Technical Field
The present disclosure relates generally to reconfigurable partition systems, and more particularly, to reconfigurable modular wall and ceiling systems comprising reconfigurable modules, components, and/or design elements, and to methods of assembling, (re)configuring, and/or using the same.
Background and Relevant Art
Modular wall systems, or dividers as they are sometimes called, are used most commonly in an office environment to separate work areas and to give people privacy or aesthetics where permanent walls are lacking, undesirable, or impractical. Some previous wall systems are difficult to (re)configure or move without significant amounts of labor and dislocation. For instance, most systems lack the flexibility to quickly and simply change the ordering, orientation, height, or relationship between adjacent or even distal modular wall components in order to change the aesthetics or functionality of an existing wall. Other systems lack the flexibility to use or substitute different types of modular units, tiles, or panels at a designated location or to replace a module in the middle of a wall without taking apart the entire wall. For instance, in some existing modular wall systems, the connection or relationship between a solid wall module and an adjacent glass wall module cannot be altered without removing and replacing both modules. This permanent relationship between adjacent modules may require every possible combination of adjacent relationship to be conceived and manufactured ahead of time.
Removing and replacing multiple modules to achieve a desired aesthetic can be cost and/or time prohibitive in some cases. Thus, existing wall systems may limit a user's ability to reconfigure, reorient, rearrange, and/or replace one or more modules of the wall system without laborious alterations such as, for example: (1) redesigning the entire wall system; (2) changing, altering, and/or swapping connection components; (3) disassembling the entire wall and/or large (sub)section(s) thereof; and/or (4) requiring additional adapters, components, and/or compatibility elements to ensure proper alignment and/or attachment of the modules.
There also is a need to be able to use the same wall system concepts, components, and connection interface(s) in commercial, residential, industrial and other applications without a system overhaul. Accordingly, there are a number of disadvantages in conventional wall systems that can be addressed.
Implementations of the present disclosure are generally related to and/or address one or more of the foregoing or other problems in the art with partition systems and apparatus, and methods for implementing the same. More specifically, implementations of the present disclosure are directed toward systems and apparatus for implementing a reconfigurable modular wall or ceiling assembly comprising reconfigurable modules, components, and/or design elements, and methods for assembling, (re)configuring, and/or using the same. Some implementations involve wall or ceiling systems having a plurality of interchangeable wall or ceiling modules, wherein different types of wall or ceiling modules have and/or are associated with connection details or components of different shapes and/or types. Certain implementations relate to systems, methods, and apparatus for connecting, securing, and/or attaching wall or ceiling modules in a plurality of configurations by means of compatible connection components and/or a common or universal connection interface component.
Additional features and advantages of exemplary implementations of the disclosure will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations. The features and advantages of such implementations may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. These and other features will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of such exemplary implementations as set forth hereinafter.
In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and other advantages and features of the invention can be obtained, a more particular description of the disclosure briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific implementations and/or embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawings depict only typical implementations and/or embodiments of the disclosure and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
Before describing example implementations in detail, it is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to parameters of the particularly exemplified systems, methods, apparatus, products, processes, compositions, and/or kits, which may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is only for the purpose of describing particular implementations of the present disclosure, and is not necessarily intended to limit the scope of the disclosure and/or invention in any manner. Thus, while the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to specific configurations, the descriptions are illustrative only and are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the claimed invention. For instance, certain implementations may include fewer or additional components than those illustrated in the accompanying drawings and/or described in the written description. Furthermore, various modifications can be made to the illustrated configurations without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Thus, while various aspects, embodiments, and/or implementations of the invention are described and/or disclosed herein, other aspects, implementations, and embodiments are also contemplated.
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the present disclosure pertains. While a number of methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice of the present disclosure, only certain exemplary materials and methods are described herein.
Various aspects of the present disclosure, including devices, systems, methods, etc., may be illustrated with reference to one or more exemplary implementations. As used herein, the term “exemplary” means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations disclosed herein. In addition, reference to an “implementation” of the present disclosure or invention includes a specific reference to one or more embodiments thereof, and vice versa, and is intended to provide illustrative examples without limiting the scope of the invention, which is indicated by the appended claims rather than by the following description.
It will be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to a “tile” includes one, two, or more tiles. Similarly, reference to a plurality of referents should be interpreted as comprising a single referent and/or a plurality of referents unless the content and/or context clearly dictate otherwise. Thus, reference to “tiles” does not necessarily require a plurality of such tiles. Instead, it will be appreciated that independent of conjugation; one or more tiles are contemplated herein.
