Patent Grant
12313200
Partition systems are often employed to isolate portions of a building or room, by serving as a barrier to dust, noise, light, odors, and other intrusions. In construction zones, partitions are useful for protecting a clean area from a work area, for example, protecting an area where furniture and rugs are temporarily stored from an area where wood floors are being refinished.
Workers at construction sites often use rudimentary techniques for installing partitions. Some simply nail, screw, or staple the curtain or partition material to the floor, ceiling, and abutting walls, resulting in damage to their surfaces. Other workers setting up a barrier employ tape or other adhesives which could result in paint being removed from the wall or the adhesive material being difficult to remove. The tape usually fails to stick, but, if it does stick, as the tape is removed, paint can pull off with the tape, or adhesive is left behind.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,924,469 and 7,658,219, incorporated herein by reference, disclose partition mount systems that address these limitations. These systems utilize a plurality of spring-biased pole mounts that secure a curtain or drape material, such as plastic, cloth, and the like, to form a temporary partition. The disclosed system is a “clean” system configured to be installed and removed without damaging or otherwise marking the ceiling, floor or walls in the construction zone. Assembly is easy and fast and can be accomplished by a single individual. In certain applications, however, a sag, or gap, may be present in the curtain along a pole next to a wall, ceiling, door frame, or other abutting surface, compromising the effectiveness of the installation.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,533,712, the content of which is incorporated herein by reference, discloses a mount system that mitigates or eliminates sag, or gaps, between an installed curtain and an abutting surface such as a wall or ceiling. The system accomplishes this in a manner that avoids permanent damage to the wall or ceiling surface. The system includes a head with an elongated body and a compressible curtain interface. A pole, for example, as described in connection with U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,924,469 and 7,658,219, may be configured to urge the head and the curtain to the abutting surface, thereby eliminating a sag, or gap in the curtain.
In certain configurations, a pole supporting the elongated body of the head may be positioned so as to inhibit human movement. In addition, a single, elongated head may not be long enough to eliminate all of the sag in the partition system, and, thus, multiple poles and corresponding elongated heads may be required.
In an aspect, a mount, comprises a base having opposed upper and lower surfaces; at least one channel on the upper surface of the base extending in a first horizontal direction, wherein the at least one channel comprises a head-mounting feature constructed and arranged to removably retain a rail head in the first horizontal direction; at least one curtain attachment mechanism constructed and arranged to secure a curtain, wherein the at least one curtain attachment mechanism extends in a direction that is transverse to the first horizontal direction; and a socket at the lower surface of the base that is constructed and arranged to interface with a pole.
In some embodiments, the base comprises a substantially flat surface.
In some embodiments, the base comprises a curved surface.
In some embodiments, the mount further comprises at least one head mounting feature.
In some embodiments, the head-mounting feature comprises at least one retention tab.
In some embodiments, the head-mounting feature comprises at least two retention tabs constructed and arranged at opposite sides of the at least one channel.
In some embodiments, the head mounting feature comprises multiple pairs of retention tabs opposite each other along the channel, and wherein a spacing between a first one of the pairs of retention tabs is different than a spacing between a second one of the pairs of retention tabs.
In some embodiments, the head-mounting feature is constructed and arranged to slidingly retain the rail head.
In some embodiments, the at least one channel comprises a channel stop constructed and arranged to impede motion of the rail head in the first horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, the mount further comprises a lock constructed and arranged to secure a rail head in the at least one channel.
In some embodiments, the mount further comprises an end cap constructed and arranged to couple with the end of the rail head.
In some embodiments, the mount further comprises an end cap constructed and arranged to couple with an end of the rail head, wherein the end cap has grooves on opposing sides aligned with mounting grooves of the rail head.
In some embodiments, the at least one curtain attachment mechanism comprises a curtain head coupled to the base and a curtain clip removably coupled to the curtain head.
In some embodiments, the curtain head that is constructed and arranged to mate with the curtain clip.
In some embodiments, the curtain head comprises a flat surface.
In some embodiments, the curtain head has a substantially rectangular shape.
In some embodiments, the curtain head has a substantially square shape.
In some embodiments, the curtain head comprises at least one extension constructed and arranged to secure the curtain clip to the curtain head.
In some embodiments, the curtain head is fixed in position with respect to the base.
In some embodiments, the curtain head is constructed and arranged to have an adjustable positional relationship with the base.
In some embodiments, the curtain head is constructed and arranged to pivot relative to the base.
In some embodiments, the curtain head is constructed and arranged to form a universal joint with the base.
In some embodiments, the curtain head is constructed and arranged to form a cylindrical joint with the base.
In some embodiments, the curtain clip comprises a flat surface that is constructed and arranged to mate with the curtain head.
In some embodiments, the curtain clip has a substantially rectangular shape.
In some embodiments, the curtain clip has a substantially square shape.
In some embodiments, the curtain clip comprises at least one curtain claw that is constructed and arranged to secure the curtain clip to the curtain head.
In some embodiments, the curtain claw comprises a neck that extends below the curtain clip and a lip that extends in a direction transverse to a direction of extension of the neck.
In some embodiments, the curtain clip comprises at least one pair of opposed curtain claws, and wherein a first distance between the necks of the curtain claws, a second distance between the lips of the curtain claws and a first width of the curtain head are determined so that the curtain clip can be seated and removed only when positioning the curtain clip at an acute angle relative to the curtain head.
