Deployable wall partition assembly

Abstract

A wall partition assembly is provided and includes an overhang structure for connection with a ceiling and a central structure connectable to the overhang structure and provided between first and second panels. The central structure includes a lifting assembly movable between an extended position and a folded position and a panel link assembly coupled to the lifting assembly for supporting the panels on respective sides of the central structure. The wall partition assembly includes an actuation mechanism operable to move the lifting assembly between the extended position and the folded position, thereby urging the panels to pivot towards and away from the lifting assembly on respective sides of the central structure for forming a wall partition and for storing the panels proximate the overhang structure, respectively.

Description

DEPLOYABLE WALL PARTITION ASSEMBLY TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The technical field relates to wall partitions, and more specifically to deployable wall partitions used to create room separations.BACKGROUND

[0002] Wall partition assemblies are commonly employed in residential, commercial, and institutional settings to divide a larger room into two or more smaller spaces. These assemblies typically consist of panels, frames, and associated hardware that can be installed to create a temporary or semi-permanent barrier. Conventional systems often rely on rigid panels mounted on tracks or hinges, or on lightweight modular components that can be manually positioned.

[0003] The basis of operation for most existing partition assemblies involves anchoring structural elements to the floor, ceiling, or walls. While such systems provide a functional means of subdividing a space, they present several limitations. Many require extensive installation time, specialized tools, and skilled labor. Others lack flexibility, making it difficult to reconfigure or relocate the partition without significant effort. Additionally, conventional designs may offer limited acoustic insulation, poor structural stability, or an unattractive appearance that detracts from the aesthetics of the room.

[0004] There is therefore a need for improved wall partition assemblies that can be deployed quickly and efficiently, without the drawbacks associated with traditional systems.SUMMARY

[0005] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a deployable wall partition assembly is provided. The wall partition assembly includes an overhang structure for connecting with a ceiling; a central structure connectable to the overhang structure and comprising a lifting assembly movable in a first plane between an extended position anda folded position; a panel link assembly pivotally coupled to the lifting assembly and movable in a second plane transverse to the first plane; a panel section comprising a first panel operatively connected to the panel link assembly on a first side of the central structure, and a second panel operatively connected to the panel link assembly on a second side of the central structure; and an actuation mechanism connected to the overhang structure and operable to move the lifting assembly; the deployable wall partition assembly being operable between a deployed configuration, where the lifting assembly is in the extended position and the first panel and the second panel are aligned in respective planes parallel to the first plane for forming a wall partition, and a retracted configuration, where the lifting assembly is in the folded position and the first panel and the second panel are in a common plane, the common plane being perpendicular to the first plane and the second plane.

[0006] According to a possible embodiment, the actuation mechanism comprises a control assembly configured to operate the actuation mechanism and control movement of the lifting assembly between the extended position and the folded position.

[0007] According to a possible embodiment, the control assembly is remotely operable.

[0008] According to a possible embodiment, the control assembly comprises a sensor adapted to detect an interference with the wall partition when the deployable wall partition assembly is moving between the retracted configuration and the deployed configuration.

[0009] According to a possible embodiment, the sensor includes at least one of a photoelectric sensor, proximity sensor, infrared sensor, light sensor, resistive sensor and ultrasound sensor.

[0010] According to a possible embodiment, each panel comprises a panel frame and a plurality of panel layers connectable to the panel frame, the plurality of panel layers comprising at least one of a decorative layer, a soundproofing layer and a base layer.

[0011] According to a possible embodiment, each one of the plurality of panel layers is removably connected to the panel frame.

[0012] According to a possible embodiment, when in the deployed configuration, the deployable wall partition assembly has an STC rating greater than 45.

[0013] According to a possible embodiment, when in the deployed configuration, the deployable wall partition assembly has an STC rating greater than 50.

[0014] According to a possible embodiment, when in the deployed configuration, the deployable wall partition assembly has an STC rating of 56.

[0015] According to a possible embodiment, each one of the first panel and the second panel further comprises a sealing assembly configured to improve soundproofing the wall partition in the deployed configuration.

[0016] According to a possible embodiment, the sealing assembly comprises lateral seals provided on lateral edges of the panels and configured to engage with adjacent walls when in the deployed configuration.

[0017] According to a possible embodiment, the lateral seals are pivotably connected to respective panels to enable selective engagement and disengagement with the adjacent wall.

[0018] According to a possible embodiment, the sealing assembly comprises a lower seal extending along the lower edge of the panel, the lower seal being configured to engage with a floor or a floor component when in the deployed configuration.

[0019] According to a possible embodiment, the lower seal is adapted to engage the ceiling when in the retracted configuration.

[0020] According to a possible embodiment, the sealing assembly comprises a top seal extending along an upper edge of the panel, the top seal being configured toengage with the overhang structure or a ceiling component when in the deployed configuration.

[0021] According to a possible embodiment, the panel link assembly comprises panel supports adapted to support the first and the second panels on respective sides of the central structure; and panel links operatively connected between the lifting assembly and respective panel supports.

[0022] According to a possible embodiment, the first panel and the second panel of the panel section are pivotable about a lower section of the panel supports between the deployed configuration and the retracted configuration, forming a V-shaped crosssection.

[0023] According to a possible embodiment, the first plane and the second plane are perpendicular.

[0024] According to a possible embodiment, the first panel and the second panel are identical and interchangeable.

[0025] According to a possible embodiment, each one of the first panel and the second panel has a height of up to 50 inches.

[0026] According to a possible embodiment, each one of the first panel and the second panel has a width of up to 12 feet.

[0027] According to a possible embodiment, the panel section is a bottom panel section, and wherein the deployable wall partition assembly comprises a top panel section having a first top panel and a second top panel on respective sides of the central structure.

[0028] According to a possible embodiment, the top panel section comprises a top sealing assembly configured to substantially soundproof the wall by interacting with the bottom panel section, the adjacent walls and / or the overhang structure.

[0029] According to a possible embodiment, the lateral seals of the top panel section cooperate with the lateral seals of the bottom panel section to seal an entire length of the wall.

[0030] According to a possible embodiment, the panels of the bottom panel section include an upper seal adapted to engage with an overlapping surface of respective panels of the top panel section.

[0031] According to a possible embodiment, the actuation mechanism comprises at least one motor, one or more pulleys coupled to the central structure and a cable operably connected to the motor and the pulleys, and wherein operation of the motor extends or retracts the cable to move the deployable wall partition assembly between the deployed configuration and the retracted configuration.

[0032] According to a possible embodiment, the actuation mechanism further comprises guiding elements connected to and extending from the central structure, the guiding elements having respective cable receiving ends configured to position electrical cables in a predetermined position and guide the cable along the central structure during operation of the motor.

[0033] According to a possible embodiment, the actuation mechanism further comprises a braking mechanism operatively coupled to the motor to control a speed thereof.

[0034] According to a possible embodiment, the panel link assembly comprises an adjustment mechanism operable to adjust a verticality of the panels relative to one another and / or the central structure.

[0035] According to a possible embodiment, the lifting assembly comprises a scissor mechanism operably connected to the overhang structure and comprising a plurality of arms pivotally connected to one another to enable extension and retraction of the central structure.

[0036] According to a possible embodiment, the scissor mechanism is moving in the first plane.

[0037] According to a possible embodiment, the panel link assembly comprises a locking mechanism operable to secure the panels of the bottom panel section in position when in the deployed configuration.

[0038] According to a possible embodiment, the locking mechanism is adapted to vertically align the panels of the bottom panel section.

[0039] According to a possible embodiment, the locking mechanism is operable to compress the panels of the bottom panel section against gaskets provided about the panels.

[0040] According to a possible embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a hook mounted to the panel support and an actuator operatively coupled to the hook, the hook being engageable with the panel link to prevent relative movement between the panel support and the panel link.

[0041] According to a possible embodiment, the hook is engageable with the panel link to at least partially secure relative positions of two adjacent panels.

[0042] According to a possible embodiment, the two adjacent panels are horizontally adjacent.

[0043] According to a possible embodiment, the two adjacent panels are vertically adjacent.

