Reusable modular system for exhibition stand

Abstract

Disclosed herein is a reusable modular system for exhibition stand (1), comprising a set of parts for building a floorboard structure (10) for a floor. The parts comprise upper ribs (11) with fitting slots (111) on the lower edge thereof; and lower ribs (12) with fitting slots (121) on the upper edge thereof; wherein the upper ribs (11) and the lower ribs (12) are configured to be assembled to form polygons. The system (1) further comprises connecting ribs (13) between polygons. Polygons may have different shapes, for example quadrilaterals. The set of parts are reusable and allows multiple different configurations, thereby improving the aesthetics and robustness of the stands.

Description

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a reusable modular system for exhibition stand. The system allows the stand for exhibitions or temporary events to be assembled and subsequently disassembled.BACKGROUND

[0002] Systems for stands for exhibitions or temporary events can be classified into two main categories according to their flexibility of construction. The first category comprises systems with prefabricated and standardized elements, for example, aluminium cross members, with predetermined shapes and sizes, and their assembly is simple. Due to these features, systems in this category are usually cost-effective. However, due to their standard appearance, it is difficult to stand out among all the stands, and sometimes this is not the best option to attract more visitors.

[0003] For this reason, with a larger budget, systems in the second category are chosen, which are designed according to the specific requirements of each exhibitor. Although these structures are more effective in capturing the attention of visitors, they require a unique design for each stand which often involves the use of large and heavy structural elements. During construction, the elements of the system are often cut to size and assembled using, for example, screws or nails. These characteristics make subsequent recycling difficult. As a result, the manufacturing and shipping costs of the structural elements are higher as compared to systems in the first category, and recycling is complex, making them less sustainable.

[0004] For all these reasons, it would be desirable to develop a new type of reusable system for stands for exhibitions or temporary events that combines modularity with greater configuration flexibility.SUMMARY

[0005] A reusable modular system for exhibition stand is provided, comprising a set of parts, so that it is reusable and allows multiple different configurations.

[0006] According to the present disclosure, the reusable modular system for exhibition stand comprises a set of parts for building a floorboard structure for a floor. The parts comprise upper ribs with fitting slots on the lower edge thereof, and lower ribs with fitting slots on the upper edge thereof. The upper and lower ribs are configured to be assembled to form polygons, and the system further comprises connecting ribs between polygons.

[0007] When assembling the floorboard structure, it is possible to assemble several pairs of upper and lower ribs, forming two or more polygons. These polygons can be attached to each other through the connecting ribs, allowing the structure to be extended over any surface. In this way, a standard size of ribs of each type can be used, thus reducing manufacturing and shipping costs. In addition, the ribs can be recycled and reused in other floors, making this floorboard structure more sustainable as compared to structures made of a single piece. The structure also adapts easily to different surface sizes and shapes, without being limited to a conventional rectangular design; the pattern, shape and size of the polygons can be adjusted as required.

[0008] On the other hand, the connecting ribs make it possible to easily and simply attach all the assembled polygons, avoiding external fastening systems that complicate or increase the cost for attaching the polygons. In addition, since the polygons are assembled together, the rigidity and stability of the floor is improved.

[0009] Polygons may have different shapes, including hexagons, octagons or, as shown in the following examples, quadrilaterals.

[0010] In one example, each quadrilateral may comprise two upper ribs and two lower ribs assembled to form the perimeter of the quadrilateral.

[0011] In some examples, each quadrilateral further comprises a plurality of additional upper ribs and lower ribs assembled inside the perimeter of the quadrilateral to form an array of internal quadrilaterals. The internal quadrilaterals further may be coupled with each other by the connecting ribs.

[0012] Therefore, the upper ribs and lower ribs may be of different lengths, for example from a standard length (e.g. 60 cm) to form a quadrilateral of standard size, to greater lengths, for example between two and four times the standard length. This configuration allows the assembly of additional upper and lower ribs to form an array of internal quadrilaterals, wherein the internal quadrilaterals may be coupled with each other by the connecting ribs to ensure greater rigidity. Consequently, the use of longer upper and lower ribs to form an array of internal quadrilaterals allows achieving a more stable floorboard structure, as well as a quicker and easier assembly and disassembly thereof.

[0013] In one example, the upper ribs and the lower ribs may comprise one or more fitting notches on one edge thereof, and the connecting ribs may comprise two notches on one edge thereof. The notches of the connecting ribs are configured to be fitted into the fitting notches of the upper ribs and the fitting notches of the lower ribs, so that two adjacent quadrilaterals are coupled with each other by the connecting ribs.

[0014] In this way, for example, when assembling two quadrilaterals with upper and lower ribs, the positions of the already assembled quadrilaterals can be fixed by fitting the two notches of a connecting rib, one to each of the respective on or more fitting notches of two upper or lower ribs indistinctly. This makes it possible to attach several quadrilaterals and extend the floorboard structure to the desired size, easily and at low cost. In addition, the same type of connecting ribs can be used to attach the same quadrilateral to different adjacent quadrilaterals, which further strengthens the stability of the resulting floorboard structure. For example, the quadrilateral can become attached to up to four adjacent quadrilaterals of the same size by fitting connecting ribs on each side of the same quadrilateral.

[0015] According to one example, the upper ribs and the lower ribs may further comprise a passage recess, e.g. for the passage of cables, on the edge intended to rest on the floor, when the ribs are mounted forming a quadrilateral. In this way, the cables are not visible, which not only improves aesthetics but, more importantly, prevents the public from tripping over the cables or suffering an electric shock.

[0016] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise floor panels comprising two protrusions at opposite corners of the underside thereof. In this way, each floor panel can be assembled to a quadrilateral of the floorboard structure to form the stand floor. The protrusions prevent lateral movements of the floor panels on the stand floor surface.

[0017] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise columns with U-shaped slots and cross members with fitting slots in a lower edge thereof. The U-shaped slots are formed with a base furthest away from the floor and two side branches. The cross members are configured to be assembled with the columns by assembling the fitting slots of the cross members into the side branches, thereby forming frames to form wall structures of the stand in a simple manner.

[0018] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise frame connecting members configured to be fitted into the bases of U-shaped slots for connecting columns of frames adjacent to each other.

[0019] In examples, the frame connecting members may comprise connecting slots, and the system may further comprise locking members configured to be fitted into the connecting slots for locking the connection of columns of frames adjacent to each other. When the columns are connected by the connecting members and secured with the locking members, the frames are stably connected.

[0020] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise column connecting members Said connecting members may comprise upper fitting slots on the upper edge thereof and lower fitting slots on the lower edge thereof, configured for connecting columns to each other in a vertical direction.

[0021] In some examples, to achieve a tight connection, the columns may comprise fitting slots at the lower end thereof configured to be fitted into the upper fitting slots of the column connecting members, and fitting slots at the upper end thereof configured to be fitted into the lower fitting slots of the column connecting members. In this way, connection between the columns located above and below is ensured by the column connecting members, connecting them so as to extend the system in the vertical direction.

[0022] In examples, in order to improve the connection between columns in the vertical direction, the columns may further comprise recesses at the lower end thereof and protrusions at the upper end thereof, wherein the recesses are configured to be fitted into the protrusions between adjacent columns in a vertical direction.

[0023] In one example, to form curved frames, the reusable modular system further may comprise curved connecting members comprising protrusions at respective opposite ends thereof, and additional columns comprising recesses at respective lateral edges thereof. The protrusions are configured to be assembled with the recesses to form curved frames. Therefore, it is possible to obtain different configurations of wall structures, for example to form curved corners between two straight frames or even to form sinuous walls, i.e. joining two or more curved frames.

[0024] In examples, the additional columns to form curved frames may comprise fitting slots at the lower end thereof configured to be fitted into the upper fitting slots of the column connecting members, and fitting slots at the upper end thereof configured to be fitted into the lower fitting slots of the column connecting members, such that connecting columns to each other in a vertical direction. On the other hand, the curved connecting members further may comprise fitting slots at respective opposite ends thereof configured for receiving lateral edges of the column connecting members, thus achieving a tight connection between adjacent curved frames.