As used throughout this application the words “can” and “may” are used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning having the potential to), rather than the mandatory sense (i.e., meaning must). Additionally, the terms “including,” “having,” “involving,” “containing,” “characterized by,” variants thereof (e.g., “includes,” “has,” and “involves,” “contains,” etc.), and similar terms as used herein, including the claims, shall be inclusive and/or open-ended, shall have the same meaning as the word “comprising” and variants thereof (e.g., “comprise” and “comprises”), and do not exclude additional, un-recited elements or method steps, illustratively.
Various aspects of the present disclosure can be illustrated by describing components that are coupled, attached, connected, and/or joined together. As used herein, the terms “coupled”, “attached”, “connected,” and/or “joined” are used to indicate either a direct connection between two components or, where appropriate, an indirect connection to one another through intervening or intermediate components. In contrast, when a component is referred to as being “directly coupled”, “directly attached”, “directly connected,” and/or “directly joined” to another component, no intervening elements are present or contemplated. Thus, as used herein, the terms “connection,” “connected,” and the like do not necessarily imply direct contact between the two or more elements.
As used herein, directional and/or arbitrary terms, such as “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “up,” “down,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” “internal,” “external,” “interior,” “exterior,” “proximal,” “distal” and the like can be used solely to indicate relative directions and/or orientations and may not be otherwise intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, including the specification, invention, and/or claims.
Where possible, like numbering of elements have been used in various figures. Furthermore, alternative configurations of a particular element may each include separate letters appended to the element number. Accordingly, an appended letter can be used to designate an alternative design, structure, function, implementation, and/or embodiment of an element or feature without an appended letter. Similarly, multiple instances of an element and/or sub-elements of a parent element may each include separate letters appended to the element number. In each case, the element label may be used without an appended letter to generally refer to instances of the element or any one of the alternative elements. Element labels including an appended letter can be used to refer to a specific instance of the element or to distinguish or draw attention to multiple uses of the element. However, element labels including an appended letter are not meant to be limited to the specific and/or particular implementation(s) in which they are illustrated. In other words, reference to a specific feature in relation to one implementation and/or embodiment should not be construed as being limited to applications only within said implementation.
It will also be appreciated that where a range a values (e.g., less than, greater than, at least, between, and/or up to a certain value, and/or between two recited values) is disclosed or recited, any specific value or range of values falling within the disclosed range of values is likewise disclosed and contemplated herein. Thus, disclosure of an illustrative measurement or distance less than or equal to about 10 units or between 0 and 10 units includes, illustratively, a specific disclosure of: (i) a measurement of 9 units, 5 units, 1 units, or any other value between 0 and 10 units, including 0 units and/or 10 units; and/or (ii) a measurement between 9 units and 1 units, between 8 units and 2 units, between 6 units and 4 units, and/or any other range of values between 0 and 10 units.
It will be appreciated that the features, components, member, and/or elements described herein can be equally applicable to modular walls and/or wall systems, ceiling and/or ceiling systems, and/or other partitions or dividers. In at least one implementation, features, components, member, and/or elements described herein can be applicable to floors and/or floor systems. For ease in presenting implementations of the present disclosure, reference may be made, illustratively, to a modular wall or modular ceiling, etc. However, it is understood that reference to a modular structure of a specific type does not exclude application of the described features, components, member, and/or elements to the specific modular structure. Thus, while some of the systems described herein refer to reconfigurable wall systems, it will be appreciated that such description is merely exemplary and that such systems can be used to form other types of partitions. For instance, the reconfigurable wall systems described herein in detail can be positioned horizontally to form a ceiling.
It is also understood that various implementations described herein can be utilized in combination with any other implementation described or disclosed, without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, products, members, elements, devices, apparatus, systems, methods, processes, compositions, and/or kits according to certain implementations of the present disclosure can include, incorporate, or otherwise comprise properties, features, components, members, elements, steps, and/or the like described in other implementations (including systems, methods, apparatus, and/or the like) disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, reference to a specific feature in relation to one implementation should not be construed as being limited to applications only within said implementation.
All publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein, whether supra or infra, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.
The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to be used to limit the scope of the description or the claims. To facilitate understanding, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like elements common to the figures.