[0044] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a deployable wall partition assembly is provided. The deployable wall partition assembly includes a panel section comprising a first panel and a second panel; an overhang structure for connection with a ceiling; a central structure connectable to the overhang structure and provided between the first panel and the second panel, the central structure comprising: a lifting assembly movable between an extended position and a folded position; a panellink assembly coupled to the lifting assembly and comprising: panel supports adapted to support the first and the second panels on respective sides of the central structure; and panel links operatively connected between the lifting assembly and respective panel supports; and an actuation mechanism connected to the overhang structure and operable to move the lifting assembly between the extended position and the folded position, wherein movement of the lifting assembly from the folded position to the extended position urges the panel supports to pivot towards the lifting assembly to position the first panel and the second panel substantially vertically on respective sides of the central structure for forming a wall partition, and wherein movement of the lifting assembly from the extended position to the folded position urges the panel supports to pivot away from the lifting assembly to position the first panel and the second panel substantially horizontally on respective sides of the central structure and proximate the overhang structure.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0045] Figure 1 is a side view of a wall partition assembly in a deployed configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0046] Figure 2 is a side view of the wall partition assembly shown in Figure 1 , showing the wall partition assembly in operation between the deployed configuration and a stored configuration, according to an embodiment.

[0047] Figure 3 is a side view of the wall partition assembly shown in Figure 1 , showing the wall partition assembly in the stored configuration and within a recessed section of a ceiling, according to an embodiment.

[0048] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the wall partition assembly shown in Figure 2, showing an overhang structure of the wall partition assembly for supporting the wall partition assembly, according to an embodiment.

[0049] Figure 4A is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 4, showing a ceiling attachment for connection with the overhang structure, according to an embodiment.

[0050] Figure 5 is a front view of the wall partition assembly without panels, showing scissor mechanisms of a lifting assembly, according to an embodiment.

[0051] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the wall partition assembly shown in Figure 5, showing panel link assemblies coupled to the scissor mechanisms, according to an embodiment.

[0052] Figure 6A is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 6, showing a panel support and a panel link arm of the panel link assembly coupled to one another, according to an embodiment.

[0053] Figure 7 is a front view of a partial wall partition assembly, showing a plurality of stages of the scissor mechanism coupled to one another, according to an embodiment.

[0054] Figure 8 is a side view of the wall partition assembly shown in Figure 4, showing relative positions between adjacent panels during operation of the wall partition assembly, according to an embodiment.

[0055] Figure 8A is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 8, showing a sealing assembly configured to seal interstices of the wall partition assembly, according to an embodiment.

[0056] Figure 9 is a perspective view of the wall partition assembly shown in Figure 5, showing transverse planes in which components of the wall partition assembly operate, according to an embodiment.

[0057] Figures 10 to 12 are partial perspective views of a panel of the wall partition assembly, showing panel layers mounted to a panel base for creating an aesthetic panel, according to an embodiment.

[0058] Figure 13 is a side view of a section of a panel of the wall partition assembly, showing a locking mechanism configured to lock the panel in a desired position, according to an embodiment.

[0059] Figure 14 is a partial perspective view of the wall partition assembly, showing an adjustment mechanism provided on the panel support, according to an embodiment.

[0060] Figure 15 is a side view of a section of a panel of the wall partition assembly, showing a mounting pin onto which a panel can be mounted for connection to the panel link assembly, according to an embodiment.

[0061] Figure 16 is a side view of the wall partition assembly shown in the deployed configuration, showing top and bottom seals for engaging a ceiling and a floor, according to an embodiment.

[0062] Figure 16A is an enlarged view of a portion of Figure 16, showing a ceiling gasket configured to engage with the overhang structure, according to an embodiment.

[0063] Figure 17 is a rear perspective view of the wall partition assembly shown in Figure 8, showing lateral seals extending along an outer edge of the panels, according to an embodiment.

[0064] Figure 18 is a partial perspective view of the wall partition assembly shown in Figure 14, showing an eccentric connector provided on the panel support for fine tuning a position of a deployed panel, according to an embodiment.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0065] As will be explained below in relation to various implementations, the present disclosure describes assemblies and systems for a deployable wall partition assembly, and related methods. In some embodiments, the present disclosure describes a deployable wall partition assembly (which can also be referred to as “deployable wall partition”, “deployable partition assembly”, “wall partition assembly” or “partition assembly”) operable to improve space optimization in environments where floor space is limited. The wall partition assembly can be deployed in order to separate a space, such as a room, to split the space in two, and retracted for storing the wall partition assembly, such as proximate to or within the ceiling. The wall partition assembly can beprovided with soundproofing capabilities to isolate the newly created and separated rooms from one another.

[0066] As will be described below, the wall partition assembly includes an overhang structure, a central structure, one or more panel sections and an actuation mechanism. The overhang structure can correspond to the backbone of the wall partition assembly and is connectable to a ceiling or ceiling structure of the location where the wall partition is meant to be installed. The central structure is secured to the overhang structure and is operable, via the actuation mechanism, between a stored or “folded” configuration and a deployed or “extended” configuration. In the stored configuration, the wall partition assembly is lifted / retracted (e.g., so as to not engage the room in which it is installed) and is adapted to be housed proximate to or within the ceiling. In the extended configuration, the wall partition assembly is deployed from the ceiling to engage a floor surface, thereby creating a wall partition and defining separate rooms on either side thereof. It is appreciated that the lateral sides of the wall partition engage respective walls of the room in order to fully split and separate the original room into two smaller rooms.

[0067] As will be described further below, panel sections are operatively connected to the central structure and each include two panels, e.g., one on each side of the central structure. The central structure includes a panel link assembly configured to operatively connect the panels to the central structure. The panel link assembly is adapted to enable movement of the panels between a stored position and a deployed position during operation of the central structure between the stored configuration and the deployed configuration. It is appreciated that the panels are adapted to be in the deployed position while the central structure is in the deployed configuration, and that the panels are correspondingly adapted to be in the stored position while the central structure is in the stored configuration. In some embodiments, the panels of a given panel section are generally vertical and parallel when in the deployed position, and are generally horizontal and aligned in a common plane when in the stored position. In addition, the panel link assembly is adapted to enable movement of the panels of thecorresponding panel section in a symmetrical manner and / or in a manner to form a substantially V-shape during movement between the stored and deployed positions.

[0068] With reference to Figures 1 to 3, a wall partition assembly 10 is shown. The wall partition assembly 10 is configured to be deployed (seen in Figure 1) for separating a space in subspaces on either side thereof. The wall partition assembly 10 can also be retracted and stored (seen in Figure 3) for opening the space and combining the previously separated subspaces. In the context of the present disclosure, the wall partition assembly 10 is configured to be installed in a room, where, once deployed, separates the room in two smaller rooms. As seen in Figure 1 , when deployed, the wall partition assembly 10 is adapted to extend between a bottom surface (e.g., a floor 16) and a top surface (e.g., a ceiling 18) to create a wall partition 12. As will be described further below, the wall partition 12 is also adapted to engage lateral / adjacent walls on opposite sides thereof such that all four (4) sides of the wall partition 12 engages a corresponding surface of the room, thereby isolating (at least partially) the two smaller rooms from one another.

[0069] In this embodiment, the wall partition assembly 10 includes an overhang structure 100 configured to be connected to the ceiling 18 of the room, such as to structural elements thereof (e.g., metallic beams of the framework). The overhang structure 100 can correspond to a backbone of the wall partition assembly 10 and configured to uphold and support the other components thereof, such as a central structure 200 and one or more panels sections 300, for example. As seen in Figure 3, the overhang structure 100 can be connected to a recessed section 20 of the ceiling 18 to facilitate retraction and storage of the wall partition assembly 10. In other words, the recessed section 20 can be higher than a general height of the ceiling and configured to receive and at least partially house the wall partition assembly 10 when in a retracted configuration. It is thus appreciated that the wall partition assembly 10 can be at least partially stored “within the ceiling” as it retracts within the recessed section 20. However, it is appreciated that the recessed section 20 can be omitted and that the overhang structure 100 can be simply connected to the ceiling structure.

