US20230243150A1

US20230243150A1 - Partition wall system, method for mounting a partition wall system

Info

Publication number: US20230243150A1
Application number: US17/493,361
Authority: US
Inventors: Joris JONKER; Sanneke HORSTMAN-PEFFER; Carlos Manuel Martinez Florez; Geoffrey Robert SALVATORE; Niti Dilip Dattani
Original assignee: Maars Holding BV; M Arthur Gensler Jr and Associates Inc
Current assignee: Maars Holding BV; M Arthur Gensler Jr and Associates Inc
Priority date: 2019-04-05
Filing date: 2020-04-03
Publication date: 2023-08-03
Also published as: CN114127375A; EP3947842A1; CA3135950A1; WO2020204717A1; NL2022880B1

Abstract

Partition wall system comprising at least two posts configured to be erected uprightly; at least one profiles that are removable connectable to the posts in a horizontal way; wherein the horizontal profile, at their respective ends, is provided with a connection element that is arranged for removable connection to a corresponding connection element in the post, such that cooperation of the corresponding connection elements provides for a removable connection.

Description

The invention relates to a partition wall system.
Partition walls are known and are often used in interior constructions, such as for example in office buildings, utility buildings such as airports or hospitals, industrial buildings, public institutions, schools, laboratories, hotels etc. Such walls are designed and used as permanent constructions, and once installed form a permanent part of the interior of the building. Such walls usually comprise horizontal posts fixedly mounted to the floor and the ceiling, with a wall element fixed in between. Between adjacent wall elements vertical posts are provided.
Since these structures have a permanent character, re-organizing the space in the building requires renovation works for removing the permanent walls and installing new walls. The renovation works require professional builders to be hired as the users of the building typically do not have the skills or tools for removing the walls and installing new walls. After removal the walls can often not be re-used. This not only largely impairs the flexibility for the users of the building, but also for the architect designing the interior construction. Screens are known to temporary shield part of a space in the building, however, such screens do not have the appearance nor functionality of a wall. There is thus a need for a more flexible wall system.
Thereto, the invention provides for a partition wall system according to claim 1.
By providing a system with at least two uprightly erected posts with at least one horizontal profile removable connectable in between, a flexible and modular system can be provided that can be installed in an interior of a building. The uprightly erected posts, are, once installed, approximately vertically oriented, and can be considered as vertical posts for the conciseness of the description. The horizontal profile can be connectable to the vertical posts without using any tools or instruments, for example by using a simple click-connection or pen-hole connection. As such, no workmen are required for erecting the partition wall system nor are any tools or instruments required for connecting the horizontal profile to the vertical post. This not only may reduce costs, but also may increase flexibility and versatility for the users.
The wall system may comprise a further profile that can be horizontally connected to the vertical posts. The at least two horizontal profiles are connected one above the other, such that there is a gap between the at least two horizontal profiles. The horizontal profile can be connectable to the vertical posts without using any tools or instruments, for example by using a simple click-connection or pen-hole connection. As such, no workmen are required for erecting the partition wall system nor are any tools or instruments required for connection the further profile to the vertical post. Further, a panel may be provided that is mountable to and between the at least two horizontal profiles connected one above the other. As such, the gap between the at least two horizontal profiles can be filled. By positioning a number of panels above each other, a closed wall can be obtained. The panel can be connectable to the horizontal profiles without using any tools or instruments, for example using a simple click-connection, a pen-hole connection or a magnetic connection. As such, no workmen are required for erecting the partition wall system nor are any tools or instruments required for mounting the panel to and between the at least two horizontal profiles connected one above the other.
The vertical posts are advantageously erected between a floor and a ceiling in a building interior. The vertical post is at least releasable fixated to the floor, as to provide a firm connection to the floor at one end, and to allow flexibility and modularity at the other end by providing the fixation to the floor in a releasable manner. The post can thereto be provided with an adjustable foot, which foot, can be releasable fixatable to the floor. Advantageously, the fixation to the ceiling can be done in a similar fashion, as the fixation to the floor, for example by using the same or similar foot that can be releasable fixated to the ceiling. In another aspect of the wall system, the vertical post can be fixated to the floor, but does not extend up to the ceiling and, thus, has a free upper end. Advantageously, the post may have a hollow cross-section. As such, the post may be relatively easily manufactured from metal, preferably from steel, preferably manufactured by rolling. Also, the adjustable foot can be a separate element that can be inserted to a hollow end of the post, and as such can be connected to the post and providing for the fixation of the post to the floor and/or ceiling. Thus, the post and/or the foot can be manufactured separately allowing a flexibility in manufacturing, storage and installation.
Advantageously, two or more profiles can be connected between adjacent vertical posts. Between horizontal posts arranged above each other, a panel can be mounted. By providing multiple panels above each other, the space between the adjacent vertical posts can be closed and a closed wall can be obtained. However, the user and/or architect can choose to close one or more gaps between the respective horizontal posts, and as such have a large flexibility how to fill the partition wall system with panels.
Furthermore, since the panel is removable engageable to the horizontal profiles, a panel can easily be exchanged, removed or replaced by another panel. Advantageously, the panel comprises a frame with a panel body. The panel body can be of any kind of material such as metal, textile, plastic, composite, fabric, wood, etc. Alternatively and/or additionally, the panel and/or the panel body can have various shapes and/or appearances. For example, the panel and/or the panel body can be a cabinet, or a shelve, or a green panel comprising plants, etc. The panel and/or the panel body may comprise a display, a touch screen or a tv-screen etc. Many variants of the panel and/or the panel body are possible.
Advantageously, the horizontal profile is provided with at least one protruding flange, wherein the flange is arranged for engaging with the panel, in particular with a lower edge or an upper edge of the panel. As such, the panel can easily be engaged to the profiles and may be supported, at a lower end, by the protruding flange.
In an example, the horizontal profile has a hollow cross-section, advantageously a cross-shaped cross-section. By providing such a cross-shaped cross-section, there are two protruding flanges or arms, extending horizontally, and two protruding ribs, extending vertically. As such, the cross-shaped cross-section allows panels to be engaged at both sides of the horizontal profile, namely one panel can be engaged to the profile at one side thereof and another panel can be engaged to the profile at the opposite side thereof. Further, the protruding flanges may provide support to the panel, whereas the ribs may facilitate mounting of the panel to the profile, the panel may abut against the rib. Advantageously, the profile has a cross-section that is symmetrical with respect to a first symmetry axis and/or is symmetrical with respect to a second symmetry axis. As such, manufacturing and/or installation of the profile can be more simple, as, due to the symmetry, it may be connected to the vertical posts either way. When the profile is of a hollow construction, it may be for example manufactured by steel rolling. It is understood that other materials and/or manufacturing may be possible, e.g. metallic or composite extrusion, or plate welding etc.