Accordingly, various implementations of the present disclosure include a reconfigurable modular partition system having a plurality of reconfigurable modules, components, and/or design elements configured for interchangeable attachment one to another. In particular, implementations include a reconfigurable modular wall or ceiling system having different connection details for common connection of adjacent sections. Certain implementations include differently shaped connection details or components and/or connection interface components (e.g., at a common interface). For instance, certain implementations include a plurality of different connection components respectively having one or more common, universal, and/or compatible connection interfaces and/or connection interface elements or members. Such connection components can allow a user to select a desired module or display element without regard to compatibility concerns as each module and/or connection component(s) thereof are formed, extruded, and/or manufactured so as to be compatible with any other module and/or connection component.
Certain implementations, therefore, can allow a user to reconfigure, reorient, rearrange, and/or replace one or more modules of a wall system without laborious alterations such as, for example: (1) redesigning the entire wall system; (2) changing, altering, and/or swapping connection components; (3) disassembling the entire wall and/or large (sub)section(s) thereof; and/or (4) requiring additional adapters, components, and/or compatibility elements to ensure proper alignment and/or attachment of the modules. For instance, some implementations include a “checker-board” or other style modular wall comprising a plurality of vertically and horizontally arranged modules, wherein any two modules, regardless of position on the checker-board or other design, can be swapped, rearranged, reoriented, or otherwise reconfigured without one or more of the aforementioned or other alterations or limitations.
Likewise, some implementations can allow for additional modules to be added to the wall system (e.g., in a vertical and/or horizontal direction) to increase the height or width of the wall system without the requirement of one or more of the aforementioned or other alterations. Similarly, implementations may allow for one or more modules to be removed from a wall system (e.g., in a vertical and/or horizontal direction) to decrease the height or width of the wall system without the requirement of one or more of the aforementioned or other alterations or limitations. Thus, implementations of the present disclosure can provide a universally compatible, reconfigurable modular wall system that does not require a pre-designed frame to be constructed prior to assembly of the wall and/or does not require a redesigned frame or subunit in order to change, alter, or otherwise reconfigure the wall or a portion thereof.
As will be discussed in further detail below, this universal compatibility can permit the removal, addition, replacement, etc. of any wall module or unit with another module or unit without necessarily replacing one or more of the connection components associated with adjacent module(s) or unit(s). Accordingly, the intermediate glass wall module in a solid wall—glass wall—solid wall configuration or relationship can be replaced with a solid wall module to form a solid wall—solid wall—solid wall configuration or relationship without changing or replacing one or more of the connection components associated with the peripheral solid wall modules. Instead, the connection components associated with the peripheral solid wall modules are universally compatible with the connection components associated with the replaced glass wall module, as well as the replacing solid wall module.
Implementations of the present disclosure can also include providing, applying, attaching, inserting, and/or otherwise implementing a common, universal, or multi-compatible connection interface component for securing a plurality of connection components together in a desired configuration, orientation, and/or arrangement. For instance, in some exemplary implementations, a universal connection interface component can have a substantially X-shaped, Y-shaped, V-shaped, U-shaped, T-shaped, I-shaped, H-shaped, or other cross-section and/or can be configured to secure two connection components together at an interface. Specifically, the connection interface component can be inserted, slid, clipped, snapped, or otherwise positioned into one or more aligned, corresponding, and/or compatible attachment interfaces and/or channels in or of the connection component(s) and/or formed at the interface therebetween. For instance, each connection component can include one, two, or more attachment interface channels extending longitudinally at least partially between one end of the connection component and another and/or opposite end of the connection component. Importantly, aligning such attachment interface channels in two or more connection components and/or positioning two or more connection components such that corresponding attachment interface channels are aligned can form a joint and/or shared channel in which a connection interface component can be inserted or otherwise positioned to reversibly and/or selectively secure the connection components together.
It will be appreciated that while exemplary X-shaped, Y-shaped, V-shaped, U-shaped, T-shaped, and I-shaped cross-sections are substantially symmetrical across at least one axis, that such a configuration is not necessary in every implementation of the present disclosure. For instance, as will be discussed in further detail below, an asymmetrical (universal) connection interface component can permit the angling and/or curvature of a modular wall in at least one direction in some implementations.
