Modular panel walls for exhibition stand construction

Abstract

The present invention concerns improved panel walls, in particular for exhibition stand construction, and an assembly of several such panel walls. The panels are adapted to be easily slid together without additional tools, thus ensuring alignment of the panel faces, while allowing anchoring of canvas cloths.

Description

[0001] MODULAR PANEL WALLS FOR EXHIBITION STAND CONSTRUCTION

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The invention relates to panels for modular panel walls with limited weight, which can be built up simply and quickly without additional material requirements (in terms of tools).

[0004] PRIOR ART

[0005] Well-known panel systems exist in many forms and face a variety of problems.

[0006] A number of systems are cumbersome and heavy, making them difficult to manipulate by a user when setting up and dismantling. Although this often ensures the stability of the construction, it is detrimental to the efficiency of set-up, it is often not ergonomically responsible, and it is more demanding in terms of material requirements and set-up requires many separate parts. Moreover, for safety, in such embodiments it will be necessary to anchor items to the floor, walls or other things, which in addition often requires additional tools.

[0007] Other systems aim to provide a lightweight solution, but lack stability. To make them stand upright and stand still, the panels must then be fixed to another structure, or hung, for example. This is not always possible (e.g. central positions separate from walls or other structures, locations with wind or drafts, etc.). Moreover, during fixation damage is often necessary to the panels in order to anchor them.

[0008] Additional problems are the use of circularity, which leads to panels being one-time use, precisely because they are too strongly anchored internally and that deconstruction is no longer possible or economical.

[0009] The present invention aims to find a solution for at least some of the above problems. By providing a lightweight structure, the panels can be easily set up. These panels can be reused and recycled. The simple coupling method ensures that the panels are set up without the need for loose parts or tools and thus not damaged during use. In addition, the choice of structure also ensures that they are stable enough by themselves not to require further suspension (unless, of course, very large structures are envisaged). None of the existing systems combines all the advantages described above, without including the associated disadvantages.

[0010] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] In a first aspect the invention concerns an improved panel for wall construction, comprising: a. a substantially flat, internal frame comprising at least two longitudinal profiles and at least two transverse profiles, the longitudinal and transverse profiles being perpendicular to each other and lying in one plane, wherein the frame comprises a bottom, a top and two sides, wherein the longitudinal profiles extend along the sides, and at least two of the transverse profiles extend along the bottom and the top; b. a first plate attached to the frame on a first side, comprising a top, a bottom and two sides, wherein the first plate optionally extends relative to the frame at the top, bottom and preferably at the sides of the frame; c. a second plate attached to the frame on a second side, opposite to the first side, comprising a top, a bottom and two sides, wherein the second plate optionally extends relative to the frame at the top and bottom (and preferably at the sides) of the frame, and the first plate is symmetrical with the second plate relative to the frame; d. an elongated upper alignment strip suitable to be provided at the top of the frame and preferably between the first and the second plate, and to be attached to the top of the frame and more preferably to the first and the second plate; e. an elongated lower alignment strip suitable to be provided at the bottom of the frame and preferably at least partially between the first and the second plate, and to be attached to the bottom of the frame and more preferably to the first and the second plate; f. an elongated support strip, suitable for providing at the bottom of the lower alignment strip;

[0012] The lower alignment strip extends with a first end beyond a side of the first and second plate, wherein the lower alignment strip at the second end comprises a recess dimensioned to receive the first end.

[0013] The upper alignment strip is provided with a first coupling element at a first end and a second coupling element at the second end, wherein the first coupling element extends beyond a side of the first and second plates, and the second coupling element extends to near the opposite side of the first and second plates, and wherein the first coupling element is positioned and configured to hook into a second coupling element. The upper alignment strip or the top strip (if present) and the support strip or the lower alignment strip include a groove along their length, at the front and optionally at the rear, which groove is suitable for holding a thickened hem of a canvas. In this way, canvases can easily be hung on the panel in a way that ensures correct alignment.

[0014] In a second aspect, the invention concerns an assembly of several panels according to the first aspect, wherein the first coupling elements of a first of the panels are suitable for hooking into the second coupling element of another of the panels, and wherein the protrusion of the first of the panels or the other of the panels is thereby received in the recess of the other of the panels or the first of the panels.

[0015] In a further aspect, the invention concerns the use of the panels and assemblies for constructing panel walls, in particular for stand construction, but also for temporary room configurations.

[0016] DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0017] Figure 1 shows a configuration of a wall forming a corner, consisting of two rows of panels attached to each other.

[0018] Figure 2 shows a coupling between two adjacent panels according to the invention.

[0019] Figure 3 shows an upper alignment strip.

[0020] Figure 4 shows an upper corner alignment strip.

