Wall Panel System

Abstract

Wall panel system (10). The wall panel system (10) includes a panel (100) and a panel support handle (400). The panel (100) includes a first locking member (102) biased to a locked configuration and movable to an unlocked configuration. The wall panel (100) also includes a first panel support handle guide (104). The panel support handle (400) defines an abutment portion (402). The panel support handle (400) is configured to engage with the first panel support handle guide (104) at a first position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment portion (402) is spaced from the first locking member (102). The panel support handle (400) is configured to be movable along the first panel support handle guide (104) to a second position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment portion (402) engages with the first locking member (102) to move it from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a wall panel system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an example of the prior art. Panel walls (e.g., walls made from a series of panels connected together) are used in many ways, such as to create barriers around equipment, to define passageways through a particular space, and to divide workspaces into different areas. Panel walls may be provided with doors to allow passage therethrough, which may be lockable to restrict access.

[0003] Such guard systems are typically assembled using numerous fasteners, such as nuts, bolts, screws, clips, etc. While adaptable, such designs are time consuming to assemble, require the production and supply of a large number of parts, and the need to follow instructions that, if not interpreted correctly, can result in an incorrectly assembled assembly.

[0004] In one example where a wall surrounds equipment or a storage area, the panel may be damaged, for example, if a vehicle backs into it or if debris from the equipment hits the panel, so it can be removed and replaced. However, removal of the panel may be problematic because, for example, passing through the wall may pose a danger to users (e.g., if the wall surrounds dangerous equipment) or removal of the panel may pose a security risk (e.g., if the wall surrounds a merchandise storage area). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Canadian Patent Application Publication No. 2632627 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Therefore, a wall panel system that is easy to assemble, allows for the use of fewer fasteners than related art examples, and allows for controlled removal of panels of the wall system is highly desirable. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to the present disclosure there is provided a system as set out in the accompanying claims. Other features of the invention will become apparent from the dependent claims and the description thereof follows. Accordingly, a wall panel system (10) may be provided. The wall panel system (10) may include a panel (100) and a panel support handle (400). The panel (100) may include a first locking member (102) biased to a locked configuration and movable to an unlocked configuration. The panel (100) may include a first panel support handle guide (104). The panel support handle (400) may define an abutment portion (402). The panel support handle (400) may be configured to engage the first panel support handle guide (104) at a first position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment portion (402) is spaced from the first locking member (102). The panel support handle (400) may be configured to be movable along the first panel support handle guide (104) to a second position on the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment portion (402) engages with the first locking member (102) to move it from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration.

[0008] The panel support handle (400) may be configured to be movable along the first panel support handle guide (104) from a second position on the first panel support handle guide (104) to a first position on the first panel support handle guide (104), causing the abutment portion (402) to disengage from the first locking member (102), causing the first locking member (102) to move from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration.

[0009] The first panel support handle guide (104) may define a first stop portion (106) positioned such that the panel support handle (400) engages the first stop portion (106) after the panel support handle (400) has moved sufficiently far along the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment portion (402) engages the first locking member (102) to move the first locking member (102) from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration, the first stop portion (106) being configured to prevent the panel support handle (400) from moving further along the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the panel (100) is supported by the panel support handle (400).

[0010] The first locking member (102) may include a catch member (108). The first panel support handle guide (104) may include a first recess (112) on a first side (114) of the panel (100) for receiving the panel support handle (400). The first panel support handle guide (104) may further include a guide member (130) disposed within the first recess (112) and engaging a matching guide member (430) on the panel support handle (400). The guide member (130) of the first panel support handle guide (104) may be configured to constrain the panel support handle (400) to move along a defined path between a first position and a second position.

[0011] The guide members (130) of the first panel support handle guide (104) and the guide members (430) of the panel support handle (400) may be provided as tabs (110) configured to overlap and engage.

[0012] The panel (100) may further include a second panel support handle guide (204) on a second side (214) of the panel (100) including a second recess (212) for receiving the panel support handle (400). The second panel support handle guide (204) may include a guide member (230) that is disposed within the second recess (212) and engages with a guide member (430) on the panel support handle (400). The guide member (230) of the second panel support handle guide (204) may be configured to restrain the panel support handle (400) from moving along a path defined by the second recess guide member (230). When the panel support handle (400) is in the second recess (212), the abutment portion (402) is spaced from the first locking member (102) on the panel (100).

[0013] The panel support handle (400) may be removable from the panel (100) in a first position and secured to the panel (100) in a second position. The wall panel system (10) may further include a panel support (300). The panel (100) may define a post engagement feature (170). The panel support (300) may define a panel engagement feature (312). The post engagement feature (170) and the panel engagement feature (312) may be configured to engage such that the panel (100) is supported by the panel support (300).

