiments, the exposed ceiling surface 50 may be non-planar, inclined, curved, or similar. This can be achieved by modifying a location along the carrier component 100 to which the ceiling panels 200 are attached or by attaching different ceiling panels 200 with different sizes, shapes, or similar to the carrier component 100. Still in other embodiments, the components described in this document can be used to form a wall system such that the carrier components 100 are coupled to the wall so that the panels 200 form wall coverings. Both ceiling and wall systems may have aesthetic, sound control, insulation, or other properties.For simplicity, the invention will be discussed using a ceiling-type system. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 30 / 150 16 / 54 board as an example. Note, however, that the features of the invention also apply to other types of wall systems and other types of ceiling systems. The 200 panels used in building systems according to the invention described in this document may be formed of metal, plastic, fabric, wood, acoustic materials, thermally conductive materials or the like.

[0023] Certain features of the invention will be described with a numerical descriptor (first, second, third, fourth) before the feature name. The numerical descriptor is being used in this document to differentiate similar or identical features from one another. Thus, the use of numerical descriptors such as first, second, third, fourth, etc. in the claims may differ from the use of these terms in the descriptive report. For example, a feature may be referred to as a fourth protrusion in the descriptive report and a second protrusion in the claims. The reason for this is to allow the numerical descriptors to be sequential in the claims.

[0024] As shown in Figure 2, the main beams 20 extend parallel to each other. One or more of the conveyor components 100 are coupled to each of the main beams 20, the process of which will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Each of the conveyor components 100 comprises a body portion 110 and a plurality of support members 150. The panels 200 are mounted on the conveyor components 100 by means of engagement with one or more of the support elements 150. In Figure 2, each of the panels 200 is coupled to portions of two distinct parts of the Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 31 / 150 17 / 54 support members 150. However, this is not necessary in all embodiments. In some embodiments, one or more of the panels 200 may be mounted on a single support member 150 while other panels 200 are mounted on two distinct support members 150 (whether the two distinct support members 150 are adjacent to each other or separated by an intermediate support member 150). Furthermore, in Figure 2 all panels 200 appear to be identical, thus forming the exposed flat roof surface 50. However, the panels 200 may have different heights and widths or similar in other embodiments to create an exposed roof surface that has a non-flat contour or appearance. Additionally, as will be described in detail below, the panels 200 may be configured to couple to the carrier components 100 at different axial positions along the support members 150.This can allow different types of panels to be attached to the same carrier component 100 and can also allow the creation of a non-flat exposed ceiling surface despite using all of the same type of panel 200 to do so.

[0025] With reference to Figures 3-5, the conveyor component 100 will be described in greater detail, along with the manner in which the conveyor component 100 is coupled to the main beam 20. In Figures 3 and 4, only a portion of the conveyor component 100 is illustrated so that certain features of it can be easily seen. A more complete view of the conveyor component 100 is provided in Figures 7A-7C, for example. As mentioned above, the conveyor component Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 32 / 150 18 / 54 100 generally comprises a body portion 110 and a plurality of supporting members 150. The body portion 110 extends along a first longitudinal axis AA. In the exemplified embodiment, the body portion 110 comprises a weft portion 111, a first side wall 112 extending downward from the weft portion 111, and a second side wall 113 extending downward from the weft portion 111. The first and second side walls 112, 113 may be omitted in some embodiments, so that the carrier component 100 may comprise the weft portion 111 and the supporting members 150.

[0026] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the plurality of support members 150 extends downward from the body portion 110 in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis AA of the body portion 110. The weft portion 111 of the body portion 110 comprises a first edge 114 located on a first side of the first longitudinal axis AA and a second edge 115 located on a second side of the first longitudinal axis AA. The plurality of support members 150 is arranged in pairs such that each of the support members 150 extending from the first edge 114 of the weft portion 111 of the body portion 110 is aligned with one of the support members 150 extending from the second edge 115 of the weft portion 111 of the body portion 110.This arrangement ensures that the 200 panels are adequately supported by the 150 support members because each of the 200 panels will be supported by at least one 150 support member extending from it. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 33 / 150 19 / 54 first edge 114 and at least one support member 150 extending from the second edge 115. Thus, in the embodiment exemplified there is a plurality of support members 150 extending from the first edge 114 of the weft portion 111 and a plurality of support members 150 extending from the second edge 115 of the weft portion 111.

[0027] Each of the supporting members 150 extends from the body portion 110 to a distal end 151 of the supporting member 150 along a second longitudinal axis BB. In the embodiment given, the second longitudinal axis BB is approximately perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis AA such that the supporting members 150 extend approximately perpendicularly from the body portion 110. By approximately perpendicular it is meant that the second longitudinal axis BB is oriented at an angle between 85° and 95° relative to the first longitudinal axis AA. The distal end 151 of the supporting member 150 is the end or edge of the supporting member 150 that is located furthest from the body portion 110 of the carrier component 100.The supporting members 150 further comprise a first lateral border 152 extending from the body portion 110 to the distal end 151 and a second lateral border 153 extending from the body portion 110 to the distal end 151. The first and second lateral borders 152, 153 are located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis BB of the supporting members 150. As mentioned previously, the supporting members 150 are arranged as follows... Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 34 / 150 20 / 54 so that they are spaced from each other along the first longitudinal axis AA. Thus, the first lateral edge 152 of each of the support members 150 is spaced from the second lateral edge 153 of an adjacent support member 150 by a gap 140. During the assembly of the panels 200 onto the carrier component 100, the panels 200 can be inserted into the gaps 140.

[0028] With reference to Figures 4 and 5, the weave portion 111 of the body portion 110 of the conveyor component 100 comprises a top surface 116 and a bottom surface 117. In addition, the weave portion 111 of the body portion 110 of the conveyor component 100 comprises a plurality of mounting holes 118 extending through the weave portion 111 from the top surface 116 to the bottom surface 117. The mounting holes 118 are configured to receive fasteners 119 used to attach or mount the conveyor component 110 to the main beams 20.

[0029] In the embodiment exemplified, the main beams 20 are inverted T-grid style beams comprising a weft portion 21, an upper portion (or bulb portion) 22 at an upper end of the weft portion 21, and a flange 23 extending perpendicularly from a lower end of the weft portion 21 in both directions. Thus, the main beams 20 form the shape of an inverted T. A bottom surface of the main beams 20 forms an engagement surface 25 that is configured to fit, engage, or face adjacent conveyor components when the components Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 35 / 150 21 / 54 conveyors 200 are coupled to the main beam 20. The main beams 20 are elongated in a similar manner to the conveyor components 100. Of course, other styles of main beams 20 can be used as part of the ceiling system 1000 described in this document, provided that the conveyor components 200 are configured to be coupled or mounted to them.

