Balanced Single-Layered Web Beam for Suspended Ceilings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Single-layered web beams for suspended ceilings are unbalanced under vertical loads, leading to twisting and bending issues, and require more metal to achieve the same strength as double-layered web beams, defeating the purpose of using less metal.
Innovation Solution
A single-layered web beam with a seam that secures one flange to the web and another flange cantilevered from the first, forming a balanced cross-section by continuous stitching, welding, or using adhesives, which binds the flanges together near the bottom of the web, allowing both flanges to be cantilevered from the web, eliminating twisting and bending.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single-layered web beam is used to reduce metal consumption, then the quantity of metal is reduced, but the beam becomes unbalanced under vertical loads causing twisting and bending
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies this principle by transitioning from a single-layered web to a double-layered web structure, adding a dimensional layer to achieve balance. The double-layered web allows both flanges to be cantilevered directly from the web in a balanced configuration, eliminating twisting and bending while maintaining reduced metal consumption compared to traditional single-layered designs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent addresses asymmetry by creating a symmetrical double-layered web structure where both layers are positioned to provide balanced support. This symmetry ensures that vertical loads are distributed evenly, preventing the beam from twisting or bending, while still using less metal than conventional single-layered beams.
2Quantity of substance
If a single-layered web beam is used to reduce metal consumption, then the quantity of metal is reduced, but the strength and stiffness are insufficient to support loads
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a second layer to the web structure, transitioning from single-layered to double-layered construction. This dimensional change provides additional structural support and stiffness, enabling the beam to carry loads effectively while still using less total metal than traditional single-layered beams through optimized geometry.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a composite structural system by combining two layers of web material with two flanges in a specific configuration. This composite arrangement provides enhanced strength and stiffness characteristics that allow the beam to support loads effectively while minimizing metal consumption through efficient structural design.
3Strength
If more and heavier material is used in single-layered web beams to achieve balance, then the strength and stiffness are sufficient, but the metal consumption increases defeating the purpose
Solution Approach 1:
The patent resolves this contradiction by adding a second layer to the web structure, which provides the necessary strength and stiffness without requiring heavier or more material. The double-layered configuration with properly positioned flanges achieves structural adequacy while maintaining lightweight construction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes structural parameters by changing from a single-layered to a double-layered web configuration. This parameter change allows the beam to achieve sufficient strength and stiffness with reduced material quantity, as the layered structure provides better load distribution and structural efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A balanced, single-layered web beam for a grid in a panel suspended ceiling, wherein opposing flanges at the bottom of the web are cantilevered directly from the bottom of the web. When the flanges are equally loaded by the panels, the resultant load on the beam passes through the vertical plane of the web, so the beam does not twist or bend.