Earthquake-Resistant Partition Mounting with Movable Slide
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional partition systems for plaster boards lack sufficient earthquake resistance when loaded with furniture or equipment, as they fail to effectively absorb and distribute the stresses caused by seismic activity without compromising fire-resistant and acoustic properties.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a U-shaped slide and top runner system that allows the upper rail to decouple from the ceiling, enabling vertical movement and snap-fitting mechanisms to absorb seismic forces, while maintaining fire-resistant and acoustic properties through the use of profiled sections and anchorage reinforcing members.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the upper rail is rigidly fixed to the ceiling, then the partition structure is stable and simple, but the partition cannot absorb earthquake stresses and may damage when loaded
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing the rigid fixed connection with a movable connection mechanism. The slide component can move vertically along the top runner, allowing the upper rail to dynamically adjust its position in response to earthquake forces. This dynamic capability enables the partition to absorb seismic stresses without damage while maintaining structural integrity during normal conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the connection system into separate functional components: the top runner fixed to the ceiling, the slide component that moves vertically, and the upper rail that connects to the slide. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, with the slide absorbing earthquake movements while the upper rail maintains partition stability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If reversible snap-fitting means are provided between slide and top runner, then the partition can move vertically during earthquakes, but the mounting mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the self-service principle through the reversible snap-fitting means that automatically engage and disengage based on applied forces. During normal conditions, the snap-fitting mechanism automatically locks the slide to the top runner, providing stable support. During earthquakes, the same mechanism automatically releases, allowing vertical movement without requiring external control systems or complex actuation mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by using the slide component as a mediator between the fixed top runner and the movable upper rail. The slide's reversible snap-fitting connection to the top runner provides a controlled interface that allows vertical movement while maintaining horizontal stability, effectively mediating between the fixed ceiling structure and the flexible partition requirements.
3Reliability
If the upper rail is uncoupled from the ceiling, then the partition can resist earthquake stresses, but the fire-resistant and acoustic properties may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by separating the structural function (earthquake stress resistance) from the protective functions (fire and acoustic performance). The slide and top runner provide the uncoupled structural connection for stress resistance, while the continuous covering boards and uprights maintain the fire and acoustic barriers. This functional segmentation allows each subsystem to optimize for its specific purpose without compromising the others.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by using the slide component as an intermediary that enables stress resistance without directly compromising fire and acoustic properties. The slide's vertical movement capability allows the upper rail to decouple from ceiling stresses while the continuous covering materials maintain the partition's protective barriers, effectively mediating between structural and protective requirements.
4Reliability
If conventional mounting methods are used, then the partition is easy to mount, but the partition fails to resist stresses when loaded during earthquakes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by introducing a movable slide component that can be easily installed using conventional tools and methods. The slide's vertical movement capability provides earthquake stress resistance when loaded, while the straightforward snap-fitting mechanism maintains ease of installation. The dynamic component adds protection without significantly complicating the manufacturing or installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
Device for the earthquake-resistant mounting of a partition between a floor (2) and a ceiling (4). The partition includes: a frame having (i) a lower runner (8) and an upper runner (10) which are essentially horizontal, and (ii) essentially-vertical studs which connect the upper and lower runners; and a coating (6) which is fixed to the frame. The device includes: a contoured slide (18) which is intended to be solidly connected to the upper runner (10) and which has an essentially-U-shaped cross-section, and a top rail (30) which is intended to be fixed to the ceiling (4) and partially housed in the slide (18) between the arms of the U-shaped section thereof. The slide (18) and the top rail (30) are mounted such that they can move vertically in relation to one another. In addition, reversible detent elements are also provided between the slide (18) and the top rail (30).