[0030] The conveyor components 200 are coupled or mounted to the main beams 20 by placing the top surface 116 of the frame portion 111 of the conveyor component 100 adjacent to or in contact with the engagement surface 25 of the main beam 20. Then, a plurality of fasteners 119 are inserted through the mounting holes 118 in the conveyor component 100 and the main beam 20 to couple the conveyor component 100 to the main beam 20. In the embodiment given, the fasteners 119 are screws, although other fastening elements may be used in other embodiments, including nails, bolts, rivets, staples or the like.Furthermore, although the fasteners 119 are used to couple the conveyor component 100 to the main beam 20 in the embodiment exemplified, the invention should not be thus limited in all embodiments and in certain other embodiments the conveyor component 100 can be coupled to the beam 20 using a mechanical coupling between portions of the conveyor component 100 and the main beam 20. As seen in Figure 5, when the conveyor component 100 is coupled to the main beam 20, the support members 150 extend downwards from the conveyor component 100 and therefore also from the beam. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 36 / 150 22 / 54 main 20. Figure 5 also illustrates the alignment of two of the support members 150 that extend from opposite edges (i.e., the first and second edges 114, 115) of the frame portion 111 of the body portion 110 of the carrier component 100.

[0031] With reference to Figure 6, one of the support members 150 will be described in more detail, it being understood that the description of support member 150 with reference to Figure 6 may be applicable to each of the support members 150 in some embodiments. As mentioned earlier, the supporting members 150 comprise the distal end 151 and the second longitudinal axis BB which extends along a length of the supporting members 150 from the body portion 110 to the distal end 151. The supporting members 150 generally extend perpendicularly from the body portion 110, and thus the second longitudinal axis BB is generally perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis AA of the body portion 110. The supporting members 150 further comprise the first lateral edge 152 which extends from the body portion 110 to the distal end 151 and the second lateral edge 152 which extends from the body portion 110 to the distal edge 151.The first and second lateral edges 152, 153 are located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis BB. In addition, the supporting members 150 comprise a front surface 154 and a rear surface 155 (labeled in Figure 4) opposite the front surface 154.

[0032] Support members 150 are generally thin, flat, plate-type members that extend from Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 37 / 150 23 / 54 of the body portion 110 of the carrier component 100. Thus, a thickness of the support members 150 measured between the front and rear surfaces 154, 155 of the support members 150 can be small, such as between 0.1 mm and 5 mm, or more specifically between 0.1 mm and 3 mm, or even more specifically between 0.1 mm and 2 mm. The support members 150 have a length measured from the body portion 110 to the distal end 151 and a width measured from the first lateral edge 152 to the second lateral edge 153.

[0033] The support member 150 comprises a first mounting element 160 and a second mounting element 180, each of the first and second mounting elements 160, 180 being configured to support one of the panels 200 as described in more detail in this document. Thus, a single panel 200 may be supported entirely by the first mounting element 160 of one of the support members 150, entirely by the second mounting element 180 of one of the support members 150, or collectively by portions of the first mounting elements 160 of multiples of the support members 150, or collectively by portions of the second mounting elements 180 of multiples of the support members 150. In some embodiments, a single panel will not be supported by the first and second mounting elements 160, 180. This will be better understood from the description below with specific reference to Figures 7A-7C.

[0034] In the embodiment exemplified, the first mounting element 160 comprises a first projection 161 located on a first side of the second axis. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 38 / 150 24 / 54 longitudinal BB and a second projection 162 located on a second side of the second longitudinal axis BB. Specifically, the first projection 161 is formed by a first notch 163 formed on the first lateral edge 152 of the support member 152. The first notch 163 extends from the first lateral edge 152 towards the second longitudinal axis BB. The first notch 163 extends from an opening 164 on the first lateral edge 152 to a terminal end 165 that is located between the second longitudinal axis BB and the first lateral edge 152. In the exemplified embodiment, the first notch 163 is angled or inclined relative to the second longitudinal axis BB, although the invention should not be so limited in all embodiments and the first notch 163 may be oriented perpendicularly relative to the second longitudinal axis BB in other embodiments.In the example given, the first notch 163 is angled downwards as it extends further from the first lateral edge 152, so that the farther the first notch 163 is from the first lateral edge 152, the closer the first notch 163 will be to the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150.

[0035] The first projection 161 is formed by a lower boundary or lower edge of the first notch 163. Thus, the first projection 161 is also angled with respect to the second longitudinal axis BB in the embodiment exemplified. Specifically, the first projection 161 extends along a first projection axis CC. The first projection axis CC is angled with respect to Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 39 / 150 25 / 54 second longitudinal axis BB such that a distance measured from the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150 to the first axis of protrusion CC decreases as the distance between the first axis of protrusion CC and the second longitudinal axis BB decreases.

[0036] The second projection 162 is formed by a second notch 166 formed on the second lateral edge 153 of the support member 152. The second notch 166 extends from the second lateral edge 153 in a direction towards the second longitudinal axis BB. The second notch 166 extends from an opening 167 on the second lateral edge 153 to a terminal end 168 which is located between the second longitudinal axis BB and the second lateral edge 153. In the exemplified embodiment, the second notch 166 is angled or inclined relative to the second longitudinal axis BB, although the invention should not be so limited in all embodiments and the second notch 166 may be oriented perpendicularly relative to the second longitudinal axis BB in other embodiments.In the embodiment exemplified, the second notch 166 is angled downwards as it extends further from the second lateral edge 153, so that the farther the second notch 166 is from the second lateral edge 153, the closer the second notch 166 will be to the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150.

[0037] The second protrusion 162 is formed by a lower boundary or lower edge of the second notch 166. Thus, the second protrusion 162 is also angled in relation to the second longitudinal axis BB in the modality Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 40 / 150 26 / 54 exemplified. Specifically, the second prominence 162 extends along a second prominence axis DD. The second prominence axis DD is angled relative to the second longitudinal axis BB such that a distance measured from the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150 to the second prominence axis DD decreases as the distance between the second prominence axis DD and the second longitudinal axis BB decreases. The first and second prominence axes CC, DD converge as they extend from their respective first and second lateral edges 152, 153 toward the second longitudinal axis BB of the supporting limb 150. The first and second prominence axes CC, DD intersect at an oblique angle in the exemplified embodiment, which may be an obtuse angle in some embodiments.

[0038] In the embodiment given, the second mounting element 180 comprises a third protrusion 181 located on the first side of the second longitudinal axis BB and a fourth protrusion 182 located on the second side of the second longitudinal axis BB. Thus, the first and third protrusions 161, 181 are located on the first side of the second longitudinal axis BB and the second and fourth protrusions 162, 182 are located on the second side of the second longitudinal axis BB. As will be described further below, the panels 200 can be mounted on the conveyor component 200 by means of engagement with the first and second protrusions 161, 162 or by means of engagement with the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182. Generally, a single panel will not engage with one of the first and second protrusions 161, 162 and one of the third and Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 41 / 150 27 / 54 fourth protrusions 181, 182.

[0039] The third projection 181 is formed by a third notch 183 formed on the first lateral edge 152 of the support member 152. The third notch 183 extends from the first lateral edge 152 in a direction towards the second longitudinal axis BB. The third notch 183 extends from an opening 184 on the first lateral edge 152 to a terminal end 185 which is located between the second longitudinal axis BB and the first lateral edge 152. In the exemplified embodiment, the third notch 183 is angled or inclined relative to the second longitudinal axis BB, although the invention should not be so limited in all embodiments and the third notch 183 may be oriented perpendicularly relative to the second longitudinal axis BB in other embodiments.In the example given, the third notch 183 is angled upward as it extends further from the first lateral edge 152, so that the farther the third notch 183 is from the first lateral edge 152, the farther the third notch 183 is from the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150.

