Ceiling Grid Strut With Non-Structural Infill For Load And Aesthetics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current ceiling grids lack enhanced load-bearing capacity and aesthetic appearance, and there is a need for structural and non-structural members that can be securely attached to support various accessories at any location along the struts, while maintaining an architectural finish when viewed from underneath.
Innovation Solution
The design includes elongated structural ceiling grid members with open-ended upper and lower portions and flanges, featuring hooks and flanges that provide secure attachment points for other structural members and accessories, allowing for improved load-bearing capacity and aesthetic appeal, along with non-structural members that can be readily attached to the structural members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional ceiling grid members are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the load-bearing capacity and aesthetic appearance are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The strut is divided into two distinct parts: a structural member providing load-bearing capacity and a separate infill member providing aesthetic appearance. The structural member contains an open cross-section that receives the infill member, allowing both functions to be optimized independently while working together as a unified assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The ceiling grid member combines two different components with complementary functions: a structural component (typically metal) that provides mechanical strength and load-bearing capacity, and an infill component (can be metal, plastic, or other materials) that provides aesthetic finish and architectural appearance. This composite approach allows each material to be selected for its optimal properties.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional ceiling grid members are used, then the structure is simple, but accessories cannot be securely attached at any location along the struts
Solution Approach 1:
The structural member is designed with features that serve multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains the infill member for aesthetics, and includes attachment mechanisms (such as integrated clips, slots, or surface areas) that enable accessories to be secured at any location along the strut. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate attachment components.
3Shape
If non-structural members are added for aesthetic finish, then the architectural appearance is improved, but the attachment security and reliability are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The infill member is nested within the structural member, with the open cross-section of the structural member specifically designed to receive and retain the infill member. This nesting arrangement ensures that the aesthetic component is securely held by the structural component, maintaining both appearance and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
An elongated structural ceiling grid member including an open-ended upper portion, an open-ended lower portion, and first and second flanges. The open-ended upper section is formed by a floor and a first set of second parallel and spaced sidewalls extending from and substantially perpendicular to the floor. The open-ended upper portion has an opening opposite the floor and defined by the first and second parallel and spaced sidewalls. The open-ended lower portion is formed by a ceiling and a second set of parallel and spaced sidewalls that extend from and are substantially perpendicular to the ceiling. The open-ended lower portion has a second opening opposite the ceiling and defined by the third and fourth parallel and spaced sidewalls. The first flange is attached to and extends perpendicular to the third parallel and spaced sidewall and the second flange is attached to and extends perpendicular to the fourth parallel and spaced sidewall.