Partition Mount Coupler with Adjustable Head Length and Position

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing partition systems in construction zones often result in damage to surfaces due to inadequate installation methods, such as nailing, screwing, or using adhesives, which can lead to paint removal or permanent damage, and may still suffer from sag or gaps between the curtain and abutting surfaces.

Innovation Solution

A partition mounting system that includes a coupler with channels and retention tabs allowing for adjustable elongated heads to be slidably coupled, supported by extendable poles, which can be locked in place to eliminate sag and gaps without damaging the ceiling or walls, using a universal joint mechanism to accommodate various configurations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a single elongated head is used to eliminate sag, then the partition effectiveness is improved, but the device complexity increases and may require multiple poles

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvepartition effectivenessVSAvoidnumber of poles and heads

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The elongated head is divided into multiple modular sections that can be connected together. Each section can be independently adjusted and connected via coupling mechanisms, allowing the head to be segmented into manageable units while achieving the required total length to eliminate sag across large openings without needing multiple separate poles

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The elongated head incorporates adjustable and telescopic features that allow dynamic length modification. The head can be extended or retracted depending on the span requirements, providing a single adaptable component that replaces the need for multiple fixed-length heads and poles

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If the pole is positioned to support the elongated head, then the sag elimination is improved, but human movement is inhibited

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesag eliminationVSAvoidhuman movement

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The support function is localized to specific contact points between the pole and the elongated head rather than requiring continuous contact along the entire length. This localized support at strategic positions eliminates sag while leaving the majority of the space free for human movement

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary between the pole and the elongated head, providing flexible connection points that allow the pole to support the head at optimal locations without restricting the overall system's ability to accommodate human movement

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10597882B2Partition mount system including head coupler with adjustable head length and head position

Publication Date: 2020.03.24 ZIPWALL LLC

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.