Modular privacy screen system

Abstract

Modular attachment element for mounting on tabletops, comprising a fastening element (1) and an insertion element (2), wherein the fastening means (1) comprises a receiving element (3) for the detachable receiving of the insertion element (2) and a fixing element (4) for detachable attachment to a table top, wherein the receiving element (3) has a cross-sectional geometry essentially U-shaped with two spaced-apart, opposing legs (5), characterized by the fact that within the respective leg surfaces there is an opening (7).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a modular attachment element for mounting on tabletops.

[0002] Modern learning and working environments increasingly rely on cooperative forms of work such as partner and group work. This trend can be observed in schools and universities, as well as in modern workplaces, particularly co-working spaces. Nevertheless, periods of focused individual work remain necessary. During these periods, external distractions should be minimized as much as possible, and a quiet working atmosphere should be created.

[0003] The creation of individual workstations through the use of partitions, particularly privacy screens, is a well-known practice. Various types of partitions exist, which can be placed on or attached to a table. Devices that can be placed freely on a table have the disadvantage of being prone to slipping or tipping. Furthermore, they significantly restrict the available table space. In contrast, devices that can be attached to the side of the table offer a stable and space-saving alternative.

[0004] CH 710783 A2 describes an exemplary partition wall device with a detachably fastened retaining element which can be clamped to the table top by means of a spring-loaded clamping tongue and has slot-shaped recesses on the top into which a partition wall can be inserted.

[0005] Beyond adaptability to individual and group work phases, the use of bulky aids such as books or tablets necessitates flexible workplace adjustments. Devices that can secure these aids while minimizing the workspace footprint are advantageous in this regard. It is particularly beneficial if such devices can be easily removed or stored away to save space when not in use.

[0006] EP 2 860 409 A2 describes a device for attaching objects, such as computer or office equipment, to tabletops. The objects can be slid onto rails. The device is attached to the tabletop using an eccentric clamp. The attachment is generally permanent and not temporary.

[0007] The developments known from the prior art reveal various approaches to improving the mounting of devices for attaching objects to tabletops, but each is limited to specific applications. Furthermore, the aspect of temporary use, which requires space-saving and uncomplicated storage, remains largely unaddressed.

[0008] The challenge, therefore, is to provide an easily assembled add-on element that can be used to adapt the workplace to different conditions. Furthermore, it should be easy to store and stow away when not in use, saving space.

[0009] This problem is solved according to the invention by a modular attachment element for fastening to tabletops, comprising a fastening means and an insertion element, wherein the fastening means comprises a receiving element for the detachable receiving of the insertion element and a fixing element for detachable attachment to a tabletop, wherein the receiving element has a cross-sectional geometry essentially U-shaped with two spaced-apart, opposing legs, wherein an opening is provided within the respective leg surfaces.

[0010] Thanks to its modular design, consisting of a fastener and an insert element, it can be adapted to a wide variety of working conditions. The positioning of the add-on element on the tabletop is not dependent on its side; rather, it can be variably attached at different positions along the edge of the tabletop, depending on requirements and application.

[0011] The fastener can be divided into a receiving element and a fixing element. Ideally, the fastener is made of a robust material, such as sheet steel or aluminum. The material preferably has a thickness between 1 and 3 mm, and more preferably between 1.5 and 2 mm.

[0012] The fixing element allows for the detachable attachment of the add-on to the tabletop. Installation is tool-free and simple, enabling even those without technical training, such as students, to carry it out successfully. Because the installation is reversible and requires no structural modifications, it is ideally suited for changing usage scenarios.

[0013] The receiving element serves to detachably hold the insert element. In cross-section, it has a generally U-shaped geometry. This is formed by two spaced-apart, opposing legs and preferably a base plate. The base plate serves to connect the two legs. However, it is also conceivable that the two legs could be connected by a bulge or a V-shaped section in cross-section.

[0014] The legs are designed such that an opening is present within each leg surface. These openings are suitable for hanging the fastening element. This is particularly useful during storage when the attachment element according to the invention is not actively used.

[0015] The insertion element can be designed in various ways. Depending on its design, the attachment element is suitable for different functions. In principle, it is also conceivable to fix bulky elements directly in the holder of the receiving element.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the insertion element is plate-shaped. The plate-shaped structures can be either one-piece or multi-piece, depending on the functionality of the insertion element. A multi-piece structure does not necessarily mean that the object consists of several separate parts subsequently joined together. It can also be a one-piece structure with a designated hinge, folding, or bending area. The multi-piece structures can be in both a flat and a bent or folded form.