In some embodiments, the curtain claw further comprises a clip friction pad that is constructed and arranged to provide friction between a top of the curtain clip and another surface.
In some embodiments, the curtain clip is constructed and arranged to mate with the curtain head in at least two different orientations.
In some embodiments, the curtain attachment mechanism is positioned at an distal end thereof.
In some embodiments, an upper position of the curtain attachment mechanism in a first vertical direction is lower than an upper position of the rail head in the first vertical direction when the rail head is seated in the at least one channel.
In some embodiments, the at least one curtain attachment mechanism extends upward from the upper surface of the base from a position that is offset from the at least one channel along the first horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, the at least one curtain attachment mechanism extends upward from the upper surface of the base from a position that is offset from the at least one channel along a second horizontal direction normal to the first horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, at least one curtain attachment mechanism extends upward from the upper surface of the base from a position that is offset from the at least one channel along the first horizontal direction and at least one curtain attachment mechanism extends upward from the upper surface of the base from a position that is offset from the at least one channel along a second horizontal direction normal to the first horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, the at least one curtain attachment mechanism extends upwards from the upper surface of the base from a position that is offset from the center of the base along the first horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, a position of the socket is offset from a center of the base along the first horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, the socket mates with a ball of a pole and the socket has a depth that is greater than a height of the ball of the pole.
In some embodiments, the socket surrounds, in a horizontal direction the ball of an inserted pole.
In some embodiments, the socket extends in a direction transverse to the base of the mount.
In some embodiments, the socket is constructed and arranged to form a fixed connection with an inserted pole.
In some embodiments, the socket is constructed and arranged to form a universal joint with an inserted pole.
In some embodiments, the socket is constructed and arranged to form a cylindrical joint with an inserted pole.
In some embodiments, the mount further comprises at least one neck retainer that extends below the lower surface of the base.
In some embodiments, the socket mates with a ball of a pole, wherein the socket is constructed and arranged such that the ball of an inserted pole can be readily removed from the socket.
In some embodiments, a position of the at least one channel relative to the base is adjustable.
In another aspect, a bridge comprises: a base at a proximal end of the bridge constructed and arranged to interface with a pole; a connector at a distal end of the bridge constructed and arranged to interface with a socket; and a neck between the base and the connector.
In some embodiments, the base extends in a first horizontal direction normal to a direction of extension of the neck, and wherein the base is curved along a second horizontal direction orthogonal to the direction of extension of the neck and the first horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, the bridge further comprises a bridge friction pad on the base constructed and arranged to create friction with a pole at the interface.
In some embodiments, the friction pad comprises at least one groove constructed and arranged to enhance the friction.
In some embodiments, the at least one groove is raised relative to a surface of the pad.
In another aspect, a method of installing a dust partition system comprise inserting a first end of a first rail head into a coupler. The coupler comprises: a first channel comprising a first axis of extension in a first horizontal direction, the first channel comprising a first set of head-mounting features constructed and arranged to retain the first rail head to the coupler while permitting movement of the first rail head relative to the coupler in the first horizontal direction; and a second channel comprising a second set of head-mounting features constructed and arranged to retain a second rail head to the coupler while permitting movement of the second rail head relative to the coupler in a second horizontal direction. A first end mount is inserted at an end of the first rail head. A second end mount is inserted at an end of the second rail head. Each of the first and second end mounts comprise: a base having opposed upper and lower surfaces; at least one channel on the upper surface of the base, the at least one channel comprising a head-mounting feature constructed and arranged to removably retain the respective first or second rail head; and at least one curtain attachment mechanism constructed and arranged to secure a curtain, wherein the at least one curtain attachment mechanism extends in a transverse direction from the base; and a socket at the lower surface of the base that is constructed and arranged to interface with a pole. The method further comprises adjusting positions of the first and second rail heads relative to the coupler to thereby adjust a distance between the first and second end mounts; attaching a curtain to the first and second rail end mounts; mounting a first pole to the coupler; raising the coupler, first and second rail heads, first rail end mount, second rail end mount and curtain with a first pole; inserting a second pole into the socket on the first rail end mount; inserting a third pole into the socket on the second rail end mount; and removing the first pole.
In some embodiments, raising the coupler, first and second rail heads, first rail end mount, second rail end mount and curtain with the first pole urges the curtain against a neighboring surface.
In some embodiments, the first and second rail heads each include compressible pads that compress the curtain against a neighboring surface.
In an aspect, a system comprises: a floor rail extending in a first horizontal direction of extension, the floor rail comprising a channel extending along the length of the floor rail in the first horizontal direction of extension; and a curtain positioned between an upper surface of the floor rail.
In some embodiments, the system further comprises a pole platform positioned in the channel, wherein the curtain is positioned between the upper surface of the floor rail and a lower surface of the pole platform.
In some embodiments, a width of the pole platform in a second horizontal direction perpendicular to the first horizontal direction is greater than one half a width of the channel in the second horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, a width of the pole platform in a second horizontal direction perpendicular to the first horizontal direction is greater than one quarter a width of the channel in the second horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, the system further comprises a pole positioned on the pole platform, the pole extending in a third direction of extension transverse to the first and second horizontal directions of extension.
In some embodiments, the floor rail further comprises a first connector portion positioned at a first end of the channel.
In some embodiments, the first connector portion is moveable relative to the floor rail.
