Adjustable Stile Partition System for Plumb Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of partition systems in restrooms is hindered by misalignment due to uneven walls, floors, and ceilings, leading to gaps, improper door function, and increased construction costs and time, as existing systems require precise alignment and non-standard panel dimensions to account for room imperfections.
Innovation Solution
A partition system with adjustable stile and panel brackets that can be attached to walls and floors in a way that ensures vertical plumb alignment, even in non-level rooms, using stile and panel brackets that extend along the entire length of the stile and panel, and a method of installation that includes attaching stile brackets and panel brackets to walls and floors to maintain plumb alignment, allowing for rotation of doors to block line-of-sight seams.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If traditional partition systems are installed in rooms with uneven walls, floors, and ceilings, then the partition system can be installed using standard components, but misalignment and gaps occur between partition panels and door frames
Solution Approach 1:
The stile is made adjustable in length to accommodate variations in wall and floor alignment. The stile can be extended or shortened to maintain proper vertical alignment even when the room surfaces are not perfectly level, allowing standard partition panels to be installed without precision alignment issues
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in the stile length and positioning to compensate for room imperfections. By adjusting the stile dimensions and installation position, the system maintains proper alignment between partition panels and door frames despite uneven surfaces
2Manufacturing precision
If partition panels are made to non-standard dimensions to account for room imperfections, then alignment precision improves, but manufacturing costs and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The adjustable stile serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, accommodates alignment variations, and enables the use of standard-sized partition panels. This universal component handles both the structural and alignment compensation functions, eliminating the need for custom panel dimensions
3Manufacturing precision
If partition panels are made to non-standard dimensions to account for room imperfections, then alignment precision improves, but manufacturing costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the alignment compensation function from the partition panels themselves, placing it in the adjustable stile component. This segmentation allows standard panels to be manufactured at regular sizes while the stile handles the variation compensation, reducing overall manufacturing costs
Data Source
AI summary
A partition system includes a door adjacent a stile defining a seam there-between and a member extending across the seam for blocking viewing through the seam. Methods of installing partitions systems are also provided.