A tile unit

Abstract

The present invention a tile unit (1) for a tile system (100), such as a suspended tile system. The tile unit (1) comprises: a polygon-shaped tile (2); and an edge profile (3); wherein the polygon-shaped tile (2) comprises a first major surface (4) intended to face a room, an opposing second major surface (5), and side edges (2a-d) connecting the first major surface (4) and the second major surface (5); and wherein the edge profile (3) comprises: an elongated structure (6), wherein in an assembled state of the suspended tile system (100): the elongated structure (6) is configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile (2) and a neighboring polygon-shaped tile (2), and a surface portion (6a) of the elongated structure (6) extending along a longitudinal axis thereof is intended to face said room. Wherein the edge profile (3) further comprises and an anchor (7) projecting from said elongated structure (6) and insertable into the polygon-shaped tile (2) from one side edge (2a-d) of said side edges (2a-d) such that the elongated structure (6) is arranged along said one side edge (2a-d).

Description

Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to tile units and suspended tile systems comprising such tile units.Background art

[0002] In order to improve the acoustic properties of interior spaces, such as rooms and corridors, acoustic panels in the form of tile units arranged in a ceiling systems are often used. The panels may be provided in a variety of shapes and be made of a variety of sound absorbing materials, for example mineral fibre materials.

[0003] When arranged in such a system, the tile units are often arranged side edge to side edge. However, due to discrepancies in dimensions of the tiles and / or supporting grid of runners, unwanted gaps often arise between tile units. This may not only impair the acoustic properties of the ceiling system, but may also, in the case where the ceiling system is suspended, make visible equipment, such as electronic equipment, cabling, ventilation and piping, that said ceiling is intended to cover. Furthermore, a gap between two tile units is aesthetically unpleasing, constitutes unused space and is prone to fouling.

[0004] A solution is to, after the mounting of the ceiling system, cover any gap with a strip. However, such a solution is time consuming and costly.Summary of the invention

[0005] To achieve at least one of the above objects and also other objects that will be evident from the following description, a tile unit having the features defined in claim 1 is provided according to the present invention. Preferred variants will be evident from the dependent claims.

[0006] A tile unit for a tile system, the tile unit comprising: a polygon-shaped tile; and an edge profile; wherein the polygon-shaped tile comprises a first major surface intended to face a room, an opposing second major surface, and side edges connecting the first major surface and the second major surface; and wherein the edge profile comprises: an elongated structure, wherein in an assembled state of the tile system: the elongated structure is configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile and a neighboring polygon-shaped tile, and a surface portion of the elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis thereof is intended to face said room; and an anchor projecting from said elongated structure and insertable into the polygon-shaped tile from one side edge of said side edges such that the elongated structure is arranged along said one side edge.

[0007] Hereby, a more aesthetically pleasing panel system which is easier to install is provided.

[0008] A ceiling system may, e.g., be a system in which tile units are attached directly to a structural ceiling. Alternatively, a ceiling system may be a suspended ceiling system.

[0009] A gap between the polygon-shaped ceiling tile and a neighbouring polygon-shaped ceiling tile is to be understood as a distance or space between the two polygon-shaped ceiling tiles when they are assembled in a suspended tile system, in particular between respective side edges of the two polygon-shaped ceiling tiles which are facing one another in the assembled state. Since the elongated structure is configured to at least partially fill the gap, and since it comprises a surface portion which in the assembled state is intended to face the room, the gap is visible from inside the room. Further, since the gap is visible from inside the room, this entails that, in the assembled state, the elongated structure is visible from inside the room. Furthermore, since a side edge has a longitudinal extension along a longitudinal axis, the gap may therefore, for example, be characterized or defined by a plane connecting or intersecting two side edges which face one another. That the elongated structure at least partially fills the gap between a tile and a neighbouring tile is therefore to be understood as this distance or space being at least partially occupied by the elongated structure of the edge profile. That is, the elongated structure may extend from the side edge, into which it has been inserted, towards a side edge of the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile, such that it covers 50%, or 60%, or 70%, or 80%, or 90%, or 100% of the distance between the side edges.

[0010] Within the context of the present application, the term "major surface" of a polygon-shaped tile refers the largest or one of the largest surfaces of the tile. Naturally, since a tile for a suspended ceiling has a flat shape, at least two major surfaces are present: one that, in an assembled suspended ceiling, faces the room, and one that is opposite. The major surface opposite the one that is facing the room is therefore usually arranged to face a ceiling, or any equipment, machinery or systems that the suspended ceiling is intended to cover, such as cabling, ventilation, piping and electronic equipment.

[0011] The polygon-shaped tile may be made of any material or combination of materials. For example, the tile may be made of sound-absorbing material, such as mineral fibre material. Additionally or alternatively, the tile may, e.g., comprise wood fibre material, or polymeric material.

[0012] The tile unit may have any shape. Therefore, the polygon-shaped tile may have any polygonal shape. For example, the polygon-shaped tile may be triangular, rectangular or hexagonal. The first and second major surfaces of the polygon-shaped tile may thus be triangular, rectangular or hexagonal. In most situations, the polygon-shaped tile is substantially quadratic. That is, the polygon-shaped tile may comprise four side edges, each side edge extending substantially perpendicular to both neighbouring side edges.

[0013] The edge profile may be made of any material or combination of materials, for example metal, plastic, wood or paper fibre material.

[0014] The elongated structure of the edge profile may have any shape. As such, a cross-section of the elongated structure as seen transverse to a longitudinal extension thereof may have any shape. The elongated structure may be provided in the form of a full body. Alternatively the elongated structure may be provided in the form of a hollow body. For example, a transverse cross-section of the elongated structure may be quadratic, triangular, rectangular, or rounded, such as elliptical, semicircular or circular. The elongated structure may be configured to be flush with the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile. In other words, the elongated structure may have a surface portion which is flush with the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile when assembled into a tile unit. That is, when arranged in a suspended ceiling, the elongated structure may be flush with the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile in which it is inserted into, as well as the first major surface of a neighbouring polygon-shaped tile.

[0015] The elongated structure may be of any length. That is, the elongated structure may be of the same, or at least substantially the same, length as the side edge. Alternatively, the elongated structure may be shorter than the side edge.

[0016] The anchor of the edge profile may be provided in a variety of ways. Further, since the anchor is insertable from one side edge of the polygon-shaped tile, the one side edge may be formed in accordance with the shape and / or function of the anchor, such as having a complementary shape to the anchor, or having elements facilitating reception of the anchor.

[0017] For example, the anchor may comprise a plurality of pins, each pin being insertable into the polygon-shaped tile from the one side edge.

[0018] Hereby, the edge profile may be readily insertable from a side edge and into the material of the polygon-shaped tile. Hence, the tile unit is easy to assemble.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, the anchor may be a flange, and wherein the one side edge of the tile is provided with a groove configured for receiving the flange.

[0020] The flange may be retained in the groove in a variety of ways. For example, the flange may be fixedly retained in the groove. That is, retained in the groove such that the flange, and therefore the edge profile, is attached to the polygon-shaped tile in a rigid manner. The flange may be fixedly retained for example by being provided with an adhesive.

[0021] The anchor may be barbed such that the anchor, when inserted into the polygon-shaped tile, may be configured to resist removal from the polygon-shaped tile.

[0022] That is, the barbing of the anchor is configured in such a way so that, after the anchor has been inserted in a direction of insertion, provide resistance of removal at least in the opposite direction. That the anchor is barbed may entail that it is provided with a plurality of barbs. If the anchor comprises a plurality of pins, each pin may be provided with at least one barb.

