Sound barrier

Abstract

A sound barrier includes: an acoustic panel including two opposing major faces and a plurality of minor faces extending between the two major faces, where the acoustic panel is an artificial glass fiber (MMVF) panel; a spacer element fixed to the first secondary face of the acoustic panel, where the spacer element comprises a ferromagnetic material; and at least one magnet fixed to the second secondary face of the acoustic panel.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an acoustic baffle, an acoustic baffle system, a method of installing an acoustic baffle system, and a kit for installing an acoustic baffle system. Background Art

[0002] Acoustic baffles are known in the art and are typically provided in the form of acoustic panels that are suspended from a ceiling using suspension cables, for example as disclosed in EP 3 404 322 A1.

[0003] Suspension cables are usually attached to the top of the panel. However, acoustic panels suspended in this way have a tendency to wobble and move in the horizontal plane. Therefore, acoustic panels are usually suspended using two suspension cables, one at each end of the acoustic panel. However, this increases the cost of the acoustic panel and the time taken to install the acoustic panel. Furthermore, an acoustic panel suspended with two suspension cables may still move in the horizontal plane.

[0004] It may be desirable to connect baffles together for aesthetic or acoustic purposes.

[0005] It is known to connect acoustic panels together using magnets, for example as disclosed in EP3404322A1 and EP2990559A2. However, prior art systems are generally complex and heavy, thus increasing the material and cost required to manufacture them. Furthermore, heavier sound baffles are more difficult to hang from the ceiling and pose a safety risk if they fall. Known systems also do not allow the relative position of the sound baffles to be easily adjusted during installation or maintenance to ensure precise alignment. Furthermore, the sound baffles cannot be easily disconnected and reconnected if necessary.

[0006] It is desirable to manufacture acoustic panels from materials having good sound absorption properties, such as man-made vitreous fibres (MMVF), for example as disclosed in EP0539290 and US11293608. However, MMVF does not necessarily have a high level of mechanical integrity. This is a problem when the acoustic panel is suspended from above, because the load from the weight of the panel is transferred to the suspension device via the material of the acoustic panel itself, i.e. the load path created by the weight of the panel passes through the acoustic panel material. Therefore, hanging MMVF acoustic panels from above may compromise the stability of the suspended acoustic panel, particularly for heavier acoustic panels. This may limit the size or density of acoustic panels that can be used. Since the sound baffles are suspended overhead, they are dangerous if they fall, for example in a fire or earthquake.

[0007] Furthermore, it may be desirable to attach additional elements, such as lights, to the sound baffle. For example, US11293608 discloses a sound baffle suspended from a ceiling, wherein a light module is attached to the underside of the acoustic panel. However, this further increases the load through the material of the acoustic panel (e.g., MMVF), thereby reducing the stability and safety of the sound baffle. Summary of the invention

[0008] In a first aspect of the present invention, a sound baffle is provided, comprising: an acoustic panel comprising two opposite main surfaces and a plurality of secondary surfaces extending between the two main surfaces, wherein the acoustic panel is a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel; a spacer element fixed to the first primary surface of the acoustic panel, wherein the spacer element comprises a ferromagnetic material; and at least one magnet, wherein the at least one magnet is fixed to the second secondary surface of the acoustic panel.

[0009] The present invention provides sound baffles that can be easily connected together by contacting at least one magnet of one sound baffle with a spacing element of another sound baffle. The spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material and is therefore attracted to the at least one magnet. The magnetic attraction holds the two sound baffles together.

[0010] The inventors have discovered that the magnetic connection between the baffles provides stability against movement of the baffles in the horizontal plane even when only a single suspension cable is used per baffle.

[0011] The sound baffle of the present invention requires very few parts to be connected together. Therefore, the sound baffle can be made lightweight, making installation easier.

[0012] Furthermore, the position of the at least one magnet relative to the spacing element may be easily adjusted to precisely align the spacer, for example during installation and maintenance.

[0013] In a second aspect of the present invention, a sound baffle system is provided, comprising: a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposite main surfaces and one or more secondary surfaces extending between the two main surfaces, wherein each acoustic panel is a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel, and wherein each acoustic panel is suspended from a ceiling; a spacing element, which is fixed to the secondary surface of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material; and at least one magnet, at least one magnet is fixed to the secondary surface of the second acoustic panel; wherein a surface of the at least one magnet contacts a surface of the spacing element, thereby connecting the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel together.

[0014] In a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of installing an acoustic baffle system, the method comprising:

[0015] (i) providing a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposing major faces and one or more minor faces extending between the two major faces, and wherein each acoustic panel is a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel;

[0016] (ii) securing a spacing element to the secondary face of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material;

[0017] (iii) securing at least one magnet to the secondary surface of the second acoustic panel;

[0018] (iv) suspending the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel from a ceiling; and

[0019] (v) contacting a surface of at least one magnet with a surface of a spacing element to connect the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel together.

[0020] In a fourth aspect of the present invention, a kit for installing a sound baffle system is provided, the kit comprising: a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposite main surfaces and one or more secondary surfaces extending between the two main surfaces, and wherein each acoustic panel is a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel; a spacing element, the spacing element being configured to be attached to the secondary surface of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material; at least one magnet, the at least one magnet being configured to be attached to the secondary surface of the second acoustic panel; and one or more suspension elements, the one or more suspension elements being used to suspend the acoustic panel from a ceiling.

[0021] In a fifth aspect of the present invention, a sound baffle system is provided, comprising: an acoustic panel comprising two opposite main surfaces and a plurality of secondary surfaces extending between the two main surfaces, wherein the acoustic panel is suspended from a ceiling by a suspension element; and a supporting element extending through the acoustic panel between an upper secondary surface and a lower secondary surface of the acoustic panel, wherein an upper end of the supporting element is attached to the suspension element, and a lower end of the supporting element is attached to a frame element on the lower secondary surface of the acoustic panel.

[0022] The suspension elements and support elements support the weight of the acoustic panel from below via the frame elements. Thus, the load path bypasses the material of the acoustic panel, which increases the overall stability of the suspended acoustic baffle system and allows the use of larger, heavier acoustic panels. In addition, the frame elements provide attachment points for additional elements to be connected (e.g., one or more lights). The weight of these additional elements is primarily supported by the suspension elements and support elements, rather than by the acoustic panel itself, which avoids compromising the stability and safety of the included acoustic baffle system.

[0023] The same effect can be achieved by connecting the suspension elements directly to the frame elements.

[0024] Therefore, in a sixth aspect of the present invention, a sound baffle system is provided, comprising: an acoustic panel, the acoustic panel comprising two opposite main surfaces and a plurality of secondary surfaces extending between the two main surfaces, wherein the acoustic panel is suspended from a ceiling by a suspension element, wherein the suspension element extends through an upper secondary surface of the acoustic panel to a lower secondary surface of the acoustic panel, and wherein the suspension element is attached to a frame element on the lower secondary surface of the acoustic panel.

[0025] Sound baffle

[0026] The sound baffle of the present invention includes an acoustic panel. As used herein, the term "acoustic panel" refers to a panel made of a material that absorbs sound, i.e., a sound-insulating material. Any suitable acoustic panel can be used, such as a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel, a foam panel, and a wood fiber cement panel.

[0027] Preferably, the acoustic panel is an MMVF panel. MMVF panels have very high porosity and an open surface, which provides the panel with good sound absorption properties.

[0028] The MMVF panel may comprise a bonded non-woven three-dimensional network made of MMVF. The MMVF may be, for example, stone fiber, glass fiber, slag fiber or ceramic fiber.

[0029] Preferably, the MMVF is a mineral fiber.

[0030] The stone fiber may have the following composition, with all quantities expressed as weight % of the oxide and all iron oxides expressed as Fe2O3:

[0031] SiO2 25 to 50, preferably 38 to 48

[0032] Al2O3 12 to 30, preferably 15 to 28

[0033] TiO2 up to 2

[0034] Fe2O3 2 to 12

[0035] CaO 5 to 30, preferably 5 to 18

[0036] MgO up to 15, preferably 4 to 10

[0037] Na2O up to 15

[0038] K2O up to 15

[0039] P2O5 up to 3

[0040] MnO up to 3

[0041] B2O3 up to 3

[0042] An alternative stone fiber composition may be as follows, with all quantities expressed as weight % of oxide and all iron oxides expressed as Fe2O3:

[0043] SiO2 37 to 42

[0044] Al2O3 18 to 23

[0045] CaO+MgO 34 to 39

[0046] Fe2O3 up to 1

[0047] Na2O+K2O up to 3

[0048] The MMVF nonwoven three-dimensional network made of MMVF panels can be bonded using any suitable adhesive. Suitable adhesives include phenolic adhesives, epoxy resin adhesives, acrylic adhesives, water glass adhesives, polypropylene adhesives, polyethylene adhesives, and two-component adhesives.

[0049] The density of the MMVF board suitable for use in the present invention may be 50 kg / m 3 Up to 180kg / m 3 Preferably, the density of the MMVF board is 90 kg / m 3 or greater, most preferably 120 kg / m 3 Up to 150kg / m 3 If the density is too low, it may be difficult to manufacture the panel with a precise shape and / or to securely attach the suspension cables to the panel. If the density is too high, it may be difficult to suspend the panel from the ceiling due to the increased weight of the panel.

[0050] Wood wool cement panels are also suitable for use as acoustic panels in the present invention. Wood wool cement panels may include wood bundles - the "wood wool" component is sometimes referred to as "finess" - bonded with cement. The wood bundles may be in the form of strips, wherein the width of the strips is 0.5 mm to 3 mm.

[0051] The wood wool cement panel may consist entirely of wood wool and cement. Alternatively, the wood wool cement panel may be a "sandwich panel" comprising two wood wool cement boards separated by a core material such as expanded polystyrene, MMVF or other insulating material.

