Wallboard system

Abstract

A wallboard system (10). The wallboard system (10) includes a panel (100) and a panel support handle (400). The panel (100) includes a first locking member (102) that is biased toward a locked configuration and movable to an unlocked configuration. The panel (100) also includes a first panel support handle guide (104). An abutting portion (402) is arranged on the panel supporting handle (400). The panel support handle (400) is engageable with the first panel support handle guide (104) at a first position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment (402) is spaced from the first locking member (102). The panel support handle (400) is movable along the first panel support handle guide (104) to a second position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment (402) engages the first locking member (102) to move the first locking member (102) from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wall panel system. Background Art

[0002] Panel walls (e.g., walls made from a series of connected panels) have a variety of uses, such as forming a barrier around equipment, defining pathways through a specific space, and dividing a workspace into different areas. Doors can be provided in the wall panels to allow for walk-through, and these doors can be locked to control access.

[0003] These types of protective systems are typically assembled using a variety of fasteners such as nuts, bolts, screws, clips, etc. While adaptable, this design is time-consuming to assemble, requires the production and supply of numerous parts, and requires following instructions that, if misinterpreted, can lead to incorrect assembly.

[0004] In the case of equipment or storage areas surrounded by walls, panels may be damaged, for example, by a vehicle backing into them or debris from the equipment striking them. These damaged panels can then be removed and replaced. However, removing panels presents certain challenges because, for example, penetrating the wall may expose users to risk (e.g., if the equipment surrounded by the wall is hazardous) or removing the panels may pose a safety risk (e.g., if goods are stored in the area surrounded by the wall).

[0005] Therefore, there is a significant need for a wall panel system that is easy to assemble, uses fewer fasteners than related art examples, and allows for controlled panel removal. Summary of the Invention

[0006] According to the present disclosure there is provided a system as set out in the accompanying claims. Further features of the invention will be apparent from the dependent claims and the following description.

[0007] Thus, a wall panel system (10) is provided. The wall panel system (10) includes a panel (100) and a panel support handle (400). The panel (100) includes a first locking member (102) that is biased toward a locked configuration and movable to an unlocked configuration. The panel (100) includes a first panel support handle guide (104). The panel support handle (400) defines an abutment (402). The panel support handle (400) is engageable with the first panel support handle guide (104) at a first position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment (402) is spaced apart from the first locking member (102). The panel support handle (400) is movable along the first panel support handle guide (104) to a second position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment (402) engages the first locking member (102) to move the first locking member from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration.

[0008] The panel support handle (400) is movable along the first panel support handle guide (104) from a second position on the first panel support handle guide (104) to a first position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment (402) disengages from the first locking member (102) to move the first locking member (102) from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration.

[0009] The first panel support handle guide (104) defines a first stop (106) that can engage with the panel support handle (400) after the panel support handle (400) has moved along the first panel support handle guide (104) far enough to allow the abutment (402) to engage with the first locking member (102), causing the first locking member (102) to move from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. The first stop (106) can prevent the panel support handle (400) from moving further along the first panel support handle guide (104), thereby allowing the panel (100) to be carried by the panel support handle (400).

[0010] The first locking member (102) includes a catch (108).

[0011] The first panel support handle guide (104) includes a first recess (112) on a first side (114) of the panel (100) for receiving the panel support handle (400). The first panel support handle guide (104) further includes a guide member (130) positioned in the first recess (112) to engage with a compatible guide member (430) on the panel support handle (400). The guide member (130) on the first panel support handle guide (104) can constrain the panel support handle (400) to move along a path between a first position and a second position.

[0012] The guide member (130) on the first panel support handle guide (104) and the guide member (430) on the panel support handle (400) may be overlapping and engageable tabs (110).

[0013] The panel (100) further includes a second panel support handle guide (204) including a second recess (212) on a second side (214) of the panel (100) for receiving the panel support handle (400). The second panel support handle guide (204) includes a guide member (230) positioned in the second recess (212) to engage with a guide member (430) on the panel support handle (400). The guide member (230) of the second panel support handle guide (204) can constrain the panel support handle (400) to move along a path defined by the guide member (230) in the second recess. When the panel support handle (400) is positioned in the second recess (212), the abutment (402) is spaced apart from the first locking member (102) on the panel (100).

[0014] The panel support handle (400) is removable from the panel (100) at a first position and secured to the panel (100) at a second position.

[0015] The wall panel system (10) further comprises a panel support column (300). The panel (100) has a column engagement feature (170). The panel support column (300) has a panel engagement feature (312). The column engagement feature (170) and the panel engagement feature (312) can be engaged so that the panel (100) is supported by the panel support column (300).

