SCREEN SYSTEM

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a screen structure, and to a screen system for attachment to a surface.

BACKGROUND

Bistable extendable members, also referred to as “bistable reeled composites” (BRCs) and/or “split tube extendable members” (“STEMs”) and/or “split tubes” and/or “extendible sheet members” and/or“bistable composite elements”, are elements which are configurable between two stable forms: a rigid longitudinally extending structure, and a compact coil of flat rolled up material. In the compact coiled/rolled up form, a bistable extendable member can be rolled up/wound/coiled about a first axis. In the rigid longitudinally extending form, the bistable extendable member longitudinally extends straight along a second axis which is perpendicular to the first axis.

Bistability in a bistable extendable member arises as a result of the manipulation of the Poisson's ratio and isotropy in the various layers of material making up the bistable extendable member. Bistable extendable members can be made from fibre-reinforced composite materials, for example glass fibres in a thermoplastic matrix, which are consolidated under conditions of elevated temperature and pressure.

Due to their mechanical properties of being extendable and retractable again into a rolled up state, bistable extendable members can be useful in retractable structures such as retractable panels, screens, walls, dividers and/or partitions, such as those described in WO2019201948A1 and EP3251562B1.

WO8808620 describes an elongate element in the form of a longitudinally split tube. U.S. Pat. No. 6,217,975B1 describes an extendable sheet member which is configurable between first and second states. U.S. Pat. No. 6,602,574B1 describes an extendible, coilable member which is reversibly configurable between a coiled form and an extended form. WO9962811 describes a compound member formed from at least two extendible, coilable members, each of which is reversibly configurable between a coiled form and an extended form. U.S. Pat. No. 6,256,938B1 describes an elongate element in the form of a longitudinally split tube which is arranged to be progressively flattened and wound about an axis extending transversely to the longitudinal extent of the tube to form a coil.

The present disclosure seeks to alleviate, at least to a certain degree, the problems and/or address at least to a certain extent, the difficulties associated with the prior art.

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a screen structure. The screen structure comprises at least one support element comprising a bistable extendable member; a panel element attached to the at least one support element, wherein the at least one support element and the panel element are configured to be rollable about a first longitudinal axis, to provide for extension and retraction thereof along a direction generally perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis; a handle element for extending and retracting the at least one support element and the panel element upon application of a force to the handle element, wherein when the at least one support element and the panel element are substantially fully retracted, the handle element is arrangeable in one or more first positions and in a parked position; and at least one guide element comprising a curved or angled portion which the handle element is configured to bear against and move relative to, to guide the handle element from the one or more first positions to the parked position.

Advantageously, the at least one guide element, in particular the curved or angled portion thereof, provides for the handle element to be automatically guided/moved into the parked position upon the inadvertent placing of the handle element into one of the one or more first positions by a user of the screen structure. This automatic guiding movement may be thought of as being predetermined, as it will happen without a user of the screen structure needing to themselves input any further forces onto the handle element or elsewhere on the screen structure. As an example, this automatic guiding movement may be provided for by a combination of the curved or angled portion of the guide element, and by the forces inherent in the bistable extendable member as a result of its mechanical bistability, and/or as a result of the stiffness/spring force of a spring element which may be arranged within the screen structure, for example with a rotor element, to provide a resistive force against the extension of the bistable extendable member and the panel element. Advantageously, this can provide that the handle element is automatically constrained to sit in the parked position. The parked position may be designed to be a position in which a leading end portion of the at least one support element is left slightly extended, i.e. partially uncoiled, to protect the at least one support element, and to place the minimum amount of force thereon. For example, a leading end portion of the at least one support element may be attached to the handle element via one or more mechanical fastenings, and the parked position of the handle element may be designed to be a position in which said leading end portion is left unwrapped and physically separated from a coiled portion of the at least one support element, to avoid the risk of said one or more mechanical fastenings from rubbing on the coiled portion. That is, the parked position may be chosen to be a position which minimises the likelihood of rubbing or other surface damage or mechanical damage to the at least one support element. Thus, such a screen structure can advantageously reduce the risk of damage to the at least one support element, and may be more reliable and may have a longer lifetime. Also, such a screen structure achieves this in a manner which does not require a potentially bulky housing or casing element substantially enclosing the at least one support element and the panel element, and thus makes the screen structure lighter and cheaper. Furthermore, such a screen structure may be easier to use, as the ergonomics of the use of the handle element may be improved by the inherency of the handle element to move towards the parked position as a result of the at least one guide element. Thus, the handle element may be easier to hold and use.

Optionally, when the at least one support element and the panel element are substantially fully retracted, the at least one support element comprises a coiled portion and an extended leading end portion; and when the handle element is in the parked position, the extended leading end portion is longer than when the handle element is in the one or more first positions.

Optionally, at least a portion of the curved or angled portion of the at least one guide element is arranged to be generally parallel to and/or concentric with an external surface of the coiled portion of the at least one support element.

Advantageously, this can increase the effect of the at least one guide element encouraging the handle element to move into/towards or to otherwise be constrained into the parked position.

Optionally, when the handle element is arranged in the parked position, the handle element is configured to bear against a second portion of the at least one guide element.

Advantageously, the second portion can serve as a stopping element, to constrain the movement of the handle element and to help guide it into the parked position.

Optionally, the second portion of the guide element comprises a generally straight edge or face arranged at an angle to the curved or angled portion of the guide element.

Optionally, the second portion of the guide element comprises a receiving portion configured to receive at least a portion of the handle element.

Advantageously, the receiving portion can improve the ergonomics of the handle element, to help ensure that it is at a particular angle/orientation when in the parked position, thus making the handle element easier to hold and use.

Optionally, the second portion of the guide element is arranged to be spaced apart from the first longitudinal axis in a plane normal to the first longitudinal axis by a distance which is greater than a radius of the coiled portion of the at least one support element in said plane when the at least one support element is substantially fully retracted.

Advantageously, this can achieve an optimum location for the parked position of the handle element, by balancing the effects of permitting enough of a closing force to encourage the handle element into the parked position, and to hold/constrain it in that position, whilst reducing the risk of damage, such as rubbing, to the at least one support element.

Optionally, the screen structure comprises two of said at least one guide elements, arranged to be spaced apart from one another along the first longitudinal axis.

Optionally, each of the guide elements is arranged to at least partially cover an upper or lower portion of the at least one support element.

Optionally, the at least one guide element comprises a plate which is generally flat in a plane normal to the first longitudinal axis.

Optionally, the at least one support element comprises one or more bistable composite split tube extendable members each having a longitudinal edge arranged generally perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis and to which the panel element is attached.

Optionally, each of the one or more bistable composite split tube extendable members is configurable in a first state in which it is at least partially rolled up about the first longitudinal axis, and a second state in which it is at least partially longitudinally extended along a direction generally perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis.

Optionally, the at least one support element comprises two bistable composite split tube extendable members which are arranged to be spaced apart from one another along the first longitudinal axis and to be parallel to one another.

