NL2034329B1

NL2034329B1 - Knitted architectural element

Info

Publication number: NL2034329B1
Application number: NL2034329A
Authority: NL
Inventors: Gillette Jason; Gupta Ravi; Blocher Virginia; De Jager Pieter; Dunnwald Philipp; Luning Hanneke
Original assignee: Arktura B V
Priority date: 2023-03-13
Filing date: 2023-03-13
Publication date: 2024-09-24
Also published as: WO2024191296A1

Abstract

Architectural element, such as a wall panel or ceiling panel, the architectural element comprising: - a frame, comprising at least a first connection element for connecting a knitted sheet of fabric to; and - a knitted sheet of fabric; wherein the knitted sheet of fabric is connected to the frame Via the first connection element and wherein the knitted sheet of fabric is spanned relative to the first connection element.

Description

P134162NL00

Title: Knitted architectural element

TECHNICAL FIELD

The aspects and embodiment thereof relate to the field of architectural elements, such as wall or ceiling coverings.

BACKGROUND

Architectural elements, such as wall or ceiling panels, are generally used to cover parts of a building, such as parts of a ceiling, floor, interior wall or exterior wall. An architectural element may provide for improved aesthetics, but also provide other benefits for example related to acoustics.

For example for acoustic benefits, it has been proposed to use fabrie sheets in architectural elements. Since fabric sheets typically lack stiffness, they have to be spanned onto a frame. For example, US20210002905A1 proposes a fabric mounting system adapted to extend a fabric covering at least a part of a wall or ceiling, including at least a first mounting profile having a longitudinal direction and being adapted to be mounted to the wall or ceiling and at least one first fabric retaining element engaging the first mounting profile and being adapted to retain a first edge of the fabric.

SUMMARY

It has been observed that although the know fabric mounting system functions properly with woven sheets of fabric, for knitted fabric, difficulties arise. A key difference between woven fabric and knitted fabric is that knitted fabrics are formed by connected loops of yarn. On the contrary, a woven fabric is formed by weaving threads at right angles relative to one another — thus in two orthogonal directions. As a result of the weaving process, a woven fabric can typically not be stretched significantly in the orthogonal directions parallel to the directions of the threads. It is sometimes however possible to stretch a woven fabric in a direction diagonal to the orthogonal directions parallel to the directions of the threads.

A knitted fabric on the contrary may exhibit different resistance to stretching in many different directions. Furthermore, by virtue of the knitting process being very flexible, for example with differing distances between adjacent loops, the resistance to stretching in the same direction may changes of the length or width of the knitted fabric.

As a result of the different processes of forming a woven fabric and a knitted fabric, a woven fabric is typically more convenient to handle by virtue of the weaving process, especially when the fabric has to be spanned.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide for architectural elements which comprise one or more knitted sheets of fabric. This allows to make use of specific properties and benefits that knitted sheets of fabric have over conventionally used woven sheets of fabric, while still being able to conveniently manufacture and/or assemble the architectural element.

It may be desired to use a knitted sheet of fabric, for example because of the flexibility of the knitting process. This allows the knitted sheet of fabric for example to have a changing appearance over its length and/or width, for example formed by differently sized pockets. Additionally or alternatively, a knitting process allows parts of the knitted sheet to have a different thickness compared to adjacent parts of the knitted sheet — for example using 3D knitting technology. Additionally or alternatively, using a knitting process, a sheet of fabric can be formed from a single strand of yarn.

This means that typically less or even no material has to be wasted, and a knitted sheet can be recycled by unravelling the single strand of yarn, which then can be used to form a new knitted sheet.

A first aspect of the present disclosure provides an architectural element, such as a wall panel or ceiling panel, comprising a frame, comprising at least one connection element for connecting a knitted sheet of fabric to, and a knitted sheet of fabric. The knitted sheet of fabric is connected to the frame via the at least one connection element and the knitted sheet of fabric is spanned relative to the first connection element, in particular in a direction away from the at least one connection element.

By spanning the knitted sheet of fabric away from the at least one connection element, the appearance of the knitted sheet of fabric can be manipulated. For example, openings or apertures knitted into the knitted sheet can be enlarged by further spanning the knitted sheet of fabric away from the at least one connection element. Additionally or alternatively, spanning the knitted sheet may prevent parts of the knitted sheet from sagging, which may have an unappealing look.

Preferably, but not necessarily, the knitted sheet of fabric is formed by or even consists of a single uninterrupted strand of yarn. This implies that the knitted sheet of fabric has not been cut or the yarn has been otherwise severed. The knitted sheet of fabric can thus be a fully fashioned knitted sheet of fabric. It will be appreciated that a single uninterrupted strand of yarn may be formed by connecting multiple lengths of yarn together, which multiple lengths of yarn may be formed by yarn with similar or different properties, such as colour, quality, and/or structure. As such, a single uninterrupted strand of yarn may be obtained with the same of different properties along its length. By tuning the knitting process together with the properties of the yarn for particular sections of the yarn, these properties may be obtained for different parts of the knitted sheet.

In general, whenever the knitted sheet of fabric is said to spanned, at least one dimension of the knitted sheet of fabric is increased in a spanning direction compared to a not spanned or relaxed state of the knitted sheet of fabric. In the not spanned or relaxed state of the knitted sheet of fabric, essentially no forces are applied to the knitted sheet of fabric in the spanning direction.

When the knitted sheet of fabric is spanned relative to a connection element, such as to the first connection element, the spanning direction can be perpendicular to an elongation direction of the first connection element.

Any knitted sheet of fabric disclosed herein may comprise one or more locally thickened sections, in particular at a distance from the edges of the knitted sheet. For example, technology referred to as 4D-knitting may be used to form 3D-structures on top of the knitted sheet of fabric, thereby creating a surface with a distinct relief and/or embossments. Such 3D- structures may for example be used to enhance acoustic properties of the knitted sheet, to allow for different transmission of light through the sheet, and/or to allow different parts of the sheet to have different resistance to being stretched. A locally thickened section may for example have a thickness of 2 times or more, 3 times or more, or even 4 time or more compared to the thickness of adjacent sections of the knitted sheet.

