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

Abstract

The invention provides an emergency partitioning device for a passageway. It comprises a rigid frame with a front face having a groove for attaching the edge of a flexible closing element (B1). The device includes a housing (230) comprising a first fixed part (230A) and a second part (230B) pivotally mounted at the front such that, in the open position, it pivots and releases the closing element (B1), which can then unroll by gravity. Figure for the abstract: Fig. 1

Description

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

[0001] The present invention relates to an emergency partitioning device for 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 is fixed a flexible sealing element of the tarpaulin type.

[0003] In the present invention, the term "frame" refers to a rigid structure capable of retaining the flexible sealing element. However, it is not essential that the structure be closed at all times. For example, the frame may comprise two vertical uprights and an upper crossbar in the inactive position, and be closed and further comprise a lower threshold bar in the active position.

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

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

[0006] Each profile comprises at least one groove arranged such that, in the operating position, the frame thus formed has at least one first peripheral front groove for attaching a tarpaulin. Advantageously, the profiles comprise a second groove arranged such that the frame formed has a second peripheral lateral groove directed towards the interior of the space delimited by the frame.

[0007] The sealing tarpaulin is fixed to the frame by means of a clamping joint pressed into the front peripheral groove. This tarpaulin advantageously includes a sliding opening arranged to create a temporary opening allowing workers to pass through.

[0008] The profiles are rigidly connected, by clamping, at the four corners by rigid L-shaped corner pieces, and then a flat spring is optionally fixed in the lateral peripheral groove. Due to the rigid connection between a vertical profile (right or left), a rigid L-shaped connecting 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 ceiling of the opening.

[0009] Such a device is used in the context of work, for example renovation of a room in a building, which is 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 exhibit polluting or toxic properties, and are therefore dangerous, due to their particle size and / or their physico-chemical nature.

[0011] For example, in the case of asbestos removal work in 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 work.

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

[0013] However, there are applications for which it would be desirable to provide a fixed but removable (i.e., not sealed or integrated into the masonry or the door structure but 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 equipped with a watertight sliding opening).

[0014] In particular, hospitals must be able to urgently partition certain passages to allow entire departments to be isolated in the event of a health crisis, for example within the framework of nuclear, radiological, and biological (NRB) threat prevention plans.

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

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

[0017] Furthermore, some countries have standards that may even prohibit such modifications. For example, corridors must meet dimensional standards that make it impossible to structurally alter them to incorporate additional doors.

[0018] The present invention aims to provide a fixed but removable solution, i.e. without modifying the masonry, for changing or repair, capable of blocking a wide and high passage, which can be activated in an emergency, i.e. in a few minutes and by non-specialized personnel 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 that can ensure 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 objective of the invention is to provide an emergency shut-off system that can easily switch from the inactivated position to the activated position and vice versa, to allow staff training in simulation exercises, or to allow inspection, without having to change the system.

[0022] Finally, another objective is to provide an emergency partitioning device that can be activated without requiring additional equipment, such as a ladder or stepladder.

[0023] To this end, the invention relates to an emergency partitioning device for 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 sealing element, such as a tarpaulin, by means of a joint for forcefully fixing said edge in the longitudinal groove, characterized in that: - the frame comprises uprights intended to be fixed to the walls so that one lower end of the uprights is arranged at a predetermined distance from the floor, and an upper rail, - the device further comprises a wall-to-wall extending housing in the operating position, comprising two side panels extending opposite each other against an opposing wall, a transverse front panel extending between the walls and connecting the side panels, a back panel opposite the front panel, a cover fixed against the ceiling, and a base on which rests the shutter element, wound around itself around the threshold bar, in the inactive position, the housing having a first fixed part intended to be fixed to each wall and against the ceiling and comprising the two side panels, the back panel and the cover, and a second part mounted pivoting at the front on the first part, the second pivoting part comprising at least a portion of the base, such that in the open position, the base pivots and releases the shutter element which can unwind by gravity, - the box delimits a passage of determined height between the base of the box and the ground; - the sealing element comprises a first transverse edge intended to be fixed to the upper crossbar and a second transverse edge 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 device, between the floor and the uprights of the frame to reversibly close the passage, a first and a second lateral edge of the sealing element being each fixed to an upright of the frame when the device is in the activated position.