[0025] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise wall covering panels. Such wall covering panels may comprise protrusions on the rear side thereof for assembling each covering panel to the cross members, thereby forming the surfaces of the walls of the stand.

[0026] In examples, the cross members may comprise a supporting profile forming a channel configured to support the protrusions of the covering panels. The channels in the cross members and the protrusions in the wall covering panels are counter shaped so as to fit together, thus allowing the panels to be assembled to the cross members in a simple and stable manner.

[0027] In one example, in order to connect the columns to the floor, the reusable modular system further may comprise side supporting members and column-floor connecting members. The connecting members may comprise, for example, fitting slots configured to be fitted into the fitting slots of the lower end of the columns. On the other hand, the side supporting members are arranged on the floor panels and configured to support the connecting members in a stable vertical position, thereby maintaining stability of the connecting members in the lateral directions.

[0028] The above-mentioned connection ways for connecting components such as ribs, panels, columns and cross members, through fitting slots, notches and related parts, are non-destructive as compared to conventional methods using nails or screws. This allows components to be reused in their entirety without damage. Thanks to the reuse of components, higher quality materials without paint coatings, and capable of being easily adapted to different occasions can be used. This also improves the aesthetics and robustness of the stands.

[0029] Further objects, advantages and features of examples of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled from the disclosure or may be learned by practice of the disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Particular examples of the present disclosure will be described below by way of a nonlimiting example, with reference to the attached drawings, wherein: Figure 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of one example of the reusable modular system of the present disclosure; Figure 2a is a longitudinal view of one example of the upper rib; Figure 2b is a longitudinal view of a further example of the upper rib; Figure 3a is a longitudinal view of one example of the lower rib; Figure 3b is a longitudinal view of a further example of the lower rib; Figure 4a is a longitudinal view of one example of the connecting rib; Figure 4b is a longitudinal view of a further example of the connecting rib; Figure 5 is a lower plan view of a floor panel; Figure 6 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a wall structure without wall panels; Figure 7 is a longitudinal view of a cross member; Figure 8 is a longitudinal view of a column; Figure 9a is a plan view of a frame connecting member; Figure 9b is a side view of a locking member; Figure 9c is a front view of a column connecting member; Figure 9d is a front view of a column-floor connecting member; Figure 10 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a wall structure with some wall panels installed; Figure 11 is a side view of a wall structure showing the assembly of the wall panels; Figure 12 is a diagrammatic perspective view of one example of the column-floor connection; Figure 13 is a diagrammatic perspective view of another example of the reusable modular system of the present disclosure; Figure 14 is a longitudinal view of another example of the upper rib; Figure 15 is a longitudinal view of another example of the lower rib; Figure 16 is a longitudinal view of another example of the connecting rib; Figure 17 is a partial exploded view of the reusable modular system of Figure 13; Figure 18 is a plan view of a curved connecting member; Figure 19 is a longitudinal view of a column for assembling curved connecting members; Figure 20 is a plan view of an example of a wall structure including curved frames; Figure 20A is an enlarged view of a detail in Figure 20 showing the connection between curved frames; Figure 21 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a wall structure without wall panels showing a corner connection with curved frames; and Figure 22 is a diagrammatic perspective exploded view of an upper and a lower curved frames showing their assembly in a vertical direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

[0031] Figure 1 shows, by means of a diagrammatic perspective view, one example of the reusable modular system 1 according to the present description. The system 1 comprises a floorboard structure 10 for a floor. Such floorboard structure 10 comprises a number of parts: upper ribs 11, lower ribs 12, connecting ribs 13 and floor panels 15. All the parts are board shaped; the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 have their lower edges resting on the floor, while the connecting ribs 13 are arranged on two ribs, either the upper ribs 11 or the lower ribs 12. The floor panels 15 rest on the ribs and form a flat upper surface of the floorboard structure 10.

[0032] As for the connections, as shown in figure 2a, the upper ribs 11 comprise two fitting slots 111 in a lower edge thereof, near the ends, whereas figure 3a shows the lower ribs 12 comprising two fitting slots 121 in an upper edge thereof, also near the ends. When the slots 111 and 121 fit into each other in the direction shown by the arrow (see figure 1), the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 are connected. In the example shown in figure 1, a quadrilateral 14 is formed when two upper ribs 11 and two lower ribs 12 are connected together by fitting of slots 111 and 121. However, other shapes may be envisaged if a different number of upper ribs 11 or lower ribs 12 are used. For example, when three upper ribs 11 and three lower ribs 12 are used, a hexagon can be formed. Thus, the shapes are not limited only to the quadrilateral 14 shown in figure 1. Furthermore, all the quadrilaterals 14 in figure 1 are rectangles with the same size. However, other types of quadrilaterals, such as trapezoids, may also be formed using the upper and lower ribs of various sizes.

[0033] Despite the number of shapes and sizes that may be formed, a specific example, as shown in figure 1, is used, for simplicity, to explain how two quadrilaterals are connected. When multiple quadrilaterals 14 are formed, connecting ribs 13 are used to connect them. As shown in figure 4a, the connecting ribs 13 have two notches 131 on the lower edge thereof, while the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 comprise central notches 112 and 122 on the upper edges thereof, near the centre of the length thereof, as shown in figures 2a and 3a, respectively. For coupling two adjacent quadrilaterals, such as 14A and 14B, the two notches 131 of a connecting rib 13 fit into the central notches 122 of two adjacent lower ribs 12 in the direction shown by the arrow, each lower rib 12 being part of a different quadrilateral. Similarly, in order to connect two quadrilaterals, such as 14A and 14C, the notches 131 of a connecting rib 13 are coupled with the central notches 112 of two adjacent upper ribs 11 in the direction shown by the arrow, each upper rib 11 being part of a different quadrilateral. The quadrilaterals are thus assembled with each other, allowing the floorboard structure to be expanded on any surface easily.

[0034] The notches in the ribs may also be made in an alternative manner, as shown in figures 2b, 3b and 4b. In this case, the centre notches 112' in the upper ribs 11' and the centre notches 122' in the lower ribs 12' are located on the lower edge instead of the upper edge. Notches 131' in the connecting ribs 13' are located on the upper edge, allowing these notches 131' to fit into the notches 112' and 122' in the opposite direction of the arrow shown in figure 1. In other words, in this alternative example, the connecting ribs 13' are located below the upper and lower ribs 11' and 12' when assembled to form the quadrilaterals 14.

[0035] Recesses 113 in the upper ribs 11 and recesses 123 in the lower ribs 12 are shown in figure 1. Such recesses allow cables or other services to be deployed below the floorboard structure 10, once all the quadrilaterals 14 are mounted and assembled together. In figures 2a and 3a, it can be seen that the recesses are made by reducing the height of the ribs outside the areas that are supported by the floor. In the alternative example, where notches 131' are installed in the upper edge of the connecting ribs 13', recesses 132' are also provided in the lower edge, as shown in figure 4b, allowing more space for the passage of cables.

[0036] Figure 1 shows a series of floor panels 15 installed on the ribs to form a floorboard structure 10 for the floor of the system 1. Said floor panels 15, shaped like quadrilaterals in this case, are adapted to the quadrilaterals 14 formed by the ribs 11 and 12. In order to prevent the panels from sliding sideways, two protrusions 151 (not shown in the view of figure 1) are provided at opposite corners of the lower surface of the floor panels 15, as shown in figure 5. The protrusions 151 are assembled at two of the corners of each quadrilateral 14 of the floorboard structure 10, ensuring that the floor panels 15 are tightly fixed and that the floor surface of the stand is continuous. It is possible to add further protrusions in other corners, provided that prevention of lateral movement is ensured and that it is ensured that they fit correctly with the corresponding corners of the quadrilaterals. The lower surface of the panel refers to the side arranged on the underside once the panel is placed on the floorboard, with the inner surface facing the floor.

[0037] Figure 13 shows, by means of a diagrammatic perspective view, another example of the reusable modular system 1 of the present description, wherein the upper ribs 11 (see figure 14) and the lower ribs 12 (see figure 15) have a larger length in their longitudinal direction.

