Ceiling Grid Connector System for Fire and Seismic Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing metal frame systems for suspended ceilings face challenges in fire resistance and seismic stability, particularly due to the inability to absorb thermal expansion without deformation, and require precise mechanical positioning and high solidity, which are incompatible with plastic coatings, and existing solutions complicate assembly and lack precision.
Innovation Solution
A two-part connector system comprising a primary clip and a secondary clip, where the primary clip ensures mechanical solidity and the secondary clip provides precision positioning, with a fusible means to separate during a fire, allowing for significant expansion absorption while maintaining zero or minimal clearance in normal conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a single connector design is used to ensure mechanical solidity, then strength is improved, but precision positioning deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two distinct parts: a first connector component (U-shaped clip) that provides mechanical solidity and connection strength, and a second connector component (adjustable clip) that provides precision positioning and clearance adjustment. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function without compromise.
2Reliability
If plastic coating is applied to allow expansion absorption, then fire resistance is improved, but seismic stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The solution changes the physical state and material properties of the connector components. Both the first and second connector components are made of elastic metal material with specific elastic limits, allowing controlled deformation during fire conditions while maintaining structural integrity for seismic stability, eliminating the need for plastic coatings.
3Reliability
If clearance is increased to allow expansion, then fire resistance is improved, but assembly precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The second connector component is designed with adjustable characteristics, allowing the clearance to be dynamically adapted. The component can be positioned at different locations along the secondary profile, enabling the clearance to be optimized for both normal assembly precision and fire expansion conditions. The elastic nature of the components allows dynamic deformation during fire without permanent damage.
4Ease of manufacture
If a simple hook connector is used, then ease of manufacture is improved, but interconnection capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The first connector component (U-shaped clip) serves multiple functions: it connects to the main profile, provides mechanical strength, and interfaces with the second connector component. The second connector component provides both positioning and adjustable clearance. Together, they create a universal connector system that handles connection, positioning, adjustment, and fire expansion in a single integrated design.
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 connector system achieves precise assembly with minimal clearance, enhanced seismic stability, and effective fire resistance by allowing significant expansion absorption without compromising stability or aesthetics, meeting anti-seismic strength requirements and ensuring the ceiling remains intact during fires.
Implementation Method 1
a fusible means capable of melting at the temperature of a fire to separate said two parts
Implementation Method 2
The secondary clip (11) comprises an elastic portion (32) capable of deforming without compromising the connection provided by the first clip (10)
Implementation Method 3
allowing for significant expansion absorption while maintaining zero or minimal clearance in normal conditions
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~3E
Figure 4~4B
AI summary
This metal ceiling grid comprises primary (2) and secondary (4) profiles connected to each other perpendicularly by connectors. These connectors are associated with one category of profile and are engaged in slots cut into the other perpendicular profiles to receive ceiling tiles (5). The profiles bear a marking of slots consisting of symbols that repeat sequentially along their length and on each of their two faces. The spacing between two identical symbols in two adjacent sequences is equal to a given tile module, and the marking is identical on each face of the profiles, beginning with the same symbol on the same end face.