[0070] In some embodiments, and as seen in Figures 4 and 4A, the overhang structure 100 includes a ceiling attachment 104 configured to be connected to structural ceiling elements, such as a metal beam 102 (e.g., steel beam). In some embodiments, the ceiling attachment 104 can be removably connectable to the metal beam 102 to enable connection and disconnection of the wall partition assembly 10. It is appreciated that the ceiling attachment 104 and related components can have different shapes, sizes and configurations depending on the type of ceiling structure, the size and / or weight of the wall partition, the structural capacity of the ceiling structure and the building, etc. It should be noted that the metal beam 102 can correspond to an additional beam (e.g., not originally part of the ceiling structure) secured to the ceiling for allowing connection of the ceiling attachment 104.

[0071] In some embodiments, the ceiling attachment 104 can include one or more connection plates 106, threaded rods 108 and / or any other suitable component suitable to enable connection to the ceiling structure. As seen in Figure 4A, the threaded rods 108 can extend through the metal beam 102 at a first end thereof, with a connection plate 106 secured at a second end of the threaded rods 108. As will be described further below, the connection plates 106 can define connection points for other components of the wall partition assembly 10 to enable connection with the overhang structure 100.

[0072] Referring to Figures 1 to 4A, in this embodiment, the central structure 200 is connectable to the overhang structure 100, such as operatively coupled to the connection plates 106 of the overhang structure 100, among other possibilities. The central structure 200 includes the mechanisms and components configured to enable deployment and retraction of the wall partition 12, including vertical displacement between the ceiling and the floor and deployment and retraction of the panel sections. It should thus be appreciated that the central structure 200 is operable between a folded configuration (seen in Figure 3) and a deployed or extended configuration (seen in Figure 1). In this embodiment, the central structure 200 includes a lifting assembly 202 operable to enable the vertical displacement of the wall partition 12, and a panel linkassembly 204 pivotally coupled to the lifting assembly and operable to enable movement of the panel sections 300, which will be further described below.

[0073] As seen in Figures 4 to 6, the lifting assembly 202 can include a mechanical linkage system used to create vertical motion or extension, such as a scissor mechanism 206 connected at a top end thereof to the overhang structure 100. The scissor mechanism 206 is operable to extend and fold / retract, thus enabling deployment and retraction of the wall partition. The scissor mechanism 206 can have a structure similar to that of a pantograph, with a plurality of arms 208 pivotally connected to one another. Therefore, it is noted that when the scissor mechanism 206 is retracting, the arms 208 pivot and tend to move the lifting assembly 202 generally upwardly and towards the ceiling (e.g., towards the connection point with the overhang structure 100). Inversely, when the scissor mechanism 206 is extending, the plurality of arms 208 pivot in the opposite direction and tend to move the lifting assembly 202 away from the ceiling (e.g., away from the connection point with the overhang structure 100). It should be understood that, although the lifting assembly 202 is shown as corresponding to the scissor mechanism 206, other types and means of deploying and retracting the wall partition are possible and may be implemented, such as telescopic mechanisms, hydraulic and / or pneumatic systems, linear actuators, etc.

[0074] With reference to Figure 5, the illustrated embodiment includes two lifting assemblies 202 spaced from one another along the overhang structure 100. The lifting assemblies 202 include respective scissor mechanisms 206, each having two stages 210. It is appreciated that scissor mechanisms 206 having additional stages 210 (e.g., three, four, five, etc.) can define wall partitions 12 having greater heights. Longer wall partitions are suitable for spaces / rooms having correspondingly greater heights (e.g., greater distances between the ceiling and the floor). It should also be noted that the number of lifting assemblies 202 can vary based on different factors such as the length of the wall partition 12 (e.g., distance between the opposite lateral walls), the width of the wall partition 12 (e.g., distance between opposite sides and / or panels of the deployed wall partition), the dimensions of the room in which the wall partition 12 isinstalled, the capacities of the building, the preference of the user, etc. As seen in Figure 7, the scissor mechanism 206 can include five stages 210, including a bottom stage 210a located at a bottom end of the scissor mechanism 206. The bottom stage 210a can include a bottom rail 212 adapted to engage the floor once the wall partition assembly is deployed.

[0075] As seen in Figures 4 to 7, the lifting assembly 202 is actuatable via operation of an actuation mechanism 400. In this embodiment, the actuation mechanism 400 can be connected to the overhang structure 100 and / or to the ceiling structure (similar to the overhang structure). In some embodiments, the actuation mechanism can be connected to a separate structure (e.g., an independent structure) from the overhang structure and / or the ceiling structure. The independent structure can be aligned with the overhang structure to facilitate cooperation, although other configurations are possible, such as misalignment between the independent structure and the overhang and / or ceiling structures. The actuation mechanism can be deported on either side of the overhang structure and away from the recessed section of the ceiling, for example, when vertical space is limited between the partition supporting structure and the ceiling structure.

[0076] It is appreciated that the actuation mechanism 400 can be at least partially housed (e.g., within the ceiling) and hidden from view. In this embodiment, the actuation mechanism 400 includes one or more motors 402 and a pulley system 404 operable to enable retraction and extension of the lifting assembly 202 (e.g., of the scissor mechanism 206). Particularly, the pulley system 404 includes pulleys 406 connected to various locations of the central structure 202 and a cable 408 extending through the pulleys and being connected to the motor 402. The motor 402 can thus be operated to rotate in order to retract and / or pay out the cable, such as by spooling and / or unspooling the cable 408 relative to a drum, for example. The cable 408 and pulleys 406 are configured to raise and lower the central structure 202 upon operation of the motor 402. As seen in Figure 7, in this embodiment, the cable 408 can loop around three pulleys 406 and the bottom rail 212. As such, from the deployed configuration, it is noted that retracting the cable 408 pulls on the bottom rail 212 upwardly (e.g., towardsthe motor), thereby folding the scissor mechanism 206. It is appreciated that other configurations of the actuation mechanism 400 and / or pulley system 404 are possible and may be implemented, such as having additional or fewer pulleys, having a pair of motors coupled to a pair of pulley systems, etc.

[0077] In some embodiments, the pulley system 404 can include guides configured to guide various components throughout the wall partition assembly 10. For example, the pulley system can include a cable guide 410 adapted to position electrical cables (not shown) in a predetermined configuration and guide the electrical cables in order to follow a predetermined path along the wall partition assembly and between electrical devices (e.g., the motor(s), sensors, lights, etc.), a control panel and / or a power source. This configuration can help prevent entanglement of the electrical cables with other components of the wall partition assembly 10, such as the central structure 200, for instance. As seen in Figures 5 to 7, the cable guide 410 can include a plurality of guiding elements 412 connected to the central structure 200, such as to the lifting assembly 202. The guiding elements 412 are illustratively elongated and include a cable receiving end 414 shaped and configured to have the electrical cable engage therewith. In this embodiment, the cable receiving end 414 can include a prong-like configuration defining a recess or a slot along which the electrical cable can extend to be held in the predetermined position. It is appreciated that the cable receiving end 414 is adapted to allow the electrical cable to slide (e.g., up and down) during operation of the motor 402, thereby allowing the wall partition to be raised and lowered.

[0078] Referring to Figure 6, the actuation mechanism 400 can be provided with a speed control system configured to enable controlling a speed at which the wall partition is deployed and / or retracted. Among others, the speed control system can include an electronic variable frequency drive (or electronic VFD) configured to control a speed of the motor(s) by adjusting the voltage and frequency of the power supply. The speed control system can also include a braking mechanism 420 operatively coupled to the motor 402 to further control the speed thereof, thereby controlling the speed at which the panels move.

[0079] Now referring to Figures 6 to 8, the panel link assembly 204 is configured to enable connection of the panel sections 300 with the lifting assembly 202. In some embodiments, each panel section 300 includes one or more panels 302 configured to form a wall surface when the wall partition assembly 10 is deployed. In this embodiment, each panel section 300 includes a pair of panels 302 connectable to opposite sides of the central structure 200 (via the panel link assembly 204) such that the created wall partition has walls on both sides of the central structure 200. It is thus appreciated that, when deployed, the panels 302 can be adapted to at least partially hide or enclose the different systems of the wall partition assembly 10 (e.g., the overhang structure, the central structure, the actuation mechanism, etc.), providing improved aesthetics.