[0014] The post engagement feature (170) on the panel (100) may be provided as an elongated member (172) extending from the panel post (300). The panel engagement feature (312) on the panel post (300) may be provided as a cavity (304) configured to receive the elongated member (172).

[0015] The panel post (300) may include a second locking member (302) for engaging with the first locking member (102), wherein in a locked configuration of the first locking member (102), the first locking member (102) is operable to be engaged with the second locking member (302) to prevent the post engagement feature (170) and the panel engagement feature (312) from becoming disengaged; and in an unlocked configuration of the first locking member (102), the first locking member (102) is operable to be disengaged from the second locking member (302) to allow the post engagement feature (170) and the panel engagement feature (312) to separate.

[0016] A second locking member (302) may extend from the panel post (300). The wall panel system (10) may include at least one pair of spaced apart panel posts (300) between which the panel (400) extends.

[0017] Thus, an easily assembled wall panel system 10 is provided because the panels 100 of the panel system 10 have built-in locking arrangements (e.g., first locking members 102) that can engage and disengage with the panel support handles 400. Attachment of the panels 100 to the panel supports 300 is therefore straightforward, allowing for the use of fewer fasteners than in related art examples. Removal of the panel support handles 400 from the panel 100 prevents the first locking members 102 from being moved to the unlocked configuration, thereby preventing the panel 100 from being removed by an unauthorized user.

[0018] Examples of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows a plan view of an assembly of a wall panel system according to the present disclosure. [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of a first side of a panel, panel support handle, and panel support post assembly of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of a second side of the panel, panel support handle, and panel support post assembly of the present disclosure. [Figure 4-5] 4-5 show a first side view of a panel and panel support assembly of the present disclosure in different stages of assembly / disassembly. [Figure 6-7] 6-7 show a second side view of the panel, panel support handle, and panel support post assembly of the present disclosure in different stages of assembly / disassembly. [Figure 8-10] 8-10 show close-up views of a first side of the panel and panel support assembly at different stages of assembly / disassembly. [Figure 11-13] Figure 11 shows an enlarged view of a second side of the panel, panel support handle, and panel post assembly in the locked configuration, and Figures 12-13 show enlarged views of the second side of the panel, panel support handle, and panel post assembly in the unlocked configuration. [Figure 14-17] 14-16 show views of a panel support handle according to the present disclosure, and FIG. 17 shows a close-up view of the panel support handle guide on the second side of the panel. [Figure 18-20] Figure 18 shows an enlarged view of the panel support handle guide on the first side of the panel, Figure 19 shows an enlarged view of the first side of the panel and panel support handle assembly in a locked configuration, and Figure 20 shows an enlarged view of the first side of the panel and panel support handle assembly in an unlocked configuration. [Figure 21-23] FIG. 21 shows an enlarged perspective view of a first side of the pre-assembly of the panel and panel support handle with the panel in a locked configuration, FIG. 22 shows an enlarged perspective view of a first side of the panel and panel support handle with the panel in a locked configuration, and FIG. 23 shows an enlarged perspective view of a first side of the panel and panel support handle with the panel in an unlocked configuration. [Figure 24-28]24-28 show the steps of installing the wall panel system from the second side. [Figure 29-33] 29-33 show the steps for removing the wall panel system from the first side. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] The present disclosure relates to a wall panel system 10 for forming, for example, a partition wall assembly 12. The present disclosure also relates to a partition wall assembly 12 including the wall panel system 10.

[0021] 1 shows a plan view of an example partition wall assembly 12 including a wall panel system 10 according to the present disclosure. The wall panel system 10 includes panels 100 and panel supports 300. In the example shown, the wall panel system 10 includes a plurality of panels 100 and a plurality of panel supports 300. The panel supports 300 are spaced apart from one another, with the panels 100 spanning the gap between each pair of adjacent supports 300. That is, the wall panel system 10 may include at least one pair of spaced apart panel supports 300, with the panels 100 extending between them.

[0022] Panel 100 may have one or more transparent portions. For example, panel 100 may define a frame portion extending around a central region, where the central region defines a transparent window. Panel 100 may have one or more translucent portions. For example, panel 100 may define a frame portion extending around a central region, where the central region defines a translucent window. Panel 100 may be opaque. Panel 100 (e.g., frame portion and central region) may be integrally formed. For example, panel 100 (e.g., frame portion and central region) may be integrally formed by an injection molding process from a material including a polymer.

