Partition Wall Panel Clamping via Springy U-Profile

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing partition walls with glass panels are cumbersome to mount and remove due to their weight and require extensive anchoring, which complicates their use in modular construction systems.

Innovation Solution

The use of U-shaped profiles with springy clamping profiles and inward-extending lips on the panels allows for simple mounting and removal of glass panels between horizontal members, enabling easy assembly and disassembly while maintaining a modular structure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If glass panels are firmly anchored in known partition walls for safety, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional anchoring components

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesafety of panel anchoringVSAvoidnumber of additional anchoring components
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines the anchoring function with the horizontal members themselves. The U-shaped profiles of the horizontal members directly clamp the glass panels through their geometry, eliminating the need for separate anchoring components. The base parts of the U-shaped cross-sections face away from each other, creating a clamping action that securely holds the panels while maintaining a clean, component-free appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Strength

If heavy glass panels are used in partition walls, then strength is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates due to laborious mounting and removal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructural strength of glass panelsVSAvoidease of mounting and removal
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables dynamic installation and removal of heavy glass panels through the clamping mechanism. The U-shaped profiles are positioned such that panels can be easily inserted and clamped, and just as easily removed by releasing the clamping action. This dynamic capability allows heavy, strong glass panels to be installed and replaced without special equipment or complex procedures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of manufacture

If standard modular components are used in partition walls, then ease of manufacture is improved, but adaptability deteriorates when varying dimensions are required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodular construction from standard componentsVSAvoidability to realize varying dimensions
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the partition wall into modular horizontal members with standardized U-shaped profiles. These segments can be assembled in various configurations to create walls of different lengths and heights. The clamping mechanism is replicated in each module, allowing standard components to be adapted to varying dimensional requirements through simple reconfiguration rather than custom manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

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 solution facilitates quick and easy installation and removal of panels without compromising the structural integrity or modularity of the partition wall, allowing for customizable dimensions and secure anchoring.

Implementation Method 1

the base part of the U-shaped cross-section of the second profile comprises a springy clamping profile mounted thereon

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElasticity: Elasticity

Data Source

PatentEP2961906B1Partition wall system including clamping of the panels
Publication Date: 2017.11.22 MAARS HLDG BV
  • EP2961906B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2B
  • EP2961906B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP2961906B1 patent drawingFigure 4~6

AI summary

A wall comprising an upper horizontal member to be fixed to a ceiling, a lower horizontal member to be fixed to a floor, and at least one panel provided between the upper horizontal member and the lower horizontal member, characterised in that the lower horizontal member comprises at least two longitudinally extending, elongate profiles of U-shaped cross-section, wherein the first profile is fixed to the floor with a base part of its U-shaped cross-section, wherein the second profile is placed on the first profile, wherein base parts of the U-shaped cross-sections of the two profiles face away from each other, wherein the base part of the U-shaped cross- section of the second profile comprises a springy clamping profile mounted thereon, and wherein the panel comprises a lip fixed to its bottom edge, which lip extends inward and which is clampingly provided between the base part of the U-shaped cross-section of the second profile and the springy clamping profile so as to connect the panel to the lower horizontal member.