Emergency partitioning device for a passage, such as a corridor or a door, and method of implementation.

Abstract

The invention proposes a device for emergency partitioning of a passage. It comprises a rigid frame comprising a front face provided with a groove for fixing an edge of flexible closure elements (B1, B2). The frame comprises uprights fixed to the walls at a determined distance from the floor, an upper crosspiece fixed to the ceiling and an intermediate crosspiece fixed between the ceiling and the floor, and which delimit a transom closed by a first flexible closure element (B1) and a lower passage between the transom and the floor. The frame comprises a second closure element (B2) fixed to the intermediate crosspiece and to a threshold bar capable of being reversibly fixed between the floor and the uprights of the frame to close the passage. The lateral edges of the second closure element (B2) are each fixed to an upright of the frame in the activated position. . Figure for abstract: Fig. 1

Description

Title of the invention: Device for emergency partitioning of a passage, such as a corridor or a door, and method of implementation.

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for emergency partitioning of a passage, such as a corridor or a door, and to a method of implementation.

[0002] The partitioning device concerned by the invention is of the type comprising a frame, generally made up of a plurality of longitudinal elements, preferably profiled, on which a flexible tarpaulin-type sealing element is fixed.

[0003] In the present invention, the term "frame" means a rigid structure capable of holding the flexible closure element. However, it is not essential that the structure be closed on itself at all times. For example, the frame may thus comprise two vertical uprights, and an intermediate crosspiece in the inactivated position, and be closed on itself and further comprise a threshold bar in the activated position.

[0004] Document WO2015140301 describes a partitioning device used for to close an opening, such as a door or a corridor, for example during construction work.

[0005] This device essentially comprises four telescopic profiles arranged, in use, on the right, left, top and bottom of the opening in order to constitute a closed frame for holding a sealing tarpaulin.

[0006] The profiles each comprise at least one groove arranged such that, in the position of use, the frame thus formed has at least a first frontal peripheral groove intended to allow the fixing of a tarpaulin. Advantageously, the profiles comprise a second groove arranged such that the frame formed has a second lateral peripheral groove directed towards the interior of the space delimited by the frame.

[0007] The sealing tarpaulin is fixed by pinching on the frame by means of a J seal inserted by force into the front peripheral groove. This tarpaulin advantageously comprises a zippered opening arranged to create a temporary opening allowing the passage of workers.

[0008] The profiles are rigidly connected, by clamping, at the four corners by rigid L-shaped corner pieces, then a flat spring is optionally fixed in the lateral peripheral groove. Due to the rigid fixing between a vertical profile (right or left), a rigid L-shaped junction piece and a horizontal profile (top or bottom), each spring exerts a thrust on each vertical and horizontal upright so that they bear against the sides and the ceiling of the opening.

[0009] Such a device is used in the context of works, for example renovation of a room in a building, which are known to be a source of dust, sometimes very volatile, which can invade and / or spread into other rooms of the building directly connected to the room under work.

[0010] The dust in question can sometimes have polluting or toxic properties, and are therefore dangerous, due to their particle size and / or their physicochemical nature.

[0011] For example, in the case of asbestos removal work from a building, there is a generation of dust or fine asbestos residues which must under no circumstances be released into the environment outside the premises under construction.

[0012] While the device described in document WO2015140301 ensures perfect sealing between the rooms by blocking the access doors, it requires installation lasting several tens of minutes by a professional. Furthermore, this installation is intended to last the entire duration of the work, so that the passage is partitioned off for this entire time before its complete dismantling.

[0013] However, there are applications for which it would be desirable to provide a fixed, but removable (i.e. it is not sealed or integrated into the masonry or into the structure of the door but it can be removed / uninstalled without damaging the masonry) closure device for a passage such as a corridor or a door and which can be unfolded / folded between two positions: an inactivated position in which the system is retracted and the passage is free, and an activated position in which the frame is closed and obstructed by a tarpaulin (advantageously provided with a sealed sliding opening).

[0014] In particular, hospitals must be able to urgently partition certain passageways to enable the isolation of entire departments in the event of a health crisis, for example as part of nuclear, radiological and biological (NRB) threat prevention plans.

[0015] However, adapting the layout of hospitals to these plans can be very expensive, very time-consuming and require work that requires access to the area concerned to be temporarily blocked while the work is being carried out.

[0016] For example, this work could consist of adding fire doors, but this requires a modification of the masonry and therefore difficult and costly work.

[0017] Furthermore, some countries have standards that may even prevent these arrangements. For example, corridors must meet dimensional standards that make them impossible to structurally modify to include additional doors.

[0018] The present invention aims to propose a fixed, but removable solution, that is to say without modifying the masonry, to be changed or repaired, capable of closing a wide and high passage, which can be activated in an emergency, that is to say in a few minutes and by non-specialized personnel and not equipped with specific equipment such as a screwdriver or a stepladder.

[0019] Another objective of the invention is to provide an emergency sealing system capable of ensuring continuity of sealing of the tarpaulin fixing during activation.

[0020] Another objective of the invention is to provide an emergency closure system whose cover is protected in the inactivated position so as not to be damaged or receive dust.

[0021] Another object of the invention is to provide an emergency shutoff system which can easily be switched from the inactivated position to the activated position and vice versa, to enable personnel training in simulation exercises, or to enable inspection, without having to change the system.