[0080] In this embodiment, the panel link assembly 204 is operable to change the orientation (e.g., angle) of the panels 302 relative to the lifting assembly 202 and / or the space in which the wall partition assembly 10 is installed (e.g., walls, floor, ceiling, etc.). As will be described below, the panel link assembly 204 can be operated together with the lifting assembly 202, such as generally simultaneously, such that the orientation of the panels 302 is adjustable along with the configuration of the lifting assembly 202. For example, the panels 302 can be displaced between a substantially horizontal position, e.g., when the wall partition assembly 10 is retracted (seen in Figure 3) and a substantially vertical position, such as when the wall partition assembly 10 is deployed (seen in Figure 1).

[0081] Still referring to Figures 6 to 8, the panel link assembly 204 can include panel link sections 214 configured to connect respective panels 302 to the lifting assembly 202, such as to the scissor mechanism 206. Each panel link section 214 includes a panel support 216 pivotally coupled to the lifting assembly 202 and adapted to have one of the panels 302 mounted thereto. In this embodiment, the panel support 216 has an elongated shape and is pivotally connected to the lifting assembly 202 at a bottom end 215 thereof. The panel support 216 is thus pivotable about a panel pivot axis between a raised position and a lowered position to respectively move the panel 302 between thevertical and horizontal positions. As seen in Figures 6 and 6A, the panel support 216 is adapted to pivot away from the lifting assembly 202 during extension of the scissor mechanism 206, and towards the lifting assembly 202 during retraction of the scissor mechanism 206, although other configurations are possible.

[0082] Referring to Figure 9, the lifting assembly 202 can be adapted to operate in a first plane 22 and the panel link assembly 204 can be adapted to operate in a second plane 24 transverse relative to the first plane. More particularly, in this embodiment, the first plane 22 can be parallel to the wall partition (e.g., when deployed) and the second plane 24 can extend perpendicularly therefrom. For example, the extension and retraction motion of the scissor mechanism 206 can be performed in the first plane 22, and the pivotal movement of the panel supports 216 can be performed in the second plane 24. It should be noted that each one of the scissor mechanisms 206 can operate within the same plane (e.g., the first plane) such that the created wall partition is relatively straight. Alternatively, different scissor mechanisms 206 can operate within respective planes such that the created wall partition includes staggered or angled surfaces (e.g., for creating walls of different shapes). Similarly, it should also be noted that the panel supports 216 connected to different scissor mechanisms 206 are adapted to pivot within respective planes, and that each one of those planes extend transversely relative to the first plane 22. Depending on the shape of the desired wall partition, the planes in which each panel support 216 operate can be parallel to one another or angled relative to one another.

[0083] Referring back to Figures 6 and 6A, the panel link section 214 can also include linking brackets 218 connected to the scissor mechanism 206, such as proximate an intersection of at least two arms 208. In this embodiment, each stage 210 of the scissor mechanism 206 can be provided with a pair of linking brackets 218 positioned centrally along the scissor mechanism 206, proximate the arm 208 intersections. As such, the bottom end 215 of each panel support 216 can be pivotally connected to respective linking brackets 218. The linking brackets 218 can be secured to the scissor mechanism 206 via any suitably means, such as via fasteners or by welding, for example.

[0084] Still with reference to Figures 6 to 8, the panel link section 214 further includes a panel link 220 extending between and further connecting the panel support 216 to the lifting assembly 202 (e.g., to the scissor mechanism 206). The panel link 220 can provide additional support to the panel support 216 and can be adapted to enable synchronous operation (e.g., movement) of the panel support 216 and the scissor mechanism 206 of the central structure 200. The panel link 220 can include a linking arm 222 pivotally connected to the scissor mechanism 206 at a first end 223 thereof, and operatively connected to the panel support 216 at a second end 225 thereof. As seen in Figures 6A and 8, the panel support 216 can include an elongated member 217, and the linking arm 222 can be coupled proximate a midpoint of the elongated member 217, although other configurations are possible.

[0085] In some embodiments, the second end 225 is pivotally connected to the panel support 216 but can alternatively be slidably coupled thereto. For instance, the panel support 216 can define a support channel 230 adapted to receive a slider or sliding element, where the second end of the linking arm 222 would be connected to the slider. As such, relative movement between the second end of the linking arm and the panel support would be allowed. As will be described below, the connection between the linking arm 222 and the panel support 216 is configured to urge movement of the panel support 216 upon operation of the scissor mechanism 206. This configuration allows for simultaneous operation of the lifting assembly 202 and the panel link assembly 204.

[0086] In this embodiment, the linking arm 222 is pivotally connected to a corresponding one of the linking brackets 218. More particularly, each stage 210 can include a bottom linking bracket 218a and a top linking bracket 218b, with the panel support 216 being pivotally connected to the bottom linking bracket 218a, and the linking arm 222 being pivotally connected to the top linking bracket 218b. It should be noted that the top linking bracket 218b of a first stage 210 can correspond to the bottom linking bracket 218a of a second stage 210 adjacent and above the first stage. Similarly, the bottom linking bracket 218a of a first stage 210 can correspond to the top linking bracket 218b of a second stage 210 adjacent and below the first stage.

[0087] It should be understood that a distance between adjacent linking brackets 218 (e.g., linking brackets of adjacent stages 210) changes during operation of the scissor mechanism 206. In this embodiment, the distance between adjacent linking brackets 218 becomes greater as the scissor mechanism 206 extends to deploy the wall partition, and the distance between adjacent linking brackets 218 becomes smaller as the scissor mechanism folds to retract the wall partition. Therefore, it is appreciated that the bottom end 215 of the panel support, which is connected to the bottom linking bracket 218a, and the first end 223 of the linking arm 222, which is connected to the top linking bracket 218b, similarly move closer and farther from one another during operation of the scissor mechanism.

[0088] This configuration of the panel link section 214 enables the simultaneous movement of the panels 302 and of the lifting assembly 202. More particularly, as the wall partition is deployed, the distance between the top and bottom linking brackets increases, with effect that the second end 225 of the linking arm 222 pulls on the panel support 216. In other words, the second end 225 of the linking arm 222 is adapted to move closer to the lifting assembly 202 during deployment of the wall partition. As such, the panels 302 are moved from the horizontal position towards the vertical position. Inversely, as the wall partition is retracted, the distance between the top and bottom linking brackets decreases, with effect that the second end 225 of the linking arm 222 moves away from the lifting assembly, thus pushing on the panel support 216. This pushing motion moves the panel 302 from the vertical position towards the horizontal position. It is thus noted that operating the lifting assembly 202 to raise and lower the scissor mechanism 206 simultaneously and automatically operates the panel link sections 214 for deploying and retracting the panels 302.

[0089] In this embodiment, there is a single panel link section 214 per panel 302, and therefore a single panel support 216 and panel link 220. However, it is appreciated that other configurations are possible. For example, for larger panels 302, it may be required to provide a pair of panel link sections 214 to assist in upholding and displacing the panel 302. In other embodiments, a single panel link section 214 can be located at anintersection between adjacent panels such that each panel is mounted to and moved by a common panel link section. It should also be noted that the panel link sections 214 on a first side of the lifting assembly 202 can be mirrored on the second / opposite side such that panels 302 are provided on both sides for forming the wall partition. Alternatively, opposite sides of the wall partition assembly can be asymmetrical such that the created wall surfaces differ on each side once the wall partition is deployed. For instance, one side can be provided with larger panels, thus requiring fewer panels to create the corresponding wall surface, and the other side can be provided with smaller panels, thus requiring more panels to create the corresponding wall surface.

[0090] As described, the panels 302 are adapted to be secured on the panel supports 216 such that movement of the panel supports 216 translates to a corresponding movement of the panels 302. In this embodiment, the elongated member 217 can include a metallic plate (e.g., a steel plate), adapted to have the panel 302 mounted thereto. The panel 302 can be secured to the elongated member 217 with fasteners, such as screws and / or bolts, although it is appreciated that other types of fasteners or fastening methods can be used. In some embodiments, the panels 302 are removably mounted to the panel support 216 to facilitate removal and / or replacement thereof when desired or required.