In some embodiments, the first connector portion is moveable in the first horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, the floor rail further comprises a second connector portion at a second end of the channel opposite the first end.
In some embodiments, the second connector portion is moveable relative to the floor rail.
In some embodiments, the second connector portion is fixed relative to the floor rail.
In some embodiments, the second connector portion is constructed and arranged to mate with the first connector portion of a neighboring floor rail to thereby secure positions of the neighboring floor rails.
In some embodiments, the channel is curved.
In some embodiments, the system further comprises at least one rail head.
In some embodiments, a width of the channel in a second horizontal direction perpendicular to the first horizontal direction is at least as wide as a width of the at least one rail head.
In some embodiments, a width of the channel in a second horizontal direction perpendicular to the first horizontal direction is at least as wide as a combined width of two rail heads.
In some embodiments, the floor rail further comprises at least one side wall at a side of the channel.
In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one side wall comprises at least one lip.
In some embodiments, the at least one lip comprises a friction material.
In some embodiments, the floor rail comprises a friction material at a lower surface.
In some embodiments, the system further comprises a rail clip positioned at the channel of the floor rail, the rail clip comprising: at least one side panel; and a base coupled to the at least one side panel.
In some embodiments, the at least one side panel extends in a direction transverse to the direction of extension of the base.
In some embodiments, the rail clip is coupled to the floor rail via an attachment mechanism.
In some embodiments, the system further comprises a curtain positioned between the rail clip and the floor rail.
In some embodiments, the rail clip comprises at least one protrusion.
In some embodiments, the floor rail comprises at least one hole constructed and arranged to couple with the at least one protrusion.
In some embodiments, the floor rail comprises at least one side rail, and wherein the at least one hole is at the at least one side rail.
In some embodiments, the at least one protrusion is at the at least one side panel of the rail clip.
In some embodiments, the at least one protrusion is at the base of the rail clip.
In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one side panel is bendable.
In some embodiments, at least one of the at least one side panel is elastically deformable.
In an aspect, a system, comprises: a first floor rail, comprising a first channel extending along the length of the first floor rail; a first connector portion positioned at a first end of the first floor rail; a second floor rail, comprising a second channel extending along the length of the second floor rail; and a second connector portion positioned at a first end of the second floor rail, wherein the first connector portion of the first floor rail and the second connector portion of the second floor rail are constructed and arranged to mate.
In some embodiments, the mating of the first connector portion of the first floor rail and the second connector portion of the second floor rail secures relative positions of the first and second floor rails.
In an aspect, a system comprises: a floor rail, comprising a channel extending along the length of the floor rail; a rail clip positioned at the channel of the floor rail, the rail clip comprising: at least one side panel; and a base coupled to the at least one side panel; and a curtain positioned between an upper surface of the floor rail and a lower surface of the rail clip.
In some embodiments, the at least one side panel extends in a direction traverse to the direction of extension of the base.
In some embodiments, the rail clip is coupled to the floor rail via an attachment mechanism.
In some embodiments, the system further comprises a curtain positioned between the rail clip and the floor rail.
In some embodiments, the rail clip comprises at least one protrusion.
In some embodiments, the floor rail comprises at least one hole constructed and arranged to couple with the at least one protrusion.
In some embodiments, the floor rail comprises at least one side rail, and the at least one hole is at the at least one side rail.
In some embodiments, the at least one protrusion is at the at least one side panel of the rail clip.
In some embodiments, the at least one protrusion is at the base of the rail clip.
In some embodiments, the at least one of the at least one side panel is bendable.
In an aspect, a corner mount comprises: a first portion comprising a first channel that extends along a first axis of elongation; a second portion comprising a second channel that extends along a second axis of elongation; and a connection region constructed and arranged to couple the first portion to the second portion, wherein the first axis of elongation is transverse the second axis of elongation.
In some embodiments, the first portion further comprises one or more head-mounting features.
In some embodiments, the corner mount further comprises a rail head coupled to the one or more head-mounting features.
In some embodiments, the corner mount further comprises a pad coupled to the second portion.
In some embodiments, the connection region comprises one or more joints.
In some embodiments, the first axis of elongation and the second axis of elongation lie at an obtuse angle relative to each other.
The foregoing and other features and advantages of the inventive concepts will be apparent from the more particular description of embodiments of the inventive concepts, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to the same parts throughout the different views. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the inventive concepts.
FIGS. 9A1 through 9E1 are sequential perspective views and FIGS. 9A2 through 9E2 are sequential side views, illustrating a mounting sequence for mounting a curtain between a curtain clip and a curtain head in accordance with the present inventive concepts.
FIG. 19A1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a floor rail for a partition system, in accordance with aspects of the present inventive concepts.
FIG. 19A2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a floor rail and two rail heads, in accordance with aspects of the present inventive concepts.
Various example embodiments will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some example embodiments are shown. The present inventive concepts may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein.
It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “connected to” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected or coupled to the other element or layer or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another element or layer, there are no intervening elements or layers present. Like numerals refer to like elements throughout. As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the present inventive concepts.
Spatially relative terms, such as “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one element's or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly. A first element may be said to be “transverse” to a second element if the first element has a direction of extension that is not parallel to the direction of extension of the second element.
The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the present inventive concepts. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.
Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized example embodiments (and intermediate structures). As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations as a result, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, example embodiments should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions illustrated herein but are to include deviations in such shapes.