[0038] The upper ribs 11 and lower ribs 12 may be of different lengths, for example from a standard length "d" (e.g. 60 cm) to form a quadrilateral 14 of a standard size as described in the previous example (see e.g. figure 1, 2a and 3a), to greater lengths, e.g. between two and four times the standard length.

[0039] As can be seen in figures 13 to 15, the length of the upper ribs 11 and the length of the lower ribs 12 corresponds to four times the standard length "d", thus forming four equidistant sections. In this example, the upper ribs 11 comprises four pairs of fitting slots 111 in a lower end thereof, distributed at their respective equidistant four sections (see figure 14), whereas the lower ribs 12 comprises four pairs of fitting slots 121 in an upper edge thereof, also distributed at their respective equidistant four sections (see figure 15). When two upper ribs 11 and two lower ribs 12 are connected together by the respective pairs of fitting slots 111 and 112, the perimeter of a large quadrilateral 140 of a greater internal area is formed.

[0040] In this example, as shown in figures 13 and 17, each quadrilateral 140 further comprises a plurality of additional upper ribs 11 and lower ribs 12 assembled inside the perimeter of the quadrilateral 140 to form an array of internal quadrilaterals 140a. The internal quadrilaterals 140a further may be coupled with each other by the connecting ribs 13.

[0041] As shown in figures 14 and 15, the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 comprise respectively four pairs of fitting notches 112, 122 on one edge thereof (in this example in the upper edge thereof), distributed at their respective equidistant four sections, whereas the connecting ribs 13 comprises two notches 131 on the lower edge thereof as shown in figure 16. As can be seen in figure 13 and 17, the notches 131 of the connecting ribs 13 are configured to be fitted into the fitting notches 112 of the upper ribs 11 and the fitting notches 122 of the lower ribs 12, so that two adjacent quadrilaterals 140, 140a are coupled with each other by the connecting ribs 13. It is noted that the use of large upper 11 and lower ribs 12 to form an array of internal quadrilaterals 140a allows achieving a more stable floorboard structure 10, as well as a quicker and easier assembly and disassembly thereof.

[0042] In this example, the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 also comprise respectively four recesses 113, 123, each arranged at their respective equidistant four sections (see figures 14 and 15) intended for the passage of cables or other suitable components, as explained above.

[0043] As shown in figure 13, the floor panels 15 are shaped to be assembled at each internal quadrilateral 140a to form the floorboard structure 10. However, a large floor panel 15 may be used to be assembled to a large quadrilateral 140, if needed.

[0044] Figure 6 shows, by way of a diagrammatic perspective view, one example of a wall structure 20 of the stand in the example of the reusable modular system 1 according to the present disclosure. The wall structure 20 comprises columns 21 and cross members 22. The columns 21 comprise U-shaped slots 211 along the column, wherein the U-shaped slots are formed by a base 211A which is further away from the floor in assembly, and two side branches 211B. For their part, the cross members 22 comprise fitting slots 221 on the lower edge thereof (the edge closest to the floor in assembly). In assembly, the cross members 22 can be thus assembled with the columns 21 by assembling the fitting slots 221 of the cross members 22 into the side branches 211B of the U-shaped slots 211 of the columns 21, thereby forming frames 26 of the walls 20 of the stand. At the same time, each cross member 22 has two fitting slots 221, located near each end of the cross member 22. Thus, when the cross member 22 is connected with two columns 21 through the fitting of said fitting slots 221 and the side branches 211B of each column 21, the longitudinal displacement of the cross member 22 is locked, i.e., the cross member is prevented from being moved along its longitudinal direction. Furthermore, as shown in figure 6, in this example, each U-shaped slot 211 of each column 21 is assembled with two cross members 22, by fitting the fitting slots 221 of the cross members 22 on both side branches 211B of the U-shaped slot 211.

[0045] In order to connect two frames 26, frame connecting members 24 can be used to connect adjacent columns 21, wherein each column belongs to a different frame. As shown in figure 6, when two columns 21 in different frames are arranged adjacent to each other, it can be seen that several U-shaped fitting slots 211 are provided along the columns 21 that correspond to each other. Each frame connecting member 24 is inserted through two bases 211A of the corresponding U-shaped slots. Thus, the two columns 21 are connected, and accordingly the two frames 26 where the columns belong are assembled to each other. Several frame connecting members 24 may be used along the columns 21 to ensure a tighter connection between the frames.

[0046] Further, as shown in figure 9a, each frame connecting member 24 comprises two protrusions 242 and two connecting slots 241 located on either side of the frame connecting member 24. The protrusions 242 make the frame connecting member 24 wider than the base 211A. Each connecting slot 241 is designed to receive a locking member 25 in its respective slot. It can be seen in figure 6 that, for connecting two columns 21, the protrusions 242 are located between the columns to be connected, whereas the connecting slots 241 are located outside the space between said columns 21. As shown in figure 9b, the locking member 25 comprises a main body 251 and a tab 252. The main body 251 of the locking member 25 is wider than the connecting slot 241, while the tab 252 is narrower than the connecting slot 241. By inserting the locking member 25 into the connecting slot 241, the tab 252 is allowed to pass through the connecting slot 241, while the main body 251 of the locking member 25 is arranged over the frame connecting member 24. In this way, the frame connecting members 24 are locked and cannot come out of the bases 211A. Thus, the two columns 21 remain tightly connected and the frames 26 remain securely assembled.

[0047] Although the frame connecting member 24 shown in figure 9a has only two connecting slots 241, it is possible to design frame connecting members 24 with more slots to connect more than two columns or frames. For example, a frame connecting member 24 with four connecting slots may be used to connect up to four columns or frames in parallel (not shown), thus allowing the thickness of the wall structure to be increased. In other examples, when two frames are arranged at an angle instead of being aligned in the same plane, the frame connecting members 24 may comprise two parts that may be connected at right angle or at an angle compatible with the desired angle between the frames 26, and the protrusions 242 and connecting slots 241 are arranged near the two ends for coupling the columns 21 of the frames 26 to be connected.

[0048] In some examples, the connecting members 24 may comprise other suitable configurations to connect more than two frames 26 (not shown), for example, a T-shaped configuration to connect three frames 26 or a cross-shaped configuration to connect four frames 26.

[0049] In order to extend the wall structure 20 of the system 1 in the vertical direction, the columns 21 may be connected vertically by means of column connecting members 27. As shown in figure 9c, each connecting member 27 comprises a number of fitting slots 271 and 272 for assembling the columns. In this particular example, the connecting member 27 has two upper fitting slots 271 in the upper edge thereof and two lower fitting slots 272 in the lower edge thereof, allowing two columns to be received on both sides. The top edge refers to the side furthest away from the floor when the connecting member 27 is installed in the frame 26. As shown in figure 8, each column 21 has two ends: a lower end 212 and an upper end 213. In order to facilitate coupling between the columns 21 and the column connecting members 27, each end of the columns comprises fitting slots. The fitting slots 212A of the lower end 212 of the columns 21 can be fitted into the upper fitting slots 271 of the column connecting members 27, and the fitting slots 213A of the upper end 213 of the columns 21 can be fitted into the lower fitting slots 272 of the column connecting members 27. By fitting the fitting slots of the column connecting members into the fitting slots at the ends of the columns, the columns and the frames are vertically assembled, thus extending the wall structure 20 in the vertical direction. To ensure a tighter connection, the lower end 212 of the column 21 may include recesses 212B, while the upper end 213 may include protrusions 213B. When the columns 21 are assembled using the column connecting members 27, the recesses 212B on the upper columns fit into the protrusions 213B on the lower columns, allowing a more solid connection between adjacent columns in the vertical direction.

[0050] As shown in figures 18 to 22, to form curved frames 260, curved connecting members 29 and additional columns 30 may be used. In this example, the curved connecting members 29 (see figure 18) comprises a pair of protrusions 291 at respective opposite ends thereof, whereas the additional columns 30 (see figure 19) comprises corresponding pairs of recesses 301A, 302A and 303A at respective lateral edges thereof.

