US20200217071A1

US20200217071A1 - Supporting element for suspended ceiling systems

Info

Publication number: US20200217071A1
Application number: US16/239,804
Authority: US
Inventors: Terence Edward Yeo
Original assignee: TEYEO HOLDINGS LLC; Fusion Optix Inc
Current assignee: TEYEO HOLDINGS LLC; Fusion Optix Inc
Priority date: 2019-01-04
Filing date: 2019-01-04
Publication date: 2020-07-09
Also published as: US20220010554A1; US20200385987A1; US11885130B2; US20220228366A1; US11396751B2

Abstract

Disclosed is a supporting element for a suspended ceiling system, wherein the suspended ceiling system includes hanging wires coupled to a structural ceiling; includes “T”-bars supported by the hanging wires; and includes a plurality of ceiling panels arranged in an array of cells defined by the “T”-bars; wherein flat end-portions of the “T”-bars defines a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels; wherein the supporting element, when in operation, supports a given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels in at least one of higher than the general ceiling plane, lower than the general ceiling plane, or at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane, wherein the given ceiling panel, of the plurality of ceiling panels, supported by the supporting element provides a three-dimensional appearance to the suspended ceiling system.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to supporting elements for suspended ceiling systems; and more specifically, to an arrangement of supporting elements for use in suspended ceiling systems. Furthermore, the present disclosure also relates to suspended ceiling systems having “T”-bars, and ceiling panels supported by the “T”-bars. Moreover, the present disclosure also relates to methods for (of) mounting supporting elements on the “T”-bars for supporting ceiling panels and electronic devices provided therein.

BACKGROUND

Often, a given house or building has, for a given room, a structural ceiling from which is supported a suspended ceiling arrangement. Typically, the suspended ceiling arrangement, also referred to as being a “suspended ceiling system”, includes a plurality of tiles or panels hanging at about 30 to 50 centimeters approximately from the structural ceiling of the house or building. The suspended ceiling arrangement further includes a plurality of T-bars that are configured to hold the plurality of tiles in position. Specifically, an arrangement of the plurality of T-bars provides cells to accommodate the plurality of tiles therein. Additionally, a flush-finish of lower surfaces of the plurality of T-bars, and the plurality of tiles are such that they appear as a continuous mono-planar ceiling surface. However, an appearance of such a conventional suspended ceiling arrangement has a dull look and becomes unpleasant with passage of time and creates an unpleasant environment inside the given room of the house or building.
Conventionally, in order to enhance the appearance of the suspended ceiling arrangements, lights (such as LEDs, incandescent bulbs, fluorescent tube lights and the like) are arranged along with the suspended ceiling arrangements to provide a lustrous or a radiant look thereto. However, over a passage of time, the aforementioned technique also fails as the color (colour) of the plurality of tiles becomes dull and becomes inconsistent with the lights. Therefore, the dull appearance of suspended ceiling arrangement generates a need to retrofit or replace the entire suspended ceiling arrangement, that generates a lot of waste material that can be environmentally disadvantageous. Additionally, retrofitting or replacing the entire suspended ceiling arrangement is very much costlier and also entails an excessive use of natural resources.
Therefore, in light of the foregoing discussion, there exists problems associated with maintaining a pleasant appearance, and useful technical functionality, of the known suspended ceiling arrangements.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure seeks to provide a supporting element for a suspended ceiling system.
The present disclosure also seeks to provide a suspended ceiling system including a supporting element.
The present disclosure also seeks to provide a method for (of) installing a suspended ceiling system.
The present disclosure provides an at least partial solution to the aforementioned technical problem, or problems, associated with known art. An aim of the present disclosure is to provide a solution that at least partially overcomes the aforementioned technical problem or problems.
According to a first aspect, the present disclosure provides a supporting element for a suspended ceiling system, wherein the suspended ceiling system:
(i) includes hanging wires coupled to a structural ceiling;
(ii) includes “T”-bars supported by the hanging wires; and
(iii) includes a plurality of ceiling panels arranged in an array of cells defined by the “T”-bars,
wherein flat end-portions of the “T”-bars define a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels,
wherein the supporting element, when in operation, supports a given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels in at least one of:

- higher than the general ceiling plane;
- lower than the general ceiling plane; or
- at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane;
  wherein the given ceiling panel, of the plurality of ceiling panels, supported by the supporting element provides a three-dimensional appearance to the suspended ceiling system.

Embodiments of the present disclosure substantially eliminate, or at least partially address, the aforementioned problems in the prior art with maintaining a pleasant appearance of the suspended ceiling arrangements and provides a suspended ceiling system to improvise maintenance of an appearance of ceiling panels. Specifically, the present disclosure provides supporting elements mounted on the “T”-bars of the suspended ceiling arrangements to support the ceiling panels at different orientations. Additionally, the ceiling panels being arranged at different orientations provide a three-dimensional structure to the existing suspended ceiling arrangements.
Optionally, the supporting element are implemented, such that the supporting element comprises:

- a mounting portion that is detachably mounted in operation on a given “T”-bar; and
- at least one supporting portion that is integral with the mounting portion, wherein the at least one supporting portion, when in operation, supports at least one of:
- a portion of the given ceiling panel;
- a covering element; or
- a ceiling device.

Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the mounting portion includes an elongate U-shaped structure formed by:

- a single continuous mounting element; or
- a plurality of flat mounting elements.

Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the supporting portion includes:

- at least one linear supporting element extending along or opposite to at least one leg of the elongate U-shaped structure; and
- a plurality of lateral supporting elements extending from the at least one linear supporting element.

- a plurality of linear supporting elements; and
- a plurality of lateral supporting elements, wherein a given linear supporting element is integral with a given lateral supporting element to form a L-shaped structure,
  wherein a plurality of L-shaped structures, corresponding to the plurality of linear supporting elements and lateral supporting elements, is integral to form a square zigzag structure.

Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the supporting portion includes

- a plurality of linear supporting elements; and
- a plurality of lateral supporting elements, wherein a given lateral supporting element is integral with at least one linear supporting element to form one of a L-shaped structure or a U-shaped pocket;
  wherein the L-shaped structure is integral with the U-shaped pocket.

Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the supporting element further comprises an intermediate lateral supporting element integral with one of a linear supporting element, of the U-shaped pocket, away from the L-shaped structure, wherein the intermediate lateral supporting element is arranged perpendicular or inclined to the linear supporting element.
Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that supporting element further comprises an optical-device supporting element, wherein the optical-device supporting element is coupled to at least one of:

- a given linear supporting element of the at least one linear supporting element, or
- a given lateral supporting element of the plurality of lateral supporting elements.

Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the optical-device supporting element includes a linear or an arcuate configuration.
Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the ceiling device comprises at least one of: the optical-device or a sensor.
Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the optical-device comprises at least one of: a light source, a light guide, a diffuser, a reflector or a refractive lens.
Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the further comprising a wireless-device operatively coupled to the light source and the sensor for controlling operation thereof.
Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the light source comprises one of: a LED light, an incandescent light, a monochromatic light, a laser, and a combination thereof.
Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the sensor comprises one of: a smoke detector, a proximity sensor, a light sensor, a motion sensor, and a combination thereof.
Optionally, the supporting element is implemented, such that the supporting element further comprises a power source, arranged between the mounting portion and the at least one supporting portion, for providing electrical power to the light source, the sensor and the wireless-device.
Optionally, an external surface of at least one linear supporting element and/or at least one of the plurality of lateral supporting elements comprises at least one of: a colored surface, a textured surface, and/or a reflective surface.
Optionally, the at least one linear supporting element is fabricated using a first type of material and at least one of the plurality of lateral supporting elements is fabricated using a second type of material.
More optionally, the first type of material and the second type of material comprises at least one of: aluminum, steel, metal, metal alloy, ceramic, composite, plastic.
According to a second aspect, the present disclosure provides a suspended ceiling system having hanging wires coupled to a structural ceiling, “T”-bars supported by the hanging wires and a plurality of ceiling panels arranged in an array of cells defined by the “T”-bars, wherein flat end-portions of the “T”-bars define a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels,
wherein the suspended ceiling system further comprises:

- supporting elements that are mounted in operation on the “T”-bars, for supporting the plurality of ceiling panels thereon along with the “T”-bars, wherein the supporting elements, when in operation, support a given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels in at least one of:
- higher than the general ceiling plane;
- lower than the general ceiling plane; or
- at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane; and
  wherein the plurality of ceiling panels supported by the supporting element provide a three-dimensional appearance to the suspended ceiling system, and
- ceiling devices, when in operation, mounted on the supporting elements.

Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that each of the supporting elements comprises:

- a mounting portion that is detachably mounted on the given “T”-bar; and
- at least one supporting portion that is integral with the mounting portion, wherein the at least one supporting portion, when in operation, supports at least one of:
- a portion of the given ceiling panel;
- a covering element; or
- the ceiling devices.

Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the mounting portion includes an elongate U-shaped structure formed by:

Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the supporting portion includes:

Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the supporting portion includes

Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the supporting portion further comprises an intermediate lateral supporting element integral with one of a linear supporting element, of the U-shaped pocket, away from the L-shaped structure, wherein the intermediate lateral supporting element is arranged perpendicular or inclined to the linear supporting element.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the supporting portion further comprises an optical-device supporting element, wherein the optical-device supporting element is coupled to at least one of:

Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the optical-device supporting element includes a linear or an arcuate configuration.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the ceiling devices comprises at least one of: the optical-device or a sensor.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the optical-device comprises at least one of: a light source, a light guide, a diffuser, a reflector or a refractive lens.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the suspended ceiling system further comprises a wireless-device operatively coupled to the light source and the sensor for controlling operation thereof.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the light source comprises at least one of: a LED light, an incandescent light, a monochromatic light, a laser, and a combination thereof.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the sensor comprises at least one of: a smoke detector, a proximity sensor, a light sensor, a motion sensor, and a combination thereof.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the suspended ceiling system further comprises a power source, arranged between the mounting portion and the at least one supporting portion, for providing electrical power to the light source, the sensor and the wireless-device.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the light source, when in operation, is arranged to emit light radiation in a distance between the given ceiling panel and the general ceiling plane.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the light source is directed towards a center of their respective cell when the given ceiling panel is mounted higher than the general ceiling plane or at the tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the light sources are directed outwardly away from a center of their respective cell when the given ceiling panel is mounted lower than the general ceiling plane or at the tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the tilted angle is in a range of 1° to 90° relative to the general ceiling plane.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the tilted angle is in a range of 1° to 30° relative to the general ceiling plane.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the suspended ceiling further comprises a reflective housing, to provide a reflective surface to the light source, mounted on a given supporting element.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that a length of a given supporting element is equal to one of: a length of a given “T”-bar, half of the length of the given “T”-bar, one-third of the length of the given “T”-bar or a quarter of the length of the given “T”-bar.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system is implemented, such that the supporting elements includes at least a pair of the supporting elements, mounted on either side of the given “T”-bar, when each of the pair of the supporting elements has a length equal to one of: half of the length of the given “T”-bar, one-third of the length of the given “T”-bar or a quarter of the length of the given “T”-bar.
In a third aspect, the present disclosure provides a method for (of) installing a suspended ceiling system having hanging wires coupled to a structural ceiling, “T”-bars supported by the hanging wires, and a plurality of ceiling panels arranged on array of cells defined by the “T”-bars, wherein flat end-portions of the “T”-bars define a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels, wherein the method includes:

- mounting supporting elements onto the “T”-bars, for supporting the plurality of ceiling panels thereon along with the “T”-bars, wherein the supporting elements, when in operation, support a given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels in at least one of:
- higher than the general ceiling plane;
- lower than the general ceiling plane; or
  - at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane;
- mounting ceiling devices on the supporting elements.

Optionally, the method includes removing the plurality of ceiling panels prior to mounting the supporting elements onto the “T”-bars, mounting the supporting elements onto the “T”-bars, mounting the ceiling devices on the supporting elements, and mounting the plurality of removed ceiling panels onto the supporting elements.
Additional aspects, advantages, features and objects of the present disclosure would be made apparent from the drawings and the detailed description of the illustrative embodiments construed in conjunction with the appended claims that follow.
It will be appreciated that features of the present disclosure are susceptible to being combined in various combinations without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The summary above, as well as the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments, is better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present disclosure, exemplary constructions of the disclosure are shown in the drawings. However, the present disclosure is not limited to specific methods and instrumentalities disclosed herein. Moreover, those in the art will understand that the drawings are not to scale.

Wherever possible, like elements have been indicated by identical numbers.

Embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following diagrams wherein:

FIG. 1 is an illustration of a suspended ceiling system (namely a suspended ceiling arrangement), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an illustration of a supporting element, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 3-20 are illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the supporting element (as shown in FIG. 2), in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 21-24 are illustrations of exemplary suspended ceiling systems (as shown in FIGS. 2 to 22), in accordance with various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 25 is an illustration of steps of method for (of) installing a suspended ceiling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