[0017] Preferably, the material thickness of the insertion element is between 5 and 20 mm, particularly preferably between 10 and 15 mm, and especially around 12 mm. However, material thicknesses outside this range are also conceivable, provided they still allow insertion into the receiving element. Preferably, the dimensions of the insertion element are matched to the dimensions of the receiving element in such a way that the insertion element is easily clamped between the legs of the receiving element.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, the insert element is used as a privacy screen. When used as a privacy screen, it preferably has a one-piece, plate-shaped structure. Preferably, the insert element has a substantially rectangular base shape. In one possible embodiment, one of the four corners of the substantially rectangular base shape is replaced by a chamfered edge.

[0019] The dimensions of the insert element are preferably selected to provide effective shielding between adjacent workstations. According to a preferred embodiment, the length of the insert element is between 30 and 70 cm, particularly preferably between 40 and 60 cm, and especially approximately 50 cm. The height of the insert element is preferably between 30 and 50 cm, and especially approximately 40 cm.

[0020] In an alternative embodiment, the insertion element is used as a holder. This preferably involves a multi-part structure. In its bent form, this can serve as a holder for a tablet or similar device.

[0021] The possibility of forming the flat shape, both of the one-piece and the multi-piece insert element, makes it possible to store and transport the elements in a space-saving manner.

[0022] The material of the insert element should preferably be dimensionally stable and lightweight to allow for easy handling and reliable positioning. Particularly when used as a privacy screen, it is advantageous to use an opaque material that prevents anyone from seeing through the insert element. Furthermore, materials with sound-absorbing properties can be used to reduce noise levels.

[0023] Various material classes are suitable for the insert element, such as fiber-based composites, plastic sheets, or wood-based materials. Fiber-based composites, especially polyester fiber sheets, are preferred.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the fastening element is fixed by means of a clamping action. Here, the tabletop is positioned between the underside of the receiving element and the fixing element. It is particularly preferred if the underside of the receiving element is formed by a base plate connecting the legs, as this provides a flat contact surface that ensures particularly secure fixing of the fastening element to the tabletop.

[0025] In this embodiment, the base plate serves a dual function. Firstly, it acts as a connecting element between the legs of the mounting element, and secondly, as a counterpart for fixing the fastener to the tabletop. Integrating these two functions into the same component eliminates the need for additional parts, thus reducing the overall system complexity.

[0026] The fixing element used in this embodiment achieves fixation through a clamping action, enabling a secure yet reversibly releasable hold. The clamping action can be implemented in various ways. Examples of such fixing elements include U-shaped or tensionable clamping devices.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, the fixing element comprises an eccentric clamp. Here, a rotatable, eccentrically shaped clamping body is pressed against the tabletop. A high clamping force can thus be generated by simple rotation, thereby reliably fixing the fastener.

[0028] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the eccentric clamp is positioned below the underside of the receiving element, in particular below the base plate. This allows for a substantially identical side profile of the eccentric clamp and the base plate. This is particularly advantageous because the fastening element is designed in a particularly space-saving manner. The fastening element preferably has a maximum depth of 40 mm, and more preferably a depth between 10 and 30 mm.

[0029] With an elongated design, the eccentric lever remains easy to grip despite its narrow width, making it simple to secure. The eccentric lever should be made of a sturdy material, preferably aluminum. Alternatively, it can also be made of plastic.

[0030] In one exemplary embodiment, the eccentric lever can be variably attached to the fastener in different positions. The different positioning of the eccentric lever on the fastener itself facilitates the fixing of the fastener to tabletops with varying thicknesses. Preferably, the eccentric lever can be attached to the fastener in two different positions. Preferred tabletop thicknesses are between 10 and 25 mm, with 12 and 19 mm being particularly preferred.

[0031] Advantageously, the fastening device can be designed such that at least one anti-slip element is attached to the underside of the receiving element, particularly the underside of the base plate. Anti-slip elements are especially beneficial when the underside or base plate is used as part of the fixing mechanism and comes into contact with the tabletop. The anti-slip elements prevent slippage on the tabletop and ensure a stable and damage-free connection to the table surface.

[0032] The anti-slip elements can be in various forms such as strips, pads, dots, or as a flat coating. One or more anti-slip elements can be attached to the underside. A preferred embodiment has one or more anti-slip elements positioned at least along the longitudinal ends of the underside of the base plate.