[0016] The column engagement feature (170) on the panel (100) can be an elongated member (172) extending from the panel support column (300). The panel engagement feature (312) on the panel support column (300) is configured as a cavity (304) that can receive the elongated member (172).

[0017] The panel support column (300) includes a second locking member (302) for engaging with the first locking member (102), so that in a locked configuration of the first locking member (102), the first locking member (102) can engage with the second locking member (302) to prevent the column engagement feature (170) and the panel engagement feature (312) from disengaging; and in an unlocked configuration of the first locking member (102), the first locking member (102) can disengage from the second locking member (302) to enable the column engagement feature (170) and the panel engagement feature (312) to separate.

[0018] A second locking member (302) may extend from the panel support column (300).

[0019] The wall panel system (10) includes at least one pair of panel support columns (300) spaced apart from each other, and the panel (400) is extendable therebetween.

[0020] Accordingly, an easy-to-assemble wall panel system (10) is provided, wherein the panel (100) in the wall panel system (10) has a built-in locking device (e.g., a first locking member (102)) that can be engaged and disengaged with a panel support handle (400). Therefore, the process of installing the panel (100) on the panel support column (300) is simple and allows the use of fewer fasteners than in examples of the related art. Removing the panel support handle (400) from the panel (100) prevents the first locking member (102) from moving to the unlocked configuration, which can prevent the panel (100) from being removed by an unauthorized user. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Examples of the present disclosure are described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 is a plan view of a wall panel system assembly in the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a first side of a panel, panel support handle, and panel support post assembly of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of a second side of a panel, panel support handle, and panel support column assembly of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 4 、 Figure 5 shows a first side of a panel and panel support column assembly of the present disclosure in various stages of assembly / disassembly;

[0026] Figures 6 and 7 showing a second side of the panel, panel support handle, and panel support post assembly of the present disclosure in various stages of assembly / disassembly;

[0027] Figures 8 to 10 showing an enlarged view of a first side of the panel and panel support column assembly in various stages of assembly / disassembly;

[0028] Figure 11 showing an enlarged view of a second side of the panel, panel support handle, and panel support post assembly in a locked configuration;

[0029] Figure 12 、 Figure 13 showing an enlarged view of a second side of the panel, panel support handle, and panel support post assembly in an unlocked configuration;

[0030] Figures 14 to 16 is a view of a panel support handle in the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 17 is an enlarged view of a panel support handle guide located on a second side of the panel;

[0032] Figure 18 is an enlarged view of a panel support handle guide located on a first side of the panel;

[0033] Figure 19 is an enlarged view of a first side of the panel and panel support handle assembly in a locked configuration;

[0034] Figure 20 is an enlarged view of a first side of the panel and panel support handle assembly in an unlocked configuration;

[0035] Figure 21 is an enlarged perspective view of a first side of the panel pre-assembled with the panel support handle, wherein the panel is in a locked configuration;

[0036] Figure 22 is an enlarged perspective view of a first side of the panel and the panel support handle in a locked configuration;

[0037] Figure 23 is an enlarged perspective view of a first side of the panel and the panel support handle in an unlocked configuration;

[0038] Figures 24 to 28 The steps of installing the wall panel system from the second side are shown; and

[0039] Figures 29 to 33 The steps of removing the wall panel system from the first side are shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0040] The present disclosure relates to a wall panel system 10, for example, for forming a wall panel assembly 12. The present disclosure also relates to a wall assembly 12 including the wall panel system 10.

[0041] Figure 1 FIG2 is a plan view of an example of a wall assembly 12 including a wall panel system 10 according to the present disclosure. The wall panel system 10 includes panels 100 and panel support columns 300. In the illustrated example, the wall panel system 10 includes a plurality of panels 100 and a plurality of panel support columns 300. The plurality of panel support columns 300 are spaced apart from one another, with the plurality of panels 100 spanning the gap between each pair of adjacent columns 300. In other words, the wall panel system 10 may include at least one pair of panel support columns 300 spaced apart from one another, with the panels 100 extending therebetween.

[0042] Panel 100 may have one or more transparent portions. For example, panel 100 may be a frame portion extending around a central region, the central region of which may be a transparent window. Panel 100 may also have one or more translucent portions. For example, panel 100 may be a frame portion extending around a central region, the central region of which may be a translucent window. Panel 100 may also be opaque. Panel 100 (e.g., the frame portion and the central region) may be integrally formed. For example, panel 100 (e.g., the frame portion and the central region) may be integrally formed from a polymer material using an injection molding process.