[0091] In this embodiment, and with reference to Figures 10 to 12, each panel 302 can include a panel frame 310 adapted to be connected to the panel support 216, and one or more panel layers 312 configured to be mounted to the panel frame 310. It is appreciated that the panel layers 312 correspond to the “core” of the panels 302 and include the portions which will ultimately form the wall partition. The panel frame 310 includes a frame perimeter 311 defining support surfaces 313 on which the panel layers 312 can be mounted and connected to. It is noted that the panel frame 310 and panel layers 312 can have substantially matching shapes to facilitate installation. For example, and as seen in Figure 4, in addition to Figures 10 to 12, the panel frame 310 and panel layers 312 can have generally rectangular shapes, forming rectangular panels 302. However, it is appreciated that the panel layers 312 overlay and thereforehide the panel frame 310 such that the panel frame 310 can have any other suitable shape. It should also be noted that the panels 302 can have any shape to form a wall partition. For instance, a plurality of triangular panels can used and implemented to form a corresponding wall partition, among other possibilities.

[0092] Referring to Figure 17, the panel 302 can be initially mounted to the lifting assembly 202 by mounting the panel frame 310 onto the panel support 216. More specifically, the panel frame 310 can include transversal frame members 318 adapted to be mounted onto the elongated member 217 of the panel support 216. As seen in Figure 15, in addition to Figure 17, the panel support 216 can be provided with mounting pins 330 configured to define a foothold and provide additional support to the panel connected to the frame. The mounting pins 330 extend from the elongated member 217, and the transversal frame members 318 include slots 332 shaped and sized to enable cooperation with respective mounting pins 330. In this embodiment, the panels 302 are mounted to respective panel supports 216 by sliding the mounting pins 330 within the slots 332 of the transversal frame members 318 (or vice versa). It is thus appreciated that the panels 302 can be releasably mounted to the panel support 216 and adapted to remain connected thereto via gravity. Particularly, the weight of the panel 302 is such that the mounting pins 330 remain in engagement with an end surface of respective slots. It should therefore be understood that, in order to disconnect the panel 302 from the lifting assembly 202 (e.g., from the panel support), the panel 302 can be lifted from the mounting pins 330. This configuration can greatly facilitate removing individual panels 302, for example, for maintenance or replacement.

[0093] Referring to Figures 14, 15 and 18, the panel link assembly 204 can be provided with an adjustment mechanism 340 operable to adjust a position of the panel 302 relative to the panel support 216, and therefore relative to the central structure 200. It is appreciated that each panel 302 can be adjusted using the adjustment mechanism 340 independently from the other panels 302. As such, the relative positions and orientations of the panels 302 can be adjusted. In this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 340 can be adapted to allow for finishing adjustments to be made to thepanels 302. For example, each panel 302 can be individually leveled upon operation of the adjustment mechanism 340.

[0094] In this embodiment, the adjustment mechanism 340 includes a bolt 342 adapted to engage the panel 302 and the corresponding panel support 216. The bolt 342 can be manipulated (e.g., rotated) to adjust the position of the panel relative to the panel support 216. As seen in Figure 14, the bolt 342 can be connected to and extend from the panel support 216. The panel 302 can be adapted to engage the bolt 342 upon mounting the panel to the panel support 216. More specifically, in this embodiment, the bolt 342 can correspond to the mounting pin 330 previously described such that the panel can be made to rest upon the bolt 342 as it is mounted to the panel support 216. In this embodiment, the bolt 342 includes an eccentric connector 344 extending therethrough (see Figure 18), and therefore extending through the panel support 216. It is noted that rotation of the bolt 342 effects a corresponding rotation of the eccentric connector 344. It is also noted that the bolt is configured to rotate about its longitudinal axis, and that, due to the eccentricity of the eccentric connector 344, rotation of the bolt 342 engages the eccentric connector 344 in rotation around the longitudinal axis of the bolt. The position and / or orientation of the panel can thereby be adjusted by a degree corresponding to the eccentricity of the eccentric connector 344. In other words, the greater the eccentricity of the eccentric connector 344 is, the greater the adjustment of the panel can be, and vice versa. It is appreciated that the adjustment mechanism 340 permits fine tuning / adjustments of each panel’s “flatness” with regards to other (e.g., adjacent) panels.

[0095] Each panel support 216 can be provided with one or more bolts 342 (e.g., with one or more mounting pins 330) coupled to various parts of the panel. As such, the various parts of a given panel can be individually adjusted via operation (e.g., rotation) of the corresponding bolt 342. In some embodiments, the panel can be supported by two (2) panel supports, each provided with a single bolt 342 proximate a distal end thereof. As such, once deployed, rotation of each bolt can enable adjustment of the top left and top right comers of the panel, respectively. It is appreciated that otherconfigurations are possible, such as providing additional bolts per panel supports and / or providing additional panel supports, for example, and among other possibilities.

[0096] Referring back to Figures 10 to 12, the panel layers 312 can be mounted to the panel frame 310 using various mounting methods. In some embodiments, the panel layers 312 can be fastened to the panel frame, for example, using mechanical fasteners. In this embodiment, the panel layers 312 can be mounted to the support surfaces 313 and secured thereto using panel borders 315 (seen in Figure 10). The panel borders 315 are adapted to extend along a side of the panel frame 310 to be secured thereto using fasteners or via any other suitable method (e.g., snap-fit connection, adhesive, etc.). The panel borders 315 also include a frontal cover 316 adapted to overlay the panel layers 312. As such, it is appreciated that installing two, three or four panel borders 315 can be sufficient to hold the panel layers in place (e.g., mounted to the support surfaces 313). It should also be noted that installing a single panel border 315 can be sufficient to hold the panel layers 312, for instance, if the panel border 315 is sized appropriately and / or if the panel border is positioned along a bottom edge to support / uphold the panel layers 312.

[0097] In some embodiments, the panel layers 312 can include different types of layers configured to provide respective characteristics and / or features to the corresponding panel 302. For example, the panel layers can include a base layer configured to form a base onto which subsequent layers can be connected to. In this embodiment, the base layer is adapted to be mounted onto the support surfaces 313 of the panel frame 310. The panel layers can further include a soundproofing layer, an aesthetic or decorative layer and / or any other suitable layer. It should be noted that other layer configurations and any combination of panel layers 312 can be used, such as foregoing the base layer and / or combining two or more layers into a single layer, for example.

[0098] With continued reference to Figures 10 to 12, the panel layers 312 can be disconnected, removed and / or replaced without having to disconnect the entire panel 302. In this embodiment, the panel frame 310 is secured to the panel support and is adapted to remain connected thereto while the panel layers 312 are disconnected,removed, replaced and / or connected to the panel frame 310. As such, it is noted that an exterior layer (e.g., the decorative layer) can be replaced without having to disconnect the entire panel 302. This configuration allows for modifying the visual aspects of the wall partition when desired and / or required and with reduced effort.

[0099] Referring back to Figure 4, in addition to Figure 13, in this embodiment, the panel link section 214 can include a locking mechanism 320 operable to lock the panels 302 in at least one of the horizontal and vertical positions. For instance, after having deployed the wall partition, the locking mechanism 320 can be adapted to engage and lock at least one of the panels in the vertical position. The adjacent panel 302 can be adapted to abut the locked panel 302, thereby positioning the adjacent panel in a desired configuration. Each subsequent panel 302 can be similarly adapted to abut the previously positioned panel such that a cascading effect can take place to position each panel in the desired configuration. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 320 can be further configured to adjust a panel according to its vertical counter parts. As will be described further below, the locking mechanism can be further adapted to have the panels engage and compress seals provided at various locations within the wall partition assembly. This configuration can assist in creating an acoustic seal of the wall partition assembly.

[0100] In this embodiment, the locking mechanism 320 is coupled to the bottommost panel section of the wall partition. As such, both panels 302 of the bottommost panel section can be locked in respective vertical positions as the wall partition is deployed. As described, the adjacent panel section is adapted to engage and abut against the locked panel section, and so on for each subsequent panel section, effectively positioning each panel in their vertical positions.

