Ceiling Carrier With Segmented Support Members

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing panel systems lack modularity, allowing only one type of panel to be coupled to a carrier component at a specific location, limiting aesthetic variations in ceiling systems.

Innovation Solution

A carrier component with multiple support members featuring distinct mounting elements at different axial positions, enabling the attachment of various panel types at different elevations, allowing for multiple aesthetic configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a carrier component has a single mounting element at a specific location, then the structure is simple, but only one type of panel can be coupled to the carrier component, limiting aesthetic variation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepanel type variationVSAvoidcarrier component structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The carrier component is segmented into multiple support members, each with distinct mounting elements at different axial positions. This segmentation allows different sections of the carrier to accommodate different panel types independently, resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity by creating modular attachment points rather than a monolithic structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention adds the axial dimension to the mounting system by positioning mounting elements at different axial locations along the support members. This dimensional expansion allows panels to be coupled at varying heights/positions, enabling aesthetic variation without requiring entirely different carrier structures

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple mounting elements are added to support members, then multiple panel types can be attached at different positions, but the carrier component structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaesthetic configurationVSAvoidnumber of mounting elements

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each support member is designed as a universal component that can accommodate multiple panel types through its multiple mounting elements. The same support member structure serves multiple functions by providing different attachment points, reducing the need for entirely separate components for each panel type while maintaining versatility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple mounting elements are merged into a single integrated support member structure rather than being separate components. This consolidation achieves aesthetic versatility while controlling complexity by combining multiple attachment functions into unified structural elements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11946249B2Ceiling system

Publication Date: 2024.04.02 AWI LICENSING LLC

AI summary

A ceiling system including a carrier component and at least one removably mounted thereto. The carrier component may extend along a first longitudinal axis and may have a body portion and a plurality of support members extending from the body portion in a spaced apart manner along the first longitudinal axis. The at least one panel may be removably mounted to the carrier component by simultaneous engagement with a first support member of the plurality of support members and a second support member of the plurality of support members. At least a portion of the first and second support members may be located within a cavity of the at least one panel when the at least one panel is mounted to the carrier component.