The vertical post and the horizontal profile may have the same cross-section, for example the same hollow cross-shaped cross-section. Thus, the arms of the cross-shaped cross-section of the profile, in use, extending horizontally, may extend for the post, in use, vertically. Providing the posts and the profiles with the same cross-section, manufacturing and storage of the posts and profiles can be more simple and more cost effective. In fact, then a longitudinally extending shape may be manufactured, advantageously by steel rolling, which then may be cut to a designated length for the post or the profile.
Advantageously, the panel is provided with engagement elements for engaging to the horizontal profile. The engagement elements may provide for cooperation of the panel with the horizontal profile. For example, the engagement element may comprise a magnetic element. The engagement element can be provided in a lower edge and/or an upper edge of the panel, and may also be embodied differently, e.g. as a protrusion engaging in a groove or a pen engaging in a slot etc. The engagement element may engage with the profile, for example with a vertical rib of the profile to which the upper and/or lower edge of the panel may abut. The profile may be provided with corresponding magnetic elements, or may be manufactured from a magnetisable material, such as a metallic material, preferably steel. Alternatively, the profile is provided with the engagement elements for engaging with the panel when is mounted to the profile. By providing a magnetic element as engagement element, engagement of the panel with the profile is possible in a simple and reliable manner without the use of any tools. Such tool-less engagement is beneficial for assembly by the user.
The panel may comprise a frame and a panel body. The frame may comprise the upper edge and the lower edge, and may, additionally, also comprise side edges. The panel body advantageously is comprised inside of the frame and may have various variants, such as a wooden panel body, or a white board panel body, or a display panel body, or a tv-screen panel body etc. By providing the panel also with side edges, the side edges may engage to the vertical posts when mounting the panel to the horizontal profiles. The side edges may also be provided with engagement elements, advantageously magnetic engagement elements, or may be provided with different engagement elements as the upper edge and the lower edge. When, advantageously, the posts and the profiles have the same cross-sectional shape, the panel may engage to the posts in the same or similar manner as it engages to the profiles. This is beneficial for the simplicity of assembly by a single person without the use of any tools or instruments. Additionally, providing a panel comprising a frame having an upper edge, a lower edge and side edges improves the visual appearance of the panel mounted to the posts and profiles.
The profile is removable connectable to the posts. Thereto, the profile is provided with a connection element at both ends of the profile. The post as well is provided with a corresponding connection element, such that cooperation of the corresponding connection elements provides for removable connection of the profile to the post. Such a connection can be a click-connection or a pin-hole connection or a click-finger-connection, or a pin-slit connection etc. Many variants are possible. The connection element and the corresponding connection element are configured to establish a connection in a tool-less manner, i.e. without the use of any tools or instruments, such as a screwdriver or a key, e.g. a hex key. This provides for simple, easy and/or reliable assembly, without the need for a technician.
Advantageously, the connection element of the profile comprises a plug insertable into an end of the profile. The plug may be a composite element that can be inserted into a hollow end of the profile. The corresponding connection element in the post may comprise a pen engageable to the plug. In the post, a bore, e.g. a through-bore, or, when the post is hollow aligned openings in opposite sides of the post may be provided for receiving the pen. The pen may thus be inserted through the bore, or openings, in the post and into the plug to provide for a connection between the profile and the post. By providing a plug that is insertable into an open end of the profile, and a pen connectable to the post, a simple, reliable, and tool-less way of connecting the profile to the post can be obtained that can also be done by non-skilled layman. The pen can be connectable into an opening of the post, or the pen can be integrated to the post itself. By providing a pen to the post, it may become easier to engage the plug, inserted in an end of the profile, to the pen. For example, the profile with the plug can approach the pen from above and can be lowered until the plug engages the pen. The opening in the post to which the pen can be mounted may be configured as a slotted opening, or a key-hole shaped opening, or a V-shaped opening or any other shape in which the pen can be receivable.
The pen itself may for example comprise two parts that are connectable to each other via a screw connection. The two parts may for example have the same or similar ends, such as a knob acting as a stop to prevent the pen from slipping through the bore of the post. The two parts may thus be inserted into the bore, one from each end of the bore, and may, via the screw connection be connected to each other to form the pen inserted in the post. The knobs at each end of the pen may serve as a protrusion over which the plug can be mounted, as such the plug can be hooked to the pen and a firm, though releasable, connection can be obtained. Alternatively, the pen may be a single-part piece, or may be integrated to the post.
Advantageously, the plug is provided with a receiving slot in which the pen is receivable. The receiving slot is preferably provided in a transverse wall of the plug, preferably in a transverse wall of the plug that is, when inserted in the profile, facing an outside. The receiving slot may be V-shaped or key-hole shaped or otherwise shaped such that it may receive the pen. Advantageously, the receiving slot is shaped as to guide the pen towards a closed end of the slot, such a shape may be a V-shape or a key-hole shape. As such, the receiving slot may also provide a ‘search′-function when approaching the pen from above. This may make it easier to engage the plug of the profile with the pen of the post.
The transverse wall comprising the receiving slot may be an outer wall of the plug, or may be provided in a somewhat retracted position with respect to an outer contour of the plug, such that, when inserted in the profile, the transverse wall is positioned somewhat retracted inside of the profile. By positioning the transverse wall retracted with respect to an outer contour of the plug, part of the pen may be enclosed by the plug and profile in connected condition. As such, the profile may engage relatively close to the post which enhances a visual smooth appearance.