[0021] Figure 5 shows a lower alignment strip.

[0022] Figure 6-7 show a top strip.

[0023] Figures 8-9 show a support strip.

[0024] Figure 10 shows the lower corner alignment strip.

[0025] Figure 11 shows a lateral alignment strip.

[0026] Figure 12 shows another lateral alignment strip.

[0027] Figure 13 shows a corner support strip.

[0028] Figure 14 shows a corner top strip.

[0029] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in the description of the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meanings as commonly understood by a person skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. For a better understanding of the description of the invention, the following terms are explained explicitly. In this document, "a" and "the" refer to both the singular and the plural, unless the context presupposes otherwise. For example, "a segment" means one or more segments.

[0031] When the term "around" or "about" is used in this document with a measurable quantity, a parameter, a duration or moment, and the like, then variations are meant of approx. 20% or less, preferably approx. 10% or less, more preferably approx. 5% or less, even more preferably approx. 1% or less, and even more preferably approx. 0.1% or less than and of the quoted value, insofar as such variations are applicable in the described invention. However, this must be understood to mean that the value of the magnitude where the term "approximately" or "around" is used, is itself specifically disclosed.

[0032] The terms "comprise," "comprising," "consist of," "consisting of," "provided with," "have," "having," "include," "including," "contain," "containing" are synonyms and are inclusive or open terms that indicate the presence of what follows, and which do not exclude or prevent the presence of other components, characteristics, elements, members, steps, as known from or disclosed in the prior art.

[0033] Quoting numeric intervals by the endpoints includes all integers, fractions, and / or real numbers between the endpoints, including those endpoints.

[0034] In a first aspect, the invention concerns a panel for wall construction, comprising a substantially flat, internal frame comprising at least two longitudinal profiles and at least two transverse profiles, the longitudinal and transverse profiles being perpendicular to each other and lying in one plane, wherein the frame comprises a bottom, a top and two sides, wherein the longitudinal profiles extend along the sides, and at least two of the transverse profiles extend along the bottom and the top.

[0035] The frame is typically constructed as a rectangular, hollow structure defined by an outer frame (two horizontal or longitudinal and two vertical or transverse profiles) and any internal reinforcements (additional longitudinal or transverse profiles acting as ribs).

[0036] A first plate is attached to a first side of the frame. The first plate includes a top, a bottom and two sides, wherein the first plate optionally extends relative to the frame at the top, bottom and preferably also at the sides of the frame. A second plate is attached to the opposite second side, the second plate comprising a top, a bottom and two sides, wherein the second plate optionally extends relative to the frame at the top and bottom (and preferably also at the sides) of the frame, and the first plate is symmetrical with the second plate relative to the frame. This produces recesses on certain edges around the frame and between the two plates. The plates are also typically rectangular. Furthermore, the panel comprises an elongated upper alignment strip suitable to be provided at the top of the frame and preferably between the first and the second plate, and to be attached to the top of the frame and more preferably to the first and the second plate, and an elongated lower alignment strip suitable to be provided at the bottom of the frame and preferably at least partially between the first and the second plate, and to be attached to the bottom of the frame and more preferably to the first and the second plate.

[0037] The lower alignment strip extends with a first end beyond a side of the first and second plate, wherein the lower alignment strip at the second end comprises a recess dimensioned to receive the first end.

[0038] The lower alignment strip preferably has a comparable length to the width of the plates. The upper alignment strip is provided with a first coupling element at a first end and a second coupling element at the second end, wherein the first coupling element extends beyond a side of the first and second plates, and the second coupling element extends to near the opposite side of the first and second plates, and wherein the first coupling element is positioned and configured to hook into a second coupling element.

[0039] The upper alignment strip preferably has a comparable length to the width of the plates. The upper alignment strip and / or the top strip (if present) and the support strip or lower alignment strip include a groove along their length, at the front and optionally at the rear, which groove is suitable for holding a thickened hem of a canvas.

[0040] The panel according to the invention allows it to be set up very simply and modularly, without the need for tools, and also allows very correct alignment of successive panels, which is independent of the substrate.

[0041] The reason for this is the use of the support strips that serve to connect panels in a way that they are automatically correctly aligned and leveled. In addition, these also allow the panels to be reused, because they can be detached again from the panel, just like the plates from the frame, so that the panel can be completely reduced to basic components and rebuilt as desired.