[0024] According to particular embodiments: • the passage may have a height between the base of the box and the ground of between 2 meters and 2.2 meters, preferably between 2.05 meters and 2.15 meters, advantageously 2.1 meters; • The dormant component may include: - two longitudinal wall elements intended to be fixed to a wall each to form uprights, - a transverse longitudinal element intended to be fixed in the box to form an upper crossbar connecting the two uprights, - a second transverse longitudinal element forming the movable threshold bar, and fixed to the second transverse edge of the sealing element; • the casing can also be shaped to house fixing joints for the sealing element on the uprights of the frame, in the activated position; • the longitudinal wall elements of the uprights and the transverse longitudinal element of the top rail can be fixed by brackets or by joining pieces comprising a front face provided with a curved longitudinal groove suitable for connecting a groove of a longitudinal wall element of an upright with a groove of a transverse longitudinal element of the top rail; • the reversible stop and fixing device may include a stop plate arranged at the lower end of each upright, against a back face opposite to the front face and extending below the lower end of the upright which is arranged at the determined distance from the ground; • the reversible stop and fixing device may also include a device for fixing the threshold bar under the lower end of each upright; • the reversible stop and fixing device may also include a spring-loaded blade intended to be fixed between an upright and the threshold bar; • The fastening element can be chosen from a latch, a lug or a pin intended to fit into an opening in the threshold bar or vice versa, and a part male / female intended to cooperate with a complementary female / male part carried by the uprights and / or the threshold bar; • in the inactive position in which the shutter element is rolled up on itself, an upper transverse edge of the shutter element may be fixed in a groove of the upper rail by a fixing gasket, and only an upper portion of each lateral edge of the shutter element is fixed in a groove of a jamb of the frame by a portion of a fixing gasket, said portion of the fixing gasket being held against each jamb by force in the groove and by a retaining device preventing the gasket from being forcibly removed from the groove; and / or • The retaining element of the seal may include a clamp, a screw or a pin.

[0025] The invention also relates to a method for implementing the preceding device to urgently block a passage, the method comprising the following steps: A) pivoting of the pivoting part of the housing to open the housing and release said second shutter element; B) passing the ends of the threshold bar under the lower ends of the uprights until they are against the reversible stop and fixing device; C) activation of the reversible stop and fixing device to fix the threshold bar under the uprights; D) insertion of the lateral edges of the sealing element into the longitudinal grooves of the uprights; and E) Forced insertion of a fixing joint so as to wedge the lateral edges into the longitudinal grooves of the uprights in a watertight manner.

[0026] Other features of the invention will be set out in the detailed description below, made with reference to the accompanying drawings, which represent, respectively:

[0027] [Fig. 1], a schematic perspective view of an example of an embodiment of an emergency partitioning device according to the invention, in the inactivated position, in which the box comprises a tarpaulin wrapped around a threshold bar, protected from dust and kept suspended at a determined distance from the ground by means of the box;

[0028] [Fig.2], a schematic perspective view of the example embodiment of [Fig.1], in the activated position, in which the tarpaulin is stretched and fixed airtight to the uprights of the device, the box being closed;

[0029] [Fig. 3], a partial schematic front view of an example of crossbar attachment greater than the amounts of the device in [Fig.1];

[0030] [Fig.4], a schematic longitudinal sectional view along line IV-IV of a emergency partitioning device according to the invention in the inactivated position, before activation;

[0031] [Fig. 5], a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the partitioning device emergency of the [Fig.4] being activated;