Reconfiguration of and/or methods of reconfiguring a modular wall system can, therefore, comprise, involve, and/or include: (1) disengaging (e.g., slidedly or otherwise removing) one or more connection interface components from the corresponding attachment interface channels of the connection component(s) (and/or joint or shared channel formed thereby) to release, disconnect, detach, unfasten, or otherwise enable movement of one or more modules from the wall system; (2) removing, reorienting, replacing, and/or reorganizing one or more unsecured modules; (3) aligning corresponding attachment interface channels of the connection component(s) of adjacent modules (to form a joint or shared channel); and/or (4) re-engaging (e.g., slidedly or otherwise positioning) one or more connection interface components into the corresponding attachment interface channels of the connection component(s) (and/or joint or shared channel formed thereby) to secure, attach, connect, or otherwise assemble one or more modules to the wall system.
Various implementations of the present disclosure will now be discussed in detail with reference to the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical implementations of the disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope.
Reconfigurable Wall Systems
In certain implementations, modules 102 can be about 30.5 cm tall and about 30.5 cm wide. However, modules 102 can be any suitable size. For instance, modules 102 can be greater than, less than, up to, between, equal to, or about 10 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 35 cm, 45 cm, 60 cm, or more in length and/or width. Modules 102 can also have a standard thickness greater than, less than, up to, between, equal to, or about 1 cm, 2.5 cm, 5 cm, 7.5 cm, 10 cm, 12.5 cm, 15 cm, 18 cm, 20 cm, 22 cm, 25 cm, 28 cm, 30 cm, or more. Other standard sizes, measurements, and/or standards can also or alternatively be applied and/or adhered to in some implementations.
In some implementations, each module 102 is substantially similar and/or identical in size, shape, and/or dimension(s). In other implementations, modules 102 can comprise different sizes, shapes, and/or dimensions. For instance, a first module 102 can be the size and/or shape of two smaller modules placed adjacent and/or connected to one another. Modules 102 can comprise and/or be a square, rectangle, and/or any other suitable (geometric or other) shape.
One will appreciate that a wall system 100 according to various implementations of the present disclosure can be oriented in any suitable orientation, including diagonal, vertical or substantially vertical, and/or horizontal or substantially horizontal, wherein the term “substantially” indicates allowable, acceptable, or other deviation(s) from a perfect or other precise orientation. For instance, a substantially vertical orientation can account for small imperfections or errors in the assembly, construction, and/or formation of an upright divider or other wall system 100, including assembling, mounting, constructing, or otherwise assembling the wall system 100. Where appropriate, “substantially” can imply less than 10%, less than 1%, less than 0.1%, or less than 0.01% variability or error relative to a perfect or precise orientation. For instance, a 1% error in vertical orientations (i.e., a 3.6°, 1.8°, or 0.9° deviation) can be substantially vertically oriented in certain implementations. Thus, diagonal orientations comprise those orientations that are neither vertical nor substantially vertical, nor horizontal nor substantially horizontal.
Furthermore, the plurality of wall modules 102 can be arrangeable and/or re-arrangeable into a plurality of configurations resulting in a wall 100 or other barrier, divide, structure or structural component. For instance, the relative positions of wall modules 102b and 102c can be switched to allow for versatility in aesthetic or other design properties. Indeed, the design and/or components of reconfigurable wall system 100 can allow for any module 102 to be placed, positioned, secured, and/or arranged in any position, orientation, and/or configuration available within system 100. For instance, a first module 102 can be interchangeable, re-arrangeable, and/or replaceable by or with any other module 102.
In some implementations, modules 102 can be shuffled, organized, ordered, and/or arranged in a plurality of vertical and/or horizontal relationships. In at least one implementation, such rearrangement can be made without disassembling the entire wall system 100 and/or certain component(s) thereof. For instance, the vertical relationship between two vertically adjacent modules 102 can be rearranged without changing, disassembling, or otherwise affecting the assembly of modules 102 horizontally or vertically adjacent thereto. For instance, as discussed in further detail below, a module 102 disposed in any position within system 100 can be exchanged for another module 102 without also exchanging one or more of the connection components associated with module(s) 102 adjacent to the position of the exchanged module 102.
In some implementations, modules 102 can be arranged, organized, and/or configured into subunits 112 of the reconfigurable wall system 100. For instance, vertical subunit 112a can include four modules 102 configured and/or arranged in a vertical relationship. One will appreciate, however, that subunits 112 and/or modules 102 thereof can comprise and/or be arranged horizontally, diagonally, and/or in any other suitable orientation, shape and/or design configuration. In addition, subunits 112 can include 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, or more modules 102 arranged in any suitable orientation or relationship. For instance, in at least one implementation, subunit 112 can comprise two modules 102 disposed vertically or horizontally (side-by-side). Alternatively, subunit 112 can comprise two upper modules 102 disposed side-by-side and connected to two lower modules 102 disposed side-by-side (e.g., creating a 2×2 modular subunit 112).