[0023] Alternatively, the flange may be configured to be releasably retained in the groove. The flange may be releasably retained in the groove by force of friction. That is, after having been received by and arranged in the groove, the friction from one or more walls of the groove arranged in contact with the flange may be sufficient to keep the flange in place. To this end, the groove may have slightly smaller dimensions than the dimensions of the flange, such that the force of friction is increased. The opening of the groove may have smaller dimensions than that of the flange, wherein the groove is elastic such that flange engages the groove in a snap-fit-like engagement. That is, the flange may be configured for insertion into the groove upon elastic deformation of the flange and / or the groove.

[0024] The flange may be provided with a flexible end portion having a hook-shaped cross-section, the end portion being configured for compression upon insertion of the flange in the groove.

[0025] A "Hook-shaped cross-section" is to be understood as a cross-section having a curved shape, for example so as to be substantially V-shaped or substantially U-shaped. That is, the end portion of the flange is shaped such that a portion thereof may, in a resilient manner, be moved towards another portion thereof.

[0026] The side edge of the polygon-shaped tile may further be shaped in a variety of ways. Hence, the side edge may have cross-sectional profile of a variety of shapes. As has been mentioned above in relation to the anchor of the edge profile, the side edge of the polygon-shaped tile may be provided with a cross-section facilitating the reception of the edge profile.

[0027] The polygon-shaped tile may be provided with a lip portion forming a projection from the one side edge, the lip portion having: a first surface forming part of the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile, an opposing second surface and a side surface; wherein the elongated structure of the edge profile may be arranged against the side surface of the lip portion and wherein, in the assembled state of the suspended tile system, the one side edge and the lip portion thereof, the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile and the edge profile are configured to define a void.

[0028] In other words, the cross-sectional profile of the side edge may be shaped such that a void is present between the tile unit and a neighbouring tile unit, when assembled in a suspended ceiling. A further surface portion of the elongated structure, different from the surface portion which is intended to face the room, may be configured to define the void. That is, the further surface portion may be arranged opposite the surface portion which is intended to face the room, and the further surface portion may be intended to face a structural ceiling. The void may serve a variety of functions. The void may serve as a space in which as electronics, electrical cables or piping may be arranged. To this end, the elongated structure may be configured to completely fill the gap between the polygon-shaped tile and a neighbouring polygon-shaped tile in an assembled state of the suspended tile system.

[0029] That the gap is completely filled is to be understood as the total area of the gap, for example defined by a plane connecting or intersecting two side edges which face one another, being covered. That is, the surface portion intended to face a room extends from the polygon-shaped tile to the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile. Further, the surface portion may be flush with the respective first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile and / or the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile. Hereby, the edge profile is arranged to completely conceal the void and any contents therein.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, a void may be defined by a side edge and the lip portion thereof, the edge profile and a runner of a grid of runners.

[0031] Hereby, the void may facilitate easier assembly of a suspended ceiling, since it may serve as a temporary receiving space for a side edge, or a portion thereof, of a neighbouring tile unit during installation. That is, in order to fit into an opening as defined by a grid of runners, the tile unit may be tilted on entry into such opening, wherein a side edge thereof is temporarily arranged in the void, after which the tile unit may be rotatingly brought into a position in which it is supported by the grid of runners.

[0032] The opposing side edge, i.e. the side edge of the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile, may, in accordance with what has been described above, also be shaped in a variety of ways. For example, a side edge of the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile may be provided with a lip portion forming a projection from the one side edge, the lip portion having: a first surface forming part of the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile, an opposing second surface and a side surface.

[0033] Therefore, in the assembled state of the suspended tile system, the elongated structure of the edge profile may be configured to be arranged against a side surface of a lip portion provided on a side edge of the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile.

[0034] A tile unit may be provided with more than one edge profile. An additional edge profile may be arranged on any side edge not occupied by an edge profile. That is, the tile unit may further comprise an additional edge structure comprising: an elongated structure, wherein in an assembled state of the suspended tile system: the elongated structure is configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile and another neighboring polygon-shaped tile, and a surface portion of the elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis thereof is intended to face the room; and an anchor projecting from said elongated structure and insertable into the polygon-shaped tile from another side edge of the side edges such that the elongated structure is arranged along said another side edge, wherein the another side edge is adjoining said side edge.

[0035] Any two edge profiles may have different dimensions and shapes, and be made of or comprise different materials. Further, a cross-sectional shape of one edge profile may differ from that of another edge profile. That is, one edge profile may be made of aluminium having a circular cross-section, whereas another edge profile is made of copper having a polygonal cross-section. Furthermore, an edge profile may be provided, on any external surface thereof, with a coating or finish. Further yet, an edge profile may be provided with further functionality. For example, the elongated structure of the edge profile may comprises a light strip. Moreover, that a side edge is adjoining another side edge is to be understood as the side edges being arranged next to each other and optionally intersecting with each other. For example, the polygon-shaped tile may be rectangular, wherein the side edge and the another side edge are arranged substantially perpendicular to each other. Hereby, the edge profiles may be provided in an L-shaped arrangement. Hereby, the tile units may more easily be assembled into a suspended ceiling system. This is due to the fact that four tile units provided with edge profiles in an L-shaped arrangement may, in more than one constellation, be arranged into a 4x4 array in which all gaps between neighbouring polygon-shaped tiles are filled by a respective edge profile. Furthermore, a plurality of such 4x4 arrays may be arranged into larger arrays in which all gaps between side edges of polygon-shaped tiles of neighbouring 4x4 arrays are filled by a respective edge profile.

[0036] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a suspended tile system is provided, the system comprising a plurality of tile units according to the first aspect of the present invention and a grid of runners configured to support the plurality of tile units.

[0037] Any benefit or technical effect discussed with regards to the first aspect of the present invention, and any variant thereof, may be applicable to the second aspect of the present invention. Thus, for the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated.

[0038] Generally, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless explicitly defined otherwise herein. All references to "a / an / the [element, device, component, means, step, etc]" are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of said element, device, component, means, step, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise. The steps of any method disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless explicitly stated.Brief description of the drawings

[0039] The above, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present invention, will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, with reference to the appended drawings, where the same reference numerals will be used for similar elements, wherein: Fig. 1A is a perspective top view of a tile unit according to the first aspect of the present invention; Fig. 1B is a side view of a polygon-shaped tile and an edge profile separately, i.e. when the tile unit is in an unassembled state; Fig. 1C is a side view of the features in Fig. 1B in an assembled state; Fig. 2 is a cross-section view of two side edges each belonging to a respective tile unit, each side edge being suspended by a runner, and wherein an edge profile is inserted into one of the side edges such that it fills a gap between the polygon-shaped tile and the neighbouring polygon-shaped; Fig. 3 is a perspective bottom view of a suspended ceiling comprising a suspended tile system according to the second aspect of the present invention, the suspended tile system comprising tile units according to the first aspect of the present invention; Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of two neighbouring tile units transverse to a longitudinal axis of a runner of a suspended ceiling; Fig. 5A is a top view of a tile unit indicating a first cross-section A-A taken from a first side to a third side of the tile unit, and a second cross-section B-B taken from a second side to a fourth side of the tile unit; Fig. 5B shows the cross-section A-A, illustrating the respective profiles of the side edges of the first and third side; Fig. 5C shows the cross-section B-B, illustrating the respective profiles of the side edges of the second and fourth side; Fig. 6A shows a system of tile units, wherein each tile unit is provided with two edge profiles in an L-shaped arrangement, wherein the tile units are arranged in a first arrangement; and Fig. 6B shows a system of tile units, wherein each tile unit is provided with two edge profiles in an L-shaped arrangement, wherein the tile units are arranged in a second arrangement. Description of embodiments

[0040] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which currently preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and fully convey the scope of the invention to the skilled person.

