Overhead Space Divider Panels with Curved Tracks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modular office and home spaces face challenges in effectively separating spaces for different uses, as existing systems lack efficient and flexible solutions for dividing spaces.
Innovation Solution
A system of independent panels mounted on parallel tracks allows for reversible division of spaces, with panels stored overhead when not in use and deployed vertically to form dividers, enabling modular use of space by aligning panels to create temporary offices, rooms, or other divisions as needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If panels are stored overhead when not in use, then space utilization is improved, but device complexity increases due to the need for overhead storage structure and track system
Solution Approach 1:
The patent stores panels vertically in the overhead dimension rather than horizontally on floor space. Panels are suspended from the ceiling structure and can be lowered vertically to divide the space when needed, then raised back to overhead storage when not in use. This dimensional transition from horizontal to vertical storage resolves the contradiction by utilizing unused overhead volume.
Solution Approach 2:
The panel division system transitions from a static fixed partition to a dynamic movable partition. Panels can be lowered from overhead storage to divide the space, and raised back to storage, allowing the space configuration to change dynamically based on needs. This dynamic capability enables space utilization improvement while the panels remain integrated into the overhead structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If panels are lowered to divide space, then adaptability is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to manual lowering and alignment effort
Solution Approach 1:
The track system provides self-guiding functionality where the panels automatically follow the curved track path from overhead storage to their final divided position. The track geometry ensures proper alignment and positioning without requiring manual intervention, allowing the system to serve itself during the deployment process.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved track serves as an intermediary mechanism between the overhead storage position and the final panel division position. It mediates the complex motion required to lower and align panels by providing a pre-designed path that guides the panels through the necessary movements, reducing the operational effort required.
3Manufacturing precision
If curved track portions are used for panel alignment, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to curved track structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs curved (circular arc) track portions instead of straight or angled segments to guide panel alignment. The curved geometry provides smooth, continuous motion paths that naturally guide panels into their correct final positions, improving manufacturing precision by eliminating sharp angles and complex multi-segment joints.
Solution Approach 2:
The curved track combines multiple functions into a single structural element: it guides panel movement, ensures proper alignment, and provides structural support. By merging these functions into the track geometry itself, the design achieves high precision without adding separate alignment mechanisms or complex joint systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for reversibly dividing a space is disclosed. Independent panels, with track followers attached to both narrow sides, move along parallel tracks. The panels start in an overhead storage space. The tracks are shaped such that as the panels move from the storage space into the space to be divided, one panel stops higher and the next panel slides down and then under the first panel. These panels preferably form a single-plane divider in the space.