[0052] To improve light distribution in a room in which the acoustic baffle is suspended in use, it may be desirable for the acoustic panel to be particularly reflective of light. In this case, at least a portion of the acoustic panel may be made of a reflective material, or the panel may be coated with a reflective material, such as a reflective paint.

[0053] The acoustic panel used in the sound baffle of the present invention includes two opposing major faces and a plurality of minor faces extending between the two major faces.

[0054] As will be discussed in more detail below, in a first aspect of the invention, a spacing element is secured to a first surface of the acoustic panel and at least one magnet is secured to a second surface of the acoustic panel. The spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material and is therefore attracted to the magnet. This allows the acoustic baffles of the invention to be connected together by contacting at least one magnet of one baffle with the spacing element of another baffle. The magnetic attraction between the at least one magnet and the spacing element holds the two acoustic baffles together.

[0055] As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, any number of acoustic baffles may be connected together in this manner. For example, at least one magnet of a first baffle may be brought into contact with a spacing element of a second baffle, thereby connecting the first baffle and the second baffle together. At least one magnet of a second baffle may then be brought into contact with a spacing element of a third baffle, thereby connecting the second baffle and the third baffle together. This process may be repeated to connect any number of baffles.

[0056] It is preferred that the secondary face of the acoustic panel is opposite to the primary face, as this allows the baffles to be connected together in rows. In this case, it is further preferred that at least one magnet is fixed to the secondary face so that the at least one magnet is opposite to the spacing element fixed to the primary face. This is advantageous because the spacing element and the at least one magnet can be fixed to the same position on the acoustic panel in each baffle, whilst still allowing the baffles to be aligned when they are connected together. This simplifies manufacture as all baffles can be made identical. If the at least one magnet is not fixed opposite to the spacing element, the position of the spacing element and magnet on the acoustic panel may need to be different in different baffles so that the baffles are aligned when they are connected together.

[0057] However, the first and second surfaces as well as the spacing elements and the at least one magnet fixed to said surfaces may be positioned in any position relative to each other to achieve any desired arrangement of the sound baffle.

[0058] The acoustic panel may also include a third surface, which preferably extends between the opposite first and second surfaces. The third surface of the acoustic panel may have a frame element attached thereto, wherein the frame element extends along at least a portion of the length of the third surface. As will be discussed in more detail below, the frame element may assist in the alignment of the acoustic baffle. In addition, the frame element may have one or more lights attached thereto to provide illumination in the room in which the acoustic baffle is suspended in use.

[0059] The acoustic panel may further comprise a fourth secondary face, preferably extending between the opposing first and second secondary faces and preferably opposite the third secondary face.

[0060] As will be discussed in more detail below, preferably, the acoustic panel has one or more suspension cables attached so that the sound baffle can be suspended from the ceiling in use. Preferably, the sound baffle is suspended by one or more suspension cables attached to the fourth secondary face of the acoustic panel. In this case, the fourth secondary face is the upper secondary face of the acoustic panel in the suspended configuration, and the two main faces extend downwardly. In this case, they will typically be suspended so that the main faces extend substantially vertically. Preferably, the first secondary face is on the first side of the acoustic panel and the opposite second secondary face is on the second side of the acoustic panel. This allows the sound baffles to be connected together in rows that extend in a direction substantially parallel to the ceiling. Preferably, the third secondary face is the lower secondary face. This is advantageous because one or more lamps can be attached to the third secondary face via a frame element so that light is directed downwardly into the room.

[0061] The acoustic panel used in the sound baffle of the present invention may have any shape, but it preferably has the form of a conventional panel. In other words, the two main faces of the acoustic panel are preferably substantially planar and parallel. Similarly, the secondary face of the acoustic panel is preferably substantially planar. Furthermore, the two main faces of the acoustic panel are preferably substantially rectangular. The secondary face preferably extends substantially perpendicular to the two main faces.

[0062] The lengths of the first and second surfaces are preferably less than the lengths of the third and fourth surfaces. The length of a secondary surface is defined as the distance that a secondary surface extends between two adjacent secondary surfaces. For example, the length of the third surface may be the distance that the third surface extends between the first and second surfaces.

[0063] The acoustic panel used in the sound baffle of the present invention may have any suitable length, such as from 600mm to 2400mm, preferably from 1000mm to 2000mm, more preferably from 1500mm to 1700mm. The length of the acoustic panel is preferably defined as the average distance between the two most distant opposite secondary faces measured perpendicular to those secondary faces.

[0064] The acoustic panel may have any suitable width, such as from 100mm to 600mm, preferably from 200mm to 500mm, more preferably from 300mm to 400mm.The width of the acoustic panel is preferably defined as the average distance between two opposite secondary faces closest together measured perpendicular to those secondary faces.

[0065] The acoustic panel used in the present invention may have any suitable thickness, such as from 10mm to 100mm, preferably from 30mm to 70mm, more preferably from 40mm to 60mm. The thickness of the panel is defined as the average distance between the two major faces measured perpendicularly to the major faces.

[0066] Spacer element

[0067] A spacing element is secured to the first surface of the acoustic panel.

[0068] As discussed above, the spacing elements include ferromagnetic material so that the spacing elements are attracted to at least one magnet that is fixed to the acoustic panel of another sound baffle. The spacing elements are preferably made of a ferromagnetic metal, such as galvanized steel. However, the spacing elements can be made of any suitable material, as long as they contain enough ferromagnetic material so that the magnetic attraction between the spacing elements and the magnets is strong enough to hold the sound baffles together. For example, the spacing elements can be made of plastic with a sheet of ferromagnetic material attached to it.

[0069] The spacer element includes a surface configured to contact at least one magnet of another sound baffle. The surface is preferably substantially flat to provide optimal surface contact with one or more magnets. In a particularly preferred aspect of the present invention, the spacer element is formed by a substantially flat plate. In this case, a flat surface of the plate contacts the first face of the acoustic panel, and the opposite flat surface of the plate contacts one or more magnets of another sound baffle in use. The flat surface of the plate mentioned above is of course the main face of the substantially flat plate. Other elements of the spacer may be present, such as additional ridges, but any such additional elements will not be configured to interfere with the contact between a flat surface and the magnet and between another flat surface and the secondary face. When two acoustic panels are connected together, the use of a substantially flat plate as a spacer element minimizes the gap between the two acoustic panels, thereby providing a neat and aesthetically pleasing joint. The substantially flat plate is preferably rectangular, and its length is preferably 300mm to 400mm, and its width is preferably 40mm to 60mm.

[0070] The spacing element preferably extends across a majority of the first surface of the acoustic panel, and more preferably extends across substantially the entire first surface. This provides a large surface area for the spacing element to contact one or more magnets of another baffle. In other words, there are more locations on the spacing element that can contact the magnets of another baffle. Therefore, by adjusting the position of the magnets relative to the spacing element, it is easier to align the two baffles.

[0071] However, the spacing element may cover only a portion of the first face of the acoustic panel. This may reduce the material required to manufacture the spacing element, thereby reducing the associated costs. Furthermore, reducing the size of the spacing element may reduce the weight of the acoustic baffle. It is also conceivable that a plurality of spacing elements may be fixed to the first face, wherein each spacing element covers a portion of said face.

[0072] Preferably, the spacing element extends outwardly from the first face of the panel (e.g. perpendicular to the first face) by no more than 10 mm, preferably no more than 5 mm, more preferably no more than 3 mm, most preferably from 2 mm to 3 mm. The distance that the spacing element extends outwardly is also referred to as the thickness of the spacing element. Using thin spacing elements is advantageous because it minimizes the gap between the two acoustic panels when they are connected together. As mentioned above, this provides a neat and aesthetically pleasing joint. In addition, thin spacing elements minimize the weight of the sound baffle, making installation easier.

[0073] Preferably, the spacing element is mechanically fixed to the first surface of the acoustic panel. In other words, the spacing element is preferably fixed to the first surface of the acoustic panel using one or more mechanical fastening elements (such as screws, bolts, etc.). Alternatively, the spacing element can be fixed to the first surface with an adhesive.

[0074] For example, the first face and the spacing element of the acoustic panel may each be provided with one or more apertures. The spacing element may be positioned on the first face so that the apertures in the spacing element are aligned with the apertures in the first face. A screw may then be inserted through each aperture in the spacing element and into the aperture in the first face, thereby fixing the spacing element to the acoustic panel. Before inserting the screw, a plug may be inserted into the aperture of the first face to provide a more secure fixation. The plug includes an external thread that forms a thread in the aperture when the plug is inserted. This forms a secure connection between the plug and the acoustic panel. The screw may then be inserted through the aperture in the spacing element and into the plug to securely fix the spacing element to the acoustic panel.

[0075] The plugs may be made of any suitable material, such as plastic (e.g., polystyrene) or metal (e.g., steel). The plastic may be glass reinforced and / or may be made of renewable materials. Suitable plugs are commercially available, such as the insulating fixed FID 90 and insulating fixed FID Green 90 from Fischer, which are made of glass reinforced polystyrene. As described below, the plugs may also be used to secure magnets, frame elements, and suspension cables to the acoustic panel. These plugs may be made of the same materials described above.

[0076] magnet

[0077] At least one magnet is secured to the secondary surface of the acoustic panel.

[0078] Each of the one or more magnets comprises a surface configured to contact a spacing element secured to an acoustic panel of another sound baffle. The surface is preferably substantially flat to provide optimal surface contact with the spacing element. The surface may have any suitable shape, but it is preferably approximately circular as this allows the position of the magnet relative to the spacing element to be easily adjusted in any direction.

[0079] More preferably, at least one magnet comprises a flat surface for contacting the second surface of the acoustic panel and another flat surface for contacting the spacing element of another acoustic baffle in use. Such a shape can minimize the gap between the two acoustic panels when they are connected together, thereby providing a neat and aesthetically pleasing joint.

[0080] In a particularly preferred aspect of the invention, at least one magnet is substantially disc-shaped.The disc-shaped magnet preferably has a diameter of 20 mm to 30 mm.