[0023] As indicated by the numerals in FIG. 2 , the wall panel 100 defines an outer edge wall 150 that extends completely around (i.e., bounds) the perimeter of the panel 100. The outer edge wall 150 includes a first edge 152, a second edge 154, a first side edge 156, and a second side edge 158. The first edge 152 and the second edge 154 are spaced apart from one another along the length (L) of the panel 100. The first side edge 156 and the second side edge 158 are spaced apart from one another across the width (W) of the wall panel 100. The first side edge 156 and the second side edge 158 extend between the first edge 152 and the second edge 154. The panel 100 has a first side 114 and a second side 214 that define an exterior surface of the panel 100. The peripheral wall 150 extends between the first side 114 and the second side 214. Thus, the first side 114 faces the second side 214.

[0024] In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the wall assembly 12 extends from a fixed wall 1000 (e.g., a fixed / structural portion of a building) beside the equipment 900. For example, the wall assembly 12 may be provided to restrict access to the equipment 900 or to provide protection from the equipment 900 within the area defined by the wall assembly 12. That is, the wall assembly 12 includes a plurality of panels 100 and panel supports 300 arranged to create (i.e., define) a partition wall assembly 12 that may be configured to provide restricted access to an area, such as an area housing the equipment 900. For example, the equipment 900 may be a welding unit or a machining machine, and the wall assembly 12 may act as a barrier between the equipment and anyone or anything passing by the wall assembly 12. However, the wall assembly 12 may be provided to define any shape or form—for example, to define a passageway through an area or to extend around an area (e.g., to define a work area in a warehouse).

[0025] 2, 3, 24-28, and 29-33 show a portion of a wall assembly 12, i.e., a wall panel 100 spanning a space between two panel posts 300. The wall assembly 12 may include at least one panel post 300 and one wall panel 100. The wall assembly 12 may include multiple panel posts 300 and multiple wall panels 100. Features of the wall panel system 10 may be replicated / repeated in each panel 100 and post 300 assembly.

[0026] In the drawings, the wall panel 100 is shown as being rectangular, but in fact may have any suitable shape and / or configuration. As shown in Figures 5, 6, 10, 11, 19, and 27-30, the panel 100 is configured to be positioned in a mounting position on the panel support 300. That is, the panel 100 is configured to be attached / secured (i.e., positioned) to the panel support 300. In the example shown in Figures 27-30, the wall panel 100 is attached (e.g., secured) to two panel support 300. In other examples (as shown in Figures 5 and 6), the wall panel 100 may be attached to only one support 300.

[0027] The posts 300 on either side of the panel 100 may be substantially identical, and both posts 300 may support the panel 100. However, only one post 300 may be utilized to lock the panel 100 in place. In other examples (as shown in the drawings), posts 300 on either side of the panel 100 may be utilized to lock the panel 100 in the installed position.

[0028] Thus, the locking feature of the panel 100 may be located on one side edge of the panel 100 (e.g., the first side edge 156 or the second side edge 158). Alternatively, as shown in the drawings, the locking feature of the panel 100 may be located on two side edges of the panel 100 (e.g., the first side edge 156 and the second side edge 158).

[0029] As shown in FIGS. 2, 4-13, and 18-23, the panel 100 may include a first locking member 102 that is biased to a locked configuration and movable to an unlocked configuration. As best shown in FIGS. 18-23, the first locking member 102 may include a catch member 108. The first locking member 102 may include a resilient arm 160 that extends from the panel 100 to the catch member 108. The resilient arm 160 may be biased to the locked configuration. That is, the resilient arm 160 may be biased to urge the catch member 108 outward in a third direction D3 (i.e., in a width direction W perpendicular to the length direction L in the plane of the panel 100), away from the center of the panel 100, toward the side edges 156, 158 of the panel 100. Thus, the first locking member 102 may be spring-biased toward the locked configuration. The first locking member 102 may be integrally formed with the panel 100. The first locking member 102 may be attached to the panel 100 and fixed thereto.

[0030] As shown in FIGS. 2, 4, 5, 8-13, and 18-23, the panel 100 may also include a first panel support handle guide 104. As shown in Figures 2, 3, 6, 7, 11-13, 19-33, and particularly Figures 14-17, the wall panel system 10 may include a panel support handle 400. As best shown in Figures 14-17, the panel support handle 400 may define an abutment 402. The abutment 402 is configured to engage the first locking member 102 to move the first locking member 102 from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration.

[0031] As shown in Figures 6, 11, 19, 22, and 27, the panel support handle 400 can be configured to engage with the first panel support handle guide 104 at a first position on the first panel support handle guide 104 such that the abutment portion 402 is spaced apart from the first locking member 102.

[0032] As shown in Figures 2, 4, 5, 8-10, 11-13, 18-23, and 29-33, the first panel support handle guide 104 may include a first recess 112 on the first side 114 of the panel 100 for receiving the panel support handle 400. That is, on the first side 114 of the panel 100, the panel 100 defines the first recess 112 in which the first panel support handle guide 104 is positioned / formed. The first recess 112 may extend from the first side edge 156. The first recess 112 may extend from the second side edge 158. As shown in the drawings, the first recess 112 may extend from each of the first side edge 156 and the second side edge 158. The first recess 112 may be positioned approximately midway along the length L of the panel 100 between the first edge 152 and the second edge 154 .