In the accompanying drawings, an underlined number is employed to represent an item over which the underlined number is positioned or an item to which the underlined number is adjacent. A non-underlined number relates to an item identified by a line linking the non-underlined number to the item. When a number is non-underlined and accompanied by an associated arrow, the non-underlined number is used to identify a general item at which the arrow is pointing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following detailed description illustrates embodiments of the present disclosure and ways in which they can be implemented. Although some modes of carrying out the present disclosure have been disclosed, those skilled in the art would recognize that other embodiments for carrying out or practicing the present disclosure are also possible.
In overview, embodiments of the present disclosure are concerned with an arrangement of supporting elements on a suspended ceiling system to support ceiling panels. Furthermore, the supporting elements are mounted on “T”-bars to support the ceiling panels at different planes with respect to a general ceiling plane defined by the “T”-bars arrangement. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method for (of) installing the suspended ceiling system.
FIG. 1 is an illustration of a suspended ceiling system 100 (also referred to as being a “suspended ceiling arrangement”), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the suspended ceiling system 100 includes hanging wires 104 coupled to a structural ceiling 106, “T”-bars 108 supported by the hanging wires 104, and a plurality of ceiling panels 110 arranged in an array of cells 112 defined by the “T”-bars. Furthermore, flat end-portions of the “T”-bars define a general ceiling plane 114 for the plurality of ceiling panels. Furthermore, the suspended ceiling system 100 includes a supporting element 102 that, when in operation, supports given ceiling panels 116A-C of the plurality of ceiling panels 110 in at least one of:
(a) higher than the general ceiling plane 114;
(b) lower than the general ceiling plane 114; and
(c) at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane 114.
Furthermore, the suspended ceiling system 100 includes ceiling device 118.
The suspended ceiling system 100 includes hanging wires 104 coupled to the structural ceiling 106. Throughout the present disclosure, the term “suspended ceiling system” refers to any ceiling consisting of a ceiling grid suspended or hung at a height below a structural ceiling of an architecture, such as a room of a house, or a building. It will be appreciated that the structural ceiling 106 is an overhead interior surface that covers, namely defines, an upper limit of a room. In an example, the structural ceiling 106 may be at a height of 2.5 meters from a floor (not shown) of the room. In such an example, the height below the structural ceiling 106 for holding the suspended ceiling system 100 may be 0.25 meters from the height of the structural ceiling 106, i.e. 2.25 meters from a floor of the room. Furthermore, the suspended ceiling system 100 is suspended or hung at the height using the hanging wires 104 that are securely fixed to the structural ceiling 106. Optionally, the hanging wires 104 can be hinged, hooked, tied, coupled, plastered securely or fixed to the structural ceiling 106. In an example embodiment, during installation, the hanging wires 104 are coupled to the structural ceiling 106 to support the suspended ceiling system 100 to be hung at the height therefrom. Furthermore, the suspended ceiling system 100 is supported by the hanging wires 104 at the height to provide a gap between the structural ceiling 106 and the suspended ceiling system 100. Beneficially, the gap provides a space for the ceiling device 118 to be arranged therebetween.
Optionally, the suspended ceiling system 100 includes a grid formation constructed using metallic bars. Furthermore, the grid formation includes pluralities of openings wherein removable panels (ceiling panels) are positioned. Furthermore, the grid formation is configured to accommodate various electronic and/or electrical devices for providing a plurality of services in the room. Examples of various electronic and electrical devices may include at least one of: lights, alarms, sensors, ventilation fans, heaters, humidifiers and the like. Optionally, the suspended ceiling system 100 can include a power system for supplying electric power to the various electrically and/or electronically operated ceiling devices.
The suspended ceiling system 100 includes “T”-bars 108 supported by the hanging wires. The “T”-bars 108 of the ceiling system 100 are hardware components such as an elongate rigid spine extending between terminal ends of the ceiling. Additionally, the “T”-bars 108 include an inverted T-shaped structure comprising a flat vertical portion integral to a flat end-portion (base portion). Furthermore, the “T”-bars 108 include either a fixed anchor or an adjustable anchor for attachment to an adjacent member, such as another “T”-bars or other holding for securely holding or suspending the T-bar 108. Optionally, the “T”-bars 108 are conjoined to the hanging wires, either by hooking, welding, gluing, and so forth. Moreover, the “T”-bars 108 include tracks or holes wherein the hanging wires can be coupled to and/or can be latched onto for supporting (i.e. holding or suspending) the suspended ceiling system 100 from the structural ceiling 106. Furthermore, the “T”-bars 108 of the suspended ceiling system 100 form a series of openings into which the ceiling panels can be arranged.
The suspended ceiling system 100 includes a plurality of ceiling panels 116A-C arranged in an array of cells defined by the “T”-bars 108. The series of openings formed by the “T”-bars 108 are in an array, i.e. the series of openings are formed in a grid of rows and columns. In an example, the grid may include 20 columns and 50 columns. In an another, the grid may include 10 columns and 100 columns. Furthermore, the array of cells is a parallelepiped lattice formed by the arrangement of “T”-bars 108. Moreover, the flat vertical portion of the “T”-bars 108 can form the boundary of the opening of the suspended ceiling system 100 wherein the ceiling panels (such as the ceiling panels 116A-C) is positioned. Furthermore, a structure of the array of cells may include ceiling panels having rectangular shapes, square shapes, rectangular shapes, rhombic shapes, and so forth.
Furthermore, the term “ceiling panels” as used herein relates to a lightweight structure, usually a shallow cuboidal structure, having a length, a breadth, and a height which are placed within the opening formed by the “T”-bars 108 for covering the ceilings 106. Furthermore, dimensions of the plurality of ceiling panels 116A-C are based on the parallelepiped lattice allowed by the arrangement of “T”-bars to accommodate therein. Optionally, the ceiling panels 116A-C are a plurality of substantially identical panels, each panel being substantially rectangular in form, when viewed from the room. Optionally, the ceiling panels 116A-C includes a portion, such as peripheral edges, wherein, in operation, the edges of the ceiling panels 116A-C rest on the flat end-portion of the T-bar. Optionally, the ceiling panels 116A-C may include a portion, such a central portion (away from the peripheral portion), which in operation may rest on the flat end-portion of the T-bar. Optionally, the ceiling panels 116A-C include at least one edge having one or more lengthwise protruding lips and/or one or more lengthwise grooves along the whole length of the edge. The protruding lips and/or one or more lengthwise grooves of the ceiling panels 116A-C enable the ceiling panels 116A-C to be securely held (namely supported) on the flat end-portion of the T-bar.
The flat end-portions of the “T”-bars 108 define a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels. Specifically, the flat end-portions of the “T”-bars 108 define a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels. The term “general ceiling plane” used herein refers to an imaginary plane, parallel to a floor or flooring surface of the given room, along which typically conventional ceiling panels are arranged. Furthermore, in the or along the general ceiling plane, the conventional ceiling panels are positioned or arranged mutually adjacent and parallel to each other. In the present disclosure, the flat end-portions of the “T”-bars 108 define the general ceiling plane. Furthermore, each of the flat end-portions of the “T”-bars 108 are planar and parallel to each other. Furthermore, each of the flat end-portions being in the same plane provides a planar structure at lower surfaces of the “T”-bars 108 arrangement. Moreover, the planar structure at lower surfaces of the “T”-bars 108 arrangement provides the general ceiling plane.
The supporting elements 102 are mounted in operation on the “T”-bars 108, wherein the supporting elements 102 support the plurality of ceiling panels 116A-C thereon along with the “T”-bars 108. The supporting elements 102 are a continuous solid structure including a shape that is configured to mount securely onto the “T”-bars 108 and hold the plurality of ceiling panels 116A-C. Furthermore, the supporting elements 102 are fabricated in a manner for differently positioning the ceiling panels 116A-C with respect to the general ceiling plane. Additionally, each of the supporting elements 102 is fabricated from various elements (shown as linear and lateral supporting elements 212 and 216 in FIG. 2). For example, the various elements can be continuous straight or curved bars, beams, planks and the like. Optionally, the various elements can be detachably coupled for forming the supporting elements 102. Alternatively, the supporting elements 102 are monolithic structures, i.e. a continuous structure that is fashioned out of a block; furthermore, the block can be block of metal, alloy, plastics material, wood and the like. Additionally, materials for manufacturing the supporting elements may include metals, metal alloys, hardened polyvinyl materials, and the like. Furthermore, the various elements are positioned linearly and laterally to form a structure that enables the supporting elements 102 to hold plurality of ceiling panel and ceiling device. Furthermore, the various elements are positioned linearly and laterally, to form a recess structure to accommodate the plurality of ceiling panel and ceiling devices.
The supporting elements 102, when in operation, support the given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels 116A-C higher than the general ceiling plane 114. Specifically, the supporting elements 102 hold the edges of the given ceiling panel in a manner that the position of the given ceiling panel is raised relative to the general ceiling plane 114. Furthermore, the position of the at least one ceiling panel that is higher than the general ceiling plane 114 can be defined as a condition, wherein an axis of abscissas of the at least one ceiling panel is parallel to an axis of abscissas of the general ceiling plane 114 where measured in a plane cartesian coordinate system. Optionally, the given ceiling panel higher than the general ceiling plane 114 includes a height that is more than a height of the general ceiling plane 114. It will be appreciated that the heights of the given ceiling panel and the general ceiling plane 114 are measured from the floor of the given room. For example, the height of the given ceiling panel may be 2.25 meters from the floor. In such an example, the supporting elements 102 hold the given ceiling panel at a height of 2.30 meters from the floor of the room.
The supporting elements 102, when in operation, support the given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels 116A-C lower than the general ceiling plane 114. Specifically, the supporting elements 102 holds the edges of the given ceiling panel in a manner that the position of the given ceiling panel is lowered than the general ceiling plane 114. Furthermore, the position of the at least one ceiling panel that is lower than the general ceiling plane 114 can be defined as a condition wherein an axis of abscissas of the at least one ceiling panel is parallel to an axis of abscissas of the general ceiling plane 114 where measured in a plane cartesian coordinate system. Optionally, the given ceiling panel that is lower than the general ceiling plane 114 includes a height that is less than a height of the general ceiling plane 114. It will be appreciated that the heights of the given ceiling panel and the general ceiling plane 114 is measured from the floor of the room. For example, the height of the given ceiling panel may be 2.25 meters from the floor. In such an example, the supporting elements 102 hold, namely support, the given ceiling panel at a height of 2.20 meters from the floor of the room.
The supporting elements 102, when in operation, support the given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels 116A-C at a tilted angle relative the general ceiling plane 114. Optionally, the supporting elements 102 hold an edge of the given ceiling panel at a position that is higher than the general ceiling plane 114 and another edge of the given ceiling panel is at a position that is lower than the general ceiling plane 114. Optionally, the supporting elements 102 hold an edge of the given ceiling panel a position that is higher than the general ceiling plane 114 and another edge of the given ceiling panel is held on the general ceiling plane 114. More optionally, the supporting elements 102 hold an edge of the given ceiling panel at a position that is lower than the general ceiling plane 114 and another edge of the given ceiling panel is held on the general ceiling plane 114. In an example, wherein the supporting elements 102 hold the given ceiling panel at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane 114, a height of at least one edge of the given ceiling panel will be more than a height of the general ceiling plane 114, and a height of at least one edge will be less than a height of the general ceiling plane 114. Moreover, the edge having the greater height from the general ceiling plane 114 is opposite to the edge having the lesser height from the general ceiling plane 114. For example, the height of the given ceiling panel may be 2.25 meters from the floor. In such example, the supporting elements 102 hold the given ceiling panel in a manner that an edge of the given ceiling panel is at a height of 2.30 meters, and the opposite edge is at a height of 2.20 meters from the floor of the room, respectively.