[0041] Fig. 1A is a perspective top view of a tile unit 1 according to the first aspect of the present invention. The tile unit 1 is configured to be arranged in a suspended tile system 100 (see inter alia Figs. 2B and 3). The tile unit 1 comprises a polygon-shaped tile 2 and an edge profile 3. A side view of the edge profile is shown in Figs. 1B-C.

[0042] The polygon-shaped tile 2 may be an acoustic tile element, i.e. an element configured absorb and / or redirect sound. To this end, the tile 2 may be made of or comprise sound-absorbing material, such as mineral fibre material. However, it is to be understood that the tile 2 may be made of or comprise any suitable material or combination of materials, such as comprise wood fibre material, or polymeric material.

[0043] The polygon-shaped tile 2, and thus the tile unit 1, has a flat shape and thus comprises a first major surface 4 and an opposing second major surface 5. In Fig. 1A, the first major surface is behind the tile 4. The first major surface 4 is intended to face a room when assembled in a suspended ceiling tile system, which is illustrated in particular in Fig. 3. The second major surface 5 is arranged opposite the first major surface. The second major surface 5 may therefore be arranged to face a ceiling, or any equipment, machinery or systems that the suspended ceiling is intended to cover, such as cabling, ventilation, piping and electronic equipment.

[0044] Here, the tile 2 is substantially quadratic. That is, the tile 2 comprises four side edges 2a-d. Further, the side edges 2a-d are substantially equal in length, and each side edge 2a-d has a substantially perpendicular longitudinal extension in relation to the respective longitudinal extension of the two neighbouring side edges 2a-d. That is, each side edge 2a-d has an extension along a longitudinal axis thereof, which longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the respective longitudinal axes of the two neighbouring side edges 2a-d. It is however to be understood that the polygon-shaped tile 2 may have any other suitable shape, such as triangular, rectangular or hexagonal. Consequently, the tile 2 may alternatively have three side edges or six side edges, or any number of side edges corresponding to the shape thereof.

[0045] Each side edge 2a-d connects the first major surface 4 to the second major surface 5. Furthermore, a cross-sectional profile of one side edge 2a-d may differ from that of another. Hereby, the side edges 2a-d may serve different functions, such as being arrangeable against different types of surfaces or on different types of components. Two different cross-sectional profiles are illustrated in Fig. 1B, and will be discussed in more detail further down.

[0046] In Fig. 1B the polygon-shaped tile 2 and the edge profile 3 are shown separately, i.e. when the tile unit 1 is in an unassembled state. The edge profile may be made of any material or combination of materials, for example metal, plastic, wood or paper fibre material.

[0047] The edge profile 3 comprises an elongated structure 6 and an anchor 7. The anchor 7 projects from the elongated structure 6 and is insertable into the polygon-shaped tile 2 from a first side edge 2a-d such that the elongated structure 6 is arranged along the first side edge 2a-d, as shown in Fig. 1C.

[0048] The elongated structure 6 is configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile 2 and a neighbouring polygon-shaped tile 2 in an assembled state of the suspended tile system. This is, e.g., illustrated in Fig. 2. The cross-section of the elongated structure 6, which is transverse to a longitudinal extension thereof, is here substantially rounded. However, it is to be understood that the elongated structure 6 of the edge profile 3 may have any shape, for example based on the desired visuals of the end-user. For example, the transverse cross-section of the elongated structure 6 may be quadratic, triangular, rectangular, or have other rounded shapes, such as elliptical, semicircular or circular. The elongated structure 6 may be provided as a full body or as a hollow body, The elongated structure 6 may be of any length. Here, as is visible in Fig. 1A, the length of the elongated structure 6 is substantially the same as the length of the side edge 2a-d. Alternatively, the elongated structure 6 may be shorter than the side edge 2a-d.

[0049] The tile unit 1 may be provided with more than one edge profile 3. That is, the tile unit 1 may further comprise an additional edge profile 3 comprising an elongated structure 6 configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile 2 and another neighbouring polygon-shaped tile 2 in an assembled state of the suspended tile system 100, and an anchor 7 projecting from the elongated structure 6 and insertable into the polygon-shaped tile 2 from another side edge 2a-d of said the edges 2a-d such that the elongated structure 6 is arranged along the another side edge 2a-d.

[0050] Any two edge profiles 3 may have different dimensions and shapes, and be made of or comprise different materials. Further, a cross-sectional shape of one edge profile 3 may differ from that of another edge profile 3. That is, one edge profile 3 may be made of aluminium having a circular cross-section, whereas another edge profile 3 is made of copper having a polygonal cross-section. Furthermore, an edge profile 3 may be provided, on any external surface thereof, with a coating or finish. Further yet, an edge profile 3 may be provided with further functionality. For example, the elongated structure 6 of the edge profile 3 may comprises a light strip. Further, any edge profile 3 may be provided in any one side edge 2a-d of a tile unit 1. Tile units 1 having edge profiles 3 provided in an L-shaped arrangement are shown in and discussed in relation to Fig. 6A and 6B.

[0051] In Figs. 1B and 1C, the anchor 7 is provided in the form of a flange. Further, the side edge 2a-d is provided with a groove 9 configured for receiving the flange 7. Furthermore, the flange 7 is barbed, i.e. provided with a barb 8. Hereby, the anchor 7, when having been inserted into the polygon-shaped tile 2, resists removal from the polygon-shaped tile 2. The engagement of the barb 8 with a wall of the groove 9 is further illustrated in Fig. 2.

[0052] It is to be understood that the anchor 7 may be provided in a variety of ways. Further, since the anchor 7 is insertable from one side edge 2a-d of the polygon-shaped tile 2, the one side edge 2a-d may be formed in accordance with the shape and / or function of the anchor 7, such as having a complementary shape to the anchor 7, or having elements facilitating reception of the anchor. For example, the anchor 7 may comprise a plurality of pins, each pin being insertable into the polygon-shaped tile 2 from the one side edge 2a-d.

[0053] The flange 7 may be retained in the groove 9 in a variety of ways. That is, the flange 7 does not have to be barbed in order to be retained in the groove 9. Additionally or alternatively, the flange 7 may be configured to be releasably retained in the groove 9. The flange may be releasably retained in the groove by force of friction. That is, after having been received by and arranged in the groove 9, the friction from one or more walls of the groove 9 arranged in contact with the flange 7 may be sufficient to keep the flange 7 in place. To this end, the groove 9 may have slightly smaller dimensions than the dimensions of the flange 7, such that the force of friction is increased. The opening of the groove 9 may have smaller dimensions than that of the flange 7, wherein the groove 9 is elastic such that flange 7 engages the groove 9 in a snap-fit-like engagement. That is, the flange 7 may be configured for insertion into the groove 9 upon elastic deformation of the flange 7 and / or the groove 9.

[0054] Alternatively, the flange 7 may be fixedly retained in the groove 9. That is, retained in the groove 9 such that the flange 7, and therefore the edge profile 3, is attached to the polygon-shaped tile 2 in a rigid manner. The flange 7 may be fixedly retained for example by being provided with an adhesive.

[0055] Figs. 1B-C further illustrates two side edges 2a, 2c, wherein the side edges are shaped differently from each other. That is, the side edges 2a, 2c have different cross-sectional profiles.

[0056] Moreover, as can be seen in Fig. 1C, the elongated structure 6 is arranged flush with the first major surface 4 of the polygon-shaped tile 2. In other words, the elongated structure 6 has surface portion 6a. The surface portion 6a of the elongated structure 6 is extending along a longitudinal axis thereof, and is intended to face the room in which the tile unit 1 is to be mounted. Here, the surface portion 6a is further substantially flush with the first major surface 4.