As illustrated in
In addition, as discussed further herein, connection components 104 may allow for one or more of the modules 102 to be selectively added or removed from the wall system 100 to adjust the height of the wall 100. In some implementations, connection components 104 may allow for one or more of the modules 102 in the middle of the wall 100 to be removed from the wall 100 without disassembling the surrounding portions of the wall 100 in order to replace the middle module(s) 102 or to adjust the height or width of the wall 100. Thus, the height of the wall can be altered by adding or removing modules from interior, central, and/or middle (e.g., non-edge) positions, as opposed to outer, exterior, and/or edge-positioned modules. The width and/or length of wall system 100 can be similarly altered and/or adjusted.
As indicated above, in certain implementations, modules 102 can be about 30.5 cm tall and about 30.5 cm wide. Thus, subunit(s) 112 can be about 30.5 cm wide and about 1.22 meters tall. However, because modules 102 can be any suitable size, subunits 112 can vary widely from one implementation to another. For instance, subunit(s) 112 can be greater than, less than, up to, between, equal to, or about 10 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 35 cm, 45 cm, 60 cm, or more and/or any multiple thereof in length and/or width.
Subunits 112 can also have a standard thickness greater than, less than, between, equal to, or about 1 cm, 2.5 cm, 5 cm, 7.5 cm, 10 cm, 12.5 cm, 15 cm, 18 cm, 20 cm, 22 cm, 25 cm, 28 cm, 30 cm, or more. Other standard sizes, measurements, and/or standards can also or alternatively be applied and/or adhered to in some implementations. In some implementations, each subunit 112 is substantially similar and/or identical in size, shape, and/or dimension(s). In other implementations, subunits 112 can comprise different sizes, shapes, and/or dimensions. For instance, a first subunit 112 can be the size and/or shape of two smaller modules placed adjacent and/or connected to one another. Subunits 112 can also comprise and/or be a square, rectangle, and/or any other suitable (geometric or other) shape.
Connection component(s) 104 can comprise an elongated, structurally rigid or semi-rigid component substantially similar in length to the edge length of module 102. Accordingly, connection component(s) 104 can also comprise any suitable size, shape, and/or other measurement or feature suitable to implementations thereof. For instance, connection component 104 can be greater than, less than, up to, between, equal to, or about 10 cm, 20 cm, 25 cm, 35 cm, 45 cm, 60 cm, 100 cm, 120 cm, 122 cm, or more in longitudinal length. By way of illustration, certain connection component(s) 104 can have a height and/or thickness of greater than, less than, up to, between, equal to, or about 1 cm, 2.5 cm, 5 cm, 7.5 cm, 10 cm, 12.5 cm, 15 cm, 18 cm, 20 cm, 22 cm, 25 cm, 28 cm, 30 cm, or more in a first and/or second direction. For instance, connection component(s) 104 can be approximately 2 cm in a first (e.g., vertical) direction and/or approximately 10 cm in a second (e.g., horizontal) direction. Other connection component(s) 104 can be oppositely and/or otherwise configured.
Connection component(s) 104 can comprise a rigid or semi-rigid, resilient material. For instance, connection component 104 (and/or other components of system 100) can comprise aluminum, steel, thermoplastic (e.g., reinforced thermoplastic). More specifically, connection component 104 (and/or other components of system 100) can comprise an extruded, die-cast, injection-molded, milled, manufactured, fabricated or otherwise formed structural component. A manufacturer can fabricate, for instance, an aluminum extrusion that has any desired profile, which can create attributes, functionality, utility, and structural properties unique to each connection component 104. Importantly, each connection component 104 can be fabricated so as to be universally connectable to and/or compatible with any other connection component 104. Other materials can also be used to form connection component 104 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For instance, connection component 104 can comprise wood, stone, or any other natural or synthetic material suitable for use therein.