[0043] like Figure 2 As shown, the panel 100 has an outer edge wall segment 150 that extends completely around (i.e., defines) the circumference of the panel 100. The outer edge wall segment 150 includes a first end edge segment 152, a second end edge segment 154, a first side edge segment 156, and a second side edge segment 158. The first end edge segment 152 and the second end edge segment 154 are spaced apart from each other along the length (L) of the panel 100. The first side edge segment 156 and the second side edge segment 158 ​​are spaced apart from each other across the width (W) of the panel 100. The first side edge segment 156 and the second side edge segment 158 ​​extend between the first end edge segment 152 and the second end edge segment 154. The panel 100 has a first side 114 and a second side 214 that define the outer surface of the panel 100. The outer edge wall segment 150 extends between the first side 114 and the second side 214. Thus, the first side 114 is opposite the second side 214.

[0044] exist Figure 1In the example shown, the wall assembly 12 extends from a fixed wall 1000 (e.g., a fixed / structural portion of a building) and surrounds the equipment 900. For example, the wall assembly 12 can limit access to the equipment 900, or the wall assembly 12 can provide protection for the equipment 900 within a defined area. That is, the wall assembly 12 includes a plurality of panels 100 and panel support columns 300, which can be formed (i.e., defined) as an insulating wall assembly 12 that provides controlled access to an area (e.g., an area housing the equipment 900). For example, the equipment 900 can be a welding cell or machining equipment, and the wall assembly 12 can act as a barrier between the equipment and anyone or anything passing through the wall assembly 12. The wall assembly 12 can be of any shape or configuration, such as defining a walkway through an area, or extending continuously around an area (e.g., defining a work area in a warehouse).

[0045] Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figures 24 to 28 as well as Figures 29 to 33 A portion of a wall assembly 12 is shown, namely a panel 100 spanning the space between two panel support columns 300. The wall assembly 12 may include at least one panel support column 300 and one panel 100. The wall assembly 12 may include a plurality of panel support columns 300 and a plurality of panels 100. The features of the wall panel system 10 may be replicated / repeated for each panel 100 and column 300 combination.

[0046] In the figures, the panel 100 is rectangular, but may have any suitable shape and / or configuration.

[0047] like Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 10 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 19 、 Figures 27 to 30 As shown, the panel 100 is placed at the installation position on the panel support column 300. In other words, the panel 100 is installed / fixed (ie, located) on the panel support column 300. Figures 27 to 30 In the example shown, the panel 100 is mounted (eg, fixed) on two panel support columns 300. In other examples (eg, Figure 5 、 6 As shown), the panel 100 can be installed with only one support column 300.

[0048] The posts 300 on either side of the panel 100 are substantially identical, and both posts 300 can support the panel 100. However, only one post 300 can be used to lock the panel 100 in the installed position. In other examples (as shown), posts 300 on both sides of the panel 100 can lock the panel 100 in the installed position.

[0049] Therefore, the locking features of the panel 100 can be provided on one side edge segment (e.g., the first side edge segment 156 or the second side edge segment 158) of the panel 100. Alternatively, as shown in the figure, the locking features of the panel 100 can be provided on both side edge segments (e.g., the first side edge segment 156 and the second side edge segment 158) of the panel 100.

[0050] like Figure 2 、 Figures 4 to 13 、 Figures 18 to 23 As shown, the panel 100 includes a first locking member 102 that is biased toward a locked configuration and movable toward an unlocked configuration. Figures 18 to 23 As best shown in FIG, the first locking member 102 includes a catch 108. The first locking member 102 includes a resilient arm 160 extending from the panel 100 to the catch 108. The resilient arm 160 can be biased toward the locked configuration. That is, the resilient arm 160 can be biased to urge the catch 108 outward in a third direction D3 (i.e., along the width direction W, e.g., perpendicular to the length direction L in the plane of the panel 100), away from the center of the panel 100 and toward the side edge segments 156, 158 of the panel 100. Thus, the first locking member 102 can be spring-loaded toward the locked configuration. The first locking member 102 can be integrally formed with the panel 100. The first locking member 102 can be fixed to the panel 100.

[0051] like Figure 2 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figures 8 to 13 、 Figures 18 to 23 As shown, the panel 100 also includes a first panel support handle guide 104 .

[0052] like Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figures 11 to 13 、 Figures 19 to 33 shown in, and in particular Figures 14 to 17 As shown in FIG, the wall panel system 10 includes a panel support handle 400. Figures 14 to 17 As best shown in FIG. 4 , the panel support handle 400 can define an abutment 402. The abutment 402 can engage with the first locking member 102 to move the first locking member 102 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

[0053] like Figure 6 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 19 、 Figure 22 、 Figure 27 As shown, the panel support handle 400 is engageable with the first panel support handle guide 104 at a first position on the first panel support handle guide 104 such that the abutment 402 is spaced apart from the first locking member 102 .