[0032] [Fig.6], a schematic longitudinal cross-sectional view of the partitioning device emergency of the [Fig.5] in activated position;

[0033] [Fig.7], a schematic front perspective view of the housing equipping the device emergency partitioning according to the invention;

[0034] [Fig.8], a schematic front perspective view of a first embodiment of a box according to the invention, in the process of being activated, and in which the pivoting base extends to the back partition and includes notches for the passage of the uprights;

[0035] [Fig.9], a schematic plan view from below of the caisson of the [Fig.8] in closed position;

[0036] [Fig. 10], a schematic front perspective view of the caisson of the [Fig. 8] in position activated before closing the casing;

[0037] [Fig. 11], a schematic front perspective view of the box of the [Fig. 10] after closing the box;

[0038] [Fig. 12], a schematic perspective view of an example of bar fixing threshold under the amounts of the device according to the invention, in the activated position.

[0039] [Fig. 13], a schematic front perspective view of a second mode of construction of a box according to the invention, in the process of activation, and in which the base comprises a pivoting part and a fixed part, integral with the back partition, the fixed part of the base comprising notches for the passage of the uprights;

[0040] [Fig. 14], a schematic plan view from below of the box of the [Fig. 13] in closed position; and

[0041] [Fig. 15], a schematic perspective view of a partitioning device emergency passage of a wide passage, the device includes props suitable for being housed in the caisson.

[0042] In figures 1, 2, 8, 10 and 13, the box is illustrated in transparency (totally or partially) in order to show the structures it houses (uprights 102, upper cross member 103, flexible sealing element Bl, fixing joint J, retaining magnets 237).

[0043] Fig. 1 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.

[0044] The device according to the invention is described hereafter with reference to this position of use by referring to the walls, the ceiling and the floor, but, of course, Neither these passage structures nor the passage itself are part of the invention. These references to the passage structures therefore serve only to describe the device according to the invention by reference to its position of use, whether it is in the inactivated position, i.e. in the standard position not requiring any partitioning of the passage, or in the activated position in which the device partitions the passage.

[0045] According to the invention, the device 100 comprises a rigid frame 101 formed of vertical longitudinal and transverse elements 101a.

[0046] Each longitudinal element 101a comprising a front face 101c having at least one longitudinal groove 101b for fixing an edge of a flexible sealing element B1, such as a tarpaulin, by means of a force fixing joint J of said edge in the longitudinal groove 101b.

[0047] Preferably, the longitudinal elements are made up of metal profiles cut to the dimensions of the corridor.

[0048] Since the device according to the invention is intended to be permanently installed (even though it can be removed without having to modify the masonry), the profiles can be cut to the height of the walls and the width of the corridor during installation. Alternatively, the longitudinal elements can each consist of at least two telescopic profiles allowing for this cutting.

[0049] According to one aspect of the invention, the frame 101, once installed in the corridor, comprises uprights 102 fixed to the walls M so that a lower end 102a of the uprights 102 is arranged at a determined distance dl from the floor.

[0050] The frame of the device according to the invention further comprises an upper crossbar 103 fixed inside a box 230.

[0051] The emergency partitioning device according to the invention comprises, in fact, a box 230 extending from wall to wall and comprising two lateral sides 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 sides 231, a back partition 233 (see [Fig.4]) opposite the transverse front face 232, a cover 234 fixed against the ceiling, and a base 235 on which rests the sealing element B1 wound around itself around a threshold bar 105 (see explanation below), in the inactivated position.

[0052] By "fixed against the ceiling," it is understood that the enclosure can be fixed to the ceiling, for example, by means of screws passing through the lid, but it can also be fixed to the walls, for example, by means of screws passing through the side panels, provided that the lid is against the ceiling or as close as possible to the ceiling. In the latter case, a perimeter seal can be placed between the lid and the ceiling to prevent the accumulation of dust. Alternatively, the lid can be angled. greater than 90° with the front face and the back wall so that dust slides off and does not accumulate.

