Modular Acoustic Ceiling Panel with Hinged Suspension
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing acoustic ceiling systems require customized designs, are time-consuming and resource-intensive to install, and often fail to provide both effective acoustic improvements and aesthetically pleasing environments due to their complexity and variability in shape and configuration.
Innovation Solution
A modular dynamic acoustic system featuring a movable panel array with hinged and suspended panel members, adjustable suspension members, and an actuation mechanism that allows for customizable configuration to modify acoustic and aesthetic characteristics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If customized acoustic elements are designed for each unique project, then acoustic performance is optimized for the specific environment, but manufacturing time and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic ceiling system is divided into modular panel members that can be independently manufactured and then assembled in different configurations. Each panel is a standardized unit that can be combined in various arrangements to suit different acoustic requirements, eliminating the need for custom manufacturing for each project while still achieving project-specific acoustic optimization through configuration rather than fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel members are designed as universal, standardized components that can serve multiple functions and be used in various configurations across different projects. The same standardized panel can be used in different shapes, sizes, and arrangements to address diverse acoustic challenges, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining acoustic performance through design flexibility rather than custom fabrication.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different mounting and actuating structures are used for varying panel configurations, then adaptability to different environments is improved, but manufacturing costs and storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A single universal mounting structure is designed that can accommodate multiple panel configurations and environmental requirements. This standardized mounting mechanism replaces the need for multiple different mounting structures, reducing manufacturing complexity and storage requirements while maintaining the ability to adapt to various acoustic and aesthetic needs through configuration rather than structural variety.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates dynamic or adjustable mounting mechanisms that allow the same standardized structure to adapt to different configurations. The mounting structure can be adjusted or reconfigured to accommodate varying panel arrangements, shapes, and acoustic requirements, providing environmental adaptability without requiring multiple specialized mounting structures.
3Adaptability or versatility
If extensive time and resources are allocated to installation and configuration, then the system can be customized to specific environmental requirements, but installation efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses pre-manufactured modular panel members that are ready for assembly, reducing on-site fabrication time. The standardized panels can be quickly installed and configured to meet specific environmental requirements without requiring extensive customization during installation, thereby improving installation efficiency while maintaining environmental adaptability through configuration rather than custom fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel members and mounting structures are pre-manufactured and pre-configured to standard specifications, with the flexibility to be arranged in different configurations during installation. This preliminary standardization reduces on-site work requirements and installation time while still allowing customization for specific environmental needs through arrangement and configuration rather than custom manufacturing.
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 system enables efficient acoustic adjustments and enhanced visual appeal with reduced manufacturing and storage costs, allowing for quick configuration and adaptation to different environments while improving sound absorption and aesthetic appeal.
Implementation Method 1
at least one hinge positioned along the at least one edge, and at least one mounting structure. The panel members are operably coupled with at least one adjacent panel member via the at least one hinge
Implementation Method 2
Each of the plurality of suspension members is operably coupled with the support structure and the at least one mounting structure of one of the plurality of panel members to secure the movable panel array to the support structure. Each of the suspension members is movable to modify a configuration of the movable panel array.
Implementation Method 3
the body of the plurality of panel members is constructed from a sound-absorbing material
Data Source
AI summary
A modular dynamic acoustic system for use in connection with an indoor environment includes a movable panel array, a support structure, and a plurality of suspension members. The movable panel array includes a plurality of panel members, each of which including a body defining at least one edge, at least one hinge positioned along the at least one edge, and at least one mounting structure. The panel members are operably coupled with at least one adjacent panel member via the at least one hinge. Each of the plurality of suspension members is operably coupled with the support structure and the at least one mounting structure of one of the plurality of panel members to secure the movable panel array to the support structure. Each of the suspension members is movable to modify a configuration of the movable panel array.