The rail head 200 may include a rail 210 and a pad 220. In some embodiments, the pad 220 comprises a compressible foam block. In other embodiments, the pad 220 may comprise a resilient or pliable material that is compressible, for example, a rubber, foam, or plastic member, an air-filled bag, a brush, or the like. In some example, the pad may comprise low-density foam or low-density rubber. Other resilient or pliable materials may be equally applicable to the principles of the present inventive concepts. In some embodiments, the rail 210 comprises, for example, an extruded member formed of plastic, aluminum, alloy, graphite, wood, or the like. In some embodiments, the rail 210 may have a generally U-shaped cross-sectional profile including a cavity 212 serving as a base or seat for the pad 220. The pad 220 can be mounted in the cavity 212 of the rail 210, and may be press-fit, bonded, or otherwise secured, into place. In some embodiments, the pad 220 extends from an upper surface of the rail 210. The pad 220 may be, for example, rectangular or cylindrical in shape and having a certain degree of compressibility so as to conform to an abutting surface, while still exhibiting resiliency and shape memory. The rail 210 may further include at least one horizontal groove 211 at each outer side surface for interfacing with the at least one head-mounting feature 130 of the channel 120 of the rail end mount 100.
In some embodiments, the rail end mount 100 further comprises at least one curtain attachment mechanism 300 extending in the first horizontal direction x and in a second horizontal direction y that is transverse to the first horizontal direction x of extension of the base. In some embodiments, the at least one curtain attachment mechanism 300 is attached to the base 110 and extends from the base 110 in the vertical direction z, for example as shown in the embodiment depicted in
In some embodiments, the rail end mount 100 further comprises a socket 400 at the lower surface 101b of the base 110 that is constructed and arranged to interface with a pole 500. In some embodiments, the socket 400 is constructed and arranged to interface with a pole 500, for example, of the type as described in connection with U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,924,469 and 7,658,219, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In this manner, the pole 500, when positioned in the socket 400, may be configured to raise and urge the rail end mount 100, the rail head 200, and an installed curtain against an abutting surface. In some embodiments, the pole 500 may be spring-loaded to be thereby compressible, along with the rail head 200 and rail end mount 100, between two surfaces of a room or hallway of a building, as described in connection with U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,924,469 and 7,658,219, incorporated herein by reference.
In some embodiments, the at least one channel 120 on the upper surface 101a of the base 110 is constructed and arranged such that the rail head 200 may be inserted, located, and adjusted in position relative to the base 110. In some embodiments, the length lc of the channel 120 in the direction of the first horizontal axis x may be substantially less than the length of the rail head 200 in the direction of the first horizontal axis x. In other embodiments, the length lc of the channel may be substantially similar to the length of the rail head 200. In other embodiments, the length lc of the channel may be longer than the length of the rail head 200.
In some embodiments, the length of the channel lc is determined as a distance between a first end 102a of the base 110, the first end 102a being opposite a position at which the curtain attachment mechanism 300 is coupled to the base 110, and a channel stop 140 which operates as a stop to limit the degree of insertion of the rail head 200 into the base 110. In some embodiments, the channel length lc corresponds with the resultant length of coupling between the end of the rail head 200 and the rail end mount 100 when the rail head 200 is fully inserted into the rail end mount 100 so as to be hindered from further insertion by the channel stop 140.
In some embodiments, the rail end mount 100 includes at least one head-mounting feature 130 constructed and arranged to removably retain the rail head 200 in the channel 120. In some embodiments, the at least one head-mounting feature 130 is constructed and arranged to slidingly retain the rail head 200, and, in particular, retain an end region of the rail head 200. In some embodiments, the head-mounting feature 130 comprises one or more retention tabs. In the embodiment of
While the present embodiment of
In some embodiments, the rail end mount 100 comprises a channel stop 140 at a first end, referred to herein as a proximal end, of the channel 120. In some embodiments, the channel stop 140 is constructed and arranged to impede or limit the motion of the rail head 200 so as to locate the position of the rail head 200 when fully inserted in the channel 120. In the present embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, the retention tabs 130 can be constructed and arranged to snugly capture the end of the rail head 200. Such a configuration mitigates or prevents inadvertent release of the rail head 200 from the base 110. In some embodiments, the retention tabs 130 can be formed of a resilient material that is elastically deformable so as to maintain a pressure or compressive force on the sidewalls and/or grooves 211 of a rail 210 of an inserted rail head 200. In other embodiments, the retention tabs 130 can comprise a friction material that induces a friction force on the sidewalls and/or grooves 211 of a rail 210 of an inserted rail head 200. With reference to the embodiment of
Referring back to
In some embodiments, referring back to the embodiment of
An installed configuration can be seen in the side view of
In some embodiments, the curtain attachment mechanism 300 is spatially offset from the channel 120 in the second horizontal direction y. In some embodiments, the curtain attachment mechanism 300 is spatially offset from the location of the channel 120 in the first horizontal direction x and in the second horizontal direction y. In some embodiments, the curtain attachment mechanism 300 extends in an upward direction from the upper surface of the base 110 from a position that is offset from the center of the base 110 along the first horizontal direction x. In some embodiments, the curtain attachment mechanism 300 extends upward from the upper surface of the base 110 from a position that is offset from the center of the base 110 along the second horizontal direction y. In some embodiments, the rail end mount 100 may comprise more than one curtain attachment mechanism 300. In such an embodiment, each curtain attachment mechanism 300 may extend from a different top location on the base 110 of the upper surface of the rail end mount 100. Each curtain attachment mechanism 300 extends in a direction that is transverse to the first horizontal axis. In some embodiments, the curtain attachment mechanism 300 may be spatially offset from the channel 120 in the first horizontal direction x.