The suspended ceiling system 100 further comprises ceiling devices 118, that are configured (namely arranged when in operation) to be mounted on the supporting elements 102. The ceiling devices 118 potentially includes at least one of the optical-device or a sensor. According to an embodiment, the optical-device comprises at least one of: a light source, a light guide, a diffuser, a reflector or a refractive lens. It will be appreciated that the ceiling devices 118 may include any electrical and/or electronic devices that can be coupled to the supporting elements 102 for providing one or more services or functionalities. Examples of the electrically and/or electronically operated devices may be (but not limited to) the light sources, sensor arrangements, air conditioners, air purifiers, image projectors, anti-noise cancellation apparatus and the like. Additionally, the ceiling devices 118 can include a holding unit for securely mounting the electrical and/or electronic devices onto any surface. Furthermore, the ceiling devices 118 are mounted on the recess structure included in the supporting elements 102. Moreover, the ceiling devices 118 are securely held on the supporting elements 102. The ceiling devices 118 are securely held using various means or arrangements, such as screws, nuts, bolts, adhesives, rivets, tie-wraps and the like. Optionally, the ceiling devices 118 are securely held and slidably arranged on the recess structure included in the supporting elements 102. It will be appreciated that a sliding mechanism such as a slider, a roller and the like can be used for slidably arranging (for example, mounting) the electrical and/or electronic ceiling devices 118 on the recess structure included in the supporting elements 102.
The given ceiling panel, of the plurality of ceiling panels 116A-C, supported by the supporting element 102 is configured (namely arranged when in operation) to provide a three-dimensional appearance to the suspended ceiling system 100. The plurality of ceiling panels 116A-C and the ceiling devices 118 are optionally arranged in a manner that their respective positions are higher than the general ceiling plane, lower than the general ceiling plane, or at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane; in such an example, the three-dimensional appearance to the suspended ceiling system 100 is achieved. The supporting elements 102 accommodate the plurality of ceiling panels and electrically and/or electronically operated ceiling devices in a manner that, when in operation, the suspended ceiling system 100 comprises a three-dimensional view when viewed from plurality of locations within the room. It will be appreciated that, the three-dimensional appearance of the suspended ceiling system 100 refers to a view, wherein the suspended ceiling system 100 appears to include protrusions and indentions in height, weight and length.
FIG. 2 is an illustration of a supporting element 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the supporting element 200 comprises a mounting portion 202 that is detachably mounted in operation on a given “T”-bar 204, and at least one supporting portion 206 that is integral with the mounting portion 202.
Optionally, the mounting portion 202 is detachably mounted on the given “T”-bar by accommodating a thickness of the flat vertical portion of the “T”-bar 204 between a recess of the elongate U-shaped structure 210. In an example, the mounting portion 202 may be coupled using a coupling means such as screws, nuts, bolts, adhesives, rivets, tie-wraps and the like. In another example, the mounting portion 202 may be coupled using a sliding mechanism such as a slider, a roller and the like. In such an example, the mounting portion 202 may slide over the flat vertical portion of the “T”-bar 204 and provide an ease of detaching thereof. Additionally, the mounting portion 202 includes a thickness, a length and a height (less than the flat vertical portion of the “T”-bar). Optionally, the material for manufacturing the mounting portion 202 may include metals, metal alloys, hardened polyvinyl materials, plastics materials, glass-filled plastics materials, ceramic materials and the like. Furthermore, the mounting portion 202 includes a plurality of flat mounting elements. The term ““flat mounting element” used herein relates to solid structures molded to form the mounting portion 202 of the supporting element. Furthermore, the mounting portion 202 of the supporting element is integral and molded in a substantially U-shaped structure 210. It will be appreciated that the term “substantially U-shaped structure” herein relates to a shape resembling an alphabetical letter “U” and a structure having a vertical left elongate member, a vertical right elongate member, and a curved member (or alternatively, a horizontal member) adjoining as integral to the lower end of the vertical left elongate member and the vertical right elongate member. In an example, each of the flat mounting elements are mutually separate and may be coupled to the curved member by coupling means or arrangements, such as welding, adhesives, fasteners and the like.
Optionally, the supporting elements 200 comprise at least one supporting portion 206 that is integral with the mounting portion 202. The at least one supporting portion 206B refers to the portion of the supporting elements 200 that comprise various elements positioned linearly and laterally to form a recess structure for holding one or more objects. Optionally, the at least one supporting portion 202, when in operation, supports an edge of the given ceiling panel. The recess structure formed by the various elements positioned linearly and laterally in the supporting elements 200 supports the edge of the given ceiling panel. The recess structure is configured in a manner that the edge of the given ceiling panel securely fits into the recess structure of the at least one supporting portion 202.
Optionally, the at least one supporting portion 202, when in operation, supports a covering member (best shown in subsequent figure herein later). The term “covering member” used herein relates to a flat structure having one of a circular, an oval or a polygonal shape, when in operation covers a gap between a ceiling panel, such as the ceiling panels 116A-C of FIG. 1, and the general ceiling plane 114, shown in FIG. 1. For example, the covering member may be rectangular or triangular panel or sheet, which can fill the gap between the ceiling panel and the general ceiling plane 114. It will be appreciated that a shape of the covering member may be based on a shape of the gap, which further is formed based on the arrangement of the ceiling panel with respect to the general ceiling plane 114. Additionally, the covering member may include decorative or optical properties, for example, the covering member may include a colored surface, a textured surface, and/or a reflective surface. In addition to above, optionally, the covering member may be configured to confirm to a shape of a conventional ceiling panel, such that such covering member may be mounted on supporting elements, such as the supporting element 102 of FIG. 1 or the supporting elements 200 of FIG. 2.
Optionally, the at least one supporting portion 202, when in operation, supports the ceiling device (such as the ceiling device 118 of FIG. 1). Furthermore, the at least one supporting portion 202 supports the ceiling device 118 by securely holding the ceiling device 118. Moreover, the ceiling device 118 is supported in the at least one supporting portion 202 in a manner that the ceiling device 118 is operable to provide the one or more services or functionalities within the room.
Furthermore, the mounting portion 202 includes a plurality of flat mounting elements 208 that are integral to constitute a substantially elongate U-shaped structure 210. Alternatively, the mounting portion 202 includes an elongate U-shaped structure formed by a single continuous mounting element. For example, the mounting portion 202 may be continuous arcuate structure resembling conventional U-shape. The mounting portion 202 can be formed such that a gap between the plurality of flat mounting elements 208 is substantially equal (such as, to within a range of 90% to 95%) to a width of the “T”-bar 208. It will be appreciated that such a gap between the plurality of flat mounting elements 208 enables the “T”-bar 208 to be tightly held within the U-shaped structure 210.
Additionally, the supporting portion 206 includes at least one linear supporting element 212 extending from at least one end 214 of the elongate U-shaped structure 212, and a plurality of lateral supporting elements 216 extending from the at least one linear supporting element 212. Optionally, each of the plurality of lateral supporting elements 216 can be formed as an integral part of the at least one linear supporting element 212 on one side (or alternatively, on both sides) thereof. In such an arrangement, the plurality of lateral supporting elements 216 act as horizontal flanges extending from the at least one linear supporting element 212. Optionally, each of the plurality of lateral supporting elements 216 can be disposed on the at least one linear supporting element 212 at an angle within a range of 45° to 90° with respect to the at least one linear supporting element 212. It will be appreciated that such an arrangement of the at least one linear supporting element 212 at the angle enables an arrangement of the ceiling panels at different angles with respect to the general ceiling plane to be achieved.
Furthermore, the plurality of lateral supporting elements 216 form a gap therebetween for receiving a ceiling panel therebetween. Subsequently, upon arranging the ceiling panel between plurality of lateral supporting elements 216, the ceiling panel can be fixedly coupled to the plurality of lateral supporting elements 216, such as by using attachment means including but not limited to, screws, nuts, bolts, and so forth. It will be appreciated that arrangement of the ceiling panel between the plurality of lateral supporting elements 216 enables the ceiling panel to be maintained in a required position.
Optionally, the supporting portion includes at least one linear supporting element extending from the at least one end of the elongate U-shaped structure. The term “linear supporting element” relates to a planar solid structure extending from the at least one end of the elongate U-shaped structure, perpendicularly to the general ceiling plane of the suspended ceiling system. Furthermore, the at least one linear supporting element is integral to the elongate U-shaped structure and supported along with the mounting portion on the “T”-bars. In an example, the at least one linear supporting element is separate apart from the mounting portion and may be coupled by coupling means such as welding, adhesives, and the like. Optionally, the material for manufacturing the supporting portion may include metals, metal alloys, hardened polyvinyl materials, plastics materials, glass-filled polymeric materials, ceramic materials and the like.
Optionally, the supporting portion includes a plurality of lateral supporting elements extending from the at least one linear supporting element. The term “lateral supporting element” relates to a planar solid structure extending perpendicularly from the at least one linear supporting element. Optionally, the lateral supporting element can be arranged at an angle, namely a non-zero tilt angle, with respect to the at least one linear supporting element. Such lateral supporting elements enable to support the ceiling panel therebetween. For example, when a pair of lateral supporting elements are used to support a ceiling panel therebetween, a lateral supporting element of the pair of lateral supporting elements arranged under the ceiling panel supports a weight of the ceiling panel thereon. Furthermore, a lateral supporting element of the pair of lateral supporting elements arranged on top of the ceiling panel prevents pivoting of the ceiling panel about an end of the lateral supporting element arranged under the ceiling panel, thereby, enabling secure arrangement of the ceiling panel between the pair of lateral supporting elements. Furthermore, a gap between the pair of lateral supporting elements can be substantially equal to a thickness of the ceiling panel, such that the ceiling panel can be tightly received in between the pair of lateral supporting elements. Furthermore, the plurality of lateral supporting elements is integral to the at least one linear supporting element and supported along with the mounting portion on the “T”-bars. In an example, the plurality of lateral supporting elements is separate apart from the one linear supporting element and may be coupled by coupling means such as welding, adhesives, and the like.
FIGS. 3-5 are illustrations of exemplary embodiments of the supporting element (as shown in FIG. 2), in accordance with various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 3 depicts a cross section of the supporting element 300 that includes a mounting portion 302, and a supporting portion 304. As shown, the mounting portion 302 of the supporting element 300 includes a substantially U-shaped structure. It will be appreciated that the cross-section of the supporting element 300 is a portion that can be viewed when cut thoroughly along a center thereof. Furthermore, the mounting portion 302 includes three mounting elements integral to each other. Optionally, three mounting elements are separate when apart and may be coupled by coupling means such as welding, adhesives, and the like. Additionally, two (placed in left and right with reference to FIG. 3) of the three mounting elements are perpendicular to the general ceiling plane. More additionally, one (middle one as shown in FIG. 3) of the three mounting elements, placed between the two mounting elements, is parallel to the general ceiling plane 114 (with reference to FIG. 1). Notably, a structural arrangement of the three mounting elements of the mounting portion 302 provides a recess to accommodate the “T”-bars 108 (with reference to FIG. 1) therein, when mounted thereto. Furthermore, the supporting portion 304 includes a linear supporting element that is integral to the mounting portion 302, extending from one (right side as shown in FIG. 1) of the ends of the mounting elements of the mounting portion 302. Additionally, the linear supporting element is perpendicular to the general ceiling plane 114 (with reference to FIG. 1). Furthermore, the supporting portion 304 also includes two lateral supporting elements extending from the linear supporting element. Additionally, the two lateral supporting elements are integral and perpendicular to the linear supporting element. Furthermore, additionally, the two lateral supporting elements are parallel to the general ceiling plane 114 (with reference to FIG. 1). Optionally, each of the mounting portion 302 and the supporting portion 304 may be separate when apart and may be coupled by coupling means such as welding, adhesives, and the like.
