Ceiling system with integrated equipment support structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing interior environments such as clean rooms and operating rooms face challenges with permanent air conditioning and ventilation systems, which are costly, inflexible, and require custom installations, limiting room configuration and increasing construction complexity.
Innovation Solution
A modular ventilation plenum system connected to a truss that can be easily installed and repositioned, allowing for flexible support of equipment and ventilation systems without permanent structural alterations, along with a suspended grid system for additional equipment support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent air conditioning and ventilation systems are installed as part of the building structure, then reliable ventilation is provided, but the system becomes expensive, inflexible, and difficult to reconfigure
Solution Approach 1:
The ventilation system is divided into separate modular plenum units that can be independently installed and repositioned, rather than being permanently integrated into the building structure. Each plenum unit functions as an independent ventilation module that can be moved to different locations as room needs change.
Solution Approach 2:
A suspended plenum structure acts as an intermediary between the building's permanent framework and the ventilation requirements. This intermediate structure provides the necessary ventilation functionality while remaining flexible and removable, decoupling the ventilation system from permanent structural integration.
2Manufacturing precision
If custom fabrication of ventilation structures is performed on-site during construction, then the system fits the specific building requirements, but construction costs increase and installation time extends
Solution Approach 1:
Ventilation plenum units are pre-fabricated at a factory before building construction is complete. These modular units are manufactured with precise dimensions and configurations in advance, then shipped to the building site for installation, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site custom fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The ventilation system is segmented into standardized modular units that can be mass-produced through factory manufacturing processes. This segmentation enables efficient pre-fabrication and simplifies on-site installation to mere assembly and attachment operations.
3Area of stationary object
If equipment is hung from the building structure through the ceiling, then floor space is preserved, but the installation becomes expensive and limits room configuration options
Solution Approach 1:
The equipment support function is merged with the suspended plenum structure. The plenum serves dual purposes: providing ventilation and supporting equipment through integrated truss systems. This combination eliminates the need for separate structural support elements and simplifies the overall installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The suspended plenum structure is designed as a multi-functional element that simultaneously provides ventilation, equipment support, and potential reconfiguration capability. This universal structure can accommodate various equipment types and room configurations without requiring separate dedicated support systems.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple parties provide equipment for these spaces, then diverse functionality is achieved, but coordination during design and construction becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The modular plenum system provides a universal mounting platform that can accommodate equipment from multiple different providers and manufacturers. Standardized attachment interfaces and flexible positioning capabilities allow diverse equipment to be integrated without complex coordination during design and construction phases.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular air-handling plenum for capable of supporting surgical apparatus or other objects is disclosed. The plenum is usually rectangular, may be formed of sheet metal, and features a truss spanning the width of the plenum to carry the weight of the apparatus. The plenum itself is attached to the ceiling of a room. An air handling component may be included to provide filtered and/or conditioned air in the vicinity of the suspended apparatus, or the plenum may be used strictly as an apparatus support, with no air-conditioning function. An ordinary suspended ceiling may also be mounted in the plenum for continuity with the remainder of the room.