The curtain head 310 may have at least one extension 315. For example, the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, the upper and lower surfaces of the curtain clip 320 may have a substantially square shape. In other embodiments the upper and lower surfaces of the curtain clip 320 may be shaped differently such as, but not limited to, a rectangle, triangle, polygon, oval, circle, and the like. In some embodiments the shape of the upper and lower surfaces of the curtain clip 320 is symmetrical and can be mated with the curtain head 310 in different configurations.
The curtain clip 320 may include at least one curtain claw 325 that extends below the curtain clip 320. In some embodiments, multiple curtain claws 325 at opposed sides of the curtain clip 320. For example, in the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, such as the one shown in
Referring to the side views of
In some embodiments, the head 310 and clip 320 can be dimensioned so that during application and removal of the clip 320 on the head, the necks 326e, 326f and lips 327e, 327f of the first and second curtain claws 325e, 325f touch the end of the head 310. In such an embodiment, the necks 326e, 326f and lips 327e, 327f of the first and second curtain claws 325e, 325f can be constructed and arranged to flex or bend around the end of the head 310 during installation or removal in a press-fit or snap-on arrangement.
FIGS. 9A1 through 9E1 are sequential perspective views and FIGS. 9A2 through 9E2 are sequential side views, illustrating a mounting sequence for mounting a curtain 700 between a curtain clip 320 and a curtain head 310 in accordance with the present inventive concepts. Referring to FIGS. 9A1 and 9A2, initially, a portion of a curtain 700 is positioned between the curtain head 310 and the curtain clip 320. FIG. 9A2 is a side view of the curtain attachment mechanism 300 showing the curtain positioned on the curtain head 310 and the curtain clip 320 positioned above the curtain head in accordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 9A2, the curtain claw 325 is constructed and arranged such that when the neck 326 (see
FIGS. 9B1 and 9B2 are top perspective and side views, respectively, of the curtain clip 320 at an angled position prior to mounting onto the curtain head 310 in accordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts. In this view it can be seen that the curtain clip 320 is initially tipped at an angle to allow the curtain claws 325 at a first end of the curtain clip 320 to grasp a first edge of the curtain head 310.
FIGS. 9C1 and 9C2 are top perspective and side views, respectively, of the curtain clip 320 at an angled position relative to the curtain head 310 in accordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts. FIGS. 9C1 and 9C2 also show the curtain clip 320 making contact with one side of the curtain 700 at the position identified by arrow 911. The lip 327 on one of the curtain claws 325 is positioned below the lower surface of the curtain head 310. As described in connection with
FIGS. 9D1 and 9D2 are top perspective and side views, respectively, of the curtain clip 320 mated with the curtain head 310 in accordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts. It can be seen in this view that when the curtain clip 320 is tipped at an angle and made to contact the curtain head 310 at one end, as shown in FIG. 9C1, 9C2, the curtain clip 320 can then be pivoted in a downward direction identified by arrow 913 and made to fully seat on the curtain head 310. In this position, the curtain 700 is secured and the rail end mount 100 is prepared for mounting.
In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 9A1, 9A2, 9B1, 9B2, 9C1, 9C2, 9D1, and 9D2 the curtain clip 320 is positioned with respect to the curtain head 310 such that there are two curtain claws 325 at a first y position and there are two additional curtain claws 325 at a second y position opposite the first y position. FIGS. 9E1 and 9E2 are top perspective and side views, respectively, of the curtain clip 320 mated with the curtain head 310 in accordance with embodiments of the present inventive concepts. The curtain clip 320 in FIGS. 9E1 and 9E2 is oriented differently than the curtain clip 320 in the previous figures. Rather than having the pairs of curtain claws 325 at different y positions, in this embodiment, there are two curtain claws 325 at a first x position and there are two additional curtain claws 325 at a second x position. In an embodiment where the curtain head 310 and curtain clip 320 are square in shape, the user can optionally mount the curtain clip 320 oriented as shown in the illustration of FIGS. 9E1, 9E2 or oriented as shown in the illustration of FIGS. 9D1, 9D2.
In some embodiments, for example referring to the embodiment depicted in
Referring back to
In some embodiments, the curtain attachment mechanism 300 may be constructed and arranged to pivot relative to the base 110. In some embodiments, the curtain attachment mechanism 300 and base 110 may be coupled by a cylindrical joint to allow pivot of the head 310 about the vertical direction of the vertical axis z relative to the base 110. In some embodiments, the curtain attachment mechanism 300 and base 110 may be coupled by a universal joint to allow pivot of the curtain attachment mechanism 300 about one or more of the first and second horizontal axes x, y or the vertical direction of the vertical axis z relative to the base 110. In other embodiments, the position of the curtain attachment mechanism 300 can vary in height relative to the vertical position of the base 110 in the vertical direction of the vertical axis z. For example, the vertical position can vary continuously or can be indexed in the vertical direction of the vertical axis z.