FIG. 4 depicts a cross section of the supporting element 400 that includes a mounting portion 402, and two supporting portions 404A and 404B. As shown, the mounting portion 402 of the supporting element 400 includes a substantially U-shaped structure. It will be appreciated that the cross section of the supporting element 400 is a portion that can be viewed when cut thoroughly along a center thereof. Furthermore, the mounting portion 402 includes three mounting elements that are integral to each other. Optionally, three mounting elements are separate when apart and may be coupled by coupling means such as welding, adhesives, and the like. Additionally, two (placed in left and right with reference to FIG. 4) of the three mounting elements are perpendicular to the general ceiling plane. More additionally, one (middle one as shown in FIG. 4) of the three mounting elements is placed between the two mounting elements, is parallel to the general ceiling plane 114 (with reference to FIG. 1). Notably, a structural arrangement of the three mounting elements of the mounting portion 402 provides a recess to accommodate the “T”-bars 108 (with reference to FIG. 1) therein, when mounted thereto. Furthermore, the supporting portion 404 includes two linear supporting elements that are integral to the mounting portion 402, extending from both of the ends of the mounting elements of the mounting portion 402. Additionally, the two linear supporting elements are perpendicular to the general ceiling plane 114 (with reference to FIG. 1). Furthermore, the supporting portion 404A-B also includes four lateral supporting elements extending from the two linear supporting elements. Specifically, two lateral supporting elements are extending from each of the two linear supporting elements. Additionally, each of the two lateral supporting elements are integral and perpendicular to the two linear supporting elements. Optionally, each of the mounting portion 402 and the supporting portion 404A-B may be separate when apart and may be coupled by coupling means such as welding, adhesives, and the like.
FIG. 5 depicts a cross section of the supporting element 500 that includes a mounting portion 502, and a supporting portion 504. Optionally, the supporting portion 504 include a plurality of linear supporting elements 506, and a plurality of lateral supporting elements 508, wherein a given linear supporting element 506 is integral with a given lateral supporting element 508 to form a L-shaped structure 510. The plurality of linear supporting elements 506 are integral to the mounting portion 502 and perpendicular to the general ceiling plane 114 (as shown in FIG. 1). Additionally, a plurality of lateral supporting elements 508 are perpendicular to the plurality of linear supporting elements 506. The plurality of lateral supporting elements 508 is fabricated to form an enclosure having an open front. For example, the plurality of lateral supporting elements 508 can be fabricated using a hollow cuboidal structure, wherein a front-face and each of the side-faces (such as a left-face and a right-face) of the hollow cuboidal structure is open. In such an example, the hollow cuboidal structure can be integrally fabricated as part of the plurality of linear supporting elements 506. Furthermore, a height of the hollow cuboidal structure corresponds substantially to the thickness of the ceiling panel (such that, the thickness of the ceiling panel is within a range of 90% to 99% of the height of the hollow cuboidal structure without the front-face and the side-faces). In such an example, the ceiling panel can be arranged within the hollow cuboidal structure by sliding one end of the ceiling panel through the hollow cuboidal structure, along a length of the hollow cuboidal structure. It will be appreciated that as the height of the hollow cuboidal structure substantially corresponds to the thickness of the ceiling panel, the ceiling panel is tightly held within the hollow cuboidal structure. Optionally, the hollow cuboidal structure can be arranged such that horizontal planes thereof are perpendicular to the plurality of linear supporting elements 506. Alternatively, the hollow cuboidal structure can be arranged such that the horizontal planes thereof are disposed at an angle within a range of 45° to 90° with respect to the plurality of linear supporting elements 506. Optionally, each of the plurality of linear supporting elements 506 and the plurality of lateral supporting elements 508 may be separate when apart and may be coupled by coupling means such as welding, adhesives, and the like. Optionally, the supporting portion 504 includes a plurality of L-shaped structures 510, corresponding to the plurality of linear supporting elements 506 and lateral supporting elements 508, that is integral to form a square zigzag structure 512. Optionally, the linear supporting elements 506 and lateral supporting elements 508 are arranged in a manner to form a plurality of L-shaped structures. Furthermore, the plurality of L-shaped structures is arranged alternatively to form the square zigzag structure 512. For example, a first hollow cuboidal space and a second hollow cuboidal space formed by the linear supporting elements 506 and lateral supporting elements 508 can be arranged such that the first hollow cuboidal space has the open front towards a right of the plurality of linear supporting elements 506 and the second hollow cuboidal space has the open front towards a left of the plurality of linear supporting elements 506. Furthermore, the first hollow cuboidal space is arranged above the second hollow cuboidal space, and the first and second hollow cuboidal spaces are arranged in a manner such that a cross-section thereof forms the square zigzag structure 512. Specifically, the square zigzag structure 512 resembles a square waveform pattern. In such an example, the edges of the ceiling panel (such as the edge of the given ceiling panel 604, 704, 804, 904, 1004) can be arranged within the first and the second hollow cuboidal spaces allowing the ceiling panels to be supported by the supporting element 500. In such an example, the square zigzag structure 512 comprises a length which is approximately equal to one quarter of the total length of the supporting element 500.
FIG. 6 depicts a cross section of a supporting element 600 that includes a mounting portion 602, and two optical-device supporting elements 604A-B. As shown, linear supporting elements 606A-B are coupled to the mounting portion 602. The optical-device supporting element 604A is coupled to the linear supporting element 606A and the optical-device supporting element 604B is coupled to the linear supporting element 606B. Furthermore, the optical-device supporting elements 604A-B support optical-devices 608A-B respectively thereon. Optionally, the optical-device comprises at least one of: a light source, a light guide, a diffuser, a reflector or a refractive lens. The light source is an electrically and/or electronically operated device that is configured to emit light therefrom. The light guide is an optical-device that enables transmission of light along different paths. For example, the light guide can be implemented as a bent mirror that reflects light incident thereon along a first path (and at a first angle) along a second path (and at a second angle) different from the first path. The diffuser is an optical device that scatters light, diffuses light or enables reduction in intensity of light. In one example, each of the optical-devices 608A-B are implemented as light sources configured to emit light therefrom. In such an example, the optical-devices 608A-B implemented as light sources can emit light of different colors, wavelengths and so forth. Furthermore optionally, the light sources 608A-B comprise one of: a LED light, an incandescent light, a monochromatic light, a laser, and a combination thereof. For example, the light source 608A can be implemented as an LED light configured to emit multichromatic light and the light source 608B can be implemented as a laser configured to emit laser light. Optionally, the light sources 608A-B are configured to emit light associated with a non-lambertian spatial distribution. For example, a viewer observes the light emitted from the light sources 608A-B at different intensities, when the viewer views the light sources 608A-B at different angles. In another example, each of the optical-devices 608A-B are implemented as reflectors that are configured to reflect light incident thereon in one or more directions. Such light incident on the optical-devices 608A-B implemented as reflectors can comprise natural light emitted by one or more natural sources (such as sunlight), artificial light emitted by one or more artificial sources (such as incandescent bulbs, LED lights and so forth) and/or a combination thereof. In yet another example, the optical-device 608A is implemented as a light source and the optical-device 608B is implemented as a reflector. In such an example, the optical-device 608A implemented as the light source is configured to emit light therefrom and the optical-device 608B implemented as the reflector is configured to reflect the light emitted by the optical-device 608A in one or more directions. Alternatively or additionally, the optical-device is coupled to a given lateral supporting element of the plurality of lateral supporting elements.
FIG. 7 depicts a cross section of a supporting element 700 that includes a mounting portion 702, and a supporting portion 704. The supporting portion 704 includes a plurality of linear supporting elements 706, 708 and 710, and a plurality of lateral supporting elements 712, 714 and 716. The linear supporting element 706 is integral with the lateral supporting element 712 to form a L-shaped structure 718. Furthermore, the linear supporting elements 708 and 710 are integral with the lateral supporting element 714 to form a U-shaped pocket 720. The U-shaped pocket 720 is a optical-device supporting element that is fabricated to have a rectangular cross-section. Furthermore, the U-shaped pocket 720 is configured to support optical-device 722 therein (such as the optical-devices 608A-B of FIG. 6). The optical-device 722 can be implemented as a light source that is operable to emit light therefrom. As shown, the supporting element 700 further comprises an intermediate lateral supporting element 716 integral with the linear supporting element 710, of the U-shaped pocket 720, away from the L-shaped structure 718, wherein the intermediate lateral supporting element 716 is arranged perpendicular to the linear supporting element 710. The lateral supporting element 716 is configured to support a ceiling panel thereon.
FIG. 8 depicts a cross section of a supporting element 800 that includes a mounting portion 802, and two supporting portions 804A-B. As shown, each of the two supporting portions 804A-B can be implemented as the supporting portion 704 (with reference to FIG. 7). The supporting element 800 can be fabricated by integrally forming the supporting portion 804A on one side of the mounting portion 802 and by integrally forming the supporting portion 804B on another side of the mounting portion 802.
FIG. 9 depicts a cross section of a supporting element 900 that includes a mounting portion 902 and a supporting portion 904. As shown, the supporting portion 904 includes an L-shaped structure 906, such as the L-shaped structure 718 (with reference to FIG. 7). Furthermore, the supporting portion 904 includes a U-shaped pocket 908, such as the U-shaped pocket 720 (with reference to FIG. 7). The U-shaped pocket 908 is a optical-device supporting element that is fabricated to have a rhomboidal cross-section. Furthermore, as shown, the supporting element 900 further comprises an intermediate lateral supporting element 910 integral with a linear supporting element 912, of the U-shaped pocket 908, away from the L-shaped structure 706, wherein the intermediate lateral supporting element 910 is arranged inclined to the linear supporting element 912. The lateral supporting element 910 is integrally formed to be inclined with respect to the U-shaped pocket 908, such as, within an angle in a range of 60° to 120° with respect to the linear supporting element 912 of the U-shaped pocket 908 that the lateral supporting element 910 is integrally formed therewith.
FIG. 10 depicts a cross section of a supporting element 1000 that includes a mounting portion 1002, and two supporting portions 1004A-B. As shown, each of the two supporting portions 1004A-B can be implemented as the supporting portion 904 (with reference to FIG. 9). The supporting element 1000 can be fabricated by integrally forming the supporting portion 1004A on one side of the mounting portion 1002 and by integrally forming the supporting portion 1004B on another side of the mounting portion 1002.
FIGS. 11-15 are illustrations of exemplary implementations of the supporting element (as shown in FIG. 2), in accordance with various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure. As shown, the FIGS. 11-15 depict that the at least one supporting portion 1102, 1202, 1302, 1402, 1502, when in operation, supports a portion of the given ceiling panel 1104, 1204, 1304, 1404, 1504, or an optical-device 1106A-B, 1206, 1306A-B, 1406, 1506. Optionally, the optical-device comprises at least one of: a light source, a light guide, a diffuser, a reflector or a refractive lens. Furthermore optionally, the light source comprises one of: a LED light, an incandescent light, a monochromatic light, a laser, and a combination thereof.
