Suspended Ceiling Connection Element Profile Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suspended ceiling systems face challenges in securely holding profiles in place during installation, leading to potential drops and safety hazards due to the complexity and instability of current coupling mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A connection element with a design featuring a first and second base portion, end portions, gripping flanges, and abutment flanges that securely interconnect profiles with a torsionally rigid and flexible configuration, allowing for easy installation and secure positioning of profiles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If coupling brackets with retaining tabs are used to connect secondary profiles to primary profiles, then the profiles can be interconnected, but the installation process becomes hazardous and complex due to the risk of profiles dropping before tabs are bent into place
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element is pre-configured with gripping flanges that automatically engage with the primary profile upon insertion, establishing secure positioning before the installer needs to perform any additional actions. This preliminary engagement eliminates the hazard of profiles dropping during installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element automatically secures itself to the primary profile through the gripping flanges that engage with the profile's flange upon insertion. The element performs its own positioning and securing function without requiring separate retaining tabs or tools, making the installation process safer and simpler.
2Reliability
If complex coupling mechanisms with multiple components are used to secure profiles, then profile positioning can be achieved, but the device complexity increases and installation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element integrates multiple functions into a single component: the body provides structural support, gripping flanges provide automatic engagement with the primary profile, and abutment flanges provide additional securing. This merging eliminates the need for separate retaining tabs, pins, or other fastening components, simplifying both the device and installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element serves multiple functions simultaneously: it connects the secondary profile to the primary profile, automatically secures itself through gripping flanges, provides structural support through its body, and prevents profile displacement through abutment flanges. This multi-functionality reduces the overall number of components needed in the system.
3Strength
If connection elements extend far from the primary profile, then they can provide adequate support, but they interfere with ceiling tile placement and the compact design is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The connection element concentrates its support function at the local intersection point where the secondary profile meets the primary profile. The gripping flanges and abutment flanges provide secure engagement right at the connection point, eliminating the need for extended support structures that would protrude into the ceiling tile space.
Solution Approach 2:
The connection element utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning gripping flanges and abutment flanges at different heights along the primary profile. This vertical arrangement provides adequate support and securing in the vertical dimension without requiring horizontal extension that would interfere with ceiling tile placement.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3a~3b
Figure 4a~4b
AI summary
A connection element (100) for interconnecting a first profile (10) having an inverted T-shaped cross-section and an extension along a longitudinal direction (L) with a second profile (20) having an inverted T-shaped cross-section and an extension along a transversal direction (T), the second profile (20) crossing the extension (L) of the first profile (10) above the first profile (10),