Suspended Ceiling Grid Connection Plate Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suspended ceiling systems require specialized components and substantial installation time and expertise, particularly for complex installations, and are not cost-effective for non-rectilinear grid systems.
Innovation Solution
A suspended ceiling system with a grid network featuring intermediate and edge nodes, connection plates with guide tracks and mechanical fasteners for aligning grid members, and torsion springs for suspending panels, allowing for flexible geometric configurations and reduced installation complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If specialized components and junction members with vertical slots are used to secure grid members, then structural integrity is achieved, but installation time and expertise requirements increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
The connection plate merges multiple functions into a single component: it provides structural support, aligns grid members through guide tracks, and secures panels via connection slots. This consolidation eliminates the need for separate junction members with vertical slots, reducing installation complexity while maintaining structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide tracks on the connection plate serve as an intermediary mechanism that automatically aligns grid members during installation. This intermediary alignment feature reduces the need for manual positioning and specialized installation expertise, thereby reducing installation time without compromising structural strength.
2Manufacturing precision
If modified T bar systems with alignment features are used, then panel alignment is improved, but adaptability to complex non-rectilinear ceiling systems is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The connection plate is designed as a universal component that can accommodate various grid member configurations through its guide tracks. The same connection plate design works for both rectilinear and complex non-rectilinear ceiling systems, providing both alignment precision and adaptability to different geometric configurations.
Solution Approach 2:
The guide tracks on the connection plates provide dynamic alignment capabilities that adapt to different geometric configurations. The system can accommodate various predetermined geometric configurations including rectilinear, triangular, and other complex patterns, allowing the same component to maintain panel alignment across diverse ceiling designs.
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple connection plates with guide tracks and mechanical fasteners are used, then grid member alignment precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection plate is segmented into distinct functional zones: guide tracks for alignment, connection slots for panel attachment, and mechanical fastener locations. This segmentation allows each feature to perform its specific function efficiently while keeping the overall component design relatively simple and manufacturable.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system provides improved structural integrity, simplifies installation, reduces the need for specialized expertise, and is cost-effective, enabling efficient assembly and adaptation to complex ceiling systems.
Implementation Method 1
Each connection plate between adjacent guide tracks includes generally opposed connection slots for receiving support springs suspending ceiling panels beneath the grid system
Data Source
AI summary
A suspended ceiling system uses a grid system having series of intermediate nodes interior to a peripheral edge of the ceiling system and a series of edge nodes at an edge of the grid system. Each intermediate node is defined by a connection plate having a series of guide tracks for receiving and cooperating with an upper edge of the ceiling grid members to align the grid members in a predetermined geometric configuration. Mechanical fasteners secure the connection plate and the ceiling grid members in any of the guide tracks. Each connection plate between adjacent guide tracks includes generally opposed connection slots for receiving support springs suspending ceiling panels beneath the grid system. The connection plate simplifies installation and avoids incorrect placement of the grid members. Preferably the grid system includes at least five grid members equally spaced about a center point of the connection plate. In a further preferred structure at least six grid members are secured to a connection plate and the ceiling panels are of a triangular shape.