[0042] The first and second coupling elements of panels that are coupled together hook into each other, so that they can be anchored by lifting one coupling element above the other and inserting it into it, so that panels that are coupled automatically have the correct height relative to each other (are leveled), and so that the protrusion automatically ends up in the recess when the panels are pushed together over the entire length.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the panel comprises one or more elongated lateral alignment strips, suitable to be provided on a first side of the frame and optionally between the first and the second plate, and to be attached to the first side of the frame and optionally to the first and the second plate. The lateral alignment strip extends at least partially relative to the plates on the first side of the plates for at least 25%, preferably at least 50%, and more preferably at least 75% of the length of the first side of the plates, wherein the distance over which the lateral alignment strip extends relative to the plates substantially corresponds to the distance between the second side of the frame and the second side of the plates.

[0044] This additional advantage ensures, on the one hand, an even more consistent alignment between plates, but also an anchoring and strengthening of the plates with each other. Because the lateral strips protrude over the same length as the recess recedes inward, panels come to lie "flush" against each other, where the lateral strip of one panel rests against the frame of the adjacent strip and the two panels thus fit neatly together.

[0045] Preferably, the lateral strip extends with respect to the side over the entire side of the plate, so that the adjacent panels optimally support each other.

[0046] In a possible embodiment, the panel comprises a second set of one or more elongated lateral alignment strips to be provided on the second side of the frame and optionally between the first and second plates, like the above lateral alignment strips.

[0047] In an alternative embodiment, the frame extends to the sides of the plate, and no lateral alignment is present or necessary, and the frames of adjacent panels come to rest against each other. In these cases, the lateral alignment strips and / or side strips are attached directly to the frame, but not on / to the plates.

[0048] In an alternative embodiment, the frame extends to the top and / or bottom of the plate, and the upper and / or lower alignment strips are attached directly to the frame and no longer on / to the plates.

[0049] Preferably, both previous embodiments are combined.

[0050] In a preferred embodiment, the lower alignment strip is provided with a protrusion at the first end, wherein the protrusion extends beyond the side of the first and second plates, and extends from the top of the first end of the lower alignment strip, and preferably wherein the protrusion is tapered.

[0051] The recess is provided at the second end, directly under the bottom of the frame, wherein the recess has a depth relative to the nearest side of the first and second plates that substantially corresponds to the distance over which the protrusion extends relative to the nearest side of the first and second plates. The protrusion and the recess ensure that the successive panels are correctly aligned, have the same height position, and reinforce each other's position.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the alignment strips are attached to the frame by releasable connections, preferably by nut-bolt couplings such as e.g. rampa nuts.

[0053] In a preferred embodiment, the upper alignment strip further comprises an elongated top strip, suitable for provision on top of the upper alignment strip at the top of the frame and optionally between the first and second plates, serving as a finish as well as to hold the canvas. The top strip can be attached to the upper alignment strip and optionally to the first and second plates with a releasable coupling, such as with nuts and bolts, e.g., via rampa nuts, wherein the top strip comprises a recess at the ends positioned above the coupling elements. The top strip has a similar shape to the lower alignment strip (without protrusion and recess at the top at the ends). In this way, the lower alignment strip can also be coupled in the same way as for a top strip to the upper alignment strip of an underlying panel, in order to build multiple layers of panels.

[0054] The upper alignment strip serves as a base on which an upper panel can be attached to a lower panel, to obtain a higher aggregated panel. The upper alignment strip is provided in the position where a lower alignment strip is normally provided at the upper panel, and is thus connected (again via a releasable coupling, such as with nuts and bolts, e.g. rampa nuts) to the frame of the upper panel (and optionally to the plates thereof). This again ensures the correct connection.

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the support strip or the lower alignment strip, preferably the support strip, is provided with a groove on the front and / or rear, which groove runs over the length of the lower alignment strip or support strip, and the groove is suitable for receiving and retaining therein a thickened hem of a canvas.

[0056] The top strip or upper alignment strip is herein provided with a groove on the front and / or rear, which groove runs over the length of the top strip or upper alignment strip, and the groove is suitable for receiving and retaining therein a thickened hem of a canvas.

[0057] By providing the strips with grooves to hold a thickened hem, the panel is ideal for supporting a canvas.

[0058] Disadvantages of known systems that work with canvases are that alignment of adjacent panels is crucial and usually very difficult to ensure that larger canvases (covering multiple panels) can be attached correctly, and that with multiple smaller canvases, they connect correctly to each other. The current system solves this precisely because the strips ensure both alignment of the panels as well as holding the canvases in place.

[0059] This way you can perfectly check how the canvases are retained and if they are correctly positioned in relation to subsequent canvases or other elements.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the panel comprises one or more elongated side strips, the side strip suitable for being provided on a side of the frame and optionally between the first and the second plate, and for being attached to the side of the frame and optionally to the first and the second plate, the side strip comprising a groove at the front and / or rear, which groove runs along the length of the side strip.