[0033] The first panel support handle guide 104 may further include a guide member 130 disposed within the first recess 112 (as shown in FIG. 18 ) that engages with a matching guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400 (as shown in FIGS. 14 , 15 , and 16 ). The guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 may be configured to constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined between a first position and a second position. That is, the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 may be configured to constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined in the length direction L of the panel 100 between the first position and the second position. In other words, the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 may be configured to constrain the panel support handle 400 to move in a first direction D1 along a path (i.e., up as shown in the drawings) and to move in a second direction D2 along the same path (i.e., down as shown in the drawings), where the second direction D2 is therefore opposite the first direction D1.

[0034] The guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 and the guide member 430 of the support handle 400 may be provided as tabs 110 configured to overlap and engage. That is, the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 and the guide member 430 of the support handle 400 may be provided as walls configured, sized, and positioned such that they overlap and engage when the support handle 400 is positioned within the first recess 112 and moved along it in the length direction L of the panel (i.e., in the first direction D1).

[0035] As best shown by the movement of the panel support handle 400 between Figures 6 and 7, between Figures 11 and 12, between Figures 19 and 20, and between Figures 22 and 23, the panel support handle 400 may be configured to be movable and / or slidable in a first direction D1 along the first panel support handle guide 104 from a first position on the first panel support handle guide 104 to a second position on the first panel support handle guide 104 such that the abutment portion 402 engages with the first locking member 102, thereby moving the first locking member 102 from a locked configuration (as shown in Figures 19, 22) to an unlocked configuration (as shown in Figures 20, 23).

[0036] As best shown by the movement of the panel support handle 400 shown between Figures 7 and 6, between Figures 12 and 11, between Figures 20 and 19, and between Figures 23 and 22, the panel support handle 400 may be configured to be movable and / or slidable along the first panel support handle guide 104 in the second direction D2 from a second position on the first panel support handle guide 104 to a first position on the first panel support handle guide 104 such that the abutment portion 402 disengages from the first locking member 102, thereby moving the first locking member 102 from an unlocked configuration (as shown in Figures 20, 23) to a locked configuration (as shown in Figures 19, 22).

[0037] That is, the panel support handle 400 may be configured to be movable and / or slidable along the first panel support handle guide 104 from a second position on the first panel support handle guide 104 to a first position on the first panel support handle guide 104 such that the abutment portion 402 disengages from the first locking member 102, such that the catch member 108 of the first locking member 102 moves in the third direction D3 from an unlocked configuration (as shown in Figures 20, 23) in which it is pulled away from the side edges 156, 158 of the panel 100 to a locked configuration (as shown in Figures 19, 22) in which it is moved toward the side edges 156, 158.

[0038] Thus, in the unlocked configuration, the resilient arm 160 can fold over to pull out the catch member 108 (as shown in Figures 20 and 23), and in the locked configuration, the resilient arm 160 can spring back, extending the catch member 108 to engage with the second locking member 302 on the post 300.

[0039] 8-9, 18, and 21, the first panel support handle guide 104 may define a first stop 106. The first stop 106 is positioned such that the panel support handle 400 engages the first stop 106 after the panel support handle 400 has moved sufficiently far in the first direction D1 along the first panel support handle guide 104 such that the abutment 402 engages the first locking member 102 and moves the first locking member 102 from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. The first stop 106 may be positioned to engage the panel support handle 400 after the panel support handle 400 has moved sufficiently far in the length direction L (i.e., in the first direction D1) along the first panel support handle guide 104 such that the guide member 430 of the panel support handle 400 engages, slides along, and is held (i.e., captured) by the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104, securing the panel support handle 400 to the panel 100. The first stop 106 may be configured to prevent the panel support handle 400 from moving further in the length direction L (i.e., in the first direction D1) along the first panel support handle guide 104, such that the panel support handle 400 rebounds against the first stop 106 when the panel 100 is supported by the panel support handle 400. The first stop 106 may be part of a wall that defines the first recess 112 .

[0040] When the panel support handle 400 is in the first position, the panel support handle 400 is removable from the panel 100. When the panel support handle 400 is in the second position, the panel support handle 400 is secured to the panel 100 by virtue of the interconnection between the guide member 430 of the panel support handle 400 and the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104.