[0081] Preferably, at least one magnet extends outwardly no more than 15 mm, preferably no more than 10 mm, most preferably no more than 7 mm from the secondary surface of the acoustic panel (e.g. perpendicular to the secondary surface). This distance that the magnet extends outwardly is designated as the thickness. This upper limit on the thickness minimizes the gap between the two acoustic panels when they are connected together, thereby providing a neat and aesthetically pleasing joint. In addition, the weight of the sound baffle is minimized, making installation easier.

[0082] More preferably, at least one magnet is positioned in a recess in the secondary surface of the acoustic panel such that the magnet is substantially flush with the secondary surface. In this case, the magnet does not substantially extend outwardly from the secondary surface of the acoustic panel, thereby further reducing the gap between the two acoustic panels when the two acoustic panels are connected together.

[0083] Preferably, at least one magnet is positioned substantially centrally between the two major faces of the acoustic panel. In other words, the magnet is positioned approximately halfway along the width of the secondary face. This is advantageous because the size of the magnet can be increased, or the position of the magnet relative to the spacing element can be adjusted, without the magnet protruding beyond the major faces of the acoustic panel, which would be aesthetically undesirable.

[0084] At least one magnet may extend between the two primary faces of the acoustic panel across at least half the width of the secondary face. By increasing the area of ​​the magnet, the thickness may be reduced while still providing sufficient magnetic attraction to hold the panels together. As explained above, thinner magnets provide a more aesthetically pleasing joint between the two panels when they are connected together.

[0085] Any suitable number of magnets may be used. For example, two (or more) magnets may be spaced apart along the length of the secondary surface of the acoustic panel.

[0086] Preferably, the at least one magnet is mechanically fixed to the secondary surface of the acoustic panel. In other words, the at least one magnet is preferably fixed to the secondary surface of the acoustic panel using one or more mechanical fastening elements (eg screws, bolts etc.).

[0087] For example, a threaded rod may be attached to the surface of the magnet that contacts the secondary surface of the panel. The threaded rod is inserted into an aperture provided in the secondary surface of the panel, thereby securing the magnet to the panel. Before inserting the threaded rod, a plug may be inserted into the aperture to provide a more secure fixation.

[0088] Frame elements

[0089] The frame element may be attached to the third surface of the acoustic panel.The frame element extends along at least a portion of the length of the third surface, but preferably extends along substantially the entire length of the third surface.

[0090] As will be discussed in more detail below, the frame element may be configured to connect to an adjacent frame element of another acoustic baffle, which may help align the two baffles. Alternatively, a single frame element may extend along both panels to achieve the same effect.

[0091] One or more lights may be attached to the frame elements to provide lighting in the room in which the acoustic baffle is hung in use. The lights are preferably LED (light emitting diode) lights.

[0092] The LED lamp may be a conventional LED or other solid-state light source, including a high brightness LED (HBLED), an organic LED (OLED), an electroluminescent element (EL), a direct lighting LED, and an indirect lighting LED.

[0093] The LED lamp may be a low profile LED. The term "low profile" means that the LED lamp has an overall thickness measured from the front surface (ie, light emitting surface) to the rear surface of less than 3 inches, preferably less than 2 inches, more preferably less than 1 inch.

[0094] The light and heat generated by the LED lamp can be emitted through the same (ie, shared) surface. The shared light and heat emitting surface eliminates the need for additional heat sinks, thereby reducing the weight of the LED lamp and the sound baffle as a whole.

[0095] The frame element may be made of any suitable material, but is preferably made of metal. This is advantageous because it provides the frame element with sufficient rigidity and strength to support a lamp attached thereto.

[0096] In a particularly preferred aspect of the invention, the frame element is of substantially U-shaped profile. In other words, the frame element has a substantially U-shaped cross-section. This is advantageous because the U-shape provides increased rigidity to the frame element while keeping the weight of the frame element low.

[0097] The substantially U-shaped profile comprises a base portion (i.e. the bottom of the "U" shape) and two side portions. Preferably, the substantially U-shaped profile is attached to the acoustic panel by attaching the base portion to the third surface of the acoustic panel such that the side portions extend away from the acoustic panel. One or more lights may be attached to the interior of the substantially U-shaped profile.

[0098] The substantially U-shaped profile may be attached to the acoustic panel by any suitable means. For example, one or more apertures may be provided in the base portion of the substantially U-shaped profile. Bolts may be inserted through each aperture in the base portion and into the aperture in the third face of the acoustic panel, thereby securing the substantially U-shaped profile to the acoustic panel. Prior to inserting the bolts, plugs may be inserted into the apertures in the acoustic panel to provide a more secure fixation. Alternatively or additionally, a rod may extend through the acoustic panel and the base portion of the substantially U-shaped profile. The end of the rod may be threaded, thereby allowing a nut to be attached. This secures the substantially U-shaped profile and the acoustic panel together.

[0099] Suspension Cables

[0100] One or more suspension cables may be attached to the acoustic panel so that, in use, the acoustic baffle may be suspended from a ceiling.Any suitable suspension cable known to those skilled in the art may be used.

[0101] As will be discussed in more detail below, the baffle is preferably suspended so that the major face of the acoustic panel extends downwardly. In this case, one or more suspension cables are attached to a secondary face, preferably a fourth secondary face, of the acoustic panel. However, it may be desirable to suspend the baffle so that the major face of the acoustic panel extends generally horizontally. In this case, one or more suspension cables may be attached to the major face of the acoustic panel.

[0102] The suspension cable can be attached to the acoustic panel in any suitable manner. For example, the suspension cable can be attached to an adapter comprising a threaded rod. The threaded rod can be inserted into an aperture in the acoustic panel to secure the suspension cable to the panel. Before inserting the threaded rod, a plug can be inserted into the aperture to provide a more secure fixation. In another example, the suspension cable is attached to a plate secured to the acoustic panel, such as by one or more screws.

[0103] Sound Baffle System

[0104] In use, the baffles are suspended from the ceiling and connected together to form a "baffle system".

[0105] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, any of the features of the acoustic panels, spacing elements, magnets, frame elements and suspension cables described above may be applied to the acoustic baffle system of the present invention.

[0106] In one aspect of the invention, the acoustic baffle system comprises a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel. A spacing element is fixed to the secondary face of the first acoustic panel, and at least one magnet is fixed to the secondary face of the second acoustic panel. The surface of the at least one magnet contacts the surface of the spacing element so that the two panels are connected together. Preferably, substantially the entire surface of the at least one magnet contacts the surface of the spacing element.

[0107] The magnets should be strong enough to hold the two acoustic panels together. However, the magnets are preferably not so strong that it is difficult to slide the magnets along the surface of the spacing element to accurately align the panels. In addition, it may be desirable to be able to easily disconnect the two acoustic panels by hand without the use of tools, for example to provide access to a lamp fixed to the frame element for maintenance or replacement. Once maintenance is completed, the acoustic panels can be connected back together and accurately realigned.

[0108] In view of the above, the traction force of the magnet is preferably 50N to 300N, more preferably 250N to 300N. The traction force is defined as the load at which the magnet and the 10mm thick ST.37 steel plate release each other under direct tension. In other words, the traction force is the force required to separate the magnet and the steel plate.

[0109] The pulling force can be measured by any suitable device capable of measuring the tension required to separate the magnet from the steel plate. The force applied should be perpendicular to the steel plate. The steel plate should be cleaned and ground flat to avoid any air gap between the plate and the magnet. Any elements connected to the magnet should not be magnetic as these will interfere with the measurement.

[0110] The acoustic panels are each suspended from the ceiling in any desired orientation. However, the acoustic panels are preferably suspended substantially vertically. In other words, a substantially vertical axis extends through the acoustic panel, wherein the two main faces of the panel are located on either side of said axis. Thus, the two main faces of the acoustic panel extend downwards, i.e. in a generally downward direction towards the floor. Preferably, the two main faces extend substantially vertically.

[0111] When the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel are suspended substantially vertically, they are preferably positioned side by side. In this case, the spacing element is fixed to the secondary face of one side of the first acoustic panel, and at least one magnet is fixed to the secondary face of one side of the second acoustic panel, so that the spacing element and the at least one magnet are in contact. However, the acoustic panels may be suspended in any arrangement. For example, the first acoustic panel may be suspended above the second acoustic panel. In this case, the spacing element is fixed to the lower secondary face of the first acoustic panel, and at least one magnet is fixed to the upper secondary face of the second acoustic panel.

[0112] Alternatively, the acoustic panels may each be suspended substantially horizontally. In other words, a substantially horizontal axis extends through the acoustic panel, wherein the two main faces of the panel are located on either side of said axis. Thus, the two main faces of the acoustic panel extend substantially horizontally. In practice, the main faces will then typically be substantially parallel to the ceiling.

[0113] When the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel are suspended horizontally, they are preferably positioned side by side. In this case, the spacing element is fixed to the secondary face of one side of the first acoustic panel, and at least one magnet is fixed to the secondary face of one side of the second acoustic panel, so that the spacing element and the at least one magnet are in contact.

[0114] At least the portion of the ceiling from which the acoustic panel is suspended may extend at an acute angle relative to the floor, and said portion may even extend all the way to the floor.However, the acoustic panel is preferably suspended from a substantially horizontal ceiling.

[0115] The acoustic panel may be suspended from the ceiling in any suitable manner. For example, the acoustic panel may be attached to a grid of a suspended ceiling. However, as discussed above, the acoustic panel is typically suspended from the ceiling using one or more suspension elements, such as suspension cables.

[0116] For example, when the acoustic panels are suspended vertically, one or more suspension cables may be attached to the upper face of each acoustic panel.One or more suspension cables may be attached substantially centrally between the sides of each acoustic panel.