Optionally, the at least one support element and the handle element are arranged to define a frame configured to support the panel element, the panel element being arranged inside the frame.

Optionally, the at least one guide element comprises a bumper element configured to engage at least a portion of the at least one support element and/or at least a portion of the handle element during retraction of the at least one support element and the panel element.

Advantageously, the bumper element can help the at least one support element to retract in and coil inwards in the correct desired orientation, in case a user of the screen structure were to aggressively push in the handle element with an inadvertently large force, too quickly, and/or at a particularly unsafe and/or unstable angle. Furthermore, the bumper element can advantageously press/hit against the at least one support element to encourage any stiff extended portions thereof to go back into their coiled/rolled up bistable state, which may occur due to creep, if the screen structure has been left extended/pulled out/open for a significant amount of time.

Optionally, the screen structure further comprises at least one housing element configured to enclose at least a portion of the at least one support element and/or at least a portion of the panel element.

Optionally, the at least one housing element comprises a bumper element configured to engage at least a portion of the at least one support element and/or at least a portion of the handle element during retraction of the at least one support element and the panel element.

Advantageously, the bumper element can help the at least one support element to retract in and coil inwards in the correct desired orientation, in a case a user of the screen structure were to aggressively push in the handle element with an inadvertently large force, too quickly, and/or at a particular unsafe and/or unstable angle. Furthermore, the bumper element can press/hit against the at least one support element to encourage any stiff extended portions thereof to go back into their coiled/rolled up bistable state, which may occur due to creep, if the screen structure has been left extended/pulled out/open for a significant amount of time.

Optionally, the screen structure further comprises: a rotor element defining the first longitudinal axis, and about which the at least one support element and the panel element are configured to be rollable; and a spring element configured to provide a restoring force to assist the retraction of the at least one support element and the panel element.

According to a second aspect of the disclosure, there is provided a screen system. The screen system comprises: a screen structure comprising: at least one housing element; at least one support element; and a panel element attached to the at least one support element and configured to be rollable about a first longitudinal axis, to provide for extension and retraction of the at least one support element and the panel element along a direction generally perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis; and at least one hinge arrangement coupled to the at least one housing element and configured to provide for the screen structure to pivot about a second longitudinal axis arranged generally parallel to the first longitudinal axis.

Advantageously, the at least one hinge arrangement can provide that the screen structure may be pivoted relative to a surface, such as a generally vertical wall. This can advantageously provide that the at least one support element and the panel element may be extended/pulled out/opened and retracted/pushed in/closed along a greater range of angles/directions/planes relative to a relatively fixed surface (such as a generally vertical wall), to which the screen system may be attached/mounted. This is because such range of angles/directions/planes may be shifted/displaced relative to said surface, by pivoting the screen structure about the second longitudinal axis. Advantageously, this can provide that the screen structure may be used in a larger variety of angles, without inadvertently causing damage to the at least one support element by trying to force it to extend and/or retract at or along a particular angle/direction/plane which may damage it aesthetically and/or mechanically. Thus, a user of the screen system can use the screen structure in a larger variety of angles, with confidence that the at least one support element will coil up and roll out nicely about the first longitudinal axis, and will not be pushed and/or kinked outwards, or otherwise damaged. The adaptability and flexibility of the screen structure can thereby be improved, thus increasing the range of environments and circumstances in which the screen system may be employed, and making it particularly suitable for architectural retrofitting projects. The lifetime of the screen system may thereby also be increased, due to the reduced risk of damage to the at least one support element, which may, for example, comprise one or more bistable extendable members, such as one or more bistable composite split tube extendable members. Additionally, the at least one hinge arrangement can provide that the screen structure can be attached to a discontinuous wall, for example a wall having a height that is shorter than a height of the screen structure or a spine element thereof, or a wall including one or more cable trunkings, windows, radiators and/or plug sockets protruding therefrom, to which a bracket or other mechanical attachment could not readily be attached. The at least one hinge arrangement can also advantageously provide for a gap between the screen structure and a surface to which it is to be attached. Thus, such a screen system may advantageously be installed in a wide variety of locations/environments, thus making it particularly further suitable for architectural retrofitting projects.

Optionally, the at least one support element comprises at least one bistable extendable member, such as a bistable composite split tube extendable member, each having a longitudinal edge arranged generally perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis and to which the panel element is attached, each of the at least one bistable composite split tube extendable members being configurable in a first state in which it is at least partially rolled up about the first longitudinal axis, and a second state in which it is at least partially longitudinally extended along one of said one or more planes.

Optionally, the screen structure further comprises a handle element attached to the at least one support element and/or to the panel element, and for extending and retracting the at least one support element and the panel element upon application of a force to the handle element.

Optionally, the at least one support element and the handle element define a frame configured to support the panel element, the panel element being arranged inside the frame.

Optionally, the screen system is configured to be attached to a surface, such as a generally vertical wall, and the first longitudinal axis is arranged to be generally parallel to said surface.

Optionally, the at least one hinge arrangement is configured to be coupled to a surface, such as a generally vertical wall, to attach the screen system to said surface, and to provide for the screen structure to pivot relative to said surface.

Optionally, the panel element is attached to the at least one support element by a zip.

Advantageously, this can provide that the panel element is removable from the screen structure, such that a particular panel element may be interchanged with a different panel element.

Optionally, the at least one hinge arrangement comprises: a pivot means arranged on the second longitudinal axis; and a fixing means and/or an adjustment means, wherein the fixing means is configured to rotationally fix the pivot means about the second longitudinal axis, and wherein the adjustment means is configured to provide for the pivot means to be rotated about the second longitudinal axis.

Advantageously, this can provide for the hinge arrangement to be selectively adjusted, for example loosened, to permit for pivoting motion thereof, when it is desired to change the orientation of the screen structure. Conversely, this can also advantageously provide for the hinge arrangement to be selectively rotationally fixed in place, when it is desired to not utilise the pivoting ability of the hinge arrangements, for example, when it is desired to lock or secure the screen structure in a particular orientation. In such a case, the fixing means and/or the adjustment means may be tightened to increase the amount of force required to rotate/pivot/move the pivot means, to increase the difficulty or pivoting the hinge arrangement.

Optionally, the at least one hinge arrangement comprises one or more friction means arranged to exert a frictional force on the pivot means, for example one or more washers and/or spacing elements.

Advantageously, this can provide for frictional resistance to the pivoting motion of the pivot means about the second longitudinal axis, to control and avoid inadvertent swinging motion of the hinge arrangement.

Optionally, the at least one hinge arrangement comprises a first bracket element coupled to the at least one housing element, and a second bracket element configured to be coupled to a surface such as a generally vertical wall, the first bracket element being configured to pivot about the second longitudinal axis relative to the second bracket element.

Optionally, the at least one hinge arrangement further comprises a third bracket element configured to be attached to a surface such as a generally vertical wall, the third bracket element being configured to slidably receive at least a portion of the second bracket element.