Advantageously, a transverse wall of the plug, that is, after insertion facing the outside, is somewhat inclined with respect to a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the profile about an inclination angle. The transverse wall may have an inclination of about 1 to about 10 degrees, preferably about 5 degrees. The inclined transverse wall advantageously comprises the receiving slot for receiving the pen of the post. By providing an inclination to the transverse wall, the profile can be tightly fitted to the pen and the post when moving the opening over the end of the pen. As such, a tight fitting of the profile to the post can be obtained. Also, due to the inclination of the transverse wall, upon mounting of the horizontal profile to the post, the transverse wall may provide for some searching of the connection element with respect to the post. So, a reliable positioning of the connection element with respect to the post can be obtained. By providing the inclination to the transverse wall, the plug may be pulled towards the post during engagement of the pen with the post. Due to this ‘pulling’, the plug and profile can come relatively close to the post, as well as that the engagement between the pen and the plug can be relatively firm. Due to the inclination of the transverse wall, the engagement between the pen and the plug, when in connected condition, may be under tension, and as such be relatively firm. This may allow a reliable and stable connection.
The transverse wall further is provided with an opening, being the receiving slot, that may fit around the knob or end of the plug. The opening or receiving slot is advantageously a slit or a V-shaped opening in which the pen, in particular an end of the pen may hook. When mounting the profile to the post, the plug of the profile engages with the pen inserted through the post. The profile, and thus the plug, will approach the pen from above in a downward movement. Upon engagement of the pen in the opening or slit of the transverse wall of the plug, and with further downward movement of the plug, the plug is moved over the pen until it abuts to the end of the opening. When the transverse wall is slightly inclined, upon further downward movement of the plug, the pen pulls the plug towards the post, and as such a rather tight, stable and reliable connection can be obtained. Also, when the opening in the transverse wall is V-shaped it has a wider receiving width at the bottom of the opening than the width at the top end of the opening, providing for a tight clamping or confinement of the plug to the transverse wall. Moreover, the wider bottom opening allows for some ‘searching’ of the plug to find the pen, allowing for easy assembly by a layman user. Also, the inclination of the transverse wall, in that an underside of the transverse wall extends more outwardly with respect to the plug than an upper side of the transverse wall, facilitates searching of the post. The bottom side of the transverse wall may contact the post first when mounting the profile to the post. Due to the inclination of the transverse wall, then a stable path of the plug towards the pen and post can be followed, providing for a reliable and relatively easy connection.
Also, a locking element can be provided for securing the panel to the horizontal profile The locking element can be provided on the panel and/or on the profile. The locking element may be provided as a clip that is insertable to the plug of the connection element to an end of the profile. The plug may thereto be provided with a chamber for receiving the locking element, and the profile may be provided with a hole through which the clip can be inserted into the chamber of the plug. The clip may be arranged to be inserted into the chamber of the plug manually and tool-less. As such, securing the panel to the horizontal profile can be done by a layman without any tools or instruments. In an example, the clip can be provided with at least one transversely extending finger that is configured to engage with the panel. In another example, two transversely extending fingers can be provided, advantageously one finger per side of the locking clip as to engage with one panel at each side of the horizontal profile. The fingers can for example be click-fingers that engage via a click connection to the panel. As such, the panel is not only connected to the profile, via the engagement elements, but also secured to the profile, via the locking elements. This is advantageous for the user, as the wall system is intended for use in buildings where persons are working or residing, the secure connection of the panel to the profiles prevents accidental loosening of a panel and thus improves the safe and secure use of the wall system.
Advantageously, the locking clip comprises an upper part that is insertable to the profile connection element and the at least one downwardly extending finger at a lower part extends downwardly from the upper part and is provided with the transverse finger or click-finger at a lower free end thereof. This provides for a simple clip configuration that is easy insertable into the profile connection element. This also provides for a simple clip configuration that is easy and tool-less to remove when the wall-system is dismounted. The locking clip may further comprise at least one leg arranged for cooperation with the profile connection element such that the clip is removable connectable to the profile connection element. The leg may extend downwardly from the upper part as well and may be provided with a groove that may click-fit with a protrusion of the profile connection element. As such, the upper part is in fact a bridge part or a base part from which the at least one leg and the at least one finger are downwardly extending. Advantageously, the downwardly extending leg is arranged more outwardly with respect to the downwardly extending finger, seen in a longitudinal direction of the profile connection element, preferably both facing the side to which a panel may be connected. The clip may also be configured symmetrically with respect to a symmetry plane coinciding with the longitudinal axis of the profile connection element. Then, two legs may be downwardly extending from the upper part that are arranged for removable connection with the profile connection element. Also, two fingers may be downwardly extending from the upper part, which fingers are provided with the transverse finger or click-finger for securing to the panel. When providing such a symmetrical locking clip, it is possible to secure two panels engaged to the same horizontal profile, one panel at each side of the profile, at the same time in the same manner. This may provide for compact installation and mounting of the panels to the profile. In another embodiment, the locking clip may be embodied as a box-shaped insert of which two downwardly extending fingers may be arranged as two opposite sides of the box-shaped insert from which click fingers for engaging with the panel may transversely extend. Two downwardly extending legs may be provided as the other two opposite sides of the box-shaped insert from which flanges may transversely extend for cooperation with the profile.
By providing a wall system in which all components are removable or releasable connectable to each other, as well as that the vertically erected posts are releasable fixatable to, at least, the floor, a versatile, flexible and modular system can be provided. The wall system can easily be extended with additional posts, profiles and panels. Adaptation of the wall system does not require hiring builders or the use of tools. Also, a versatile configuration of the wall system is possible by positioning the posts in a configuration allowing an angular configuration of the wall system. Alternatively and/or additionally, the panel can be of a straight or curved design allowing many configurations of the wall system.
In another aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method for mounting such a partition wall system. In a further aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a method for customizing such a partition wall system by removing and/or replacing a panel. In still another aspect, there is provided a method for repositioning the partition wall system, by also releasing the fixation of the posts and fixating the posts to, at least the floor, at another location.
Further advantageous embodiments are represented in the subclaims.
These and other aspects will be further elucidated with reference to the drawing comprising figures of exemplary embodiments. Corresponding elements are designated with corresponding reference signs. In the drawing shows:

FIG. 1 a schematic exploded view of a partition wall system;

FIG. 2 a schematic exploded view of a connection of a horizontal profile and a vertical post;

FIG. 3 a schematic cross-sectional view of a panel engaged to a horizontal profile;

FIG. 4 a schematic exploded view of an adjustable foot for a vertical post;

FIG. 5 a schematic perspective bottom view of a connection element for a profile;

FIG. 6 a schematic perspective side view of a panel engaged to a horizontal profile with connection plug and locking element;

FIG. 7 a schematic perspective bottom view of a locking element and a horizontal profile with connection plug;

FIG. 8 a schematic cross-sectional view of a locking element engaged to the connection plug of a horizontal profile.

FIG. 9 a schematic perspective view of an other embodiment of a locking element.

It is to be noted that the figures are given by way of exemplary examples and are not limiting to the disclosure.
FIG. 1 gives a schematic exploded view representation of a partition wall system 1. The partition wall system 1 comprises at least two posts 2 that can be erected uprightly. Further, the partition wall system 1 comprises at least one profile 3, that is removable connectable to two adjacent vertical posts 2. In the example of FIG. 1 , there are three horizontal profiles 3 between the left and middle vertical posts 2 and there are two horizontal profiles 3 between the right and middle vertical posts 2.More or less horizontal profiles can be provided. The horizontal profiles 3 are connected to the posts 2 one above the other, such that there is a gap 4 between them. Between an upper and a lower profile 3, a panel 5 can be provided. The panel 5 may engage the lower profile 3 as well as the upper profile 3 and thus may fill the gap 4 between the respective profiles 3.
The posts 2, or so-called upright posts or vertical posts, can be erected between a floor 6 and a ceiling 7, or can be fixated to a floor 6 only. For fixating the post 2 to the floor 6 and/or the ceiling 7, a fixation element 8 is provided. The fixation element 8 can be an adjustable foot 8, comprising a post insert 9 and a foot base 10. FIG. 4 shows the fixation element 8 in exploded view. The post insert 9 has a cross-sectional shape corresponding to the cross-section of the post 2, at least to the cross-section of an upper end or a lower end of the post 2. In the post insert 9, a bore 11 is provided in which the foot base 10, in particular a threaded body 12 can be screwed. The bore 11 can be provided with a corresponding thread, or can be without thread. The bore 11 can be a through bore, as shown in FIG. 4 , or can be a bore having a closed end. By adjusting the foot base 10 with respect to the post insert 9, the height of the post 2 can be adjusted. The foot base 10 can be a plastic or metallic piece, the post insert 9 is advantageously of a plastic material, but may have a metallic threaded insert in the bore 11 for receiving the threaded body of the foot base 10. The foot base 10 further is provided with two slit openings 13. Screws may be inserted through these openings for fixating the foot base 10 to the floor 6 or ceiling 7. Alternatively, such screws may be omitted. Alternative embodiments of an adjustable foot are possible, e.g. a foot as insert in the vertical post can be adjustable by means of a pin-in-hole connection, or via a rack-and-pinion system or via a finger cooperating with a saw-tooth, etc.
The profiles 3 can be connected to the posts 2 by means of a connecting element 14, the post 2 is advantageously provided with a corresponding connection element 15. Various examples of the connection elements 14, 15 are possible. For example, the connection element 14 may be provided as a protrusion that fits in a cut-out connection element 15 of the post 2. Alternatively, the connection element 14 of the profile 3 may be a hook that can be hooked over or in a corresponding protrusion or opening of the post 2. Alternatively, the connection element 14 can be a pin with a head, a mushroom shaped element, that can be inserted into a key-hole shaped opening of the post 2, as shown in FIG. 2 . An advantage of the mentioned examples is that no tools or instruments are required to connect the profiles 3 to the posts 2. The opposite configurations may also be possible, for example, in that the post may be provided with a pin as connection element 15 that may fit into an opening of the profile 3. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the connection element 14 is schematically represented as well as the corresponding connection element 15 is also schematically represented. It may be evident that multiple connection elements are possible that allow for establishing a removable connection between the profile 3 and the post 2.
To align the connection elements 15 of the adjacent posts 2, the height of the posts 2 can be adjusted with the adjustable foot 8.
The profile 3 is advantageously of a hollow cross-section and may be made from metal, e.g. steel, it can thus be a steel rolled profile. The profile 3, as shown in the cross-section of FIG. 3 , has in this example a cross-shaped cross-section. The cross-shaped cross-section comprises two protruding flanges 16, 17 and two protruding ribs 18, 19. Alternative shapes, such as a T-shape or an L-shape are also possible. Advantageously, the cross-section of the profile 3 is symmetrical with respect to a first symmetry axis S1, in use a vertical axis, such that the protruding flanges 16, 17 are symmetrical. In a further embodiment, the profile 3 can be symmetrical with respect to a second symmetry axis S2, in use, a horizontal axis. As such, the profile 3 can be easy to handle as then, the orientation as to how connect the profile 3 to the post 2 can be relatively free. More advantageously, the post 2 is of the same shape and/or has the same cross-section, preferably the same hollow cross-section as the profile 3. This may make manufacturing of the posts 2 and profiles 3 more simple, and more cost effective, as the same shape can be used for the profile as well as for the post. For example, in FIG. 2 is schematically illustrated that the profile 3 and the post 2 have the same shape. When the post 2 and the profile 3 have the same shape, the above description regarding the cross-section of the profile 3 is equally applicable to the cross-section of the post 2.