[0057] In Fig. 2, is a cross-section view of two side edges 2a-d are shown. Each side edge belongs to a respective tile unit 1, i.e. the two tile units 1 are neighbouring. Each side edge 2a-d is suspended by a runner 10. The runner 10 may be any runner comprised in a suspension system for a suspended ceiling, as is well known in the art. Here, each polygon-shaped tile 2 is provided with a lip portion 12 forming a projection from the side edge 2a-d. The lip portion 12 has: a first surface 12a forming part of the first major surface 4 of the polygon-shaped tile 2, an opposing second surface 12b and a side surface 12c. As can be seen, the elongated structure 6 is arranged against the side surface 12c of the lip portion 12 of the side edge 2a-d in which the edge profile 3 is arranged.

[0058] The one side edge 2a-d and the lip portion 12 thereof, the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile 2 and the edge profile 3 further define a void 14. Here, it is specifically a further surface portion 6a of the elongated structure 6, different from the surface portion 6a which is intended to face the room, that participates in defining the void 14. The further surface portion 6b is arranged opposite the surface portion 6a. The void 14 may serve a variety of functions. The void may also serve as a space in which as electronics, electrical cables or piping may be arranged. Additionally, a void 14 is also defined by a side edge 2a-d and a lip portion 12 thereof, the edge profile 3 and the runner 10. Such a void 14 may be seen as being formed by any one of the side edges 2a-d in Fig. 2. Hereby, the void 14 may facilitate easier assembly of a suspended ceiling, since it may serve as a temporary receiving space for a side edge 2a-d, in particular a lip portion 12 thereof, of a neighbouring tile unit 1 during installation. That is, the lip portion 12 of the left side edge may be temporarily received by a void defined by the right side edge 2a-d, the right lip portion 12 and the runner 10.

[0059] Moreover, the elongated structure 6 is arranged against the side surface 12c of the lip portion 12 of the neighbouring tile unit 1. Hereby, the elongated structure 6 completely fills the gap between the polygon-shaped tile 2 and the neighbouring polygon-shaped 2. Hereby, the edge profile 6 conceals the void, and any contents therein.

[0060] The above situation is further illustrated in Fig. 3, where a bottom view of an assembled suspended tile system 100 comprising a plurality of tile units 1 is shown. As can be seen, only polygon-shaped tiles 2, in particular the first major surfaces 4 thereof, and edge profiles 3, are visible, providing a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Specifically, it is the surface portions 6a of the elongated structure 6 of the edge profiles 3 that are visible. That is, in the assembled suspended tile system 100, the surface portions 6a of the elongated structure 6 are visible from inside the room in which the system 100 is mounted. As has been mentioned above, any one edge profile 3 may be provided with further functionality and / or aesthetically desired features, such a coating or a light strip.

[0061] In Fig. 4, side edges 2a-d having shapes, that is cross-sectional profiles, differing from those shown in Figs. 1B-C and 2 are shown. Here, both side edges 2a-d are arranged perpendicular to the runner 10. That is, both side edges 2a-d have a respective longitudinal axis which is arranged substantially perpendicular to the runner 10.

[0062] Generally, any one side edge 2a-d of a given tile unit 1 may differ from the other side edges 2a-d of the tile unit 1. This is illustrated in Figs. 5A-C. In Fig. 5A, a tile unit 1 is shown, wherein two cross-sections, A - A and B - B, are indicated. The respective cross-sectional views are shown in Fig. 5B and Fig. 5C. As can be seen, the side edge 2a differs from the side edge 2c, whereas both side edges 2a and 2c differ from side edges 2b and 2d. Moreover, side edge 2b differ from side edge 2d. Furthermore, side edges 2c and 2d are provided with a respective edge profile 3. That is, the tile unit 1 is provided with two edge profiles 3. The side edges 2a-d may thus be configured to be arranged on or against different surfaces and / or components. For example, side edges 2a and 2c may be configured to be supported by a runner 10, as is shown in Fig. 2, whereas side edges 2b and 2d may be configured to be arranged perpendicular to a runner 10, that is with a longitudinal axis thereof arranged perpendicular to a runner 10, as is shown in Fig. 4.

[0063] Generally, a tile unit 1 may be provided with any number of edge profiles 3. Further, edge profiles 3 may be arranged in a plurality of ways in relation to each other, depending on which side edges 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d they are provided in. In Figs. 6A and 6B, two constellations of tile units 1 in suspended ceiling systems 100 are schematically shown. Here, each tile unit 1 is provided with two edge profiles 3 (indicated by the thicker black lines), wherein the side edges 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d of a given tile unit 1 that are provided with an edge profile 3 are adjoining. That is, for each tile unit 1, the edge profiles 3 are provided in an L-shaped arrangement. Hereby, the tile units 1 may more easily be assembled into a suspended ceiling system 100. As is clearly seen in Figs. 6A and 6B, the two constellations allow for all gaps between neighbouring polygon-shaped tiles 2 to be filled by a respective edge profile 3. Furthermore, a plurality of such 4x4 arrays may be arranged into larger arrays in which all gaps between side edges 3 of polygon-shaped tiles 2 of neighbouring 4x4 arrays are filled by a respective edge profile 3.

[0064] It will be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown. Several modifications and variations are thus conceivable within the scope of the invention which thus is exclusively defined by the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0040]The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which currently preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and fully convey the scope of the invention to the skilled person.

[0041]Fig. 1A is a perspective top view of a tile unit 1 according to the first aspect of the present invention. The tile unit 1 is configured to be arranged in a suspended tile system 100 (see inter alia Figs. 2B and 3). The tile unit 1 comprises a polygon-shaped tile 2 and an edge profile 3. A side view of the edge profile is shown in Figs. 1B-C.

[0042]The polygon-shaped tile 2 may be an acoustic tile element, i.e. an element configured absorb and / or redirect sound. To this end, the tile 2 may be made of or comprise sound-...

Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to tile units and suspended tile systems comprising such tile units.Background art

[0002] In order to improve the acoustic properties of interior spaces, such as rooms and corridors, acoustic panels in the form of tile units arranged in a ceiling systems are often used. The panels may be provided in a variety of shapes and be made of a variety of sound absorbing materials, for example mineral fibre materials.

[0003] When arranged in such a system, the tile units are often arranged side edge to side edge. However, due to discrepancies in dimensions of the tiles and / or supporting grid of runners, unwanted gaps often arise between tile units. This may not only impair the acoustic properties of the ceiling system, but may also, in the case where the ceiling system is suspended, make visible equipment, such as electronic equipment, cabling, ventilation and piping, that said ceiling is intended to cover. Furthermore, a gap between two tile units is aesthetically unpleasing, constitutes unused space and is prone to fouling.

[0004] A solution is to, after the mounting of the ceiling system, cover any gap with a strip. However, such a solution is time consuming and costly.Summary of the invention

[0005] To achieve at least one of the above objects and also other objects that will be evident from the following description, a tile unit having the features defined in claim 1 is provided according to the present invention. Preferred variants will be evident from the dependent claims.

[0006] A tile unit for a tile system, the tile unit comprising: a polygon-shaped tile; and an edge profile; wherein the polygon-shaped tile comprises a first major surface intended to face a room, an opposing second major surface, and side edges connecting the first major surface and the second major surface; and wherein the edge profile comprises: an elongated structure, wherein in an assembled state of the tile system: the elongated structure is configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile and a neighboring polygon-shaped tile, and a surface portion of the elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis thereof is intended to face said room; and an anchor projecting from said elongated structure and insertable into the polygon-shaped tile from one side edge of said side edges such that the elongated structure is arranged along said one side edge.

[0007] Hereby, a more aesthetically pleasing panel system which is easier to install is provided.

