Partition wall

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing partition walls for desks lack variability and effective noise protection while maintaining privacy, as they often rely on fixed attachment methods that do not allow for flexible positioning or easy installation of accessories.

Innovation Solution

A partition wall design featuring a wall element with magnetic counter-retaining elements that interact with contact areas on the wall surfaces, utilizing a combination of magnetic force and form-fit connection with recesses, allowing for adjustable placement and easy attachment to a desk, while also accommodating accessories like hooks or containers.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Stability of the object's composition

If fixed attachment methods are used for partition walls, then structural stability is improved, but variability and flexibility are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural stabilityVSAvoidvariability
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by replacing fixed attachment methods with a magnetic retention system. The retaining element with magnetic counter-retaining elements allows the partition wall to be dynamically positioned, removed, and repositioned at will, transforming a static structure into a dynamic one that maintains stability through magnetic force while enabling variability through easy reconfiguration.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the attachment system into separate components: a retaining element with magnetic counter-retaining elements and a corresponding contact area on the partition wall. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component and enables flexible assembly/disassembly while maintaining structural integrity during use.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If magnetic attachment systems are used, then ease of installation and variability are improved, but attachment strength is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidattachment strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges two retention mechanisms into a single system: magnetic force for easy attachment and form-fit connection through the depression-shaped contact area for enhanced strength. The retaining element combines magnetic counter-retaining elements with a geometrically complementary contact area, creating a hybrid retention system that provides both ease of installation and strong attachment.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies the composite materials principle by combining different retention mechanisms (magnetic and mechanical form-fit) into a unified attachment system. The retaining element integrates magnetic components with a structurally optimized contact area featuring a depression, creating a composite retention solution that leverages the advantages of both magnetic attraction and geometric interlocking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Adaptability or versatility

If accessories are added to enhance functionality, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadaptabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies universality by designing the retaining element as a multi-functional component. The same retaining element with magnetic counter-retaining elements and depression-shaped contact area serves both as an attachment mechanism for the partition wall and as a mounting system for various accessories. This universal design allows hooks, containers, and other accessories to be attached using the same magnetic retention principle, enhancing adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity.

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

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 enhances variability and ease of use by providing a secure, adjustable attachment system that balances noise protection and privacy, allowing for flexible placement and easy installation of accessories, while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

Implementation Method 1

a counter-retaining element is provided which interacts magnetically with a contact area of the retaining element

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic force: Magnetism

Data Source

PatentEP3311697B1Partition wall
Publication Date: 2022.01.05 KONIG NEURATH AG
  • EP3311697B1 patent drawingFigure 1~3
  • EP3311697B1 patent drawingFigure 4~5

AI summary

The invention relates to a partition wall, comprising a wall element (1) with two wall surfaces (1.1) designed as a front and rear side and at least one holding element (2) connected to the wall element (1), the wall element (1) having a depression (3) having. According to the invention, a counter-retaining element (4) interacting magnetically with a contact area of ​​the retaining element (2) touching one wall surface (1.1) and touching the other wall surface (1.1) is provided, with either the contact area or the counter-retaining element (4) being attached to the recess ( 3) is formed to conform to and positioned within.