A locally thickened section may be formed by a locally different knitting pattern, and/or by using a different yarn — for example a yarn with an increased diameter.

In any embodiment of the architectural element, the frame may further comprise a second connection element for connecting a knitted sheet of fabric to, which second connection element is positioned at an angle relative the first connection element, and wherein the knitted sheet of fabric is connected to the frame via the second connection element and the knitted sheet of fabric is spanned relative to the second connection element.

The angle between the first connection element and the second connection element may for example be 90 degrees, but can conceivably be any other angle. The frame may thus be a square or rectangular frame, for example a 60 cm x 120 cm frame, but can conceivably have any other shape, such as but not limited to triangular, circular, or shaped as any polygon, or even any organic form formed with one or more connected curved line segments. It will be understood that wherever in the present disclosure a particular shape of a frame- such as a rectangular frame — is depicted, also frames of any other shape are envisioned.

When any of the architectural element disclosed further comprises a third connection element for connecting a knitted sheet of fabric to, which 5 third connection element is positioned substantially parallel to the first connection element, and the knitted sheet of fabrie may be connected to the frame via the third connection element and the knitted sheet of fabric may be spanned relative to the third connection element. In particular, the knitted sheet of fabric may be spanned between the first connection element and the third connection element.

Any architectural element may thus comprise the second connection element, the third connection element, or both. Any architectural element may comprise even further connection elements.

Generally, the frame of the architectural element may comprise one or more frame parts forming the frame. Frame parts may be interconnected at or near their ends to form the frame. A rectangular frame can as such be formed by four interconnected frame parts. Furthermore, in general, per frame part, one or more connection elements may be provided. As such, preferably, the knitted sheet can be spanned relative to each frame part.

A frame can be formed by one or more frame parts, and can be an open frame or a closed frame. An open frame typically defines the outer perimeter of the architectural element, and connection elements of an open frame will typically but not necessarily be positioned at or near the outer perimeter of the architectural element. Frame parts may be slender frame parts, for example elongated in shape, to form the perimeter of the open frame.

When an at least partially closed frame is used, for example one or more connection elements may be positioned at a distance from the perimeter of the architectural element, for example at or near the centre of the architectural element, or between the centre and the perimeter of the architectural element. As a further option, when an at least partially closed frame is used, the frame may have a three-dimensional shape over which the knitted sheet may be spanned. The knitted sheet may then be formed according to the three-dimensional shape of the frame. The three-dimensional shape of the frame may be defined by one or more frame parts which are not necessarily slender or even elongated in shape. In general, any frame part may provide one or more surfaces with any surface area and any shape over which the knitted sheet may be spanned. It will in particular be understood that one or more frame parts may at least be partially positioned at a distance from the perimeter of the frame.

As a particular example of a connection element, the first connection element or conceivable any other connection element disclosed herein may comprise a set of registration members, which are spaced apart from one another. In assembled state of an architectural element comprising such a connection element, the registration members can protrude through the knitted sheet of fabric. In particular each registration member can protrude through one or more loops or stiches of the knitted sheet of fabric, or through an aperture in the knitted sheet of fabric which is surrounded by multiple loops or stiches.

By virtue of the set of registration members, particular discrete locations can be defined. By subsequently connecting the kitted sheet of fabric to the registration member — i.e. by inserting the registration members through one or more loops, stiches or apertures of the knitted sheet of fabric — discrete locations for these one or more loops, stiches or apertures can be defined. For a knitted sheet of fabric, it may be advantageous to be able to define discrete locations for one or more loops or stiches, which would not be possible for example with the system of US20210002905A1.

When any architectural element of the present disclosure comprises a connection element with set of registration members, a set of apertures may be knitted into the knitted sheet of fabric.

As a particular option for a registration member, a button may be used. The apertures in the knitted sheet then form button holes through which the button can be passed.

Generally, it will be understood that an aperture knitted into the knitted sheet of fabric is different from a loop or stitch. An aperture is a result of a particular knitting pattern, and an aperture is surrounded by multiple loops and/or stitches. This generally allows an aperture to form a larger opening through the knitted sheet, compared to a loop or stitch. An aperture can thus be a discontinuity in the interconnected loops and/or stitches forming the knitted sheet.

Alternatively to being knitted into the sheet, any aperture may be formed by locally cutting or trimming the knitted sheet.

Any aperture may be visually and/or haptically marked using a coloured section of yarn and/or a specific knitting pattern around the aperture and/or a section of yarn of a different quality, texture and/or structure than adjacent sections of yarn. As such, it may become more convenient for user to assemble an architectural element by inserting a particular protrusion through the marked aperture.

When a set of apertures is knitted into the knitted sheet of fabric, a spacing between the apertures may be increased or decreased to correspond to the spacing between the registration members of a connection element by virtue of the knitted sheet of fabric being spanned relative to the connection element. For example when the connection element is an elongated connection element, and the registration members are generally set up along an elongation direction of the connection element, the knitted sheet of fabric can be spanned relative to the connection element in the elongation direction of the connection element.

Generally, registration members may be formed as teeth of a generally comb-shaped connection element. As another example, the registration members may be formed as pins, protrusions, bosses, rivets, or any other elongated member arranged to be inserted into a loop, stitch, or aperture of a knitted sheet.

As another particular example of a connection element, the first connection element or conceivable any other connection element disclosed herein may comprise a reception space with an opening into the reception space.

In particular, but not necessarily in combination with a connection element with the reception space, any knitted sheet disclosed herein may comprise one or more locally thickened section formed by the knitted sheet of fabric itself, in particular by the strand or strands of yarn forming the knitted sheet of fabric. A locally thickened section has a greater thickness than a section of the knitted sheet of fabric adjacent to the locally thickened section.

A locally thickened section may be used to form the connection with a connection element, such as a connection element comprising a reception space with an opening into the reception space.

When the locally thickened section is formed by the knitted sheet of fabric itself, it may be convenient to manufacture the knitted sheet of fabric and/or it may be prevented that another type of material has to be used to form a locally thickened section. It may hence become more convenient to recycle the architectural element because it comprises less different types of material.