[0040] The third projection 181 is formed by a lower boundary or lower edge of the third notch 183. Thus, the third projection 181 is also angled with respect to the second longitudinal axis BB in the embodiment exemplified. Specifically, the third projection 161 extends along a third projection axis EE. The third projection axis EE is angled with respect to the second longitudinal axis BB, such that a distance Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 42 / 150 28 / 54 measured from the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150 to the third axis of prominence EE increases as the distance between the third axis of prominence EE and the second longitudinal axis BB decreases.

[0041] The fourth projection 182 is formed by a fourth notch 186 formed on the second lateral edge 153 of the support member 152. The fourth notch 166 extends from the second lateral edge 153 in a direction towards the second longitudinal axis BB. The fourth notch 186 extends from an opening 187 on the second lateral edge 153 to a terminal end 188 which is located between the second longitudinal axis BB and the second lateral edge 153. In the exemplified embodiment, the fourth notch 186 is angled or inclined relative to the second longitudinal axis BB, although the invention should not be so limited in all embodiments and the fourth notch 186 may be oriented perpendicularly relative to the second longitudinal axis BB in other embodiments.In the embodiment exemplified, the fourth notch 186 is angled upward as it extends further from the second lateral edge 153, so that the farther the fourth notch 186 is from the second lateral edge 153, the farther the fourth notch 186 is from the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150.

[0042] The fourth projection 182 is formed by a lower boundary or lower edge of the fourth notch 186. Thus, the fourth projection 182 is also angled with respect to the second longitudinal axis BB in the embodiment exemplified. Specifically, the fourth projection 182 extends along a fourth projection axis FF. The Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 43 / 150 29 / 54 The fourth axis of protrusion FF is angled relative to the second longitudinal axis BB, such that a distance measured from the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150 to the fourth axis of protrusion FF increases as the distance between the fourth axis of protrusion FF and the second longitudinal axis BB decreases. The third and fourth axes of protrusion EE, FF converge as they extend from their respective first and second lateral edges 152, 153 toward the second longitudinal axis BB of the supporting limb 150. The third and fourth axes of protrusion EE, FF intersect at an oblique angle in the embodiment exemplified, which may be an obtuse angle in some embodiments.

[0043] Although in the embodiment exemplified the first and second mounting elements 160, 180 of the support members 150 comprise protrusions, the invention should not be so limited in all embodiments. The first and second mounting elements 160, 180 can be any structure or mechanical features that facilitate the mounting of the panels 200 to the support members 150 of the conveyor component 100. Thus, the mounting elements 160, 180 can be protrusions, such as protrusions extending from the side edges 152, 153 of the support members 150 that engage openings or protrusions in the panels 200. The mounting elements 160, 180 can be openings that receive protrusions extending from the side walls of the panels 200. Furthermore, the above is not intended to be an exhaustive list of the types of features that can form the first and second mounting elements 160, 180 of the support members 150. Again, Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 44 / 150 30 / 54 any structure, feature or similar that allows the panels 200 to be mounted on the support members 150 can form the first and second mounting elements 160, 180.

[0044] As seen in the figures, each of the first, second, third, and fourth notches 163, 166, 183, 186 extend through the supporting member 150 from the front surface 154 to the back surface 155. Furthermore, each of the first, second, third, and fourth notches 163, 166, 183, 186 has its own distinct opening in one of the first and second lateral edges 152, 153. Thus, there is a central portion 169 of the first lateral edge 152 located between the opening 164 of the first notch 163 and the opening 184 of the third notch 183. Similarly, there is a central portion 170 of the second lateral edge 153 located between the opening 167 of the second notch 166 and the opening 187 of the fourth notch 186. The first and third notches 163, 183 are slots. distinct elongated grooves formed on the first lateral edge 152 and the second and fourth notches 166, 186 are distinct elongated grooves formed on the second lateral edge 153.

[0045] Although in the embodiment exemplified the first, second, third and fourth projections 161, 162, 181, 182 are formed by the first, second, third and fourth notches 163, 166, 183, 186, the invention should not be thus limited in all embodiments. In other embodiments, the first, second, third and fourth projections 161, 162, 181, 182 may be formed by protrusions extending from the first and / or second lateral edges 152, 153 of the supporting members 150 Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 45 / 150 31 / 54 instead of notches formed on the first and / or second lateral edges 152, 153. Thus, the first, second, third and fourth projections 161, 162, 181, 182 may be any surface that is elongated in a direction that is perpendicular or oblique to the second longitudinal axis BB of the support member 150 so that it is configured for mating engagement with the various mounting features of the panels 200.

[0046] As will be discussed in more detail below with reference to Figures 7A and 7B, in the exemplary embodiment, the first and second protrusions 161, 162 of the first mounting element 160 are configured to engage with a first type of panel to support the first type of panel and the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 of the second mounting element 180 are configured to engage with a second type of panel to support the second type of panel. In the exemplary embodiment, the first and second protrusions 161, 162 of the first mounting element 160 are unable (i.e., prevented from) engaging with the second type of panel and the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 of the second mounting element 180 are unable (i.e., prevented from) engaging with the first type of panel.In the embodiment exemplified, this is achieved by having the first and second protrusions 161, 162 angled downwards from their respective first and second lateral edges 152, 153 towards the second longitudinal axis BB, while the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 are angled upwards from their respective first and second lateral edges 152, 153 towards the second longitudinal axis. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 46 / 150 32 / 54 BB. The first type of panels is configured with mounting elements or features that can engage with the first and second downward-angled protrusions 161, 162, while the second type of panels can be configured with mounting elements or features that can engage with the third and fourth upward-angled protrusions 181, 182.

[0047] The first and second projections 161, 162 are aligned along a length of the supporting member 150 such that a first transverse axis GG that is perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis BB of the supporting member 150 intersects each of the first and second projections 161, 162. The third and fourth projections 181, 182 are aligned along a length of the supporting member 150 such that a second transverse axis HH that is perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis BB of the supporting member 150 intersects each of the third and fourth projections 181, 182. The first transverse axis GG is located closer to the distal end 151 of the supporting member 150 than the second transverse axis HH.

[0048] Thus, the first and second protrusions 161, 162 are located closer to the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150 (and farther from the body portion 110 of the carrying component 100) than the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182. Specifically, in the embodiment exemplified, a maximum distance D1 measured from each of the first and second protrusions 161, 162 to the distal end 151 of the supporting limb 150 is less than a maximum distance D2 measured from each of the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 to the Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 47 / 150 33 / 54 distal end 151 of the supporting member 150. In fact, in the embodiment exemplified, the maximum distance D1 is less than a minimum distance measured between the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 and the distal end 151 of the supporting member 150. Thus, if a panel is engaged with the first and second protrusions 161, 162, it will hang lower within the interior space than if the panel is engaged with the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 (assuming, of course, that the panels are identical in size / height / length).

[0049] Furthermore, in the embodiment exemplified, one end of the first and second projections 161, 162 that is located closest to the second longitudinal axis BB is located at a distance D3 from the second longitudinal axis BB. One end of the third and fourth projections 181, 182 that is located closest to the second longitudinal axis BB is located at a distance D4 from the second longitudinal axis BB. Thus, the first and second notches 163, 166 extend deeper into the supporting member 150 than the third and fourth notches 183, 186. This may be an additional feature that ensures that certain panel types are able to engage with the first and second projections 161, 162, but unable to engage with the third and fourth projections 181, 182, and vice versa.