[0053] According to the invention, the box 230 comprises a first fixed part 230A intended to be fixed to each wall and to the intermediate cross member 104, and a second part 230B mounted pivotally at the front on the first fixed part 230A. By "at the front" it is understood that the pivot 236 between the fixed part 230A and the pivoting part 230B is located, viewed in longitudinal section along line XX, on the side of the front face 101c of the longitudinal elements, that is to say on the side of the longitudinal groove 101b.

[0054] The first fixed part 230A of the housing 230 includes the two side panels 231, the back partition 233 and the cover 234. The second pivoting part 230B includes at least a part of the transverse front face 232 and at least a part of the base 235.

[0055] Figures 8 and 9 illustrate an embodiment in which the pivoting base extends to the back wall and includes notches for the passage of the uprights, while Figures 13 and 14 illustrate an embodiment in which the base comprises a pivoting part and a fixed part, integral with the back wall, the fixed part of the base including notches for the passage of the uprights.

[0056] Thus, in the open position, the base 235 (or part of the base) pivots simultaneously with the transverse front face 232 (in whole or in part depending on whether the pivot 236 is located at the junction of the cover 234 and the transverse front face 232, or whether it is located, as illustrated in the figures, within the transverse front face 232). The base 235, thus tilted, releases the sealing element B1, which can then unroll by gravity.

[0057] The box 230 delimits a lower passage 120 between the base 235 of the box and the floor S. In the inactivated position, this lower passage 120 is free.

[0058] Advantageously, the box is shaped to have a height taken between its lid and its base such that the passage 120 has a determined height hl (taken between the base 235 of the box and the floor S) sufficient for an adult of standard height to be able to rotate the pivoting part of the box by raising their arms, without having to use a stepladder.

[0059] Typically, the determined height hl is between 2 meters and 2.2 meters, preferably between 2.05 meters and 2.15 meters, advantageously 2.1 meters. Specifically, the determined height hl is chosen to be similar to that of standard doors, for example 2.04 meters in France.

[0060] According to another aspect of the invention, the sealing element B1 comprises a first transverse edge B1 intended to be fixed to the upper cross member 103 and a second transverse edge B1 intended to be fixed to a longitudinal element 101a constituting a movable threshold bar 105 capable of being fixed, by at least one stop and reversible fixing 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 B (see [Fig.8]) of the closing element B1 being fixed each to an upright 102 of the frame 101 when the device is in the activated position (see [Fig.2]).

[0061] Thus, the arrangement of the shutter element B1 depends on the activated or inactivated position.

[0062] In the activated position, illustrated in [Fig. 2], the sealing element B1 is fixed to the frame peripherally and securely. In other words, a first and a second lateral edge B of the sealing element B1 are each fixed to a jamb of the frame when the device is in the activated position.

[0063] Thus, the dormant 101 of the device 100 according to the invention comprises:

[0064] - two longitudinal wall elements 101a intended to be fixed each to a wall to form the amounts 102,

[0065] - a longitudinal primary element 101a transverse intended to be fixed inside of the box (either under the lid or against the back panel 233, directly to the box or through it, for example fixed to the ceiling) to form the upper cross member 103 connecting the two uprights 102,

[0066] - a second longitudinal element 101a transverse forming the movable threshold bar 105, and fixed to the lower transverse edge Blb of the sealing element Bl.

[0067] Advantageously, the closing element Bl includes a sliding opening O arranged to create a temporary opening allowing passage of workers

[0068] An example of fixing between the upper cross member 103 and an upright 102 is illustrated in an enlarged manner in [Fig.3], where one end of the cross member 103 is fixed to the upright 102 by a bracket 106.

[0069] Alternatively, in an embodiment not illustrated, the wall longitudinal elements of the uprights and the transverse longitudinal element of the top rail can be fixed by joining pieces comprising a front face having a curved longitudinal groove suitable for connecting a groove of a wall longitudinal element 101a of an upright 102 with a groove 101b of a transverse longitudinal element 101a of the top rail 103.

