Ceiling Mounting Clip for Uniform Hidden Grid Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling systems with support grids are difficult to install uniformly, as the mounting hardware does not effectively conceal the support grid and facilitate even installation.
Innovation Solution
A mounting clip with a keyhole design, positioning members, and hook members, along with a fastener and torsion spring, is used to securely attach ceiling panels to support members, allowing for uniform and concealed installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If traditional mounting hardware is used to attach ceiling panels to support grids, then the ceiling panels can be installed, but the support grid remains visible and the installation is difficult to make uniform
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting clip features a nested structure where the flange is inserted into the support grid channel, positioning members are integrated into the flange body, and hook members are attached to the positioning members. This nested arrangement allows the mounting hardware to conceal the support grid while maintaining installation uniformity without requiring overly complex separate components
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting clip combines multiple functions into a single integrated component: the flange provides structural support and grid engagement, the positioning members ensure precise panel alignment, and the hook members secure the panel. This merging of functions into one component simplifies the overall mounting hardware design while achieving both uniform installation and grid concealment
2Shape
If mounting hardware is designed to conceal the support grid, then aesthetic appearance improves, but installation becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting clip is pre-configured with positioning members that have predetermined geometries designed to automatically align with corresponding features on the ceiling panel during installation. The flange is pre-formed with the correct shape to fit into the support grid channel, and hook members are pre-attached in the correct orientation. This preliminary preparation of the mounting hardware geometry enables installers to simply snap the components together without requiring complex alignment procedures, thus maintaining ease of installation while achieving grid concealment
3Manufacturing precision
If positioning members are added to improve alignment, then installation uniformity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning members are not separate components but are integrally formed as part of the mounting clip flange body. This merging of the positioning members with the main clip structure provides precise alignment functionality without increasing the number of discrete components that need to be handled during installation, thus improving alignment precision without significantly increasing device complexity
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 enables easy alignment and secure fastening of ceiling panels, ensuring uniform installation and concealment of the support grid, improving the overall installation process and aesthetic appearance of the ceiling system.
Implementation Method 1
at least one torsion spring
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a mounting clip comprising: a mounting flange comprising a top surface opposite a bottom surface and a perimeter extending between the top surface and the bottom surface; a first positioning member extending upwards from the mounting flange; a second positioning member extending upwards from the mounting flange; a first hook member extending from the first positioning member; a second hook member extending from the second positioning member; wherein the mounting flange comprises a keyhole located inset from the perimeter of the mounting flange and extending continuously from the top surface to the bottom surface of the mounting flange.