Ceiling Grid Movable Flanges for Panel Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling grid systems are difficult to install and remove without damaging ceiling panels due to fixed flanges, which require awkward maneuvering and can lead to scratches or breakage, especially in confined spaces with obstructions like light fixtures and pipes.
Innovation Solution
A ceiling grid system with movable panel support members that can be rotated out of their support positions, allowing for easy installation or removal of ceiling panels from below, reducing the need for additional space and minimizing the risk of damage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If fixed flanged surfaces are used to support ceiling panels, then the ceiling grid system provides stable support, but it becomes difficult to install or remove ceiling panels without damaging them
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the flanged surfaces movable rather than fixed. The flanges are designed to be movable relative to the runners, allowing them to be positioned to support ceiling panels during installation, then moved out of the way to facilitate panel removal without damage. This dynamic adjustment resolves the contradiction between providing stable support and enabling easy panel installation/removal.
2Reliability
If the opening size is made smaller to fit ceiling panels, then the panels are securely held, but it requires awkward maneuvering and increases the risk of panel damage
Solution Approach 1:
The movable flanged surfaces allow the opening effective size to be dynamically adjusted. During installation, the flanges are positioned to create a secure fit for the panel. During removal, the flanges are moved to enlarge the effective opening, allowing panels to be maneuvered in and out more easily without awkward positioning or risk of damage to fragile materials.
3Productivity
If the clearance distance is minimized to maximize occupied space, then vertical space is optimized, but it reduces the space available for maneuvering panels during installation and removal
Solution Approach 1:
The movable flanged surfaces enable the system to adapt to the limited clearance space. By moving the flanges out of the way, the system facilitates panel installation and removal even in the reduced space, eliminating the need for additional clearance distance while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the support function from the panel retention function. The movable flanges can be independently positioned to provide support when needed and moved aside when panel access is required, allowing the system to function effectively in confined spaces without compromising either space utilization or ease of operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A ceiling grid system as part of a suspended ceiling having a plurality of ceiling panels includes main runners and cross-runners oriented transverse to each other and forming a two-dimensional array having openings, each opening defining a position within the suspended ceiling in which a ceiling panel is disposed, the main runners and the cross-runners being configured to attach to each other and to be fixed in the horizontal plane in the physical space, each one of a plurality of panel support members is connected with a main runner or a cross-runner and is configured to support one of the ceiling panels, each panel support member is movable in a rotatable or linear manner with respect to the main runner or the cross-runner to facilitate the installation or removal of one of the ceiling panel with respect to its predetermined position within the suspended ceiling.