[0008] A ceiling system may, e.g., be a system in which tile units are attached directly to a structural ceiling. Alternatively, a ceiling system may be a suspended ceiling system.

[0009] A gap between the polygon-shaped ceiling tile and a neighbouring polygon-shaped ceiling tile is to be understood as a distance or space between the two polygon-shaped ceiling tiles when they are assembled in a suspended tile system, in particular between respective side edges of the two polygon-shaped ceiling tiles which are facing one another in the assembled state. Since the elongated structure is configured to at least partially fill the gap, and since it comprises a surface portion which in the assembled state is intended to face the room, the gap is visible from inside the room. Further, since the gap is visible from inside the room, this entails that, in the assembled state, the elongated structure is visible from inside the room. Furthermore, since a side edge has a longitudinal extension along a longitudinal axis, the gap may therefore, for example, be characterized or defined by a plane connecting or intersecting two side edges which face one another. That the elongated structure at least partially fills the gap between a tile and a neighbouring tile is therefore to be understood as this distance or space being at least partially occupied by the elongated structure of the edge profile. That is, the elongated structure may extend from the side edge, into which it has been inserted, towards a side edge of the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile, such that it covers 50%, or 60%, or 70%, or 80%, or 90%, or 100% of the distance between the side edges.

[0010] Within the context of the present application, the term "major surface" of a polygon-shaped tile refers the largest or one of the largest surfaces of the tile. Naturally, since a tile for a suspended ceiling has a flat shape, at least two major surfaces are present: one that, in an assembled suspended ceiling, faces the room, and one that is opposite. The major surface opposite the one that is facing the room is therefore usually arranged to face a ceiling, or any equipment, machinery or systems that the suspended ceiling is intended to cover, such as cabling, ventilation, piping and electronic equipment.

[0011] The polygon-shaped tile may be made of any material or combination of materials. For example, the tile may be made of sound-absorbing material, such as mineral fibre material. Additionally or alternatively, the tile may, e.g., comprise wood fibre material, or polymeric material.

[0012] The tile unit may have any shape. Therefore, the polygon-shaped tile may have any polygonal shape. For example, the polygon-shaped tile may be triangular, rectangular or hexagonal. The first and second major surfaces of the polygon-shaped tile may thus be triangular, rectangular or hexagonal. In most situations, the polygon-shaped tile is substantially quadratic. That is, the polygon-shaped tile may comprise four side edges, each side edge extending substantially perpendicular to both neighbouring side edges.

[0013] The edge profile may be made of any material or combination of materials, for example metal, plastic, wood or paper fibre material.

[0014] The elongated structure of the edge profile may have any shape. As such, a cross-section of the elongated structure as seen transverse to a longitudinal extension thereof may have any shape. The elongated structure may be provided in the form of a full body. Alternatively the elongated structure may be provided in the form of a hollow body. For example, a transverse cross-section of the elongated structure may be quadratic, triangular, rectangular, or rounded, such as elliptical, semicircular or circular. The elongated structure may be configured to be flush with the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile. In other words, the elongated structure may have a surface portion which is flush with the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile when assembled into a tile unit. That is, when arranged in a suspended ceiling, the elongated structure may be flush with the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile in which it is inserted into, as well as the first major surface of a neighbouring polygon-shaped tile.

[0015] The elongated structure may be of any length. That is, the elongated structure may be of the same, or at least substantially the same, length as the side edge. Alternatively, the elongated structure may be shorter than the side edge.

[0016] The anchor of the edge profile may be provided in a variety of ways. Further, since the anchor is insertable from one side edge of the polygon-shaped tile, the one side edge may be formed in accordance with the shape and / or function of the anchor, such as having a complementary shape to the anchor, or having elements facilitating reception of the anchor.

[0017] For example, the anchor may comprise a plurality of pins, each pin being insertable into the polygon-shaped tile from the one side edge.

[0018] Hereby, the edge profile may be readily insertable from a side edge and into the material of the polygon-shaped tile. Hence, the tile unit is easy to assemble.

[0019] Additionally or alternatively, the anchor may be a flange, and wherein the one side edge of the tile is provided with a groove configured for receiving the flange.

[0020] The flange may be retained in the groove in a variety of ways. For example, the flange may be fixedly retained in the groove. That is, retained in the groove such that the flange, and therefore the edge profile, is attached to the polygon-shaped tile in a rigid manner. The flange may be fixedly retained for example by being provided with an adhesive.

[0021] The anchor may be barbed such that the anchor, when inserted into the polygon-shaped tile, may be configured to resist removal from the polygon-shaped tile.

[0022] That is, the barbing of the anchor is configured in such a way so that, after the anchor has been inserted in a direction of insertion, provide resistance of removal at least in the opposite direction. That the anchor is barbed may entail that it is provided with a plurality of barbs. If the anchor comprises a plurality of pins, each pin may be provided with at least one barb.

[0023] Alternatively, the flange may be configured to be releasably retained in the groove. The flange may be releasably retained in the groove by force of friction. That is, after having been received by and arranged in the groove, the friction from one or more walls of the groove arranged in contact with the flange may be sufficient to keep the flange in place. To this end, the groove may have slightly smaller dimensions than the dimensions of the flange, such that the force of friction is increased. The opening of the groove may have smaller dimensions than that of the flange, wherein the groove is elastic such that flange engages the groove in a snap-fit-like engagement. That is, the flange may be configured for insertion into the groove upon elastic deformation of the flange and / or the groove.

[0024] The flange may be provided with a flexible end portion having a hook-shaped cross-section, the end portion being configured for compression upon insertion of the flange in the groove.

[0025] A "Hook-shaped cross-section" is to be understood as a cross-section having a curved shape, for example so as to be substantially V-shaped or substantially U-shaped. That is, the end portion of the flange is shaped such that a portion thereof may, in a resilient manner, be moved towards another portion thereof.

[0026] The side edge of the polygon-shaped tile may further be shaped in a variety of ways. Hence, the side edge may have cross-sectional profile of a variety of shapes. As has been mentioned above in relation to the anchor of the edge profile, the side edge of the polygon-shaped tile may be provided with a cross-section facilitating the reception of the edge profile.

[0027] The polygon-shaped tile may be provided with a lip portion forming a projection from the one side edge, the lip portion having: a first surface forming part of the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile, an opposing second surface and a side surface; wherein the elongated structure of the edge profile may be arranged against the side surface of the lip portion and wherein, in the assembled state of the suspended tile system, the one side edge and the lip portion thereof, the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile and the edge profile are configured to define a void.

[0028] In other words, the cross-sectional profile of the side edge may be shaped such that a void is present between the tile unit and a neighbouring tile unit, when assembled in a suspended ceiling. A further surface portion of the elongated structure, different from the surface portion which is intended to face the room, may be configured to define the void. That is, the further surface portion may be arranged opposite the surface portion which is intended to face the room, and the further surface portion may be intended to face a structural ceiling. The void may serve a variety of functions. The void may serve as a space in which as electronics, electrical cables or piping may be arranged. To this end, the elongated structure may be configured to completely fill the gap between the polygon-shaped tile and a neighbouring polygon-shaped tile in an assembled state of the suspended tile system.

[0029] That the gap is completely filled is to be understood as the total area of the gap, for example defined by a plane connecting or intersecting two side edges which face one another, being covered. That is, the surface portion intended to face a room extends from the polygon-shaped tile to the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile. Further, the surface portion may be flush with the respective first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile and / or the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile. Hereby, the edge profile is arranged to completely conceal the void and any contents therein.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, a void may be defined by a side edge and the lip portion thereof, the edge profile and a runner of a grid of runners.