[0022] To this end, the invention relates to a device for emergency partitioning of a passage of the type delimited by a floor, a ceiling and two walls, comprising, with reference to the position of use, a rigid frame formed of vertical and transverse longitudinal elements, each longitudinal element comprising a front face provided with at least one longitudinal groove for fixing an edge of a flexible closure element, such as a tarpaulin, device in which the frame comprises uprights intended to be fixed to the walls so that a lower end of the uprights is arranged at a determined distance from the floor, an upper crosspiece intended to be fixed to the ceiling and an intermediate crosspiece intended to be fixed between the ceiling and the floor, crosspieces which delimit: - an upper transom closed by a first flexible sealing element, and - a lower passage between the transom and the floor; the frame comprising a second closing element of which a first transverse edge is intended to be fixed to the intermediate crosspiece of the transom and a second transverse edge is intended to be fixed to a longitudinal element constituting a movable threshold bar capable of being fixed, by at least one reversible stop and fixing member, between the floor and the uprights of the frame to reversibly close the passage, a first and a second lateral edge of the second closing element each being fixed to an upright of the frame when the device is in the activated position

[0023] According to particular embodiments: • the sleeper can include: - two longitudinal wall elements intended to be fixed to a wall to form uprights, - a first transverse longitudinal element intended to be fixed to the ceiling to form an upper crosspiece connecting the two uprights, - a second transverse longitudinal element intended to be fixed between the two uprights, at a determined height from the ground to form an intermediate crosspiece delimiting the transom towards the ceiling, and the passage towards the ground; - a third transverse longitudinal element forming the movable threshold bar, and fixed to the second transverse edge of the second closure element; • the partitioning device may further comprise a fourth transverse longitudinal element intended to be fixed under and in contact with the second transverse longitudinal element to together form the intermediate crosspiece, the second transverse edge of the second closing element being fixed to the fourth transverse longitudinal element. • the longitudinal wall elements can each be in two parts, each part being spaced from the other by one end of the intermediate crosspiece. • the device may further comprise elements for supporting the second closure element in the inactivated position, against the intermediate crosspiece of the transom. • the support elements of the second shutter element may be configured to further protect the second shutter element from dust in the inactivated position. • the support elements of the second sealing element may also be waterproof and washable; • the support elements of the second closure element may consist of a sleeve having a first free edge provided with a sealed sliding opening and a second free edge for attachment to the intermediate crosspiece on either side of the first transverse edge of the second closure element, the sleeve being shaped to receive and protect the second closure element wound on itself around the threshold bar, in the inactivated position; • the sleeve can also be shaped to accommodate joints for fixing the second sealing element to the uprights of the frame, in the activated position; • the support elements of the second closure element may consist of a box extending from wall to wall, in the position of use, and comprising two lateral flanks extending face to face each against an opposite wall, a transverse front face extending between the walls and connecting the lateral flanks, a dorsal partition opposite the front face, a cover fixed to the intermediate crosspiece, and a base on which the second closure element rests wound on itself around the threshold bar, in the inactivated position, the box comprising a first fixed part intended to be fixed to each wall and to the intermediate crosspiece, and comprising the two lateral flanks, the dorsal partition and the cover, and a second part pivotally mounted frontally on the first part, the second part comprising at least one part the front face and at least part of the base, such that in the open position, the base pivots and releases the second closure element which can unroll by gravity; • the box may further comprise props intended to be arranged between the box and the threshold bar to press the threshold bar against the ground; • the longitudinal wall elements and the transverse longitudinal elements of the transom can be fixed by brackets or by joining pieces comprising a front face provided with two curved longitudinal grooves each capable of connecting a groove of a longitudinal wall element with a groove of a transverse longitudinal element; • the reversible stop and fixing member may comprise a stop plate arranged at the lower end of each upright, against a face opposite the front face and protruding below the lower end of the upright which is arranged at the determined distance from the ground; • the reversible stop and fixing member may further comprise a member for fixing the threshold bar under the lower end of each upright; • the reversible stop and fixing member may further comprise a spring blade intended to be fixed between an upright and the threshold bar; • the fixing member may be chosen from a latch, a lug or a pin intended to enter an orifice in the threshold bar or vice versa, and a male / female part intended to cooperate with a complementary female / male part carried by the uprights and / or the threshold bar; • the or each longitudinal groove may be shaped to be able to receive an edge of at least one sealing element and a seal for force-fitting said edge in the longitudinal groove; • the or each longitudinal groove may be shaped to be able to receive an edge of a closure element, the second free edge for fixing the sleeve to the intermediate crosspiece, and a seal for fixing the edge of the closure element and the fixing strip in the longitudinal groove; • the or each longitudinal groove may be shaped to be able to receive only the second free edge for fixing the sleeve to the intermediate crosspiece and a seal for fixing the second free edge of the sleeve in the longitudinal groove; • in the inactivated position, an upper transverse edge of the second closure element can be fixed in a groove of the transom by a fixing joint, and only an upper portion of each lateral edge of the second closure element is fixed in a groove of an upright of the frame by a portion of fixing joint, said portion of fixing joint being held against each upright by force in the groove and by a retaining member preventing the joint from coming out by force from the groove; and / or • the seal retainer may include a clip, screw or pin.