Referring back to
In some embodiments, referring in particular to
In some embodiments, the socket 400 may be constructed and arranged to prevent the pole 500 from moving with respect to the rail end mount 100. For example, the socket 400 may include captures that operate to capture the ball 501 of the pole 500. In such an embodiment, the captures operate to secure the ball 501 until a suitable separation force is applied to the joint to separate the ball 501 from the socket 400. In such embodiments, the socket 400 is constructed and arranged to capture the ball 501 of the pole 500 so as to form a universal joint with the ball of the pole 500.
In some embodiments, the rail end mount 100 may include neck retainers (see retainers 1024 of
In some embodiments, the rail end mount 100 as described herein may be used in connection with the adjustable-length rail mount system described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/216,877, filed Jul. 22, 2016, issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,081,955 the content of which is incorporated herein by reference, in its entirety.
The system can include, for example, a first head 1200a and a second head 1200b. The first and second heads 1200a and 1200b are joined together by a coupler 1010. In some embodiments, the heads 1200a, 1200b slide though first and second channels 1012, 1014 of the coupler 1010 so that they are slidably coupled together by the coupler 1010. In this manner, the combined longitudinal length of the first and second heads 1200a, 1200b can be freely adjusted. An extendable and compressible partition mount pole 500, for example, of the type as described in connection with U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,924,469 and 7,658,219, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, may be configured to urge the coupler 1010, rail heads 1200a, 1200b, and the curtain 700 against an abutting surface, thereby eliminating a sag or gap in the curtain. In some embodiments, the extendable pole 500 may be spring-loaded to be thereby compressible between two surfaces of a room or hallway of a building.
Each of the first and second rail heads 1200a and 1200b may include an elongated rail 210 and a compressible pad 220, for example, a foam block, as shown in the embodiment of
The coupler 1010 includes multiple channels, for example, first and second channels, respectively, constructed and arranged such that the first and second heads 200a, 200b may be inserted, located, and adjusted in position relative to each other therein, respectively.
In some embodiments, the coupler 1010 includes a socket 1022 having teeth at a central, bottom location of the coupler 1010 and optional neck retainers 1024 extending in the first horizontal direction x along the bottom of coupler 1010 with the socket 1022 therebetween. The socket 1022 is configured to receive a ball of pole 500. In some embodiments, the ball and socket 1022 are in a snap-fit relationship and together form a universal joint for allowing rotation of the first and second rail heads 1200a, 1200b relative to the pole 500. In another embodiment, the socket 1022 can comprise a tapered concave region consistent with the socket 400 of the end mount 100 described herein. The optional neck retainers 1024 may be present to limit the rotation on the universal joint to one degree of freedom, for example to limit rotation of the coupler 1010 relative to the pole 500 in a direction about the first horizontal axis x, or to limit rotation of the coupler 1010 relative to the pole 500 in a direction about the second horizontal axis y.
The coupler 1010 may include retention tabs 1026A, 1026B, 1028A and 1028B along outer edges of first and second channels 1012 and 1014, respectively, and a locking mechanism 1016 between an edge of the coupler 1010 and the socket 1022. The first and second rail heads 200a, 200b are inserted into channels 1012 and 1014 such that the retention tabs 1026A, 1026B, 1028A and 1028B slide freely along the horizontal grooves 211 of the rails 210 of the first and second rail heads 200a, 200b. A locking mechanism 1016 includes a tab for locking the rail heads 200a, 200b into position in their channels 1012, 1014.
The first and second channels 1012 and 1014 extend in a first horizontal direction x. The first and second channels 1012 and 1014 are horizontally offset in a second horizontal direction y perpendicular to the first horizontal direction x. The horizontal axes of the first and second channels 1012, 1014 are pitched at an angle relative to each other in a vertical direction, such that the first channel 1012 extends below the second channel 1014 in a vertical direction along a section of channel 1012 and the second channel 1014 extends below the first channel 1012 in a vertical direction along a section of the channel 1014. The sections, and the regions between them are thus pitched relative to each other so that the resulting channels 1012, 1014 lie along axes of extension that are at a non-zero angle relative to each other in a vertical direction, for example, in some embodiments, an angle ranging between about 0.5 degrees to about 10 degrees, for example an angle of about 2 degrees. An example of the pitch angle θ can be viewed in the side view of
In this manner, the first channel 1012 has a first axis of extension in a first horizontal direction, while the second channel 1014 has a second axis of extension in the first horizontal direction. The second axis of extension is parallel to and spaced apart from the first axis of extension in the second horizontal direction y, the second axis of extension having a pitch angle relative to the first axis of extension in a vertical direction z. The pitch angle is non-zero and less than 180 degrees. The first channel 1012 includes first head-mounting features 1026a, 1026b, the head-mounting features constructed and arranged to retain the first elongated head 1200a to the coupler 1010 while permitting movement of the first elongated head 1200b relative to the coupler 1010 in the first horizontal direction. The second channel 1014 includes second head-mounting features 1028a, 1028b, the head-mounting features constructed and arranged to retain a second elongated head 1200a to the coupler 1010 while permitting movement of the second elongated head relative to the coupler in the second horizontal direction.