[0031] Hereby, the void may facilitate easier assembly of a suspended ceiling, since it may serve as a temporary receiving space for a side edge, or a portion thereof, of a neighbouring tile unit during installation. That is, in order to fit into an opening as defined by a grid of runners, the tile unit may be tilted on entry into such opening, wherein a side edge thereof is temporarily arranged in the void, after which the tile unit may be rotatingly brought into a position in which it is supported by the grid of runners.

[0032] The opposing side edge, i.e. the side edge of the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile, may, in accordance with what has been described above, also be shaped in a variety of ways. For example, a side edge of the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile may be provided with a lip portion forming a projection from the one side edge, the lip portion having: a first surface forming part of the first major surface of the polygon-shaped tile, an opposing second surface and a side surface.

[0033] Therefore, in the assembled state of the suspended tile system, the elongated structure of the edge profile may be configured to be arranged against a side surface of a lip portion provided on a side edge of the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile.

[0034] A tile unit may be provided with more than one edge profile. An additional edge profile may be arranged on any side edge not occupied by an edge profile. That is, the tile unit may further comprise an additional edge structure comprising: an elongated structure, wherein in an assembled state of the suspended tile system: the elongated structure is configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile and another neighboring polygon-shaped tile, and a surface portion of the elongated structure extending along a longitudinal axis thereof is intended to face the room; and an anchor projecting from said elongated structure and insertable into the polygon-shaped tile from another side edge of the side edges such that the elongated structure is arranged along said another side edge, wherein the another side edge is adjoining said side edge.

[0035] Any two edge profiles may have different dimensions and shapes, and be made of or comprise different materials. Further, a cross-sectional shape of one edge profile may differ from that of another edge profile. That is, one edge profile may be made of aluminium having a circular cross-section, whereas another edge profile is made of copper having a polygonal cross-section. Furthermore, an edge profile may be provided, on any external surface thereof, with a coating or finish. Further yet, an edge profile may be provided with further functionality. For example, the elongated structure of the edge profile may comprises a light strip. Moreover, that a side edge is adjoining another side edge is to be understood as the side edges being arranged next to each other and optionally intersecting with each other. For example, the polygon-shaped tile may be rectangular, wherein the side edge and the another side edge are arranged substantially perpendicular to each other. Hereby, the edge profiles may be provided in an L-shaped arrangement. Hereby, the tile units may more easily be assembled into a suspended ceiling system. This is due to the fact that four tile units provided with edge profiles in an L-shaped arrangement may, in more than one constellation, be arranged into a 4x4 array in which all gaps between neighbouring polygon-shaped tiles are filled by a respective edge profile. Furthermore, a plurality of such 4x4 arrays may be arranged into larger arrays in which all gaps between side edges of polygon-shaped tiles of neighbouring 4x4 arrays are filled by a respective edge profile.

[0036] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a suspended tile system is provided, the system comprising a plurality of tile units according to the first aspect of the present invention and a grid of runners configured to support the plurality of tile units.

[0037] Any benefit or technical effect discussed with regards to the first aspect of the present invention, and any variant thereof, may be applicable to the second aspect of the present invention. Thus, for the sake of brevity, they will not be repeated.

[0038] Generally, all terms used in the claims are to be interpreted according to their ordinary meaning in the technical field, unless explicitly defined otherwise herein. All references to "a / an / the [element, device, component, means, step, etc]" are to be interpreted openly as referring to at least one instance of said element, device, component, means, step, etc., unless explicitly stated otherwise. The steps of any method disclosed herein do not have to be performed in the exact order disclosed, unless explicitly stated.Brief description of the drawings

[0039] The above, as well as additional objects, features and advantages of the present invention, will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limiting detailed description of preferred embodiments of the present invention, with reference to the appended drawings, where the same reference numerals will be used for similar elements, wherein: Fig. 1A is a perspective top view of a tile unit according to the first aspect of the present invention; Fig. 1B is a side view of a polygon-shaped tile and an edge profile separately, i.e. when the tile unit is in an unassembled state; Fig. 1C is a side view of the features in Fig. 1B in an assembled state; Fig. 2 is a cross-section view of two side edges each belonging to a respective tile unit, each side edge being suspended by a runner, and wherein an edge profile is inserted into one of the side edges such that it fills a gap between the polygon-shaped tile and the neighbouring polygon-shaped; Fig. 3 is a perspective bottom view of a suspended ceiling comprising a suspended tile system according to the second aspect of the present invention, the suspended tile system comprising tile units according to the first aspect of the present invention; Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view of two neighbouring tile units transverse to a longitudinal axis of a runner of a suspended ceiling; Fig. 5A is a top view of a tile unit indicating a first cross-section A-A taken from a first side to a third side of the tile unit, and a second cross-section B-B taken from a second side to a fourth side of the tile unit; Fig. 5B shows the cross-section A-A, illustrating the respective profiles of the side edges of the first and third side; Fig. 5C shows the cross-section B-B, illustrating the respective profiles of the side edges of the second and fourth side; Fig. 6A shows a system of tile units, wherein each tile unit is provided with two edge profiles in an L-shaped arrangement, wherein the tile units are arranged in a first arrangement; and Fig. 6B shows a system of tile units, wherein each tile unit is provided with two edge profiles in an L-shaped arrangement, wherein the tile units are arranged in a second arrangement. Description of embodiments

[0040] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which currently preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and fully convey the scope of the invention to the skilled person.

[0041] Fig. 1A is a perspective top view of a tile unit 1 according to the first aspect of the present invention. The tile unit 1 is configured to be arranged in a suspended tile system 100 (see inter alia Figs. 2B and 3). The tile unit 1 comprises a polygon-shaped tile 2 and an edge profile 3. A side view of the edge profile is shown in Figs. 1B-C.

[0042] The polygon-shaped tile 2 may be an acoustic tile element, i.e. an element configured absorb and / or redirect sound. To this end, the tile 2 may be made of or comprise sound-absorbing material, such as mineral fibre material. However, it is to be understood that the tile 2 may be made of or comprise any suitable material or combination of materials, such as comprise wood fibre material, or polymeric material.

[0043] The polygon-shaped tile 2, and thus the tile unit 1, has a flat shape and thus comprises a first major surface 4 and an opposing second major surface 5. In Fig. 1A, the first major surface is behind the tile 4. The first major surface 4 is intended to face a room when assembled in a suspended ceiling tile system, which is illustrated in particular in Fig. 3. The second major surface 5 is arranged opposite the first major surface. The second major surface 5 may therefore be arranged to face a ceiling, or any equipment, machinery or systems that the suspended ceiling is intended to cover, such as cabling, ventilation, piping and electronic equipment.

[0044] Here, the tile 2 is substantially quadratic. That is, the tile 2 comprises four side edges 2a-d. Further, the side edges 2a-d are substantially equal in length, and each side edge 2a-d has a substantially perpendicular longitudinal extension in relation to the respective longitudinal extension of the two neighbouring side edges 2a-d. That is, each side edge 2a-d has an extension along a longitudinal axis thereof, which longitudinal axis is perpendicular to the respective longitudinal axes of the two neighbouring side edges 2a-d. It is however to be understood that the polygon-shaped tile 2 may have any other suitable shape, such as triangular, rectangular or hexagonal. Consequently, the tile 2 may alternatively have three side edges or six side edges, or any number of side edges corresponding to the shape thereof.

[0045] Each side edge 2a-d connects the first major surface 4 to the second major surface 5. Furthermore, a cross-sectional profile of one side edge 2a-d may differ from that of another. Hereby, the side edges 2a-d may serve different functions, such as being arrangeable against different types of surfaces or on different types of components. Two different cross-sectional profiles are illustrated in Fig. 1B, and will be discussed in more detail further down.