[0024] The invention also relates to a method for implementing the preceding device for urgently obstructing a passage, the method comprising the following steps: A) inactivation of the support means of the second closure element to release said second closure element; B) passage of the ends of the threshold bar under the lower ends of the uprights until they are in abutment against the reversible stop and fixing member; C) activation of the reversible stop and fixing member to fix the threshold bar under the uprights; D) insertion of the lateral edges of the second sealing element into the longitudinal grooves of the uprights; and E) forcefully inserting a fixing joint so as to wedge the side edges into the longitudinal grooves of the uprights in a watertight manner.

[0025] Other characteristics of the invention will be set out in the detailed description below, given with reference to the appended drawings, which represent, respectively:

[0026] [Fig. 1], a schematic perspective view of a first embodiment of a emergency partitioning device according to the invention, in the inactivated position, in which the uprights are in a single part, the intermediate crosspiece being fixed on the sides of the uprights, the device comprising a tarpaulin wrapped around a threshold bar, and kept suspended from the intermediate crosspiece of the transom;

[0027] [Fig.2], a schematic perspective view of the first embodiment of [Fig.l], in the activated position, in which the tarpaulin is stretched and fixed in a watertight manner to the uprights of the device;

[0028] [Fig.3], a schematic perspective view of a second embodiment of a emergency partitioning device according to the invention, in the inactivated position, in which the uprights are in two parts, on either side of the intermediate crosspiece which is fixed to the ends of the uprights;

[0029] [Fig.4], a schematic perspective view of the first embodiment of the [Fig.3], in activated position;

[0030] [Fig.5], a partial schematic front view of an example of fixing the crosspiece intermediate to the amounts of the first embodiment of figures 1 and 2;

[0031] [Fig.6], a partial schematic front view of a first variant of fixing of the intermediate crosspiece to the uprights of the second embodiment of figures 3 and 4;

[0032] [Fig.7], a partial schematic front view of a second variant of fixing of the intermediate crosspiece to the uprights of the second embodiment of figures 3 and 4;

[0033] [Fig.8], a schematic view in longitudinal section along line VIII-VIII of a emergency partitioning device according to the invention in the inactivated position, before activation;

[0034] [Fig.9], a schematic view in longitudinal section of a device for emergency partitioning according to the invention being activated;

[0035] [Fig. 10], a schematic view in longitudinal section along line XX of an emergency partitioning device according to the invention in the activated position;

[0036] [Fig. 11], a schematic perspective view of an example of fixing the threshold bar under the uprights of the device according to the invention, in the activated position;

[0037] [Fig. 12], a schematic view in longitudinal section of an alternative embodiment of an emergency partitioning device according to the invention in the inactivated position, before activation, and comprising a protective box for the closure element;

[0038] [Fig. 13], a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the emergency partitioning device of [Fig.12] during activation;

[0039] [Fig. 14], a schematic longitudinal sectional view of the emergency partitioning device of [Fig. 13] in the activated position; and

[0040] [Fig. 15], a schematic perspective view of an emergency partitioning device equipped with a protective box during activation.

[0041] [Fig.l] illustrates an emergency partitioning device according to the invention, installed in a passage delimited by a floor S, a ceiling P and two walls M. In the remainder of the description, the passage described is a corridor.

[0042] The device according to the invention is described hereinafter with reference to this position of use by referring to the walls, the ceiling and the floor, but, of course, these structures of the passage nor the passage itself are not part of the invention. These references to the structures of the passage therefore serve only to describe the device according to the invention with reference to its position of use, whether it is in the inactivated position, that is to say in the standard position requiring no partitioning of the corridor, or in the activated position in which the device partitions the corridor.

[0043] According to the invention, the device 100 comprises a rigid frame 101 formed of vertical and transverse longitudinal elements 101a.

[0044] Each longitudinal element 101a comprising a front face provided with at least one longitudinal groove 101b for fixing an edge of a flexible closure element B1-B2, such as a tarpaulin.

[0045] Preferably, the longitudinal elements are made up of metal profiles cut to the dimensions of the corridor.

[0046] Since the device according to the invention is intended to be permanently installed (even if it can be removed without having to modify the masonry), the profiles can be adjusted to the height of the walls and the width of the corridor by cutting the profiles during installation. Alternatively, the longitudinal elements can each be made up of at least two telescopic profiles allowing adjustment to the measurement.

[0047] According to one aspect of the invention, the frame 101, once installed in the corridor, comprises uprights 102 fixed to the walls M in such a way that a lower end 102a of the uprights 102 is arranged at a determined distance dl from the ground.

[0048] The frame of the device according to the invention further comprises an upper crosspiece 103 intended to be fixed to the ceiling P and an intermediate crosspiece 104 intended to be fixed between the ceiling P and the floor S, at a determined height hl sufficient from the floor so that an adult of standard size can touch it without having to use a stepladder.

[0049] Typically, the determined height hl is between 2 meters and 2.2 meters. The determined height hl is advantageously that of standard doors, i.e. 2.04 meters in France.

[0050] The crosspieces 103 and 104 thus delimit an upper transom 110 which is closed by a first flexible closure element B1 during installation. As described below, the closure element B1 is fixed peripherally all around the transom by wedging the transverse and lateral edges of the flexible closure element in the groove of the longitudinal elements which constitute the structure, by means of a peripheral deformable joint J.