[0050] Returning to Figure 7A, the conveyor component 100 is illustrated with two panels 200a mounted on it. In this embodiment, both panels 200a are identical in all respects. Thus, the panels 200a have identical height, width, length, and features. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 48 / 150 34 / 54 configured for mounting on the conveyor component 100. Thus, the panels 200a have a bottom wall 201a that forms a bottom surface of the panels 200a, a first side wall 202a extending from the bottom wall 201a towards the conveyor component 100, and a second side wall 203a extending from the bottom wall 201a towards the conveyor component 100. The first and second side walls 202a, 203a are spaced from each other so that a cavity 204a is formed by the inner surface of the first and second side walls 202a, 203a and an upper surface of the bottom wall 201a. Each of the panels 200a comprises a mounting element 205a that engages with the first mounting element 160 of one or more of the support members 150 of the conveyor component 100.More specifically, the mounting element 205a comprises a first flange 206a extending from a distal end of the first side wall 202a and a second flange 207a extending from a distal end of the second side wall 203a.

[0051] Panels 200a are mounted on the conveyor component 100 by coupling between the first flange 206a of panel 200a with the first protrusion 161 of one of the support members 160 and by coupling between the second flange 207a of panel 200a with the second protrusion 162 of one of the support members 160. Specifically, in this embodiment, the first and second flanges 206a, 207a extend inwards towards the cavity 204a and downwards towards the bottom wall 201a at an angle relative to the first and second side walls 202a, 203a from where they Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 49 / 150 35 / 54 extends. As a result, the first and second flanges 206a, 207a are angled in the same direction as the first and second notches 163, 166 and the first and second protrusions 161, 162 to allow proper engagement between the first and second flanges 206a, 207a of panel 200a and the first and second protrusions 161, 162 of the support members 150. Because the first and second protrusions 206a, 207a extend inward and downward as described, they are unable to engage with the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 of the support members 150. Specifically, any attempt to mount panels 200a onto the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 will not result in an acceptable assembly of panels 200a onto the carrier component 100 because the first and second flanges 206a, 207a will not engage in a conjugate manner with the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 in an acceptable way.

[0052] In this embodiment, panel 200a is coupled to two different support members 150. However, in other embodiments, panels with a smaller width may be used so that they can be coupled to the first and second projections 161, 162 of the same support member 150 (see, for example, panel 200d shown in Figure 7C). In the embodiment exemplified, panels 200a are coupled to two adjacent support members 150. Specifically, panels 200a are coupled to the first projection 161 of one support member 150 and to the second projection 162 of another support member 150. In other embodiments, panels 200a may have an even greater width and be coupled to two support members 150 that are more widely spaced, so that support members Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 50 / 150 36 / 54 additional 150 are positioned between the two support members 150 to which panel 200a is attached.

[0053] As seen in Figure 7A, where panels 200a are coupled to two adjacent support members 150, both support members 150 are located within the cavity 204a defined by panel 200a. This is because panels 200a are attached to the outer surfaces of the two support members 150 that are furthest from each other. To put it another way, the first side wall 202a of panel 200a lies in a foreground plane P1-P1 and the second side wall 203a of panel 200a lies in a background plane P2-P2, whereby the two support members 150 to which panel 200a is mounted and any other support members located between the two support members 150 to which panel 200a is mounted are located entirely between the foreground and background planes P1-P1, P2-P2.As stated previously, the bottom surfaces of the back walls 201a of the panels 200a collectively form the exposed ceiling surface, with the bottom surface of each of the panels 200a forming a portion of the exposed ceiling surface.

[0054] With reference to Figure 7B, another embodiment is represented in which two panels 200b are coupled to the conveyor component 100. In this embodiment, the panels 200b comprise a back wall 201b, first and second side walls 202b, 203b extending from the back wall 201b in a direction towards the conveyor component 100, and a mounting element 205b comprising a first flange 206b and a second Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 51 / 150 37 / 54 flange 207b. Panels 200b may differ from panels 200a in one characteristic. Thus, panels 200a may be described as a first type of panel and panels 200b may be described as a second type of panel, so that the first and second types of panels differ from each other in one characteristic. This characteristic may be a height, length, width, appearance, texture, or similar of the panels in some embodiments. In other embodiments, the difference in at least one characteristic may be a difference in a structure of the mounting elements 205a, 205b.

[0055] More specifically, as described above, the first and second flanges 206a, 207a of panels 200a extend inward and downward from the first and second side walls 202a, 203a. In contrast, the first and second flanges 206b, 207b of panels 200b extend inward and upward from the first and second side walls 202b, 203b. Thus, the first and second flanges 206b, 207b (i.e., mounting elements 205b) of panels 200b are structurally different from the first and second flanges 206a, 207a (mounting elements 205a) of panels 200a. As a result, the first and second flanges 206b, 207b of the panels 200b extend at an angle that is configured for proper engagement with the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 of the support members 150. However, the first and second flanges 206b, 207b are unable to engage in a conjugate manner with the first and second protrusions 161, 162 of the support members 150.Thus, the first and second protrusions 161,. 162 are configured to prevent and prohibit coupling with the Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 52 / 150 38 / 54 mounting element 205b of panels 200b and the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 are configured to prevent and prohibit engagement with mounting element 205a of panels 200a.

[0056] In some embodiments, the 1000 ceiling system may comprise only 200a panels such that all 200a panels are identical. In some embodiments, the 1000 ceiling system may comprise only 200b panels such that all panels are identical. In such embodiments, the exposed ceiling surface of the 1000 ceiling system will be flat. In still other embodiments, the 1000 ceiling system may comprise one or more 200a panels and one or more 200b panels and possibly one or more different types of additional panels that differ from the 200a, 200b panels in one or more characteristics, which may include height, width, length, or the like. In such embodiments, the 1000 ceiling system may have a non-flat exposed ceiling surface that is formed by 200a ceiling panels with different heights.

[0057] With reference to Figure 7C, an embodiment of a roof system 1000c is illustrated, having one of the panels 200a, one of the panels 200b, and additional panels 200c and 200d mounted on the carrier component 100c. In this embodiment, panel 200a is coupled to two of the support members 150 by means of a coupling with the first protrusion 161 of one of the support members 150 and the second protrusion 162 of the other support member 150. Panel 200b is coupled to two of the support members 150 by means of a coupling with the third protrusion 181 of one of the support members 150 and the Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 53 / 150 39 / 54 fourth protrusion 182 of the other support member 150. Panel 200c is coupled to two of the support members 150 by means of a coupling with the first protrusion 161 of one of the support members 150 and the second protrusion 162 of the other of the support members 150. Finally, panels 200d are coupled to one of the support members 150 by means of a coupling with the first and second protrusions 161, 162 of the support member 150. Thus, the embodiment of Figure 7C is intended to illustrate the various ways in which different types of panels 200a-d can be mounted on the carrier component 100.

[0058] For example, panels 200a, 200c, 200d are illustrated mounted on the carrier component 100 in an adjacent manner. Furthermore, each of the panels 200a, 200c, 200d is coupled to the first and second projections 161, 162 of several of the support members 150 so that panels 200a, 200c, 200d are coupled to the support members 150 in the same position along the support members 150. However, panels 200a, 200c have a greater width than panel 200d. Additionally, panel 200c has a greater height than panels 200a, 200d. As a result, using these different types of panels that differ in at least one characteristic (height, width, length), the exposed ceiling can be created to have a different aesthetic.

