Multipurpose False Ceiling Beam Integrating Services
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing false ceiling systems suffer from aesthetic drawbacks due to visible beam projections, complex structures with difficult assembly, and limited versatility for adapting to different room uses.
Innovation Solution
A multipurpose beam with a bearing profile that integrates functional elements entirely within the false ceiling construction, featuring a compartmentalized design with coupling means and support structures to maintain panels flush with the ceiling plane, allowing for easy assembly and modular customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If bearing beams are used to support false ceiling panels, then structural support function is achieved, but visible beam projections reduce aesthetic quality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the bearing beam structure with the functional service elements (cable trays, pipe supports, lighting fixtures) into a single integrated component. The beam includes recesses and mounting features that allow service elements to be incorporated directly into the beam body, eliminating separate support structures and reducing visible projections beneath the ceiling panels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nesting by placing cable trays, conduits, and service equipment within recesses and compartments formed in the beam structure. Service elements are nested within the beam volume rather than being mounted externally, which conceals them and reduces the overall profile height, thereby improving aesthetic quality while maintaining structural support function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate components are used for beam, service elements, and panel supports, then functional versatility is achieved, but assembly complexity and construction time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functional components (bearing beam, cable tray support, pipe hanger, lighting fixture mount, and panel support) into a single integrated beam structure. The beam includes built-in recesses for cable trays, mounting brackets for service elements, and support features for ceiling panels, all incorporated into one pre-assembled unit that reduces on-site assembly steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the beam as a universal component that performs multiple functions: structural support, service element mounting, cable management, and panel support. The beam includes standardized interfaces and adjustable features that allow different service elements and panel types to be accommodated, providing functional versatility without requiring multiple specialized components.
3Ease of operation
If traditional beam structures with external service elements are used, then installation flexibility is achieved, but visible projections create discontinuities in the false ceiling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges service elements within the beam structure by providing recesses and integrated mounting features. Cable trays, conduits, and equipment are positioned within the beam volume or on its upper surface, keeping the lower surface of the beam flush and continuous, which maintains the aesthetic integrity of the false ceiling while preserving installation flexibility through standardized interfaces.
4Strength
If heavy-duty beam structures are used to support all services, then structural strength is achieved, but the overall weight of the false ceiling system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the load-bearing functions by providing discrete reinforcement elements and localized strengthening features within the beam structure rather than uniformly increasing the entire beam cross-section. The beam includes ribbed sections, web stiffeners, and optimized flange thicknesses that provide structural strength only where needed, reducing overall material usage and weight while maintaining adequate load-bearing capacity for supporting ceiling panels and service elements.
Data Source
Figure 1~5
Figure 2~3
Figure 6~8
AI summary
A multipurpose beam for side-by-side panel false ceiling constructions comprises a bearing profile (2) with a pair of side walls (3, 3') joined together by a substantially horizontal wall (4) and having a bottom opening (7), at least one functional element (8, 8', 8', 8'',...) with an anchoring portion (9, 9', 9', 9'',...) designed to be received in the compartment (6), coupling means (10) for connecting together the profile (2) and the anchoring portion (8, 8', 8', 8'',...). support means (11) associated with the profile (2) for supporting at least one panel (P) of a false ceiling construction. The anchoring portion (9, 9', 9', 9'',...) of the functional element (8, 8', 8', 8'',...) is designed to hold the latter integrated in the profile (2) and entirely contained in the compartment (6). The support means (11) extend from the side walls (3, 31) (2) to hold the panels (P) substantially flush with the longitudinal edges (5, 5') of the opening (7). A false ceiling structure and a modular system for customized design of a false ceiling comprising the beam.