The locking mechanism 1016 of the coupler 1010 can be engaged by a tab and rotates in a slot provided across the first and second channels 1012, 1014 of the coupler 1010. When the locking mechanism is in an engaged position, interference bulbs of the locking mechanism 1016 operate to frictionally interfere with the undersides of the bodies of the rails 210 of the heads 1200a, 1200b, thereby fixing the heads 1200a, 1200b in place relative to the coupler 1010. When the locking mechanism 1016 is in a disengaged, or open, position, a flat surface of the locking mechanism 1016 is positioned to face the channels 1012, 1014 so that horizontal positions of the first and second heads 1200a, 1200b be freely and slidably adjusted as shown in
In the example of
The convex configuration of
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
In other examples, the access unit 702 comprises a magnetic opening that operates to separate when sufficient opening force is applied and that operates to register itself to close the opening, when the opening force is removed. Illustrative embodiments of this type of magnetic opening are provided in PCT Publication No. WO 2017/117042, published Jul. 6, 2017, incorporated herein by reference.
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
Referring to
In the embodiment depicted in
In some embodiments, the bridge 600 may further comprise a base 620. In some embodiments, the base 620 extends along a third horizontal direction 621 and is constructed and arranged to support the pole 500. In some embodiments, the base 620 may have a curved cross-section at a section taken transverse the third horizontal direction. The base 620 may comprise a bridge friction pad 625 that is constructed and arranged to create friction, and prevent slippage, with the pole 500.
In some embodiments, the bridge friction pad 625 may comprise at least one groove 627 that can be indented or raised relative to the primary surface of the pad 625. In some embodiments, the at least one groove 627 may be aligned along the third horizontal direction. In some embodiments the at least one groove 627 may be transverse to the third horizontal direction. In some embodiments, the connector may comprise at least two grooves and at least one groove may be aligned along the third horizontal direction and at least one additional groove may be transverse the third horizontal direction.
In some embodiments, the connector 610 and the base 620 are connected by a neck 630. The neck 630 may comprise a neck retainer 635 that is constructed and arranged to restrict the motion of the bridge 600. For example, in some embodiments, the bridge connector 610 is a universal joint ball that is capable of rotating in any direction. The neck retainer 635 may restrict that motion to a single plane, for example along the third horizontal direction. In some embodiments, the length of the neck 630 may be adjustable.
In the embodiment shown, the floor rail 900 comprises a channel 905 that extends along its length. In this embodiment, a lower portion of the curtain 700 is positioned in the channel 905 and the pole platform 920 is positioned in the channel 905 and above the curtain 700. At least one pole 500 is positioned above the pole platform 920. In some embodiments, the direction of extension of the at least one pole 500 is transverse the length of extension of linear direction n of the floor rail 900. The lower end of the pole 500 engages the pole platform 920, which in turn engages the lower portion of the curtain 700 to secure the curtain 700 in place at the floor rail 900. It can be seen that multiple poles 500a, 500b can be positioned at different locations on the floor rail 900 to further enhance the interaction of the pole platform 920 and lower portion of the curtain 700.
FIG. 19A1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a floor rail 900 for a partition system, in accordance with aspects of the present inventive concepts. The floor rail 900 comprises a base 902 comprising opposed upper 904 and lower surfaces 906. In some embodiments, the base 902 extends in a linear direction n of extension. In other embodiments, the base 902 extends in a non-linear direction, for example, extends in a curved direction. In other embodiments, the base 902 extends in non-linear direction of extension such as an angled or zig-zagged direction of extension.
In some embodiments, the floor rail 900 comprises at least one side wall 908. In some embodiments, the at least one side wall comprises first and second side walls 908a, 908b along opposite edges of the base 902, as shown in
In an installed configuration, a lower portion of a curtain 700 can be positioned at the channel 905 at the floor rail 900. In some embodiments, a pole platform 920 is positioned above the curtain 700 and urged into the channel 905 against the base 902 of the floor rail by a bottom portion of a pole positioned therein, as shown in
FIG. 19A2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a floor rail 900 and two rail heads 200, in accordance with aspects of the present inventive concepts. In some embodiments, the width w of the floor rail 900 are equal to or greater than the width of at least two rail heads 200a, b, as shown in FIG. 19A2. In this embodiment a bottom end of a pole 500 is coupled to a coupler 1010, for example in a manner similar to the configuration of
In the embodiment shown in
In the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, at least one lip further secures the lateral position of at least one pole 500. In alternative embodiments, the floor rail 900 comprises pole seats 912 constructed and arranged to secure the lateral position of at least one pole 500.
In the embodiment shown in
Referring to the view of
In some embodiments, the second connector portion 934b comprises one or more seats 935. In the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, the first connector portion 932a of the first floor rail 900a couples to the second connector portion 934b of the second floor rail 900b. In some embodiments, when the first and second connector portions 932a, 934b are coupled each of the one or more claws 933 of the first connector portion 932a are mated with a corresponding one of the one or more seats 935 of the second connector portion 934b.
In some embodiments, at least one first connector portion 932 is moveable relative to its corresponding rail 900a. In some embodiments, the first connector portion 932 is moveable relative to the body of the rail 900 and can be retracted so that a distal end is flush with the edge of the floor rail 900, as shown in
In the embodiment shown in
In the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, the first connector portion 3132 comprises one or more claws 3133. In the embodiment shown in
In the embodiment shown in
In the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, the second connector portion 3234 comprises one or more seats 3235. In the embodiment shown in
In the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, the position of the first portion 3100 of the floor rail coupler 3000 is fixed relative to the position of the second portion 3200 of the floor rail coupler 3000. In some embodiments, the first portion 3100 of the floor rail coupler 3000 is rotatably coupled to second portion 3200 of the floor rail coupler 3000. In the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, such as the one shown in
In some embodiments, the rail clip 1000 is coupled to the floor rail 900 using an attachment mechanism. In some embodiments, such as the one shown in
In some embodiments, the rail clip 1000 comprises the one or more protrusion 1400. In the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, the floor rail 900 comprises the one or more holes 950. In some embodiments, each protrusion 1400 on the rail clip 1000 is constructed and arranged to couple to a corresponding hole 950 of the floor rail 900. In embodiment shown in
In alternative embodiments, mating arrangement between the rail clip 1000 and the floor rail 900 is reversed. In such embodiments, the floor rail 900 comprises the one or more protrusions, with each protrusion coupled to a corresponding hole of the rail clip 1000.