[0061] Preferably, the grooves comprise a perpendicular branch at at least one end, preferably at both, to the bottom of the upper alignment strip or the top strip, and to the top of the support strip or lower alignment strip. Optionally, the groove of the side strip, when attached to the panel, connects to the branches of the lower alignment strip or support strip and of the upper alignment strip or top strip.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the support strip comprises two or more height-adjustable feet on the underside thereof. These allow you to respond to uneven or stepped surfaces, where height differences are possible.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the alignment strips, top strips and support strips are constructed from different layers using dowels. As indicated, this ensures that the mutual positioning of the elements of the panel are perfectly known and allows additional anchoring using glue or other things once the elements are in position, and deconstruction is very simple.

[0064] In a preferred embodiment, the first coupling element is hook-shaped with the opening directed downwards, and the second coupling element is hook-shaped with the opening directed upwards. In this way, coupling elements of adjacent panels can be coupled together. Hooking in also offers the advantage that when the panels are brought together (after hooking in), the protrusion automatically rotates into the recess of the adjacent panel and is secured therein.

[0065] Dimensions and material choices may vary depending on the requirements of a specific application. For example, very small panels can be opted for that are easy to transport and manipulate, or larger ones that take less time to set up. Dimensions of a panel are thus provided in a range. For the width, the lower limit is preferably at least 30 cm, more preferably at least 45 cm, more preferably at least 45 cm, even more preferably at least 50 cm or even 55 cm. Most preferably, the width is approximately 60 cm, but a higher lower limit in width is certainly possible, such as 70 cm, 80 cm, 90 cm, 100 cm, 120 cm or more.

[0066] The upper limit is typically linked to a practical limit on manipulability (that it can be manipulated by hand). The maximum width is therefore preferably 150 cm, more preferably 135 cm, even more preferably 120 cm, or even 105 cm. Even more preferably, the maximum width is 90 cm, even more preferably 80 cm, even more preferably 70 cm and most preferably the width is therefore approximately 60 cm.

[0067] For the length, the lower limit is preferably at least 90 cm, more preferably at least 100 cm, more preferably at least 105 cm, even more preferably at least 110 cm or even 115 cm. Most preferably, the length is approximately 120 cm, but a higher lower limit in length is certainly possible, such as 140 cm, 160 cm, 180 cm, 210 cm, 240 cm or more. The upper limit is typically linked to a practical limit on manipulability (that it can be manipulated by hand). The maximum length is therefore preferably 300 cm, more preferably 240 cm, even more preferably 210 cm, or even 180 cm. Even more preferably, the maximum length is 160 cm, even more preferably 140 cm, even more preferably 130 cm and most preferably the length is therefore approximately 120 cm. Preferably, the thickness of the panel is between 10 mm and 100 mm, preferably between 15 mm and 75 mm, more preferably between 20 mm and 50 mm.

[0068] The frame, and therefore the panel itself, is substantially hollow, making the panel very light and easy to manipulate. Preferably, at least 75%, more preferably even at least 85% or even 95% of the frame is hollow.

[0069] The strips are preferably substantially solid, and do not contain any voids, other than any holes for anchoring with other elements such as dowels.

[0070] In a preferred embodiment, the strips are composed of multiple layers, which lie parallel to the plates when mounted in the panel. The inner layer (or layers) contains the recesses, coupling elements (or openings therefor) and the like, while the outer layers are typically rectangular and extend around the recesses and openings for coupling elements (or even the coupling elements themselves), for easy coupling with the plates and greater strength, for example to receive the protrusion in a recess and to limit it laterally.

[0071] In a preferred embodiment, the first coupling element is curved in a first sense around an axis perpendicular to the panel, and wherein the first coupling element extends transversely beyond one of the transverse ends of the plates over a distance "A". The second coupling element is curved around the axis perpendicular to the panel in the first sense and is positioned transversely inward with respect to the other transverse end of the plates over a distance "B". The distances "A" and "B" are substantially the same, and the coupling elements are located at substantially the same height along the longitudinal axis.

[0072] The first coupling element is hook-shaped with the opening of the hook oriented in a first sense along the longitudinal axis, and the second coupling element is hook-shaped with the opening of the hook oriented in a second sense, opposite the first sense, along the longitudinal axis. 'Opening of a hook-shaped element' here refers to the concave side of the hook, as with the letter 'C' the opening would point to the right, or as with the letter 'U' it would point upwards.

[0073] In the case of the panels, the openings of the coupling elements will be oriented substantially up and down respectively.

