Adjustable Head Coupler for Sag-Free Partition Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing partition mounting systems often result in sag or gaps between curtains and abutting surfaces, causing ineffective isolation and potential damage to walls and ceilings during installation, especially when using rudimentary techniques like nailing, screwing, or adhesives.
Innovation Solution
A partition mounting system featuring a coupler with channels that allow for the coupling of elongated bodies, enabling sliding and locking mechanisms to adjust and secure the curtain heads, combined with a universal joint for pole support, which eliminates sag and gaps without damaging surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single elongated head is used to eliminate sag, then the curtain can be supported along the pole, but the head may not be long enough to eliminate all sag and multiple poles may be required
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler divides the support function into two separate channels, each capable of accepting and supporting an elongated head. This segmentation allows the curtain to be supported at multiple locations along the pole without requiring multiple separate pole installations, thereby eliminating sag effectively while maintaining system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupler serves multiple functions: it couples elongated bodies to each other, provides a mechanism for coupling to a pivot joint of a supporting pole, and supports two elongated bodies simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows a single coupler to replace what would otherwise require multiple poles and heads, reducing overall device complexity while improving sag elimination.
2Reliability
If the pole supports two elongated bodies at the coupler, then sag elimination is improved, but the pole may be positioned to inhibit human movement
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler incorporates a universal joint that allows the pole to pivot and adjust its position dynamically. This enables the pole to be angled away from obstructing human movement while still maintaining effective support for two elongated bodies, thus preserving sag elimination effectiveness without inhibiting movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The universal joint introduces rotational freedom in multiple dimensions, allowing the pole to be positioned at various angles. This dimensional flexibility enables the pole to support the curtain effectively while being oriented in a direction that does not obstruct human movement through the space.
3Ease of manufacture
If rudimentary installation techniques like nailing or adhesives are used, then the partition can be installed, but damage occurs to walls and ceilings or paint is removed
Solution Approach 1:
The coupler acts as an intermediary component that connects the pole to the elongated heads without requiring direct attachment to walls or ceilings. This intermediary connection method eliminates the need for damaging fastening techniques while maintaining installation simplicity, as the entire assembly can be freely positioned and adjusted.
Data Source
AI summary
A coupler comprises a first channel having a first axis of extension in a first horizontal direction and a second channel having a second axis of extension in the first horizontal direction. The second axis of extension is parallel to and spaced apart from the first axis of extension in a second horizontal direction. The second axis of extension has a pitch angle relative to the first axis of extension in a vertical direction, the pitch angle being less than 180 degrees. The first and second channels each include head-mounting features, the head-mounting features constructed and arranged to retain an elongated head to the coupler while permitting movement of the elongated head relative to the coupler in the first horizontal direction.