Advantageously, this can provide for improved ease of installation of the screen structure, when the screen structure is to be mounted/attached/fixed to a surface such as a vertical wall. Advantageously, the second bracket element may be slid, slot or otherwise positioned in place in the third bracket element by moving the second bracket element towards and into the third bracket element in a downwards direction.

Optionally, the at least one housing element and/or the at least one hinge arrangement comprises a bumper element configured to engage at least a portion of the at least one support element during retraction of the at least one support element and the panel element.

Optionally, the screen system comprises two or more of said at least one hinge arrangements, arranged to be spaced apart from one another along the first longitudinal axis and to be parallel to one another.

Advantageously, this can reduce the risk of unwanted vibrations and/or wobbling and/or rocking in the screen system.

Optionally, each of the hinge arrangements is arranged to be spaced apart from each of the other hinge arrangements along the first longitudinal axis by a distance of at least half a height of the screen structure.

Advantageously, such an arrangement can optimally reduce the risk of unwanted arrangements and/or wobbling and/or rocking in the screen system.

Optionally, the at least one housing element comprises a generally elongate casing element configured to enclose at least a portion of the at least one support element and/or at least a portion of the panel element, the casing element being arranged parallel to the first longitudinal axis, and comprising a channel configured to receive at least a portion of the at least one hinge arrangement.

Optionally, the second longitudinal axis is arranged to be spaced apart from the first longitudinal axis.

Optionally, the second longitudinal axis is arranged to be spaced apart from a surface, such as a vertical wall, to which the screen system is to be attached.

Advantageously, this may increase the range of pivotal motion of the screen structure about the second longitudinal axis.

Optionally, the screen structure is according to the first aspect of the disclosure.

Optionally, the screen structure includes any one or more of the optional features presented above in relation to the first aspect of the disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present disclosure may be carried out in various ways and examples of the disclosure will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A (prior art) shows a perspective view of a bistable extendable member in a partially rolled up state;

FIG. 1B (prior art) shows a perspective view of the bistable extendable member of FIG. 1A in a fully rolled up state;

FIG. 1C (prior art) shows a perspective view of the bistable extendable member of FIG. 1C in a fully longitudinally extended state;

FIG. 2A (prior art) shows the cross-sectional profile of the bistable extendable member of FIG. 1A when it is in a rolled up state, as in FIG. 1B;

FIG. 2B (prior art) shows the cross-sectional profile of the bistable extendable member of FIG. 1A when it is in a longitudinally extended state, as in FIG. 1C;

FIG. 3A (prior art) shows a front view of a screen structure in a fully extended position;

FIG. 3B (prior art) shows a front view of the screen structure of FIG. 3A in a partially extended position;

FIG. 4A shows a rear perspective view of a screen structure in a fully extended position;

FIG. 4B shows a front perspective view of the screen structure of FIG. 4B in a partially extended position;

FIG. 5A shows a plan view of a bistable extendable member and a handle element;

FIG. 5B shows a plan view of a bistable extendable member and a handle element;

FIG. 6 shows a top perspective view of a screen system;

FIG. 7 shows a top perspective view of a screen system;

FIG. 8A shows a top perspective view of a screen system;

FIG. 8B shows a top perspective view of a screen system;

FIG. 8C shows a top perspective view of a screen system;

FIG. 9A shows a top perspective view of a screen system in a first pivotal position;

FIG. 9B shows a top perspective view of the screen system of FIG. 9A in a second pivotal position;

FIG. 10 shows a side view of a screen system;

FIG. 11 shows a front perspective view of a hinge arrangement;

FIG. 12 shows an exploded front perspective view of the hinge arrangement of FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 shows a bracket element;

FIG. 14 shows a front perspective view of a screen system;

FIG. 15 shows a side view of a screen system;

FIG. 16A shows a plan view of a screen structure;

FIG. 16B shows a plan view of a screen system;

FIG. 17 shows a plurality of screen systems mounted to a wall; and

FIG. 18 shows a screen system mounted to a post.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1A illustrates a bistable extendable member 1. The bistable extendable member 1 is configurable in a first state in which the bistable extendable member 1 is rolled up (i.e. coiled) about a first axis 2, and a second state in which the bistable extendable member 1 is longitudinally extended along a second axis 3 which is perpendicular to the first axis 2. As shown in FIG. 1A, the bistable extendable member 1 can be in both the first state and the second state at the same time when the bistable member is partially coiled up or extended. For example, a first portion 4 of the bistable extendable member 1 can be in the first coiled state, and simultaneously, a second portion 5 of the bistable extendable member can be in the second extended state, with a transition portion 6 between the first portion 4 and the second portion 5. In the examples discussed herein, the bistable extendable member 1 comprises a bistable composite split tube extendable member. However, it is also to be understood that any other bistable extendable member(s) may be employed, such as a non-composite bistable extendable member, or any other bistable reeled composite or bistable split tube extendable member.

FIG. 1B shows the bistable extendable member 1 when it is fully in the first state. That is, when the entire length of the bistable extendable member 1 is rolled up about the first axis 2. Conversely, FIG. 1C shows the bistable extendable member 1 when it is fully in the second state. That is, when the entire length of the bistable extendable member 1 is longitudinally extended along the second axis 3.

As shown in FIG. 2A, when the bistable extendable member 1 is in the first state, in a plane which is normal to the second axis 3, the bistable extendable member 1 has a cross-sectional profile 7 which is substantially flat and straight. This is also shown in FIG. 1B. As shown in FIG. 2B, when the bistable extendable member 1 is in the second state, in a plane which is normal to the second axis 3, the bistable extendable member 1 has a cross-sectional profile 8 which is C-shaped. That is, when the bistable extendable member 1 is in the second state, it curves upwards at its longitudinal edges. This is also shown in FIGS. 1A and 1C.

With reference to FIG. 1A, the bistable extendable member 1 is selectively configurable between the first state and the second state. The bistable extendable member 1 can be progressively rolled up by applying a rolling force F_Rto the first portion 4 to cause an increase in the length of the bistable extendable member 1 which is rolled up to form the first portion 4 and conversely a decrease in the length of the bistable extendable member 1 which is extended to form the second portion 5. Conversely, the bistable extendable member 1 can be progressively longitudinally extended by applying an extending force F_Eto the first portion 4 to cause an increase in the length of the bistable extendable member 1 which is extended to form the second portion 5 and a decrease in the length of the bistable extendable member 1 which is rolled up to form the first portion 4.

With reference to FIG. 1B, when the bistable extendable member 1 is fully in the first state, i.e. when it is fully rolled up, a pulling force F_Pcan be applied to the outwardly facing end 9 of the bistable extendable member 1 in order to initiate the longitudinal extension of the bistable extendable member 1 to form the second portion 5. The extending force F_Ecan then be applied as in FIG. 1A to increase the length of the bistable extendable member 1 which is extended to form the second portion 5, as desired. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 1C, when the bistable extendable member 1 is fully in the second state, i.e. when it is fully longitudinally extended, a coiling force, F_c. can be applied to the end 9 of the bistable extendable member 1 to initiate the rolling up of the bistable extendable member 1 to start forming the first portion 4.