[0117] Typically, in the prior art, when the acoustic panels of the prior art are suspended substantially vertically from the ceiling, two suspension cables are attached to the upper face of each panel, one suspension cable near each side of the panel. However, when the acoustic panels of the present invention are connected together side by side, only one suspension cable may be required to support each panel. This is because the magnetic connection system of the present invention allows for precise and consistent positioning of the baffles without the need for more than one suspension cable per baffle. This reduces the material required to manufacture the acoustic baffle system, thereby reducing the associated costs. Preferably, the suspension cable is attached approximately centrally between the sides of each panel so that the panels are substantially horizontal.

[0118] However, it may not be necessary to attach suspension cables to each acoustic panel. For example, if a first acoustic panel is positioned above a second acoustic panel, the suspension cables may be attached only to the first acoustic panel. In this case, the second acoustic panel is suspended by means of magnetic attraction between a spacing element fixed to the first acoustic panel and at least one magnet fixed to the second acoustic panel.

[0119] When the acoustic panels are suspended horizontally, one or more suspension cables may be attached to a major face of each acoustic panel.

[0120] In another example, at least one of the acoustic panels may be provided with a support element. The support element may extend through the acoustic panel between the upper and lower sub-faces of the acoustic panel. The upper end of the support element may be attached to a suspension element (such as a suspension cable), and the lower end of the support element may be attached to a frame element on the lower sub-face of the acoustic panel. The suspension element may then be used to suspend the acoustic panel from a ceiling.

[0121] The support elements and suspension elements support the weight of the acoustic panel from below via the frame elements. Thus, the load path bypasses the material of the acoustic panel, which increases the overall stability of the suspended acoustic baffle system and allows the use of larger, heavier acoustic panels. In addition, the frame elements provide attachment points for additional elements to be connected (e.g., one or more lights). The weight of these additional elements is primarily supported by the suspension elements and support elements, rather than by the acoustic panel itself, which avoids compromising the stability and safety of the included acoustic baffle system.

[0122] The use of support elements extending through the acoustic panel is particularly advantageous when the acoustic panel is an MMVF panel. MMVF provides good sound absorption properties to the acoustic panel and is very stable chemically and thermally. However, the mechanical integrity of the MMVF depends largely on the binder type and content. The support elements reduce the load on the acoustic panel and therefore the MMVF does not need to have a high level of mechanical integrity. This avoids the need to use a high binder content in the MMVF.

[0123] Any suitable support element may be used which can connect the suspension element to the frame element and help support the acoustic panel. For example, the support element may be a suspension cable, rod or tube.

[0124] Any suitable frame element may be used to support the acoustic panel from below. For example, the frame element may simply be a gasket, bracket or plate.

[0125] Instead of using support elements, suspension elements may extend through the upper secondary face of the acoustic panel to the lower secondary face of the acoustic panel, wherein the suspension elements are attached to frame elements on the lower secondary face of the acoustic panel. This achieves the same effect of connecting the suspension elements to the frame elements and thereby supporting the acoustic panel from below.

[0126] Any suitable number of suspension elements may be used to suspend each acoustic panel from the ceiling. However, as discussed above, only a single suspension element may be required to support each acoustic panel. Preferably, the suspension element is positioned substantially centrally between the sides of each panel.

[0127] As mentioned above, for example for aesthetic reasons, it is preferred that the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel are suspended and connected together such that they are "aligned". For example, this may mean that the first major face of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the first major face of the second acoustic panel. Furthermore, the second major face of the first acoustic panel may be aligned with the second major face of the second acoustic panel. When the major faces are substantially planar, the major faces are aligned when they lie in substantially the same plane.

[0128] When the acoustic panels are suspended vertically side by side, it may be preferred that the upper minor face of a first acoustic panel is aligned with the upper minor face of a second acoustic panel. Similarly, the lower minor face of the first acoustic panel may be aligned with the lower minor face of the second acoustic panel. When the minor faces are substantially planar, the minor faces are aligned when they lie in substantially the same plane.

[0129] The frame element may be attached to the minor face of at least one of the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel. The frame element extends along at least a portion of the minor face of the panel. Preferably, the frame element is attached to both the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel.

[0130] One or more lights may be attached to the frame elements of one or both panels to provide lighting in the room in which the acoustic panels are hung.

[0131] In a particularly preferred aspect of the invention, a secondary face of the first acoustic panel and an adjacent secondary face of the second acoustic panel both have a frame element attached thereto. For example, a single frame element may extend along both panels. However, more preferably, the first frame element is attached to the first acoustic panel and the second frame element is attached to the second acoustic panel. The first frame element and the second frame element may be connected together.

[0132] The frame elements may help keep the two acoustic panels substantially "aligned" by using a single frame element extending along both panels, or by connecting the frame elements of the panels together, as discussed above.

[0133] It is preferred that each acoustic panel is provided with a separate frame element rather than providing a frame element extending along a plurality of panels. This is because the frame elements can be made shorter and therefore they are easier to handle and install.

[0134] When the acoustic panels are hung vertically side by side, the secondary face of the acoustic panel to which the frame element is attached is preferably the secondary face. This is advantageous because any lights attached to the frame element can be positioned so that the light is directed downwards into the room. Furthermore, this allows a single frame element to be provided along both panels, or allows the frame elements attached to each panel to be connected together, which can assist in aligning the panels as discussed above.

[0135] The acoustic baffle system may include an electrical cable, for example to power one or more lights attached to the frame element. Thus, at least one of the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel may be provided with a tube for accommodating the electrical cable, wherein the tube extends through at least a portion of the acoustic panel. Alternatively, an aperture may simply extend through at least a portion of the acoustic panel, through which the electrical cable may be inserted.

[0136] As discussed above, the acoustic panel is preferably suspended substantially vertically, and the frame element is preferably attached to the lower face of the panel. It is therefore preferred that a tube for accommodating electrical cables extends from the upper lower face of the acoustic panel, through the panel to the lower face to which the frame element is attached. This allows electrical cables to extend from the ceiling, through the tube in the acoustic panel, and connect to one or more lights attached to the frame element. Preferably, the tube extends substantially vertically.

[0137] The acoustic panel used in the acoustic baffle system is preferably of the same form as the acoustic panel used in the acoustic baffle of the present invention. For example, the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel may each include a first surface and a second surface. The first surface is preferably opposite to the second surface. The spacer element is fixed to the first surface of the first acoustic panel, and at least one magnet is fixed to the second surface of the second acoustic panel, so that the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel can be connected together.

[0138] At least one magnet may be secured to the second secondary surface of the first acoustic panel to enable the first acoustic panel to be connected to another acoustic panel. Similarly, a spacing element may be secured to the first secondary surface of the second acoustic panel to enable the second acoustic panel to be secured to another acoustic panel.

[0139] The first and second acoustic panels may each include a third surface, preferably extending between opposing first and second surfaces.As discussed above, a frame element may be attached to the third surface of at least one of the first and second acoustic panels.

[0140] The first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel may each include a fourth secondary surface extending between the opposing first and second secondary surfaces, wherein the fourth secondary surface is opposite to the third secondary surface. As discussed above, one or more suspension cables may be attached to the fourth secondary surface of each acoustic panel to suspend the panel from a ceiling.

[0141] Therefore, the acoustic panel is preferably hung so that the first and second secondary faces are on the sides of the panel, the third secondary face is the lower secondary face, and the fourth secondary face is the upper secondary face.

[0142] In another aspect of the present invention, the sound baffle system includes: an acoustic panel, which includes two opposite main surfaces and a plurality of secondary surfaces extending between the two main surfaces, wherein the acoustic panel is suspended from a ceiling by a suspension element; and a supporting element, which extends through the acoustic panel between an upper secondary surface and a lower secondary surface of the acoustic panel, wherein an upper end of the supporting element is attached to the suspension element, and a lower end of the supporting element is attached to a frame element on the lower secondary surface of the acoustic panel.

[0143] In another aspect of the present invention, the sound baffle system includes: an acoustic panel, which includes two opposite major surfaces and a plurality of minor surfaces extending between the two major surfaces, wherein the acoustic panel is suspended from a ceiling by a suspension element, wherein the suspension element extends through an upper minor surface of the acoustic panel to a lower minor surface of the acoustic panel, and wherein the suspension element is attached to a frame element on the lower minor surface of the acoustic panel.

[0144] As discussed above, connecting the suspension elements to the frame elements (either directly or via support elements) supports the acoustic panel from below and increases the stability and safety of the acoustic baffle system.

[0145] Acoustic baffle systems in which the acoustic panel is supported from below via frame elements may be used in combination with any of the other features described above.

[0146] How to install a sound baffle system

[0147] The present invention also provides a method for installing a sound baffle system, the method comprising:

[0148] (i) providing a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposing major faces and one or more minor faces extending between the two major faces;

[0149] (ii) securing a spacing element to the secondary face of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material;

[0150] (iii) securing at least one magnet to the secondary surface of the second acoustic panel;

[0151] (iv) suspending the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel from a ceiling; and

[0152] (v) contacting a surface of at least one magnet with a surface of a spacing element to connect the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel together.

[0153] As will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, any of the features of the acoustic panels, spacing elements, magnets, frame elements and suspension cables described above may be applied to the method of the present invention.

[0154] Steps (ii) to (v) may be performed in any suitable order. For example, the spacing elements and at least one magnet may be secured to the acoustic panel after the acoustic panel has been suspended from the ceiling. However, it is easier to secure the spacing elements and at least one magnet to the acoustic panel before the panel is suspended from the ceiling. Therefore, preferably, steps (ii) and (iii) are performed before step (iv).

[0155] As discussed above, the acoustic panels may be suspended in any desired orientation and arrangement. However, the acoustic panels are preferably suspended substantially vertically, with the two major faces of each panel extending downwardly. Furthermore, the panels are preferably positioned side by side, and thus the spacing element is fixed to the minor face of one side of the first acoustic panel, and at least one magnet is fixed to the minor face of one side of the second acoustic panel.

[0156] After the first and second acoustic panels are connected together, the position of the at least one magnet relative to the spacing element may be adjusted to align the two panels.

