Seismic Clip for Suspended Ceiling Grid Partitioning

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Solution Overview

Problem

Suspended ceiling systems are susceptible to displacement during seismic events, and existing solutions either compromise structural integrity or aesthetic appeal, particularly in large ceiling areas where seismic separation is required.

Innovation Solution

A resilient sheet metal clip that secures cross grid members to primary grid members, allowing independent movement in multiple directions while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal by partitioning the grid network into smaller, independent areas.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If grid members have four inch horizontal flanges to provide seismic resistance, then the structural integrity is improved, but the aesthetic appeal deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseismic resistanceVSAvoidaesthetic appeal

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The ceiling system is divided into multiple independent grid networks separated by seismic separation joints. Each grid network is further divided into modular units using the clip device, allowing seismic movement without requiring wide flanges for aesthetic purposes. The segmentation enables localized seismic response while maintaining overall visual continuity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The clip device acts as an intermediary component between primary and cross grid members. It provides the necessary seismic resistance and movement accommodation through its resilient fastening portions, eliminating the need for visible wide flanges. The clip serves as a hidden structural element that mediates between aesthetic requirements and seismic performance.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If the ceiling system is made unrestrained to accommodate horizontal movement during seismic events, then the adaptability to seismic displacement is improved, but the structural integrity deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveaccommodation of horizontal movementVSAvoidstructural integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The clip device incorporates resilient fastening portions that provide dynamic response to seismic forces. The resilient nature allows the connection to flex and accommodate horizontal movement while maintaining structural integrity. The system transitions from a static rigid connection to a dynamic resilient connection that adapts to seismic displacement.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The clip device changes the mechanical parameters of the grid connection by introducing resilience and flexibility. The resilient fastening portions alter the stiffness and movement characteristics of the connection, enabling the system to accommodate horizontal movement while maintaining strength through controlled deformation rather than rigid failure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If wall angles with 2 inch horizontal legs are used to allow lateral movement at walls, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases when applied to interior ceiling locations

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvelateral movement capabilityVSAvoidcomplexity at interior locations

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The clip device serves multiple functions: it connects cross grid members to primary grid members, provides resilient fastening, accommodates seismic movement, and maintains structural integrity. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for different solutions at wall versus interior locations, simplifying the overall system design while maintaining ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The clip device combines the functions of connection, movement accommodation, and structural reinforcement into a single integrated component. By merging these functions, the system avoids the complexity of combining multiple separate elements (such as wall angles with spacer bars and hanger wires) that would be needed at interior locations to achieve the same效果.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 clip enhances the structural strength of the grid framework, preventing twisting and withdrawal of cross grid members, while allowing independent movement of smaller grid networks to accommodate seismic displacement without compromising aesthetics.

Implementation Method 1

a clip which permits lateral movement of the cross grid member relative the primary grid member in at least two horizontal directions with respect to the ceiling plane, while maintaining the assembled relationship

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentUS7673429B2Suspended ceiling grid network utilizing seismic separation joint clips

Publication Date: 2010.03.09 WORTHINGTON ARMSTRONG VENTURE

AI summary

A ceiling system having a primary grid network which includes a plurality of grid members that are in generally perpendicular relation and form points of intersection. The ceiling system includes one or more joint clips, each of which is attached to the grid network at a point of intersection. Each joint clip partitions the primary grid network into smaller networks, which move independently of one another. At the same time, the appearance of an overall primary grid network is preserved.