Partition Trolley Layout for Shallow Wall Pocket Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional movable partition systems require a deep pocket in the wall for storage when retracted, which can be inefficient in terms of space utilization and may lead to increased installation costs due to the need for a larger pocket depth.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a trolley system with a frame member and support rollers that attach to a floating jamb, allowing the partition to be stored in a shallower pocket by optimizing the placement and orientation of rollers and the jamb attachment portion, reducing the overall depth required for the pocket.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional motor-driven partition system is used with the motor fixed in the wall pocket, then the partition can be automatically extended and retracted, but the pocket depth increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The motor is extracted from the fixed wall pocket location and relocated to the moving trolley assembly. This allows the motor to move with the partition when retracted, eliminating the need for a deep fixed pocket to accommodate the motor and control components. The control box is similarly extracted and mounted on the trolley rather than fixed in the wall.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static motor mounted in the wall to a dynamic motor mounted on the moving trolley. The motor and control components become part of the moving assembly rather than fixed infrastructure, allowing the pocket depth to be determined by the retracted partition size rather than component dimensions.
2Area of stationary object
If the pocket depth is reduced for space efficiency, then space utilization improves, but the partition system may not have sufficient space for motor and control components
Solution Approach 1:
The motor, control box, and other components are nested within the trolley assembly and floating jamb structure. When the partition is retracted, these components are contained within the compact trolley unit that fits within the reduced-depth pocket, eliminating the need for separate dedicated spaces for each component.
Solution Approach 2:
The trolley assembly serves multiple functions: it provides the mounting structure for the motor, houses the control box, supports the partition weight via rollers, and acts as the moving carrier for all components. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated spaces for each component system.
3Length of stationary object
If the trolley is positioned deeper in the pocket for compact storage, then pocket depth is reduced, but the trolley may become misaligned or askew during operation
Solution Approach 1:
The floating jamb acts as an intermediary structure between the trolley and the wall pocket. It provides a stable mounting interface that ensures proper alignment of the trolley within the pocket, preventing misalignment during operation while allowing the trolley to be positioned optimally for compact storage.
Solution Approach 2:
The floating jamb and trolley attachment mechanism create a balanced, stable configuration where the trolley is properly positioned within the pocket depth. The design ensures that gravitational and operational forces are evenly distributed, preventing the trolley from becoming askew during partition movement.
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
This design reduces the required depth of the pocket by up to six inches, enhancing space efficiency and potentially lowering installation costs by minimizing the necessary pocket size.
Implementation Method 1
A trolley configured to attach to the floating jamb and rollingly engage with the track
Implementation Method 2
support and guide rollers that minimize the depth required for the pocket by preventing the trolley from becoming askew
Data Source
AI summary
Partition systems comprise a track and at least one partition configured to hang from and move along the track. A control box configured to contain at least a power supply for supplying power to a drive system, a floating jamb, and a trolley configured to attach to the floating jamb and rollingly engage with the track are also included. The trolley comprises at least one frame member comprising a jamb attachment portion configured to attach to the floating jamb, a distance from the jamb attachment portion to a rearmost surface of the at least one frame member opposite an end of the at least one frame member configured to face the at least one partition being less than or equal to a thickness of the control box in a direction at least substantially parallel to a direction of movement of the trolley. At least one support roller is attached to the at least one frame member and configured to engage with the track.