[0101] In this embodiment, the locking mechanism 320 includes a locking actuator 322 and a locking hook 324 connectable to the panel support, such as on a rear side of the elongated member 217. More specifically, the rear side of the elongated member 217 can include structural elements defining a support channel 230 (seen in Figures 6A and 17) along which the locking actuator 322 is mounted. During deployment, the elongatedmember 217 and the linking arm 222 are adapted to engage one another and at least partially mate. More specifically, the linking arm 222 is shaped and sized to engage the support channel 230 as the panels move into their vertical positions. The linking arm 222 can have any suitable shape to prevent interference with the panel support 216 and / or the lifting assembly 202 during operation of the wall partition assembly. More particularly, in this embodiment, the linking arm 222 has an arcuate shape adapted to cooperate with the other components of the wall partition assembly. Once the linking arm 222 is in engagement with the elongated member 217 (e.g., once the linking arm is positioned at least partially within the support channel 230), the locking actuator 322 displaces the locking hook 324 which is adapted to connect with the linking arm 222, thereby pulling and / or locking the panel in its vertical position.

[0102] In this embodiment, engagement of the locking hook 324 with the panel link 220 blocks relative movements therebetween. In other words, upon engagement of the panel link 220 by the locking hook 324, rotation of the panel link is blocked, and the panel is locked in its position (e.g., the vertical position). In some embodiments, the linking arm 222 of the panel link 220 includes a catch member 326 configured to cooperate with the locking mechanism 320. For example, the catch member 326 can include a transverse bar 328 to which the locking hook 324 can connect upon operation of the locking actuator 322. It is appreciated that the transverse bar 328 is adapted to be positioned within the support channel 230 during deployment of the panel section. Once within the support channel, the locking mechanism 320 can be operated to allow the locking hook 324 to hook onto the transverse bar 328.

[0103] In some embodiments, the locking mechanism includes a backup locking mechanism configured to enable access to components of the locking mechanism in case of a malfunction of the system. For instance, if the locking actuator 322 is activated and “stuck” (e.g., due to loss of power, structural malfunction, etc.), the backup locking mechanism can be operated to enable access to the locking actuator 322 for maintenance / repair, replacement and / or removal thereof. In this embodiment, the backup locking mechanism includes a magnet 329 installed between the linking arm222 and the catch member 326. As such, in case of a malfunction, the catch member 326, which is hooked and coupled to the locking hook 324, can be disconnected from the linking arm 222 by applying sufficient force to overcome the magnetic force. Once disconnected, the panel 302 can be opened (e.g., manually) to provide access to a rear side thereof, and therefore to the locking actuator 322.

[0104] In some embodiments, the panel sections 300 are configured to deploy sequentially, starting with the bottommost panel section. For example, the bottommost panel section includes the first panels to be fully deployed (e.g., the first panels to reach their vertical positions). Once deployed, the locking mechanism 320 is configured to actuate (e.g., via operation of the locking actuator 322) automatically. For example, the locking actuator 322 can be configured to operate during or at the end of a deployment cycle, that is, once the panels have been deployed in their vertical positions. The panels of the bottommost panel section can thus be automatically locked, allowing the adjacent panel section to abut against the locked panels of the bottommost panel section, and so on. However, it should also be noted that the locking mechanism 320 can be activated manually (e.g., not automatically), for example, by an operator.

[0105] Alternatively, the panel sections can sequentially deploy, starting with the topmost panel section. As the panels deploy, the panels of each subsequent panel section can engage and abut against the panels of a previously deployed panel section. This deployment sequence continues until the bottommost panel section deploys. Once fully deployed. The locking mechanism can actuate to lock the panels of the bottommost panel section in their deployed configurations. In this embodiment, each deployed panel section is positioned at least partially behind the subsequent panel section. In other words, the panels of a first panel section has portions positioned behind the panels of a second panel section, which have portions which are in turn positioned behind the panels of a third panel section, etc. As such, it should be understood that locking the final panel section (e.g., the bottommost panel section) in the deployed configuration also locks the panels of the previous panel section in their deployed configuration, and so on, up to the topmost panel section.

[0106] In some embodiments, the sequential deployment can include a full deployment of a first panel section (e.g., the bottommost panel section) prior to a second panel section initiating its deployment. A full deployment can correspond to a complete range of motion of the panels from the stored configuration to the deployed configuration, for example. Alternatively, the sequential deployment can include a rapid succession of deployments, where each panel section moves generally simultaneously, but in a staggered manner. In yet another embodiment, each panel section deploys simultaneously, with little to no delay between the deployment of each panel section.

[0107] With reference to Figures 2, 4 and 8, during the deployment and / or retraction sequence of the wall partition assembly, each panel section 300 has a generally V-shaped configuration. In this embodiment, the movements of a first panel 302 of a given panel section 300 is mirrored in the movements of the second panel 302 of that same panel section. It is noted that the exterior layer (e.g., the decorative layer) of each panel faces outwardly (e.g., generally away from the central structure 200) during both the deployment and the retraction sequences, although other configurations are possible.

[0108] In some embodiments, the adjacent panels 302 (e.g., on a same side of the wall partition I of adjacent panel sections 310) can have complementing sections adapted to engage one another upon deploying the wall partition. The complementing sections can assist in providing improved aesthetics to the wall by creating a substantially complete and continuous surface. As seen in Figures 8 and 8A, adjacent panels 302 can partially overlap one another along a junction defined between the adjacent panels. It is appreciated that a pair of adjacent panels 302 includes a top panel 302a and a bottom panel 302b. In some embodiments, one of the top and bottom panels (i.e., of a given pair) includes a shoulder 350 extending therefrom and adapted to engage the other one of the top and bottom panels. In this embodiment, the top panel 302a is provided with the shoulder 350 which is connected to and extends from a bottom edge thereof to enable engagement with a top edge of the bottom panel 302b.

[0109] In this embodiment, the panels 302 can include a sealing assembly 360 configured to seal interstices and / or junctions defined across the wall partitionassembly, such as when the wall partition is deployed. The sealing assembly 360 can include internal seals 362 adapted to seal interstices and / or junctions defined between two adjacent components of the wall partition assembly. For example, the internal seals 362 can include gaskets 364 configured to seal the junction defined between adjacent panels when the wall partition is deployed. As seen in Figure 8A, a gasket 364 can be coupled to the top edge of the bottom panel 302b and configured to engage the shoulder 350 of the top panel 302a, although other configurations are possible.

[0110] In some embodiments, the sealing assembly 360 can include lateral internal seals (not shown) positioned between laterally adjacent panels for sealing the junction therebetween. As used herein, it should be understood that “laterally adjacent panels” refers to panels disposed on the right or left of one another, as opposed to panels disposed above or below one another. It should be noted that the lateral internal seals can be provided along the panel supports 216, such as across a front face thereof. In some embodiments, laterally adjacent panels can be mounted to a common panel support 216 such that both panels are adapted to engage a common lateral internal seal, such as a gasket shaped and sized to enable such engagement. Alternatively, the panel support 216 can be provided with a pair of lateral internal seals configured to enable engagement of respective panels therewith.

[0111] Similarly, the sealing assembly 360 can include external seals 366 adapted to seal interstices and / or junctions defined between a component of the wall partition assembly and the surrounding environment. With reference to Figures 16 and 16A, the external seals 366 can include sealing elements 368 configured to engage the surfaces of the room in which the wall partition is installed, including the ceiling, the floor and the lateral walls, for example.

[0112] In some embodiments, the external seals 366 can include a top seal or ceiling gasket 370 configured to enable the panels 302 of the topmost panel section to engage therewith, thereby sealing a junction between the topmost panels and the overhang structure / ceiling. As seen in Figure 16A, the ceiling gasket 370 can be secured to the overhang structure 100 such that a top edge of the topmost panel is adapted to engagetherewith once deployed (e.g., once vertical). Alternatively, the ceiling gasket 370 can be provided on the topmost panel and configured to engage with the overhang structure. In addition, the external seals 366 can include a bottom seal or floor gasket 372 configured to enable the panels 302 of the bottommost panel section to engage therewith, thereby sealing a junction between the bottommost panels and the bottom rail 212 (seen in Figure 7) and / or the floor.