[0157] For example, when the acoustic panels are hung vertically side by side, the method of the present invention may include:

[0158] (vi) adjusting the position of at least one magnet relative to the spacing element so that the upper surface of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the upper surface of the second acoustic panel and / or so that the lower surface of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the lower surface of the second acoustic panel.

[0159] The method may further include:

[0160] (vii) adjusting the position of at least one magnet relative to the spacing element so that the major surface of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the major surface of the second acoustic panel.

[0161] Adjusting the position of the at least one magnet relative to the spacing element may include sliding the magnet along a surface of the spacing element.

[0162] The method may further include:

[0163] (viii) attaching a frame element to a minor face of at least one of the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel, wherein the frame element extends along at least a portion of the minor face.

[0164] Step (viii) may also include attaching one or more lights to the frame elements so that the acoustic baffle system provides lighting in a room in which the acoustic baffle system is installed.

[0165] As explained above, it is preferred that the frame element is attached to both acoustic panels. For example, step (viii) may comprise attaching a single frame element such that the single frame element extends along both panels. More preferably, step (viii) comprises attaching a first frame element to a first acoustic panel and attaching a second frame element to a second acoustic panel. Step (viii) may also comprise connecting the first frame element and the second frame element together.

[0166] Alternatively, when the frame elements are provided in step (i), the frame elements may be pre-attached to the acoustic panels. For example, step (i) may comprise providing the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel with a first frame element attached to the secondary face of the first acoustic panel and a second frame element attached to the secondary face of the second acoustic panel. In this case, step (viii) may comprise simply connecting the first frame element and the second frame element together.

[0167] As explained above, when the acoustic panels are hung vertically side by side, the frame elements are preferably attached to the lower face of each acoustic panel.

[0168] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, steps (vi), (vii) and (vii) may be performed at any suitable time during the methods of the invention.

[0169] In a particularly preferred method of the invention, step (viii) is performed before step (iv). This is advantageous because it is easier to attach the frame elements and lights before the acoustic panels are hung from the ceiling. Furthermore, attaching the frame elements first may mean that the panels are already substantially aligned before they are hung from the ceiling, particularly where a single frame element extends across more than one acoustic panel. Therefore, once the panels are hung, only minor adjustments may be required in order to perfectly align the panels as required. Therefore, step (vi) and / or step (vii) are preferably performed after step (iv).

[0170] Kit for installing acoustic baffle systems

[0171] The present invention may be provided in the form of a kit for installing an acoustic baffle system.

[0172] The kit of the present invention comprises:

[0173] (i) a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposing major faces and one or more minor faces extending between the two major faces;

[0174] (ii) a spacing element configured to be attached to the secondary face of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material;

[0175] (iii) at least one magnet, the at least one magnet configured to be attached to the secondary face of the second acoustic panel; and

[0176] (iv) One or more suspension elements, one or more suspension elements are used to suspend the acoustic panel from the ceiling.

[0177] The suspension element may be any element that can be used to suspend the acoustic panel from a ceiling. Preferably, the suspension element is a suspension cable. However, the suspension element may alternatively be a rigid rod or clip that can be used to attach the acoustic panel to a suspended ceiling grid.

[0178] As will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art, any of the features of the acoustic panels, spacing elements, magnets, frame elements and suspension cables described above may be applied to the kit of the present invention.

[0179] The kit may also include instructions for installing the acoustic baffle system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0180] Figure 1a and Figure 1b An exploded view of an example of a sound baffle according to the present invention is depicted.

[0181] Figure 1c yes Figure 1a Magnified view of the spacing element depicted in .

[0182] Figure 1d yes Figure 1b An enlarged view of one of the magnets depicted in FIG.

[0183] Figure 1e Depicted Figure 1a The sound baffle shown in , with hanging cables attached.

[0184] Figure 1f yes Figure 1e An enlarged view of the suspension cables depicted in FIG.

[0185] Figure 2a Depicted is an exploded view showing the components of an example of an acoustic baffle system according to the present invention before acoustic panels have been hung and connected together.

[0186] Figure 2b Depicted Figure 2a The acoustic baffle system shown in FIG. 1 after the acoustic panels have been connected together.

[0187] Figure 2c Depicted Figure 2b The acoustic baffle system shown in , but with a frame element attached to each acoustic panel.

[0188] Figure 2d and 2e Depicted Figure 2c A joint of acoustic panels before the acoustic panels are connected together is shown in FIG.

[0189] Figure 2f and Figure 2g Depicted Figure 2c Exploded view of the acoustic panel shown in .

[0190] Figure 2h Depicted Figure 2c Side view of the first acoustic panel shown in . DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0191] Figure 1a and Figure 1b An exploded view of an example of the sound baffle 100 of the present invention is depicted. Figure 1a and Figure 1b Different side views of the same sound baffle 100 are shown.

[0192] The sound baffle 100 includes an acoustic panel 101 , a spacing element 102 and a magnet 103 .

[0193] Any suitable acoustic panel 101 may be used, but Figure 1a and Figure 1b The acoustic panel 101 depicted in FIG. 1 includes two opposite major faces 104, a first major face 105, a second minor face 106, a third minor face 107, and a fourth minor face 108. The first major face 105 is opposite to the second minor face 106, and the third minor face 107 extends between the opposite first major face 105 and the second minor face 106. Similarly, the fourth minor face 108 extends between the opposite first major face 105 and the second minor face 106, and is opposite to the third minor face 107. The two major faces 104 and the minor faces 105, 106, 107, 108 are all substantially planar. In addition, the two major faces 104 are substantially rectangular, and the minor faces 105, 106, 107, 108 extend substantially perpendicular to the two major faces 104.

[0194] like Figure 1a As depicted in , the spacing element 102 is fixed to the first surface 105 of the acoustic panel 101. Figure 1bAs depicted in FIG. 1 , the magnet 103 is fixed to the secondary surface 106 of the acoustic panel 101. The spacing element 102 comprises a ferromagnetic material, i.e., a material that is attracted to the magnet 103. Thus, the magnet 103 of one acoustic baffle 100 may be brought into contact with the spacing element 102 of another acoustic baffle 100. Figure 1a and Figure 1b The acoustic baffle 100 depicted in FIG. 1 is connected to another such acoustic baffle 100. The magnetic attraction between the magnet 103 and the spacing element 102 holds the acoustic baffles 100 together. For example, in Figure 2b Connecting two acoustic panels in this way is shown in .

[0195] Any suitable ferromagnetic material may be used. For example, the spacer element 102 may be made of galvanized steel. However, the spacer element 102 may be made primarily of plastic, for example, as long as it includes enough ferromagnetic material (e.g., galvanized steel) so that the magnetic attraction force is strong enough to hold the sound baffle 100 together.

[0196] As mentioned above, Figure 1a and Figure 1b The first surface 105 of the acoustic panel 101 is opposite to the second surface 106. Therefore, a plurality of sound baffles 100 can be connected together in a row. However, the first surface 105 and the second surface 106 can be positioned at any position on the acoustic panel 101 to achieve any desired arrangement of the sound baffles 100.

[0197] Any suitable spacing element 102 may be used, but Figure 1a The spacing element 102 depicted in FIG. 1 is formed of a substantially flat plate. Figure 1c An enlarged view of the spacing element 102 is shown in . The spacing element 102 is provided with two apertures 109, and the first surface 105 of the acoustic panel 101 is also provided with two apertures 110. Therefore, a screw 111 can be inserted through each aperture 109 in the spacing element 102 and inserted into the aperture 110 in the first surface 105 of the acoustic panel 101, thereby fixing the spacing element 102 to the acoustic panel 101. Before inserting the screw 111, a plug 112 (for example made of plastic) can be inserted into the aperture 110 in the acoustic panel 101 to provide a more secure fixation. The plug 112 includes an external thread, which forms a thread in the aperture 110 when the plug 112 is inserted. This forms a secure connection between the plug 112 and the acoustic panel 101. The screw 111 can then be screwed into the plug 112 to fix the spacing element 102 to the acoustic panel 101.

[0198] like Figure 1a and Figure 1cAs shown in , the spacing element 102 has a first substantially flat surface 113 that contacts the first face 105 of the acoustic panel 101 and a second substantially flat surface 114 that will contact the magnet 103 of the other sound baffle 100 during installation. By forming the spacing element 102 from a substantially flat plate, the "thickness" of the spacing element 102 can be minimized. This reduces the gap between the two acoustic panels 101 when the two acoustic panels 101 are connected together, thereby providing a neat and aesthetically pleasing joint.

[0199] because Figure 1a The first sub-face 105 of the acoustic panel 101 in is substantially rectangular, so it is advantageous that the spacing element 102 is also substantially rectangular, such as Figure 1a and Figure 1c This allows the spacing element 102 to cover substantially the entire first surface 105 of the acoustic panel 101. Therefore, there are more locations on the spacing element 102 that can contact the magnets 103 of another sound baffle 100, which makes it easier to connect two sound baffles 100 so that they are aligned.

[0200] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, more than one spacing element 102 may be secured to the first sub-surface 105 of the acoustic panel 101. For example, Figure 1a and Figure 1b The acoustic baffle 100 depicted in the drawings comprises two magnets 103 fixed to a secondary surface 106. Thus, the primary surface 105 of the acoustic panel 101 may be fixed with two separate spacing elements 102, wherein one spacing element 102 is positioned opposite each magnet 103. When two acoustic baffles 100 are connected together, one magnet 103 will therefore be in contact with one of the spacing elements 102 and the other magnet 103 will be in contact with the other spacing element 102. By using two smaller spacing elements 102 (compared to one larger spacing element 102), the material required to produce the spacing elements 102 may be reduced, thereby reducing the associated costs.