The protruding flange 16, 17 may provide for a support for the panel 5 that can be engaged to the profile 3. More particular, the rib 18, 19 may provide for engagement of the panel 5 to the profile 3. The panel 5, in particular the upper edge 20 and/or lower edge 21 can be provided with engagement elements 22, 23. The engagement elements 22, 23 of the upper and lower edge 20, 21 can be the same, but may be different as well. For example, the engagement element 23 of the lower edge 21 can be a protrusion fitting in a groove of the flange 16, while the engagement element 22 of the upper edge 20 can be a pin or click-finger fitting in an opening of the rib 19. In another example, both engagement elements 22, 23 can be the same, for example click-fingers engaging in openings of the ribs 19, 18. Here, the engagement elements 22, 23 are embodied the same, namely as magnetic elements connected to the upper edge 20 and the lower edge 21 of the panel respectively. However, the magnetic elements can be connected to the ribs 18, 19 as well. The magnetic elements 22, 23 can be connected to the outside of the panel 5 and/or profile 3, or can be mounted inside of the panel 5 and/or profile 3.
Advantageously, the profile 3 is from a magnetisable material, such as steel. Alternatively and/or additionally, the upper edge 20 and/or the lower edge 21 of the panel 5 can be of a magnetisable material as well. In an embodiment, the panel 5 comprises a frame 51 and a panel body 52. The upper edge 20 and the lower edge 21 may provide the frame 51. The frame 51 may further comprise side edges as well. The panel body 51 may be integral to the frame 51, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 3 , but may be separate from the frame and connectable to the frame. For example, the panel body 52 can be made from textile, plants, fabric, composite or plastic material, wood etc., and/or may comprise shelves, a cabinet or a display etc. Many variants of the panel or panel body are possible.
By providing magnetic elements 22, 23 as engagement elements, the engagement of the panel 5 to the profiles 3 can be relatively simple. The panel 5 is first supported on the flange 16 of the lower profile 3, preferably in the corner between the flange 16 and the rib 18. Then, the panel 5 can be rotated towards the upper profile 3 until the upper edge 20 of the panel 5 engages the rib 19. Due to the magnetic force of the magnetic elements 22, 23 a firm connection can then be established. At the opposite side of the profiles 3, another panel 5 may be engaged to the profiles 3 as well, as schematically indicated in FIG. 3 .
The panel 5 may further be provided with side edges in a similar way as the upper edge 20 and the bottom edge 21. The side edges may then engage with arms of the posts 2 in a similar way as the upper and lower edges engage with the arms 18, 19 of the profile 3. In fact, when the profile and post have the same cross-section and the side edges of the panel are similar to the upper and lower edges, the section of the system shown in FIG. 3 , made in a vertical plane, parallel to a post, is equally applicable to a possible section of the system in a horizontal plane through the panel, parallel to a horizontal profile.
The upper and lower edges of the panel may form the frame of the panel. If present, the frame may further comprise the side edges as well.
FIG. 5 shows a bottom view of an alternative connection element 14 for connection of the profile 3 to the post 2. Here, the connection element 14 comprises a plug 24 and the corresponding connection element 15 may comprise a pen 25. The plug 24 is insertable in a hollow end of the profile 3, and has a shape corresponding to the shape of the cross-section of the profile 3. Here, the shape of the plug 24 is approximately cross-shaped. The corresponding connection element 15 of the post 2, further comprises a through bore through which the pen 25 can extend. In case of a hollow shaped post, the through bore may be embodied as aligned openings in opposite sides of the post.
The pen 25 comprises here two pen parts 25 a, 25 b that are connectable to each other via screw thread. One pen part 25 a is provided with a threaded rod 26 while the other pen part 25 b is provided with a threaded bore in which the threaded rod can be screwn. Both pen parts 25 a, 25 b have the same or similar end shape, namely comprising a knob 27, a rejuvenation 28 and a rib 29 connected to a pen body 30. The rejuvenation 28 may have a smaller diameter than the pen diameter and may form a space between the knob 27 and the rib 29 Advantageously, the pen part 25 a, 25 b is integrally manufactured as a single piece part, e.g. from metal or composite.
The plug 24 can be provided with a transverse wall 31 in which an opening 32 is provided. Advantageously, the transverse wall 31 fits in the space between the knob 27 and the rib 29 provided by the rejuvenation 28. The opening 32 is preferably V-shaped such that finding the pen 25 can relatively easy, and upon moving the plug 24 downwardly over the pen 25, a tight connection can be obtained.
The posts 2 are in a beneficial manner provided with pre-bored bores 15 through with pen parts 25 a, 25 b can be inserted and can be connected to each other to form pen 25. As such, the pens 25 can be connected to the posts 2 at positions corresponding to a user’s preference. When the pens 25 are inserted to the posts 2, the profiles 3 can be mounted over the pens 25. In particular, the plugs 24 inserted in ends of the profiles 3 can be mounted over the pens 25. More in particular, the transverse wall 31 of the plug 24 can be mounted in the space formed by the rejuvenation 28.
The opening 32 in the transverse wall 31 may be key-hole shaped, as to tight-fitting the pen, in particular the rejuvenation 28, when in engaged position. Furthermore, the transverse wall 31 may have a slight inclination, an angle alpha between about 1 degree to about 10 degrees, preferably about 5 degrees, with respect to a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal direction L of the plug 24, as can be seen in FIG. 6 .