[0051] The crosspiece 104 also delimits, between the transom and the ground, a lower passage 120.

[0052] In the inactivated position, this lower passage 120 is free.

[0053] According to the invention, the frame 101 also comprises a second closing element B2, the arrangement of which depends on the activated or inactivated position.

[0054] Generally speaking, the second closing element B2 has a first upper transverse edge B2a (with reference to the activated position, see [Fig.2]) which is fixed to the intermediate crosspiece 104 of the transom 110 and a second lower transverse edge B2b which is fixed to a longitudinal element 101a constituting a movable threshold bar 105 capable of being fixed, by at least one reversible stop and fixing member 140, between the floor S and the uprights 102 of the frame 101 to reversibly close the lower passage in the activated position (see [Fig.2]).

[0055] In [Fig. 1] which illustrates the inactivated position, the second closure element B2 is wound around the threshold bar 105 which is shown in dotted lines, and held suspended from the intermediate crosspiece 104 of the transom 110.

[0056] In the activated position, illustrated in [Fig.2], the second closure element B2 is fixed to the frame in a peripheral and sealed manner. In other words, a first and a second lateral edge of the second closure element B2 are each fixed to an upright of the frame when the device is in the activated position.

[0057] Thus, the frame 101 of the device 100 according to the invention comprises:

[0058] - two longitudinal wall elements 101a intended to be fixed each to a wall to form the amounts 102,

[0059] - a first longitudinal transverse element 101a intended to be fixed to the ceiling P to form the upper crosspiece 103 connecting the two uprights 102,

[0060] - a second transverse longitudinal element 101a intended to be fixed between the two uprights 102, at a determined height hl from the floor S to form an intermediate crosspiece 104 which delimits the impost 110 towards the ceiling, and the lower passage 120 towards the floor S; and

[0061] - a third transverse longitudinal element 101a forming the movable threshold bar 105, and fixed to the lower transverse edge B2b of the second closure element B2.

[0062] Preferably, the frame 101 of the device 100 according to the invention may further comprise, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, a fourth transverse longitudinal element 101a intended to be fixed under and in contact with the second transverse longitudinal element 101a to together form the intermediate crosspiece 104. In this case, the second lower transverse edge B2b of the second closure element B2 is fixed to the fourth transverse longitudinal element.

[0063] The intermediate crosspiece 104 therefore comprises either one or two longitudinal elements 101a. When it comprises only one longitudinal element, it is advantageously provided with two longitudinal grooves for fixing an edge of a tarpaulin: the first longitudinal groove receives the lower transverse edge B2b of the first closing element B1 of the transom 110, and the second longitudinal groove receives the upper transverse edge B2a of the second closing element B2.

[0064] Figures 1 and 2 illustrate a first embodiment of the device according to the invention, in which the uprights are in a single part, the intermediate crosspiece 104 (comprising one or two transverse longitudinal elements 101a) being fixed to the sides of the uprights 102.

[0065] An example of attachment is illustrated in an enlarged manner in [Fig.5], where one end of the intermediate crosspiece 104 is attached to the upright 102 by one, preferably two brackets 106.

[0066] This embodiment is simple since the uprights 102 are in a single part. The installation kit therefore contains few parts. However, the entire weight of the intermediate cross member 104, as well as the other forces that it exerts in use by the air pressure on the sealing elements B1 and B2 rests only on the brackets 106.

[0067] Figures 3 and 4 illustrate a second, more resistant embodiment, in which the uprights 102 are in two parts 102a-102b and the intermediate crosspiece 104 rests on the end of the lower segment 102a of each upright 102.

[0068] An example of attachment is illustrated enlarged in [Fig.6]. In this embodiment, the longitudinal wall elements 101a are each in two parts, each part 102a-102b being spaced from the other by one end of the intermediate crosspiece 104.

[0069] As previously, the intermediate crosspiece 104 is held in position by brackets 106.

[0070] This embodiment is more resistant, because the lower segment 102a of the uprights supports the weight of the intermediate crosspiece as well as a large part of the other forces mentioned above.

[0071] In combination, in addition to the brackets 106, the device may include, but is not obligatory, spring blades 107 engaged above and below the intermediate crosspiece 104 and on the upright 102. These blades increase the rigidity of the assembly.

[0072] [Fig.7] illustrates a preferred embodiment, in which upper 102b and lower 102a segments of the uprights 102 are fixed to the intermediate crosspiece 104 by means of T-shaped connecting pieces 108 comprising a front face provided with two curved longitudinal grooves 108a-108b, each capable of connecting a groove of a longitudinal wall element with a groove of a transverse longitudinal element.

[0073] More particularly, each T-shaped junction piece 108 comprises a front face provided with two curved longitudinal grooves 108a-108b, one 108a which is capable of connecting the lower segment groove 102a of the upright 102 with a lower groove 104a of the intermediate crosspiece 104 (which receives the second closing element B2), and one 108b which is capable of connecting the upper segment groove 102b of the upright 102 with an upper groove 104b of the intermediate crosspiece 104 (which receives the first closing element B1).