[0201] Any suitable magnet 103 may be used, but Figure 1b The magnet 103 depicted in is substantially disk-shaped. Figure 1d 1. An enlarged view of one of the magnets 103 is depicted in FIG. The magnet 103 has a first substantially flat surface 115 from which a threaded rod 116 protrudes (the threads are Figure 1d 1). The threaded rod 116 may be inserted into an aperture 117 provided in the secondary surface 106 of the acoustic panel 101, thereby securing the magnet 103 to the acoustic panel 101. Prior to inserting the threaded rod 116 of the magnet 103, a plug 112 may be inserted into the aperture 117 to provide a more secure fixation.

[0202] The magnet 103 also includes a second substantially flat surface 118 that will contact the spacing element 102 of another acoustic baffle 100 during installation. Again, the use of the substantially flat magnet 103 minimizes the gap between the two acoustic panels 101 when the two acoustic baffles 101 are connected together, providing a neat and aesthetically pleasing joint.

[0203] like Figure 1b As shown in , a recess may be provided around each aperture 117 in the secondary surface 106 of the acoustic panel 101. This allows the magnet 103 to be positioned inside the recess and so that the surface 118 of the magnet is substantially flush with the secondary surface 106 of the acoustic panel 101. This further minimizes the gap between the two acoustic panels 101 when they are connected together. Figure 1b In the embodiment of the present invention, the recess around the aperture 117 is substantially circular to accommodate a disc-shaped magnet. However, the recess may have any suitable shape to accommodate a magnet 103 having any shape.

[0204] exist Figure 1b , two magnets 103 are spaced apart along the length of the secondary surface 106 of the acoustic panel 101, but any suitable number of magnets 103 may be used. For example, when the acoustic baffle 100 is heavy (e.g., if heavy frame elements and lights are attached to the acoustic panel 101), it may be necessary to use more than two magnets 103 in order to hold the acoustic baffle 100 together in alignment. Similarly, in some embodiments, only one magnet 103 may be required. For example, if a frame element is attached to the bottom of the acoustic panel 101, as will be discussed in more detail below, this can force the acoustic baffle 100 to be substantially aligned. Thus, only a single magnet 103 may be required to precisely align the baffle 100.

[0205] During installation, the acoustic baffle 100 is suspended from a ceiling (not shown), for example, by Figure 1e 101 is suspended from the ceiling by one or more suspension cables 119 depicted in FIG. In this example, the suspension cables 119 are attached to the fourth secondary face 108 of the acoustic panel 101. When the suspension cables 119 are attached to the ceiling, the acoustic panel 101 is thus suspended substantially vertically. As a result, the two main faces 104 of the acoustic panel 101 extend substantially vertically. Thus, the fourth secondary face 108 is the upper secondary face, the third secondary face 107 is the lower secondary face, and the first secondary face 105 and the second secondary face 106 are on the side of the acoustic panel 101.

[0206] Figure 1f1 is an enlarged exploded view showing the components of the suspension cable 119. The suspension cable 119 includes a rope 120 made of, for example, steel. One end of the rope 120 is attached to a threaded rod 122 (the threads are not Figure 1d 101). A threaded rod 122 may be inserted into an aperture 123 in the fourth face 108 of the acoustic panel 101 to secure the suspension cable 119 to the acoustic panel 101. Prior to inserting the threaded rod 122, a plug 112 may be inserted into the aperture 123 to provide a more secure fixation. A gasket 124 may be provided around the aperture 123 to protect the surface of the acoustic panel 101. The other end of the cord 120 is attached to a tie rod eyelet 125, which may be attached to a ceiling.

[0207] Although the figures show the sound baffle 100 suspended using suspension cables 119, other means for suspending the sound baffle 100 from a ceiling may be used. For example, the sound baffle 100 may be attached to a grid of a suspended ceiling.

[0208] Figure 2a Depicted is an exploded view showing the components of an example of the acoustic baffle system 200 of the present invention before the acoustic panels 201a, 201b are hung from a ceiling and connected together.

[0209] The acoustic baffle system 200 includes a first acoustic panel 201a and a second acoustic panel 201b. Figure 2a In the embodiment, the acoustic panels 201a, 201b and Figure 1a and Figure 1b The acoustic panels 101 depicted in FIG. 20 are substantially the same. A first sub-surface 205a of the first acoustic panel 201a is fixed with a spacing element 202, and a second sub-surface 206b of the second acoustic panel 201b is fixed with a magnet 203 to allow the acoustic panels 201a, 201b to be connected together. It is not necessary to fix one or more magnets 203 to the first acoustic panel 201a or to fix the spacing element to the second acoustic panel 201b, but this may be desired in order to connect additional acoustic panels.

[0210] Figure 2b Shows Figure 2a The acoustic baffle system 200 is shown in FIG. 2 after the acoustic panels 201a, 201b have been hung and connected together. Figure 2b In the example depicted in , the acoustic panels are hung substantially vertically and placed side by side.

[0211] exist Figure 2a and Figure 2bThe various steps in the method for installing a sound baffle system of the present invention are also marked. Step (i) includes providing a first acoustic panel 201a and a second acoustic panel 201b. Step (ii) includes fixing a spacing element 202 to a first surface 205a of the first acoustic panel 201a. Step (iii) includes fixing a magnet 203 to a second surface 206b of the second acoustic panel 201b. Step (iv) includes hanging the acoustic panels 201a, 201b from a ceiling (not shown). Step (v) includes contacting the magnet 203 with the spacing element 202 to connect the two acoustic panels 201a, 201b together. As discussed above, these steps can be performed in any suitable order.

[0212] For aesthetic reasons, the acoustic panels 201a, 201b are preferably connected together so that they are substantially "aligned", such as Figure 2b . In other words, the corresponding primary faces 204a, 204b of the acoustic panels 201a, 201b are located in substantially the same plane. In addition, the fourth secondary face 208a (upper secondary face) of the first acoustic panel 201a and the fourth secondary face 208b (upper secondary face) of the second acoustic panel 201b are located in substantially the same plane. Similarly, the third secondary face 207a (lower secondary face) of the first acoustic panel 201a and the third secondary face 207b (lower secondary face) of the second acoustic panel 201b are located in substantially the same plane.

[0213] When the acoustic panels 201a, 201b are first connected together, they may not Figure 2b However, the present invention allows the relative positions of the acoustic panels 201a, 201b to be easily adjusted to ensure that they are precisely aligned. For example, the magnets 203 can be slid along the surface of the spacer element 202 while the surfaces of the magnets 203 and the spacer element 202 are in contact with each other, thereby adjusting the relative positions of the acoustic panels 201a, 201b.

[0214] More specifically, when the acoustic panels 201a, 201b are first connected together, the corresponding major faces 204 of the panels 201a, 201b may not be precisely aligned. In this case, the magnets 203 may each need to be moved left or right relative to the spacing element 202 in order to align the major faces 204a of the panels 201a, 201b. Similarly, when the acoustic panels 201a, 201b are first connected together, the top and bottom of the acoustic panels 201a, 201b may not be precisely aligned (especially if the frame elements 226a, 226b are not attached to the panels, as discussed below). In this case, the magnets 203 may need to be moved up or down relative to the spacing element 202 in order to align the top and bottom of the acoustic panels 201a, 201b. Adjusting the position of the magnet 203 relative to the spacing element 202 in order to align the panels 201a, 201b is step (vi) and step (vii) in the method of the present invention.

[0215] The advantages of the present invention are that Figure 2a and Figure 2b As shown in , only a single suspension cable 219a, 219b may be needed to support each acoustic panel 201a, 20ab. This is because the magnetic connection system allows accurate and consistent positioning of the acoustic panels 201a, 201b without requiring each acoustic panel 201a, 201b to have more than one suspension cable 219a, 219b. The single suspension cable 219a, 219b is preferably attached roughly centrally between the sides of each acoustic panel 201a, 201b so that the panels 201a, 201b are suspended substantially horizontally. In other words, the suspension cables 219a, 219b are attached along approximately half of the length of the fourth secondary face 208a, 208b of each acoustic panel 201a, 201b.

[0216] The frame elements 226a, 226b may be attached to at least one of the acoustic panels 201a, 201b, such as Figure 2c . In this example, the first frame element 226a is attached to the third surface 207a (lower surface) of the first acoustic panel 201a, and the second frame element 226b is attached to the third surface 207b (lower surface) of the second acoustic panel 201b. Each frame element 226a, 226b extends along at least a portion of the third surface 207a, 207b of the acoustic panel 201a, 201b to which it is attached. However, it is preferred that each frame element 226a, 226b extends along substantially the entire length of the third surface 207a, 207b of the acoustic panel 201a, 201b to which it is attached, as shown in FIG. Figure 2cAttaching the frame elements 226a, 226b is step (viii) in the method of the present invention. Alternatively, the frame elements 226a, 226b may be pre-attached to the acoustic panels 201a, 201b when the acoustic panels 201a, 201b are provided.

[0217] The first frame element 226a may be connected to the second frame element 226b. This may force the acoustic panels 201a, 201b to be substantially aligned. Thus, only minor adjustments may be required to the position of the magnet 203 relative to the spacing element 202 in order to precisely align the acoustic panels 201a, 201b. Alternatively, a single frame element 226 may be provided on both acoustic panels 201a, 201b to achieve the same effect.

[0218] The frame elements 226a, 226b may be connected together in any suitable manner. For example, the spacer element 202 may extend below the third surface 207a (lower surface) of the first acoustic panel 201a, such as Figure 2d When the first acoustic panel 201a and the second acoustic panel 201b are connected together, the spacing element 202 is thus sandwiched between the frame elements 226a, 226b. Figure 2e It is shown in Figure 2e is a close-up of the joint between the frame elements 226a, 226b.If the frame elements 226a, 226b were made of a ferromagnetic material, they would be attracted to the spacing element 202 and thereby connected together.

[0219] In the acoustic baffle system 200 depicted in the figures, the frame elements 226a, 226b are substantially U-shaped in profile. This is advantageous because it provides the frame elements 226a, 226b with greater rigidity and strength.

[0220] Figure 2f and Figure 2g Shows Figure 2c An exploded view of the first acoustic panel 201a and the second acoustic panel 201b is depicted in FIG. For simplicity, the suspension cables 219a, 219b have been omitted.