[0054] like Figure 2 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figures 8 to 10 、 Figures 11 to 13 、 Figures 18 to 23 、 Figures 29 to 33 As shown, the first panel support handle guide 104 includes a first recess 112 located on a first side 114 of the panel 100 for receiving the panel support handle 400. That is, the panel 100 defines a first recess 112 on the first side 114 of the panel 100, and the first panel support handle guide 104 is located / formed in the first recess 112. The first recess 112 extends from the first side edge segment 156. The first recess 112 extends from the second side edge segment 158. As shown, the first recess 112 extends from one of the first side edge segment 156 and the second side edge segment 158. The first recess 112 is located between the first end edge segment 152 and the second end edge segment 154, approximately halfway along the length L of the panel 100.

[0055] The first panel support handle guide 104 further includes a guide member 130 disposed in the first recess 112 (eg, Figure 18 ) to engage with a compatible guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400 (as shown Figure 14 、 15 , 16). The guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 can constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined between a first position and a second position. In other words, the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 can be used to constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined along the length direction L of the panel 100 between the first position and the second position. In other words, the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 can constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along the same path in both the first direction D1 (upward as shown in the figure) and the second direction D2 (downward as shown in the figure). Therefore, the second direction D2 is opposite to the first direction D1.

[0056] The guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 and the guide member 430 of the panel support handle 400 may be tabs 110 that can overlap and engage with each other. In other words, the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 and the guide member 430 of the panel support handle 400 may be configured as spacer tabs, and their configuration, size, and position allow them to overlap and engage with each other when the panel support handle 400 is located in the first recess 112 and moves along the first recess 112 in the panel length direction L (i.e., in the first direction D1).

[0057] like Figures 6 and 7 、 Figures 11 to 12 、 Figures 19 to 20 、 Figures 22 to 23 The movement of the panel support handle 400 shown therein is best illustrated as the panel support handle 400 is movable and / or slidable along the first panel support handle guide 104 in a first direction D1 from a first position on the first panel support handle guide 104 to a second position on the first panel support handle guide 104 such that the abutment 402 engages the first locking member 102 to move the first locking member 102 from a locked configuration (e.g., Figure 19 、 22 ) moves to the unlocked configuration (as shown) Figure 20 、 23 shown).

[0058] like Figures 7 to 6 、 Figures 12 to 11 、 Figures 20 to 19 、 Figures 23 to 22 The movement of the panel support handle 400 is best illustrated in that the panel support handle 400 can be moved and / or slid along the first panel support handle guide 104 in the second direction D2 from the second position on the first panel support handle guide 104 to the first position on the first panel support handle guide 104, so that the abutment portion 402 disengages from the first locking member 102, so that the first locking member 102 moves from the unlocked configuration (e.g., Figure 20 、 23 ) moves to the locked configuration (as shown) Figure 19 、 22 shown).

[0059] That is, the panel support handle 400 can be moved and / or slid along the first panel support handle guide 104 from the second position on the first panel support handle guide 104 to the first position on the first panel support handle guide 104, so that the abutment 402 is disengaged from the first locking member 102, so that the catch member 108 of the first locking member 102 moves along the third direction D3 from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration, in which the catch member 108 is withdrawn from the side edge segments 156, 158 of the panel 100 (e.g., Figure 20、 23 As shown), in the locked configuration, the catch 108 moves toward the side edge segments 156, 158 (as shown in FIG. Figure 19 、 22 shown).

[0060] Thus, in the unlocked configuration, the resilient arm 160 can bend itself backwards for retracting the catch 108 (e.g., Figure 20 、 23 ), and in the locked configuration, the resilient arm 160 can rebound rearwardly to extend the catch 108 to engage with the second locking member 302 on the post 300.

[0061] like Figures 8 and 9 、 Figure 18 、 Figure 21 As shown, a first stopper 106 is defined on the first panel support handle guide 104. After the panel support handle 400 is moved far enough in the first direction D1 along the first panel support handle guide 104 so that the abutment 402 engages with the first locking member 102 to move the first locking member 102 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration, the first stopper 106 can engage with the panel support handle 400. After the panel support handle 400 is moved far enough in the length direction L (i.e., in the first direction D1) along the first panel support handle guide 104 so that the guide member 430 of the panel support handle 400 engages with the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104, slides on the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104, and is intercepted (captured) by the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104, the panel support handle 400 engages with the first stopper 106, thereby securing the panel support handle 400 to the panel 100. The first stop 106 prevents the panel support handle 400 from moving further along the first panel support handle guide 104 in the length direction L (i.e., along the first direction D1), and allows the panel support handle 400 to react against the first stop 106 when the panel 100 is carried by the panel support handle 400. The first stop 106 may be part of a wall of the first recess 112.

[0062] When the panel support handle 400 is in the first position, the panel support handle 400 can be removed from the panel 100. When the panel support handle 400 is in the second position, the panel support handle 400 can be secured to the panel 100 by means of the interconnection between the guide member 430 of the panel support handle 400 and the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104.