Any locally thickened section may have a thickness exceeding two times or more a thickness of an adjacent section of the knitted sheet of fabric adjacent to the locally thickened section, preferably exceeding even three or four times or more. Any locally thickened section may for example have a thickness between 2 — 40 mm, m particular between 10 — 30 mm, or even between 15-20 mm, or any other thickness. A locally thickened section may for example be formed by locally adjusting the knitting process while the knitted sheet of fabric is being formed.

A locally thickened section of a knitted sheet of fabric can be at least partially positioned in the reception space of a connection element comprising such a reception space. When an opening into the reception space has a height smaller than the thickness of the locally thickened section, the locally thickened section may be trapped inside the reception space. This in turn allows the knitted sheet of fabric to be spanned in a direction generally facing away from the reception space.

For example to facilitate inserting the locally thickened section into the reception space through the opening, the height of the opening into the reception space may preferably but not necessarily be resiliently increased.

Additionally or alternative, the thickness of the locally thickened section may be temporarily reduced when the locally thickened section is moved through the opening.

Instead of or next to using a locally thickened section to form the connection with the first connection element, a tube-like structure may be knitted into the knitted sheet of fabric. By inserting a body into the tube-like structure, also a locally thickened section may be obtained.

The process of knitting a sheet of fabric may allow from one or more apertures to be formed through the knitted sheet of fabric at a distance from one or more edges of the knitted sheet of fabric — or in other words, at a distance from an outer circumference or outer perimeter of the knitted sheet.

This allows for more creativity of design for the architectural element, and allows one or more apertures to be designed around building elements such as light, air vents, sprinklers, and other building features.

When a knitted sheet comprises an aperture, in particular an aperture positioned at a distance from the edges of the knitted sheet of fabric, for example closer to a centre of the knitted sheet that to any of te edges, an aperture support may be connected to at least part of the knitted sheet surrounding at least one of the apertures through the knitted sheet. The aperture support may have a higher stiffness than the knitted sheet, and may allow for the shape of the aperture to be maintained — e.g. by preventing sagging of part of the knitted sheet surrounding the aperture.

Any architectural element disclosed herein may comprise a first knitted sheet of fabric and a second knitted sheet of fabric. When the architectural element comprises a second knitted sheets of fabric, the second knitted sheet of fabric may be connected to the frame via the first connection element and the second knitted sheet of fabric may be spanned relative to the first connection element, in particular away from the first knitted sheet of fabric.

As an option applicable to any architectural element disclosed herein, the knitted sheet of fabric may be at least partially wrapped around at least part of the frame. As such, the visual appearance of the architectural element may be improved because the at least part of the frame can be hidden behind the knitted sheet of fabric.

As an option applicable to any knitted sheet disclosed herein, the knitted sheet may have one or more visible markings at or near at least one edge of the knitted sheet. Preferably, the one or more visible markings are formed by the knitted sheet itself, and are thus formed during the knitting process of forming the knitted sheet.

When a connection element of the frame is a magnet, a ferromagnetic element can be connected or comprised by the knitted sheet and used to connect the knitted sheet to the frame via the connection element.

The ferromagnetic element can for example be knitted or woven into the knitted sheet, or connected in any other manner. It is even envisioned that the ferromagnetic element is separate from the knitted sheet, and the knitted sheet is merely clamped between the magnet and the ferromagnetic element.

Also when the ferromagnetic element is connected or comprised by the knitted sheet, the knitted sheet may be clamped between the magnet and the ferromagnetic element.

A second aspect of the present disclosure provides an architectural element assembly comprising a plurality of architectural elements positioned adjacent to each other. To conveniently align adjacent architectural elements, a first visible marking of the first architectural element may be aligned with a second visible marking of the second architectural element.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

In the figures,

Figs. 1A and 1B show an architectural element;

Fig. 2A shows a section view of an example of a frame part;

Fig. 2B shows a section view of another example of a frame part;

Fig. 2C shows a front view or bottom view of an architectural element comprising the frame part depicted in Fig. 2B;

Fig. 3A shows part of another example of an architectural element;

Fig. 3B shows a section view of the architectural element depicted in Fig. 3A;

Fig. 3C shows an exploded view of the architectural element depicted in Fig. 3A;

Figs. 4A and 4B show two examples of architectural elements;

Figs. 5A and 5B show yet another example of part of an architectural element;

Figs. 6A-6C show yet another example of part of an architectural element;

Figs. 7A-7C show in an isometric view subsequent steps in a method of forming an architectural element;

Fig. 7D shows a section view of part of the formed architectural element;

Figs. 8A-8C depict three examples of how registration members can protrude through apertures of a knitted sheet;

Figs. 9A-9C show an example of an architectural element comprising a knitted sheet of fabric;

Fig. 10A shows an example of a knitted sheet of fabric;

Fig. 10B shows an architectural element assembly;

Fig. 10C shows a detailed view of part of two adjacent architectural elements;

Figs. 11A-11D show examples of knitted sheets, or parts thereof;

Fig. 12A part of an architectural element;

Fig. 12B shows a side view of the architectural element of Fig. 124A;

Figs. 13A and 13B respectively show a front side and a rear side of another example of an architectural element.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Figs. 1A and 1B show an architectural element 100. The architectural 100 element may be a wall panel, making Figs. 1A and 1B for example a front view, or a ceiling panel, making Figs. 1A and 1B for example a bottom view. The architectural element 100 comprises a frame 101, which in the examples of Figs. 1A and 1B is a square frame. It will however be understood that for any frame disclosed herein, the frame may alternatively be rectangular, circular, triangular, or have any other shape for example of any polygon.

When the frame 101 is a square, rectangular, trapezoid frame, or other quadrilateral frame, the frame can comprise a first frame part 102, second frame part 104, third frame part 106, and fourth frame part 108. One or more or each frame part can be provided with a connection element arranged for connecting a knitted sheet of fabric to, such that the knitted sheet of fabric can be spanned relative to the frame 101. Fig. 1A shows the frame 101 without the knitted sheet of fabric. Multiple frame parts may be separate frame parts which are connected to each other, or multiple frame parts may be integrally formed. Generally, the frame parts together surround an open space.