[0041] As shown in Figures 4-13, the panel 100 defines a post-engagement feature 170. The post-engagement feature 170 may be integrally formed with the panel 100. The post-engagement feature 170 may be attached and fixed to the panel 100. As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the post-engagement feature 170 may be provided on the side edges 156, 158. The post-engagement feature 170 may be provided on the side edges 156, 158 in areas where the side edges 156, 158 meet the first edge 152 and second edge 154 (e.g., at the top and bottom corners of the panel 100).

[0042] As shown in FIGS. 4-13, the panel support 300 defines a panel engagement feature 312. The panel engagement feature 312 may be integrally formed with the support 300. The panel engagement feature 312 may be fixedly attached to the support 300. As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, a plurality of panel engagement features 312 may be provided along the length of the support 300. The panel engagement features 312 may be spaced apart in the length direction L by the same distance as the support engagement features 170 on the panel 100. The or each support engagement feature 170 may be configured to engage with a corresponding panel engagement feature 312 such that the panel 100 is supported (e.g., supported) by the panel support 300, positioning the panel 100 and panel support 300 in an attached position relative to one another.

[0043] The or each post engagement feature 170 on the panel 100 may be provided as an elongate member 172 (e.g., a finger or hook) extending from the panel post 300. The or each panel engagement feature 312 on the panel post 300 may be provided as a cavity, aperture, or chamber 304 configured to receive the elongate member 172.

[0044] 8-9, the panel post 300 may include a second locking member 302 for engaging with the first locking member 102. The second locking member 302 extends from the panel post 300. The second locking member 302 may be provided as an engagement land 306 extending from the panel post 300.

[0045] In the locked configuration of the first locking member 102, the first locking member 102 is operable to be engaged with the second locking member 302 and prevents the first locking member 102 from passing through the second locking member 302 in the first direction D1, thereby preventing the or each post engagement feature 170 and the corresponding panel engagement feature 312 from becoming disengaged.

[0046] In the unlocked configuration of the first locking member 102, the first locking member 102 may be operable to disengage from the second locking member 302, allowing the first locking member 102 to pass through the second locking member 302 in the first direction D1, thereby separating the post engagement feature 170 and the panel engagement feature 312 and thereby removing the panel 100 from the panel post 300. In some examples, in the unlocked configuration, the catch member 108 may be moved to a position spaced apart from (e.g., spaced apart from) the second locking member 302 so that the catch member 108 can pass through the locking member 302. In another example, as shown in FIG. 9 , in the unlocked configuration, the catch member 108 may be angled / tilted relative to the second locking member 302 such that when the catch member 108 moves in the first direction D1, the surface of the catch member 108 facing the second locking member 302 is angled relative to the second locking member 302, thereby forcing the catch member 108 inward in the fourth direction D4 (i.e., the width direction W opposite to the third direction D3) and causing the resilient arms 160 to fold over, allowing the catch member 108 to pass through the second locking member 302.

[0047] As shown in Figures 3, 6, 7, 17, and 24-28, the panel 100 further includes a second panel support handle guide 204 on a second side 214 of the panel 100 (i.e., the side opposite the first recess 112 of the panel 100). The second panel support handle guide 204 includes a second recess 212 for receiving a panel support handle 400. That is, on the second side 214 of the panel 100, the panel 100 defines the second recess 212 in which the second panel support handle guide 204 is positioned / formed. The second recess 212 may extend from the first side edge 156. The second recess 212 may extend from the second side edge 158. As shown in the drawings, the second recess 212 may extend from each of the first side edge 156 and the second side edge 158. The second recess 212 may be positioned approximately midway between the first edge 152 and the second edge 154 along the length L of the panel 100 .

[0048] As best shown in FIG. 17 , the second panel support handle guide 204 may include a guide member 230 disposed within the second recess 212 for engaging a guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400. The guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 may be configured to constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined by the second recess guide member 230 (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100). The guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 may be configured to constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined between a first position and a second position. That is, the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 may be configured to constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path defined in the length direction L of the panel between the first position and the second position. In other words, the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 can be configured to constrain the panel support handle 400 to move along a path in a first direction D1 (i.e., upwards as shown in the drawings) and along the same path in a second direction D2 (i.e., downwards as shown in the drawings).

[0049] The second panel support handle guide 204 may define a second stop 206, as shown in FIG. 17 . The second stop 206 may be positioned such that the panel support handle 400 engages the second stop 206 after the panel support handle 400 has moved sufficiently far in the length direction L (i.e., in the first direction D1) along the panel support handle guide 204 such that the guide member 430 of the panel support handle 400 engages, slides along, and is held (i.e., captured) by the guide member 230 of the panel support handle guide 204, securing the panel support handle 400 to the panel 100. The second stop 206 may be configured to prevent the panel support handle 400 from further movement in the length direction L (i.e., in the first direction D1) along the panel support handle guide 204 such that the panel support handle 400 rebounds against the second stop 206 when the panel 100 is supported by the panel support handle 400. The second stop 206 may be part of a wall defining the second recess 212 .