[0063] like Figures 4 to 13 As shown, the panel 100 has a post engagement feature 170. The post engagement feature 170 can be integrally formed with the panel 100. The post engagement feature 170 can be fixed to the panel 100. Figure 4 、 5 As shown, post engagement features 170 may be provided on the side edge segments 156, 158. The post engagement features 170 may be provided on the side edge segments 156, 158 in the area where the side edge segments 156, 158 intersect the first end edge segment 152 and the second end edge segment 154 (e.g., at the top and bottom corners of the panel 100).

[0064] like Figures 4 to 13 As shown, the panel support column 300 has a panel engagement feature 312. The panel engagement feature 312 can be integrally formed with the column 300. The panel engagement feature 312 can be fixed to the column 300. Figure 4 、 Figure 5 As shown, a plurality of panel engagement features 312 may be provided along the length of the column 300. The panel engagement features 312 may be spaced apart in the length direction L and spaced at the same distance as the column engagement features 170 on the panel 100. The or each column engagement feature 170 may engage with a corresponding panel engagement feature 312 such that the panel 100 is carried (supported) by the panel support column 300 to position the panel 100 and the panel support column 300 in an installed position relative to each other.

[0065] The or each post engagement feature 170 on the panel 100 may be an elongate member 172 (e.g., in the form of a finger or hook) extending from the panel support post 300. The or each panel engagement feature 312 on the panel support post 300 may be a cavity, hole or chamber 304 for receiving the elongate member 172.

[0066] like Figures 8 and 9 As best shown in FIG, the panel support column 300 includes a second locking member 302 for engaging with the first locking member 102. The second locking member 302 extends from the panel support column 300. The second locking member 302 may be an engagement platform 306 extending from the panel support column 300.

[0067] In the locked configuration of the first locking member 102, the first locking member 102 can engage with the second locking member 302 to prevent the first locking member 102 from moving in the first direction D1 and past the second locking member 302 to prevent the column engagement feature 170 or each column engagement feature 170 and the corresponding panel engagement feature 312 from disengaging.

[0068] In the unlocked configuration of the first locking member 102, the first locking member 102 can be disengaged from the second locking member 302, allowing the first locking member 102 to move past the second locking member 302 in the first direction D1, thereby allowing the column engagement feature 170 and the panel engagement feature 312 to separate from each other, allowing the panel 100 to be removed from the panel support column 300. In some examples, in the unlocked configuration, the catch 108 can be moved out of contact with the second locking member 302 (e.g., spaced apart from the second locking member 302) so that the catch 108 can move past the locking member 302. In other examples, such as Figure 9 As shown, in the unlocked configuration, the catch 108 can be angled / inclined relative to the second locking member 302 such that when the catch 108 travels in the first direction D1, the face of the catch 108 facing the second locking member 302 is angled relative to the second locking member 302 such that the catch 108 is pushed inward in a fourth direction D4 (i.e., in the width direction W, opposite to the third direction D3), causing the resilient arm 160 to bend itself rearward to allow the catch 108 to move past the second locking member 302.

[0069] like Figure 3 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 17 、 Figures 24 to 28 As shown, the panel 100 also includes a second panel support handle guide 204 on a second side 214 of the panel 100 (i.e., located on the side of the panel 100 opposite the first recess 112). The second panel support handle guide 204 includes a second recess 212 for receiving the panel support handle 400. That is, the panel 100 defines a second recess 212 on the second side 214 of the panel 100, and the second panel support handle guide 204 is located / formed in the second recess 212. The second recess 212 may extend from the first side edge segment 156. The second recess 212 may extend from the second side edge segment 158. As shown, the second recess 212 may extend from one of the first side edge segment 156 and the second side edge segment 158. The second recess 212 is located approximately halfway along the length L of the panel 100 between the first end edge segment 152 and the second end edge segment 154.

[0070] like Figure 17As best shown in FIG, the second panel support handle guide 204 includes a guide member 230 disposed in the second recess 212 to engage with a guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400. The guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 can constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined by the guide member 230 in the second recess (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100). The guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 can constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined between a first position and a second position. In other words, the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 can constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined between the first position and the second position along the length direction L of the panel. In other words, the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 may constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along the same path in the first direction D1 (“upward” as shown) and the second direction D2 (“downward” as shown).

[0071] The second panel support handle guide 204 has a second stop 206, such as Figure 17 After the panel support handle 400 has moved far enough along the panel support handle guide 204 in the length direction L (i.e., in the first direction D1) so that the guide member 430 of the panel support handle 400 engages with, slides on, and is intercepted (captured) by the guide member 230 of the panel support handle guide 204, it can engage with the second stop 206, securing the panel support handle 400 to the panel 100. The second stop 206 can prevent the panel support handle 400 from further movement along the panel support handle guide 204 in the length direction L (i.e., along the first direction D1), so that when the panel 100 is carried by the panel support handle 400, the panel support handle 400 reacts against the second stop 206. The second stop 206 can be part of a wall of the second recess 212.