An exemplary application of the bistable extendable member 1 described herein shall now be described, with reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, which show an exemplary screen structure 47. In the screen structure 47, a first bistable extendable member 1a and a second bistable extendable member 1b (which may hereinafter be referred to collectively as “bistable extendable members 1”) are employed as upper and lower members 48a, 48b respectively, of a frame 48. Side members 48c, 48d of the frame 48 are provided by aluminium supports 43a and 43b respectively. A panel 44 comprising a flexible polymer film (though panels of other materials such as other polymers and/or textiles may also be employed) is arranged to hang substantially flat in the plane defined by the frame 48 and may be attached to the upper and lower members 48a, 48b directly, or via one or more zips. The aluminium supports 43a and 43b are each attached to a respective base support 45a, 45b. By means of a plurality of wheels 46 attached to the base supports 45a, 45b, the structure 47 is movable and portable.

By means of the two states of the bistable extendable members 1a and 1b, the frame 48 and thus also the panel 44 can be progressively rolled up or extended, due to the bistable properties of the bistable extendable members 1a and 1b, as described above in relation to the bistable extendable member 1. FIG. 3A shows the structure 47 and thus the panel 44 in a fully extended position wherein the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b are fully longitudinally extended, as in FIG. 1C. FIG. 3B shows the structure 47 and thus the panel 44 in a partially extended position wherein the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b are partially longitudinally extended, as in FIG. 1A. A pushing or pulling force can be applied to the support 43a to cause the frame 48 and the panel 44 to be retracted/rolled up/closed or extended/pulled out/opened respectively.

In the example shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the supports 43a, 43b are sized and shaped such that when the structure 47 and the panel 44 are in a substantially fully retracted position (not shown), the supports 43a, 43b will abut one another. Thus, the geometry of the supports 43a, 43b provides that the support 43a may only be positioned and orientated relative to the support 43b in one particular position and orientation, which may be designed to be a desired position and orientation which leaves a leading end portion of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b slightly extended, to avoid mechanical fastenings (not shown) which attach the leading end of each of the bistable extendable members 1 to the support 43a, from rubbing on the coiled portion 4 (see FIG. 1A) of the bistable extendable members 1, thus reducing the likelihood of damage to the bistable extendable members 1.

FIGS. 4A and 4
b show an alternative exemplary screen structure 15 which is mounted to a generally vertical wall 17. It is though envisaged that the screen structure 15 may be mounted to any other surface, such as a generally vertical post, or a piece of furniture. Alternatively, it is also envisaged that the screen structure 15 may be adapted to be freestanding, i.e. not mounted to a surface such as a wall.

The screen structure 15 is generally similar to the screen structure 47 shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, in that it comprises bistable extendable members 1a and 1b, and a panel 44. Though, instead of aluminium supports 43a and 43b (as in FIGS. 3A and 38), an elongate handle element 14 and a spine element 16 form a frame 18 together with the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b, inside which the panel 44 is arranged. The elongate handle element 14 and the spine element 16 may be formed of aluminium, or any other suitable metal or other material(s). In the example described herein, the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b comprise bistable composite split tube extendable members, though it is envisaged that any other bistable extendable members may be employed.

In the example shown, the spine element 16 comprises a generally straight elongate member having a generally rectangular cross-sectional profile. The spine element 16 is arranged to provide structural support and stiffness to the screen structure 15. Similarly, in the example shown, the handle element 14 comprises a generally straight elongate member having a generally square cross-sectional profile. A pushing or pulling force can be applied to the handle element 14 to cause the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 to be retracted/rolled up/closed or extended/pulled out/opened respectively about a first longitudinal axis 19 (see FIGS. 5A and 5B).

The handle element 14 and the spine element 16 are sized and shaped to be relatively narrow compared to the supports 43a, 43b in the aforementioned screen structure 47. Thus, the handle element 14 and the spine element 16 are not arranged to form a fully enclosed casing around the panel element 44 and the bistable extendable members 1 when the screen structure 15 is fully closed/retracted. That is, when the screen structure 15 is fully closed/retracted, the handle element 14 and the spine element 16 are not configured to abut one another. Accordingly, as a result of this geometry, the position of the handle element 14 relative to the spine structure 16, when the screen structure 15 is fully closed/retracted in, is not constrained to one particular position. This can be understood by referring to FIGS. 5A and 5B.

The spine element 16 may include one or more channels for slidably receiving one or more other components and/or mechanical fastenings, such as one or more hinge arrangements 27, which are described below. The spine element 16 may therefore be formed from an aluminium extrusion, for ease of manufacture and assembly. One or more handles and/or knobs and/or other protruding elements may be attached to the handle element 14 and arranged to protrude therefrom, to make it easier for a user of the screen structure 15 to grip and hold the handle element 14, to improve the ergonomics of the screen structure 15.

It is also envisaged that alternative shapes, sizes and configurations of handle elements and spine elements may alternatively be employed in the screen structure 15 other than those which are shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B and described below.

When the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 are pushed in/retracted inwards by a user of the screen structure 14 exerting a pushing/closing force on the handle element 14, if the handle element 14 is finally placed by said user in the position shown in FIG. 5B, then substantially all of the length of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b will be coiled/rolled up, including a leading end portion 11 thereof. This could result in mechanical fastenings 10 which attach the leading end portion 11 of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b to the handle element 14 and protrude therefrom, to be positioned adjacent, i.e. closely to a coiled up portion 4 of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b, thus increasing the risk of the mechanical fastenings 10 rubbing, or otherwise fouling, on the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b in a region 13. This could inadvertently cause damage to the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b over time during repeated extension and retraction of the screen structure 15.

If however when the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 are pushed in/retracted inwards by a user of the screen structure 14 exerting a pushing/closing force on the handle element 14, the handle element 14 is finally placed by said user in the alternate position shown in FIG. 5A, then whilst a significant proportion (i.e. most) of the length of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b would be coiled/rolled up, the leading end portion 11 thereof would be extended, not coiled. This would result in the mechanical fastenings 10 being positioned further away from the first coiled portion 4 of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b, providing a region of separation 12 therebetween. This would advantageously reduce the risk of the mechanical fastenings 10 rubbing on the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b, thus reducing the risk of damage thereto.

Thereby, it is to be understood that there are one or more first positions 14f (for example as shown in FIG. 5B) which the handle element 14 can be placed in which risk damage being caused to the bistable extendable members 1, and that there is a parked position 14p (see FIG. 5A) which the handle element 14 can be placed in which results in a reduced risk of such damage. As illustrated in FIG. 5A, in the parked position 14p of the handle element 14, the leading end portion 11 of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b is extended rather than fully coiled/rolled-up.