[0051] The protrusions 291 are configured to be assembled with the recesses 301A, 302A and 303A to form curved frames (see figures 20, 20A and 21). Therefore, it is possible to obtain different configurations of wall structures 20, for example to form curved corners frames 260 between two straight frames 26 (see figure 21) or even to form sinuous walls, i.e. joining two or more curved frames 260 (see figure 20 and 20A).

[0052] In order to extend the curved frames 260 in the vertical direction (see figures 21 and 22), the columns 30 also may be connected vertically by means of the mentioned column connecting members 27 (see figure 9c), in a similar way as for connecting vertically the columns 21, as explained above. In this example, the columns 30 comprise fitting slots 301B at the lower end thereof configured to be fitted into the upper fitting slots 271 of the column connecting members 27, and fitting slots 302B at the upper end thereof configured to be fitted into the lower fitting slots 272 of the column connecting members 27.

[0053] Furthermore, in this example, the curved connecting members 29 comprise fitting slots 292 at respective opposite ends thereof configured for receiving lateral edges of the column connecting members 27 (see e.g. figures 20, 20A and 21), thus achieving a tight connection between adjacent curved frames.

[0054] Once the frames 26 are assembled, the wall covering panels 23 can be hung on these frames so as to form a wall structure 20, as shown in figure 10. A series of covering panels 23 are hung from the frames 26 to form a continuous surface. In this example, connection between the covering panels 23 and the frames 26 is carried out by means of protrusions 231 located on the rear side of the panels. Said protrusions 231 are attached to the cross members 22. In order to receive the protrusions 231, the cross members 22 comprise supporting profiles 222 along the longitudinal direction thereof, forming channels 223 (see figure 11). Said channels 223 and the protrusions 231 are counter shaped so as to fit together, allowing the covering panels 23 to be supported by the channels 223 of the cross members 22, as shown by the arrows illustrated in figure 11.

[0055] As for the types of covering panels, a wide variety is available, including: melamine panels in various colours such as white, grey and black; melamine panels with shelf; cork panels; OSB (Oriented Strand Board) panels; and panels with TV support, among others. In addition, it is possible to install sockets in the panels and to hang LED spotlights. Panels can be selected and installed according to specific customer requirements.

[0056] To form a stand system 1 according to the present disclosure, the wall structure 20 may be of the self-supporting type, that is, without the need for an additional connection to the floorboard structure 10. According to a further example, the wall structure 20 may be tightly connected to the floorboard structure 10. For carrying out said connection, column-floor connecting members 28 and side supporting members 16 are used, as shown in figure 12. The connecting members 28 are designed similarly to the column connecting members 27. One side of the connecting members 28 is intended to receive the lower ends of the upper columns 21 in the direction shown by the arrows (see figure 12), whereas the other side is attached to the floor instead of being connected to the lower columns. In this example, the connecting members 28 comprise two fitting slots 281, as shown in figure 9d, to fit into the two fitting slots 212A of the lower ends 212 of the columns 21. At the same time, the side opposite to the side with the slots is flat to rest on a floor panel 15. To ensure that the connecting member 28 is stable in its lateral directions, side supporting members 16 are used, two on each lateral side of the connecting member 28. In this case, the side supporting members 16 are attached to the floor panel 15. In this way, the columns 21 are fixed to the floor and, consequently, the wall structure 20 is tightly connected with the floorboard structure 10, thus forming a stable stand system 1.

[0057] Although in the example shown in figure 12 the wall structure 20 is connected to the floorboard structure 10, in other examples it may be attached to different types of floors, such as a concrete floor in an exhibition hall. Likewise, it is possible for the structure to rest directly on the floor, without the need to install additional connections.

[0058] To assemble an exhibition stand using the reusable modular system according to the present disclosure, the method may comprise the following steps: transporting the necessary ribs, panels and connecting members to the place where the assembly is to be carried out; assembling the upper, lower and connecting ribs to form the polygons that make up the floorboard structure; fitting the floor panels into the polygons to create a continuous surface; fixing the columns to the floor; assembling the columns and the cross members to form the frames; connecting the frames together using the necessary connecting members and locking members to form the wall structure; extending the frames in height by means of the column connectors, if necessary; placing the covering panels on the cross members to form a continuous surface on the walls.

[0059] Once the exhibition stand has fulfilled its function, the modular system may be disassembled, and its components may be reused to build other exhibition stands. The disassembly method may comprise the following steps: removing the covering panels from the cross members; disassembling the frames that are connected to each other; disassembling the cross members from the columns; disassembling the columns from the floor; removing the floor panels from the floorboard structure; disassembling the upper, lower and connecting ribs of the floorboard structure; collecting and storing all parts for future use.

[0060] Although only a number of examples of the disclosure have been disclosed herein, those skilled in the art will understand that other alternative examples and / or uses of the disclosure as well as obvious modifications and equivalent elements are possible. Furthermore, the present disclosure encompasses all possible combinations of the particular examples described above. Reference signs related to drawings and placed in parentheses in a claim are solely for attempting to increase the intelligibility of the claim and shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claim. The scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by particular examples but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0031]Figure 1 shows, by means of a diagrammatic perspective view, one example of the reusable modular system 1 according to the present description. The system 1 comprises a floorboard structure 10 for a floor. Such floorboard structure 10 comprises a number of parts: upper ribs 11, lower ribs 12, connecting ribs 13 and floor panels 15. All the parts are board shaped; the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 have their lower edges resting on the floor, while the connecting ribs 13 are arranged on two ribs, either the upper ribs 11 or the lower ribs 12. The floor panels 15 rest on the ribs and form a flat upper surface of the floorboard structure 10.

[0032]As for the connections, as shown in figure 2a, the upper ribs 11 comprise two fitting slots 111 in a lower edge thereof, near the ends, whereas figure 3a shows the lower ribs 12 comprising two fitting slots 121 in an upper edge thereof, also near the ends. When the slots 111 and 121 fit into each other in the direction shown by the ...

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a reusable modular system for exhibition stand. The system allows the stand for exhibitions or temporary events to be assembled and subsequently disassembled.BACKGROUND

[0002] Systems for stands for exhibitions or temporary events can be classified into two main categories according to their flexibility of construction. The first category comprises systems with prefabricated and standardized elements, for example, aluminium cross members, with predetermined shapes and sizes, and their assembly is simple. Due to these features, systems in this category are usually cost-effective. However, due to their standard appearance, it is difficult to stand out among all the stands, and sometimes this is not the best option to attract more visitors.

[0003] For this reason, with a larger budget, systems in the second category are chosen, which are designed according to the specific requirements of each exhibitor. Although these structures are more effective in capturing the attention of visitors, they require a unique design for each stand which often involves the use of large and heavy structural elements. During construction, the elements of the system are often cut to size and assembled using, for example, screws or nails. These characteristics make subsequent recycling difficult. As a result, the manufacturing and shipping costs of the structural elements are higher as compared to systems in the first category, and recycling is complex, making them less sustainable.

[0004] For all these reasons, it would be desirable to develop a new type of reusable system for stands for exhibitions or temporary events that combines modularity with greater configuration flexibility.SUMMARY

[0005] A reusable modular system for exhibition stand is provided, comprising a set of parts, so that it is reusable and allows multiple different configurations.

[0006] According to the present disclosure, the reusable modular system for exhibition stand comprises a set of parts for building a floorboard structure for a floor. The parts comprise upper ribs with fitting slots on the lower edge thereof, and lower ribs with fitting slots on the upper edge thereof. The upper and lower ribs are configured to be assembled to form polygons, and the system further comprises connecting ribs between polygons.

[0007] When assembling the floorboard structure, it is possible to assemble several pairs of upper and lower ribs, forming two or more polygons. These polygons can be attached to each other through the connecting ribs, allowing the structure to be extended over any surface. In this way, a standard size of ribs of each type can be used, thus reducing manufacturing and shipping costs. In addition, the ribs can be recycled and reused in other floors, making this floorboard structure more sustainable as compared to structures made of a single piece. The structure also adapts easily to different surface sizes and shapes, without being limited to a conventional rectangular design; the pattern, shape and size of the polygons can be adjusted as required.