In some embodiments, the size of the opening hz for each hole 950 is greater than the size pz of the protrusion 1400 such that there is enough room for the curtain 700 to fit through the hole, around the protrusion 1400.
In some embodiments, the first portion 2100 of the corner mount 2000 comprises some, or many, of the features described herein in connection with the rail end mount 100. In the embodiment shown in
In the embodiment shown in
In some embodiments, the at least one channel 2420 comprises at least one mounting feature 2430 that is constructed and arranged to removably retain a pad 2440. In the embodiment shown in
The pad 2440 can be mounted in the cavity 2412 of the second portion 2400, and may be press-fit, bonded, or otherwise secured, into place. In some embodiments, the pad 2440 extends from an upper surface of the second portion 2400. The pad 2440 may be, for example, rectangular or cylindrical in shape and having a certain degree of compressibility so as to conform to an abutting surface, while still exhibiting resiliency and shape memory.
In some embodiments, the pad 2440 comprises a compressible foam block. In other embodiments, the pad 2440 may comprise a resilient or pliable material that is compressible, for example, a rubber, foam, or plastic member, an air-filled bag, a brush, or the like. In some example embodiments, the pad 2440 may comprise low-density foam or low-density rubber. Other resilient or pliable materials may be equally applicable to the principles of the present inventive concepts.
In some embodiments, the first portion 2100 of the corner mount 2000 is coupled to the second portion 2400 of the corner mount 2000 at a connection region 2500. In some embodiments, the connection region 2500 positions the first portion 2100 at a fixed angle with respect to the second portion 2400. In some embodiments, the connection region 2500 comprises one or more joints that allow the first portion 2100 and second portion 2400 to pivot relative to one another. In some embodiments, the connection region 2500 comprises one or more joints that allow the first portion 2100 and second portion 2400 to pivot relative to one another through a fixed range of angles.
In some embodiments, the corner mount 2000 comprises three or more portions. In some embodiments, with three or more portions, a connection region 2500 is positioned between some of the neighboring portions. In such embodiments, the connection region 2500 can have the characteristics described previously. In some embodiments, with three or more portions, a connection region 2500 is positioned between all of the neighboring portions. In such embodiments, the connection region 2500 can have the characteristics described previously.
In some embodiments, length of the channel 2120 of the first portion 2100 of the corner mount 2000 is substantially the same as the length of the channel 2420 of the second portion 2400 of the corner mount 2000. In some embodiments, length of the channel 2120 of the first portion 2100 of the corner mount 2000 is substantially different than the length of the channel 2420 of the second portion 2400 of the corner mount 2000.
In some embodiments, the corner mount 2000 presses the curtain against features that are transverse with respect to the ceiling or the side walls. For example, in some embodiments, the corner mount 2000 presses the curtain against a crown molding or similar such feature, in order to reduce any gaps or sags in the curtain.
While inventive concepts have been particularly shown and described with references to embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the inventive concepts as defined by the appended claims.
This application claims the benefit of: U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/791,306, filed Jan. 11, 2019;U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/893,465, filed Aug. 29, 2019;U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/791,233, filed Jan. 11, 2019; andU.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/931,380, filed Nov. 6, 2019; the content of each being incorporated herein by reference, in its entirety. This application is related to: U.S. Pat. No. 5,924,469, issued on Jul. 20, 1999;U.S. Pat. No. 6,564,512, issued on May 20, 2003;U.S. Pat. No. 7,073,758, issued on Jul. 11, 2006;U.S. Pat. No. 7,533,712, issued on May 19, 2009;U.S. Pat. No. 7,658,219, issued on Feb. 9, 2010;U.S. Pat. No. 7,670,401, issued on Mar. 2, 2010;U.S. Pat. No. 7,743,512, issued on Jun. 29, 2010;U.S. Pat. No. 7,717,382, issued on May 18, 2010;U.S. Pat. No. 9,115,539, issued on Aug. 25, 2015;U.S. Pat. No. 9,657,514, issued on May 23, 2017;U.S. Pat. No. 9,663,962, issued on May 30, 2017;U.S. Pat. No. 10,081,955, issued on Sep. 25, 2018;U.S. Pat. No. 10,174,514, issued on Jan. 8, 2019;U.S. Pat. No. 10,428,539, issued on Oct. 1, 2019;Patent Cooperation Treaty Application Serial Number PCT/US16/068493, filed on Dec. 23, 2016, PCT Publication No. WO 2017/117042, published Jul. 6, 2017; andU.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/822,423, filed on Nov. 27, 2017, United States Publication No. 2018-0154293, published Jun. 7, 2018; the content of each being incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US2020/013282 | 1/13/2020 | WO |
| Publishing Document | Publishing Date | Country | Kind |
|---|---|---|---|
| WO2020/146862 | 7/16/2020 | WO | A |
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