Optionally, the ceiling device comprises at least one of: the optical-device or a sensor. More optionally, the optical-device comprises at least one of: a light source, a light guide, a diffuser, a reflector or a refractive lens. Yet more optionally, the light source comprises one of a LED light, an incandescent light, a monochromatic light, a laser, and a combination thereof. In an example, based on requirements and desired room lighting combinations, it is to achieve a target aesthetic look of a room of a house. In one example, if a room is meant to be a study room, an incandescent light and a monochromatic light may be used to improve a psychological soothing effect of the room. In another example, when the room is meant to be in a party or celebrations environment, multichromatic light may be used to create an interesting and appealing look thereto.
Optionally, the sensor comprises one or more of: a smoke-detector, a proximity sensor, a light sensor, a motion sensor, and a combination thereof. Optionally, the sensor comprises one of a smoke-detector, a proximity sensor, a light sensor, a motion sensor, and a combination thereof. In an example, there is provided a house with a multilevel security arrangement including multiple combinations of sensors placed along with the optical-devices implemented as light sources. In an example, smoke-detectors may be used to provide an alarm when a fire or burning happens in the house. In another example, proximity sensors and motion sensors are used to detect strangers or movements of objects. In yet another example, light sensors may be used to detect lighting conditions such as ambient light and control the light sources accordingly.
Optionally, the supporting element further comprises a wireless-device operatively coupled to the light source and the sensor. The wireless-device is configured to control operation of the light source and the sensor. For example, the wireless-device is communicatively coupled to an input-device (such as a remote control, or a smartphone comprising a software application installed thereon) that is used by a user to provide a user-input. The input-device is configured to transmit the user-input provided by the user as instructions to the wireless-device of the supporting element. Furthermore, the wireless-device is configured to control the operation of the light source and/or the sensor based on the instructions. In an example, the light source is implemented as a multichromatic LED light that can emit lights of different colors. Furthermore, the LED light emits light of blue color. In such an example, a user provides a user-input to change a color of light emitted by the LED light from the blue color to violet color. Consequently, the wireless-device is configured to control operation of the LED light by changing the color of the emitted light from blue color to violet color, such that the LED light emits light of violet color. In another example, the wireless-device is operatively coupled to a motion sensor. In such an example, a user can provide a user-input to commence operation of the motion sensor, such as, prior to leaving a room wherein the motion sensor is installed. Optionally, the wireless-device is operatively coupled to the optical-device, the sensor or the input-device using a wireless communication network. For example, the wireless communication network includes, but is not limited to, a Bluetooth® network, an infrared network, a Wi-Fi® network, a telecommunications network and so forth.
As shown in FIG. 11, the supporting portion of the supporting element supports a portion of the given ceiling panel 1104 in a plane that is higher than the general ceiling plane 1108. Furthermore, the supporting portion also supports the optical-device implemented as the light source. Optionally, the light source 1106, when in operation, is arranged to emit light radiation 1110 in a distance between the given ceiling panel 1104 and the general ceiling plane 1108. Furthermore, the given ceiling panel 1104 is placed such that there exists a recess between the given ceiling panel 1104 and the general ceiling plane 1108. Beneficially, the recess is illuminated using the light radiation 1110. More optionally, the light sources 1106A-B are directed towards a center of their respective cell when the given ceiling panel 1104 is mounted higher than the general ceiling plane 1108. Furthermore, inward facing of light sources 1106A-B direct the light radiation 1110 towards the center of their respective cell.
As shown in FIG. 12, the supporting portion of the supporting element supports a portion of the given ceiling panel 1204 in a plane that is lower than the general ceiling plane 1208. Furthermore, the supporting portion also supports the optical-device implemented as the light source. Optionally, the light source 1206, when in operation, is arranged to emit light radiation 1210 in a distance between the given ceiling panel 1204 and the general ceiling plane 1208. More optionally, the light sources 1206A-B are directed outwardly away from a center of their respective cell when the given ceiling panel is mounted lower than the general ceiling plane. Furthermore, outward facing of light sources 1206A-B direct the light radiation 1210 outwardly away from the center of their respective cell.
As shown in FIG. 13, the supporting portion of the supporting element supports 1302 a portion of the given ceiling panel 1304 at a non-zero tilted angle relative to general ceiling plane 1308. Optionally, the tilted angle is in a range of 1° to 90° with respect to the general ceiling plane 1308. More optionally, the tilted angle is in a range of 1° to 30° with respect to the general ceiling plane 1308. Yet more optionally, the tilted angle may be in a range of 1° to 15° with respect to the general ceiling plane 1308. Furthermore, the supporting portion also supports the light source 1306A-B. Optionally, the light source 1306A-B, when in operation, is arranged to emit light radiation 1310 in a distance between the given ceiling panel 1304 and the general ceiling plane 1308. More optionally, the light sources 1306A-B are directed towards a center of their respective cell when the given ceiling panel 1304 is mounted at the tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane.
As shown in FIG. 14, the supporting portion of the supporting element supports 1402 a portion of the given ceiling panel 1404 at a non-zero tilted angle relative to general ceiling plane 1408. Optionally, the tilted angle is in a range of 1° to 90° with respect to the general ceiling plane 1408. More optionally, the tilted angle is in a range of 1° to 30° with respect to the general ceiling plane 1408. Yet more optionally, the tilted angle is in a range of 1° to 15° with respect to the general ceiling plane 1408. Furthermore, the supporting portion also supports the sensor 1406. More optionally, the sensor comprises one of a smoke-detector, a proximity sensor, a light sensor, a motion sensor, and a combination thereof.
As shown in FIG. 15, the supporting portion of the supporting element supports 1502 a portion of the given ceiling panel 1504 at a non-zero tilted angle relative to general ceiling plane 1508. Optionally, the tilted angle is in a range of 1° to 90° with respect to the general ceiling plane 1508. More optionally, the tilted angle is in a range of 3° to 15° with respect to the general ceiling plane 1508.
Furthermore, the supporting portion also supports the light source 1506A-B. Optionally, the light source 1506A-B, when in operation, is arranged to emit light radiation 1510 in a distance between the given ceiling panel 1504 and the general ceiling plane 1508. More optionally, the light sources 1506A-B are directed towards a center of their respective cell when the given ceiling panel 1504 is mounted at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane 1508.
FIGS. 16-20 are illustrations of exemplary implementations of the supporting element (as shown in FIG. 6), in accordance with various exemplary implementations of the present disclosure. As shown, the FIGS. 16-20 depict the at least one supporting portion 1602, 1702, 1802, 1902, 2002, when in operation, that supports a portion (such as, at least one of an edge) of the given ceiling panel 1604, 1704, 1804, 1904, 2004 and optical- devices 1601, 1712, 1806, 1910, 2008. The optical- devices 1601, 1712, 1806, 1910, 2008 are implemented as light sources (such as the light sources 608A-B of FIG. 6).
As shown in FIG. 16, the supporting elements 1602 support the ceiling panel 1604 therebetween. Furthermore, the supporting element 1602 comprises an optical-device supporting element 1606 coupled to a linear supporting element 1608. The optical-device supporting element 1606 includes a linear configuration and is coupled to the linear supporting element 1608 in an inclined manner, such as, within an angle in a range of 60° to 120° with respect to the linear supporting element 1608. Furthermore, the optical-device supporting element 1606 supports an optical-device implemented as a light source 1610 therein. Furthermore, the supporting element 1602 comprises a power source 1612, arranged between mounting portion 1614 and the optical-device supporting element 1606, for providing electrical power to the light source 1610 (and optionally, to a sensor and a wireless-device mounted onto the supporting elements 1602).
As shown in FIG. 17, the supporting elements 1702 support the ceiling panel 1704 therebetween. The supporting element 1702 comprises an optical-device supporting element 1706, wherein the optical-device supporting element 1706 includes an arcuate configuration. The optical-device supporting element 1706 is supported by a linear supporting element 1708 arranged in an inclined manner relative to L-shaped structure 1710, such as, within an angle in a range of 60° to 120° relative to the L-shaped structure 1710. The optical-device supporting element 1706 supports an optical-device implemented as a light source 1712 thereon. As shown, the light source 1712 is arranged in an arcuate configuration corresponding to the arcuate configuration of the optical-device supporting element 1706. Furthermore, the supporting element 1702 comprises a power source 1714 for providing electrical power to the light source 1712.
As shown in FIG. 18, the supporting elements 1802 support the ceiling panel 1804 therebetween. The supporting element 1802 comprises a light guide supporting element 1806 including a linear configuration, wherein the light guide supporting element 1806 is arranged perpendicular to L-shaped structure 1808 of the supporting element 1802. The light guide supporting element 1806 supports an electrically and/or electronically operated ceiling device implemented as a light source 1810 therein.
As shown in FIG. 19, the supporting elements 1902 support the ceiling panel 1904 therebetween. The supporting element 1902 comprises a optical-device supporting element 1906, wherein the optical-device supporting element 1906 includes a linear configuration. Furthermore, optical-device supporting element 1906 is arranged in an inclined manner relative to L-shaped structure 1908 of the supporting element 1902, such as, within an angle in a range of 60° to 120° relative to the L-shaped structure 1908. The optical-device supporting element 1906 supports an optical-device implemented as a light source 1910 thereon. As shown, the light source 1910 is arranged in an inclined manner corresponding to the arrangement of the optical-device supporting element 1906 relative to the L-shaped structure 1908. Furthermore, the supporting element 1902 comprises a power source 1912 for providing electrical power to the light source 1910.
As shown in FIG. 20, the supporting element 2002 comprises an optical-device supporting element 2004. The optical-device supporting element 2004 is arranged in an inclined manner relative to L-shaped structure 2006 of the supporting element 2002, such as, within an angle in a range of 60° to 120° relative to the L-shaped structure 2006. The optical-device supporting element 2004 supports an optical-device implemented as a light source 2008 thereon. As shown, the optical-device supporting element 2004 includes a lateral supporting element 2010, wherein the lateral supporting elements 2010 support the ceiling panel 2012 thereon. It will be appreciated that a length of the ceiling panel 2012 defines a gap between the supporting elements 2002, such as, between the lateral supporting elements 2010.
FIG. 21 depicts a suspended ceiling system 2100 including “T”-bars 2102A-B and 2104. Furthermore, a supporting element 2106 is supported on the “T”-bar 2104, wherein the supporting element 2106 includes optical-device supporting elements 2108. As shown, each optical-device supporting element 2108 supports an optical-device implemented as a light source 2110 thereon. Moreover, the suspended ceiling system 2100 comprises a reflective housing 2112, to provide a reflective surface to the light source 2110, mounted on the supporting element 2106. The reflective housing 2112 is configured to reflect the light emitted by the light source 2110 in one or more directions. Optionally, the reflective housing 2112 includes a mirror surface as an external surface thereof.