[0074] With the above configuration it is possible to lift a panel and thus couple the coupling element of the panel to the other coupling element of another panel. Thus a part of the coupling element of the first-mentioned panel may have an end in the shape of "A", with the coupling element of the other panel having a shape like "U" at the end. By sliding the first from above into the second, they can no longer slide apart without deliberately lifting the panels apart. Because the anchoring takes place on the basis of gravity, it is also easy to detach the panels from each other again through a deliberate action. Due to the shape and positioning of the hooks, the panels are pulled towards each other by gravity. The shape of the hooks is such that the panels can be put together and taken apart with a slightly pivoting movement. This significantly improves the ergonomics of placing and removing the panels.

[0075] In normal use of such wall panels, the main forces acting upon them are horizontal, and it is especially important that the panels remain aligned and abut each other. This is guaranteed by the above measures. In addition, by dimensioning the coupling elements in such a way, it can be guaranteed that the panels connect in a predictable manner, which makes it possible to provide the panels with a print or other visual material that extends over several panels.

[0076] In a preferred embodiment, the lateral alignment strips have grooves along their length, at the front and optionally at the back. These grooves are also suitable for receiving and retaining a thickened hem of a canvas. By providing the lateral alignment strips, the canvases can also be laterally retained and stretched. Again, as with the upper alignment strips, the lateral alignment strips serve both for coupling with adjacent strips, and to hold a canvas at the ends of a panel wall. In certain embodiments, the lateral alignment strips and the side strips are the same part.

[0077] In a preferred embodiment, the lower alignment strip is configured to be connected to the upper alignment strip of another panel.

[0078] In a second aspect, the invention concerns an assembly of two or more panels according to the first aspect of the invention, which are specifically designed to be connected to each other in an easily detachable manner, wherein the coupling elements of the adjacent panels hook into each other, and the protrusion is thereby provided in the recess.

[0079] Additional advantages result from the use of the upper alignment strips as a basis for additional base panels that can be placed on top of a lower layer of panels. The base panels no longer include a top strip but use the upper alignment strip of the layer of panels below. Otherwise, these base panels are constructed similarly to the others, namely an internal frame with (slightly protruding) first and second plates on either side.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the assembly comprises one or more corner panels for connecting two of the panels. The corner panel comprises a top and a bottom that create a corner, and two sides, wherein the corner panel at the top comprises an upper corner alignment strip with a first or second coupling element at one end and a first esecond coupling element at the other end, preferably each time a first or a second coupling element and more preferably each time a second coupling element suitable for hooking a first coupling element thereon. The corner panel comprises a lower corner alignment strip on the underside with a recess at the first and second ends that is suitable for receiving the protrusion of a lower alignment strip of the panels.

[0081] The corner panels provide a connection between two walls in a corner. This angle is often 90°, but can also be 45°, 60°, or other angles depending on the circumstances. The sides of the corner panel are constructed substantially the same as those of the 'regular' panels, also with coupling elements on the upper corner alignment strip, which is similar to the upper alignment strip, but with a corner. The upper corner alignment strip preferably uses the same type of coupling element twice, and preferably a second coupling element, to make the coupling easier. The lower corner alignment strip is provided with a recess at both ends for this purpose but can alternatively be provided with a protrusion and a recess, or even protrusions at both ends. In practice, the panels have the first coupling elements on the side where the protrusion is provided, and the second coupling elements on the side where the recess is provided. This ensures that the connection is always possible. In the case of the corner panels, it is therefore preferable to connect to the side with the first coupling elements and the protrusion.

[0082] In a preferred embodiment, the upper corner alignment strip comprises a corner top strip suitable for provision and attachment above the upper corner alignment strip, preferably with a releasable nut-bolt coupling, e.g., via rampa nuts, wherein the corner top strip comprises a recess positioned above the coupling elements of the upper corner alignment strip. The recess provides space for the coupling elements of adjacent panels to hook into the coupling elements. The corner top strip in turn serves as a base / lower alignment strip for an overlying corner panel.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the assembly comprises a corner support strip, wherein the corner support strip or lower corner alignment strip comprises a groove at both ends at the front and optionally at the rear, wherein the groove is suitable for receiving and retaining therein a thickened hem of a canvas. The upper corner alignment strip or the corner top strip (preferably the corner top strip) comprises at both ends a groove at the front and optionally at the rear, wherein the groove is suitable for receiving and retaining therein a thickened hem of a canvas.

[0084] The corner panel includes two panel attachments configured for coupling with a side of the panels of substantially the same length as the plates, and coupled together at an angle, wherein the panel attachments at the front and optionally at the rear comprise a groove that extends over the length of the panel attachments.

[0085] The groove of the first end of the corner support strip is preferably L-shaped and extends from a first side of the corner panel over a first panel attachment, and connects to the groove of the first panel attachment at the bottom, wherein the groove of the first end of the upper corner alignment strip is preferably L-shaped and extends from the first side of the corner panel over the first panel attachment, and connects to the groove of the first panel attachment at the top.