[0008] On the other hand, the connecting ribs make it possible to easily and simply attach all the assembled polygons, avoiding external fastening systems that complicate or increase the cost for attaching the polygons. In addition, since the polygons are assembled together, the rigidity and stability of the floor is improved.

[0009] Polygons may have different shapes, including hexagons, octagons or, as shown in the following examples, quadrilaterals.

[0010] In one example, each quadrilateral may comprise two upper ribs and two lower ribs assembled to form the perimeter of the quadrilateral.

[0011] In some examples, each quadrilateral further comprises a plurality of additional upper ribs and lower ribs assembled inside the perimeter of the quadrilateral to form an array of internal quadrilaterals. The internal quadrilaterals further may be coupled with each other by the connecting ribs.

[0012] Therefore, the upper ribs and lower ribs may be of different lengths, for example from a standard length (e.g. 60 cm) to form a quadrilateral of standard size, to greater lengths, for example between two and four times the standard length. This configuration allows the assembly of additional upper and lower ribs to form an array of internal quadrilaterals, wherein the internal quadrilaterals may be coupled with each other by the connecting ribs to ensure greater rigidity. Consequently, the use of longer upper and lower ribs to form an array of internal quadrilaterals allows achieving a more stable floorboard structure, as well as a quicker and easier assembly and disassembly thereof.

[0013] In one example, the upper ribs and the lower ribs may comprise one or more fitting notches on one edge thereof, and the connecting ribs may comprise two notches on one edge thereof. The notches of the connecting ribs are configured to be fitted into the fitting notches of the upper ribs and the fitting notches of the lower ribs, so that two adjacent quadrilaterals are coupled with each other by the connecting ribs.

[0014] In this way, for example, when assembling two quadrilaterals with upper and lower ribs, the positions of the already assembled quadrilaterals can be fixed by fitting the two notches of a connecting rib, one to each of the respective on or more fitting notches of two upper or lower ribs indistinctly. This makes it possible to attach several quadrilaterals and extend the floorboard structure to the desired size, easily and at low cost. In addition, the same type of connecting ribs can be used to attach the same quadrilateral to different adjacent quadrilaterals, which further strengthens the stability of the resulting floorboard structure. For example, the quadrilateral can become attached to up to four adjacent quadrilaterals of the same size by fitting connecting ribs on each side of the same quadrilateral.

[0015] According to one example, the upper ribs and the lower ribs may further comprise a passage recess, e.g. for the passage of cables, on the edge intended to rest on the floor, when the ribs are mounted forming a quadrilateral. In this way, the cables are not visible, which not only improves aesthetics but, more importantly, prevents the public from tripping over the cables or suffering an electric shock.

[0016] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise floor panels comprising two protrusions at opposite corners of the underside thereof. In this way, each floor panel can be assembled to a quadrilateral of the floorboard structure to form the stand floor. The protrusions prevent lateral movements of the floor panels on the stand floor surface.

[0017] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise columns with U-shaped slots and cross members with fitting slots in a lower edge thereof. The U-shaped slots are formed with a base furthest away from the floor and two side branches. The cross members are configured to be assembled with the columns by assembling the fitting slots of the cross members into the side branches, thereby forming frames to form wall structures of the stand in a simple manner.

[0018] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise frame connecting members configured to be fitted into the bases of U-shaped slots for connecting columns of frames adjacent to each other.

[0019] In examples, the frame connecting members may comprise connecting slots, and the system may further comprise locking members configured to be fitted into the connecting slots for locking the connection of columns of frames adjacent to each other. When the columns are connected by the connecting members and secured with the locking members, the frames are stably connected.

[0020] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise column connecting members Said connecting members may comprise upper fitting slots on the upper edge thereof and lower fitting slots on the lower edge thereof, configured for connecting columns to each other in a vertical direction.

[0021] In some examples, to achieve a tight connection, the columns may comprise fitting slots at the lower end thereof configured to be fitted into the upper fitting slots of the column connecting members, and fitting slots at the upper end thereof configured to be fitted into the lower fitting slots of the column connecting members. In this way, connection between the columns located above and below is ensured by the column connecting members, connecting them so as to extend the system in the vertical direction.

[0022] In examples, in order to improve the connection between columns in the vertical direction, the columns may further comprise recesses at the lower end thereof and protrusions at the upper end thereof, wherein the recesses are configured to be fitted into the protrusions between adjacent columns in a vertical direction.

[0023] In one example, to form curved frames, the reusable modular system further may comprise curved connecting members comprising protrusions at respective opposite ends thereof, and additional columns comprising recesses at respective lateral edges thereof. The protrusions are configured to be assembled with the recesses to form curved frames. Therefore, it is possible to obtain different configurations of wall structures, for example to form curved corners between two straight frames or even to form sinuous walls, i.e. joining two or more curved frames.

[0024] In examples, the additional columns to form curved frames may comprise fitting slots at the lower end thereof configured to be fitted into the upper fitting slots of the column connecting members, and fitting slots at the upper end thereof configured to be fitted into the lower fitting slots of the column connecting members, such that connecting columns to each other in a vertical direction. On the other hand, the curved connecting members further may comprise fitting slots at respective opposite ends thereof configured for receiving lateral edges of the column connecting members, thus achieving a tight connection between adjacent curved frames.

[0025] In one example, the reusable modular system further may comprise wall covering panels. Such wall covering panels may comprise protrusions on the rear side thereof for assembling each covering panel to the cross members, thereby forming the surfaces of the walls of the stand.

[0026] In examples, the cross members may comprise a supporting profile forming a channel configured to support the protrusions of the covering panels. The channels in the cross members and the protrusions in the wall covering panels are counter shaped so as to fit together, thus allowing the panels to be assembled to the cross members in a simple and stable manner.

[0027] In one example, in order to connect the columns to the floor, the reusable modular system further may comprise side supporting members and column-floor connecting members. The connecting members may comprise, for example, fitting slots configured to be fitted into the fitting slots of the lower end of the columns. On the other hand, the side supporting members are arranged on the floor panels and configured to support the connecting members in a stable vertical position, thereby maintaining stability of the connecting members in the lateral directions.

[0028] The above-mentioned connection ways for connecting components such as ribs, panels, columns and cross members, through fitting slots, notches and related parts, are non-destructive as compared to conventional methods using nails or screws. This allows components to be reused in their entirety without damage. Thanks to the reuse of components, higher quality materials without paint coatings, and capable of being easily adapted to different occasions can be used. This also improves the aesthetics and robustness of the stands.

[0029] Further objects, advantages and features of examples of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled from the disclosure or may be learned by practice of the disclosure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Particular examples of the present disclosure will be described below by way of a nonlimiting example, with reference to the attached drawings, wherein: Figure 1 is a diagrammatic perspective view of one example of the reusable modular system of the present disclosure; Figure 2a is a longitudinal view of one example of the upper rib; Figure 2b is a longitudinal view of a further example of the upper rib; Figure 3a is a longitudinal view of one example of the lower rib; Figure 3b is a longitudinal view of a further example of the lower rib; Figure 4a is a longitudinal view of one example of the connecting rib; Figure 4b is a longitudinal view of a further example of the connecting rib; Figure 5 is a lower plan view of a floor panel; Figure 6 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a wall structure without wall panels; Figure 7 is a longitudinal view of a cross member; Figure 8 is a longitudinal view of a column; Figure 9a is a plan view of a frame connecting member; Figure 9b is a side view of a locking member; Figure 9c is a front view of a column connecting member; Figure 9d is a front view of a column-floor connecting member; Figure 10 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a wall structure with some wall panels installed; Figure 11 is a side view of a wall structure showing the assembly of the wall panels; Figure 12 is a diagrammatic perspective view of one example of the column-floor connection; Figure 13 is a diagrammatic perspective view of another example of the reusable modular system of the present disclosure; Figure 14 is a longitudinal view of another example of the upper rib; Figure 15 is a longitudinal view of another example of the lower rib; Figure 16 is a longitudinal view of another example of the connecting rib; Figure 17 is a partial exploded view of the reusable modular system of Figure 13; Figure 18 is a plan view of a curved connecting member; Figure 19 is a longitudinal view of a column for assembling curved connecting members; Figure 20 is a plan view of an example of a wall structure including curved frames; Figure 20A is an enlarged view of a detail in Figure 20 showing the connection between curved frames; Figure 21 is a diagrammatic perspective view of a wall structure without wall panels showing a corner connection with curved frames; and Figure 22 is a diagrammatic perspective exploded view of an upper and a lower curved frames showing their assembly in a vertical direction. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

[0031] Figure 1 shows, by means of a diagrammatic perspective view, one example of the reusable modular system 1 according to the present description. The system 1 comprises a floorboard structure 10 for a floor. Such floorboard structure 10 comprises a number of parts: upper ribs 11, lower ribs 12, connecting ribs 13 and floor panels 15. All the parts are board shaped; the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 have their lower edges resting on the floor, while the connecting ribs 13 are arranged on two ribs, either the upper ribs 11 or the lower ribs 12. The floor panels 15 rest on the ribs and form a flat upper surface of the floorboard structure 10.