[0070] In combination, in addition to the brackets 106 (or connecting pieces), the device may include, but is not required to include, leaf springs 107 gripping above and below the intermediate cross member 104 and on the upright 102. These leaf springs increase the rigidity of the assembly.

[0071] These leaf springs are not mandatory, as rigidity is obtained through the casing which is preferably made of stainless steel in the hospital field.

[0072] With the box fixed wall to wall and against the ceiling, and the support structure of the partition device according to the invention installed, the installer fixes the edge upper B of the sealing element B1 at the level of the upper cross member 103. For this, it inserts the edges of the sealing element B1 into the grooves of the longitudinal elements of the upper cross member 103 and forces a seal J into the groove 104a.

[0073] Preferably, before inserting the seal J, it is possible to provide clips such as those described in document EP2921611 under the terms "retaining means 34".

[0074] Once the upper edge B of the sealing element B1 is fixed to the upper cross member 103, it is stretched towards the ground and possibly cut to size. Then, the lower edge of the sealing element B1 is inserted into the groove of the threshold bar 105 and secured by forcing a seal J into the groove.

[0075] The installer also fixes the upper part of the lateral edges B of the sealing element in the groove of the uprights 102.

[0076] The installer can then wrap the sealing element B1 around the threshold bar 105 going up towards the box.

[0077] The remaining unfixed seals are rolled up and stored in the box with the sealing element wound around itself around the threshold bar 105.

[0078] Figures 4, 5 and 6 illustrate three stages of the activation of the emergency partitioning device according to the invention.

[0079] In [Fig.4], the device is in the inactivated position. The shutter element B1 is wound around the threshold bar 105 and enclosed in the housing 230. It is thus supported and protected against the upper crossbar 103, i.e. suspended from the upper crossbar and held close by, just below, resting on the base 235.

[0080] The underpass is therefore free and nothing prevents the passage of people or objects.

[0081] At the start of activation, illustrated in [Fig.5], the pivoting part 230B is raised (direction of arrow Fl) and the roller of the sealing element falls by gravity towards the ground.

[0082] This step is very quick, because given the height hl of the 230 box, the user does not need a stepladder to open the box. In addition, thanks to the weight of the threshold bar, the shutter element unrolls by itself.

[0083] 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.6], to tension the sealing element Bl.

[0084] The user then activates at least one reversible stop and fixing device, which will be described later, and fixes the rest of the lateral edges of the sealing element B1 against the uprights 102 by means of a seal forced into the groove of the uprights 102.

[0085] The lower passage, located under the intermediate crossbeam, is then hermetically sealed by the sealing element Bl, resulting in the partitioning of the corridor.

[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the joint fixing the upper edge of the sealing element Bl on the upper cross member 103 is continuous and extends laterally by a sufficient joint length to fix the lateral edges of the sealing element against each upright 102 in the activated position.

[0087] Thus, in the inactivated position, these lengths of seals on either side of the sealing element Bl are supported in the housing 230.

[0088] In this case, an upper transverse edge of the sealing element Bl is fixed in a groove of the upper cross member 103 by a fixing joint J, and only an upper portion of each lateral edge of the sealing element Bl is fixed in a groove of a jamb of the frame by a portion of the fixing joint.

[0089] In the housing, the sealing element Bl is pre-installed on the intermediate cross member 104 contained within the housing and on the portion of the vertical uprights 102 housed within the housing. This means that the lateral edges and the upper transverse edge of the sealing element Bl are inserted into the groove of the front faces and locked in position by means of the portion J1 of the seal J, which is press-fitted into the grooves.

[0090] The remaining part J2 of the seal of the seal J which is not yet fixed is housed with the sealing element Bl wrapped around itself around the threshold bar 105 in the box 230.