Also shown in FIG. 6 is the securing between the panel 5 and the profile 3. This securing is obtained via a locking element 33, comprising click-fingers 34 for securing the connection between the panel 5 and the profile 3. The mere connection between the panel 5 and the profile 3 has already been established by means of the engagement elements 23, e.g. magnetic elements 23. For the purpose of a safe, reliable and secured connection, the locking element 33 is provided. The click-finger 34 is engageable in an opening 35 of the panel 5. The panel 5 is here provided with an upper edge 20 and a panel body 51 that has a depth D that is larger than the depth d of the upper edge 20, mutatis mutandis for the lower edge 21 as well. As such, a shoulder 52 is obtained, in this shoulder 52 openings 35 can be provided in which the click-finger 34 of the locking element 33 can click. By providing the panel body 51 with a depth D larger than the depth d of the upper edge 20, or lower edge 21, when engaged a recess 36 is obtained between the profile 3 and the panel body 51. In this recess, typically a finger of a user may fit which finger of the user can hold the panel 5 for engaging it to the profile 3. Also, when disengaging the panel 5, the user can push the click-finger 34 inward and as such, may undo the securing of the click-finger 34 to the opening 35 allowing the panel 5 to be removed from the profile 3.
FIG. 7 shows the locking element 33 in a perspective view. The locking element 33 is provided as a locking clip insertable into the plug 24. The plug 24, as well as the profile 3 is thereto provided with an opening 37 through which the locking clip 33 can be inserted to be tightly clipped to the plug 24. The plug 24 is provided with protrusions 38 that fit in recesses 39 of the clip 33. The recesses 39 are provided on two outwardly and downwardly extending legs 41. The locking clip 33 comprises a bridge 42 or base part from which the legs 41 extend downwardly. When moving the legs 41 towards each other, the recesses 39 may become free from the protrusions 38 and the clip 33 can be removed from the plug 24. Advantageously, the legs 41 have at their lower ends a transverse arm 43 for cooperation with the profile 3. The user may easily engage with the transverse arms 43 to move the legs 41 towards each other for disengaging the locking element 33 from the plug 24 and the profile 3.
More inwardly with respect to the legs 41, two fingers 44 extend downwardly from the bridge 42 of the locking clip 33. The downwardly extending fingers 44 are here embodied as legs as well, and are arranged for engagement with the panel 5. The bridge or base part 42 is in fact the upper part from which the legs 44 extend. By the legs 41, 44 extending from the base bridge 42, some elasticity is provided allowing some movement of the legs with respect to each other. Such elasticity and/or movement may provide for engaging and disengaging from the locking clip 33 to the profile 3 and/or the panel 5. The legs 44 end in the transversely extending click-fingers 34. Due to the L-shape of the configuration of the leg 44 with the click-finger 34, flexibility is provided to the locking element 33, allowing downward movement of the click-finger 34, and thus, disengagement of the click-finger 34 from the opening 35 in the panel 5. The locking element 33 not only provides for a secure and reliable connection of the panel 5 to the profile 3, but it is also designed as to be removable itself. This allows a large flexibility and versatility to the user of the wall system. In the example of the locking clip 33 shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8 , the locking clip 33 is symmetrically with respect to a symmetry plane S coinciding with a longitudinal axis of the plug 24 of the profile connection element 14.
The locking clip 33 is in this example shown with two legs 44 and two fingers 41 downwardly extending from the bridge 42, allowing two panels 5, one panel 5 at each side of the profile 3, to be secured to the horizontal profile 3 at the same time. However, in another example, the locking clip 33 may comprise a single leg 44 and a single finger 41 for securing a panel 5 at one side of the horizontal profile 3 only. The locking clip 33 as shown in FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 may be manufactured by 3D-printing or by injection moulding in a composite plastic material.
FIG. 9 shows an other embodiment of the locking element 33 in a perspective view. The locking element 33 is provided as a locking insert insertable into the opening 37 of the horizontal profile 3 which is provided here as a rectangular opening 37. The insert 33 is here box-shaped and is engageable in a recess in the plug through the opening 37 in the profile 3. The insert 33 comprises a rectangular shaped base 42, from which legs 41 and fingers 44 extend downwardly as sides of the insert 33. The legs, fingers 41, 44 are here embodied as plate shaped sides of the box-shaped insert 33. Two legs 41 extend from two opposite edges of the base 42 and are arranged for cooperation with the profile 3. Two legs 44 extend from the other two opposite edges of the base 42 and are arranged for engagement with the panel 5. The legs 41 comprise click-fingers 60 and a transversely extending flange 43 at a lower end of the legs 41. The legs 41, 44 may thus form sides of the box-shaped insert 33. The click-finger 60 are arranged to engage an edge of the opening 37, as such securing the insert 33 to the horizontal profile 3. Advantageously, the legs 41 have at their lower ends a transverse arm 43. The user may easily engage with the transverse arms 43 to move the legs 41 towards each other for disengaging the locking insert 33 from the profile 3. The two other legs 44, oriented transversely with respect to the legs 41, have at their lower ends click-finger 34. The hook shape of the click finger 34 allows the click finger 34 to receive and secure the upper edge 20 or the lower edge 21 of the panel 5, depending on whether the insert 33 is inserted on a top side or a bottom side of the horizontal profile 3. The hook shape of the click-finger 34, especially an outward face 62 forming a slightly obtuse angle with an upper face 64, may allow some rotational movement to the panel 5, for example to allow the upper edge 20 of the panel 5 to be rotated towards the horizontal profile 3 when the lower edge 21 already engages the click finger 34. Also, the shape of the faces 62, 64 forming the click finger 34 may provide for engagement from a user that can push the click finger to engage or disengage from the panel 5. A click finger 34 engaged to the upper edge 20 of the panel 5 may however prevent the rotational movement allowed to the panel 5 by an other click finger 34 engaged to the lower edge 21 and vice versa. As such, the panel 5 can be fixedly engaged between multiple click fingers 34.