Modules 102 can also include and/or be clad with one or more tiles 106, such as a (solid) wall panel, glass pane, functional component, and/or display member. Tiles 106 can comprise and/or be made of wood, plastic, metal, fabric, textile, fiber, fiberglass, plaster, drywall, glass, resin, and/or other suitable material without departing from the scope of this disclosure. In some implementations, a tile can comprise a plurality of such materials. In addition, a plurality of different types of tiles can be arranged in a desired fashion to achieve a desired aesthetic or other purpose. For instance, reconfigurable wall system 100 and/or subunit(s) 112 thereof can include a plurality of modules 102 respectively having a combination of glass and wall tiles 106 arranged such that a consistent, random, alternating, and/or patterned (regular or irregular) configuration is displayed on a viewing surface or face thereof. As illustrated in
As indicated above, in at least one implementation, tile 106 can comprise and/or include a functional component or cassette configured to provide additional utility to the wall system 100. Exemplary functional components, including those known in the art, include but are not limited to video monitors, audio speakers, shelves, mounting elements, control panels, access ports, outlets, and other utility-providing members. Functional components can also provide (additional) aesthetic properties and/or qualities without departing from the scope of this disclosure. For instance, tile 106 can comprise artwork or a design feature having a particular color, pattern, texture, etc. thereon. In certain implementations, tile 106 can comprise a (picture) frame and/or matting configured to receive an insert.
A functional component can be at least partially housed within, mounted onto, attached to, or otherwise received by at least a portion of tile 106 and/or module 102 in some implementations. For instance, in at least one implementation, a functional component (e.g., video monitor) can be associated with a glass tile 106a such that the functional component can be viewed through the glass tile 106a. In an alternative implementation, the functional component can be received by a wall tile 106b. For instance, the functional component can be mounted, attached, or connected to, or otherwise associated with the exterior surface of a solid or other wall tile 106b.
The functional component can also (or alternatively) be placed and/or secured within an opening, aperture, void, hollow, recess, groove, channel, or other area or region of the tile 106 configured to receive the functional component therein. For instance, a wall tile 106b can comprise an opening or recess therein or area into which the functional component can be placed, mounted, and/or secured such that the functional component can be displayed and/or accessible on or within wall tile 106b of module 102c. Furthermore, a functional component can, in certain implementations, replace, provide, and/or behave as a tile 106. For instance, the functional component itself, or component(s) thereof, can be attached directly or indirectly to module 102, wall system 100, and/or component(s) thereof (e.g., by fitting such functional component with one or more connection component(s) 104).
As discussed in further detail below, in some implementations, a tile 106 can be mounted, secured, and/or attached to an outer edge or component of a module 102 and/or connection component(s) 104 thereof. In some implementations, tiles 106 can be mounted, secured, and/or attached to both or opposing outer edges or components of a module 102 and/or connection component(s) 104 thereof. For instance, tiles 106 can be mounted, secured, and/or attached to both or opposing outer terminal edges of opposing connection components 104. Similarly, tiles 106 can be mounted, secured, and/or attached to both or opposing outer sides of a single connection component 104.
Alternatively and/or additionally, one or more tiles 106 can be mounted, secured, and/or attached to one or more inner or outer components and/or within one or more inner or outer mounting channels and/or tile receiving elements of a module 102 and/or connection component(s) 104 thereof. For instance, in at least one implementation, a glass tile 106a can be mounted within respective inner channels of upper and/or lower connection components 104 of (each) module 102a that includes a glass tile 106a. Wall tiles 106b can also be mounted within inner channels of upper and/or lower connection components 104. The inner and/or outer channel(s) can be positioned (centrally or peripherally) along connection component 104. Likewise, a wall tile 106b can be mounted to the respective outer edges of upper and/or lower connection components 104 of (each) module 102c that includes a wall tile 106b. Glass tiles 106a can also be mounted to outer edges in some implementations.
A module 102 can comprise a plurality of tiles 106. For instance, module 102c can comprise an outer or inner wall tile 106b and an inner or outer glass tile 106a (not shown). In some implementations, an outer glass tile 106a can transparently or translucently cover an inner wall tile 106b (or functional component thereof) to provide a desired aesthetic. Similarly, a module can comprise opposing tiles 106 in certain implementations. For instance, a module can comprise opposing wall tiles 106b, glass tiles 106a, or any suitable combination thereof, including stacked layers or multiple tiles on one or more sides or portions of module 102. Wall tiles 106b and glass tiles 106a can also comprise a texturing, finish, or other surface detail as necessary to create a desired aesthetic.