[0072] When the panel support handle 400 is in the second recess 212, the abutment 402 is spaced apart from the first locking member 102 on the panel 100. Thus, in the example shown, the first locking member 102 can be operated only from the first side 114 of the panel 100. That is, the abutment 402 of the panel support handle 400 will engage with the first locking member 102 of the panel 100 to disengage the first locking member 102 from the second locking member 302 on the post 300 on the first side 114 of the panel 100, but not from the second side 214. On the second side 214, the panel support handle 400 fits into and engages the second recess 212, allowing the panel 100 to be lifted by the panel support handle 400, but the abutment 402 of the panel support handle 400 will be positioned so that it is spaced apart from the first locking member 102 and, therefore, will not engage with or move with the first locking member 102.

[0073] In other examples not shown, the second recess 212, the first locking member 102, and the panel support handle 400 are configured such that when the panel support handle 400 enters the second recess 212, the abutment 402 of the panel support handle 400 will engage the first locking member 102 of the panel 100, thereby disengaging the first locking member 102 from the second locking member 302 on the column 300. Thus, in this example, the panel support handle 400 will unlock the panel 100 from the column 300 from both the first side 114 and the second side 214.

[0074] Now refer to Figures 24 to 28 A method for assembling a panel 100 to a column 300 is described, wherein the panel 100 is operated using two panel support handles 400. For clarity, the operation of only one panel support handle 400 is described. However, regardless of whether one or more panel support handles 400 are used, the operation is the same for each panel support handle.

[0075] like Figure 24 As shown, the panel support handle 400 is first located in the second recess 212, so that the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 engages with the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400. The panel support handle 400 is first located in the second recess 212, so that the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 engages with the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400, so that the panel support handle 400 moves along the path defined by the second recess guide member 230 in the first direction D1 (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100) until the panel support handle 400 abuts against the second stopper 206 in the second recess 212.

[0076] The panel 100 is then raised to Figure 4 、 8 , 25 to align the column engagement features 170 on the panel 100 with the corresponding panel engagement features 312 on the panel support column 300. In the example where the panel 100 is supported by two columns 300, the column engagement features 170 on the two side edge segments 156, 158 need to be aligned with the corresponding panel engagement features 312 on the panel support column 300.

[0077] The panel 100 is then lowered in the second direction D2 (eg Figure 5 、 9 ), so that the column engagement features 170 on the panel 100 engage with the panel engagement features 312 on the panel support column 300.

[0078] The panel is then lowered further in the second direction D2 (eg Figure 10 、 26 302) until the first locking member 102 on the panel 100 moves past the second locking member 302 on the post 300 and moves outward in the third direction D3 (i.e., along the width direction W) such that the first locking member 102 is positioned below the second locking member 302. In other words, the panel 100 is lowered in the second direction D2 such that the first locking member 102 is in the unlocked configuration before it moves past the second locking member 302 and then in the locked configuration after it moves past the second locking member 302. In the example where the first locking member 102 is provided on both the first side edge segment 156 and the second side edge segment 158, the operating process (i.e., operating mode) is the same for both first locking members 102.

[0079] At this time, the panel 100 continues to be lowered further along the second direction D2 so that the column engagement features 170 on the panel 100 are placed on the panel engagement features 312 on the panel support columns 300 , so that the panel support columns 300 bear the weight of the panel 100 .

[0080] like Figure 27 As shown, the panel support handle 400 is then slid "downward" in the second direction D2 so that the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400 slides over and disengages from the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204. Figure 28 As shown, the or each panel support handle 400 is removable from (ie, removed from) the second recess 212 and the panel 100 .

[0081] Now refer to Figures 29 to 33A method of removing a panel 100 from a column 300 is described, wherein the panel 100 is manipulated using two panel support handles 400. For clarity, the operation of only one panel support handle 400 is described. However, regardless of whether one or more panel support handles 400 are used, the operation is the same for each panel support handle.

[0082] like Figure 30 As shown, the panel support handle 400 is first positioned in the first recess 112 on the first side 114 of the panel 100, such that the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 engages with the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400. The panel support handle 400 is first positioned in the first recess 112, such that the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 engages with the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400, so that the panel support handle 400 moves along a path defined by the first recess guide member 130 in the first direction D1 (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100) until the panel support handle 400 abuts against the first stop 106 in the first recess 112.