[0074] As before, it is possible, although not obligatory, to add a leaf spring above and below the intermediate crosspiece 104, connected to the segments of the upright 102.

[0075] The structure of the support of the partitioning device according to the invention being installed, the installer adds the first closing element B1 at the level of the transom 110. To do this, he inserts the edges of the closing element B1 into the grooves of the longitudinal elements delimiting the transom 110.

[0076] To this end, it is preferable to provide in the intermediate crosspiece 104, two parallel grooves: an upper groove 104b for the lower edge of the first closing element B1, and a lower groove 104a (with reference to gravity) at least for the upper transverse edge B2a of the second closing element B2.

[0077] Once the first closure element B1 is installed and the transom 110 is sealed, the installer inserts the upper transverse edge B2a of the second closure element B2 into the notch of the intermediate crosspiece 104, preferably the lower notch 104a.

[0078] It then fixes the upper transverse edge B2a of the second closure element B2 by forcibly inserting at least one seal J into the groove 104a. Preferably, before inserting the seal J, it is possible to provide staples such as those described in document EP2921611 under the terms “retaining means 34”.

[0079] Once the second closure element B2 is fixed to the intermediate crosspiece 104, it is stretched towards the ground and possibly cut to size by cutting it. Then, it inserts the lower edge of the second closure element B2 into the groove of the threshold bar and fixes it by forcing a seal J into the groove.

[0080] The installer can then wrap the second sealing element B2 around the threshold bar 105 going up towards the intermediate crosspiece 104.

[0081] Thus, in the inactivated position, the device comprises a closure element B2 wound around the threshold bar 105, and held suspended from the intermediate crosspiece 104 of the transom 110 by support elements 130.

[0082] These may be, as in figures 1 to 4, support strips 131.

[0083] However, such strips 131 do not protect the sealing element against dust or atmospheric elements.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the support elements 130 completely surround the second closure element B2 wound on itself and are washable. More preferably, the support elements 130 completely enclose the second closure element B2 wound on itself in an airtight and / or moisture-tight manner.

[0085] An exemplary embodiment is illustrated in Figures 8 to 10, in which the support elements 130 of the second closure element B2 are constituted by a sleeve 132 having a first free edge 132a and provided with a sealed closing means 133, for example a sealed sliding opening.

[0086] The sleeve further comprises a second free edge 132b for attachment to the intermediate crosspiece 104 on either side of the first transverse edge of the second closure element B2. The sleeve 132 is shaped to receive and protect the second closure element B2 wound on itself around the threshold bar 105, in the inactivated position.

[0087] Advantageously, the sleeve is also shaped to house joints for fixing the second closure element B2 along the uprights 102 of the frame, in the activated position.

[0088] Figures 8, 9 and 10 illustrate three stages of activation of the emergency partitioning device according to the invention.

[0089] In [Fig.8], the device is in the inactivated position. The second closure element B2 is wound on itself around the threshold bar 105 and enclosed in the sleeve 132. It is thus supported and protected against the intermediate crosspiece of the transom, that is to say suspended from the intermediate crosspiece and held nearby, just below.

[0090] The underpass is therefore free and nothing prevents the passage of people or objects.

[0091] At the start of activation, illustrated in [Fig.8], the slide opening is open and the roller of the second closure element falls by gravity towards the ground.

[0092] This step is very quick, because given the height hl of the intermediate crosspiece, the user does not need a stepladder to open the sleeve 132 or more generally to deactivate the support means 130. In addition, thanks to the weight of the threshold bar, the second closure element unrolls by itself.

[0093] It then remains to slide the threshold bar 105 between the floor S and the uprights 102 of the frame, that is to say under the lower ends of the uprights 102, as illustrated in [Fig. 10], to tension the second closing element B2.

[0094] The user then activates at least one reversible stop and fixing member, which will be described later, and fixes the lateral edges of the second closure element B2 against the uprights 102 by means of a seal inserted by force into the groove of the uprights 102.

[0095] The lower passage, located under the intermediate crosspiece, is then sealed off in a sealed manner by the second sealing element B2, which results in the partitioning of the corridor.

[0096] In a preferred embodiment, the seal fixing the upper edge of the second closure element B2 on the intermediate crosspiece 104 is continuous and extends laterally by a seal length sufficient to fix the lateral edges of the second closure element against each upright 102 in the activated position.

[0097] Thus, in the inactivated position, these lengths of seals J on either side of the second closure element are supported in the support elements (and preferably protected when it is a sleeve 132).

[0098] In this case, an upper transverse edge of the second closure element B2 is fixed in a groove of the transom by a fixing joint, and only an upper portion of each lateral edge of the second closure element B2 is fixed in a groove of an upright of the frame by a portion of fixing joint.

[0099] According to the invention, the device further comprises a retaining member preventing said portion of fixing seal held against each upright from forcibly coming out of the groove, for example when the second closure element is rolled up on itself to put it in the inactive position. The seal retaining member comprises, for example, a clamp, a screw or a pin, a spring-loaded pin, etc.

[0100] This makes it possible to maintain a lateral fixing start of the second closure element B2 against the uprights 102, which facilitates the finalization of the fixing to reach the activated position.

[0101] [Fig. 11] illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a reversible stop and fixing member intended to hold the threshold bar in the activated position, i.e. under the uprights and in contact with the ground.

