New low-damage ceiling system

The novel ceiling system with friction dampers and vibration isolation bundles addresses the lack of seismic protection in conventional systems by dissipating energy and filtering vibrations, enhancing structural integrity and safety during earthquakes.

JP7832639B1Active Publication Date: 2026-03-18TONGJI UNIV
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Patent Information

Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Patents
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2025-09-25
Publication Date
2026-03-18

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional ceiling systems in earthquake-prone areas lack sufficient seismic protection, leading to structural damage and potential harm to occupants due to their rigidity and inadequate energy dissipation capacity.

Method used

A novel low-damage ceiling system incorporating friction dampers and vibration isolation suspension bundles, featuring a friction damper with a connecting arm and torsion spring for energy dissipation and a vibration isolation system with radial and conventional springs for filtering vibrations, ensuring structural integrity and resilience.

Benefits of technology

Enhances seismic resistance, reduces damage, and ensures quick recovery by dissipating seismic energy and filtering vibrations, providing safety and resilience in earthquake events.

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Abstract

This invention enhances the seismic resistance of ceilings, providing high safety and resilience, flexibility, and energy dissipation capabilities. It offers a novel, low-damage ceiling system. [Solution] The new low-damage ceiling system includes a friction damper and a vibration isolation suspension bundle. The friction damper includes a connecting arm and a torsion spring. The connecting arm is connected to the bottom plate via a pivot bolt and absorbs seismic energy. The torsion spring is mounted concentrically around the lower part of the pivot bolt and is used to bring the arm back to its center after the seismic force has dissipated. The vibration isolation suspension bundle includes a top suspension bundle, an isolation member, a radial spring, a normal spring, and a bottom suspension bundle. A cylindrical assembly is provided at the end of the top suspension bundle, and the radial spring is provided around the cylindrical assembly and returns to its center position after seismic displacement.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of construction work and building construction, and particularly to a novel low-damage ceiling system.

Background Art

[0002] In earthquake-prone areas, conventional ceiling systems usually cannot provide sufficient seismic protection, resulting in structural damage and potential harm to occupants. Existing systems typically use rigid joint suspension bundles, lacking the necessary flexibility and energy dissipation capacity to effectively handle seismic forces.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] The object of the present invention is to provide a novel low-damage ceiling system that improves the seismic performance of the ceiling and enhances safety and resilience during earthquakes, in order to overcome the drawbacks existing in the above-mentioned prior art.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The present invention provides a novel low-damage ceiling system, including friction dampers and vibration isolation suspension bundles. The friction damper is located at the connection points of the ceiling grid frame, dissipates seismic energy, prevents joint damage, and can center the ceiling grid frame on its own after an earthquake. The friction damper includes a connecting arm and a torsion spring. The connecting arm is connected to the bottom plate via a pivot bolt, absorbs seismic energy through scissor-like movement, and the torsion spring is concentrically attached around the lower part of the pivot bolt. The torsion spring is used to center the arm on its own after the seismic force dissipates. The vibration isolation suspension bundle supports the ceiling grid, filters stronger vibration frequencies, and is used to provide rotational flexibility during seismic activity. The vibration isolation support system comprises a top support, an isolation member, a radial spring, a conventional spring, and a bottom support. The top support is connected to the building's structural slab, and a cylindrical assembly is provided at the end of the top support. The radial spring is positioned around the cylindrical assembly and returns to its central position after seismic displacement. A conventional spring beneath the radial spring is used to support the bottom support and further filter vibrations. The radial spring is designed for this system to provide significant vibration isolation, return the support assembly to its position after an earthquake, and enhance ceiling stability.

[0005] Furthermore, the bottom plate is attached to the ceiling structure in order to maintain the position of the damper.

[0006] Furthermore, the base plate consists of two rectangular plates and serves as the mounting point for the entire assembly.

[0007] Furthermore, the pivot bolt is provided with a nut and a washer, which withstand the applied force and ensure the stability of the assembly, while the fastener fixes the bolt in place.

[0008] Furthermore, the aforementioned ceiling lattice frame consists of four ceiling panels.