Two frame parts can be connected at or near their ends. All of the frame parts of a frame 101, for example as depicted in Fig. 1A, can be interconnected at or near their ends to form a stiff frame 101. A frame 101 can generally be connected or connectable to a wall of a building to form a wall panel and/or to a ceiling of a building to form a ceiling panel.

Fig. 1B shows the frame 101 of Fig. 1A with a knitted sheet of fabric 200 spanned over the frame 101, preferably in such a way that in the side view or bottom view of Fig. 1B the frame 101 is positioned entirely behind the kitted sheet 200. The frame 101 provided stiffness to the otherwise flexible knitted sheet of fabric 200, and allows the knitted sheet of fabric 200 to be spanned, also referred to as tensioned, in one or more directions. Preferably, but not necessarily, the knitted sheet 200 is spanned between opposing frame parts.

Fig. 2A shows a section view of an example of a first frame part 102. The first frame part 102 has two protruding elements 124, 126 defining a reception space 120. Using the two protruding elements 124, 126, the knitted sheet of fabric 200 is connected to the first frame part 102, and the protruding elements 124, 126 thus form a particular example of a connection element. The connection between the connection element and the knitted sheet of fabric 200 allows the knitted sheet 200 to be spanned relative to the first frame part 102, for example in a direction generally indicated with arrow

A in Fig. 2A. The protruding elements 124, 126 may for example be formed by one or more separate fingers, or may be elongated together with the first frame part 102. The first frame part 102 and the protruding elements 124, 126 may for example be formed together in an extrusion process.

The knitted sheet 200 as depicted in Fig. 2A comprises a locally thickened section 202 formed by the knitted sheet of fabric 200 itself. The thickened section 202 is positioned in the reception space 120 of the connection element. The knitted sheet of fabric 200 passes through an opening 122 of the connection element, which opening 122 leads into the reception space 120.

A height A of the opening 122 of the connection element is smaller than a thickness ¢ of the locally thickened section 202 of the knitted sheet of fabric 200. As such, the locally thickened section 202 can be held in the reception space 120 as the knitted sheet 200 is spanned away from the frame part 102. The thickness t of the locally thickened section 202 is larger than the thickness t’ of an adjacent part of the knitted sheet 200.

The reception space 120 is formed by the two protruding elements 124, 126 of the connection element. At the distal ends of the protruding elements 124, 126, the opening 122 is formed. When the distal ends of the protruding elements 124, 126 can be moved away from each other, preferably essentially only by elastic deformation, the height A of the opening can be adjusted. This may be preferred for example when passing the thickened section 202 through the opening 122.

Preferably, but no necessarily, as depicted in Fig. 2A, the knitted sheet of fabric 200 is at least partially folded over itself. In particular, the locally thickened section 202 is at least partially folded over another part of the knitted sheet 200. Additionally or alternatively, the knitted sheet of fabric 200 can be folded over part of the connection element and/or over the frame part 102, for example over part of the protruding element 126. This can allow the connection element and/or the frame part 102 to become positioned behind the knitted sheet 200, and can in turn be used to hide at least part of the connection element and/or the frame part 102 behind the knitted sheet 200.

Fig. 2B shows a section view of another example of the first frame part 102, to which a first knitted sheet 200 and a second knitted sheet 200° are connected. Both the first knitted sheet 200 and the second knitted sheet 200’ comprise a locally thickened section 202, 202’. The locally thickened sections 202, 202’ are positioned in a reception space 120 of a connection element formed by protruding elements 123, 124, 125, 126. Both knitted sheets 200, 200’ pass through the opening 122 formed between distal ends of the protruding elements 124, 126 of the connection element.

A first set of protruding elements 123, 125 protrudes away from the first frame part 102, preferably but not necessarily generally parallel to one another and/or perpendicular to the frame part 102. A second set of protruding elements 124, 126 extend respectively from the protruding elements 123, 125 of the first set, generally towards the first frame part 102.

The second set of protruding elements 124, 126 preferably converge towards an opening 122. As such, when one or both of the knitted sheets 200, 200’ are pulled away from the frame part 102 and/or when it is attempted to pull the locally thickened sections 202, 202’ through the opening 122, the size of the opening 122 can decrease, thereby preventing the locally thickened sections 202, 202’ from accidentally passing through the opening 122, for example when spanning the knitted sheets 200, 200’ in the respective directions B and C.

It will be understood that the connection element of the frame part 102 of Fig. 2B can also be used with a single knitted sheet 200. Furthermore, it will be understood that the connection element of the frame part 102 of Fig. 2A can also be used with multiple knitted sheets.

Fig. 2C shows a front view or bottom view of an architectural element 100 comprising the frame part 102 depicted in Fig. 2B, with the two knitted sheets of fabric 200, 200’. As can be seen in Figs. 2B and 2C, the knitted sheets 200, 200° are spanned in generally opposite directions B and

C, away from the frame part 102.

Fig. 3A shows part of another example of an architectural element 100, in particular showing part of a first frame part 102 and a second frame part 104 of a frame 101. The first frame part 102 and the second frame part 104 are positioned at an angle relative to each other, preferably a 90 degree angle. The architectural element 100 comprises a knitted sheet of fabric 200,

which is connected to the frame 101 using particular examples of connection elements 130.

Fig. 3B shows a section view of the architectural element 100 depicted in Fig. 3A. Fig. 3C shows an exploded view of the architectural element 100 depicted in Fig. 3A.

As can be see for example in Fig. 3B, the connection elements 130 comprise one or more registration members 131, here embodied as rivets. The registration members 131 each protrude through an aperture 204 of the knitted sheet 200, which apertures 204 are preferably formed by the knitting process by which the knitted sheet 200 has been formed. Alternatively, any registration member 131 may protrude through a loop or stitch of the knitted sheet 200.

The frame 101 of the architectural element 100 depicted in Figs. 3A-3C further comprises a support element 132, and in assembled state, part of the knitted sheet 200 is positioned between the support element 132 and the frame parts 102, 104. The rivets 131 protrude through a hole in the support element 132 and through a hole in one of the frame parts 102, 104.