[0059] Furthermore, in Figure 7C, panel 200b is adjacent to one of the panels 200d. Panel 200b is mounted on the carrier component 100 by means of engagement with the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 of two of the support members 150 and panel 200d is mounted on the component Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 54 / 150 40 / 54 conveyor 100 by means of engagement with the first and second protrusions 161, 162 of one of the support members 150. Thus, an uppermost edge 209b of panel 200b is located in a first axial position along the support member(s) 150 on which it is mounted. Furthermore, an uppermost edge 209d of panel 200d is located in a second axial position along the support member(s) 150 on which it is mounted. In the embodiment shown, the second axial position is closer to the distal end 151 of the supporting element(s) 150 than the first axial position because the first and second projections 161, 162 are located closer to the distal end 151 of the supporting member 150 than the third and fourth projections 181, 182. In the embodiment shown, the bottom surfaces of panels 200b, 200d are aligned and flat. Thus, in this example, panel 200b has a greater height than panel 200d.However, if panels 200b, 200d were the same height (measured from the back wall to the most distal end of panel 200b, 200d formed by the side walls or flanges), panel 200d would extend lower (i.e., further into the interior space) than panel 200b by virtue of being coupled to the first and second projections 161, 162 which are lower on the support member 150 than the third and fourth projections 181, 182.

[0060] With reference to Figures 8 and 9, the ceiling system 1000 is illustrated showing the main beam 20, the carrier component 100 mounted on the main beam 20 and two of the panels 200a mounted on the carrier component. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 55 / 150 41 / 54 100. In a fully assembled / installed ceiling system 1000, all support members 150 of the conveyor component 100 will be covered by panels 200a (or panels 200a in combination with any other type of panel that is configured to be coupled / mounted to the conveyor component 100 as described in this document). In Figures 8 and 9, the first and second flanges 206a, 207a of panel 200a are nested within the first and second notches 163, 166 of support member 150 so as to be engaged with the first and second protrusions 161, 162 of support member 150. In other embodiments, one or more of the panels 200a may have mounting elements that nest within the third and fourth notches 183, 186 so as to be engaged with the third and fourth protrusions 181, 182 of support member 150. Furthermore, in the embodiment exemplified, the panels 200a are mounted on two adjacent support members 150.In other embodiments, the 200a panels can be mounted on any two of the 150 support members even if they are not adjacent, or the 200a panels can be mounted on a single one of the 150 support members, as described above in this document with particular reference to Figure 7C.

[0061] Figures 10A-15B illustrate alternative embodiments for conveyor components according to the invention described in this document. The conveyor components shown in Figures 10A-15B are identical to conveyor component 100 described in this document above, except for the differences that are specifically described and / or explicitly shown in the drawings. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 56 / 150 42 / 54 Thus, for features of the conveyor components shown in Figures 10A-15B that are not described in detail, it should be understood that the description of conveyor component 100 is applicable. The features of the conveyor components in Figures 10A-15B will be numbered in a manner identical to the features of conveyor component 100 described above, except that a suffix aah will be used consistently in each embodiment. Thus, the corresponding components will be readily appreciated and understood.

[0062] Figures 10A and 10B illustrate a carrier component 100a comprising a body portion 110a and a plurality of support members 150a extending downward from the carrier component 100a in a spaced manner. The carrier component 100a is identical to the carrier component 100, except with respect to the configuration of the notches and protrusions of the support member 150a, as further described below.

[0063] The supporting member 150a extends from the body portion 110a to a distal end 151a along a longitudinal axis II. The supporting member 150a comprises a first lateral edge 152a and a second lateral edge 153a located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis II. The supporting member 150a comprises a first notch 163a in the first lateral edge 152a defining a first protrusion 161a, a second notch 166a in the second lateral edge 153a defining a second protrusion 162a, a third notch 183a in the first lateral edge 152a defining a third protrusion 181a, and a fourth notch 186a in the second lateral edge 153a that Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 57 / 150 43 / 54 defines a fourth projection 182a. As with the carrier component 100, in this embodiment, the first and second notches 163a, 166a and therefore also the first and second projections 161a, 162a are axially aligned along the support member 150a. Similarly, the third and fourth notches 183a, 186a and therefore also the third and fourth projections 181a, 182a are axially aligned along the support member 150a.

[0064] However, in this embodiment, the first and third protrusions 161a, 181a are angled in the same direction (upward, away from the distal end 151a as they extend further from the first lateral edge 152a) and the second and third protrusions 162a, 182a are angled in the same direction (upward, away from the distal end 151a as they extend further from the second lateral edges 153a). In such an embodiment, the same panel can be coupled to the first and second protrusions 161a, 162a or to the third and fourth protrusions 181a, 182a, which was not possible with the embodiment described above.

[0065] Figures 11A and 11B illustrate a carrier component 100b comprising a body portion 110b and a plurality of support members 150b extending downward from the carrier component 100b in a spaced manner. The carrier component 100b is identical to the carrier component 100, except with respect to the configuration of the notches and protrusions of the support member 150b, as further described below.

[0066] The supporting member 150b extends from the body portion 110b to a distal end 151b to Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 58 / 150 44 / 54 along a longitudinal axis JJ. The support member 150b comprises a first lateral edge 152b and a second lateral edge 153b located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis JJ. The support member 150b comprises a first notch 163b in the first lateral edge 152b defining a first projection 161b, a second notch 166b in the second lateral edge 153b defining a second projection 162b, a third notch 183b in the first lateral edge 152b defining a third projection 181b, and a fourth notch 186b in the second lateral edge 153b defining a fourth projection 182b. As with the carrier component 100, in this embodiment, the first and second notches 163b, 166b and therefore also the first and second projections 161b, 162b are axially aligned along the support member 150b.Similarly, the third and fourth notches 183b, 186b, and therefore also the third and fourth projections 181b, 182b, are axially aligned along the supporting member 150b.

[0067] However, in this embodiment, the notches 163b, 166b, 183b, 186b have a different shape, such that there is a stop protrusion 171b located at the end of each of the projections 161b, 162b, 181b, 182b adjacent to the opening of the respective of the notches 163b, 166b, 183b, 186b. Each of the stop protrusions 171b extends above one of the projections 161b, 162b, 181b, 182b adjacent to one of the first and second lateral edges 152b, 153b of the supporting member 150b. Thus, the stop protrusions 171b can help prevent a panel that is mounted on the conveyor component 100b from easily detaching from it without deliberate interaction of the Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 59 / 150 45 / 54 user.

[0068] Figures 12A and 12B illustrate a carrier component 100c comprising a body portion 110c and a plurality of support members 150c extending downward from the carrier component 100c in a spaced manner. The carrier component 100c is identical to the carrier component 100, except with respect to the configuration of the notches and protrusions of the support member 150c, as further described below.