[0032] As for the connections, as shown in figure 2a, the upper ribs 11 comprise two fitting slots 111 in a lower edge thereof, near the ends, whereas figure 3a shows the lower ribs 12 comprising two fitting slots 121 in an upper edge thereof, also near the ends. When the slots 111 and 121 fit into each other in the direction shown by the arrow (see figure 1), the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 are connected. In the example shown in figure 1, a quadrilateral 14 is formed when two upper ribs 11 and two lower ribs 12 are connected together by fitting of slots 111 and 121. However, other shapes may be envisaged if a different number of upper ribs 11 or lower ribs 12 are used. For example, when three upper ribs 11 and three lower ribs 12 are used, a hexagon can be formed. Thus, the shapes are not limited only to the quadrilateral 14 shown in figure 1. Furthermore, all the quadrilaterals 14 in figure 1 are rectangles with the same size. However, other types of quadrilaterals, such as trapezoids, may also be formed using the upper and lower ribs of various sizes.

[0033] Despite the number of shapes and sizes that may be formed, a specific example, as shown in figure 1, is used, for simplicity, to explain how two quadrilaterals are connected. When multiple quadrilaterals 14 are formed, connecting ribs 13 are used to connect them. As shown in figure 4a, the connecting ribs 13 have two notches 131 on the lower edge thereof, while the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 comprise central notches 112 and 122 on the upper edges thereof, near the centre of the length thereof, as shown in figures 2a and 3a, respectively. For coupling two adjacent quadrilaterals, such as 14A and 14B, the two notches 131 of a connecting rib 13 fit into the central notches 122 of two adjacent lower ribs 12 in the direction shown by the arrow, each lower rib 12 being part of a different quadrilateral. Similarly, in order to connect two quadrilaterals, such as 14A and 14C, the notches 131 of a connecting rib 13 are coupled with the central notches 112 of two adjacent upper ribs 11 in the direction shown by the arrow, each upper rib 11 being part of a different quadrilateral. The quadrilaterals are thus assembled with each other, allowing the floorboard structure to be expanded on any surface easily.

[0034] The notches in the ribs may also be made in an alternative manner, as shown in figures 2b, 3b and 4b. In this case, the centre notches 112' in the upper ribs 11' and the centre notches 122' in the lower ribs 12' are located on the lower edge instead of the upper edge. Notches 131' in the connecting ribs 13' are located on the upper edge, allowing these notches 131' to fit into the notches 112' and 122' in the opposite direction of the arrow shown in figure 1. In other words, in this alternative example, the connecting ribs 13' are located below the upper and lower ribs 11' and 12' when assembled to form the quadrilaterals 14.

[0035] Recesses 113 in the upper ribs 11 and recesses 123 in the lower ribs 12 are shown in figure 1. Such recesses allow cables or other services to be deployed below the floorboard structure 10, once all the quadrilaterals 14 are mounted and assembled together. In figures 2a and 3a, it can be seen that the recesses are made by reducing the height of the ribs outside the areas that are supported by the floor. In the alternative example, where notches 131' are installed in the upper edge of the connecting ribs 13', recesses 132' are also provided in the lower edge, as shown in figure 4b, allowing more space for the passage of cables.

[0036] Figure 1 shows a series of floor panels 15 installed on the ribs to form a floorboard structure 10 for the floor of the system 1. Said floor panels 15, shaped like quadrilaterals in this case, are adapted to the quadrilaterals 14 formed by the ribs 11 and 12. In order to prevent the panels from sliding sideways, two protrusions 151 (not shown in the view of figure 1) are provided at opposite corners of the lower surface of the floor panels 15, as shown in figure 5. The protrusions 151 are assembled at two of the corners of each quadrilateral 14 of the floorboard structure 10, ensuring that the floor panels 15 are tightly fixed and that the floor surface of the stand is continuous. It is possible to add further protrusions in other corners, provided that prevention of lateral movement is ensured and that it is ensured that they fit correctly with the corresponding corners of the quadrilaterals. The lower surface of the panel refers to the side arranged on the underside once the panel is placed on the floorboard, with the inner surface facing the floor.

[0037] Figure 13 shows, by means of a diagrammatic perspective view, another example of the reusable modular system 1 of the present description, wherein the upper ribs 11 (see figure 14) and the lower ribs 12 (see figure 15) have a larger length in their longitudinal direction.

[0038] The upper ribs 11 and lower ribs 12 may be of different lengths, for example from a standard length "d" (e.g. 60 cm) to form a quadrilateral 14 of a standard size as described in the previous example (see e.g. figure 1, 2a and 3a), to greater lengths, e.g. between two and four times the standard length.

[0039] As can be seen in figures 13 to 15, the length of the upper ribs 11 and the length of the lower ribs 12 corresponds to four times the standard length "d", thus forming four equidistant sections. In this example, the upper ribs 11 comprises four pairs of fitting slots 111 in a lower end thereof, distributed at their respective equidistant four sections (see figure 14), whereas the lower ribs 12 comprises four pairs of fitting slots 121 in an upper edge thereof, also distributed at their respective equidistant four sections (see figure 15). When two upper ribs 11 and two lower ribs 12 are connected together by the respective pairs of fitting slots 111 and 112, the perimeter of a large quadrilateral 140 of a greater internal area is formed.

[0040] In this example, as shown in figures 13 and 17, each quadrilateral 140 further comprises a plurality of additional upper ribs 11 and lower ribs 12 assembled inside the perimeter of the quadrilateral 140 to form an array of internal quadrilaterals 140a. The internal quadrilaterals 140a further may be coupled with each other by the connecting ribs 13.

[0041] As shown in figures 14 and 15, the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 comprise respectively four pairs of fitting notches 112, 122 on one edge thereof (in this example in the upper edge thereof), distributed at their respective equidistant four sections, whereas the connecting ribs 13 comprises two notches 131 on the lower edge thereof as shown in figure 16. As can be seen in figure 13 and 17, the notches 131 of the connecting ribs 13 are configured to be fitted into the fitting notches 112 of the upper ribs 11 and the fitting notches 122 of the lower ribs 12, so that two adjacent quadrilaterals 140, 140a are coupled with each other by the connecting ribs 13. It is noted that the use of large upper 11 and lower ribs 12 to form an array of internal quadrilaterals 140a allows achieving a more stable floorboard structure 10, as well as a quicker and easier assembly and disassembly thereof.

[0042] In this example, the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 also comprise respectively four recesses 113, 123, each arranged at their respective equidistant four sections (see figures 14 and 15) intended for the passage of cables or other suitable components, as explained above.

[0043] As shown in figure 13, the floor panels 15 are shaped to be assembled at each internal quadrilateral 140a to form the floorboard structure 10. However, a large floor panel 15 may be used to be assembled to a large quadrilateral 140, if needed.