The support element 132 can for example form a rectangular frame part, or any other frame part preferably with a shape corresponding to at least part of the shape formed by the frame parts 102, 104.

As can be seen in Fig. 3B, the knitted sheet 200 can be partially folded over itself, and can thus be partially folded over or wrapped around the support element 132. This in turn in use allows the support element 132 and/or other parts of frame 101 to remain out of sight — z.e. hidden behind the knitted sheet 200. Furthermore, as depicted in Fig. 3B, as a preference, the knitted sheet 200 is folded over the support element 132.

Figs. 4A and 4B show two examples of architectural elements 100, which use registration members as connection elements 130, for connecting the knitted sheet of fabric 200 to the frame 101. Preferably, per registration member, a position of the knitted sheet of fabric 200 1s fixed relative to the frame. As such, the knitted sheet 200 can be spanned relative to each registration member.

In the example of Fig. 4A, per frame part 102, 104, 106, 108 at least two registration members 130 are provided, which are spaced apart respectively per frame part. In the example of Fig. 4B, the registration members 130 are positioned on the corners of the frame. As such, it will be understood that a single registration member 130 may be shared by multiple frame parts 102, 104, 106, 108. It will be understood that generally, any architectural element 100 may comprise any number of registration members per frame part, including no registration member for some or all frame parts, in any combination thereof.

Figs. 5A and 5B show yet another example of part of an architectural element 100, in particular part of a frame part 102 and a knitted sheet of fabric 200. Fig. 5A shows a section view, and Fig. 5B shows an exploded isometric view. The frame part 102 is elongated in an elongation direction e indicated in Fig. 5B.

The frame part 102 depicted in Figs. 5A and 5B comprises a set of registration members 130. The registration members 130 can for example be formed as teeth of a comb. As generally indicated in Fig. 5B, the registration members 130 are spaced apart from one another with a particular spacing s.

Generally, the spacing s may be constant between all adjacent registration members 130, or may be different between different registration members 130. The registration members 130 are preferably aligned in the elongation direction e.

In the example of Figs. 5A and 5B, but not necessarily for other embodiments of architectural elements, the registration members 130 protrude from a folded-over section 150 of the frame part 102. Relative to the rest of the frame part 102, the folded-over section 150 is oriented in an opposite direction. Between the folded-over section 150 and the rest of the frame part 102 a bending zone 152 is present. The folded-over section 150 with the registration members 130 forms a particular example of a connection element for connecting a knitted sheet of fabric. The folded-over section 150 can be integrally formed with the frame part 102.

In use, the registration members 130 protrude through the knitted sheet of fabric 200. This allows the sheet of fabric to be spanned away from the registration members 130. The registration members 130 in particular protrude through apertures 204 in the knitted sheet 200. As such, the position of these apertures 204 can be fixed to the position of the registration members 130.

To connect the knitted sheet 200 to the registration members 130, it may be required to span part of the knitted sheet 200, for example to increase a spacing between adjacent apertures 204 such that the spacing corresponds to the spacing s between the registration members 130. This applies to any embodiment of any connection element disclosed herein comprising registration members 130.

Figs. 6A-6C show yet another example of part of an architectural element 100 comprising a frame part 102. Fig. 6A shows a section view, Fig. 6B shows an exploded isometric view, and Fig. 6C shows an isometric view of the assembled part of the architectural element 100.

Connected to the frame part 102 is a registration member support 160 from which a set of registration members 130 protrude. The registration member support 160 can be said to form a comb with the registration members 130 as teeth. As with any set of registration members disclosed herein, a constant or non-constant spacing s may be used between adjacent registration members 130.

In the example of Figs. 6A-6C, as an option, the registration member support 160 is connected to the frame part 102 using a plurality of connection members 162, such as bolts, nuts, screws, rivets, or any other type of connection member. Alternatively, the registration member support 160 may for example be glued, welded, or otherwise connected to the frame part

102. Preferably, but not necessarily, the connection between the registration member support 160 and the frame part 102 is releasable without having to plastically deform the registration member support 160 and/or the frame part 102.

It will hence be understood that the registration member support 160 may be separate body which is separate from the frame part 102. As such, in a method of assembling an architectural element, first the knitted sheet 200 can be connected to the registration member support 160, and subsequently the registration member support 160 can be connected to the frame part 102. Optionally, after the registration member support 160 has been connected to the frame part 102, the knitted sheet 200 can be partially wrapped around the frame part 102 to end up in the position depicted in Fig.

GA.

Figs. 7A-7C show in an isometric view subsequent steps in a method of forming an architectural element 100. Fig. 7D shows a section view of part of the formed architectural element 100. As with many of the other figures, in Figs. 7A-7D only part of a single frame part 102 of the architectural element 100 is depicted for clarity and conciseness of the figures.

The example of the architectural element 100 partially shown in

Figs. 7A-7D comprises a frame part 102, which comprises a hingeable section 171 which hingeable relative to the frame part 102 over a hinge axis H depicted in Fig. 7A. The hingeable section 171 is preferably but not necessarily connected to the frame part 102 via a living hinge.

A number of protrusions 130 such as teeth protrude from the hmgeable section 171, as shown in Fig. 7A. The protrusions 130 can extend through apertures in the knitted sheet 200, and as such the knitted sheet 200 can be spanned relative to the frame part 102. The hingeable section 171 with the protrusions thus forms a connection element for connecting a knitted sheet of fabric to. In general, whenever a connection element comprises multiple protrusions 130, the protrusion may all have the same length, or protrusions with different lengths may be provided.

Between the situations depicted in Figs. 7A and 7B, the hingeable section 171 has been hinged from a first position shown in Fig. 7A to a second position shown in Fig. 7B — via a hinging movement of the hingeable section 171 over the hinge axis H. Between the situations depicted in Figs. 7B and 7C, the hingeable section 171 has been hinged from the second position to a third position. When the hingeable section 171 is hingeable relative to the frame part 102, the hingeable section 171 may be hinged between a position in which it is convenient to connect the knitted sheet 200 to the hingeable section 171 — for example the first position of Fig. 7A — and a position in which the knitted sheet 200 is further secured relative to the frame part 102 and/or in which the knitted sheet 200 is spanned relative to the frame part 102 — for example in the third position of Fig. 7C.

