Universal Ceiling Panel Clip System for Flush Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ceiling panel systems require different panel types, increasing production costs and complicating installation, as adjacent panels are connected by hook-like projections that need specific openings.
Innovation Solution
A ceiling sail system where all panels are of the same design and are mirror-symmetrical, allowing for precise alignment and simplified installation, with clamps and suspension points ensuring horizontal alignment and flush surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If different panel types with hook-like projections are used to connect adjacent panels, then the connection between panels is achieved, but production costs increase and installation becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making all ceiling panels identical in design, eliminating the need for different panel types. Each panel can serve multiple positions in the ceiling grid (corner, edge, or interior panels) through rotational installation, simplifying both production and installation while maintaining reliable connections through the standardized clip mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the functions of multiple specialized panel types into a single universal panel design. By combining all connection and alignment functions into one standardized panel type that works in all positions, the system reduces complexity while achieving the same connection reliability through the integrated clip engagement mechanism
2Manufacturing precision
If different panel types are used for various positions in the ceiling grid, then precise alignment is achieved, but production costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a universal panel design that can be installed in any position (corner, edge, or interior) by rotating the panel to the appropriate orientation. The standardized clip connection system ensures precise alignment regardless of position, eliminating the need for multiple specialized panel types and significantly reducing production costs
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs asymmetric features on the standardized panels, such as the L-shaped connection elements and positioning protrusions, that allow the same panel design to achieve precise alignment in different orientations. These asymmetric elements ensure proper geometric fitting when the panel is rotated to its correct position in the ceiling grid
3Reliability
If hook-like projections are used to connect adjacent panels, then the connection mechanism is established, but installation becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the connection function from the panel edges themselves and transfers it to separate, standardized clips that engage with the panels. This separation allows for simpler panel designs without complex edge features, while the clips provide reliable connection through their engagement with positioning protrusions and recesses on the panels
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces clips as intermediary connection elements between adjacent panels. These clips serve as mediators that simplify the connection process by providing a standardized, tool-free engagement mechanism with positioning features that guide installation, eliminating the need for complex hook-like projections on the panels themselves
Data Source
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AI summary
A ceiling sail consists of a field of adjacent, aligned rectangular panels (laa-lcc) arranged in several adjacent longitudinal rows (laalac, lba-lbc, lca-lcc) and a holding device comprising several longitudinal beams (2, 2a-2c) and connecting beams (5b, 5ba-5bc, 5ca-5cc) adjoining these, each extending in a transverse direction and attached to threaded rods anchored in a room ceiling. An anchor plate (laa) is suspended horizontally from two main beams (2, 2a), and the other panels (lab, lac) of the longitudinal row containing it are each tiltable about a transverse axis on a main beam (2b; 2c). The other panels (Iba, Ica) of a transverse row containing the anchor plate (laa) are each suspended from two connecting beams (5b, 5ba, 5c, 5ca) so that they can be tilted about a longitudinal axis.The remaining plates (1bb, lbc, leb, 1cc) are each suspended from a single connecting support (5bb; 5bc; 5cb; 5cc) and can be tilted around a longitudinal and transverse axis. Each plate is connected to each adjacent plate by two attachable clamps (4). This also fixes the other plates (lab, lac, lba, lbc) and the remaining plates (lbb, lbc, leb, 1cc) in a horizontal position.