Threaded Ceiling Lamp Mounting Device for Stretch Ceilings

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing devices for mounting lamps on the underside of stretch ceilings face challenges in absorbing weight without causing unsightly bulges or tilting, particularly due to their inability to effectively handle horizontal shearing forces and complexity in assembly.

Innovation Solution

A two-part cylindrical holding device with internal and external threads allows for adjustable height and secure mounting, featuring a step-like bottom for accommodating lamps of various diameters and a design that prevents tilting, using concentric circular rings for adaptable mounting surfaces and a simple assembly process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a floating mounting system with a screw height adjustment element is used, then the device can adapt to stretch ceiling movements, but it cannot absorb horizontal shearing forces and the mounting plate may tilt

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptation to stretch ceiling movementsVSAvoidhorizontal stability and anti-tilting
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSStability of the object's composition

Solution Approach 1:

The device is divided into an upper holding part and a lower holding part that can move independently. The lower holding part is disengageably connectable to the upper holding part, allowing it to move with the stretch ceiling while the upper part remains fixed, thus adapting to ceiling movements while maintaining stability through the segmented design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

A height adjustment element acts as an intermediary between the upper and lower holding parts. This element allows vertical adjustment to accommodate ceiling movements while the geometric constraint (such as a conical surface) prevents horizontal tilting, mediating between adaptability and stability requirements

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If a complex mechanical system with multiple parts is used, then the device can provide height adjustment and floating mounting, but it becomes complicated to manufacture and assemble

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveheight adjustment capabilityVSAvoidnumber of individual parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The upper holding part, lower holding part, and height adjustment element are combined into a single integrated device that can be manufactured as one piece. The disengageable connection between upper and lower parts provides the necessary adjustability while maintaining a simple overall structure that is easy to manufacture and assemble

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The holding device is designed to perform multiple functions with a single structure: it provides fixed mounting (upper part), floating mounting (lower part), and height adjustment (through disengageable connection). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components for each function, reducing overall device complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Device complexity

If a single screw connection is used for height adjustment, then the structure is simple, but adjusting the height by turning the screw is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural simplicityVSAvoidheight adjustment ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The height adjustment element incorporates a conical surface that engages with a corresponding conical surface on the lower holding part. This conical geometry provides mechanical advantage, allowing easy adjustment of height through rotational movement while maintaining structural simplicity. The tapered surfaces facilitate smooth engagement and disengagement

Inventive Principle:
Principle #14Spheroidality (Curvature)

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 solution provides a stable, easy-to-install, and adaptable mounting system that absorbs both vertical and horizontal forces, ensuring a flat ceiling surface and preventing bulges or warping, while being suitable for lamps of different sizes and designs.

Implementation Method 1

The holding device (1) comprises an upper holding part (2) and a lower holding part (3), wherein the lower holding part (3) can be screwed into the upper holding part (2) by means of internal and external threads

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThread mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentEP2357401B1Device for attaching a light to the underside of a ceiling cladding
Publication Date: 2014.09.03 KOLPER ROLAND
  • EP2357401B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP2357401B1 patent drawingFigure 3a~3b
  • EP2357401B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The device has an upper holding unit (1) formed as a cylindrical pipe section (3), where pipe section wall (4) is provided with a thread. A radially outward distant fixing flange (7) is provided at an upper end of the pipe section. A lower holding unit (2) has an open hollow cylinder (10), where hollow cylinder wall (11) is provided with a thread. The upper holding unit, the lower holding unit and an extension piece are made of plastic in a single piece.