In one or more implementations, reconfigurable wall system 100, or a module 102 or connection components 104 thereof configured to receive a wall tile 106b includes one or more tile attachment elements (see e.g., tile attachment element 214 of
Reconfigurable wall system 100 can also include one or more frame elements 108. In some implementations, frame elements 108 are configured to provide support, structure, connection, or other attribute(s) to the wall system 100 and/or modules 102 or multi-module subunits 112 thereof. For instance, a first frame element 108a can be configured to provide internal structure, support, and/or rigidity to the wall system 100 and/or module(s) 102 or subunit(s) 112 thereof and/or to connect adjacent modular subunits 112, such as subunits 112a and 112b. One or more additional frame elements 108, such as frame elements 108b and 108c, can be configured to surround, support, and/or define the outer perimeter of the wall system 100 and/or module(s) or subunit(s) thereof.
In at least one implementation, reconfigurable wall system 100 includes at least one vertical frame element 108a and/or at least one horizontal frame element 108c. Vertical frame element(s) 108a can divide, separate, support, and/or provide structure to or form one or more subunits 112 and/or module(s) 102 thereof. For instance, vertical frame element(s) 108a can span the height of wall system 100 and/or provide separation and/or support between subunits 112a and 112b. Vertical frame element(s) 108b can also or alternatively provide an end cap for reconfigurable wall system 100 or a subunit 108 and/or modules 102 thereof.
In an alternative implementation, one or more modules 102 can include at least one vertical frame element 108. For instance, one or more modules 102 can include a first vertical frame element 108a disposed on a first side thereof and a second vertical frame element 108b disposed on a second side thereof. First and/or second vertical frame elements 108 can extend the height of module 102 in some implementations. Module 102 can also include an upper connection component 104 and a lower connection component 104. Thus, module 102 can comprise a box-frame and/or structurally-independent unit configured to be connected and/or attached to one or more adjacent modules 102 (e.g., without any intervening frame component). In other implementations, however, a vertical frame element 108 can be disposed between subunits 112 and/or modules 102 (including optional vertical frame element(s) 108 thereof).
As illustrated in
Adjacent connection components 104 can be selectively and/or reversibly secured one to another by means of one or more connection interface components (see e.g., connection interface component 726 of
In at least one implementation, frame element 108 can comprise or be a connection component 104. For instance, vertical frame component 108a and/or 108b can comprise vertically-oriented connection component(s) 104, having one or more attributes thereof (described above). Thus, frame elements 108 can be adapted for universal compatibility. Similarly, frame elements 108 can be adapted or configured with one or more compatible attachment interfaces and/or channels. Likewise, frame elements 108 can be adapted or configured to receive one or more connection interface components (e.g., for securing adjacent modules 102 or frame elements 108 thereof).
As will be appreciated, in at least one implementation, a reconfigurable wall system 100 includes two modules 102 placed adjacent and connected to one another via one or more connection components 104. For instance, a first module 102, which includes at least one tile having an upper connection component 104 and a lower connection component 104 attached thereto, can be connected to a second module 102 comprising at least one tile 106 having an upper connection component 104 and a lower connection component 104 attached thereto. The connected first and second modules 102 can be supported on one or more sides by at least one frame element 108. Frame element(s) 108 can surround the connected first and second modules 102 entirely or partially, or otherwise connect thereto. Alternative, each module 102 can comprise opposing vertical frame elements 108 connected to the at least one tile 106.
Thus, it will be appreciated that a module 102 according to implementations of the present disclosure can comprise a variety of configurations. For instance, as indicated above, a module 102 can include at least one tile 106 clad between upper and lower connection components 104. Thus, modules 102 can be stacked atop one another in a vertical relationship. Alternatively, a module 102 can include at least one tile 106 clad between left and right connection components 104. Thus, modules 102 can be placed beside each other in a horizontal relationship. Regardless, one or more frame elements 108a can be disposed between adjacent modules in certain implementations. Accordingly, wall system 100 can comprise a plurality of modules 102 that are universally interchangeable in their vertical and/or horizontal position, orientation, and/or relationship.
In an alternative implementation, a module 102 can comprise an arrangement of connection components 104 with or without a tile attached thereto. For instance, as illustrated in
Therefore, in at least one implementation, the connection and/or attachment of a plurality of connection components 104, together with one or more optional frame elements 108, forms a modular wall frame 200. Each module 102 of frame 200 can comprise at least one of an upper connection component 104 and/or a lower connection component 104. Thus, a module 102 can comprise two connection components 104 separated by a distance, in certain implementations. In addition, a module 102 can comprise upper and lower connection components 104 and opposing vertical frame elements 108, forming an independent module adapted and/or configured for attachment (or to be attached) vertically and/or horizontally to adjacent module(s) 102. Alternatively, a module 102 can comprise two connection components 104 attached at an interface.