Fig. 7D shows the frame part 102 with the hingeable section 171 in the third position, and shows as an example the living hinge 172 between the frame part 102 and the hingeable section 171.

In the example of Figs. 7A-7D, as best visible in Fig. 7D, the frame part 102 may comprise a reinforcement section 177 which is oriented at an angle relative to the frame part 102. In particular, in the assembled state depicted for example in Fig. 7D, the reinforcement section 177 is oriented in a direction generally facing away from the sheet 200, for example at a 45 degree angle. The reinforcement section 177 may increase stiffness of the frame part 102.

Figs. 8A-8C depict three examples of how registration members 130 can protrude through apertures 204 of a knitted sheet 200. Generally, any of these examples are generally applicable to any architectural element disclosed herein which uses one or more registration members.

As can be seen in each of the examples of Figs. 3A-3C, the apertures 204 in the knitted sheet 200 can be formed by a particular knitting pattern,

which is different from the knitting pattern of parts of the knitted sheet 200 adjacent to and/or surrounding the aperture 204.

Figs. 9A-9C show an example of an architectural element 100 comprising a knitted sheet 200 of fabric. The architectural element 100 is depicted without the frame for clarity and conciseness of the figure, but it will be appreciated that any frame disclosed herein may be comprised by the architectural element 100, wherein the knitted sheet 200 can be connected to the frame via any one or more connection elements disclosed herein, and spanned relative to the one or more connection elements.

Figs. 9A-9C further depict a lighting arrangement 400, in a side view, isometric top view, and an exploded view, as part of an example of an architectural element. As can be seen in figures 9A-9C, and as an option applicable to any other knitted sheet 200 disclosed herein, the knitted sheet comprises an aperture 209 which is positioned at a distance from edges of the knitted sheet of fabric. Possibly, but not necessarily, the aperture 209 is approximately in the centre of the knitted sheet 200. It will be understood that the knitted sheet of fabric 200 may conceivably comprise multiple apertures 209, with the same or a different size. Furthermore, although the aperture 209 depicted in Figs. 9A-9C is circular, more in general any aperture 209 may have any other shape.

The lighting arrangement 400 comprises a light fitting 406, which can be connected to, in particular suspended from, a light box 404. The light box 404 in turn can be connected to the ceiling or a wall of a building via connectors 402.

As can be seen in Figs. 9A-9C, the aperture 209 allows light to pass through the knitted sheet 200 without being obstructed by said knitted sheet 200. In case the aperture 209 is aligned with a sprinkler, the knitted sheet 200 can obstruct a flow of water less, and in case the aperture 209 is aligned with a smoke detector, the knitted sheet 200 will obstruct a flow of smoke less.

It will be appreciated that the aperture 209 in the knitted sheet 200 may additionally or alternatively provide a passage for other building elements, such as but not limited to sprinklers and smoke detectors.

When a knitted sheet 200 comprises an aperture 209, as a particular option, an aperture support 211 may be provided, which surrounds at least part of the aperture 209. Part of the knitted sheet may be connected to the aperture 209, in particular part of the knitted sheet 200 adjacent of the aperture 209. The connection between the knitted sheet 200 and the aperture support 211 may for example use glue, hooks, protrusions protruding through the knitted sheet, clamps, or any other means of connection. By virtue of the aperture support 211, the shape of the aperture 209 may be maintained and/or sagging of the knitted sheet 200 around the aperture 209 may be prevented or at least reduced.

Fig. 10A shows an example of a knitted sheet of fabric 200, which can be used in any architectural element disclosed herein. As a particular option, applicable to any knitted sheet 200 disclosed herein, the knitted sheet has one or more visible markings 206. Preferably, but not necessarily, the markings 206 are knitted into the knitted sheet 200. The visible markings 206 may thus be formed by a differently coloured section of the yarn forming the knitted sheet 200 and/or by a different stitching pattern used to form the visible marking 206.

In use, the one or more visible markings 206 may be used to properly align multiple architectural elements 100. As an example, Fig. 10B shows parts of four architectural elements 100 forming an architectural element assembly 1000. The architectural elements 100 are aligned with adjacent architectural elements 100 using visible markings 206 in the respective knitted sheets of the architectural elements 100.

Fig. 10C shows a detailed view of part of two adjacent architectural elements 100 which have been aligned using markings 206 of their respective knitted sheets. As a preferred option, but not necessarily, the markings 206 are positioned at or near an edge of the knitted sheet 200. This in use allows the markings 206 to be positioned at the sides of the architectural element 100 — z.e. not in a front-facing part 210 of the knitted sheet 200. As such, in normal use, for example when the architectural element 100 is used as a ceiling panel or wall panel, the markings 206 are not visible.

It will be appreciated that knitted sheets 200 are envisioned comprising none, one, or any other number of visible markings 206. One or more visible markings 206 may be provided along one, more, or all edges of the knitted sheet 200.

Figs. 11A-11D show further examples of knitted sheets 200, or at least parts thereof. Each of the knitted sheets 200 is provided with one or more features which allow convenient connection of the knitted sheet 200 with a frame, in particular with a connection element of the frame, to form at least part of an architectural element.

In the example of Fig. 11A, the knitted sheet 200 is shaped such that an edge 291 is folded over the rest of the sheet. Thus, a fold-over section 294 is comprised by the sheet 200. This allows the sheet 200 to be spanned over a frame, wherein the frame will be position between the fold-over section 294 and the rest of the sheet 200 — alike a mattress cover. In use, the view of

Fig. 11A may be a rear view, which may typically be out of sight and facing a wall or ceiling. An edge 291 of the sheet may be elastically stretchable, for example by virtue of elasticity of the yarn, the knitting pattern of the yarn, and/or an additional elastic member connected along at least parts of the edge 291 of the sheet.

