Suspended Ceiling Securing Members for Self-Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing suspended ceiling systems face challenges in aligning and positioning heavier panels, maintaining uniform spacing, and require access to the plenum space for installation and removal, making them time-consuming and difficult to install.
Innovation Solution
A suspended ceiling system with a grid system and securing members that allow self-alignment and controlled spacing between substrates, enabling quick installation of heavier panels without disturbing adjacent panels or accessing the plenum space, and providing seismic stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Weight of moving object
If multiple support cables are used to suspend heavier panels, then the ceiling system can support heavier materials, but alignment and positioning of adjacent panels becomes difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
A grid system acts as an intermediary between the support cables and the panels. The grid members (primary and secondary tees) provide reference edges that facilitate precise alignment and positioning of panels, eliminating the difficulty of direct cable-to-panel attachment while supporting heavier materials
2Weight of moving object
If multiple support cables are used to suspend heavier panels, then the ceiling system can support heavier materials, but installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grid system is assembled beforehand with primary and secondary tees positioned to create predetermined spacing and alignment references. This preliminary configuration allows panels to be quickly installed by simply attaching them to the pre-positioned grid members, significantly reducing installation time compared to direct cable attachment
3Reliability
If access to plenum space is required for panel removal and reinstallation, then panel support is achieved, but accessibility and maintenance become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The ceiling system is segmented into removable panel units that can be independently accessed and replaced. The grid system provides continuous support while allowing individual panels to be removed and reinstalled from below without disturbing adjacent panels or requiring plenum access, greatly improving maintenance accessibility
4Ease of manufacture
If a standard 2'x4' grid pattern is used, then installation is simplified, but aesthetic flexibility is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The grid system uses adjustable secondary tees that can be positioned at variable intervals along the primary tees. This dynamic configuration allows the same grid system to create different panel sizes and patterns (such as staggered arrangements) while maintaining installation simplicity, providing both ease of manufacture and aesthetic versatility
Data Source
AI summary
A ceiling system which includes a substrate and securing members configured to engage a grid system to mount the substrate to the grid system. The securing members may include a mounting flange positioned with its bottom surface adjacent to the substrate. The mounting flange may be coupled to the substrate via fasteners. The securing members may further include a positioning member protruding from a top surface of the mounting flange and terminating in a distal edge. The positioning member may have a first side edge and a second side edge. The securing members may include a grid engagement member extending from the distal edge of the positioning member. The grid engagement member may be located centrally between the first and second side edges of the positioning member. The grid engagement member may have a U-shaped engagement portion configured to engage a grid member of the grid system.