[0091] When the latter is opened, the remaining part J2 of the seal J is also released, and the user only has to continue to fix the lateral edges of the sealing element Bl on the front faces of the uprights 102 by forcing the seal into the grooves.

[0092] According to the invention, the device further comprises a retaining member preventing said portion of the fixing seal J1 held in each upright from being forcibly removed from the groove, for example when the sealing element Bl is wound around itself to place it in the inactive position. The retaining member of the seal comprises, for example, a clip, a screw or pin, a spring-loaded pin, etc.

[0093] This allows a lateral fixing start of the sealing element Bl against the uprights 102 to be maintained, which facilitates the finalization of the fixing to reach the activated position.

[0094] Fig. 7 illustrates a front perspective view of the 230 box equipping the emergency partitioning device according to the invention, in the closed (or inactivated) position.

[0095] Fig.8 illustrates the box of Fig.7, being activated, in which the base 235 of the pivoting part 230B extends to the back partition 233 and includes notches 237 for the passage of the uprights 102.

[0096] Figure 9 illustrates the housing of Figure 8, viewed from below when the housing is in the closed position. It can be seen that the housing does not impede the sealing of the shutter element Bl. It can also be seen that, in the closed position, dust cannot enter the housing. To this end, the housing 230 may include a set of seals that make it airtight in the closed position, thus protecting the shutter element Bl, which is wound around the threshold bar 105, from dust.

[0097] Figure 10 illustrates a schematic front perspective view of the housing of Figure 8 in the activated position before the housing is closed. As before, the threshold bar 105 is fixed under the uprights to arrange and tension the shutter element BL

[0098] Once the shutter element has been removed from the housing 230, the latter is folded down in the direction of arrow F2 to be closed, as illustrated in [Fig.1 1].

[0099] In order to be kept closed (in inactivation position or in activation position), the box advantageously includes magnets 237 to hold the pivoting part 230B against the fixed part 230A.

[0100] Fig. 12 illustrates an example of the embodiment of a reversible stop and fixing device intended to hold the threshold bar in the activated position, i.e. under the uprights and in contact with the ground.

[0101] The term "reversible stop and fixing element" means a fixing element that forms both a position stop for the threshold bar in the partitioning position (anti-misalignment and retention in relative position with the uprights) and a means of reversibly fixing this threshold bar in the partitioning position.

[0102] In this embodiment, each upright is provided with a reversible stop and fixing member 140 which includes a stop plate 141 arranged at the lower end of the upright, against a dorsal face lOld opposite to the front face 101c carrying the groove 101b.

[0103] The stop plate 141 protrudes below the lower end of the upright which supports it, and which is arranged at the determined distance dl from the ground.

[0104] Thanks to this stop plate 141, the user can push the threshold bar as far as it will go under the uprights, without having to worry about its positioning under the uprights. This stop also prevents the threshold bar from moving in its direction while in the activated position (for example, in the event of a gust of wind against the shutter element BL).

[0105] The reversible stop and fixing member 140 further includes a fixing member 142 for the threshold bar 105 under the lower end of each upright.

[0106] In the example illustrated in [Fig.12], the fastening member is a latch 142, but other structures can be chosen, such as a lug or a pin intended to enter into an opening in the threshold bar or vice versa, or a male / female part intended to cooperate with a complementary female / male part carried by the uprights and / or the threshold bar.

[0107] In one possible embodiment, the reversible stop and fixing member 140 may further include a spring-blade 143 intended to be fixed between a post 102 and the threshold bar 105.

[0108] These leaf springs 143 are particularly useful in this location, i.e. on each side of the threshold bar 105, because they provide an additional vertical force which constrains the threshold bar against the floor and reinforces the sealing of the partition.

[0109] Fig. 13 illustrates a second embodiment of a box according to the invention, during activation, and in which the base 235 comprises a pivoting part 235a and a fixed part 235b, integral with the back partition 233. In this case, the fixed part 235b of the base 235 includes the notches 237a for the passage of the uprights 102.