Another option depicted in Fig. 11A, which can be implemented to any knitted sheet disclosed herein independent of the fold-over section 294, is that the knitted sheet 200 comprises one or more locally thin sections 292.

These locally thin sections 292 are characterised by having a smaller thickness than surrounding parts of the sheet 200. It will be appreciated that relative to the locally thin section 292, the surroundings of the locally thin section can be regarded as a locally thickened section 295. The locally thin sections 292 may for example provide for different light transmittivity compared to their surroundings. Another example of a locally thin section 292 1s depicted in Fig. 11C. It will be understood that a locally thin section can be of any shape and size.

In general, for any knitted sheet 200 disclosed herein, light transmittivity may be locally adjusted by using a different knitting pattern — for example a less dense pattern to increase transmittivity — and/or by using a different type of yarn. For example, by using a thinner yarn and/or an at least partially translucent yarn, transmittivity may be increased.

Fig. 11B shows part of another example of a knitted sheet 200. As a particular option, the knitted sheet 200 comprises one or more pockets 293, which are formed while knitting the sheet 200. When the knitted sheet 200 is used to form part of an architectural element, at least part of one or more connection elements of the frame of the architectural element may be inserted into one or more of the pockets 293. Preferably, but not necessarily, a pocket 293 is positioned near an edge of the sheet 200. Additionally or alternatively, an opening into the pocket 293 faces away from the edge of the sheet 200.

Fig. 11C shows part of yet another example of a knitted sheet 200, here as an option comprising a plurality of loops 296 which are formed by the knitted sheet 200 itself, knitted into the knitted sheet 200, woven into the knitted sheet 200, or otherwise connected to the knitted sheet 200. The loops 296 can be connected to a connection element of a frame of an architectural element, for example by hooking the loops 296 behind one or more connection elements or wrapping the loops 296 around one or more connection elements.

Fig. 11D shows another example of a loop 298, which contrary to the loops 296 of Fig. 11C is positioned at a distance of the edges of the sheet 200. In Fig. 11C, the loops 296 are positioned at the edge of the sheet 200, and extend beyond the edge of the sheets. In general, a loop 298 can be connected to a connection element of a frame of an architectural element.

A loop, such as the loops shown in Fig. 11C and 11D, may be formed by yarn — such as yarn forming the knitted sheet or another length of yarn.

Alternatively, the loop may be formed from a material with a higher stiffness than the yarn forming the knitted sheet, such as a wire. In particular, the loop may be plastically deformable into a desired shape.

A loop may as a particular option be formed by a yarn or wire positioned in tunnels 297 formed by the knitted sheet. Fig. 11D shows the loop 298 entering and exiting an opening 299 of a tunnel 291.As another option, not depicted in the figures, a loop may exit a first tunnel, and subsequently enter a further tunnel of the knitted sheet.

Any knitted sheet disclosed herein may have one or more tunnels formed by the knitted sheet itself. Instead or next to having one or more wires running through the tunnels, one or more connection elements may be ran through the tunnels. The connection elements may for example be stiff poles forming at least part of a frame of an architectural element, thereby adding stiffness to the knitted sheet. Additionally or alternatively, one or more poles may extend into one or more pockets formed in the knitted sheet. One or more poles may be used to give a particular shape to the spanned knitted sheet, in particular a three-dimensional shape. A pole can run along an edge of the knitted sheet, or over the sheet from one edge to another, or even from any arbitrary position to another arbitrary on the sheet.

It will be appreciated that any of the options discussed in conjunction with Figs. 11A-D, such as the locally thin sections, fold-over section, pockets, tunnels and loops may be readily applied to any of the knitted sheets disclosed herein and to any of the architectural elements disclosed herein.

In general, at least one of the one or more tunnels extends or is oriented from one side of the knitted sheet to another side of the knitted sheet.

It will be understood that any tunnel may only span part of the distance between the one side of the knitted sheet to the another side of the knitted sheet.

Fig. 12A shows yet another example — in a very schematic manner — of part of an architectural element 100. In this example, as an option applicable also to any architectural element 100 disclosed herein, the knitted sheet 200 is connected to frame part 102 via a zipper connection, also referred to as a clasp locker connection. To form the zipper connection, a first set of teeth 148 is connected to the knitted sheet 200 and the frame part 102 comprises a second set of teeth 147. Fig. 12A shows the rows of teeth in an interlocked state. A slider (not shown) may be comprised by the architectural element 100, which slider is arranged to slide over the rows of teeth to interlock the rows of teeth, thereby forming a zip connection between the knitted sheet and the frame.

In general, one or more sides of the knitted sheet 200 may be provided with one or more rows of teeth. As a particular example, essentially the entire circumference of the knitted sheet 200 may be provided with the row teeth such that the zipper connection can be formed all around the knitted sheet.

In Fig. 12B, in a schematic side view, indicated that the rows of teeth 147, 148 may in use be positioned on the side of the frame 102.

Alternatively, the rows of teeth 147, 148 may even be positioned at the rear of the frame 102. In general, it may be preferred that the rows of teeth 147. 148 are not visible when looking at the front side F of the architectural element 100.

Even more in general, for any connection element disclosed herein, it may be preferred that the connection element is not visible when looking at the front side F of the architectural element 100. As such, any connection element disclosed herein may be positioned along a side or at the back of the frame 102.

Figs. 13A and 13B respectively show a front side and a rear side of another example of an architectural element 100. Figs. 13A and 13B show, as an option applicable to any other architectural element 100 disclosed herein, that at least part of the frame 102 can define a curved plane at a front side of the frame. When the knitted sheet 200 is spanned over at least part of the curved plane, the knitted sheet 200 can be curved corresponding to the curved plane defined by the frame 102. Any connection elements 130 disclosed herein may be used to connect the knitted sheet 200 to the frame, allowing the knitted sheet 200 to be spanned relative to the frame 102.