Referring now to FIG. 6, in order to guide the handle element 14 into the parked position 14p, the screen structure 15 further comprises guide elements 20a, 20b (which may hereinafter be referred to collectively as “guide elements 20”). Each of the guide elements 20a, 20b is in the form of a generally flat plate element arranged to be normal to the first longitudinal axis 19. An upper guide element 20a is arranged near an upper end of the screen structure 15 (see FIG. 6), and is arranged to at least partially cover an upper portion/edge of the bistable extendable member 1a. Similarly, a lower guide element 20b is arranged near a lower end of the screen structure (see FIG. 15), and is arranged to at least partially cover a lower portion/edge of the bistable extendable member 1b. It is however to be understood that the screen structure 15 need not necessarily include both an upper guide element 20a and a lower guide element 20b. That is, it is envisaged that just one guide element 20, either arranged near the upper end, lower end, or elsewhere in the screen structure 15, may be employed. For example, whilst it is also envisaged that the screen structure 15 need not necessarily include two bistable extendable members 1a, 1b, and may for example instead include just one bistable extendable member 1, such as one arranged adjacent an upper edge of the panel 44, in such a case the screen structure 15 may comprise just an upper guide element 20a, with no lower guide element 20b. It is also envisaged that the screen structure 15 may include more than two guide elements 20.

The shape and function of the upper guide element 20a shall now be discussed, with further reference to FIG. 6, though it is to be understood that the lower guide element 20b (if present) may also be generally similar or identical to the upper guide element 20a.

As shown in FIG. 6, the upper guide element 20a comprises a curved portion 21, a generally straight second portion 22, and a transition portion 23 therebetween. As aforementioned, the upper guide element 20a is in the form of a generally flat plate element arranged normal to the first longitudinal axis 19. In the plane which is normal to the first longitudinal axis 19, the flat plate element has a profile comprising a generally circular portion abutting a generally quadrilateral (for example, rectangular or trapezoidal) portion. The generally quadrilateral portion is arranged to abut and overlap with a segment of the circumference of the generally circular portion. The generally circular portion comprises the curved portion 21, as a curved edge/perimeter portion thereof, and the generally quadrilateral portion comprises the straight second portion 22, as a straight edge/perimeter portion thereof. The transition portion 23 is arranged between the generally circular portion and the generally quadrilateral portion and defines a border therebetween. The transition portion 23 thus defines where the curved portion 21 ends and the straight second portion 22 begins.

When the bistable extendable members 1 and the panel 44 are substantially fully retracted/closed (as shown in FIG. 6), if the handle element 14 is arranged in one or more of the first positions 14f (see FIG. 5B), in which the leading end portion 11 of the bistable elements 1 is fully coiled-up/rolled up (for example when the handle element 14 is at point 24a, 24b or 24c along the curved portion 21, as shown in FIG. 6), then the handle element 14 will bear against the curved portion 21 of the upper guide element 20a. Conversely, when the bistable extendable members and the panel 44 are substantially fully retracted/closed, if the handle element 14 is arranged in the parked position 14p, in which the leading portion 11 of the bistable extendable members 1 will be extended (as discussed above in relation to FIG. 5A), then the handle element 14 will bear against the second portion 22 of the upper guide element 20a, as shown in FIG. 6.

The curved portion 21 and the second portion 22 are sized, shaped and positioned to provide that when placed/positioned in the one or more first positions 14f, whilst bearing against the curved portion 21, the handle element 14 is configured to inherently move (for example, to slide relative to, or pass over) relative to the guide element 20a in a direction towards the transition portion 23 and the second portion 22, eventually reaching the second portion 22, thus resulting in the handle element 14 being moved into the parked position 14.

Once the handle element 14 is placed in one of the first positions 14f, this inherent movement towards the parked position 14p may be thought of as being “automatic” or “predetermined”, as it will happen without a user of the screen structure 15 needing to themselves input any further forces onto the handle element 14 or elsewhere on the screen structure. This automatic movement is provided for by a combination of the shape of the curved portion 21 and the second portion 22 of the guide elements 20 relative to the bistable extendable members 1, and of the forces inherent in the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b due to their two stable states (i.e. as a result of their mechanical bistability, as discussed above) and as a result of a spring element (not shown) arranged within the screen structure 15 to provide a resistive force against the extension of the bistable extendable members 1 and the panel 44.

In the example shown in FIG. 6, the curved portion 21 is shaped to be generally parallel to, i.e. concentric with, an external surface 25 of the coiled portion 4 of the bistable extendable members 1. That is, when the bistable extendable members 1 are substantially retracted/closed/rolled up, they have an outermost radius 1r, and the radius 20r of the guide element 20 in the region of the curved portion 21 is sized to be larger than the radius 1r, i.e. to cover and extend over and beyond the coiled portion 4 of the bistable extendable member 1. This provides for the handle element 14 to readily bear against the curved portion 21 and to move relative thereto in a manner which provides a path of least resistance since it corresponds with and is thus compatible with the shape of the coiled portion 4 of the bistable extendable member 1, and in a manner which is also determined by the forces inherent in the bistable extendable members 1 resulting from their mechanical bistability in their coiled up state.

As described above, the flat plate element comprises a generally circular portion comprising the curved portion 21, and abutting a generally quadrilateral portion comprising the straight second portion 22. As shown in FIG. 6, the second portion 22 is thus arranged at an angle to the curved portion 21 and hence at an angle relative to the circumference 1c of the coiled portion 4 of the bistable extendable member 1. The second portion 22 is thus arranged to act as a stopper to the movement of the handle element 14 along and relative to the curved portion 21. To provide that the second portion 22 acts to stop the movement of the handle element 14 in the right place, i.e. to correspond with the desired parked position 14p thereof, the second portion 22 is positioned relative to the first longitudinal axis 19 based on the dimensions “a”, “b” and “c”. “c” represents the radius of the curved portion 21 relative to the first longitudinal axis 19, and the position of the transition portion 23 relative to the first longitudinal axis 19. “a” and “b” are arranged to be perpendicular to one another and to form a right angled triangle with “c”. Together, “a”, “b” and “c” thus define the position and orientation of the second portion 22 relative to the curved portion 21.

Thus, the values of “a”, “b” and “c” are chosen such that the transition portion 23 (which defines where the curved portion 21 abuts the second portion 22) is spaced apart from the first longitudinal axis 19 by distance “c”, the value of “c” being greater than or equal to the radius 1r of the coiled portion of the bistable extendable members 1. In the example shown, the value of “c” is equal to approximately the radius 20r, which may be, for example, approximately 62.5 mm. The values of “a”, “b” and “c”, which thereby define the geometry of the second portion 22, may be chosen and optimised based on the geometry and mechanical properties of a particular implementation of the exemplary screen structure 15, for example based on the width, length, thickness and stiffness of a particular bistable extendable member 1, and/or based on the size and shape of a particular handle element 14, and/or based on the stiffness of a particular spring element (not shown) arranged within the screen structure 15 to provide a resistive force against the extension of the bistable extendable members 1 and the panel 44.