[0033] The material of the anti-slip elements preferably consists at least partially of an elastomeric or viscoelastomeric material. Suitable materials can include rubber, silicone, thermoplastic elastomers, and / or foams. The use of rubber or silicone is particularly preferred, especially the use of rubber.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the legs of the receiving element are of different heights. This has the advantage over legs of the same height that it facilitates the insertion of the plug-in element into the receiving element. The height difference of the legs is preferably between 0.5 and 3 cm, more preferably between 1 and 2 cm, and most preferably 1 cm.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment, the legs of the receiving element are wider than they are tall. In the attachment element according to the invention, a single fastening element is preferably combined with an insertion element. Therefore, a single fastening element should be sufficient for good stabilization and adequate guidance of the insertion element. The legs preferably have a width between 10 and 20 cm, more preferably between 13 and 17 cm, and most preferably approximately 15 cm. The height of the legs is preferably between 5 and 15 cm, more preferably between 7 and 13 cm, and most preferably between 10 and 11 cm.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment, the openings within the opposing leg surfaces are congruent. These openings are suitable for suspending the fastening element. A particularly advantageous feature is therefore a continuous opening through the material, for example, in the form of congruently arranged openings. This allows for a linear arrangement of several elements one behind the other in a suspended position, thus achieving space-saving and tidy storage.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment, the openings within the leg surfaces are slot-shaped. The slot-shaped design allows for a defined and stable positioning of the fasteners during suspension and prevents any twisting of the fasteners. The slot-shaped openings are preferably rectangular. They preferably have a width between 1 and 3 cm, particularly preferably 2 cm. The height is preferably between 5 and 8 cm, particularly preferably between 6 and 8 cm, and especially 7 cm.

[0038] The slot-shaped openings within the inner surfaces are preferably positioned centrally to the side ends. Furthermore, the distance between the nearest edge and each opening is preferably at least 0.5 cm, and particularly preferably at least 1 cm. This distance is intended to ensure sufficient mechanical strength and structural integrity of the leg. Depending on the strength of the material used, smaller distances outside the specified range are conceivable.

[0039] A suitable container, specifically designed to accommodate the modular attachment element according to the invention, can be used for storage. This container enables safe and space-saving storage as well as protection from external influences.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the system comprises the modular attachment element and the container. The container serves, in particular, for the transport and / or storage of the modular attachment element. Preferably, the container has a substantially cuboid base frame, which is vertically oriented and in which the attachment element according to the invention can be stored. Preferably, the container is designed such that one container can meet the needs of a larger group, such as a school class, for the attachment element according to the invention.

[0041] Ideally, the storage unit should be easily accessible, which can be achieved via front access. The front can be open or closable. For example, the front can be fitted with a door to close the storage space.

[0042] According to a preferred embodiment, the container includes at least one suspension device for suspending the fastening elements. The suspension device can be designed, for example, as a hook, rod, strip, or similar element.

[0043] The suspension device should ideally allow for a compact arrangement of the fasteners. A self-supporting suspension device is therefore preferred, to which the fasteners can be attached by hanging or clipping them on.

[0044] The fasteners are preferably attached to the suspension device through the openings provided for this purpose within the leg surfaces. It is advantageous if the dimensions of the suspension device are adapted to the dimensions of the opening within the leg surfaces.

[0045] To store the attachment element according to the invention, provisions are made for both the fastening means and the insertion element. For this purpose, in addition to the suspension device for receiving the fastening means, the container preferably has additional storage space in which the insertion elements can be stored.

[0046] For easier transport, the container should be mobile. This can be achieved by equipping the container with one or more casters mounted on the underside. The casters allow for easy movement and repositioning of the container. It is also possible to equip the casters with a locking mechanism to secure the container in a desired position when needed.

[0047] It should be noted that singular or plural forms are used generically in the description of the various elements and do not aim to limit the invention unless a specific number of certain elements is explicitly stated.

[0048] The invention is explained in more detail using the attached figures as examples. They show: Fig. 1 Frontal view of the modular attachment element according to the invention as a privacy screen; Fig. 2 Frontal view of the fastener; Fig. 3 Side view of the fastener; Fig. 4 Insertion element in a further preferred embodiment as a tablet holder or bookend, in this case in planar form; Fig. 5 Insertion element in a further preferred embodiment as a tablet holder or bookend, here in an angled form; Fig. 6 Empty container with hanging device; and Fig. 7 Packed container with hanging device.