In the example of Figs. 13A and 13B — again as an option applicable to any other architectural element 100 disclosed herein - the frame comprises a perimeter section 102, and one or more shaping frame parts 149 which together define the curved plane at the front side of the frame. The one or more shaping frame parts 149 may optionally span from one side of the perimeter section 102 to another side of the perimeter section 102, as depicted in Fig. 13B. The curved plane may in general be a single continuous surface, or multiple separate surfaces. It will further be understood that any frame part disclosed herein may be at least partially straight and/or at least partially curved. The shaping frame parts allow a three-dimensional shape to be achieved for the knitted sheet.

It will be appreciated that whenever in the figures a photo is shown, the photo merely shows a particular example of how the present disclosure may be embodied. These examples should not be construed as limiting to the scope of the present disclosure. Optional features disclosed in a photo may be readily applied in a broader context, also for other architectural elements disclosed herein.

For any connection element disclosed herein, it will be appreciated that the connection element may be comprised by a single frame part. A connection element may in general, and for any embodiment of the connection element disclosed herein, form one or more connections with the knitted sheet at one or more locations on the knitted sheet, in any combination thereof.

The wording connection element should not be construed as necessarily singular — i.e. any connection element can be formed by multiple bodies.

Claims

Conclusions

1. Architectural element, such as a wall panel or a ceiling panel, the architectural element comprising: - a frame, comprising at least a first attachment element for attaching a knitted cloth thereto; and - a knitted cloth; wherein the knitted cloth is attached to the frame via the first attachment element and wherein the knitted cloth is tensioned relative to the first attachment element.

2. Architectural element according to claim 1, wherein the knitted fabric comprises one or more locally thickened parts, in particular at a distance from one or more sides of the knitted fabric.

3. An architectural element as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the frame further comprises a second connecting element for connecting the knitted fabric thereto, the second connecting element being positioned at an angle relative to the first connecting element, and wherein the knitted fabric is connected to the frame via the second connecting element and the knitted fabric is tensioned relative to the second connecting element.

4. An architectural element according to any preceding claim, wherein the frame further comprises a third connecting element for connecting the knitted fabric thereto, the third connecting element being positioned substantially parallel to the first connecting element, and wherein the knitted fabric is connected to the frame via the third connecting element and the knitted fabric is tensioned relative to the third connecting element.

5. Architectural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connecting element comprises a set of registration members, which are spaced apart, and wherein the registration members extend through the knitted fabric.

6. An architectural element as claimed in claim 5, wherein a set of openings is knitted into the knitted fabric, and wherein an intermediate distance between the openings is increased or decreased to correspond to the distance between the registration parts.

7. Architectural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the knitted fabric comprises a locally thickened part formed by the knitted fabric itself, in particular by the strand or strands of yarn forming the knitted fabric, and the locally thickened part is used to form the connection with the first connecting element.

8. Architectural element according to claim 7, wherein the locally thickened part has a thickness which is two times or more of the thickness of an adjacent part of the knitted fabric adjacent to the locally thickened part, preferably more than three or four times or more.

9. Architectural element according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the first connecting element comprises a receiving space with an opening into the receiving space, the locally thickened part is positioned at least partly in the receiving space of the first connecting element, and the opening has a height of less than the thickness of the locally thickened part into the receiving space.

10. Architectural element according to claim 9, wherein the height of the opening in the reception area can be resiliently increased.

11. An architectural element as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric includes one or more openings therethrough spaced from sides of the knitted fabric.

12. The architectural element of claim 11 further comprising an opening support connected to at least a portion of the knitted fabric, the opening support surrounding at least one of the openings through the knitted fabric.

13. Architectural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the knitted fabric is at least partially wrapped around a portion of the frame.

14. Architectural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the knitted fabric has one or more markings knitted into it, on or near at least one side of the knitted fabric, for example visible and/or tactile markings.

15. Architectural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein one or more tunnels are formed through the knitted fabric, and the first connecting element extends through at least one of the one or more tunnels.

16. Architectural element according to claim 15, wherein at least one of the one or more tunnels runs along a side of the knitted fabric.

17. Architectural element according to claim 15 or 16, wherein at least one of the one or more tunnels extends from one side of the knitted fabric to another side of the knitted fabric.

18. Architectural element according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the first connecting element is curved, and at least part of the knitted fabric is shaped according to the curvature of the first connecting element.

19. An architectural element as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein at least part of the frame defines a curved surface on a front side of the frame, and the knitted fabric is stretched over at least part of the curved surface.

20. Architectural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first connecting element comprises one or more magnets, and the knitted fabric is clamped between one or more ferromagnetic elements and the one or more magnets of the first connecting element.

21. Architectural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the knitted fabric comprises one or more pockets knitted into the fabric, and the first connecting element extends at least partially into at least one of the one or more pockets.

22. An architectural element according to any preceding claim, wherein one or more loops are connected or comprised by the knitted fabric, and the first connecting element extends into at least one of the one or more loops.

23. An architectural element as claimed in claim 22, wherein at least one loop is positioned on or near a side of the knitted fabric.

24. Architectural element according to claim 22 or 23, wherein at least one loop is positioned at a distance from the sides of the knitted fabric.

25. An architectural element according to any preceding claim, wherein a first row of teeth is connected to the knitted fabric, a second row of teeth is provided by the first connecting element, the architectural element further comprising a slider adapted to slide over the rows of teeth to engage the rows of teeth, thereby forming a zipper connection between the knitted fabric and the frame.

26. Architectural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein a folded portion of the knitted fabric is folded back onto the fabric, and at least part of the frame is positioned between the fabric and the folded portion, which part of the frame forms the first connecting element.

27. Architectural element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the knitted fabric is formed by a single continuous strand of yarn.

28. An architectural element according to any preceding claim, wherein the knitted fabric is a first knitted fabric, the architectural element further comprising a second knitted fabric, the second knitted fabric being connected to the frame via the first connecting element and wherein the second knitted fabric is tensioned relative to the first connecting element, in particular away from the first knitted fabric.

29. Architectural element assembly, comprising: - a first architectural element according to claim 14, or any of claims 15-28 insofar as dependent on claim 14;

- a second architectural element according to claim 14, or any of claims 15 to 28 as dependent on claim 14; wherein a first marking of the first architectural element is aligned with a second marking of the second architectural element.