[0046] In Fig. 1B the polygon-shaped tile 2 and the edge profile 3 are shown separately, i.e. when the tile unit 1 is in an unassembled state. The edge profile may be made of any material or combination of materials, for example metal, plastic, wood or paper fibre material.

[0047] The edge profile 3 comprises an elongated structure 6 and an anchor 7. The anchor 7 projects from the elongated structure 6 and is insertable into the polygon-shaped tile 2 from a first side edge 2a-d such that the elongated structure 6 is arranged along the first side edge 2a-d, as shown in Fig. 1C.

[0048] The elongated structure 6 is configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile 2 and a neighbouring polygon-shaped tile 2 in an assembled state of the suspended tile system. This is, e.g., illustrated in Fig. 2. The cross-section of the elongated structure 6, which is transverse to a longitudinal extension thereof, is here substantially rounded. However, it is to be understood that the elongated structure 6 of the edge profile 3 may have any shape, for example based on the desired visuals of the end-user. For example, the transverse cross-section of the elongated structure 6 may be quadratic, triangular, rectangular, or have other rounded shapes, such as elliptical, semicircular or circular. The elongated structure 6 may be provided as a full body or as a hollow body, The elongated structure 6 may be of any length. Here, as is visible in Fig. 1A, the length of the elongated structure 6 is substantially the same as the length of the side edge 2a-d. Alternatively, the elongated structure 6 may be shorter than the side edge 2a-d.

[0049] The tile unit 1 may be provided with more than one edge profile 3. That is, the tile unit 1 may further comprise an additional edge profile 3 comprising an elongated structure 6 configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile 2 and another neighbouring polygon-shaped tile 2 in an assembled state of the suspended tile system 100, and an anchor 7 projecting from the elongated structure 6 and insertable into the polygon-shaped tile 2 from another side edge 2a-d of said the edges 2a-d such that the elongated structure 6 is arranged along the another side edge 2a-d.

[0050] Any two edge profiles 3 may have different dimensions and shapes, and be made of or comprise different materials. Further, a cross-sectional shape of one edge profile 3 may differ from that of another edge profile 3. That is, one edge profile 3 may be made of aluminium having a circular cross-section, whereas another edge profile 3 is made of copper having a polygonal cross-section. Furthermore, an edge profile 3 may be provided, on any external surface thereof, with a coating or finish. Further yet, an edge profile 3 may be provided with further functionality. For example, the elongated structure 6 of the edge profile 3 may comprises a light strip. Further, any edge profile 3 may be provided in any one side edge 2a-d of a tile unit 1. Tile units 1 having edge profiles 3 provided in an L-shaped arrangement are shown in and discussed in relation to Fig. 6A and 6B.

[0051] In Figs. 1B and 1C, the anchor 7 is provided in the form of a flange. Further, the side edge 2a-d is provided with a groove 9 configured for receiving the flange 7. Furthermore, the flange 7 is barbed, i.e. provided with a barb 8. Hereby, the anchor 7, when having been inserted into the polygon-shaped tile 2, resists removal from the polygon-shaped tile 2. The engagement of the barb 8 with a wall of the groove 9 is further illustrated in Fig. 2.

[0052] It is to be understood that the anchor 7 may be provided in a variety of ways. Further, since the anchor 7 is insertable from one side edge 2a-d of the polygon-shaped tile 2, the one side edge 2a-d may be formed in accordance with the shape and / or function of the anchor 7, such as having a complementary shape to the anchor 7, or having elements facilitating reception of the anchor. For example, the anchor 7 may comprise a plurality of pins, each pin being insertable into the polygon-shaped tile 2 from the one side edge 2a-d.

[0053] The flange 7 may be retained in the groove 9 in a variety of ways. That is, the flange 7 does not have to be barbed in order to be retained in the groove 9. Additionally or alternatively, the flange 7 may be configured to be releasably retained in the groove 9. The flange may be releasably retained in the groove by force of friction. That is, after having been received by and arranged in the groove 9, the friction from one or more walls of the groove 9 arranged in contact with the flange 7 may be sufficient to keep the flange 7 in place. To this end, the groove 9 may have slightly smaller dimensions than the dimensions of the flange 7, such that the force of friction is increased. The opening of the groove 9 may have smaller dimensions than that of the flange 7, wherein the groove 9 is elastic such that flange 7 engages the groove 9 in a snap-fit-like engagement. That is, the flange 7 may be configured for insertion into the groove 9 upon elastic deformation of the flange 7 and / or the groove 9.

[0054] Alternatively, the flange 7 may be fixedly retained in the groove 9. That is, retained in the groove 9 such that the flange 7, and therefore the edge profile 3, is attached to the polygon-shaped tile 2 in a rigid manner. The flange 7 may be fixedly retained for example by being provided with an adhesive.

[0055] Figs. 1B-C further illustrates two side edges 2a, 2c, wherein the side edges are shaped differently from each other. That is, the side edges 2a, 2c have different cross-sectional profiles.

[0056] Moreover, as can be seen in Fig. 1C, the elongated structure 6 is arranged flush with the first major surface 4 of the polygon-shaped tile 2. In other words, the elongated structure 6 has surface portion 6a. The surface portion 6a of the elongated structure 6 is extending along a longitudinal axis thereof, and is intended to face the room in which the tile unit 1 is to be mounted. Here, the surface portion 6a is further substantially flush with the first major surface 4.

[0057] In Fig. 2, is a cross-section view of two side edges 2a-d are shown. Each side edge belongs to a respective tile unit 1, i.e. the two tile units 1 are neighbouring. Each side edge 2a-d is suspended by a runner 10. The runner 10 may be any runner comprised in a suspension system for a suspended ceiling, as is well known in the art. Here, each polygon-shaped tile 2 is provided with a lip portion 12 forming a projection from the side edge 2a-d. The lip portion 12 has: a first surface 12a forming part of the first major surface 4 of the polygon-shaped tile 2, an opposing second surface 12b and a side surface 12c. As can be seen, the elongated structure 6 is arranged against the side surface 12c of the lip portion 12 of the side edge 2a-d in which the edge profile 3 is arranged.

[0058] The one side edge 2a-d and the lip portion 12 thereof, the neighbouring polygon-shaped tile 2 and the edge profile 3 further define a void 14. Here, it is specifically a further surface portion 6a of the elongated structure 6, different from the surface portion 6a which is intended to face the room, that participates in defining the void 14. The further surface portion 6b is arranged opposite the surface portion 6a. The void 14 may serve a variety of functions. The void may also serve as a space in which as electronics, electrical cables or piping may be arranged. Additionally, a void 14 is also defined by a side edge 2a-d and a lip portion 12 thereof, the edge profile 3 and the runner 10. Such a void 14 may be seen as being formed by any one of the side edges 2a-d in Fig. 2. Hereby, the void 14 may facilitate easier assembly of a suspended ceiling, since it may serve as a temporary receiving space for a side edge 2a-d, in particular a lip portion 12 thereof, of a neighbouring tile unit 1 during installation. That is, the lip portion 12 of the left side edge may be temporarily received by a void defined by the right side edge 2a-d, the right lip portion 12 and the runner 10.

[0059] Moreover, the elongated structure 6 is arranged against the side surface 12c of the lip portion 12 of the neighbouring tile unit 1. Hereby, the elongated structure 6 completely fills the gap between the polygon-shaped tile 2 and the neighbouring polygon-shaped 2. Hereby, the edge profile 6 conceals the void, and any contents therein.