[0221] If you can Figure 2f and Figure 2g As seen in Fig. 1, the substantially U-shaped profile 226a, 226b comprises a base portion 227a, 227b (i.e. the bottom of the U-shape) and a side portion 228a, 228b. The base portion 227a, 227b is attached to the third surface 207a, 207b of the acoustic panel 201a, 201b such that the side portion 228a, 228b extends away from the acoustic panel 201a, 201b.

[0222] Apertures 229a, 229b are provided in the base portions 227a, 227b of the substantially U-shaped profiles 226a, 226b. Bolts 230a, 230b can be inserted through the apertures 229a, 229b in the base portions 227a, 227b and inserted into the apertures (not shown) in the third tertiary surfaces 207a, 207b (lower surfaces) of the acoustic panels 201a, 210b. Plugs 212 can be inserted into the apertures before the bolts 230a, 230b are inserted to provide a more secure fixation. In addition, threaded rods 231a, 231b are provided that pass through the base portions 227a, 227b of the substantially U-shaped profiles 226a, 226b and the acoustic panels 201a, 201b. Nuts 232a, 232b are provided at the ends of the threaded rods 231a, 231b. The substantially U-shaped profiles 226a, 226b are thereby fixed to the acoustic panels 201a, 201b.

[0223] At least one of the frame elements 226a, 226b may have one or more lights 233a, 233b attached to provide lighting in a room in which the acoustic baffle system 200 is installed. Figure 2h Shows Figure 2c and Figure 2f . A side view of the first acoustic panel 201a depicted in FIG. 2 can be seen having an LED light 233a attached to the underside of the first substantially U-shaped profile 226a. The light 233a is positioned so that light will be directed downwardly into the room in which the acoustic baffle system 200 is installed. A series of lights 233a may be arranged spaced apart along the length of the first substantially U-shaped profile 226a. Although not visible in the figure, one or more lights 233b may be attached in the same manner to a second substantially U-shaped profile 226b, which is attached to the second acoustic panel 201b.

[0224] The acoustic baffle system 200 may need to include electrical cables, for example to power lights 233a, 233b attached to the frame elements 226a, 226b.Therefore, at least one of the acoustic panels 201a, 201b may be provided with a tube 234 for accommodating electrical cables.

[0225] exist Figure 2g In the embodiment, the tube 234b extends substantially vertically from the fourth secondary face 208b (upper secondary face) of the second acoustic panel 201b to the second substantially U-shaped profile 226b. Therefore, a cable can be inserted through the tube 234b and connected to the lamp 233b attached to the second substantially U-shaped profile 226b.

[0226] exist Figure 2f and Figure 2gIn the embodiment of the present invention, the suspension cables 219a, 219b (not shown) can be attached to the upper end of each threaded rod 231a, 231b extending through the acoustic panels 201a, 201b. For example, the suspension cables 219a, 219b can have internal threads that allow them to be screwed onto the threaded rods 231a, 231b. In this way, the suspension cables 219a, 219b are connected to the frame elements 226a, 226b via the threaded rods 231a, 231b, thereby supporting the acoustic panels 201a, 201b from below. Therefore, the load path bypasses the material of the acoustic panels 201a, 201b, which increases the overall stability of the suspended sound baffle system 200. In addition, the weight of any additional elements attached to the frame elements 226a, 226b, such as LED lights 233a, 233b, is mainly supported by the suspension cables 219a, 219b rather than the acoustic panels 201a, 201b. Thus, the threaded rods 231a, 231b serve as support elements, which are described in more detail above.

[0227] However, the frame elements 226a, 226b need not be substantially U-shaped in profile. Any suitable frame elements 226a, 226b may be used. For example, Figure 2i An exploded view of an alternative embodiment is depicted in which the spacing elements 226a, 226b are plates / washers (for simplicity, Figure 2i The magnet 203 and the spacer element 202 have been omitted). The threaded rods 231a, 231b are connected to Figure 2f and Figure 2g The threaded rods 231a, 231b extend through each acoustic panel 201a, 201b between the upper secondary face 208a, 208b and the lower secondary face 207a, 207b of the acoustic panel 201a, 201b in the same manner as shown in FIG. The upper ends of the threaded rods 231a, 231b are attached to the suspension cables 219a, 219b, and the lower ends of the threaded rods 231a, 231b are attached to the frame elements 226a, 226b.

[0228] The upper ends of the threaded rods 231a, 231b may be passed through holes in the plates / washers 235a, 235b before being connected to the suspension cables 219a, 219b. This prevents the suspension cables 219a, 219 from penetrating into the acoustic panels 201a, 201b when they are screwed onto the threaded rods 231a, 231b.

[0229] Although threaded rods 231a, 231b are used as support elements in the embodiment depicted in the figures, any suitable support element may be used.

[0230] Numbering implementation method

[0231] Embodiment 1. A sound baffle, comprising:

[0232] an acoustic panel comprising two opposing major faces and a plurality of minor faces extending between the two major faces;

[0233] a spacing element secured to the first sub-surface of the acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material; and

[0234] At least one magnet, at least one of the magnets being secured to the secondary surface of the acoustic panel.

[0235] Embodiment 2. The sound baffle of embodiment 1, wherein the acoustic panel further comprises a third surface.

[0236] Embodiment 3. The sound baffle of Embodiment 2, further comprising a frame element attached to a third surface of the acoustic panel, wherein the frame element extends along at least a portion of the length of the third surface.

[0237] Embodiment 4. The sound baffle of embodiment 3, wherein the frame element is a substantially U-shaped profile.

[0238] Embodiment 5. The sound baffle of embodiment 3 or 4, wherein the frame element is made of metal.

[0239] Embodiment 6. The sound baffle of any one of Embodiments 3 to 5, further comprising one or more lights attached to the frame element, preferably wherein the lights are LED lights.

[0240] Embodiment 7. The sound baffle of any one of Embodiments 2 to 6, wherein the secondary surface is opposite the primary surface, and the tertiary surface extends between the primary surface and the secondary surface.

[0241] Embodiment 8. The sound baffle of Embodiment 7, wherein the acoustic panel further comprises a fourth secondary surface extending between the first secondary surface and the second secondary surface, wherein the fourth secondary surface is opposite to the third secondary surface.

[0242] Embodiment 9. The sound baffle of embodiment 8, wherein the two major faces of the acoustic panel are substantially rectangular, and the secondary faces extend substantially perpendicular to the two major faces.

[0243] Embodiment 10. The sound baffle of Embodiment 9, wherein the lengths of the first and second secondary surfaces are shorter than the lengths of the third and fourth secondary surfaces.

[0244] Embodiment 11. The acoustic baffle of any preceding embodiment, wherein the acoustic panel is a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel.

[0245] Embodiment 12. The sound baffle of any one of Embodiments 7 to 11, wherein at least one of the magnets is secured to the secondary surface such that at least one of the magnets is opposite to the spacing element secured to the primary surface.

[0246] Embodiment 13. A sound baffle according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the spacing element comprises a substantially flat surface configured to contact at least one magnet of another sound baffle, preferably wherein the spacing element is a substantially flat plate.

[0247] Embodiment 14. A sound baffle according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the spacing element extends across a majority of the first surface of the acoustic panel, preferably wherein the spacing element extends across substantially the entire first surface.

[0248] Embodiment 15. A sound baffle according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the spacing element extends outwardly from the first surface of the acoustic panel by no more than 10 mm, preferably no more than 5 mm, more preferably no more than 3 mm, most preferably from 2 mm to 3 mm.

[0249] Embodiment 16. A sound baffle according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein at least one of the magnets comprises a substantially flat surface configured to contact a spacer element of another sound baffle, preferably wherein the surface is substantially circular, and most preferably wherein at least one of the magnets is substantially disc-shaped.

[0250] Embodiment 17. The sound baffle of any preceding embodiment, wherein at least one of the magnets is positioned substantially centrally between the two major faces of the acoustic panel.

[0251] Embodiment 18. The acoustic baffle of any preceding embodiment, wherein at least one of the magnets extends across at least half of the width of the secondary surface between the two major surfaces of the acoustic panel.

[0252] Embodiment 19. A sound baffle according to any preceding embodiment, wherein at least one of the magnets extends outwardly from the secondary surface of the acoustic panel by no more than 15 mm, preferably no more than 10 mm, most preferably no more than 7 mm.

[0253] Embodiment 20. The sound baffle of any preceding embodiment, wherein at least one of the magnets is positioned in a recess in the secondary surface of the acoustic panel such that the magnet is substantially flush with the secondary surface.

[0254] Embodiment 21. The acoustic baffle of any preceding embodiment, comprising two magnets spaced apart along the length of the secondary surface of the acoustic panel.

[0255] Embodiment 22. A sound baffle according to any preceding embodiment, wherein the spacing element and / or at least one of the magnets are mechanically fastened to the acoustic panel.

[0256] Embodiment 23. A sound baffle system comprising:

[0257] a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposing major faces and one or more minor faces extending between the two said major faces, and wherein each acoustic panel is suspended from a ceiling;

[0258] a spacing element secured to a secondary face of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material; and

[0259] at least one magnet, at least one of the magnets being secured to a secondary face of the second acoustic panel;

[0260] Wherein, a surface of at least one of the magnets contacts a surface of the spacing element, thereby connecting the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel together.

[0261] Embodiment 24. The sound baffle system of embodiment 23, wherein substantially the entire surface of at least one of the magnets is in contact with a surface of the spacing element.

[0262] Embodiment 25. The sound baffle system according to embodiment 23 or 24, wherein the pulling force of at least one of the magnets is 50N to 300N, preferably 250N to 300N.

[0263] Embodiment 26. A sound baffle system as described in any one of Embodiments 23 to 25, wherein the acoustic panels are suspended so that both of the major faces of each panel extend downwardly.