FIG. 22 depicts a suspended ceiling system 2200, such as the suspended ceiling system 2200 (shown in FIG. 21). The suspended ceiling system 2200 includes “T”-bars 2202A-B and 2204. Furthermore, a supporting element 2206 is supported on the “T”-bar 2204, wherein the supporting element 2206 includes optical-device supporting elements 2208. As shown, the optical-device supporting elements 2208 are arranged in an inclined manner relative to the “T”-bar 2204, such as, within an angle in a range of 30° to 60°. Furthermore, each optical-device supporting element 2208 supports an optical-device implemented as a light source 2210 thereon. Moreover, the suspended ceiling system 2200 comprises a reflective housing 2212, to provide a reflective surface to the light source 2210, mounted on the supporting element 2206. Furthermore, a length of the supporting element can be less than or equal to a length of the “T”-bar. Consequently, a plurality of supporting elements can be arranged on a “T”-bar, wherein a length of each of the plurality of supporting elements is less than the length of the “T”-bar. Optionally, the length of a given supporting element is equal to one of: the length of a given “T”-bar, half of the length of the given “T”-bar, one-third of the length of the given “T”-bar or a quarter of the length of the given “T”-bar. However, the length of the supporting element can correspond to any one of a partial length of the given “T”-bar. For example, the length of the supporting element can be two-thirds of the length of the given “T”-bar. Moreover, a supporting element can be arranged on each side of a given “T”-bar. Optionally, the supporting elements includes at least a pair of the supporting elements, mounted on either side of the given “T”-bar, when each of the pair of the supporting elements has a length equal to one of: half of the length of the given “T”-bar, one-third of the length of the given “T”-bar or a quarter of the length of the given “T”-bar. For example, a supporting element having half a length of a given “T”-bar, is arranged on one side of the given “T”-bar and another supporting element having half the length of the given “T”-bar, is arranged on another side of the given “T”-bar. However, it will be appreciated that supporting elements having different lengths can be arranged on different sides of the given “T”-bar. For example, a supporting element having one-third length of a given “T”-bar, is arranged on one side of the given “T”-bar and another supporting element having two-thirds the length of the given “T”-bar, is arranged on another side of the given “T”-bar.
FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an exemplary suspended ceiling system 2300, such as the supporting elements 1602 of FIG. 16 and 700 of FIG. 7. The supporting elements 1602 and 700 support a ceiling panel 2302 thereon. As shown, the ceiling panel 2302 is supported above a ceiling plane 2304. Furthermore, the supporting element 700 supports a ceiling panel 2306 thereon, such as, on the lateral supporting element 716. As shown, the ceiling panel 2306 is supported below the ceiling plane 2304. It will be appreciated that, such supporting of the ceiling panel 2302 above the ceiling plane 2304 and the ceiling panel 2306 below the ceiling plane, gives a three-dimensional appearance to the suspended ceiling system 2300.
Furthermore, the supporting elements 1602 supports a ceiling device 2308 implemented as a sensor. Moreover, the supporting element 700 further comprises a power source 2310 for providing electrical power to the optical-device implemented as a light source 722 and to the ceiling device 2308 implemented as the sensor.
Optionally, an external surface of at least one linear supporting element and/or at least one of the plurality of lateral supporting elements, of the supporting element 1602 and/or the supporting element 700, comprises at least one of a colored surface, a textured surface, and/or a reflective surface. For example, an external surface of the optical-device supporting element 1606 comprises a blue-colored surface and an external surface of the linear supporting element 1608 comprises an angularly-textured surface (such as, a surface that is configured to reflect light only when the light is incident thereon at specific angles. Optionally, such surface is configured to reflect the light such that the light is scattered at different angles therefrom). Furthermore, an external surface of the linear supporting element 710 comprises a reflective surface and an external surface of the lateral supporting element 712 comprises a green-colored surface. In such an example, when light (such as white light) is emitted on the suspended ceiling system 2300 (such as, due to emission of light from light sources 1610, 722 and/or any other external light sources), the light is reflected by the blue-colored surface of the light guide supporting element 1606 as blue light and the light is scattered by the angularly-textured surface of the linear supporting element 1608. Moreover, the incident light is reflected by the reflective surface of the linear supporting element 710 and the incident light is reflected as green light by the green-colored surface of the lateral supporting element 712. It will be appreciated that such reflection and scattering of the incident of light in different colors and along different paths, enables to provide an aesthetically appealing ambiance within a room wherein the suspended ceiling system 2300 is installed. Furthermore, such a reflection of the incident light that may be emitted from natural sources, reduces a requirement for providing artificial light within the room, thereby, allowing to reduce energy consumption (and consequently, cost thereof) for lighting purposes within the room. Optionally, the textured surface comprises at least one of: a light-diffusing surface, a specular surface, and/or angularly-textured surface.
Optionally, at least one linear supporting element of the supporting element 1602 and/or the supporting element 700 is fabricated using a first type of material and at least one of the plurality of lateral supporting elements of the supporting element 1602 and/or the supporting element 700 is fabricated using a second type of material. For example, the linear supporting element 1608 is fabricated using extruded aluminum and the optical-device supporting element 1606 is fabricated using recycled plastic. Furthermore, the linear supporting element 710 is fabricated using stainless steel and the lateral supporting element 716 is fabricated using carbon fiber. In such an example, fabricating the at least one linear supporting element and the plurality of lateral supporting elements using different elements, enables to provide different structural properties thereto, while controlling a manufacturing cost associated with fabricating the suspended ceiling system 2300. For example, fabricating the lateral supporting element 716 using carbon fiber enables to provide increased tensile strength thereto while reducing a mass thereof, thereby, allowing lateral supporting element 716 to support the ceiling panel 2306 thereon and reduce an overall mass of the suspended ceiling system 2300 and/or the supporting element 700. Furthermore, fabricating the optical-device supporting element 1606 using recycled plastic enables to provide increased safety associated with use of an electrically insulating material for housing an electrically and/or electronically operated devices therein. Alternatively, the optical-device supporting element 1606 is fabricated using steel, thereby allowing absorption of generated heat when the optical-device is implemented as electrically and/or electronically operated light sources 1610 and 2308. Consequently, fabricating the at least one linear supporting element and/or the plurality of lateral supporting elements using different materials, enables to not only provide different physical properties (such as, electrical insulation, heat absorption, sound absorption and so forth), but also different visual appearances thereto, thereby, further enabling to improve aesthetic appearance of the suspended ceiling system 2300. More optionally, the first type of material and the second type of material comprises one of: aluminum, steel, metal, metal alloy, ceramic, composite, plastic. For example, the first type of material is a metal such as copper, a metal alloy such as stainless steel or a ceramic such as polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and the second type of material is a composite such as carbon fiber or a plastic such as recycled polycarbonate or polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Optionally, the first type of material is same as the second type of material. For example, the first type of material and the second type of material is stainless steel.
FIG. 24 is an illustration of a suspended ceiling system 2400, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown, the suspended ceiling system 2400 comprises a plurality of ceiling panels 2402A-D supported by a plurality of supporting elements 2404A-D (such as the supporting elements of FIGS. 2 to 22). As shown, the ceiling panels are supported in a tilted (or higher or lower) manner relative to a general ceiling plane 2406 of the suspended ceiling system 2400. Such supporting of the plurality of ceiling panels 2402A-D by the plurality of supporting elements 2404A-D provides a three-dimensional appearance to the suspended ceiling system 2400. The suspended ceiling system 2400 also depicts covering members, such as covering members 2408A-B.
FIG. 25 is an illustration of a method 2500 for installing a suspended ceiling system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The method flow chart shows steps of a method of installing a suspended ceiling system having hanging wires coupled to a structural ceiling, “T”-bars supported by the hanging wires, and a plurality of ceiling panels arranged on array of cells defined by the “T”-bars, wherein flat end-portions of the “T”-bars define a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels. At a step 2502, supporting elements are mounted onto the T″-bars, for supporting the plurality of ceiling panels thereon along with the T″-bars, wherein the supporting elements, when in operation, support a given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels in at least one of higher than the general ceiling plane, lower than the general ceiling plane, and/or at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane. At a step 2504, ceiling devices are mounted on the supporting elements.
Optionally, the method includes removing the plurality of ceiling panels prior to mounting the supporting elements onto the “T”-bars, mounting the supporting elements onto the “T”-bars, mounting the ceiling devices on the supporting elements, and mounting the plurality of removed ceiling panels onto the supporting elements.
Embodiments of the present disclosure provides a supporting element for a suspended ceiling system. In another aspect, the present disclosure also provides a suspended ceiling system including the supporting element. The suspended ceiling system can be formed by supporting a plurality of ceiling panels on a plurality of supporting elements. Such supporting of the ceiling panels on the supporting elements enables convenient installation and replacement of the suspended ceiling system, such as, by arranging the supporting elements on “T”-bars and arranging the ceiling panels on the supporting elements. Furthermore, when one or more supporting elements of the plurality of supporting elements are determined to have a defect therein, the defective supporting element can be easily replaced without having to replace an entirety of the suspended ceiling system. Furthermore, the supporting elements can be easily and cost-effectively fabricated to have different properties (such as, orientations of linear and/or lateral supporting elements) relative to each other, thereby, enabling to provide different appearances and easy customizability to the suspended ceiling system. The supporting elements can be used to support the ceiling panels, as well as other components, such as ceiling devices including electrically and/or electronically operated devices such as sensors, optical-devices such as light sources and so forth. Such electrically and/or electronically operated ceiling devices and optical-devices can be used to provide additional functionality to the suspended ceiling system (such as, using a plurality of sensors, smoke detectors and so forth for increasing a safety in an enclosure wherein the suspended ceiling system is installed), and/or for improving an aesthetic appearance associated with the suspended ceiling system (such as, by using a plurality of light sources, multichromatic light sources and so forth) respectively. Furthermore, the present disclosure also provides a method for (of) installing a suspended ceiling system. Furthermore, the suspended ceiling system includes supporting element mounted on “T”-bars to support ceiling panels. Such supporting elements can be mounted on existing “T”-bars associated with conventional suspended ceiling systems, thereby, enabling easy, time-efficient and cost-efficient replacement of a conventional suspended ceiling system with a suspended ceiling system of the present disclosure. For example, when the conventional suspended ceiling system comprises troffer fixtures therein, supporting elements can be installed on the conventional suspended ceiling system, such in a 2×4, 2×2 or 1×4 configuration. For example, two supporting elements with an integrated light source can be installed on either side of the troffer fixture and two supporting elements can be installed on either end of the troffer fixture, with a ceiling panel arranged on one or more of the supporting elements. Alternatively, a covering element can be arranged on one or more of the supporting elements instead of the ceiling panels. Beneficially, the present disclosure provides a suspended ceiling system to improvise maintenance of the appearance of ceiling panels. Specifically, the supporting elements are mounted on the “T”-bars of the suspended ceiling arrangements to support the ceiling panels at different orientations such as in a plane parallel and above, below, and at a tilted to flat end portions of the “T”-bars. Additionally, the ceiling panels are arranged at different orientations to provide a three-dimensional appearance to the suspended ceiling system. It will be appreciated that such a suspended ceiling system having the three-dimensional appearance corresponds to an appealing appearance thereof. Furthermore, orientations of supporting elements and/or ceiling panels can be easily changed, thereby, enabling convenient customization of the suspended ceiling system.
Modifications to embodiments of the present disclosure described in the foregoing are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the accompanying claims. Expressions such as “including”, “comprising”, “incorporating”, “have”, “is” used to describe and claim the present disclosure are intended to be construed in a non-exclusive manner, namely allowing for items, components or elements not explicitly described also to be present. Reference to the singular is also to be construed to relate to the plural.