[0049] Fig. Figure 1 shows a frontal view of the modular attachment element according to the invention, which is mounted on a tabletop. Both the fastening element 1 and the insertion element 2 are visible. The insertion element 2 is a one-piece component that can be used as a privacy screen. It is essentially rectangular, with one corner beveled. The insertion element 2 is inserted into the U-shaped receiving element 3 of the fastening element, so that it is mounted orthogonally to the tabletop. Within the area of ​​the leg 5, which laterally delimits the receiving element 3, a slot-shaped opening 7 is visible, arranged essentially centrally. The fixing element 4 is arranged below the receiving element 3.

[0050] The Fig. 2 and Fig. Figure 3 shows the fastener 1 in a front and a side view.

[0051] The fixing element 4 in Fig. 2 is represented as a simplified eccentric clamp. The free area above the eccentric clamp up to the base plate 6 of the mounting element 3 forms the area that is positioned on the tabletop. Furthermore, the slot-shaped openings 7 within the leg surfaces are aligned one behind the other.

[0052] Fig. Figure 3 shows the fastening element 1 from the side or in cross-section. The fixing element 4 is positioned below the base plate 6. Due to this arrangement, the entire fastening element 1 is particularly flat, with a maximum depth of less than 4 cm. The essentially U-shaped receiving element 3 is positioned above the fixing element 4. The opposing legs 5 have different heights.

[0053] In the Fig. 4 and Fig. Figure 5 shows another form of the insert element 2 as a tablet or book holder.

[0054] The in Fig. The planar form shown in Figure 4 is particularly suitable for storage or transport. Lines are indicated within the surface where the insert element 2 can be folded or folded over.

[0055] Fig. Figure 5 shows the insertion element 2 in its folded-over form, with the ends pointing forward. Additionally, the lower side ends are slightly bent upwards, preventing a leaning object from slipping off.

[0056] In the Fig. 6 and Fig. Figure 7 shows a container 8 in its unpacked and packed states. The container 8 has a generally cuboid base with an open front. Two suspension devices 9 are located in the upper section, from which the fastening elements 1 can be hung. The lower section has no suspension devices 9 and serves as storage space for the associated insert elements 2. Rollers 10 are attached to the bottom of the container 8.

[0057] Fig. Figure 7 shows a compact and organized storage solution achieved by combining container 8 and the modular attachment element. Reference symbol list 1 Fastener 2 Insert element 3 Recording element 4 fixing elements 5 thighs 6 Base plate 7 Opening within the thigh surface 8 containers 9 Suspension device 10 rolls QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] CH 710783 A2

[0004] EP 2 860 409 A2

[0006]

Claims

[1] Modular attachment element for mounting on tabletops, comprising a fastening element (1) and a plug-in element (2), wherein the fastening means (1) comprises a receiving element (3) for the detachable receiving of the insertion element (2) and a fixing element (4) for detachable attachment to a table top, wherein the receiving element (3) has a cross-sectional geometry essentially U-shaped with two spaced-apart, opposing legs (5), characterized by , that within the respective leg surfaces there is an opening (7). [2] Modular attachment element according to claim 1, characterized by , that the receiving element (3) has a base plate (6) between the opposing legs (5). [3] Modular attachment element according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the insertion element (2) is plate-shaped. [4] Modular attachment element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the insert element (2) is a privacy screen. [5] Modular attachment element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the fastening means (1) can be fixed by means of a clamping action, such that the table top is positioned between the underside, in particular the base plate (6) of the receiving element (3) and the fixing element (4). [6] Modular attachment element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the fixing element (4) includes an eccentric clamp. [7] Modular attachment element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the fastening element (1) has a depth between 10 and 30 mm. [8] Modular attachment element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that at least one anti-slip element is attached to the underside of the receiving element (3). [9] Modular attachment element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the legs (5) of the receiving element (3) are of different heights. [10] Modular attachment element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the legs (5) are each wider than they are tall. [11] Modular attachment element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the openings (7) within the opposing leg surfaces are congruent. [12] Modular attachment element according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the openings (7) within the leg surfaces are slit-shaped. [13] System comprising the modular attachment element according to one of the preceding claims and a container (8), wherein the container (8) serves for the transport and / or storage of the modular attachment element. [14] System according to claim 13, characterized bythat the container (8) includes at least one suspension device (9) for suspending the fastening means (1). [15] System according to claim 14, characterized by , that the dimensions of the suspension device (9) are adapted to the dimensions of the opening (7) within the leg surfaces. [16] System according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized by , that the container (8) is mounted on rollers (10) and is movable.

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