The locking clip 33 as shown in FIG. 9 may be provided from steel sheet, for example from spring steel providing some elasticity in the clip. In particular, the legs 41, 44 may have some elasticity with respect to the base 42 allowing engaging/disengaging to/from the respective recesses of the profile and/or the panel.
For example, a panel 5 may be provided with four recesses, one on each corner, to engage with four locking clips 33, two at a top side of the panel, and two at a bottom side of the panel. Alternatively, only a top side of the panel 5 may engage with the locking clips 33 to connect to the horizontal profile 3. A locking clip as shown in FIG. 7 may be used, or a locking clip 33 as shown in FIG. 9 may be used.
In an embodiment of the invention, the insert 33 may be used as the primary or only connection between the horizontal profile 3 and the panel 5. In other words, the insert 33 may function as engaging element 23, even though it remains possible to combine the insert 33 with, for example, magnetic elements 23.
As can be seen in the various examples, the partition wall system and all its components are configured as to be removable, disengageable, reusable, re-positionable etc. All connections provided between the components of the partition wall system are easy removable or loosenable without the need for any tools or instruments, by simply disconnecting or disengaging of connection elements or disengagement elements. Also, the locking element is easy insertable to the profile with a single hand and without tools. Thus the system is relatively simple and straightforward in use and can be easy modified, extended, adapted, customized etc. to the preferences of the user. For example, in one situation a straight wall is required in a certain colour, whereas for the next occasion the colour is to be different. It is then easy to remove the wall panels and to replace with panels in a different colour and/or colour pattern. In another example, in one occasion a floor to ceiling wall is required, whereas in the next occasion, a shoulder high partition is need. The upper panels can then simply be removed from the wall system. Lower panels may be replaced by cabinet- or shelve-shaped panels. In still another example, a wall system having posts not extending up to the ceiling, but ending e.g. a shoulder height can be sufficient while the wall system is configured in an L-configuration. At both sides of the posts and profiles panels can be mounted, giving versatility and flexibility at both sides of the wall system. Moreover, the elements of the partition wall system may be connected to each other without using any tools or instruments, namely tool-less. Connecting a profile to a post, or connecting a panel to a profile can be relatively simple and straightforward, A single person, in particular a single layman person, can in fact assembly the partition wall system on his own, without tools or instruments and without the need for assistance from other persons. Many variants and configurations are possible.
In another aspect, a partition wall system is provided comprising at least two vertical posts that can be erected uprightly and on each post a support element can be provided. A panel can be mounted to adjacent vertical posts supporting on the respective support elements. The support elements can be adjusted with respect to the posts, e.g. via a plug-in-hole connection, to ensure that the support elements in adjacent posts are at approximately the same height to receive the panel in an approximately horizontal way. Here, the panel may be provided with side edges comprising an engagement element for engagement to the corresponding vertical post. The engagement elements are, similar to the above described, preferably magnetic elements. The vertical post preferably has a hollow cross-section, more preferably a hollow cross-shaped cross-section. As such, a side edge of the panel can engage to an arm of the cross-shaped post. The support element may, relatively simple, be a pen mounted through a through bore of the post, or, in case of a hollow post, through aligned openings in opposite sides of the post. Other variants of a support element, e.g. a click-finger or a hook may be possible as well. In a further example, the support element may be a horizontal profile as described above.
For the purpose of clarity and a concise description, features are described herein as part of the same or separate embodiments, however, it will be appreciated that the scope of the claims and disclosure may include embodiments having combinations of all or some of the features described. It may be understood that the embodiments shown have the same or similar components, apart from where they are described as being different.
In the claims, any reference signs placed between parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The word ‘comprising’ does not exclude the presence of other features or steps than those listed in a claim. Furthermore, the words ‘a’ and ‘an’ shall not be construed as limited to ‘only one’, but instead are used to mean ‘at least one’, and do not exclude a plurality. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to an advantage. Many variants will be apparent to the person skilled in the art. All variants are understood to be comprised within the scope defined in the following claims.