[0069] The supporting member 150c extends from the body portion 110c to a distal end 151c along a longitudinal axis KK. The supporting member 150c comprises a first lateral edge 152c and a second lateral edge 153c located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis KK. The supporting member 150c comprises a first notch 163c in the first lateral edge 152c defining a first protrusion 161c, a second notch 166c in the second lateral edge 153c defining a second protrusion 162c, a third notch 183c in the first lateral edge 152c defining a third protrusion 181c, and a fourth notch 186c in the second lateral edge 153c defining a fourth protrusion 182c. As with the carrier component 100, in this embodiment, the first and second notches 163c, 166c and therefore also the first and second projections 161c, 162c are axially aligned along the support member 150c.Similarly, the third and fourth notches 183c, 186c, and therefore also the third and fourth projections 181c, 182c, are axially aligned along the supporting member 150c.

[0070] However, while in the modalities Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 60 / 150 In the previous embodiments 46 / 54, the projections were all inclined with respect to the longitudinal axis of the support member; in this embodiment, projections 161c, 162c, 181c, 182c are oriented perpendicularly with respect to the longitudinal axis KK of support member 150c. Furthermore, in this embodiment, as in the embodiments of Figures 10A-11B, the same type of panel can be mounted on the first and second projections 161c, 162c of one or more support members 150c, or on the third and fourth projections 181c, 182c of one or more support members 150c. This is best represented in Figure 12A. The reason why the same type of panel can be mounted on the first and second protrusions 161c, 162c, or on the third and fourth protrusions 181c, 182c is because the first and third protrusions 161c, 181c and the second and fourth protrusions 162c, 182c all have the same structure and orientation.Thus, if the mounting elements on the panels are able to engage in a combined manner on the first and second protrusions 161c, 162c, they will equally be able to engage in a combined manner on the third and fourth protrusions 181c, 182c.

[0071] Specifically, Figure 12A shows a first type of panel 200e mounted on the conveyor component 100c and a second type of panel 200f mounted on the conveyor component 100c. The first type of panel 200e is illustrated as being mounted on the conveyor component 100c by means of engagement with the first protrusion 161c of one of the support members 150c and the second protrusion 162c of another support member 150c. Furthermore, another of the first type of panel 200e is illustrated as being mounted on the conveyor component 100c by means of engagement with the third protrusion 181c of one of the Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 61 / 150 47 / 54 support members 150c and the fourth projection 182c of another support member 150c. Thus, the first type of panel 200e can be mounted on the carrier component 100c at two different heights, creating a non-flat exposed ceiling surface. This is because the first two types of panel 200e are completely identical in all respects, but hung at different axial positions along the support members 150c of the carrier component 100c. Thus, using the same carrier component 100c and a plurality of identical panels (i.e., the first type of panel 200e), an enhanced aesthetic can be created.

[0072] Figure 12A also illustrates the second type of panel 200f coupled to the support members 150c of the carrier component 100c in two different axial positions along the support members 150c. The difference between the second type of panel 200f compared to the first type of panel 200e is that the second type of panel 200f is mounted on a single one of the support members 150c instead of two of the support members 150c. Otherwise, the same concept is being shown, which is that the second type of panel 200f can be mounted on the carrier component 100c in two different axial positions along a length of the support members 150c.

[0073] Figures 13A and 13B illustrate a carrier component 100d comprising a body portion 110d and a plurality of support members 150d extending downward from the carrier component 100d in a spaced manner. The carrier component 100d is Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 62 / 150 48 / 54 identical to carrier component 100, except with respect to the configuration of the notches and protrusions of support member 150d, as further described below.

[0074] The supporting member 150d extends from the body portion 110d to a distal end 151d along a longitudinal axis LL. The supporting member 150d comprises a first lateral edge 152d and a second lateral edge 153d located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis LL. The supporting member 150d comprises a first notch 163d in the first lateral edge 152d that defines a first protrusion 161d, a second notch 166d in the second lateral edge 153d that defines a second protrusion 162d, a third notch 183d in the first lateral edge 152d that defines a third protrusion 181d, and a fourth notch 186d in the second lateral edge 153d that defines a fourth protrusion 182d. As with the carrier component 100, in this embodiment, the first and second notches 163d, 166d and therefore also the first and second projections 161d, 162d are axially aligned along the support member 150d.Similarly, the third and fourth notches 183d, 186d, and therefore also the third and fourth projections 181d, 182d, are axially aligned along the supporting member 150d.

[0075] In this embodiment, the first, second, third, and fourth projections 161d, 162d, 181d, 182d are all oriented perpendicularly to the longitudinal axis LL of the support member 150d. However, the main difference between this embodiment and that of the carrier component 100c, for example, is that the first and second notches 163d, 166d have a smaller height (measured in a Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 63 / 150 49 / 54 direction towards the longitudinal axis LL) than the third and fourth notches 183d, 186d. Thus, in some embodiments, certain panels may not be able to be mounted on the first and second protrusions 161d, 162d if their mounting elements cannot be inserted into the first and second notches 163d, 166d.

[0076] Figures 14A and 14B illustrate a carrier component 100e comprising a body portion 110e and a plurality of support members 150e extending downward from the carrier component 100e in a spaced manner. The carrier component 100e is identical to the carrier component 100, except with respect to the configuration of the notches and protrusions of the support member 150e, as further described below.

[0077] The supporting member 150e extends from the body portion 110e to a distal end 151e along a longitudinal axis MM. The supporting member 150e comprises a first lateral edge 152e and a second lateral edge 153e located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis MM. The supporting member 150e comprises a first notch 163e in the first lateral edge 152e defining a first protrusion 161e, a second notch 166e in the second lateral edge 153e defining a second protrusion 162e, a third notch 183e in the first lateral edge 152e defining a third protrusion 181e, and a fourth notch 186e in the second lateral edge 153e defining a fourth protrusion 182e. As with the conveyor component 100, in this embodiment, the first and second notches 163e, 166e and therefore also the first and second protrusions 161e, 162e are aligned. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 64 / 150 50 / 54 axially along the support member 150e. Similarly, the third and fourth notches 183e, 186e and therefore also the third and fourth projections 181e, 182e are aligned axially along the support member 150e.

[0078] In this embodiment, each of the first, second, third, and fourth projections 161e, 162e, 181e, 182e are angled to extend downward toward the distal end 151e of the supporting limb 150e as they extend beyond the respective first and second lateral borders 152e, 153e on which they are located. Furthermore, each of the first, second, third, and fourth projections 161e, 162e, 181e, 182e are multi-level projections, so that they include a lower projection portion and an upper projection portion.

[0079] Finally, Figures 15A and 15B illustrate a carrier component 100f comprising a body portion 110f and a plurality of support members 150f extending downward from the carrier component 100f in a spaced manner. The carrier component 100f is identical to the carrier component 100, except with respect to the configuration of the notches and protrusions of the support member 150f, as further described below.

[0080] The supporting member 150f extends from the body portion 110f to a distal end 151f along a longitudinal axis NN. The supporting member 150f comprises a first lateral edge 152f and a second lateral edge 153f located on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis NN. The supporting member 150f comprises a first notch 163f in the first lateral edge 152f that Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 65 / 150 51 / 54 defines a first projection 161f, a second notch 166f on the second lateral edge 153f which defines a second projection 162f, a third notch 183f on the first lateral edge 152f which defines a third projection 181f, and a fourth notch 186f on the second lateral edge 153f which defines a fourth projection 182f. As with the carrier component 100, in this embodiment, the first and second notches 163f, 166f, and therefore also the first and second projections 161f, 162f, are axially aligned along the support member 150f. Similarly, the third and fourth notches 183e, 186e, and therefore also the third and fourth projections 181e, 182e, are axially aligned along the support member 150e.

