Modular Partition Wall with Tool-Free Locking and Damping

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing modular partition walls lack flexibility in adapting to changing soundproofing requirements and spatial changes, requiring complete system replacement when noise levels or usage needs change.

Innovation Solution

A modular partition system with adjustable height, featuring toggle fasteners for tool-free connection of elements, hollow interior for damping elements, and adjustable feet for stability, allowing for quick reconfiguration and increased sound absorption.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If modular partition walls are designed with fixed dimensions and non-stackable elements, then manufacturing and initial installation are simplified, but flexibility in adapting to changing soundproofing requirements and spatial changes is lost

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveflexibility in adapting to changing soundproofing requirementsVSAvoidcomplexity of modular system with adjustable height and stacking capability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The partition wall is divided into multiple individual modules, each with standardized dimensions and features. Each module contains integrated locking elements and stacking interfaces, allowing the wall to be segmented into manageable units that can be independently adjusted, stacked to different heights, and reconfigured based on changing soundproofing requirements without requiring complex external support structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The partition modules are designed with universal features including integrated locking elements that work across all modules, standardized stacking interfaces for varying heights, and hollow interiors that can accommodate different damping element configurations. This multi-functionality allows the same basic module design to serve multiple purposes and adapt to different spatial and acoustic requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Productivity

If traditional partition systems require complete system replacement when noise levels change, then initial design simplicity is maintained, but time and resource expenditure for modifications increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvespeed of reconfiguration for changing soundproofing requirementsVSAvoidtime required for complete system replacement
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The partition system transitions from a static, fixed-height design to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. Modules can be easily stacked to different heights using integrated locking mechanisms, and damping elements can be added or removed from hollow interiors without disassembling the entire structure. This dynamic design enables rapid adaptation to changing acoustic environments.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

When soundproofing requirements change, rather than discarding the entire partition system, individual modules can be retained and reconfigured. The standardized locking elements and stacking interfaces allow existing modules to be recovered and reused in new configurations, significantly reducing material waste and replacement time.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #34Discarding and recovering

3Object-affected harmful factors

If partition elements are made solid to ensure structural stability, then mechanical strength is improved, but sound absorption capability is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesound absorption and reverberation reductionVSAvoidstructural stability of partition elements
Core Design Contradiction:
Object-affected harmful factorsVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The partition elements feature hollow interiors rather than being completely solid, creating localized variations in density and structure. This allows the outer shell to maintain structural integrity while the internal hollow spaces and integrated damping elements provide enhanced sound absorption. The locking elements are strategically positioned to maintain strength at critical connection points while the overall structure remains acoustically effective.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The partition system combines the structural shell material with integrated damping elements that have different acoustic properties. This composite construction allows the outer structure to provide mechanical strength and stability while the damping materials within the hollow interiors provide superior sound absorption and reverberation control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables flexible height adjustment and enhanced soundproofing, reducing reverberation time and noise levels, while maintaining stability and usability as a room divider or privacy screen.

Implementation Method 1

a damping element, in particular a damping mat, can be introduced into the interior of the partition element or that a damping element is located inside the partition element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSound absorption: Acoustic Absorption

Data Source

PatentEP2369080B1Modular moveable wall
Publication Date: 2015.08.05 BUCK PETER
  • EP2369080B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2369080B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2369080B1 patent drawingFigure 3~4c

AI summary

The wall (10) has multiple square-shaped partition wall elements (12) whose upper side accommodates additional partition wall elements. The upper side and/or a lower side of the wall elements have recesses and projections that are complementary to each other. A locking element (18) i.e. clamping lock, is provided in each wall element for connecting two wall elements that are arranged one above the other. The locking element is arranged inside the partition wall element and operated without a tool. A damping element i.e. damping mat, is provided inside the partition wall element.