by AF 0621d3 NEOCON — June 24, 2009—Armstrong Ceilings has introduced DC FlexZone, a ceiling grid system with the ability to distribute safe, low voltage direct current (DC) power to lighting fixtures, sensors and other electrical devices in the ceiling. The system was introduced during NeoCon World’s Trade Fair, at The Merchandise Mart, Chicago.
The new grid system significantly improves the flexibility and reuse of interior spaces by enabling faster and easier repurposing and reconfigurations to satisfy the changing needs of the occupants without the need to rewire. By providing plug and play modularity, DC FlexZone greatly simplifies the management and control of lighting and other devices normally found in the ceilings of commercial buildings.
It can also contribute to the energy efficiency of buildings by enabling the use of more energy efficient devices and controls. For example, the DC FlexZone grid system can help accelerate the use of DC-based Light-Emitting Diode (LED) and other solid-state lighting devices.
Additionally, the distribution of DC power directly through interior infrastructures such as ceilings can be a key component in systems that make more efficient use of on-site DC-based renewable energy sources, such as solar, says the company.
The system is available in two popular Armstrong grid designs, Suprafine T-bar and Silhouette bolt-slot.
Armstrong Ceilings is a founding member of the EMerge Alliance, an open industry association promoting the rapid adoption of safe, low-voltage DC power distribution and use in commercial interiors. For more information, see the Armstrong Web site.