[0081] Furthermore, as discussed above with carrier component 100, for each of the carrier components 100a-100f, the first and second protrusions 161a-f, 162a-f terminate at a position along the respective support member 150a-f that is closer to the longitudinal axis of that support member 150a-f than the position where the third and fourth protrusions 181a-f, 182af terminate. In other words, a distance measured from the longitudinal axis of support member 150a-f to the first protrusion 161a-f is less than a distance measured from the longitudinal axis of support member 150a-f to the third protrusion 181a-f. Similarly, a distance measured from the longitudinal axis of the support member 150a-f to the second projection 162a-f is less than a distance measured from the longitudinal axis of the support member 150a-f to the fourth projection 182a-f. Although this is shown in all embodiments, in Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 66 / 150 52 / 54 Other embodiments: The first and third projections 161a-f may terminate at a position that is the same distance from the longitudinal axis of the supporting member 150a-f. The second and third projections 161a-f may terminate at a position that is the same distance from the longitudinal axis of the supporting member 150a-f. In still other embodiments, the third projections 162a-f may terminate at a position that is closer to the longitudinal axis of the supporting member 150a-f than the first projections 161a-f. The fourth projections 162a-f may terminate at a position that is closer to the longitudinal axis of the supporting member 150a-f than the second projections 162a-f. Thus, some variation in the structure according to the invention described in this document is possible.

[0082] The conveyor components 100 described in this document may be formed from metal in several embodiments. For example, the conveyor components 100 may be stamped from a sheet metal piece and then bent at right angles (or substantially right angles, which is plus or minus 5°) so that the support members 150 extend down from the body portions 110 of the conveyor components. Thus, the conveyor components 100 may first be stamped using a stamping press to form the metal into a desired shape by removing portions of the conveyor components 100 to define the support members 150. Then, portions of the conveyor components 100 may be bent relative to the body portion 110 to form the generally U-shaped form of the conveyor component 100. Furthermore, although Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 67 / 150 53 / 54 described in this document as being made of metal, the invention should not be so limited in all embodiments and the conveyor components 100 may be formed from other materials including plastic, polystyrene, wood or the like, provided that the conveyor component 100 is sufficiently rigid to allow it to support the panels 200 as described in this document. Obviously, other techniques for forming the conveyor components 100 may be possible in other embodiments, including extrusion, injection molding, forging or the like.

[0083] The 200 panels described in this document may be made of metal, plastic, fabric, acoustic materials, thermal materials or the like. Thus, any type of panel currently used for ceiling or wall cladding may be used in accordance with the invention presented in this document.

[0084] As can be seen from this disclosure, the invention provides a solution to the problem of having to manufacture, inventory and supply different supports for each panel size and provides a solution to the problem of cut end panels not being securely fastened to the conveyor.

[0085] Although the invention has been described in relation to specific examples, including currently preferred modes of carrying out the invention, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and permutations of the systems and techniques described above. It should be understood that other embodiments may be used and structural and functional modifications may be made without Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 68 / 150 54 / 54 fall outside the scope of the present invention. Thus, the spirit and scope of the invention should be interpreted broadly as set forth in the appended claims. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 69 / 150

Claims

1 / 11 CLAIMS 1. A carrier component (100) configured to support one or more panels (200) of a ceiling system (1000), the carrier component (100) characterized in that it comprises: a body portion (110) extending along a first longitudinal axis (AA); and a plurality of support members (150) extending from the body portion (110) and arranged in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis (AA), each of the support members (150) extending along a second longitudinal axis (BB) and comprising: a distal end (151); a first projection (161) and a second projection (162) located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis (BB);and a third prominence (181) and a fourth prominence (182) located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis (BB), the third and fourth prominences (181, 182) being located further from the distal end (151) than the first and second prominences (161, 162);the first and second projections (161, 162) are angled so that a distance from the first and second projections (161, 162) to the distal end (151) of the supporting member (150) increases as the first and second projections (161, 162) are located further from the second longitudinal axis (BB) of the supporting member (150), and where the third and fourth projections (181, 182) are angled so that a distance from Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page. 70 / 150 2 / 11 of the third and fourth projections (181, 182) at the distal end (151) of the supporting limb (150) decreases as the third and fourth projections (181, 182) are located further from the second longitudinal axis (BB) of the supporting limb (150).; 2. Carrier component (100), according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second projections (161, 162) are intersected by a first transverse axis (GG) that is perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis (BB) of the support member (150), and in that the third and fourth projections (181, 182) are intersected by a second transverse axis (HH) that is perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis (BB) of the support member (150), the first transverse axis (GG) being located closer to the distal end (151) of the support member (150) than the second transverse axis (HH).

3. Carrier component (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the first projection (161) extends along a first projection axis (CC) and the second projection (162) extends along a second projection axis (DD), a distance between the distal end (151) of the supporting member (150) and the first and second projection axes (CC, DD) decreases as a distance between the first and second projection axes (CC, DD) and the second longitudinal axis (BB) decreases, and in that the third projection (181) extends along a third projection axis (EE) and the fourth projection (182) extends along a fourth projection axis (FF), Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p.71 / 150 3 / 11 a distance between the distal end (151) of the supporting limb (150) and the third and fourth axes of prominence (EE, FF) increases as the distance between the third and fourth axes of prominence (EE, FF) and the second longitudinal axis (BB) decreases.

4. Carrier component (100), according to claim 1, characterized in that each of the support members (150) comprises a first lateral edge (152) and a second lateral edge (153) located on opposite sides of the second longitudinal axis (BB), a first notch (163) in the first lateral edge (152) defining the first protrusion (161), a second notch (166) in the second lateral edge (153) defining the second protrusion (162), a third notch (183) in the first lateral edge (152) defining the third protrusion (181) and a fourth notch (186) in the second lateral edge (153) defining the fourth protrusion (182).

5. Transport component (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the first and second protrusions (161, 162) are configured to engage a mounting element (205a) of a first type of panel (200a) to support the first type of panel (200a) from the support members (150), and in that the third and fourth protrusions (181, 182) are configured to engage a mounting element (205b) of a second type of panel (200b) to support the second type of panel (200b) from the support members (150), the first and second types of panels (200a, 200b) being different, in that the first and second protrusions (161, 162) are configured to prevent and Petition 870260012233, of 09 / 02 / 2026, page.72 / 150 4 / 11 prohibit engagement with the mounting element (205b) of the second type of panel (200b), and wherein the third and fourth protrusions (181, 182) are configured to prevent and prohibit engagement with the mounting element (205a) of the first type of panel (200a).

6. Conveyor component (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that one end of the first protrusion (161) that is closest to the second longitudinal axis (BB) is located at a first distance from the second longitudinal axis (BB), and in that one end of the third protrusion (181) that is closest to the second longitudinal axis (BB) is located at a second distance from the second longitudinal axis (BB), the second distance being greater than the first distance.