[0113] As seen in Figure 8, the floor gasket 372 can be secured to the bottom edge of the panels of the bottommost panel section. As such, once the bottom panels are deployed, the floor gaskets 372 engage the bottom rail 212 to seal the junction therebetween. It should be noted that, in some embodiments, the bottom rail 212 can be omitted, such that the floor gaskets can be adapted to engage with the floor of the room directly and / or a component installed along the floor of the room, for example. In some embodiments, the floor gasket 372 can be adapted to engage with the ceiling 18 (e.g., proximate the recessed section 20) when the wall partition assembly 10 is retracted. This configuration allows for a seal to be created with the ceiling, thereby sealing the wall partition assembly 10 within the recessed section.

[0114] With reference to Figure 17, in some embodiments, the sealing assembly 360 can include lateral seals or wall seals 374 configured to enable the panels 302 of each outer panel sections to engage with respective walls of the surrounding room. It should be understood that the outer panel sections correspond to each of the leftmost and each of the rightmost panel sections which include outer panels, corresponding to panels being closest to the walls of the surrounding room. The wall seals 374 can enable sealing a junction between the outer panels and the walls. In this embodiment, the lateral edges of the outer panels can be provided with lateral gaskets 376 extending along respective lateral edges to enable engagement with the walls of the surrounding room, thereby sealing the junction therebetween.

[0115] In some embodiments, the lateral gaskets 376 are generally static (e.g., secured / stationary) relative to the panels 302. Alternatively, and as seen in Figure 17, the outer panels can be provided with sealing wings 378 pivotally connected to thepanel frame 310, such as proximate the lateral edge thereof. The lateral gasket 376 is connected to the sealing wing 378, which is operable to enable selective engagement of the lateral gasket 376 with the corresponding wall of the room. More specifically, in this embodiment, the sealing wing 378 can pivot outwardly (e.g., towards the wall and away from the panel) to enable the lateral gasket 376 to engage the adjacent wall, and can similarly pivot inwardly (e.g., away from the wall and towards the panel) to have the lateral gasket disengage and be spaced from the wall.

[0116] It is appreciated that, during movement of the panels (e.g., deployment and / or retraction), the sealing wings 378 are operated to position the lateral gaskets 376 inwardly, thereby preventing contact with the wall. It should be noted that having the lateral gaskets 376 contact the wall during movement can damage the lateral gasket and / or sealing wing, thereby reducing the efficiency of the sealing assembly. Once in the deployed configuration, the sealing wings 378 can be operated to position the lateral gaskets 376 outwardly and in engagement with the wall. In some embodiments, the sealing wings 378 can be operatively connected to respective actuators 380 (e.g., motors) configured to selectively pivot the sealing wings 378.

[0117] The sealing wings 378 can be configured to operate automatically. For example, once the wall partition is deployed, the sealing wings 378 can be made to pivot outwardly automatically. Similarly, once the retraction of the wall partition is initiated, the sealing wings 378 can be configured to pivot inwardly, thus disengaging the walls. However, it is appreciated that other configurations are possible, such as manually actuating the sealing wings, when desired and / or required. It should also be noted that sealing wings 378 can be provided to additional panels (e.g., other than outer panels) to assist in sealing interstices between adjacent panel sections, for example. In some embodiments, the sealing wings 378 of adjacent panel sections can be configured to at least partially overlap each other and / or intertwine to create an acoustic seal along the corresponding joint of the wall partition.

[0118] It should be appreciated that the sealing assembly 360 is configured to substantially seal the wall partition. It is noted that the wall partition assembly, oncedeployed, defines a wall partition having two (2) walls (e.g., a wall on each side of the central structure). Each wall is provided with the seals and gaskets of the sealing assembly 360 as described above, with the panels of each wall comprising a soundproofing layer. As such, the separated rooms can be acoustically isolated from one another once the wall partition is deployed. In some embodiments, when in the deployed configuration, the wall partition assembly has an STC rating greater than 45, such as greater than 50, such as an STC rating of 56, for example.

[0119] In some embodiments, the wall partition assembly 10 can include sensors 500 configured to monitor a deployment zone or deployment volume corresponding to the volume of the room which will be occupied by the wall partition assembly (1) when retracted; (2) when deployed; and (3) at any point when transitioning between the retracted and deployed configurations. The sensors 500 can assist in monitoring the deployment volume to detect the presence of obstacles, such as tables, chairs, one or more persons, etc. The sensors can be equipped with transmitters configured to transmit a signal upon detection of such an obstacle, enabling activation of the braking system, for example. The sensors can include any suitable sensor (e.g., photoelectric, proximity, infrared, light, resistive, ultrasound, etc.) for detecting obstacles in the deployment volume.

[0120] In this embodiment, the bottom seal (e.g., floor gasket 372) can be equipped with a sensor, such as a proximity sensor and / or contact sensor configured to enable detection of obstacles substantially directly below the wall partition during deployment. In some embodiments, the wall partition assembly includes a control assembly (not shown) configured to enable direct and remote operation of the wall partition (e.g., of the actuation mechanism). The control assembly can include components configured to allow internet connection and enable remotely operating the wall partition, such as via a device connected to the internet, such as a computer, a smartphone, a console, etc. The control assembly can include a processor, and a controller configured to control activation and deactivation of the actuation mechanism, thereby controlling movement of the wall partition assembly. The processor can be configured to communicate withthe sensors such that, when the sensors detect an obstacle, a signal can be transmitted to the processor which can process the information to make a decision. The decision can be transmitted to the controller, which can, when required, stop and / or reverse the actuation mechanism.

[0121] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the subject matter of the claims. The described example implementations are to be considered in all respects as being only illustrative and not restrictive. For example, in some embodiments, artificial intelligence and / or machine learning algorithms can be implemented into the control assembly to enable improvement thereof, for example, by improving the detection and identification of obstacles in the deployment volume. It should also be noted that the wall partition assembly can be operable via buttons, a touch screen and / or keys, in addition or as an alternative to the connected device (e.g., computer, smartphone, tablet, etc.). In some embodiments, the wall partition assembly can be provided with additional electrical systems, such as integrated lighting devices (e.g., light bulbs, LEDs, etc.) and / or electrical outlets provided at various accessible locations across the wall partition assembly.

[0122] In some embodiments, the wall partition assembly can include a plurality of wall partitions cooperating with one another to form a cohesive structure or wall configured to separate a space in two distinct rooms. For instance, for larger installations (e.g., larger rooms) requiring larger walls, two or more wall partitions as described herein can be installed adjacent one another to enable the creation of the desired wall partition. It is appreciated that wall partitions of various configurations can be created by using two or more wall partition assemblies, such as straight walls, curved walls, angled walls, etc.

[0123] It is appreciated that the wall partition assembly can accommodate panels of various sizes. For instance, the central structure can be adapted to enable supporting and displacing panels having a height between about 5 and 75 inches, such as between 24 and 60 inches, such as up to 52 inches. Similarly, the panels can have a widthbetween about 12 to 216 inches (i.e., 1 to 18 feet), such as between 84 to 204 inches (i.e., 7 to 17 feet), such as up to 192 inches (i.e., 16 feet), for example.

[0124] Moreover, although the embodiments of the wall partition assembly and corresponding parts thereof consist of certain geometrical configurations as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components and geometries are essential and thus should not be taken in their restrictive sense. It is to be understood, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art, that other suitable components and cooperation thereinbetween, as well as other suitable geometrical configurations, may be used for the wall partition assembly, as will be briefly explained herein and as can be easily inferred herefrom by a person skilled in the art. Moreover, it will be appreciated that positional descriptions such as “above”, “below”, “left”, “right” and the like should, unless otherwise indicated, be taken in the context of the figures and should not be considered limiting.

[0125] The described example implementations are to be considered in all respects as being only illustrative and not restrictive. In the present disclosure, an implementation is an example or embodiment of the collapsible wall partition assembly. The various appearances of “one implementation,” “an implementation” or “some implementations” do not necessarily all refer to the same implementations. Although various features may be described in the context of a single implementation, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the collapsible wall partition assembly may be described herein in the context of separate implementations for clarity, it may also be embodied in a single implementation. Reference in the specification to “some implementations”, “an implementation”, “one implementation”, or “other implementations”, means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the implementations is included in at least some implementations, but not necessarily in all implementations.