Claims

1-43. (canceled)

44. A supporting element for a suspended ceiling system,

wherein the suspended ceiling system:

(i) includes hanging wires coupled to a structural ceiling;

(ii) includes “T”-bars supported by the hanging wires; and

(iii) includes a plurality of ceiling panels arranged in an array of cells defined by the “T”-bars,

wherein flat end-portions of the “T”-bars defines a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels,

wherein the supporting element, when in operation, supports a given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels in at least one of:

higher than the general ceiling plane;

lower than the general ceiling plane; or

at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane;

wherein the given ceiling panel, of the plurality of ceiling panels, supported by the supporting element provides a three-dimensional appearance to the suspended ceiling system.

45. The supporting element of claim 44, wherein the supporting element comprises:

a mounting portion that is detachably mounted in operation on a given “T”-bar; and

at least one supporting portion that is integral with the mounting portion, wherein the at least one supporting portion, when in operation, supports at least one of:

a portion of the given ceiling panel;

a covering element; or

a ceiling device.

46. The supporting element of claim 45, wherein the mounting portion includes an elongate U-shaped structure formed by:

a single continuous mounting element; or

a plurality of flat mounting elements.

47. The supporting element of claim 46, wherein the supporting portion includes:

at least one linear supporting element extending along or opposite to at least one leg of the elongate U-shaped structure; and

a plurality of lateral supporting elements extending from the at least one linear supporting element.

48. The supporting element of claim 45, wherein the supporting portion includes

a plurality of linear supporting elements; and

a plurality of lateral supporting elements, wherein a given linear supporting element is integral with a given lateral supporting element to form a L-shaped structure;

wherein a plurality of L-shaped structures, corresponding to the plurality of linear supporting elements and lateral supporting elements, is integral to form a square zigzag structure.

49. The supporting element of claim 45, wherein the supporting portion includes

a plurality of linear supporting elements; and

a plurality of lateral supporting elements, wherein a given lateral supporting element is integral with at least one linear supporting element to form one of a L-shaped structure or a U-shaped pocket;

wherein the L-shaped structure is integral with the U-shaped pocket.

50. The supporting element of claim 49, further comprising an intermediate lateral supporting element integral with one of a linear supporting element, of the U-shaped pocket, away from the L-shaped structure, wherein the intermediate lateral supporting element is arranged perpendicular or inclined to the linear supporting element.

51. The supporting element of claim 47, further comprising an optical-device supporting element, wherein the optical-device supporting element is coupled to at least one of:

a given linear supporting element of the at least one linear supporting element, or

a given lateral supporting element of the plurality of lateral supporting elements.

52. The supporting element of claim 51, wherein the ceiling device comprises at least one of: the optical-device or a sensor.

53. The supporting element of claim 51, wherein the optical-device comprises at least one of: a light source, a light guide, a diffuser, a reflector or a refractive lens.

54. A suspended ceiling system having hanging wires coupled to a structural ceiling, “T”-bars supported by the hanging wires and a plurality of ceiling panels arranged in an array of cells defined by the “T”-bars, wherein flat end-portions of the “T”-bars define a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels,

wherein the suspended ceiling system further comprises:

supporting elements that are mounted in operation on the T″-bars for supporting the plurality of ceiling panels thereon, wherein the supporting elements, when in operation, support a given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels in at least one of:

higher than the general ceiling plane;

lower than the general ceiling plane; or

at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane; and

wherein the given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels, supported by the supporting, element provides a three-dimensional appearance to the ceiling system; and

ceiling devices, when in operation, mounted on the supporting elements.

55. The suspended ceiling system of claim 54, wherein each of the supporting elements comprises:

a mounting portion that is detachably mounted on the given “T”-bar; and

at least one supporting portion integral with the mounting portion, wherein the at least one supporting portion, when in operation, supports at least one of:

a portion of the given ceiling panel;

a covering element; or

the ceiling devices.

56. The suspended ceiling system of claim 55, wherein the mounting portion includes an elongate U-shaped structure formed by:

a single continuous mounting element; or

a plurality of flat mounting elements.

57. The suspended ceiling system of claim 56, wherein the supporting portion includes:

58. The suspended ceiling system of claim 55, wherein the supporting portion includes:

a plurality of linear supporting elements; and

59. The suspended ceiling system of claim 55, wherein the supporting portion includes

a plurality of linear supporting elements; and

wherein the L-shaped structure is integral with the U-shaped pocket.

60. The suspended ceiling system of claim 57, wherein the supporting portion further comprises an optical-device supporting element, wherein the optical-device supporting element is coupled to at least one of:

61. The suspended ceiling system of claim 60, wherein the optical-device comprises at least one of: a light source, a light guide, a diffuser, a reflector or a refractive lens.

62. The suspended ceiling system of claim 54, wherein the supporting elements includes at least a pair of the supporting elements, mounted on either side of the given “T”-bar, when each of the pair of the supporting elements has a length equal to one of: half of the length of the given “T”-bar, one-third of the length of the given “T”-bar or a quarter of the length of the given “T”-bar.

63. A method for installing a suspended ceiling system having hanging wires coupled to a ceiling, “T”-bars supported by the hanging wires, and a plurality of ceiling panels arranged on array of cells defined by the “T”-bars, wherein flat end-portions of the “T”-bars define a general ceiling plane for the plurality of ceiling panels, wherein the method includes:

mounting supporting elements onto the “T”-bars, for supporting the plurality of ceiling panels thereon along with the “T”-bars, wherein the supporting elements, when in operation, support a given ceiling panel of the plurality of ceiling panels in at least one of:

higher than the general ceiling plane;

lower than the general ceiling plane; or

at a tilted angle relative to the general ceiling plane; and

mounting ceiling devices on the supporting elements.