7. Carrier component (100) configured to support one or more panels (200) of a ceiling system (1000), the carrier component (100) characterized in that it comprises: a body portion (110) extending along a first longitudinal axis (AA); and a first support member (150) extending from the body portion (110) along a second longitudinal axis (BB), the first support member (150) comprising a distal end (151), a first projection (161) located on a first side of the second longitudinal axis (BB) and a second projection (181) located on the first side of the second longitudinal axis (BB), the first projection (161) being located closer to the distal end (151) of the first support member. Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page. 73 / 150 5 / 11 support (150) than the second protrusion (181);and a second supporting member (150) extending from the body portion (110) along a third longitudinal axis (BB), the second supporting member (150) comprising a distal end (151), a third projection (162) located on a second side of the third longitudinal axis and a fourth projection (182) located on the second side of the third longitudinal axis (BB), the third projection (162) being located closer to the distal end (151) of the second supporting member (150) than the fourth projection (182); and wherein the second support member (150) is located on a second side of the second longitudinal axis (BB) of the first support member (150), and the first support member (150) is located on a first side of the third longitudinal axis (BB) of the second support member (150), the first and second support members (150) being spaced from each other along the first longitudinal axis (AA) of the body portion (110);and the second projection (181) of the first support member (150) is angled upwards moving in a direction towards the second longitudinal axis (BB) and wherein the fourth projection (182) of the second support member (150) is angled upwards moving in a direction towards the third longitudinal axis (BB).; 8. Carrier component (100), according to claim 7, characterized in that the first and second support members (150) are configured to support a first type of panel (200a) by means of engaging the first type of panel (200a) with the first protrusion (161) of the first support member (150) and the third protrusion (162) of the second support member (150), and in that the first and second support members (150) are configured to support a second type of panel (200b) by means of engaging the second type of panel (200b) with the second protrusion (181) of the first support member (150) and the fourth protrusion (182) of the second support member (150).

9. Conveyor component (100), according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that one end of the second protrusion (181) that is located closer to the second longitudinal axis (BB) is farther from the second longitudinal axis (BB) than one end of the first protrusion (161) that is located closer to the second longitudinal axis (BB).

10. Carrier component (100) configured to support one or more panels (200) of a ceiling system (1000), the carrier component (100) characterized in that it comprises: a body portion (110) extending along a first longitudinal axis (AA); and a plurality of support members (150) extending from the body portion (110) and arranged in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis (AA), each of the support members (150) extending along a second longitudinal axis (BB) and comprising: a distal end (151); a first lateral edge (152) extending from the distal end (151) in a direction towards Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page.75 / 150 7 / 11 portion of the body; a first notch (163) formed on the first lateral edge (152) and terminating at a first end that is located at a first distance from the second longitudinal axis (BB); and a second notch (183) formed on the first lateral edge (152) and terminating at a second end that is located at a second distance from the second longitudinal axis (BB), the second distance being greater than the first distance; wherein the first and second notches are angled relative to the second longitudinal axis (BB) so as to diverge from each other moving in a direction from the first lateral edge (152) towards the second longitudinal axis (BB); and wherein each of the first and second notches (163, 183) is configured to receive at least a portion of a mounting element (205a) of a panel (200) to mount the panel (200) on the carrier component (100).

11. Roof system (1000), characterized in that it comprises: a carrier component (100) extending along a first longitudinal axis (AA), the carrier component (100) comprising a body portion (110) and a plurality of support members (150) extending from the body portion (110) in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis (AA), each of the support members (150) comprising a second longitudinal axis (BB); at least one first panel (200a) configured for Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page. 76 / 150 8 / 11 to be mounted in a removable manner on the carrier component (100) by engagement with a first set of one or more of the plurality of support members (150) of the carrier component (100) such that a more upper edge (209b, 209d) of at least one first panel (200a) is located in a first axial position along one or more of the plurality of support members (150),at least one first panel (200a) comprising a first cavity (204a) defined between an uppermost edge (209b, 209d) of the at least first panel (200a) and a bottom wall (201a) of the at least first panel (200a), and wherein when the at least first panel (200a) is mounted on the carrier component (100), each of one or more of the plurality of support members (150) of the first assembly with which the at least first panel (200a) is engaged is at least partially located within the first cavity (204a) of the at least first panel (200a); and at least one second panel (200b) configured to be mounted in a removable manner on the carrier component (100) by engagement with a second assembly of one or more of the plurality of support members (150) of the carrier component (100) such that an uppermost edge (209b,209d) of at least one second panel (200b) being located in a second axial position along one or more of the plurality of supporting members (150), the at least one second panel (200b) comprising a second cavity (204a) defined between an upper edge (209b, 209d) of the at least one second panel (200b) and a bottom wall (201a) of the at least one Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page. 77 / 150 9 / 11 second panel (200b), and wherein when at least one second panel (200b) is mounted on the carrier component (100), each one or more of the plurality of support members (150) of the second assembly with which the at least one second panel (200b) is engaged is at least partially located within the second cavity (204a) of the at least one second panel (200b); and wherein the first and second axial positions are different from each other.

12. Roof system (1000), characterized in that it comprises: a carrier component (100) extending along a first longitudinal axis (AA) and comprising a body portion (110) and a plurality of support members (150) extending from the body portion (110) in a spaced manner along the first longitudinal axis (AA); and at least one panel (200) mounted in a removable manner on the carrier component (100) by simultaneous engagement with a first support member (150) of the plurality of support members (150) and a second support member (150) of the plurality of support members (150), at least one first panel (200) comprising a bottom wall (201a), a first side wall (202a) extending from the bottom wall (201a) to a first distal end, and a second side wall (203a) extending from the bottom wall (201a) to a second distal end,the first and second distal ends situated in a reference plane, the at least one first panel (200) comprising a Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, page 78 / 150 10 / 11 cavity (204a) defined between the reference plane and a bottom wall (201a), and wherein when the at least one panel (200) is mounted on the carrier component (100) at least a portion of the first and second support members (150) are located within the cavity of the at least one panel (200)., 13. Roof system (1000), according to claim 12, characterized in that each of the plurality of support members (150) comprises a second longitudinal axis (BB), a first projection (161) located on a first side of the second longitudinal axis (BB), and a second projection (162) located on a second side of the second longitudinal axis (BB), wherein at least one panel (200) is engaged with the first projection (161) of the first support member (150) and with the second projection (162) of the second support member (150) to mount the at least one panel (200) on the carrier component (100), and wherein the second longitudinal axes (BB) of the first and second support members (150) intersect the cavity (204a) of the at least one panel (200).

14. Roof system (1000), according to claim 12, characterized in that the first support member (150) comprises a second longitudinal axis (BB) and the third support member (150) comprises a third longitudinal axis (BB), and in that when at least one panel (200) is mounted on the carrier component (100), the third and fourth longitudinal axes cross the cavity (204a) of at least one panel (200). Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 79 / 150 11 / 11 15. Ceiling system (1000), according to claim 12, characterized in that at least one panel (200) comprises a lower surface forming a portion of an exposed ceiling surface, the first side wall (202a) extending from the lower surface towards the carrier component (100), and the second side wall (203a) extending from the lower surface towards the carrier component (100) and being spaced from the first side wall (202a), wherein the first side wall (202a) is situated in a foreground plane (P1-P1) and the second side wall (203a) is situated in a background plane (P2-P2), and wherein the first and second support members (150) are located entirely between the foreground and background planes (P1-P1, P2-P2). Petition 870260012233, dated 09 / 02 / 2026, p. 80 / 150

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