[0126] As used herein, the terms “coupled”, “coupling”, “attached”, “connected” or variants thereof as used herein can have several different meanings depending in the context in which these terms are used. For example, the terms coupled, coupling,connected or attached can have a mechanical connotation. For example, as used herein, the terms coupled, coupling or attached can indicate that two elements or devices are directly connected to one another or connected to one another through one or more intermediate elements or devices via a mechanical element depending on the particular context.

[0127] Similarly, positional descriptions such as “top”, “bottom”, “above”, “under”, “below”, “left”, “right”, “front”, “rear”, “parallel”, “perpendicular”, “transverse”, “inner”, “outer”, “internal”, “external”, and the like should, unless otherwise indicated, be taken in the context of the figures and should not be considered limiting.

[0128] In the above description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity and clarity, namely so as to not unduly burden the figures with several references numbers, not all figures contain references to all the components and features, and references to some components and features may be found in only one figure, and components and features of the present disclosure which are illustrated in other figures can be easily inferred therefrom. The implementations, geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and / or dimensions shown in the figures are optional, and are given for exemplification purposes only.

[0129] In addition, although the optional configurations as illustrated in the accompanying drawings comprises various components and although the optional configurations of the wall partition assembly as shown may consist of certain geometrical configurations as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components and geometries are essential and thus should not be taken in their restrictive sense, i.e. should not be taken as to limit the scope of the present disclosure. It is to be understood that other suitable components and cooperations thereinbetween, as well as other suitable geometrical configurations may be used for the implementation and use of the wall partition assembly, and corresponding parts, as briefly explained and as can be easily inferred herefrom, without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A deployable wall partition assembly, comprising:an overhang structure for connecting with a ceiling;a central structure connectable to the overhang structure and comprising:a lifting assembly movable in a first plane between an extended position and a folded position;a panel link assembly pivotally coupled to the lifting assembly and movable in a second plane transverse to the first plane;a panel section comprising a first panel operatively connected to the panel link assembly on a first side of the central structure, and a second panel operatively connected to the panel link assembly on a second side of the central structure; andan actuation mechanism connected to the overhang structure and operable to move the lifting assembly;the deployable wall partition assembly being operable between a deployed configuration, where the lifting assembly is in the extended position and the first panel and the second panel are aligned in respective planes parallel to the first plane for forming a wall partition, and a retracted configuration, where the lifting assembly is in the folded position and the first panel and the second panel are in a common plane, the common plane being perpendicular to the first plane and the second plane.

2. The deployable wall partition assembly of claim 1, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises a control assembly configured to operate theactuation mechanism and control movement of the lifting assembly between the extended position and the folded position.

3. The deployable wall partition assembly of claim 2, wherein the control assembly is remotely operable.

4. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the control assembly comprises a sensor adapted to detect an interference with the wall partition when the deployable wall partition assembly is moving between the retracted configuration and the deployed configuration.

5. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sensor includes at least one of a photoelectric sensor, proximity sensor, infrared sensor, light sensor, resistive sensor and ultrasound sensor.

6. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each panel comprises a panel frame and a plurality of panel layers connectable to the panel frame, the plurality of panel layers comprising at least one of a decorative layer, a soundproofing layer and a base layer.

7. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each one of the plurality of panel layers is removably connected to the panel frame.

8. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the deployed configuration, the deployable wall partition assembly has an STC rating greater than 45.

9. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the deployed configuration, the deployable wall partition assembly has an STC rating greater than 50.

10. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the deployed configuration, the deployable wall partition assembly has an STC rating of 56.

11. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each one of the first panel and the second panel further comprises a sealing assembly configured to improve soundproofing the wall partition in the deployed configuration.

12. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing assembly comprises lateral seals provided on lateral edges of the panels and configured to engage with adjacent walls when in the deployed configuration.

13. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral seals are pivotably connected to respective panels to enable selective engagement and disengagement with the adjacent wall.

14. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing assembly comprises a lower seal extending along the lower edge of the panel, the lower seal being configured to engage with a floor or a floor component when in the deployed configuration.

15. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lower seal is adapted to engage the ceiling when in the retracted configuration.

16. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the sealing assembly comprises a top seal extending along an upper edge of the panel, the top seal being configured to engage with the overhang structure or a ceiling component when in the deployed configuration.

17. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel link assembly comprises:panel supports adapted to support the first and the second panels on respective sides of the central structure; and panel links operatively connected between the lifting assembly and respective panel supports.

18. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first panel and the second panel of the panel section are pivotable about a lower section of the panel supports between the deployed configuration and the retracted configuration, forming a V-shaped cross-section.

19. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first plane and the second plane are perpendicular.

20. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first panel and the second panel are identical and interchangeable.

21. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each one of the first panel and the second panel has a height of up to 50 inches.

22. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each one of the first panel and the second panel has a width of up to 12 feet.

23. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel section is a bottom panel section, and wherein the deployable wall partition assembly comprises a top panel section having a first top panel and a second top panel on respective sides of the central structure.

24. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the top panel section comprises a top sealing assembly configured to substantially soundproof the wall by interacting with the bottom panel section, the adjacent walls and / or the overhang structure.

25. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lateral seals of the top panel section cooperate with the lateral seals of the bottom panel section to seal an entire length of the wall.

26. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panels of the bottom panel section include an upper seal adapted to engage with an overlapping surface of respective panels of the top panel section.

27. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation mechanism comprises at least one motor, one or more pulleys coupled to the central structure and a cable operably connected to the motor and the pulleys, and wherein operation of the motor extends or retracts the cable to move the deployable wall partition assembly between the deployed configuration and the retracted configuration.

28. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation mechanism further comprises guiding elements connected to and extending from the central structure, the guiding elements having respective cable receiving ends configured to position electrical cables in a predetermined position and guide the cable along the central structure during operation of the motor.

29. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuation mechanism further comprises a braking mechanism operatively coupled to the motor to control a speed thereof.

30. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel link assembly comprises an adjustment mechanism operable to adjust a verticality of the panels relative to one another and / or the central structure.

31. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the lifting assembly comprises a scissor mechanism operably connected to the overhang structure and comprising a plurality of arms pivotally connected to one another to enable extension and retraction of the central structure.

32. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the scissor mechanism is moving in the first plane.

33. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the panel link assembly comprises a locking mechanism operable to secure the panels of the bottom panel section in position when in the deployed configuration.

34. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the locking mechanism is adapted to vertically align the panels of the bottom panel section.

35. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the locking mechanism is operable to compress the panels of the bottom panel section against gaskets provided about the panels.

36. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a hook mounted to the panel support and an actuator operatively coupled to the hook, the hook being engageable with the panel link to prevent relative movement between the panel support and the panel link.

37. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the hook is engageable with the panel link to at least partially secure relative positions of two adjacent panels.

38. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the two adjacent panels are horizontally adjacent.

39. The deployable wall partition assembly of any one of the previous claims, wherein the two adjacent panels are vertically adjacent.

40. A deployable wall partition assembly, comprising:a panel section comprising a first panel and a second panel;an overhang structure for connection with a ceiling;a central structure connectable to the overhang structure and provided between the first panel and the second panel, the central structure comprising:a lifting assembly movable between an extended position and a folded position;a panel link assembly coupled to the lifting assembly and comprising:panel supports adapted to support the first and the second panels on respective sides of the central structure; andpanel links operatively connected between the lifting assembly and respective panel supports; and an actuation mechanism connected to the overhang structure and operable to move the lifting assembly between the extended position and the folded position,wherein movement of the lifting assembly from the folded position to the extended position urges the panel supports to pivot towards the lifting assembly to position the first panel and the second panel substantially vertically on respective sides of the central structure for forming a wall partition, and wherein movement of the lifting assembly from the extended position to the folded position urges the panel supports to pivot away from the lifting assembly to position the first panel and the second panel substantially horizontally on respective sides of the central structure and proximate the overhang structure.

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