[0044] Figure 6 shows, by way of a diagrammatic perspective view, one example of a wall structure 20 of the stand in the example of the reusable modular system 1 according to the present disclosure. The wall structure 20 comprises columns 21 and cross members 22. The columns 21 comprise U-shaped slots 211 along the column, wherein the U-shaped slots are formed by a base 211A which is further away from the floor in assembly, and two side branches 211B. For their part, the cross members 22 comprise fitting slots 221 on the lower edge thereof (the edge closest to the floor in assembly). In assembly, the cross members 22 can be thus assembled with the columns 21 by assembling the fitting slots 221 of the cross members 22 into the side branches 211B of the U-shaped slots 211 of the columns 21, thereby forming frames 26 of the walls 20 of the stand. At the same time, each cross member 22 has two fitting slots 221, located near each end of the cross member 22. Thus, when the cross member 22 is connected with two columns 21 through the fitting of said fitting slots 221 and the side branches 211B of each column 21, the longitudinal displacement of the cross member 22 is locked, i.e., the cross member is prevented from being moved along its longitudinal direction. Furthermore, as shown in figure 6, in this example, each U-shaped slot 211 of each column 21 is assembled with two cross members 22, by fitting the fitting slots 221 of the cross members 22 on both side branches 211B of the U-shaped slot 211.

[0045] In order to connect two frames 26, frame connecting members 24 can be used to connect adjacent columns 21, wherein each column belongs to a different frame. As shown in figure 6, when two columns 21 in different frames are arranged adjacent to each other, it can be seen that several U-shaped fitting slots 211 are provided along the columns 21 that correspond to each other. Each frame connecting member 24 is inserted through two bases 211A of the corresponding U-shaped slots. Thus, the two columns 21 are connected, and accordingly the two frames 26 where the columns belong are assembled to each other. Several frame connecting members 24 may be used along the columns 21 to ensure a tighter connection between the frames.

[0046] Further, as shown in figure 9a, each frame connecting member 24 comprises two protrusions 242 and two connecting slots 241 located on either side of the frame connecting member 24. The protrusions 242 make the frame connecting member 24 wider than the base 211A. Each connecting slot 241 is designed to receive a locking member 25 in its respective slot. It can be seen in figure 6 that, for connecting two columns 21, the protrusions 242 are located between the columns to be connected, whereas the connecting slots 241 are located outside the space between said columns 21. As shown in figure 9b, the locking member 25 comprises a main body 251 and a tab 252. The main body 251 of the locking member 25 is wider than the connecting slot 241, while the tab 252 is narrower than the connecting slot 241. By inserting the locking member 25 into the connecting slot 241, the tab 252 is allowed to pass through the connecting slot 241, while the main body 251 of the locking member 25 is arranged over the frame connecting member 24. In this way, the frame connecting members 24 are locked and cannot come out of the bases 211A. Thus, the two columns 21 remain tightly connected and the frames 26 remain securely assembled.

[0047] Although the frame connecting member 24 shown in figure 9a has only two connecting slots 241, it is possible to design frame connecting members 24 with more slots to connect more than two columns or frames. For example, a frame connecting member 24 with four connecting slots may be used to connect up to four columns or frames in parallel (not shown), thus allowing the thickness of the wall structure to be increased. In other examples, when two frames are arranged at an angle instead of being aligned in the same plane, the frame connecting members 24 may comprise two parts that may be connected at right angle or at an angle compatible with the desired angle between the frames 26, and the protrusions 242 and connecting slots 241 are arranged near the two ends for coupling the columns 21 of the frames 26 to be connected.

[0048] In some examples, the connecting members 24 may comprise other suitable configurations to connect more than two frames 26 (not shown), for example, a T-shaped configuration to connect three frames 26 or a cross-shaped configuration to connect four frames 26.

[0049] In order to extend the wall structure 20 of the system 1 in the vertical direction, the columns 21 may be connected vertically by means of column connecting members 27. As shown in figure 9c, each connecting member 27 comprises a number of fitting slots 271 and 272 for assembling the columns. In this particular example, the connecting member 27 has two upper fitting slots 271 in the upper edge thereof and two lower fitting slots 272 in the lower edge thereof, allowing two columns to be received on both sides. The top edge refers to the side furthest away from the floor when the connecting member 27 is installed in the frame 26. As shown in figure 8, each column 21 has two ends: a lower end 212 and an upper end 213. In order to facilitate coupling between the columns 21 and the column connecting members 27, each end of the columns comprises fitting slots. The fitting slots 212A of the lower end 212 of the columns 21 can be fitted into the upper fitting slots 271 of the column connecting members 27, and the fitting slots 213A of the upper end 213 of the columns 21 can be fitted into the lower fitting slots 272 of the column connecting members 27. By fitting the fitting slots of the column connecting members into the fitting slots at the ends of the columns, the columns and the frames are vertically assembled, thus extending the wall structure 20 in the vertical direction. To ensure a tighter connection, the lower end 212 of the column 21 may include recesses 212B, while the upper end 213 may include protrusions 213B. When the columns 21 are assembled using the column connecting members 27, the recesses 212B on the upper columns fit into the protrusions 213B on the lower columns, allowing a more solid connection between adjacent columns in the vertical direction.

[0050] As shown in figures 18 to 22, to form curved frames 260, curved connecting members 29 and additional columns 30 may be used. In this example, the curved connecting members 29 (see figure 18) comprises a pair of protrusions 291 at respective opposite ends thereof, whereas the additional columns 30 (see figure 19) comprises corresponding pairs of recesses 301A, 302A and 303A at respective lateral edges thereof.

[0051] The protrusions 291 are configured to be assembled with the recesses 301A, 302A and 303A to form curved frames (see figures 20, 20A and 21). Therefore, it is possible to obtain different configurations of wall structures 20, for example to form curved corners frames 260 between two straight frames 26 (see figure 21) or even to form sinuous walls, i.e. joining two or more curved frames 260 (see figure 20 and 20A).

[0052] In order to extend the curved frames 260 in the vertical direction (see figures 21 and 22), the columns 30 also may be connected vertically by means of the mentioned column connecting members 27 (see figure 9c), in a similar way as for connecting vertically the columns 21, as explained above. In this example, the columns 30 comprise fitting slots 301B at the lower end thereof configured to be fitted into the upper fitting slots 271 of the column connecting members 27, and fitting slots 302B at the upper end thereof configured to be fitted into the lower fitting slots 272 of the column connecting members 27.

[0053] Furthermore, in this example, the curved connecting members 29 comprise fitting slots 292 at respective opposite ends thereof configured for receiving lateral edges of the column connecting members 27 (see e.g. figures 20, 20A and 21), thus achieving a tight connection between adjacent curved frames.

[0054] Once the frames 26 are assembled, the wall covering panels 23 can be hung on these frames so as to form a wall structure 20, as shown in figure 10. A series of covering panels 23 are hung from the frames 26 to form a continuous surface. In this example, connection between the covering panels 23 and the frames 26 is carried out by means of protrusions 231 located on the rear side of the panels. Said protrusions 231 are attached to the cross members 22. In order to receive the protrusions 231, the cross members 22 comprise supporting profiles 222 along the longitudinal direction thereof, forming channels 223 (see figure 11). Said channels 223 and the protrusions 231 are counter shaped so as to fit together, allowing the covering panels 23 to be supported by the channels 223 of the cross members 22, as shown by the arrows illustrated in figure 11.

[0055] As for the types of covering panels, a wide variety is available, including: melamine panels in various colours such as white, grey and black; melamine panels with shelf; cork panels; OSB (Oriented Strand Board) panels; and panels with TV support, among others. In addition, it is possible to install sockets in the panels and to hang LED spotlights. Panels can be selected and installed according to specific customer requirements.

[0056] To form a stand system 1 according to the present disclosure, the wall structure 20 may be of the self-supporting type, that is, without the need for an additional connection to the floorboard structure 10. According to a further example, the wall structure 20 may be tightly connected to the floorboard structure 10. For carrying out said connection, column-floor connecting members 28 and side supporting members 16 are used, as shown in figure 12. The connecting members 28 are designed similarly to the column connecting members 27. One side of the connecting members 28 is intended to receive the lower ends of the upper columns 21 in the direction shown by the arrows (see figure 12), whereas the other side is attached to the floor instead of being connected to the lower columns. In this example, the connecting members 28 comprise two fitting slots 281, as shown in figure 9d, to fit into the two fitting slots 212A of the lower ends 212 of the columns 21. At the same time, the side opposite to the side with the slots is flat to rest on a floor panel 15. To ensure that the connecting member 28 is stable in its lateral directions, side supporting members 16 are used, two on each lateral side of the connecting member 28. In this case, the side supporting members 16 are attached to the floor panel 15. In this way, the columns 21 are fixed to the floor and, consequently, the wall structure 20 is tightly connected with the floorboard structure 10, thus forming a stable stand system 1.