[0086] The groove of the second end of the corner support strip is preferably L-shaped and extends from a second side of the corner panel over the second panel attachment, and connects to the groove of the second panel attachment at the bottom, wherein the groove of the second end of the upper corner alignment strip is preferably L-shaped and extends from the second side of the corner panel over the second panel attachment, and connects to the groove of the second panel attachment at the top. Note that the L-shaped groove can be obtained by providing a + shaped groove.

[0087] In what follows, the invention is described by way of non-limiting examples illustrating the invention, and which are not intended to and should not be interpreted as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0088] EXAMPLES

[0089] EXAMPLE 1 :

[0090] Figure 1 shows the general construction of a number of panels (1) combined in a corner configuration. Here are provided two sets of two rows of panels, one above the other, with each time 4 panels per row, and coupled with two corner panels that are also coupled in two rows, one above the other. They are equipped with top strips, support strips and side strips all around.

[0091] The panels of the bottom row are provided with lower alignment strips (9) - invisible here - that hook into each other, with a support strip (2) underneath, which has a groove (32) for attaching a canvas in. The panels of the top row are provided with a top strip (3, 12) at the top, as well as equipped with a groove (19) for attaching a canvas in. Side strips (4, 24, 26) are provided at the lateral ends of the corner configuration, each provided with a groove (25, 27) for attaching a canvas in. The grooves of the side strips, the support strip and the top strip connect to each other by means of a branch (28) of the groove. This branch can be provided in the side strips and / or in the lower alignment strip and top strip.

[0092] The two rows of panels are connected using (invisible here) upper alignment strips and top strips, which are attached to both the bottom row (frame and plates) and the top row (frame and optional plates) of panels.

[0093] The corner panels each include two panel attachments (5) that are connected to a corner profile. The corner panels have a similar free side as the regular panels and connect thereto in the same way that the panels are connected to each other, namely using a lateral alignment strip (15). The panel attachments have grooves along their length into which the thickened hem of a canvas can be attached.

[0094] At the top of the corner panels, upper and lower corner alignment strips with corner top strip (7), and a corner support strip (6) are provided. The lower corner alignment strips (23) include a recess into which the protrusion of an adjacent panel fits, while the upper alignment strips (17) have a second coupling element provided in the recess (16) into which the first coupling element of the adjacent panel can hook.

[0095] These corner support strips and corner top strips are provided with grooves (31) that have an L-shape, and thus connect to the groove of the panel attachments and to the groove of the (upper or lower alignment strip or) support strip or top strip of the panel to which the corner panel connects.

[0096] EXAMPLE 2:

[0097] Figure 2 shows how two adjacent panels can be coupled together. The panels are constructed from an internal frame (8) with two plates on either side. Both panels have a lower alignment strip (9), an upper alignment strip (10) and a top strip (12). The right-hand panel is hooked with its first coupling element (11) to the second coupling element of the left-hand panel, so that the top sides are already correctly aligned and automatically have the correct relative height. The right-hand panel is then rotated against the left-hand panel over the coupled coupling elements, so that the protrusion

[0098] (13) of the lower alignment strip of the right-hand panel is fitted into the recess (14) of the lower alignment strip of the left-hand panel.

[0099] In addition, there is also a side strip or lateral alignment strip (15) on the right side of the left-hand panel, which fits in the space on the left side of the right-hand panel, on the outside between the frame and the two plates.

[0100] EXAMPLE 3:

[0101] The subsequent Figures show the individual component sub-profiles of the panel or corner panel according to the invention.

[0102] Figure 3 shows a (middle part of the) upper alignment strip (10), at both ends provided with a recess (16) for the coupling element.

[0103] Figure 4 shows a (middle part of the) upper corner alignment strip (17), also provided with a recess (16) for the coupling element.

[0104] Figure 5 shows a (middle part of the) lower alignment strip (9), provided with a recess

[0105] (14) at one end and with a protrusion (13) at the opposite end.

[0106] Figures 6-7 show a top strip (12) with two recesses (18) at the bottom to leave space for the coupling elements, with Figure 6 showing a middle layer, and Figure 7 showing an embodiment with a covering layer on either side of the middle layer, wherein the covering layer is provided with the groove (19) along its length (with the groove possibly extending into the middle layer). The covering layers are substantially rectangular. The middle layer extends at the bottom (20) beyond the covering layers. Figures 8-9 show a support strip (21), provided with recesses (22) for providing the (adjustable) feet. The lower alignment strip is attached to the support strip via a tongue- and-groove connection, wherein an additional groove of the support strip receives the protruding middle layer (20) of the lower alignment strip.