Claims

1. A partition wall system comprising:

at least two posts configured to be erected uprightly;

at least one profiles that are removable connectable to the posts in a horizontal way;

wherein the horizontal profile, at their respective ends, is provided with a connection element that is arranged for removable connection to a corresponding connection element in the post, such that cooperation of the corresponding connection elements provides for a removable connection.

2. The partition wall system according to claim 1, further comprising a further horizontal profile removable connectable to the posts in a horizontal way, wherein the at least two horizontal profiles are connectable to the posts one above the other.

3. The partition wall system according to claim 2, further comprising a panel that is mountable to and between the at least two horizontal profiles.

4. The partition wall system according to claim 3, wherein the horizontal profiles are provided with at least one protruding flange that is arranged for engaging with a lower edge respectively an upper edge of the panel.

5. The Ppartition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the horizontal profile has a hollow cross-shaped cross-section.

6. The partition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the horizontal profile has a cross-section that is symmetrical with respect to a first symmetry axis and/or with respect to a second symmetry axis perpendicular to the first symmetry axis.

7. The partition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the panel is provided with engagement elements for engaging to the horizontal profile.

8. The partition wall system according to claim 7, wherein the engagement element is a magnetic element.

9. The partition wall system according to claim 7, wherein the panel is provided with an upper edge and a lower edge to which the engagement element is mounted.

10. The partition wall system according to claim 3, further comprising a further panel mounted to the profile at another side of the profile.

11. The partion wall system according to claim 1, wherein the panel comprises a frame and a panel body provided in the frame, preferably wherein the frame comprises an upper edge and a lower edge of the panel.

12. The partition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the horizontal profile is magnetisable, preferably made from a metallic material.

13. The partition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the posts and/or the profiles are manufactured of steel, preferably by means of steel rolling.

14. The partition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the corresponding connection element of the post is configured as a bore through the post, or, in case of a hollow post, aligned openings in opposite sides of the post.

15. The partition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the connection element of the horizontal profile comprises a plug insertable into an end of the profile.

16. The partition wall system according to claim 14, wherein the corresponding connection element of the post further comprises a pen engageable with the connection element of the profile, in particular with the plug.

17. The partition wall system according to claim 15, wherein the pen is engageable to a transverse wall of the plug.

18. The partition wall system according to claim 17, wherein the transverse wall of the plug is inclined with an inclination angle with respect to a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the plug.

19. The partition wall system according to claim 18, wherein the inclination angle is between about 1 degree to about 10 degrees.

20. The partition wall system according to claim 17, wherein the pen is engageable into a cut-out of the transverse wall, preferably a V-shaped cut-out.

21. The partition wall system according to claim 1, further comprising a locking element for securing the panel to the horizontal profile.

22. The partition wall system according to claim 21, wherein the locking element is provided as a locking clip comprising an upper part that is insertable to the profile connection element and at least one transversely extending finger at a lower part thereof, wherein the transversely extending finger is configured to engage with the panel for securing the panel to the profile.

23. The partition wall system according to claim 22, wherein the locking clip further comprises at least one leg arranged for cooperation with the profile connection element such that the clip is removable connectable to the profile connection element.

24. The partition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the post is releasable fixatable to a floor and/or a ceiling.

25. The partition wall system according to claim 24, wherein the post is provided with an adjustable foot, which foot, preferably is releasable fixatable to the floor and/or ceiling.

26. The partition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the post has a hollow cross-section.

27. The partition wall system according to claim 1, wherein the posts and the profiles have the same cross-section, preferably a hollow cross-section, more preferably a hollow cross-shaped cross-section.

28. A method for mounting a partition wall system according to claim 1, comprising:

erecting at least two vertical posts;

connecting at least one profile horizontally to the vertical posts.

29. The method according to claim 28, further comprising:

connecting a further profile horizontally to the vertical posts, at a distance from the already mounted horizontal profile;

engaging a panel to the horizontal profiles.

30. The method according to claim 29, wherein engaging the panel to the horizontal profiles also provides for securing the panel to the horizontal profiles by means of a locking element.

31. A method for customizing a partition wall system according to claim 1, the method comprising:

erecting at least two vertical posts;

connecting at least one profile horizontally to the vertical posts: and

removing a panel from the partition wall system and replacing the removed panel by a different panel.

32. The method according to claim 31, further comprising providing multiple horizontal profiles, and engaging panels to predefined ones of the horizontal profiles.

33. A method for repositioning the partition wall system according to claim 1, the method comprising:

erecting at least two vertical posts;

connecting at least one profile horizontally to the vertical posts, and

demounting the partition wall system by removing the panels, deconnecting the horizontal profiles from the posts and releasing the posts from their current position, erecting the posts at another position and connecting the horizontal profiles and at least one panel.