Thus, the shape of the guide elements 20, and in particular, the shape and position of the second portion 22 thereof, may be designed to correspond with the desired position and orientation of the parked position 14p of the handle element 14. If the parked position 14p is designed to be too far apart (for example, by a distance of more than three or four times the radius 1r) from the first longitudinal axis 19 (and hence, for example, too far apart from a rotor element (not shown) arranged within the screen structure 15 to which the bistable extendable members 1 and the panel 44 are attached and are arranged to rotate with), then there will not be enough of a closing force to encourage the handle element 14 into the final parked position 14, and to hold/constrain it in that position. If on the other hand, the parked position 14p is designed to be too close (for example, by a distance of approximately equal to the radius 1r) to the first longitudinal axis 19, then there will be an increased risk of the leading end 11 and/or the mechanical fastenings 10 rubbing on the coiled portion 4 of the bistable extendable members 1.

Additionally, the shape and position of the second portion 22 of the guide elements 20 may also be designed such that in the parked position 14p, the handle element 14 is at a particular angle/orientation which makes it easier to hold and use. To improve the ergonomics of the use of the handle element 14 for a handle element 14 of a particular shape, the values of “a”, “b” and “c” may therefore be designed/chosen accordingly. For example, the handle element 14 shown in the example of FIG. 6 has a generally square cross-section, so the second portion 22 has been designed to be generally straight/flat, and such that the angle between the dimensions “a” and “c” is between approximately 45° to 75°, such that the square cross-section of the handle element 14 is approximately parallel to the wall 17 in the exemplary arrangement shown in FIG. 6.

In this manner, the guide elements 20 are advantageously configured to control and hence constrain the position of the handle element 14 when the structure 15 is placed in a substantially fully retracted/closed position, to leave the leading end portion 11 of the bistable extendable members 1 uncoiled/unwrapped/extended, to reduce the rubbing risk of the mechanical fastenings 10 on the coiled portion 4 (see FIG. 7). This advantageously reduces the risk of damage to the bistable extendable members 1. Even if a user of the screen structure 15 were to inadvertently place the handle element 14 at one of the points 24a, 24b or 24c, the handle element 14 would be caused to automatically move towards the second portion 22 of the guide element 20 and thus into the parked position 14, i.e. to move from the position shown in FIG. 5B into the position shown in FIG. 5A, thus reducing the risk of damage/rubbing to the bistable extendable members 1.

Alternative shapes of the guide elements 20 are envisaged other than that shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, for example, as shown in FIGS. 8A, 8B and 8C. For example, as shown in FIG. 8A, the second portion 22 may be at least partially curved or angled. As another example, as shown in FIG. 88, a generally straight third portion 24 of the guide element 20 may be arranged between the curved portion 21 and the second portion 22. FIG. 8C shows that as another example, the second portion 22 may comprise a receiving portion 22r, such as a recess or channel, sized to correspond with the profile/shape of the handle element 14, to receive the handle element 14 therein when it is in the parked position 14p. Advantageously, this may further improve the ergonomics of the use of the handle element 14, to ensure that it is at a particular angle/orientation when in the parked position 14p, thus making it easier to hold and use. For example, in the example shown in FIG. 8C, the receiving portion 22r is generally rectangular, to correspond with the generally square cross-sectional profile of the handle element 14.

A screen system 25 comprising a screen structure 15 as described above shall now be discussed. However, it is to be understood that the screen system 25 may alternatively include any other suitable screen structure, for example, the exemplary screen structure 47 as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, or any other screen structure, which need not necessarily include one or more guide elements 20 as described above. That is, it is to be understood that the guide elements 20 described above, and the hinge arrangements 27 which shall be introduced and described below, may be used independently of one another. That is, they may be used in combination in the same screen structure or screen system, but they may also be used individually without the other in a particular screen structure or screen system.

As shown in FIGS. 6, 7, 9A and 98, the screen system 25 comprises the screen structure 15 and a first hinge arrangement 27a. The hinge arrangement 27a is configured to provide for the screen structure 15 to pivot about a second longitudinal axis 29 which is arranged generally parallel to and spaced apart from first longitudinal axis 19. For example, the screen structure 15 can thus be moved into and between one or more different pivotal positions about the second longitudinal axis 29, such as those shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B. The hinge arrangement 27a is arranged near an upper end of the screen structure 15, and as shown in FIGS. 10 and 15, a second hinge arrangement 27b, which is substantially identical to the first hinge arrangement 27a, is arranged near a lower end of the screen structure 15. In this manner, the first and second hinge arrangements 27a, 27b (which may hereinafter be referred to collectively as “hinge arrangements 27”) are arranged to be spaced apart from one another along the second longitudinal axis 29 (see FIG. 10). It is though alternatively envisaged that the screen system 25 may comprise just one hinge arrangement 27, are any other number of hinge arrangements 27, for example, three, four, five or more such hinge arrangements 27.

Referring now to FIG. 11, the hinge arrangements 27a and 27b each include a first bracket element 31 and a second bracket element 32 rotationally coupled to one another by one or more mechanical fixings, such as nuts and bolts, at a pivot point 28 arranged on the second longitudinal axis 29. The first bracket element 31 is coupled to the guide element 20 (see FIG. 6, for example) and the second bracket element 32 is configured to be coupled to a surface such as generally vertical wall 17 (see FIGS. 4A and 48, for example). In the examples shown, the first bracket element 31 is coupled to the guide element 20, although it is also envisaged that the first bracket element 31 may alternatively or in addition be coupled to another part of the screen structure 15, or to a different screen structure, for example a screen structure which does not include a guide element 20.

To provide for the screen structure 15 to be pivotable about the second longitudinal axis 29, the first bracket element 31 is pivotable relative to the second bracket element 32 at the pivot point 28, i.e. about the second longitudinal axis 29. This is provided by adjustment of the mechanical fixings (for example a nut and bolt arrangement 30, as shown in FIG. 12), for example, a loosening thereof, to permit for rotational movement of the first bracket element 31 about the second longitudinal axis 29. When it is desired to not utilise the pivoting ability of the hinge arrangements 27a, 27b, for example, when it is desired to lock or secure the screen structure 15 in a particular orientation, said mechanical fixings may be tightened to increase the amount of force required to rotate the first bracket element 31 about the second longitudinal axis 29, to increase the difficulty of pivoting the hinge arrangements 27a, 27b.

As shown in the exploded schematic view of FIG. 12, one or more friction elements 34, which in the example shown comprise washers, are arranged with one or more generally cylindrical spacing elements 35 between the first and second bracket elements 31 to 32 to provide further friction/resistance to the pivoting motion of the first bracket element 31 about the second longitudinal axis 29. In this manner, inadvertent swinging motion of the first bracket element and hence of the screen structure 15 can be controlled/avoided. In the example discussed therein, the first and second bracket elements 31, 32 comprise steel, and the washers 34 are nylon washers, to provide friction therebetween. Though, it is envisaged that any other suitable materials may be employed.