[0110] Fig. 14 illustrates the box according to this second embodiment seen from below and in the closed position.

[0111] Fig. 15 illustrates the case of a passage to be fitted with a large width in two walls M (one of which is symbolized in dotted line for clarity).

[0112] In this case, it may happen that the force exerted by the sealing element on the threshold bar lifts the latter (for example in the case of a draft).

[0113] One of the advantages provided by the rigid box according to the invention is that it can be shaped to house struts suitable for being housed in the box during the inactivation position, and which can be used during activation.

[0114] Indeed, the box, by virtue of its rigidity and mechanical resistance, allows for the accommodation of support props 300, in particular when the emergency partitioning device according to the invention is fitted to a wide passage.

[0115] Thus, once the threshold bar 105 is installed under the lower ends of the uprights 102, the user passes, through the sliding opening O, to the back side of the device (i.e. the other side of the sealing element Bl, on the opposite side of the front faces of the longitudinal uprights 102), then installs the supports 300 in support between the box 230 (for example against the base 235) and the threshold bar 105, which makes it possible to press the latter against the ground and prevents it from bending upwards, carried by the sealing element B1 for example in the event of an air current.

[0116] Thus, in general, the partitioning device according to the invention functionally comprises a frame formed by the longitudinal elements 101a.

[0117] The frame is not closed in the inactive position (the threshold bar is housed in the casing), and closed in the activated position, when the threshold bar is fixed under the uprights 102.

[0118] The partitioning device according to the invention is economical, easy to install and above all easy and quick to activate when necessary.

[0119] It is demountable if necessary, and particularly, although not exclusively, suitable for the hospital field in order to partition off a part of the hospital very quickly.

[0120] The flexible sealing element can easily be covered with useful visual information in case of partitioning: warning, alternative evacuation plan, etc.

[0121] A device according to the invention is therefore particularly useful in this field, because its activation is rapid and allows staff to devote themselves to other urgent tasks.

[0122] In addition, its ease of implementation allows anyone to activate it, without special skills, without tools, and without putting themselves in a risky position (for example, balancing on a stepladder).

[0123] It can be adapted to any passage, thanks to the height of the box which allows the activatable part to be lowered to the height of an average person with outstretched arms.

[0124] In addition, it is easy to maintain, as the box has no horizontal parts that could accumulate dust.

[0125] Emergency compartmentation comprises the following steps:

[0126] A) pivoting of the pivoting part 230B of the housing to open the housing 230 and release said second shutter element;

[0127] B) passage of the ends of the threshold bar under the lower ends of the uprights until they are against the reversible stop and fixing device;

[0128] C) activation of the reversible stop and fixing device to fix the threshold bar under the uprights;

[0129] D) insertion of the lateral edges of the sealing element B1 into the longitudinal grooves of the uprights; and

[0130] E) Forced insertion of a fixing joint so as to wedge the lateral edges into the longitudinal grooves of the uprights in a watertight manner.

[0131] The emergency partitioning device according to the invention unfolds rapidly, without electricity or any mechanism. It is easy to install and requires no electrical installation work.

[0132] The height of the box can be adapted to the height of the passage to be fitted to ensure that the opening of the box can be carried out simply by extending the arms upwards, without the need for a stepladder.

