Electrified Ceiling Grid for Low Voltage DC Power Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional suspended ceiling structures are inefficient in distributing low voltage direct current (DC) electrical power, as individual power supplies at electronic devices consume significant power in standby mode and lack load averaging strategies, leading to increased energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
The grid elements of a suspended ceiling are repurposed to serve as a carrier for conductive materials such as conductive inks, metal foils, or wires, allowing for the distribution of low voltage electrical power by integrating conductors within the grid structure, either symmetrically or asymmetrically, to support electronic devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If individual power supplies are located at each electronic device, then each device can be powered independently, but energy consumption increases due to standby mode usage and lack of load averaging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple individual power supplies into a single centralized DC power source that serves all electronic devices through the electrified ceiling grid. This consolidation enables load averaging across multiple devices and eliminates standby power consumption at individual device locations, directly resolving the contradiction between independent power supply reliability and energy efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The ceiling grid structure is given multiple functions: it continues to provide its traditional structural support role while simultaneously serving as an electrified power distribution network. This multi-functionality allows the system to maintain device independence through accessible power points while achieving centralized power management benefits, resolving the contradiction between reliability and energy consumption
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional individual power supplies are used at each device, then device independence is maintained, but standby power consumption is significant
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically distributes power through the electrified ceiling grid, allowing devices to draw power on-demand from the centralized source rather than maintaining continuous standby operation. The grid provides flexible power access points that adapt to actual device needs, maintaining device independence while eliminating wasteful standby consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The centralized power system incorporates load monitoring and distribution control that responds to actual device power needs. This feedback mechanism ensures power is delivered only when and where needed, maintaining device independence while minimizing energy loss by eliminating unnecessary standby operation at distributed power supplies
Data Source
AI summary
An elongated grid tee for supplying low voltage power on a suspended ceiling comprising at least two electrically conductive paths electrically insulated from each other, extending lengthwise of the tee, and accessible for receiving or supplying electrical power at numerous locations along the length of the tee.