[0083] Now refer to Figures 11 to 13 , at which point the first locking member 102 is located below (eg, engaged with) the second locking member 302, as shown in FIG. Figure 11 At this point, the panel support handle abutment 402 is in the first position and spaced apart from the first locking member 102. The panel support handle 400 is then moved along the path defined by the first recess guide member 130 in the first direction D1 (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100) to the second position until the panel support handle 400 abuts the first stop 106 in the first recess 112 and the abutment 402 engages the first locking member 102 to move it from the locked configuration ( Figure 11 、 19 , 22) Move to the unlocked structure ( Figure 12 、 20 ,twenty three).

[0084] Then, the panel 100 can be lifted in the first direction D1 to a position as shown in FIG. Figure 13 、 32 The position shown allows the first locking member 102 to move past the second locking member 302 in the first direction D1 and disengage the column engagement features 170 on the panel 100 from the corresponding panel engagement features 312 on the panel support column 300. Figure 33 As shown, the panel 100 continues to be lifted in the first direction D1 until it is free from the post 300 and is carried by the panel support handle 400 .

[0085] The panel 100 may also be assembled to the column 300 via the panel support handle 400 in the first recess 112 .

[0086] The panel support handle 400 is first positioned in the first recess 112 on the first side 114 of the panel 100 such that the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 engages the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400. At this point, the panel support handle abutment 402 is in the first position and spaced apart from the first locking member 102. The panel support handle 400 is then moved in the first direction D1 (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100) to the second position along the constrained path defined by the first recess guide member 130 until the panel support handle 400 abuts the first stop 106 in the first recess 112 and the abutment 402 engages the first locking member 102 to move it from the locked configuration ( Figure 11 、 19 , 22) Move to the unlocked structure ( Figure 12 、 20 ,twenty three).

[0087] The panel 100 is then raised to Figure 4 、 8 The panel 100 is positioned as shown to align the post engagement features 170 on the panel 100 with the corresponding panel engagement features 312 on the panel support posts 300. In the example where the panel 100 is supported by two posts 300, the post engagement features 170 on the two side edge segments 156, 158 are aligned with the corresponding panel engagement features 312 on the panel support posts 300.

[0088] The panel 100 is then lowered in the second direction D2 (eg Figure 5 、 9 ), so that the column engagement features 170 on the panel 100 engage with the panel engagement features 312 on the panel support column 300.

[0089] Afterwards, the panel 100 is further lowered in the second direction D2 (eg Figure 10 300) until the first locking member 102 on the panel 100 moves and passes the second locking member 302 on the column 300. At this point, the panel 100 continues to be lowered further in the second direction D2, so that the column engagement feature 170 on the panel 100 is placed on the panel engagement feature 312 on the panel support column 300, so that the panel support column 300 bears the weight of the panel 100.

[0090] The panel support handle 400 then slides "downward" in the second direction D2, causing the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400 to slide along the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104. That is, the panel support handle 400 moves along the first panel support handle guide 104 from the second position on the first panel support handle guide 104 to the first position on the first panel support handle guide 104, causing the abutment 402 to disengage from the first locking member 102, thereby moving the first locking member 102 from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration. As a result, the first locking member 102 moves outward in the third direction D3 (i.e., in the width direction W), causing the first locking member 102 to be located below the second locking member 302.

[0091] Thus, the action of lifting the panel 100 with the panel support handle 400 (e.g., to position it on the panel support post 300) places the first locking member 102 in an unlocked configuration for attachment to the panel 100. Once the panel 100 has been positioned in place on the post 300, the action of removing the panel support handle 400 engages the first locking member 102 with the second locking member 302.

[0092] The panel support handle 400 is then slid "downward" in the second direction D2, causing the guide members 430 on the panel support handle 400 to slide over and disengage the guide members 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104. The or each panel support handle 400 can then be moved out of (i.e., removed from) the first recess 112 and the panel 100.

[0093] Accordingly, a wall panel system 10 is provided that is easy to assemble and secure together because the panels 100 of the wall panel system have built-in locking devices (e.g., first locking members 102) that engage when the panels 100 are in the installed position on the column 300 (e.g., when the panel support handle 400 is removed from the first side 114 of the panel 100, or when the panel support handle 400 is used to lift the panel 100 from the second side 214 of the panel 100, and / or even when the panel 100 is lifted and positioned on the column 300 without the panel support handle 400).

[0094] As part of the action of lifting the panel 100 from the post 300 , the panel 100 is also easily disengaged from the post 300 by disengaging the first locking member 102 using the panel support handle 400 on the first side 114 of the panel 100 .

[0095] However, the panel 100 cannot be disengaged from the post 300 without using the panel support handle 400. Therefore, removing the panel support handle 400 from the panel 100 prevents the first locking member 102 from moving to the unlocked configuration, which prevents the panel 100 from being removed by an unauthorized user.