[0102] The term "reversible stop and fixing member" means a fixing member forming both a position stop for the threshold bar in the partitioning position (following and holding in position relative to the uprights) and a reversible fixing means for this threshold bar in the partitioning position.

[0103] In this exemplary embodiment, each upright is provided with a reversible stop and fixing member 140 which comprises a stop plate 141 arranged at the lower end of the upright, against a face opposite the front face carrying the groove.

[0104] The stop plate 141 protrudes below the lower end of the upright which carries it, and which is arranged at the determined distance dl from the ground.

[0105] Thanks to this stop plate 141, the user can push the threshold bar as far as possible under the uprights, without having to take care of its positioning under the uprights. This stop also prevents the threshold bar from moving in its direction during the activated position (for example in the event of a gust of wind against the closing elements B1-B2.

[0106] The reversible stop and fixing member 140 further comprises a fixing member 142 for the threshold bar 105 under the lower end of each upright.

[0107] In the example illustrated in [Fig.l 1], the fixing member is a latch 142, but other structures can be chosen, such as for example a lug or a pin intended to enter an orifice of the threshold bar or vice versa, or even a male / female part intended to cooperate with a complementary female / male part carried by the uprights and / or the threshold bar.

[0108] In one possible embodiment, the reversible stop and fixing member 140 may further comprise a spring blade 143 intended to be fixed between an upright 102 and the threshold bar 105.

[0109] These leaf springs 143 are particularly useful at this location, i.e. on each side of the threshold bar 105, because they provide a vertical force additional which forces the threshold bar against the ground and reinforces the sealing of the partition.

[0110] Thus, in general, the partitioning device according to the invention functionally comprises two superimposed frames formed by the longitudinal elements 101a:

[0111] The first frame is closed in both the activated and deactivated positions to form a transom. It comprises two first longitudinal wall elements each intended to be fixed to a wall, a first transverse longitudinal element intended to be fixed transversely to the ceiling, and a second transverse longitudinal element intended to be fixed transversely between the two walls under the first wall elements, between the ceiling and the floor, to form an intermediate crosspiece.

[0112] The second frame is not closed in the inactivated position (the threshold bar is housed at the level of the intermediate crosspiece), and closed in the activated position, when the threshold bar is fixed under the uprights 102.

[0113] The partitioning device according to the invention is economical, easy to install and above all easy and quick to activate if necessary.

[0114] It can be dismantled if necessary, and is particularly, although not exclusively, suitable for the hospital sector in order to partition off part of the hospital very quickly.

[0115] The flexible sealing elements, in particular the second one, can easily be covered with useful visual information in the event of partitioning: warning, alternative evacuation plan, etc.

[0116] A device according to the invention is therefore particularly useful in this field, because its activation is rapid and allows personnel to devote themselves to other urgent tasks.

[0117] Furthermore, its ease of implementation allows anyone to activate it, without any particular skills, without tools, and without putting themselves in a risky position (for example balancing on a stepladder).

[0118] It can be adapted to any passage, thanks to the transom which allows the activatable part to be lowered to the height of an average person.

[0119] Furthermore, its maintenance is easy, because only the sleeve needs to be cleaned, the second sealing element being protected.

[0120] Emergency partitioning includes the following steps:

[0121] A) inactivation of the support means 130-131-132 of the second closure element B2 to release said second closure element B2;

[0122] B) passing the ends of the threshold bar under the lower ends of the uprights until they are in abutment against the reversible abutment and fixing member;

[0123] C) activation of the reversible stop and fixing member to fix the threshold bar under the uprights;

[0124] D) insertion of the lateral edges of the second closure element B2 into the longitudinal grooves of the uprights; and

[0125] E) forcefully inserting a fixing seal so as to wedge the lateral edges in the longitudinal grooves of the uprights in a sealed manner.

[0126] According to embodiments not illustrated:

[0127] - the or each longitudinal groove of the longitudinal elements constituting the intermediate crosspiece is shaped to be able to receive an edge of at least one closing element B1, B2 and a seal for force-fitting said edge in the longitudinal groove;

[0128] - the or each longitudinal groove of the longitudinal elements constituting the crosspiece intermediate is shaped to be able to receive an edge of a closure element B1, B2, all or part of the second free edge for fixing the sleeve to the intermediate crosspiece, and a seal for fixing the edge of the closure element Bl, B2 and the fixing strip in the longitudinal groove;

[0129] - the or each longitudinal groove of the longitudinal elements constituting the crosspiece intermediate is shaped to be able to receive only the second free edge for fixing the sleeve to the intermediate crosspiece and a seal for fixing the second free edge of the sleeve in the longitudinal groove.

[0130] Figures 12 to 15 illustrate another embodiment of the support elements of the second closure element B2.

[0131] In this embodiment, the support elements of the second closure element B2 are constituted by a box 230 extending from wall to wall.

[0132] The box 230 comprises two lateral flanks 231 (see [Fig. 15]) extending face to face, each against an opposite wall M (not shown for the sake of clarity), a transverse front face 232, extending between the walls M and connecting the lateral flanks 231, a dorsal partition 233 opposite the front face 232, a cover 234 fixed to the intermediate crosspiece 104, and a base 235 on which rests the second closure element B2 wound on itself around the threshold bar 105, in the inactivated position.

