Snap-Joint Partition Frames for Improved Room Soundproofing

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing partition systems for dividing spaces have limited soundproofing performance, failing to provide adequate sound insulation between rooms.

Innovation Solution

A partition system comprising a frame made of thermoplastic polyolefin mixture-based perimetric profiles and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)-based covering profiles, with glass or other materials for panels, and snap joints for modular assembly, enhancing soundproofing through specific hollows and covers to secure panels.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional masonry or plasterboard walls are used for partition systems, then structural strength and stability are achieved, but soundproofing performance remains limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesoundproofing performanceVSAvoidpartition system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs composite material construction by integrating glass panels with aluminum frame profiles, creating a hybrid partition system that combines the aesthetic and light-transmitting properties of glass with the structural strength and sound-dampening capabilities of metal framing. This composite approach enables superior soundproofing performance while maintaining structural integrity and visual appeal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The partition system utilizes nested structural elements where glass panels are inserted within aluminum frame profiles, and intermediate profiles are positioned within hollow sections of perimetric profiles. This nesting arrangement creates multiple barriers for sound transmission while maintaining a compact and efficient partition structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

2Illumination intensity

If glazed partition panels are used to allow light diffusion, then illumination intensity improves, but sound insulation performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvelight diffusionVSAvoidsound insulation
Core Design Contradiction:
Illumination intensityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system combines transparent glass materials for light diffusion with aluminum frame structures that provide sound insulation. The composite construction allows the glass panels to transmit natural light while the surrounding aluminum profiles and hollow sections create acoustic barriers, simultaneously achieving both illumination and sound insulation objectives.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The partition system applies different material properties to different regions: glass panels are positioned where light transmission is needed, while aluminum frames and hollow sections are strategically placed at edges and joints to provide sound insulation. This local differentiation of material qualities allows the system to optimize both light diffusion and sound insulation performance in their respective zones.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of operation

If modular snap joint assembly is used for ease of installation, then ease of operation improves, but structural strength may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidjoint strength
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The partition system is divided into modular segments including perimetric profiles, intermediate profiles, glass panels, and door assemblies that can be independently manufactured and assembled. The snap joint mechanism enables easy connection of these segmented components during installation while maintaining sufficient structural strength through precise geometric interlocking and material selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentUS20250283327A1Partition system for dividing a room of a building into a plurality of rooms
Publication Date: 2025.09.11 FOURHUNDREDFIFTY INC
  • US20250283327A1 patent drawing
  • US20250283327A1 patent drawing
  • US20250283327A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A partition system (10) for dividing a space, comprising a frame (11) and one or more partition panels (12) mountable on the frame, wherein the frame comprises a plurality of main profiles (100) which comprises at least one plurality of perimetric profiles (110) configured to be fixed to a surface of the space; one or more perimetric profiles are constituted of a main material which is thermoplastic polyolefin mixture-based. Each main profile delimits a first front hollow (102) which, in use, receives an edge (13) of at least one of the partition panels. The frame comprises a plurality of covering profiles (200) which are couplable by means of a snap joint to the plurality of main profiles, and which comprises a plurality of first covers (201) couplable in such a way as to close the first front hollow at the first lateral side obstructing removal of the partition panel.