[0057] Although in the example shown in figure 12 the wall structure 20 is connected to the floorboard structure 10, in other examples it may be attached to different types of floors, such as a concrete floor in an exhibition hall. Likewise, it is possible for the structure to rest directly on the floor, without the need to install additional connections.

[0058] To assemble an exhibition stand using the reusable modular system according to the present disclosure, the method may comprise the following steps: transporting the necessary ribs, panels and connecting members to the place where the assembly is to be carried out; assembling the upper, lower and connecting ribs to form the polygons that make up the floorboard structure; fitting the floor panels into the polygons to create a continuous surface; fixing the columns to the floor; assembling the columns and the cross members to form the frames; connecting the frames together using the necessary connecting members and locking members to form the wall structure; extending the frames in height by means of the column connectors, if necessary; placing the covering panels on the cross members to form a continuous surface on the walls.

[0059] Once the exhibition stand has fulfilled its function, the modular system may be disassembled, and its components may be reused to build other exhibition stands. The disassembly method may comprise the following steps: removing the covering panels from the cross members; disassembling the frames that are connected to each other; disassembling the cross members from the columns; disassembling the columns from the floor; removing the floor panels from the floorboard structure; disassembling the upper, lower and connecting ribs of the floorboard structure; collecting and storing all parts for future use.

[0060] Although only a number of examples of the disclosure have been disclosed herein, those skilled in the art will understand that other alternative examples and / or uses of the disclosure as well as obvious modifications and equivalent elements are possible. Furthermore, the present disclosure encompasses all possible combinations of the particular examples described above. Reference signs related to drawings and placed in parentheses in a claim are solely for attempting to increase the intelligibility of the claim and shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claim. The scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by particular examples but should be determined only by a fair reading of the claims that follow.

Examples

Embodiment Construction

[0031]Figure 1 shows, by means of a diagrammatic perspective view, one example of the reusable modular system 1 according to the present description. The system 1 comprises a floorboard structure 10 for a floor. Such floorboard structure 10 comprises a number of parts: upper ribs 11, lower ribs 12, connecting ribs 13 and floor panels 15. All the parts are board shaped; the upper ribs 11 and the lower ribs 12 have their lower edges resting on the floor, while the connecting ribs 13 are arranged on two ribs, either the upper ribs 11 or the lower ribs 12. The floor panels 15 rest on the ribs and form a flat upper surface of the floorboard structure 10.

[0032]As for the connections, as shown in figure 2a, the upper ribs 11 comprise two fitting slots 111 in a lower edge thereof, near the ends, whereas figure 3a shows the lower ribs 12 comprising two fitting slots 121 in an upper edge thereof, also near the ends. When the slots 111 and 121 fit into each other in the direction shown by the ...

Claims

1. A reusable modular system for exhibition stand (1), comprising a set of parts for building a floorboard structure (10) for a floor, characterized in that the parts comprise: - upper ribs (11) with fitting slots (111) on the lower edge thereof; and - lower ribs (12) with fitting slots (121) on the upper edge thereof; wherein the upper ribs (11) and the lower ribs (12) are configured to be assembled to form polygons, and wherein the system (1) further comprises connecting ribs (13) between polygons.

2. The reusable modular system (1) according to claim 1, wherein the polygons are quadrilaterals (14, 140).

3. The reusable modular system (1) according to claim 2, wherein each quadrilateral (14, 140) comprises two upper ribs (11) and two lower ribs (12) assembled to form the perimeter of the quadrilateral (14, 140).

4. The reusable modular system (1) according to claim 3, wherein each quadrilateral (140) further comprises a plurality of additional upper ribs (11) and lower ribs (12) assembled inside the perimeter of the quadrilateral (140) to form an array of internal quadrilaterals (140a), and wherein the internal quadrilaterals (140a) further are coupled with each other by the connecting ribs (13).

5. The reusable modular system (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the upper ribs (11) and the lower ribs (12) comprise one or more fitting notches (112, 122) on one edge thereof, and the connecting ribs (13) comprise two notches (131) on one edge thereof, wherein the notches (131) of the connecting ribs (13) are configured to be fitted into the fitting notches (112) of the upper ribs (11) and the fitting notches (122) of the lower ribs (12), so that two adjacent quadrilaterals (14, 140, 140a) are coupled with each other by the connecting ribs (13).

6. The reusable modular system (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein it further comprises floor panels (15), wherein the floor panels (15) comprise two protrusions (151) at opposite corners of the underside thereof for assembling floor panels (15) to quadrilaterals (14, 140, 140a) of the floorboard structure (10), to form the stand floor.

7. The reusable modular system (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein it further comprises: - columns (21) with U-shaped slots (211); and - cross members (22) with fitting slots (221) on the lower edge thereof; wherein the U-shaped slots (211) are formed with a base (211A) furthest away from the floor and two side branches (211B), and wherein the cross members (22) are configured to be assembled with the columns (21) by assembling the fitting slots (221) of the cross members (22) into the side branches (211B), forming frames (26) to form wall structures (20) of the stand.

8. The reusable modular system (1) according to claim 7, wherein it further comprises frame connecting members (24) configured to be fitted into the bases (211A) of the U-shaped slots (211), for connecting columns (21) of frames (26) adjacent to each other.

9. The reusable modular system (1) according to claim 8, wherein the frame connecting members (24) comprise connecting slots (241), and wherein the system comprises locking members (25) configured to be fitted into the connecting slots (241) for locking the connection of columns (21) of frames (26) adjacent to each other.

10. The reusable modular system (1) according to any one of claims 6 to 9, wherein it further comprises column connecting members (27), wherein the column connecting members (27) comprise upper fitting slots (271) on the upper edge thereof and lower fitting slots (272) on the lower edge thereof, configured for connecting columns (21) to each other in a vertical direction.

11. The reusable modular system (1) according to claim 10, wherein the columns (21) comprise fitting slots (212A) at the lower end (212) thereof configured to be fitted into the upper fitting slots (271) of the column connecting members (27), and fitting slots (213A) at the upper end (213) thereof configured to be fitted into the lower fitting slots (272) of the column connecting members (27).

12. The reusable modular system (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 11, wherein it further comprises: - curved connecting members (29) comprising protrusions (291) at respective opposite ends thereof; and - additional columns (30) comprising recesses (301A, 302A, 303A) at respective lateral edges thereof; wherein the protrusions (291) are configured to be assembled with the recesses (301A, 302A, 303A) to form curved frames (260).

13. The reusable modular system (1) according to claim 12 when depending on claim 10, wherein the columns (30) comprise fitting slots (301B) at the lower end (301) thereof configured to be fitted into the upper fitting slots (271) of the column connecting members (27), and fitting slots (302B) at the upper end (302) thereof configured to be fitted into the lower fitting slots (272) of the column connecting members (27), such that connecting columns (30) to each other in a vertical direction; and wherein the curved connecting members (29) further comprise fitting slots (292) at respective opposite ends thereof configured for receiving lateral edges of the column connecting members (27).

14. The reusable modular system (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 13, wherein it further comprises wall covering panels (23), wherein the covering panels (23) comprise protrusions (231) on the rear side thereof for assembling each covering panel (23) to the cross members (22) to form the surfaces of the walls (20) of the stand.

15. The reusable modular system (1) according to any one of claims 7 to 14, wherein it further comprises side supporting members (16) and column-floor connecting members (28), wherein the connecting members (28) comprise fitting slots (281) configured to be fitted into the fitting slots (212A) of the lower end of the columns (21), and wherein the side supporting members (16) are arranged on the floor panels (15) and configured to support the connecting members (28) in a stable vertical position.

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