Accordion-Folding Partition Structure for Lightweight Space Separation

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional partitions, such as metal bulkheads and fabric curtains, consume space, add weight, and lack aesthetic appeal in aircraft interiors, while existing solutions do not effectively address these issues.

Innovation Solution

A partition system comprising multiple layers of substrates and decorative materials that fold accordion-like in both lateral and longitudinal directions, using adhesives to create a herringbone pattern for simultaneous contraction and extension, providing a decorative and space-efficient solution.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If metal bulkheads are used to separate aircraft cabin portions, then structural strength and compartment separation are improved, but weight and floor space consumption increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidpartition weight

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces rigid metal bulkheads with flexible fabric panels that can be tensioned between structural endpoints. The fabric panels provide sufficient separation and compartment definition without the weight penalty of metal construction, while the structural endpoints maintain the required structural strength.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The design concentrates structural strength at specific endpoints and mounting points rather than distributing it throughout the entire partition surface. The fabric panels between these structural points provide separation without requiring structural strength themselves, optimizing the strength-to-weight ratio.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Strength

If metal bulkheads are used to separate aircraft cabin portions, then structural strength and compartment separation are improved, but available floor space decreases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvestructural strengthVSAvoidfloor space

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The flexible fabric panels can be tensioned to follow the contours of the aircraft cabin interior, including curving overhead to utilize vertical and overhead space. This allows the partition system to provide complete compartment separation without occupying valuable floor space, as the panels can route through overhead volumes.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The partition system utilizes three-dimensional routing of fabric panels through overhead and vertical spaces rather than confining partitions to horizontal floor-level placement. This multi-dimensional approach allows compartment separation without floor space consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

3Area of stationary object

If heavy fabric curtains are used for partitioning, then space separation is achieved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates and weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvespace separationVSAvoidaesthetic appearance

Core Design Contradiction:

Area of stationary objectVSShape

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs tensioned fabric panels that create taut, clean surfaces without the sagging and heaviness of traditional curtains. The fabric is tensioned between structural endpoints to produce a crisp, modern aesthetic while maintaining effective space separation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Solution Approach 2:

The partition system allows for dynamic reconfiguration of fabric panel tension and positioning, enabling aesthetic adjustments and adaptability. The panels can be tensioned to different degrees and repositioned along structural endpoints to optimize both appearance and functional separation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

4Reliability

If conventional partitions are used, then compartment separation is achieved, but weight and material usage increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecompartment separationVSAvoidpartition weight

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSWeight of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The fabric panels provide effective compartment separation through tension and proper routing between structural endpoints, achieving reliable space division without the weight of rigid partitions. The flexibility of the fabric allows it to conform to various mounting configurations while maintaining separation integrity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #30Flexible shells and thin films

Data Source

PatentEP4361022B1partition

Publication Date: 2025.12.31 GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE CORP

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AI summary

A partition including, but not limited to, a first body comprising a planar, foldable material. The partition further comprises a plurality of flat substrates resistant to folding. The partition further comprising an adhesive. The substrates are adhered to the first body by the adhesive and arranged in a repeating pattern that defines a plurality of columns and rows. Each column and each row is spaced apart from its neighbor, thus defining longitudinal gaps between the columns and lateral gaps between the rows. The first body folds laterally along the longitudinal gaps in an accordion-like manner and contemporaneously folds longitudinally along the lateral gaps in an accordion-like manner. The partition contracts both laterally and longitudinally when first body contemporaneously folds laterally and longitudinally. The partition extends both laterally and longitudinally when the first body contemporaneously unfolds laterally and longitudinally.