Claims

1. Demands Emergency partitioning device for a passage of a 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 sealing element (Bl), such as a tarpaulin, by means of a force-fixing joint (J) of said edge in the longitudinal groove (101b), characterized in that: - the frame (101) includes 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 (dl) from the floor (S), and an upper rail (103), - the device further comprises a wall-to-wall extending housing (230) in the operating position, comprising two side panels (231) extending opposite each other against an opposing wall (M), a transverse front face (232) extending between the walls (M) and connecting the side panels (231), a back panel (233) opposite the front face (232), a cover (234) fixed against the ceiling, and a base (235) on which rests the shutter element (B1) wound around itself around the threshold bar (105) in the inactive position, the housing having a first fixed part (230A) intended to be fixed to each wall and against the ceiling and comprising the two side panels (231), the back panel (233) and the cover (234), and a second part (230B) pivotally mounted at the front on the first part, the second pivoting part (230B) comprising at least a portion of the base (235), such that in the open position,The base (235) pivots and releases the sealing element (Bl), which can then unroll by gravity. - the box delimits a passage (120) of determined height (hl) between the base (235) of the box and the ground (S); - the sealing element (Bl) comprises a first transverse edge (Bla) intended to be fixed to the upper cross member (103) and a second transverse edge (Blb) 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 device (140), between the ground (S) and the uprights (102) of the frame (101) to reversibly close the passage, a first and a second lateral edge of the closing element (Bl) being fixed each to an upright (102) of the frame (101) when the device is in the activated position.

2. Partitioning device according to claim 1, wherein the passage has a height (hl) taken between the base (235) of the box and the floor (S) of between 2 meters and 2.2 meters, preferably between 2.05 meters and 2.15 meters, advantageously 2.1 meters.

3. Partitioning device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the frame (101) comprises: - two longitudinal wall elements (101a) intended to be fixed each to a wall to form uprights (102), - a transverse longitudinal element (101a) intended to be fixed in the box (230) to form a top rail (103) connecting the two uprights (102), - a second transverse longitudinal element (101a) forming the movable threshold bar (105), and fixed to the second transverse edge (Blb) of the closing element (Bl).

4. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, wherein the box (230) is also shaped to house fixing joints (J) of the sealing element (Bl) on the uprights (102) of the frame (101), in the activated position.

5. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the wall longitudinal elements (101a) of the uprights and the transverse longitudinal element (101a) of the top rail are fixed by brackets (106) or by connecting pieces (108) comprising a front face having a curved longitudinal groove suitable for connecting a groove (101b) of a wall longitudinal element (101a) of an upright (102) with a groove (101b) of a transverse longitudinal element (101a) of the top rail (103).

6. Partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein 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 (101c) and extending below the lower end (102a) of the upright (102) which is arranged at the determined distance from the floor (S).

7. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, wherein 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 post (102).

8. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, wherein the reversible stop and fixing member (140) further comprises a spring-blade (143) intended to be fixed between a post (102) and the threshold bar (105).

9. Partitioning device according to the preceding claim, wherein the fastening member (142) is selected from a latch, a lug or a pin intended to enter into an opening in 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).

10. A partitioning device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein, in the inactive position in which the shutter element (Bl) is rolled up, an upper transverse edge (Bla) of the shutter element (Bl) is fixed in a groove of the upper rail (103) by a fixing joint (J), and only an upper portion of each lateral edge of the shutter element (Bl) is fixed in a groove (101b) of a stile (102) of the frame (101) by a portion of the fixing joint (J), said portion of the fixing joint (J) being held against each stile (102) by force in the groove (101b) and by a retaining member preventing the joint (J) from being forcibly removed from the groove (101b).

11. Device according to the preceding claim, wherein the retaining member of the seal (J) comprises a clamp, a screw or a pin.

12. Method for emergency partitioning of a passage delimited by a floor (S), a ceiling (P) and walls (M), with an emergency partitioning system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising the following steps: A) pivoting of the pivoting part of the box to open the box and release said second closing element; B) passing of the ends of the threshold bar (105) under the lower ends of the uprights (102) until they are against the reversible stop and fixing member (140); C) activation of the reversible stop and fixing device (140) to fix the threshold bar (105) under the uprights (102); D) insertion of the lateral edges of the sealing element (Bl) into the longitudinal grooves (101b) of the uprights (102); and E) Forced insertion of a fixing joint (J) so as to wedge the lateral edges into the longitudinal grooves (101b) of the uprights (102) in a watertight manner.

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