[0009] Furthermore, each of the aforementioned ceiling panels has dimensions of 600mm x 600mm.

[0010] Furthermore, the pivot bolts are used as pivot points at both ends of the connecting arm.

[0011] Furthermore, the bottom suspension beams provide vertical support and also contribute to the vibration isolation process, transmitting filtered vibration energy from the isolation members to the ceiling, ensuring the overall stability and elasticity of the ceiling system.

[0012] Furthermore, the top support beam is connected to the building's structural panel, and the isolation member is supported by anchoring the upper part of the top support beam.

[0013] Furthermore, the cylindrical assembly at the end of the top suspension bundle moves within the radial spring, and this movement is counteracted by returning the cylindrical assembly to its original position.

[0014] The operating principle of the present invention is as follows: The friction damper operates like scissors, moving with the extension and retraction of the connecting arm to absorb and dissipate energy. When subjected to earthquakes or lateral forces, the connecting arm rotates around the pivot bolt at its end. Friction between the moving parts and resistance from the torsion spring dissipate energy and reduce the effects of vibration. The torsion spring is located beneath the nut, ensuring it is concentric with the pivot bolt, and its end is fixed to the spring arm. As the connecting arm rotates, the torsion spring is wound and unwound, generating a restorative force. After the force is removed, the torsion spring returns the connecting arm to its original position, ensuring the friction damper is ready for subsequent movement. Mechanical friction occurs between the pivot joint and the surface, absorbing kinetic energy. The torsion spring also serves as damping, providing a force to return to a controlled starting position by resisting sudden movements. During seismic activity, the top suspension bundle transmits vibrational energy to the isolation member. The cylindrical assembly at the end of the top suspension bundle moves within the radial spring, counteracting the movement by returning the assembly to its original position. Simultaneously, the conventional spring further absorbs and filters vibrations, significantly reducing their impact on the bottom suspension bundle and ceiling structure. Such a double-spring mechanism is crucial for maintaining ceiling integrity during and after earthquakes. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] Compared to the prior art, the present invention has the following beneficial effects. 1. Enhance the seismic resistance of the ceiling, providing high safety and resilience. In this invention, the low-damage ceiling system can more effectively prevent the effects of natural disasters such as earthquakes, reduce damage, and recover quickly after impact, ensuring the safety of personnel and the normal use of the building. It strengthens structural integrity during earthquakes by preventing joint damage and filtering strong vibration frequencies. Friction dampers are used for energy dissipation and self-centering, and vibration isolation suspension bundles are used for vibration filtering.

[0016] 2. Wide range of applications. In this application, the overall design of the ceiling system includes friction dampers and improved vibration isolation suspension bundles. The modular layout allows for easy integration into existing buildings and enhances seismic resilience without requiring extensive structural modifications.

[0017] 3. It possesses flexibility and energy dissipation capabilities. In this application, the low-damage ceiling system provides a novel solution to improve the safety of buildings in earthquake events. By integrating friction dampers and vibration isolation suspension bundles, the present invention enhances the resilience of structures and provides assurance of the safety of life and property in earthquake-prone areas. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] This is an overall schematic diagram of the new low-damage ceiling system. [Figure 2] This is a schematic diagram of the friction damper in the new low-damage ceiling system. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram of the vibration isolation suspension bundle for the new low-damage ceiling system. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram of the top suspension support of the vibration isolation suspension support of the new low-damage ceiling system. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram of the radial springs in the vibration isolation suspension bundle of the new low-damage ceiling system. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram of the isolation member of the vibration isolation suspension bundle for the new low-damage ceiling system. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram of the bottom suspension support of the vibration isolation suspension support of the new low-damage ceiling system.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail based on the drawings and specific examples. Features such as the model numbers of parts, material names, connection structures, control methods, algorithms, etc. that are not clearly described in this technical solution are all regarded as general technical features disclosed in the existing technology.