[0107] Figure 10 shows the lower corner alignment strip (23), which has a recess in which the protrusion of an adjacent panel is received.

[0108] Figure 11 shows a lateral alignment strip (24), provided with a groove (25) along its length, which branches perpendicularly (28) to the sides at an end, connecting with a groove of another strip.

[0109] Figure 12 shows another lateral alignment strip (26), with a branch (28) at both ends. Here the branch is closer to the end at one end than at the other end.

[0110] Figure 13 shows a corner support strip (29), provided with an L-shaped groove (31) for receiving a canvas, which connects to the groove of an adjacent panel on the one hand, and to the panel attachments of the corner panel on the other. The corner support strip has an L-shaped middle layer and two covering layers on either side, wherein the groove extends through the covering layer into the middle layer. The L-shaped middle layer creates a recess with which the corner support strip can be connected to the panel attachment, which has a protrusion that fits into the recess.

[0111] Figure 14 shows a corner top strip (30), also provided with an L-shaped groove (31) for receiving a canvas, which connects to the groove of an adjacent panel on the one hand, and to the panel attachments of the corner panel on the other. The corner top strip has an L-shaped middle layer and two covering layers on either side, wherein the groove extends through the covering layer into the middle layer. The L-shaped middle layer creates a protrusion with which the corner top strip can be connected to the panel attachment, which has a recess into which the protrusion fits.

[0112] The present invention should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described above and certain modifications or changes may be added to the examples described without having to re-evaluate the appended claims. For example, the present invention has been described with reference to wall construction, for example for exhibition stands, but it is clear that the invention can be applied to, for example, temporary storage areas or indoor configurations of spaces.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A panel for wall construction, the panel comprising: a. a substantially flat, internal frame comprising at least two longitudinal profiles and at least two transverse profiles, the longitudinal and transverse profiles being perpendicular to each other and lying in one plane, wherein the frame comprises a bottom, a top and two sides, wherein the longitudinal profiles extend along the sides, and at least two of the transverse profiles extend along the bottom and the top; b. a first plate attached to the frame on a first side, comprising a top, a bottom and two sides, wherein the first plate optionally extends relative to the frame at least at the top and bottom of the frame, and preferably at the sides; c. a second plate attached to the frame on a second side, opposite to the first side, comprising a top, a bottom and two sides, wherein the second plate optionally extends relative to the frame at least at the top and bottom of the frame, and preferably at the sides, and the first plate is symmetrical with the second plate relative to the frame; d. an elongated upper alignment strip suitable to be provided at the top of the frame and preferably between the first and the second plate, and to be attached to the top of the frame and more preferably to the first and the second plate; e. an elongated lower alignment strip suitable to be provided at the bottom of the frame and preferably at least partially between the first and the second plate, and to be attached to the bottom of the frame and more preferably to the first and the second plate; f. an elongated support strip, suitable for providing at the bottom of the lower alignment strip; wherein the lower alignment strip extends with a first end beyond a side of the first and second plates, and wherein the lower alignment strip at the second end comprises a recess dimensioned to receive the first end; wherein the upper alignment strip is provided with a first coupling element at a first end and a second coupling element at the second end, wherein the first coupling element extends beyond a side of the first and second plates, and the second coupling element extends to near the opposite side of the first and second plates, and wherein the first coupling element is positioned and configured to hook into a second coupling element;wherein the support strip or the lower alignment strip and the upper alignment strip or a top strip, suitable to be provided above the upper alignment strip at the top of the frame and to be attached to the upper alignment strip, comprise a groove along the length thereof, at the front and optionally at the rear, which groove is suitable for retaining a thickened hem of a canvas.

2. The panel according to the preceding claim 1, further comprising one or more elongated lateral alignment strips, wherein the first and second plates protrude at the sides relative to the frame, and wherein the lateral alignment strips are adapted to be provided on a first side of the frame and between the first and the second plates, and to be attached to the first side of the frame and to the first and the second plates, wherein the lateral alignment strip protrudes at least partially with respect to the plates on the first side of the plates for at least 25%, preferably at least 50%, and more preferably at least 75% of the length of the first side of the plates, wherein the distance over which the lateral alignment strip extends relative to the plates substantially corresponds to the distance between the second side of the frame and the second side of the plates, preferably comprising one or more additional elongated lateral alignment strips for the second side of the panel.

3. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 1 or 2, wherein the lower alignment strip is provided with a protrusion at the first end, wherein the protrusion extends beyond the side of the first and second plates, and extends from the top of the first end of the lower alignment strip, and preferably wherein the protrusion is tapered, wherein the recess is provided at the second end, directly under the bottom of the frame, wherein the recess has a depth relative to the nearest side of the first and second plates that substantially corresponds to the distance over which the protrusion extends relative to the nearest side of the first and second plates.

4. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 3, wherein the alignment strips are attached to the first and second plates by a releasable nut-bolt coupling, preferably via rampa nuts.

5. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 4, wherein the alignment strips are attached to the frame by a releasable nut-bolt coupling, preferably via rampa nuts.

6. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 5, wherein the upper alignment strip comprises an elongated top strip, suitable to be provided above the upper alignment strip at the top of the frame and to be attached to the upper alignment strip, preferably attachable to the upper alignment strip with a releasable nut-bolt coupling, preferably via rampa nuts, wherein the top strip comprises a recess at the ends positioned above the coupling elements.

7. The panel according to the preceding claim 6, wherein the support strip or lower alignment strip is provided with a groove on the front and rear, which groove runs over the length of the support strip or lower alignment strip, and the groove is suitable for receiving and retaining therein a thickened hem of a canvas; wherein the top strip or upper alignment strip is provided with a groove on the front and rear, which groove runs over the length of the top strip or upper alignment strip, and the groove is suitable for receiving and retaining therein a thickened hem of a canvas.

8. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 7, wherein the panel further comprises one or more elongated side strips, the side strip suitable to be provided on a side of the frame and preferably between the first and the second plate, and to be attached to the side of the frame and more preferably to the first and the second plate, the side strip comprising a groove at the front and / or rear, which groove runs along the length of the side strip; preferably wherein the grooves further comprise a perpendicular branch at at least one end, to the bottom of the upper alignment strip or the top strip, and to the top of the support strip or lower alignment strip; and wherein the groove of the side strip, when attached to the panel, preferably via rampa nuts, connects to the branches of the support strip and of the upper alignment strip or top strip.

9. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 8, wherein the support strip is provided with two or more height-adjustable feet at the bottom.

10. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 9, wherein the lower alignment strip is configured to be connected to the upper alignment strip of another panel according to the preceding claims.

11. The panel according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 10, wherein the first coupling element is hook-shaped with the opening directed downwards, andwherein the second coupling element is hook-shaped with the opening directed upwards.

12. An assembly of two or more panels according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 11, wherein the first coupling elements of a first of the panels are suitable for hooking into the second coupling element of another of the panels, and wherein the protrusion of the first of the panels or the other of the panels is thereby received in the recess of the other of the panels or the first of the panels.

13. The assembly of two or more panels according to any of the preceding claims 1 to 11, preferably according to the preceding claim 12, further comprising a corner panel for connecting two of the panels, the corner panel comprising a top and a bottom that form a corner, and two sides, wherein the corner panel at the top comprises an upper corner alignment strip with a first or second coupling element at one end and a first or second coupling element at the other end, preferably each time a first or a second coupling element and more preferably each time a second coupling element suitable for hooking a first coupling element thereon; wherein the corner panel at the bottom comprises a lower corner alignment strip with a recess at the first and second ends suitable for receiving the protrusion of a lower alignment strip of the panels.

14. The assembly according to the preceding claim 13, further comprising a corner top strip suitable for provision and attachment above the upper corner alignment strip, wherein the corner top strip comprises a recess positioned above the coupling elements of the upper corner alignment strip.

15. The assembly according to the preceding claim 13 or 14, comprising a corner support strip, wherein the corner support strip or lower corner alignment strip is provided at both ends with a groove, at the front and optionally at the rear, and the groove is suitable for receiving and retaining therein a thickened hem of a canvas; and wherein the upper corner alignment strip or the corner top strip is provided at both ends with a groove, at the front and optionally at the rear, and the groove is suitable for receiving and retaining therein a thickened hem of a canvas; and wherein the corner panel comprises two panel attachments configured to couple with a side of the panels of substantially the same length as the plates, and coupled together at an angle, wherein the panel attachments at the frontand optionally at the rear comprise a groove that extends over the length of the panel attachments; wherein the groove of the first end of the corner support strip is L-shaped and extends from a first side of the corner panel over a first panel attachment, and connects to the groove of the first panel attachment at the bottom, and wherein the groove of the first end of the upper corner alignment strip is L-shaped and extends from the first side of the corner panel over the first panel attachment, and connects to the groove of the first panel attachment at the top; wherein the groove of the second end of the corner support strip is L-shaped and extends from a second side of the corner panel over the second panel attachment, and connects to the groove of the second panel attachment at the bottom, and wherein the groove of the second end of the upper corner alignment strip is L-shaped and extends from the second side of the corner panel over the second panel attachment, and connects to the groove of the second panel attachment at the top.

Images