[0050] When the panel support handle 400 is in the second recess 212, the abutment portion 402 is spaced apart from the first locking member 102 on the panel 100. Therefore, in the illustrated example, the first locking member 102 can be operated only from the first side 114 of the panel 100. That is, the abutment portion 402 of the panel support handle 400 engages with the first locking member 102 of the panel 100 to disengage the first locking member 102 from the second locking member 302 on the post 300 from the first side 114 of the panel 100, but not from the second side 214 of the panel 100. On the second side 214, the panel support handle 400 fits into and engages with the second recess 212, so that the panel 100 is lifted by the panel support handle 400, but the abutment portion 402 of the panel support handle 400 is positioned to be spaced away from the first locking member 102 and therefore does not engage with or move the first locking member 102.

[0051] In another example (not shown), the second recess 212, the first locking member 102, and the panel support handle 400 are configured such that when the panel support handle 400 enters the second recess 212, the abutment portion 402 of the panel support handle 400 engages with the first locking member 102 of the panel 100 to disengage the first locking member 102 from the second locking member 302 of the post 300. Thus, in this example, the panel support handle 400 unlocks the panel 100 from the post 300 from both the first side 114 and the second side 214.

[0052] A method for attaching a panel 100 to a pole 300 will now be described with reference to Figures 24-28, where the panel 100 is operated by two panel support handles 400. For clarity, the operation of only one panel support handle 400 will be described. However, regardless of whether more than one panel support handle 400 is used, the operation is the same for each.

[0053] 24 , the panel support handle 400 is initially positioned within the second recess 212 such that the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 engages with the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400. As the panel support handle 400 is initially positioned within the second recess 212, the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204 engages with the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400 such that the panel support handle 400 is constrained to move in the first direction D1 (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100) along a path defined by the second recess guide member 230 until the panel support handle 400 abuts the second stop 206 within the second recess 212.

[0054] The panel 100 is then lifted into position as shown in Figures 4, 8 and 25 to align the post engagement features 170 on the panel 100 with the respective panel engagement features 312 on the panel posts 300. In instances where the panel 100 is supported by two posts 300, the post engagement features 170 on the side edges 156, 158 are aligned with the respective panel engagement features 312 on the panel posts 300.

[0055] The panel 100 is then lowered in a second direction D2 (as shown in FIGS. 5 and 9) so that the post engagement features 170 on the panel 100 engage with the panel engagement features 312 on the panel posts 300.

[0056] The panel is then further lowered in the second direction D2 (as shown in FIGS. 10 and 26 ) until the first locking members 102 on the panel 100 pass the second locking members 302 on the posts 300 and move outward in the third direction D3 (i.e., in the width direction W) until the first locking members 102 seat beneath the second locking members 302. That is, as the panel 100 is lowered in the second direction D2, the first locking members 102 are in an unlocked configuration before passing the second locking members 302, and then move to a locked configuration once they pass the second locking members 302. In instances where first locking members 102 are provided on both the first side edge 156 and the second side edge 158, the process (i.e., mode of operation) is the same for both first locking members 102.

[0057] At this point, the panel 100 is further lowered in the second direction D2 so that the post engagement feature 170 on the panel 100 rests against the panel engagement feature 312 on the panel support 300, causing the panel support 300 to take on the weight of the panel 100.

[0058] 27, the panel support handle 400 is then slid "down" in the second direction D2 so that the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400 slides past and disengages from the guide member 230 of the second panel support handle guide 204. The or each panel support handle 400 may then be moved away from (i.e., removed from) the second recess 212 and the panel 100, as shown in FIG.

[0059] A method for removing a panel 100 from a pole 300 will now be described with reference to Figures 29-33, where the panel 100 is operable by two panel support handles 400. For clarity, the operation of only one panel support handle 400 will be described. However, regardless of whether more than one panel support handle 400 is used, the operation is the same for each.

[0060] 30 , the panel support handle 400 is initially positioned within the first recess 112 in the first side 114 of the panel 100 such that the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 engages with the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400. As the panel support handle 400 is initially positioned within the first recess 112, the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 engages with the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400 such that the panel support handle 400 is constrained to move in the first direction D1 (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100) along a path defined by the first recess guide member 130 until the panel support handle 400 abuts the first stop 106 in the first recess 112.

[0061] 11-13, at this point, the first locking member 102 is seated below (e.g., engaged with) the second locking member 302, as shown in FIG. 11. Therefore, at this point, the panel support handle abutment 402 is in a first position and spaced apart from the first locking member 102. The panel support handle 400 is then moved along the restraining path defined by the first recess guide member 130 in the first direction D1 (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100) to a second position until the panel support handle 400 abuts the first stop 106 in the first recess 112, and the abutment 402 engages with the first locking member 102, moving it from the locked configuration (FIGS. 11, 19, 22) to the unlocked configuration (FIGS. 12, 20, 23).