[0020] (Example 1) This example provides a new type of low-damage ceiling system. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 7, it includes a friction damper 1 and a vibration isolation suspension bundle 2. The friction damper 1 is located at the connection point of the ceiling grid frame, dissipates seismic energy, prevents joint damage, and can center the ceiling grid frame on its own after an earthquake. The friction damper 1 includes a connecting arm 1-2 and a torsion spring 1-4. The connecting arm 1-2 is connected to the bottom plate 1-1 via a pivot bolt 1-3, absorbs seismic energy through a scissor-like motion, and the torsion spring 1-4 is concentrically attached around the lower part of the pivot bolt 1-3. The torsion spring 1-4 is used to center the arm on its own after the seismic force has dissipated. The vibration isolation suspension bundle 2 supports the ceiling grid, filters stronger vibration frequencies, and is used to provide rotational flexibility during seismic activity. The vibration isolation suspension bundle includes a top suspension bundle 2-1, an isolation member 2-2, a radial spring 2-3, a normal spring 2-4, and a bottom suspension bundle 2-5. The top suspension bundle 2-1 is connected to the structural plate of the building, and a cylindrical assembly is provided at the end of the top suspension bundle 2-1. The radial spring 2-3 is provided around the cylindrical assembly, returns to its central position after seismic displacement, and the normal spring (2-4) under the radial spring 2-3 is used to support the bottom suspension bundle 2-5 and further filter vibrations. The radial spring 2-3 is designed for this system, provides important vibration isolation, returns the suspension bundle assembly to its position after a seismic event, and enhances the stability of the ceiling.

[0021] In a specific embodiment, the bottom plate 1-1 is attached to the ceiling structure in order to maintain the position of the damper.

[0022] In a specific embodiment, the bottom plate 1-1 consists of two rectangular plates and serves as the mounting point for the entire assembly.

[0023] In a specific embodiment, the pivot bolt 1-3 is provided with a nut and a washer 1-5, the nut and washer 1-5 withstand the applied force and ensure the stability of the assembly, and the fastener fixes the bolt in place.

[0024] In a specific embodiment, the ceiling lattice frame consists of four ceiling panels. These frames are interconnected using friction dampers 1 and anchored to the wall to provide stability and flexibility.

[0025] In a specific embodiment, the dimensions of each ceiling panel are 600mm x 600mm.

[0026] In a specific embodiment, the pivot bolts 1-3 are used as pivot points at both ends of the connecting arm 1-2.

[0027] In a specific embodiment, the bottom support beam 2-5 provides vertical support and also contributes to the vibration isolation process, transmitting filtered vibration energy from the isolation member 2-2 to the ceiling, thereby ensuring the overall stability and elasticity of the ceiling system.

[0028] In a specific embodiment, the top support beam 2-1 is connected to the structural panel of the building, and the isolation member 2-2 is supported by anchoring the upper part of the top support beam.

[0029] In a specific embodiment, the cylindrical assembly at the end of the top suspension bundle 2-1 moves within the radial spring 2-3, and this movement is counteracted by returning the cylindrical assembly to its original position.

[0030] The operating principle of the present invention is as follows: The friction damper 1 operates like scissors, moving in conjunction with the movement of the connecting arm 1-2 to absorb and dissipate energy. When subjected to earthquakes or lateral forces, the connecting arm 1-2 rotates around the pivot bolt 1-3 at its end. Friction between the moving parts and resistance from the torsion spring 1-4 dissipate energy and reduce the effects of vibration. The torsion spring 1-4 is located below the nut, ensuring it is concentric with the pivot bolt 1-3, and its end is fixed to the spring arm. As the connecting arm 1-2 rotates, the torsion spring 1-4 is wound and unwound, generating a restorative force. After the force is removed, the torsion spring 1-4 returns the connecting arm 1-2 to its original position, ensuring the friction damper 1 is ready for subsequent movement. Mechanical friction occurs between the pivot joint and the surface, absorbing kinetic energy. The torsion spring 1-4 also serves as damping, providing a force to return to a controlled starting position by resisting sudden movements. During seismic activity, the top suspension beam 2-1 transmits vibrational energy to the isolation member 2-2. The cylindrical assembly at the end of the top suspension beam 2-1 moves within the radial spring, counteracting the movement by returning the assembly to its original position. Simultaneously, the normal spring 2-4 further absorbs and filters vibrations, significantly reducing their impact on the bottom suspension beam 2-5 and the ceiling structure. Such a double-spring mechanism is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the ceiling during and after an earthquake.