[0060] The above situation is further illustrated in Fig. 3, where a bottom view of an assembled suspended tile system 100 comprising a plurality of tile units 1 is shown. As can be seen, only polygon-shaped tiles 2, in particular the first major surfaces 4 thereof, and edge profiles 3, are visible, providing a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Specifically, it is the surface portions 6a of the elongated structure 6 of the edge profiles 3 that are visible. That is, in the assembled suspended tile system 100, the surface portions 6a of the elongated structure 6 are visible from inside the room in which the system 100 is mounted. As has been mentioned above, any one edge profile 3 may be provided with further functionality and / or aesthetically desired features, such a coating or a light strip.

[0061] In Fig. 4, side edges 2a-d having shapes, that is cross-sectional profiles, differing from those shown in Figs. 1B-C and 2 are shown. Here, both side edges 2a-d are arranged perpendicular to the runner 10. That is, both side edges 2a-d have a respective longitudinal axis which is arranged substantially perpendicular to the runner 10.

[0062] Generally, any one side edge 2a-d of a given tile unit 1 may differ from the other side edges 2a-d of the tile unit 1. This is illustrated in Figs. 5A-C. In Fig. 5A, a tile unit 1 is shown, wherein two cross-sections, A - A and B - B, are indicated. The respective cross-sectional views are shown in Fig. 5B and Fig. 5C. As can be seen, the side edge 2a differs from the side edge 2c, whereas both side edges 2a and 2c differ from side edges 2b and 2d. Moreover, side edge 2b differ from side edge 2d. Furthermore, side edges 2c and 2d are provided with a respective edge profile 3. That is, the tile unit 1 is provided with two edge profiles 3. The side edges 2a-d may thus be configured to be arranged on or against different surfaces and / or components. For example, side edges 2a and 2c may be configured to be supported by a runner 10, as is shown in Fig. 2, whereas side edges 2b and 2d may be configured to be arranged perpendicular to a runner 10, that is with a longitudinal axis thereof arranged perpendicular to a runner 10, as is shown in Fig. 4.

[0063] Generally, a tile unit 1 may be provided with any number of edge profiles 3. Further, edge profiles 3 may be arranged in a plurality of ways in relation to each other, depending on which side edges 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d they are provided in. In Figs. 6A and 6B, two constellations of tile units 1 in suspended ceiling systems 100 are schematically shown. Here, each tile unit 1 is provided with two edge profiles 3 (indicated by the thicker black lines), wherein the side edges 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d of a given tile unit 1 that are provided with an edge profile 3 are adjoining. That is, for each tile unit 1, the edge profiles 3 are provided in an L-shaped arrangement. Hereby, the tile units 1 may more easily be assembled into a suspended ceiling system 100. As is clearly seen in Figs. 6A and 6B, the two constellations allow for all gaps between neighbouring polygon-shaped tiles 2 to be filled by a respective edge profile 3. Furthermore, a plurality of such 4x4 arrays may be arranged into larger arrays in which all gaps between side edges 3 of polygon-shaped tiles 2 of neighbouring 4x4 arrays are filled by a respective edge profile 3.

[0064] It will be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown. Several modifications and variations are thus conceivable within the scope of the invention which thus is exclusively defined by the appended claims.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0040]The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which currently preferred embodiments of the invention are shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided for thoroughness and completeness, and fully convey the scope of the invention to the skilled person.

[0041]Fig. 1A is a perspective top view of a tile unit 1 according to the first aspect of the present invention. The tile unit 1 is configured to be arranged in a suspended tile system 100 (see inter alia Figs. 2B and 3). The tile unit 1 comprises a polygon-shaped tile 2 and an edge profile 3. A side view of the edge profile is shown in Figs. 1B-C.

[0042]The polygon-shaped tile 2 may be an acoustic tile element, i.e. an element configured absorb and / or redirect sound. To this end, the tile 2 may be made of or comprise sound-...

Claims

1. A tile unit (1) for a tile system (100), the tile unit (1) comprising: a polygon-shaped tile (2); and an edge profile (3); wherein the polygon-shaped tile (2) comprises a first major surface (4) intended to face a room, an opposing second major surface (5), and side edges (2a-d) connecting the first major surface (4) and the second major surface (5); and wherein the edge profile (3) comprises: an elongated structure (6), wherein in an assembled state of the tile system (100): the elongated structure (6) is configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile (2) and a neighboring polygon-shaped tile (2), and a surface portion (6a) of the elongated structure (6) extending along a longitudinal axis thereof is intended to face said room; and an anchor (7) projecting from said elongated structure (6) and insertable into the polygon-shaped tile (2) from one side edge (2a-d) of said side edges (2a-d) such that the elongated structure (6) is arranged along said one side edge (2a-d).

2. The tile unit (1) according to claim 1, wherein the polygon-shaped tile (2) is made of mineral fibre material.

3. The tile unit (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the elongated structure (6) is made of metal, plastic, wood or paper fibre material.

4. The tile unit (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the anchor (7) comprises a plurality of pins, each pin being insertable into the polygon-shaped tile (2) from said one side edge (2a-d).

5. The tile unit (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the anchor (7) is a flange, and wherein said one side edge (2a-d) of the polygon-shaped tile (2) is provided with a groove (9) configured for receiving the flange.

6. The tile unit (1) according to claim 5, wherein the flange (7) is configured to be releasably retained in the groove (9).

7. The tile unit (1) according to claim 6, wherein the flange (7) is configured for insertion into the groove (9) upon elastic deformation of the flange (7) and / or the groove (9).

8. The tile unit (1) according to claim 7, wherein the flange (7) is provided with a flexible end portion having a hook-shaped cross-section, said end portion being configured for compression upon insertion of the flange in the groove (9).

9. The tile unit (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the anchor (7) is barbed such that the anchor (7), when inserted into the polygon-shaped tile (2), is configured to resist removal from the polygon-shaped tile (2).

10. The tile unit (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein said polygon-shaped tile (2) is provided with a lip portion (12) forming a projection from said one side edge (2a-d), the lip portion (12) having: a first surface (12a) forming part of the first major surface (4) of the polygon-shaped tile (2), an opposing second surface (12b) and a side surface (12c); wherein the elongated structure (6) of the edge profile (3) is arranged against the side surface (12c) of the lip portion (12) and wherein, in the assembled state of the tile system (100), said one side edge (2a-d) and the lip portion (12) thereof, the neighboring polygon-shaped tile (2) and the elongated structure (6) are configured to define a void.

11. The tile unit (1) according to claim 10, wherein the elongated structure (6) is configured to completely fill the gap between the polygon-shaped tile (2) and a neighboring polygon-shaped tile (2) in an assembled state of the tile system (100).

12. The tile unit (1) according to claim 11, wherein, in the assembled state of the tile system (100), the elongated structure (6) is configured to be arranged against a side surface (12c) of a lip portion (12) provided on a side edge (2a-d) of the neighboring polygon-shaped tile (2).

13. The tile unit (1) according to any preceding claim, further comprising an additional edge profile (3) comprising: an elongated structure (6), wherein in an assembled state of the tile system (100): the elongated structure (6) is configured to at least partially fill a gap between the polygon-shaped tile (2) and another neighboring polygon-shaped tile (2), and a surface portion (6a) of the elongated structure (6) extending along a longitudinal axis thereof is intended to face the room; and an anchor (7) projecting from said elongated structure (6) and insertable into the polygon-shaped tile (2) from another side edge (2a-d) of said side edges (2a-d) such that the elongated structure (6) is arranged along said another side edge (2a-d), wherein said another side edge (2a-d) is adjoining said side edge (2a-d).

14. The tile unit (1) according to any preceding claim, wherein the elongated structure (6) of the edge profile comprises a light strip.

15. A suspended tile system (100) comprising a plurality of tile units (1) according to any one of claims 1-14 and a grid of runners configured to support the plurality of tile units.

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