[0062] The panel 100 is then lifted in the first direction D1 to a position as shown in Figures 13 and 32 so that the first locking member 102 can pass the second locking member 302 in the first direction D1 and the post engagement features 170 on the panel 100 disengage from their respective panel engagement features 312 on the panel posts 300. The panel 100 can then be lifted in the first direction D1 away from the posts 300 and supported by the panel support handles 400, as shown in Figure 33.

[0063] The panel 100 may also be attached to the post 300 by a panel support handle 400 located within the first recess 112 . The panel support handle 400 is initially positioned within the first recess 112 on the first side 114 of the panel 100 so that the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104 engages the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400. At this point, the panel support handle abutment 402 is in a first position and is spaced apart from the first locking member 102. The panel support handle 400 is then moved in a first direction D1 (e.g., in the length direction L of the panel 100) along the restraining path defined by the first recess guide member 130 to a second position until the panel support handle 400 abuts the first stop 106 in the first recess 112, causing the abutment 402 to engage and move the first locking member 102 from the locked configuration ( FIGS. 11 , 19 , 22 ) to the unlocked configuration ( FIGS. 12 , 20 , 23 ).

[0064] The panel 100 is then raised to the position shown in Figures 4 and 8 to align the post engagement features 170 on the panel 100 with the respective panel engagement features 312 on the panel posts 300. In instances where the panel 100 is supported by two posts 300, the post engagement features 170 on the side edges 156, 158 are aligned with the respective panel engagement features 312 on the panel posts 300.

[0065] The panel 100 is then lowered in a second direction D2 (as shown in FIGS. 5 and 9) so that the post engagement features 170 on the panel 100 engage with the panel engagement features 312 on the panel posts 300.

[0066] The panel 100 is then further lowered in the second direction D2 until the first locking member 102 on the panel 100 passes the second locking member 302 on the post 300 (as shown in FIG. 10 ). At this point, as the panel 100 is further lowered in the second direction D2, the post engagement feature 170 on the panel 100 rests against the panel engagement feature 312 on the panel post 300, causing the panel post 300 to take on the weight of the panel 100.

[0067] The panel support handle 400 then slides “down” in the second direction D2 such that the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400 slides along the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104. That is, the panel support handle 400 moves along the first panel support handle guide 104 from a second position on the first panel support handle guide 104 to a first position on the first panel support handle guide 104 such that the abutment 402 disengages from the first locking member 102, causing the first locking member 102 to move from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration. Thus, the first locking member 102 moves outward in the third direction D3 (i.e., in the width direction W) such that the first locking member 102 is seated below the second locking member 302.

[0068] Thus, the act of lifting the panel 100 using the panel support handle 400 (e.g., to position it on the panel post 300) places the first locking member 102 in an unlocked configuration for attachment to the panel 100. Once the panel 100 is in place on the post 300, the act of removing the panel support handle 400 engages the first locking member 102 with the second locking member 302.

[0069] The panel support handle 400 is then slid "down" in the second direction D2 so that the guide member 430 on the panel support handle 400 slides past and disengages from the guide member 130 of the first panel support handle guide 104. The or each panel support handle 400 can then be moved away from (i.e., removed from) the first recess 112 and panel 100.

[0070] Thus, a wall panel system 10 is provided that is easy to assemble and secure because the panels 100 of the panel system have built-in locking arrangements (e.g., first locking members 102) that are engaged when the panel 100 is positioned in its mounting position on the post 300 (e.g., when the panel support handle 400 is removed from the first side 114 of the panel 100, or when the panel support handle 400 is used to lift the panel 100 from the second side 214 of the panel 100, and / or even when the panel 100 is lifted and positioned on the post 300 without the panel support handle 400).

[0071] The panel 100 is also easily disengaged from the post 300 by using the panel support handle 400 on the first side 114 of the panel 100 to disengage the first locking member 102 as part of the act of lifting the panel 100 from the post 300.

[0072] However, the panel 100 cannot be disengaged from the post 300 without using the panel support handle 400. Therefore, removal of the panel support handle 400 from the panel 100 prevents the first locking member 102 from being moved to the unlocked configuration, which prevents the panel 100 from being removed by an unauthorized user.

[0073] Because the features that attach the panel 100 to the panel post 300 are integrally formed with (i.e., as part of) each of the panel 100 and the panel post 300, assembly of the post 300 and panel 100 is straightforward and requires fewer fasteners than in related art examples.