[0031] All components not described in detail in this embodiment are existing components that can be purchased through public channels.

[0032] The above-described embodiments are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand and use the invention. It will be apparent that those familiar with the art can readily modify these embodiments and apply the general principles described herein to other embodiments without requiring any creative work. Therefore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and all improvements and modifications made in accordance with the disclosure of the present invention without departing from the scope of the invention should be protected by those skilled in the art. [Explanation of symbols]

[0033] 1. Friction damper; 2. Vibration isolation support; 1-1. Bottom plate; 1-2. Connecting arm; 1-3. Pivot bolt; 1-4. Torsion spring; 1-5. Nut and washer; 2-1. Top support; 2-2. Isolation member; 2-3. Radial spring; 2-4. Standard spring; 2-5. Bottom support.

Claims

1. It includes a friction damper (1) and a vibration isolation suspension bundle (2), The friction damper (1) is located at the connection point of the ceiling lattice frame, dissipates seismic energy, prevents damage to the joints, and allows the ceiling lattice frame to move towards the center after an earthquake. The friction damper (1) includes a connecting arm (1-2) and a torsion spring (1-4), the connecting arm (1-2) being connected to the bottom plate (1-1) via a pivot bolt (1-3), The scissor-type motion absorbs earthquake energy, and the torsion springs (1-4) are mounted concentrically around the lower part of the pivot bolts (1-3). Torsion springs (1-4) are used to bring the arms towards the center after the seismic force has dissipated. The vibration isolation suspension bundle (2) is used to support the ceiling grid, filter stronger vibration frequencies, and provide rotational flexibility during seismic activity. The vibration isolation suspension bundle comprises a top suspension bundle (2-1), an isolation member (2-2), a radial spring (2-3), and a regular spring (2-4). It includes bottom support beams (2-5), the top support beam (2-1) is connected to the building's structural panel, and a cylindrical assembly is provided at the end of the top support beam (2-1). The radial springs (2-3) are provided around the cylindrical assembly and return to their central position after seismic displacement. A novel low-damage ceiling system characterized by the use of conventional springs (2-4) beneath radial springs (2-3) to support bottom suspension bundles (2-5) and further filtering vibrations.

2. The novel low-damage ceiling system according to claim 1, characterized in that the bottom plate (1-1) is attached to the ceiling structure in order to maintain the position of the damper.

3. The novel low-damage ceiling system according to claim 1, characterized in that the base plate (1-1) consists of two rectangular plates and serves as a mounting point for the entire assembly.

4. The pivot bolt (1-3) is provided with a nut and a washer (1-5), the nut and washer (1-5) withstand the applied force and ensure the stability of the assembly, and the fastener fixes the bolt in place, as described in claim 1.

5. The new low-damage ceiling system according to claim 1, characterized in that the ceiling lattice frame consists of four ceiling panels.

6. The novel low-damage ceiling system according to claim 5, characterized in that each of the aforementioned ceiling panels has dimensions of 600 mm * 600 mm.

7. The novel low-damage ceiling system according to claim 1, characterized in that the pivot bolts (1-3) are pivot points at both ends of the connecting arm (1-2).

8. The novel low-damage ceiling system according to claim 1, characterized in that the bottom suspension beam (2-5) provides vertical support and also contributes to the vibration isolation process, and the bottom suspension beam (2-5) transmits filtered vibration energy from the isolation member (2-2) to the ceiling, ensuring the overall stability and elasticity of the ceiling system.

9. The novel low-damage ceiling system according to claim 1, characterized in that the top suspension support (2-1) is connected to the structural panel of the building, and the isolation member (2-2) is supported by anchoring the upper part of the top suspension support (2-1).

10. The novel low-damage ceiling system according to claim 1, characterized in that the cylindrical assembly at the end of the top suspension bundle (2-1) moves within the radial spring (2-3), and the movement is offset by returning the cylindrical assembly to its original position.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Modular assembly structure of suspended ceiling

    CN213682766U