[0133] According to the invention, the box 230 comprises a first fixed part 230A intended to be fixed to each wall and to the intermediate crosspiece 104, and a second part 230B pivotally mounted frontally on the first fixed part 230A. By "frontally" is meant that the pivot 236 between the fixed part 230A and the pivoting part 230B is located, seen in longitudinal section along the line XX, on the side of the front face of the longitudinal elements, that is to say on the side of the longitudinal groove 101b.

[0134] The first fixed part of the box 230 comprises the two lateral sides 231, the dorsal partition 233 and the cover 234. The second part comprises at least one part of the front face 232 and at least one part of the base 235.

[0135] Thus, in the open position, the base 235 pivots at the same time as the front face (in whole or in part depending on whether the pivot 236 is located at the junction of the cover 234 and the front face 232, or whether it is located, as illustrated in the figures, within the front face 232). The base 235 thus tilted releases the second closure element B2 which can unroll by gravity.

[0136] As previously, the threshold bar 105 is fixed as for the embodiment of figures 8 to 10 in order to arrange the closing element B2.

[0137] Then, the pivoting part 230B of the box 230 is returned to the closed position (see [Fig. 14]). Advantageously, the box comprises magnets 237 to hold the pivoting part 230B against the fixed part 230A.

[0138] The box, due to its rigidity and mechanical resistance, makes it possible to accommodate support props, in particular when the emergency partitioning device according to the invention is fitted to a very wide passage.

[0139] Thus, once the threshold bar 105 is installed under the lower ends of the uprights, the user moves to the dorsal side of the device (i.e. to the other side of the closure element B2, to the side opposite the front faces of the longitudinal uprights 102, then installs the props in support between the box 230 and the threshold bar 105, which makes it possible to press the threshold bar against the ground and prevents the latter from bending upwards, driven by the closure element B2 for example in the event of a draft.

[0140] The box may comprise a set of seals which make it airtight in the closed position, thus protecting the closure element B2 wound on itself around the threshold bar 105 from dust.

[0141] In the box, the closure element B2 is pre-installed on the intermediate crosspiece 104 contained in the box and on the part of the vertical uprights 102 housed in the box. This means that the lateral edges and the upper transverse edge of the closure element B2 are inserted into the groove of the front faces and locked in position using the part J1 of the seal J inserted by force into the grooves.

[0142] The remaining part J2 of the seal of the joint J which is not yet fixed is housed with the closing element B2 wound on itself around the threshold bar 105 in the box 230.

[0143] When the latter is opened, the remaining part J2 of the seal J is also released, and all that remains for the user to do is to continue to fix the lateral edges of the element sealing B2 on the front faces of the uprights 102 by forcing the seal into the grooves.

Claims

1.

2. Claims Emergency partitioning device for a passage of the type delimited by a floor (S), a ceiling (P) and two walls (M), comprising, with reference to the position of use, a rigid frame (101) formed of vertical and transverse longitudinal elements (101a), each longitudinal element comprising a front face provided with at least one longitudinal groove (101b) for fixing an edge of a flexible closure element (B1, B2), such as a tarpaulin, characterized in that the frame (101) comprises uprights (102) intended to be fixed to the walls (M) so that a lower end (102a) of the uprights (102) is arranged at a determined distance (d1) from the floor (S), an upper crosspiece (103) intended to be fixed to the ceiling (P) and an intermediate crosspiece (104) intended to be fixed between the ceiling (P) and the floor (S), crosspieces which delimit: - an upper transom (110) closed by a first flexible closing element (Bl), and - a lower passage (120) between the transom and the ground (S); the frame (101) comprising a second closing element (B2) of which a first transverse edge (B2a) is intended to be fixed to the intermediate crosspiece (104) of the transom (110) and a second transverse edge (B2b) is intended to be fixed to a longitudinal element (101a) constituting a movable threshold bar (105) capable of being fixed, by at least one reversible stop and fixing member (140), between the floor (S) and the uprights (102) of the frame (101) to reversibly close the passage, a first and a second lateral edge of the second closing element (B2) each being fixed to an upright (102) of the frame (101) when the device is in the activated position. Partitioning device according to claim 1, in which the frame (101) comprises: - two longitudinal wall elements (101a) each intended to be fixed to a wall to form uprights (102), - a first transverse longitudinal element (101a) intended to be fixed to the ceiling (P) to form an upper crosspiece (103) connecting the two uprights (102), - a second transverse longitudinal element (101a) intended to be fixed between the two uprights (102), at a determined height from the ground (S) to form an intermediate crosspiece (104) delimiting the transom (110) towards the ceiling (P), and the passage towards the floor (S); - a third transverse longitudinal element (101a) forming the movable threshold bar (105), and fixed to the second transverse edge (B2b) of the second closing element (B2).

3. Partitioning device according to claim 2, further comprising a fourth transverse longitudinal element (101a) intended to be fixed under and in contact with the second transverse longitudinal element (101a) to form together the intermediate crosspiece (104), the second transverse edge (B2b) of the second closing element (B2) being fixed to the fourth transverse longitudinal element (101a).

4. A partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the longitudinal wall elements (101a) are each in two parts, each part being spaced from the other by one end of the intermediate crosspiece (104).

5. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising support elements (130) of the second closing element (B2) in the inactivated position, against the intermediate crosspiece (104) of the transom (110).

6. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, in which the support elements (130) of the second closure element (B2) are configured to, in addition, protect the second closure element (B2) from dust in the inactivated position.

7. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, in which the support elements (130) of the second closure element (B2) are furthermore watertight and washable.

8. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, in which the support elements (130) of the second closure element (B2) are constituted by a sleeve (132) having a first free edge (132a) and provided with a sealed sliding opening (133) and a second free edge (132b) for fixing to the intermediate crosspiece (104) on either side of the first transverse edge (B2a) of the second closure element (B2), the sleeve (132) being shaped to receive and protect the second closure element (B2) wound on itself around the threshold bar (105), in the inactivated position.

9. A partitioning device according to the preceding claim, wherein the sleeve (132) is also shaped to house fixing joints (J) of the second closure element (B2) on the uprights (102) of the frame (101), in the activated position.

10. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 5 to 7, in which the support elements (130) of the second closure element (B2) are constituted by a box (230) extending from wall to wall, in the position of use, and comprising two lateral flanks (231) extending face to face each against an opposite wall (M), a transverse front face (232) extending between the walls (M) and connecting the lateral flanks (231), a dorsal partition (233) opposite the front face, a cover (234) fixed to the intermediate crosspiece (104), and a base (235) on which the second closure element (B2) rests, wound on itself around the threshold bar (105), in the inactivated position, the box (230) comprising a first fixed part (230A) intended to be fixed to each wall and to the intermediate crosspiece (104), and comprising the two lateral sides, the dorsal partition and the cover,and a second part (230B) pivotably mounted frontally on the first part, the second part comprising at least one part of the front face and at least one part of the base, such that in the open position, the base (235) pivots and releases the second closure element (B2) which can unroll by gravity.,

11. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, in which the box further comprises props intended to be arranged between the box and the threshold bar to press the threshold bar against the ground.

12. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, in which the longitudinal wall elements (101a) and the longitudinal transverse elements (101a) of the transom (110) are fixed by brackets (106) or by joining pieces (108) comprising a front face provided with two curved longitudinal grooves (108a, 108b) each capable of connecting a groove (101b) of a longitudinal wall element (101a) with a groove (101b) of a longitudinal transverse element (101a).

13. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 12, in which the reversible stop and fixing member (140) comprises a stop plate (141) arranged at the lower end (102a) of each upright (102), against a face opposite the front face (101b) and protruding below the end lower part (102a) of the upright (102) which is arranged at the determined distance from the ground (S).

14. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, in which the reversible stop and fixing member (140) further comprises a fixing member (142) of the threshold bar (105) under the lower end (102a) of each upright (102).

15. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, in which the reversible stop and fixing member (140) further comprises a spring blade (143) intended to be fixed between an upright (102) and the threshold bar (105).

16. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, in which the fixing member (142) is chosen from a latch, a lug or a pin intended to enter an orifice of the threshold bar (105) or vice versa, and a male / female part intended to cooperate with a complementary female / male part carried by the uprights (102) and / or the threshold bar (105).

17. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, in which the or each longitudinal groove (101b) is shaped to be able to receive an edge of at least one closing element (B 1, B2) and a fixing joint (J) for force-fitting said edge in the longitudinal groove (101b).

18. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, in which the or each longitudinal groove (101b) is shaped to be able to receive an edge of a closure element (Bl, B2), the second free edge (132b) for fixing the sleeve (132) to the intermediate crosspiece (104), and a fixing joint (J) of the edge of the closure element (Bl, B2) and of the fixing strip in the longitudinal groove (101b).

19. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, in which the or each longitudinal groove (101b) is shaped to be able to receive only the second free fixing edge (132b) of the sleeve (132) to the intermediate crosspiece (104) and a fixing joint (J) of the second free edge of the sleeve (132) in the longitudinal groove (101b).

20. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 19, in which, in the inactivated position, an upper transverse edge (B2a) of the second closing element (B2) is fixed in a groove of the transom (110) by a fixing joint (J), and only an upper portion of each lateral edge of the second closure element (B2) is fixed in a groove (101b) of an upright (102) of the frame (101) by a fixing joint portion (J), said fixing joint portion (J) being held against each upright (102) by force in the groove (101b) and by a retaining member preventing the joint (J) from coming out by force from the groove (101b).

21. Device according to the preceding claim, in which the seal retaining member (J) comprises a clip, a screw or a pin.

22. Method for emergency partitioning of a passage delimited by a floor (S), a ceiling (P, SP) and walls (M), with an emergency partitioning system according to any one of claims 5 to 21, comprising the following steps: A) inactivation of the support means (130-132) of the second closure element (B2) to release said second closure element (B2); B) passing the ends of the threshold bar (105) under the lower ends of the uprights (102) until they abut against the reversible stop and fixing member (140); C) activation of the reversible stop and fixing member (140) to fix the threshold bar (105) under the uprights (102); D) inserting the lateral edges of the second sealing element (B2) into the longitudinal grooves (101b) of the uprights (102); and E) forcibly inserting a fixing seal (J) so as to wedge the lateral edges into the longitudinal grooves (101b) of the uprights (102) in a sealed manner.

Images