[0264] Embodiment 27. The sound baffle system of embodiment 26, wherein the spacer element is fixed to a secondary surface of one side of the first acoustic panel, and at least one of the magnets is fixed to a secondary surface of one side of the second acoustic panel.

[0265] Embodiment 28. The acoustic baffle system of Embodiment 27, wherein each acoustic panel is suspended from the ceiling by one or more suspension cables attached to an upper surface of each acoustic panel.

[0266] Embodiment 29. The acoustic baffle system of embodiment 28, wherein each acoustic panel is suspended from the ceiling by only one suspension cable, preferably wherein the suspension cable is attached approximately centrally between the sides of each panel.

[0267] Embodiment 30. A sound baffle system according to any one of embodiments 27 to 29, wherein a frame element is attached to the lower surface of at least one of the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel, wherein the frame element extends along at least a portion of the lower surface.

[0268] Embodiment 31. A sound baffle system as described in Embodiment 30, wherein a single frame element extends along both panels.

[0269] Embodiment 32. A sound baffle system according to embodiment 30, wherein the first acoustic panel is attached to a first frame element and the second acoustic panel is attached to a second frame element, optionally wherein the first frame element and the second frame element are connected together.

[0270] Embodiment 33. A sound baffle system according to any one of Embodiments 23 to 32, wherein at least one of the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel includes a tube for accommodating a cable, wherein the tube extends through at least a portion of the acoustic panel.

[0271] Embodiment 34. A method of installing an acoustic baffle system, the method comprising:

[0272] (i) providing a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposing major faces and one or more minor faces extending between the two major faces;

[0273] (ii) securing a spacing element to the secondary face of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material;

[0274] (iii) securing at least one magnet to the secondary surface of the second acoustic panel;

[0275] (iv) suspending the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel from a ceiling; and

[0276] (v) contacting a surface of at least one of the magnets with a surface of the spacing element to connect the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel together.

[0277] Embodiment 35. A sound baffle system according to embodiment 34, wherein the acoustic panels are suspended so that both of the major surfaces of each panel extend downwardly.

[0278] Embodiment 36. A sound baffle system according to embodiment 35, wherein the acoustic panel is suspended so that the secondary surface to which the spacing element is fixed is located on one side of the first acoustic panel, and the secondary surface to which at least one magnet is fixed is located on one side of the second acoustic panel.

[0279] Embodiment 37. The method of embodiment 36, further comprising:

[0280] (vi) adjusting the position of at least one of the magnets relative to the spacing element so that the upper surface of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the upper surface of the second acoustic panel and / or the lower surface of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the lower surface of the second acoustic panel.

[0281] Embodiment 38. The method according to any one of embodiments 34 to 37, further comprising:

[0282] (vii) adjusting the position of at least one of the magnets relative to the spacing element so that the major surface of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the major surface of the second acoustic panel.

[0283] Embodiment 39. A method according to embodiment 37 or 38, wherein the position of at least one of the magnets relative to the spacing element is adjusted after the acoustic panel has been suspended from the ceiling.

[0284] Embodiment 40. The method of any one of embodiments 36 to 39, further comprising:

[0285] (vi) attaching a frame element to a lower face of at least one of the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel, wherein the frame element extends along at least a portion of the lower face.

[0286] Embodiment 41. A method according to embodiment 40, wherein step (vi) includes attaching a single frame element so that the single frame element extends along two panels.

[0287] Embodiment 42. A method according to embodiment 40, wherein step (vi) includes attaching a first frame element to the first acoustic panel, attaching a second frame element to the second acoustic panel, and optionally connecting the first frame element and the second frame element together.

[0288] Embodiment 43. A method according to any one of embodiments 40 to 42, wherein step (vi) further comprises attaching one or more lights to the frame element, preferably wherein the frame element and lights are attached before the acoustic panel is suspended from the ceiling.

[0289] Embodiment 44. A kit for installing an acoustic baffle system, the kit comprising:

[0290] a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposing major faces and one or more minor faces extending between the two said major faces;

[0291] a spacing element configured to be attached to a secondary face of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material;

[0292] at least one magnet, at least one of the magnets being configured to be attached to a secondary face of the second acoustic panel; and

[0293] One or more suspension elements, one or more of the suspension elements are used to suspend the acoustic panel from a ceiling.

Claims

1. A sound baffle, comprising: an acoustic panel comprising two opposing major faces and a plurality of minor faces extending between the two major faces, wherein the acoustic panel is a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel; a spacing element secured to the first sub-surface of the acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material; and At least one magnet is secured to the secondary surface of the acoustic panel.

2. The sound baffle according to claim 1, wherein: The acoustic panel also includes a third surface.

3. The sound baffle of claim 2, further comprising a frame element attached to a third surface of the acoustic panel, wherein: The frame element extends along at least a portion of the length of the third surface, preferably wherein: The frame element is a substantially U-shaped profile.

4. The sound baffle according to claim 3, wherein: The frame elements are made of metal; and / or Wherein the sound baffle further comprises one or more lights attached to the frame element, preferably wherein the lights are LED lights.

5. The sound baffle according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein: The secondary surface is opposite to the first surface, and the third surface extends between the first surface and the second surface.

6. A sound baffle according to any preceding claim, wherein: The spacing element comprises a substantially flat surface configured for contact with at least one magnet of another sound baffle, preferably wherein, The spacer element is a substantially flat plate; and / or wherein the spacing element extends across a majority of the first sub-face of the acoustic panel, preferably wherein the spacing element extends across substantially the entire first sub-face; and / or Therein, the spacing element extends outwardly from the first face of the acoustic panel by no more than 10 mm, preferably no more than 5 mm, more preferably no more than 3 mm, most preferably from 2 mm to 3 mm.

7. An acoustic baffle according to any preceding claim, wherein: The at least one magnet comprises a substantially flat surface configured for contact with a spacing element of another acoustic baffle, preferably wherein, The surface is substantially circular, most preferably wherein the at least one magnet is substantially disc-shaped; and / or wherein said at least one magnet is positioned substantially centrally between said two main faces of said acoustic panel; and / or wherein said at least one magnet extends between said two primary surfaces of said acoustic panel across at least half of the width of said secondary surface; and / or Wherein the at least one magnet is positioned in a recess in the secondary surface of the acoustic panel such that the magnet is substantially flush with the secondary surface.

8. A sound baffle system, comprising: a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposing major faces and one or more minor faces extending between the two major faces, wherein each acoustic panel is a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel, and wherein each acoustic panel is suspended from a ceiling; a spacing element secured to a secondary face of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material; and at least one magnet secured to a secondary face of the second acoustic panel; Wherein a surface of the at least one magnet contacts a surface of the spacer element, thereby connecting the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel together.

9. The sound baffle system of claim 8, wherein: Substantially the entire surface of the at least one magnet is in contact with the surface of the spacing element; and / or The traction force of the at least one magnet is 50N to 300N, preferably 250N to 300N.

10. The sound baffle system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein: The acoustic panels are suspended such that both of the major faces of each panel extend downwardly.

11. The sound baffle system of claim 10, wherein: The spacing element is fixed to a minor face of one side of the first acoustic panel, and the at least one magnet is fixed to a minor face of one side of the second acoustic panel.

12. The sound baffle system of claim 11, wherein: Each acoustic panel is suspended from the ceiling by one or more suspension cables attached to the upper face of each acoustic panel, preferably wherein: Each acoustic panel is suspended from the ceiling by only one suspension cable, more preferably wherein the suspension cable is attached substantially centrally between the sides of each panel.

13. The sound baffle system of claim 11 or 12, wherein: A frame element is attached to a lower face of at least one of the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel, wherein the frame element extends along at least a portion of the lower face.

14. The sound baffle system of claim 13, wherein: A single frame member extends along both panels; or Wherein the first acoustic panel is attached to a first frame element and the second acoustic panel is attached to a second frame element.

15. The sound baffle system of claim 11, wherein: At least one of the acoustic panels is suspended from a ceiling by a suspension element, wherein a support element extends through the acoustic panel between an upper secondary face and a lower secondary face of the acoustic panel, wherein an upper end of the support element is attached to the suspension element and a lower end of the support element is attached to a frame element on the lower secondary face of the acoustic panel.

16. A method of installing an acoustic baffle system, the method comprising: (i) providing a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposing major faces and one or more minor faces extending between the two major faces, and wherein each acoustic panel is a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel; (ii) securing a spacing element to the secondary face of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material; (iii) securing at least one magnet to the secondary surface of the second acoustic panel; (iv) suspending the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel from a ceiling; and (v) contacting a surface of the at least one magnet with a surface of the spacing element to connect the first acoustic panel and the second acoustic panel together.

17. The sound baffle system of claim 16, wherein: The acoustic panels are suspended such that both of the major faces of each panel extend downwardly.

18. The sound baffle system of claim 17, wherein: The acoustic panel is suspended such that the secondary face to which the spacing elements are fixed is on a side of the first acoustic panel and the secondary face to which the at least one magnet is fixed is on a side of the second acoustic panel.

19. The method according to claim 18, further comprising: (vi) adjusting the position of the at least one magnet relative to the spacing element so that the upper secondary surface of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the upper secondary surface of the second acoustic panel and / or so that the lower secondary surface of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the lower secondary surface of the second acoustic panel; and / or Wherein, the method further comprises: (vii) adjusting the position of the at least one magnet relative to the spacing element so that the major surface of the first acoustic panel is aligned with the major surface of the second acoustic panel.

20. A kit for installing an acoustic baffle system, the kit comprising: a first acoustic panel and a second acoustic panel, wherein each acoustic panel comprises two opposing major faces and one or more minor faces extending between the two major faces, and wherein each acoustic panel is a man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) panel; a spacing element configured to be attached to a secondary face of the first acoustic panel, wherein the spacing element comprises a ferromagnetic material; at least one magnet configured to be attached to a secondary face of the second acoustic panel; and One or more suspension elements for suspending the acoustic panel from a ceiling.

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