Pivot Joint Partition Structure for Quick Angle Adjustment

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Solution Overview

Problem

Traditional partition systems are difficult to assemble, require numerous parts, and are not easily customizable in terms of size, shape, or configuration, necessitating labor-intensive adjustments to modify the relative angle between partition walls.

Innovation Solution

A pivot joint system with partial circular cross-sections and a stop member limiting pivot range, combined with tab connectors for easy assembly and adjustment, using metal extrusions like aluminum.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of manufacture

If traditional partition systems are used, then partition walls can be assembled, but the assembly process is difficult and time-consuming requiring numerous parts

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of assemblyVSAvoidnumber of parts
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The pivot joint combines multiple functional elements (connection mechanism, pivot axis, stop member) into a single integrated component. The linking structure joins the two pivot structures together, creating one unified assembly that replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate parts and fasteners, thereby simplifying assembly while maintaining adjustability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

2Adaptability or versatility

If traditional partition systems are used, then partition walls can be assembled, but adjustment of relative angle requires partial disassembly and reassembly which is labor-intensive

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadjustability of angleVSAvoidease of adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The pivot joint enables dynamic adjustment of the angle between wall panels through a pivot mechanism that allows rotation about a pivot axis. The stop member provides controlled limitation to this rotation, creating a dynamic system that can be easily adjusted within a specific range without requiring disassembly, thus improving ease of operation while maintaining adaptability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If traditional partition systems are used, then partition walls can be assembled, but modification of configuration is time-consuming

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomizability of configurationVSAvoidtime for adjustment
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The stop member is pre-configured at specific positions along the linking structure to define predetermined angular ranges. This preliminary positioning of adjustment limits allows users to quickly select and adjust to desired configurations without time-consuming measurements or calculations, as the acceptable angle ranges are already established by the stop member positions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS12371902B2Partition system
Publication Date: 2025.07.29 EVANS CONSOLES CORP
  • US12371902B2 patent drawing
  • US12371902B2 patent drawing
  • US12371902B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A partition system has at least one pivot joint, each pivot joint having two pivot structures with partial circular cross-sections centered on a pivot axis. Each pivot structure engages with one of a plurality of wall panels and permits the engaged wall panel to pivot about the pivot axis. A linking structure extends between and joins the two pivot structures. A stop member extends outwardly from the linking structure to limit a range within which the wall panels can pivot about the pivot axis. Each of the wall panels has a pair of parallel tabs extending substantially perpendicularly from at least one end face of the wall panel. At least one parallel tab has an end flange extending inwardly toward the second tab. The end flange snap fit onto one of the pivot structures. Each of the wall panels is pivotally connected to the at least one pivot joint.