[0096] Because the features securing panel 100 to panel support post 300 are integrally formed (ie, as part of panel 100 and panel support post 300), assembly of post 300 and panel 100 is simple and allows for the use of fewer fasteners than prior art examples.

[0097] Please note that all papers and documents related to this application that were filed concurrently with or before this specification are open to public inspection together with this specification, and the contents of all these papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0098] All features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) and / or all steps of any method or process disclosed therein may be combined in any combination, except combinations in which at least some of the features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0099] Unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose. Accordingly, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0100] The invention is not limited to the details of the foregoing embodiments. The invention extends to any novel one or any novel combination of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one or any novel combination of the steps of any method or process disclosed herein.

Claims

1. A wall panel system (10), characterized in that: include: a panel (100) and a panel support handle (400); Wherein, the panel (100) comprises: a first locking member (102) biased toward a locked configuration and movable to an unlocked configuration; The first panel supports a handle guide (104); and, The panel support handle (400) is defined with an abutment portion (402); wherein the panel support handle (400) is engageable with the first panel support handle guide (104) at a first position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment (402) is spaced apart from the first locking member (102); and The panel support handle (400) is movable along the first panel support handle guide (104) to a second position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment (402) engages the first locking member (102) to move the first locking member (102) from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

2. The wall panel system (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that: The panel support handle (400) can be moved along the first panel support handle guide (104) from the second position on the first panel support handle guide (104) to the first position on the first panel support handle guide (104), so that the abutment portion (402) and the first locking member (102) are disengaged from each other, thereby moving the first locking member (102) from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

3. The wall panel system (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The first panel support handle guide (104) has a first stop (106) thereon, and the panel support handle (400) can engage with the first stop (106) to move the first locking member (102) from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration after the panel support handle (400) moves along the first panel support handle guide (104) far enough to allow the abutment (402) to engage with the first locking member (102). The first stopper (106) prevents the panel support handle (400) from moving further along the first panel support handle guide (104) so ​​that the panel (100) is supported by the panel support handle (400).

4. A wall panel system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The first locking member (102) includes a catch (108).

5. A wall panel system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The first panel support handle guide (104) includes a first recess (112) on a first side (114) of the panel (100), the first recess (112) being adapted to receive the panel support handle (400); and, The first panel support handle guide (104) further includes a guide member (130) disposed in the first recess (112) to engage with a compatible guide member (430) on the panel support handle (400), the guide member (130) of the first panel support handle guide (104) constraining the panel support handle (400) to move along a path defined between a first position and a second position.

6. The wall panel system (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that The guide member (130) of the first panel support handle guide (104) and the guide member (430) of the panel support handle (400) may be of a tab (110) configuration that may overlap and engage with each other.

7. The wall panel system (10) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that The panel (100) further includes a second panel support handle guide (204), the second panel support handle guide (204) including a second recess (212) located on a second side (214) of the panel (100), the second recess (212) being adapted to receive the panel support handle (400); The second panel support handle guide (204) includes a guide member (230), the guide member (230) being disposed in the second recess (212) to engage with the guide member (430) on the panel support handle (400), the guide member (230) of the second panel support handle guide (204) being capable of constraining the panel support handle (400) from moving along a path defined by the guide member (230) in the second recess; Wherein, when the panel support handle (400) is in the second recess (212), the abutment portion (402) is spaced apart from the first locking member (102) on the panel (100).

8. A wall panel system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The panel support handle (400) is removable from the panel (100) at the first position and is secured to the panel (100) at the second position.

9. The wall panel system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a panel support column (300), characterized in that: The panel (100) has a post engagement feature (170); and, The panel support column (300) has a panel engagement feature (312); The column engagement features (170) and the panel engagement features (312) are engageable with each other so that the panel (100) is supported by the panel support column (300).

10. The wall panel system (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that The column engagement feature (170) on the panel (100) is an elongated member (172) extending from the panel support column (300); and, The panel engagement feature (312) on the panel support column (300) is a cavity (304) that receives the elongated member (172).

11. The wall panel system (10) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that The panel support column (300) includes a second locking member (302) for engaging with the first locking member (102); such that in the locked configuration of the first locking member (102), the first locking member (102) is engageable with the second locking member (302) to prevent disengagement of the post engagement feature (170) and the panel engagement feature (312); as well as, In the unlocked configuration of the first locking member (102), the first locking member (102) can be disengaged from the second locking member (302) to separate the post engagement feature (170) and the panel engagement feature (312).

12. The wall panel system (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that The second locking member (302) extends from the panel support column (300).

13. The wall panel system (10) according to any one of claims 9 to 12, characterized in that The invention comprises at least one pair of panel supporting columns (300) spaced apart from each other, and the panel (100) extends between the at least one pair of panel supporting columns (300).

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