As shown in FIGS. 11 and 12, the first bracket element 31 is generally U shaped and comprises a central portion 31c arranged between two generally perpendicular flanged portions 31f. Similarly, the second bracket element 32 is generally U shaped and comprises a central portion 32c arranged between two generally perpendicular flanged portions 32h. The height 38 of the first bracket element 31 is less than the height 39 of the second bracket element 32, such that when the first and second bracket elements 31, 32 are assembled together (see FIG. 11), the flanged portions 31f are arranged to be received by/slotted inside the flanged portions 32f, to provide the pivotal connection therebetween. It is though envisaged that the first and second bracket elements 31, 32 may be shaped, sized and arranged relative to one another in any other way, for example, the height 38 may be configured to be greater than the height 39, such that the flanged portions 32f may be conversely configured to be received by/slotted inside the flanged portions 31f. Other shapes suitable for providing pivotal arrangements between the first and second bracket elements 31, 32 are also envisaged. One or more holes, 31h and 32h, are arranged on the first and bracket elements 31 and 32 respectively, for receiving mechanical fastening elements, for example one or more bolts or screw elements. It is though envisaged that any other suitable fastening or attachment means may be employed, for example, to attach the first bracket element 31 to the screen structure 15.

As shown in FIGS. 12, 13 and 14, the hinge arrangements 27a, 27b each further include a third bracket element 33 configured to slidably receive the second bracket element 32. The third bracket element 33 may be attached to a surface, such as a vertical wall 17 (see FIGS. 4A and 4B) via one or more mechanical fixings 37 (such as bolt or screw elements, see FIG. 14) arranged through one or more holes 33h thereon. However, it is also envisaged that the hinge arrangements 27a, 27b need not necessarily include the third bracket element 33, and that the second bracket element 32 may alternatively be directly fixed/attached to a surface, such as a vertical wall 17, without the third bracket element 33.

In the example shown, the third bracket element 33 has a rear surface 50 configured to contact said surface, for example to contact the vertical wall 17, in side regions 51 thereof. A central portion 52 of the third bracket element 33 is arranged to protrude forwards from the side regions 51, such that a rear surface 53 of the central portion 52 is spaced apart from the rear surface 50 by a distance 54, which is sized to be greater than or equal to the thickness 55 (see FIG. 11) of the central portion 32c of the second bracket element 32. In this manner, the central portion 52 of the third bracket element 33 provides for the second bracket element 32 to be slid and arranged between the third bracket element 33 and a surface such as a vertical wall 17.

The third bracket element 33 is generally U shaped and includes a receiving portion 33r defining a generally rectangular aperture into which the second bracket element 32 is configured to be slid, received and retained. The second bracket element 32 is configured to be retained in the third bracket element, because the width 32w (see FIG. 11) of the second bracket element 32 is greater than the width 33w (see FIG. 13) of the receiving portion 33r of the third bracket element 33.

As shown in FIG. 14, the third bracket element 33 can thus provide for improved ease of installation of the screen structure 15 to be mounted on a surface such as a vertical wall 17, by sliding/slotting the second bracket element 32 into place in the third bracket element 33 by moving the second bracket element 32 towards the third bracket element 33 in the downwards direction 36. Thus, the third bracket element 33 can provide for quick attachment and removal of the screen structure 15 to the wall 17.

Referring now to FIG. 15, the flanged portions 31f of the first bracket element 31 may be sized to provide a spacing 56 between the spine element 16 of the screen structure 15 and the second longitudinal axis 29. Providing such a spacing 56 may advantageously increase the range of pivotal motion of the screen structure 15 about the second longitudinal axis 29, which is highly desirable, as shall be discussed below in more detail. However, the larger the value of the spacing 56, the larger the gap 57 between the spine element 16 and the second longitudinal axis 29, and hence the greater the gap between the screen structure 15 and the vertical wall 17 or other surface to which the screen system 25 is mounted/attached. If the gap 57 is too large, this may be detrimental to the level of privacy and/or hygiene which the screen system 25 may be intended to provide in a given environment/situation. Therefore, the spacing 56 should be chosen to balance the effects of maximising the pivotal range of motion of the screen structure 15, whilst minimising the size of the gap 57. The spacing 56 may also be chosen to have a minimum value to account for any features such as cable trunkings, radiators and/or plug sockets protruding from the wall 17 or other surface. Additionally, the spacing 56 may be chosen to account for the minimum size of one or more tools, such as Allen keys, which may be used to assemble and install the screen system 25, to permit easy installation thereof.

As further shown in FIG. 15, in order to aid a user of the screen system 25 is extending and retracting the screen structure 15, a base element 58 may be attached to the handle element 14, to which are attached one or more castor wheels 59 configured to contact the ground/floor, for improved portability or the handle element 14.

The advantages of the hinge arrangements 27a, 27b shall now be discussed, with reference to FIGS. 16A and 16B.

Firstly, the hinge arrangements 27 may provide that the screen structure 15 can be attached to a discontinuous wall, for example a wall having a height that is shorter than the height of the screen structure 15 or of the spine element 16, or a wall including one or more cable runkings, windows, radiators and/or plug sockets protruding therefrom, to which a bracket or other mechanical attachment could not be attached. This is because the hinge arrangements 27a, 27b provide for a gap between the screen structure 15 and the surface (e.g. a vertical wall 27) to which it is to be attached, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 15.

To reduce unwanted vibrations in the screen structure 15 during use thereof, two hinge arrangements 27a, 27b can be placed to be spaced apart from one another by a distance that is greater than or equal to half the height of the screen structure 15. if the hinge arrangements 27a, 27b are too close together, unwanted vibration and/or wobbling and/or rocking may occur. The hinge arrangements 27a, 27b may be positioned along/relative to the longitudinal axes 19, 29 to define a gap 70 therebetween in which one or more of said cable trunkings, windows, radiators and/or plug sockets etc. may be arranged. Thus, mounting a screen structure 15 using said hinge arrangements 27 can provide that the screen structure 15 may be installed in a wider variety of locations, thus making it particularly suitable for architectural retrofitting projects. A third hinge arrangement (not shown) may be positioned between the first and second hinge arrangements 27a, 27b, to further reduce any unwanted vibration and/or wobbling and/or rocking of the screen structure 15 relative to the wall 17. The spine element 26 comprises a channel for receiving the hinge arrangements 27, such that the hinge arrangements are slidably received therein and can be positioned at any point along the length of said channel, to meet the structural requirements and limitations of a given surface to which the screen system 25 is to be mounted.

Secondly, as shown in FIG. 16A, when screen structure 15 (or any other screen structure, such as the screen structure 47) is in a partially or fully extended/open position (for example as shown in FIG. 4A), once in said position, the handle element 14 may be rotationally displaced by a user of the screen structure 15 relative to the first longitudinal axis 19 such that the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 may be moved from side to side into one or more different positions, such that the angle at which/plane along which said bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 are arranged to extend may be changed. Exemplary such angular positions 60a, 60b, 60c, 60d, which all define planes which are perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis 19, and along which the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 may be extended/pulled out, are shown in FIG. 16A.