[0074] Attention is drawn to all articles and documents related to this application that have been filed contemporaneously or previously hereto and are accepted for inspection herewith, and the contents of all such articles and documents are incorporated herein by reference.

[0075] All of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), and / or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations in which at least some of such features and / or steps are mutually exclusive.

[0076] Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), unless expressly stated otherwise, may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is only an example of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

[0077] The invention is not limited to the details of the embodiment or embodiments described above, but extends to any novel one or any novel combination of features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings), or to any novel one or any novel combination of steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. Panel (100) and panel support handle (400) A wall panel system (10) comprising: The panel (100) comprises: a first locking member (102) biased to a locked configuration and movable to an unlocked configuration; a first panel support handle guide (104); Including, The panel support handle (400) defines an abutment (402); the panel support handle (400) is configured to engage with the first panel support handle guide (104) at a first position on the first panel support handle guide (104), such that the abutment portion (402) is spaced from the first locking member (102); the panel support handle (400) is configured to be movable along the first panel support handle guide (104) to a second position on the first panel support handle guide (104), and the abutment portion (402) engages with the first locking member (102) to move the first locking member (102) from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration.

2. 2. The wall panel system of claim 1, wherein the panel support handle is configured to be movable along the first panel support handle guide from the second position on the first panel support handle guide to the first position on the first panel support handle guide, and wherein the abutment disengages from the first locking member, causing the first locking member to move from the unlocked configuration to the locked configuration.

3. the first panel support handle guide (104) defines a first stop portion (106) positioned such that the panel support handle (400) engages the first stop portion (106) after the panel support handle (400) has moved sufficiently far along the first panel support handle guide (104) such that the abutment portion (402) engages the first locking member (102) to move the first locking member (102) from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration; 3. The wall panel system (10) of claim 1 or 2, wherein the first stop (106) is configured to prevent the panel support handle (400) from moving further along the first panel support handle guide (104) so ​​that the panel (100) is supported by the panel support handle (400).

4. The wall panel system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first locking member (102) comprises a catch member (108).

5. the first panel support handle guide (104) includes a first recess (112) on a first side (114) of the panel (100) for receiving the panel support handle (400); and 5. The wall panel system according to claim 1, wherein the first panel support handle guide further comprises a guide member disposed within the first recess for engaging a matching guide member on the panel support handle, the guide member of the first panel support handle guide being configured to constrain the panel support handle for movement along a defined path between the first position and the second position.

6. 6. The wall panel system (10) of claim 5, wherein the guide member (130) of the first panel support handle guide (104) and the guide member (430) of the panel support handle (400) are provided as tabs (110) configured for overlapping engagement.

7. The panel (100) further includes a second panel support handle guide (204) including a second recess (212) on a second side (214) of the panel (100) for receiving the panel support handle (400); the second panel support handle guide (204) includes a guide member (230) disposed within the second recess (212) and configured to engage the guide member (430) on the panel support handle (400), the guide member (230) of the second panel support handle guide (204) being configured to constrain the panel support handle (400) to move along a path defined by the guide member (230) in the second recess; 7. The wall panel system (10) according to claim 5 or 6, wherein when the panel support handle (400) is in the second recess (212), the abutment portion (402) is spaced apart from the first locking member (102) on the panel (100).

8. The wall panel system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the panel support handle (400) is detachable from the panel (100) at the first position and fixed to the panel (100) at the second position.

9. Further comprising a panel support (300); The panel (100) defines a post-engagement feature (170); and The panel support (300) defines a panel engagement feature (312); 9. The wall panel system (10) of claim 1, wherein the post engagement feature (170) and the panel engagement feature (312) are configured to engage such that the panel (100) is supported by the panel support (300).

10. The post-engagement features (170) on the panel (100) are provided as elongated members (172) extending from the panel posts (300); and 10. The wall panel system (10) of claim 9, wherein the panel engagement feature (312) on the panel post (300) is provided as a cavity (304) configured to receive the elongated member (172).

11. the panel post (300) includes a second locking member (302) for engaging the first locking member (102); In the locked configuration of the first locking member (102), the first locking member (102) is operable to be engaged with the second locking member (302) to prevent the post engagement feature (170) and panel engagement feature (312) from becoming disengaged; and 11. The wall panel system (10) of claim 9 or 10, wherein in the unlocked configuration of the first locking member (102), the first locking member (102) is operable to disengage from the second locking member (302) such that the post-engagement feature (170) and the panel-engagement feature (312) can be separated.

12. The wall panel system (10) of claim 11, wherein the second locking member (302) extends from the panel post (300).

13. The wall panel system (10) according to any one of claims 9 to 12, comprising at least a pair of spaced apart panel supports (300), with a panel (400) extending between the pair of panel supports (300).

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