Still referring to FIG. 16A, for a given screen structure 15, there is a range of angles, a, through which the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 may be moved from side to side (for example, such range encompassing angular positions exemplary positions 60a, 60b, 60c and 60d, in the example shown in FIG. 16A), once they have already been pulled out/extended. Similarly, there is a range of angles, β, in which the handle element 14, and hence also the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44, may be pulled out/extended safely, without a significant risk of damage to the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b during said pulling/extending motion, and within which a user of the screen structure 15 can have a high level of confidence that the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b will be coiled up properly and in the correct orientation. If a user were to try to push in/retract the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 in a direction/plane within the angular range θ (with θ being equal to α minus β), for example along direction/plane 60a, then the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b, and the panel 44 would not coil/roll up nicely, and this would risk the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b being pushed and/or kinked outwards, thus risking damage to the screen structure 15.

Thus, the range of angles of which the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 can be safely pulled out/extended/rotated into is limited by α and β. For example, for an exemplary screen structure, the value of α may be approximately 100°, meaning that panel 44 orientations outside of that angular range would not be possible, for a screen structure 15 having a fixed pivotal/rotational position, for example for a screen structure fixed to a wall with no hinge arrangement 27.

In order to help define the safe angular ranges α and/or β, and to constrain the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 within either or both of said angular ranges, the upper element 20a may comprise a bumper element 26 (see FIG. 6) configured to engage or bear against or otherwise constrain at least a portion of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and/or at least a portion of the handle element 14 during retraction of the screen structure 15.

The bumper element 26 can also advantageously help the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b to retract in and coil inwards properly and in the correct orientation, in case a user of the screen structure 15 aggressively pushes in the handle element 14 with an inadvertently large force, too quickly, and/or at an angle outside the angular range β. Furthermore, the bumper element 26 can help the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b to retract in and coil inwards properly and in the correct orientation, should there be one or more stiff portions in either or both of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b. Such stiff portions may occur when the screen structure 15 has been left in the open/extended/pulled out position over a long period of time, since in such a position, the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b can be prone to undergo creep, thus becoming increasingly stiff with time. In such a case, the extended portions of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b (see FIG. 1C) may be reluctant to coil back up into the their coiled/retracted state (see FIG. 1B), which would make it increasingly difficult or impossible to push the handle element 14 inwards to close/retract the screen structure 15. The bumper element 26 can thereby press/hit against the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b to encourage any stiff extended portions of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b to go back into their coiled/rolled up bistable state.

The screen structure 15 may further include a casing element (not shown), for example a casing element similar to the support 43b shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, arranged to at least partially enclose the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44. Any such casing element should be sized and shaped to reduce the risk of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b scraping and/or rubbing thereon during extension and retraction of the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 within the angular ranges α and β, and to maximise the possible values of the angular ranges α and β. For example, a more enclosed casing may result in smaller possible values α and β. While in the examples shown, the screen structure 15 includes guide elements 20 and the bumper element 26 is a part of the guide elements 20, it is also envisaged that the screen structure may not include guide elements 20, and/or that the casing element (not shown) or any other structural element of a given screen structure may comprise the bumper element 26 instead.

Referring back to FIG. 16A, the hinge arrangements 27a, 27b advantageously provide that the bistable extendable members 1 and the panel 4 may be extended at angles/in planes which are outside the range of angles α, by displacing/shifting the range α. This can be understood by referring to FIG. 16B. If a user wanted to extend/pull out the screen structure 15 along a direction/position 61 which was outside the range α and therefore not possible at the orientation of the screen structure 15 relative to the vertical wall 17 shown in FIG. 168, then the user could pivot the whole screen structure 15 in the direction 62 about the second longitudinal axis 29, and thus relative to the vertical wall 17, to displace/shift the range α, so that it would then be possible to extend/pull out the screen structure 15 along the direction/position 61 (wherein the direction/position 61 is defined angularly relative to the relatively fixed vertical wall 17). For example, to achieve different extended/pull out panel 44 orientations/angles, the hinge arrangements 27 could be used to pivot the screen structure 15 by an angle of approximately 40° to shift the range α from approximately 0° to 100° to approximately 40° to 140°, or by an angle of approximately 80° to shift the range α from approximately 0° to 100° to approximately 80° to 180°.

This is also illustrated in FIG. 17, which shows a plan view of four similar screen structures 15a, 15b, 15c and 15d and corresponding hinge arrangements 27 arranged in different pivotal orientations relative to a vertical wall 17. For example, the screen structures 15b and 15c are arranged at different angles relative to a straight/flat portion of the vertical wall 17, so different ranges of motion of pulling/extension are possible—i.e. the ranges of a and 0 are displaced/shifted.

The screen structures 15a and 15d are arranged near or on corner portions 63 of the vertical wall 17, and thus compared with the screen structures 15b, 15c, whose ranges of pivotal motion by the hinge arrangements 27 are limited to a maximum of 180° due to the straight/flat shape of the vertical wall 17 in the region thereof, the screen structures 15a and 15d can be pivoted into a broader range of angles, i.e. up to a maximum of 270°, due to the right angled shape of the corner portions 63. Thus, when mounting/attaching the screen system 25 to a corner portion 63 of a wall 17, a broader range of motion for where the values of α and β can be shifted to is achievable, thus the potential range of angles/planes in which the bistable extendable members 1a, 1b and the panel 44 can be extended/pulled out along is much greater.

The screen system 25 may even be mounted to a post element 64, about which the screen structure 15 may be moved through a much larger range of pivotal angles relative thereto compared with a flat or corner wall 17, for example into positions 65 or 66, as shown in FIG. 18. In this manner, an even broader range of motion for where the values of a and s can be shifted to is achievable, thus a range of up to 360° of where the screen structure 15a, 15b can be extended/pulled out along can be achieved, thus resulting in a much more adaptable and flexible screen system 25.

Accordingly, one or more hinge arrangements 17 may be used in combination with the screen structure 15, or with any other screen structure, to advantageously increase the range of angles/directions/planes along which said screen structure may be used. This is achieved by increasing the range of angles/directions/planes along which said screen structure can be moved into once already extended/pulled out/opened, and by increasing the range of angles/directions/planes along which said screen structure can be safely pushed in/retracted/closed, without risking damage to the screen structure, and in particular, to the bistable extendable members 1. The adaptability and flexibility of the screen structure are thereby improved, thus increasing the range of environments and circumstances in which it may be employed, and making in particularly suitable for architectural retrofitting projects. The lifetime of the screen structure product is thereby also increased, due to the reduced risk of damage to the bistable extendable members 1.

Various modifications may be made to the described embodiment(s) without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims.

SCREEN SYSTEM

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