As illustrated in
In some implementations, an upper and/or ceiling frame element 108c can define the upper edge of one or more modules 102, subunits 112, and/or modular wall frame 200. Likewise, a similar lower, floor, and/or sub-floor frame element 108 can define the lower edge of one or more modules 102, subunits 112, and/or modular wall frame 200. One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that modular wall frame 200 can adopt and/or comprise other configurations, including number, orientation, and arrangement of modules and/or subunits without departing from the scope of the disclosure.
In an alternative implementation, each module 102 can include one or more (e.g., opposing) frame elements 108. Thus, inner frame element 108a, outer frame end element 108b, upper frame element 108c, and/or lower frame element 108d of frame 200 can comprise a plurality of frame elements 108 (e.g., at least one for each module 102). In some implementations, wall system 100 and/or frame 200 thereof can comprise a plurality of modular frame elements 108 (e.g., for each module 102) and can also include one or more inner, outer, upper, and/or lower frame elements 108 (e.g., for each subunit 112, frame 200, and/or wall system 100). Thus, in at least one implementation, (i) module 102 can comprise one or more connection components 104 and/or one or more frame elements 108 (e.g., opposing upper and lower horizontal connection components 104 and opposing left and right vertical frame elements 108), (ii) subunit 112 can comprise one or more (e.g., a plurality of) modules 102, optionally having one or more inner frame element 108a, outer frame end element 108b, upper frame element 108c, and/or lower frame elements 108d connected or attached thereto (e.g., surrounding subunit 112), and/or (iii) frame 200 (or wall system 100) can comprise one or more (e.g., a plurality of) modules 102 (and/or subunits 112), optionally having one or more inner frame element 108a, outer frame end element 108b, upper frame element 108c, and/or lower frame elements 108d connected or attached thereto (e.g., surrounding frame 200 or wall system 100).
Thus, modular wall system 100 and/or subunit 112 thereof can comprise a plurality of modules 102 of identical, similar, and/or different sizes and/or shapes. Similarly, subunit 112 can comprise 1, 2, 3, 4, or more modules 102 in some implementations. Subunit 112 can be or comprise a single (vertical) column of modules 102, as illustrated in
It will be appreciated from
In addition, as illustrated in
Subunit 112 and/or modules 102 thereof can also comprise one or more frame elements 108. For instance, each module 102, subunit 112, or wall system 100 can have (opposing) vertical frame elements 108 extending between upper and lower connection components 104. Vertical frame elements 108 can comprise inner frame element(s) 108a and/or outer frame element(s) 108b. In addition, each module 102, subunit 112, or wall system 100 can have (opposing) horizontal frame elements 108 extending. Horizontal frame elements 108 can comprise upper frame element(s) 108c and/or lower frame element(s) 108d.
Modular wall 100a can comprise one or more channels 518 (disposed between modules 102 or connection components 104 thereof) and/or one or more channels 518a (disposed between modules 102 or frame elements 108 thereof). In some implementations, two modules 102 can share a common connection component 104 or other structural member 404 without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Structural member 404 can also optionally include one or more channels 518. Such a structural member 404 can be extruded, die-cast, injection-molded, milled, fabricated, manufactured, or otherwise formed as a single, unitary piece, element, or member that does not require a connection interface component (e.g., a connection interface component 726, as illustrated in
One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that a reconfigurable wall system 100, according to certain implementations, can comprise any suitable number of modules 102, arranged in any suitable number of subunits 112, including columns, rows, or other spatial, geometric, or other design. Thus, in some implementations, subunit(s) 112 can be arranged as horizontal row(s) or other grouping arrangement(s) configured to simplify installation, removal, and/or reconfiguration of the system 100. For instance, in at least one implementation, system 100a can comprise a 2-by-4 subunit of another reconfigurable wall system 100. In addition, modular subunits 112a and 112b can comprise a single subunit 112 in some implementations.
Modules 102 can each comprise one or more tiles 106. One or more tiles 106 can be centrally mounted about, between, and/or within one or more upper and/or lower connection components 104. For instance, a transparent or translucent glass, resin, and/or other tile 106a, for example, can be centrally and/or peripherally mounted about, between, and/or within an upper connection component 104 and/or a lower connection component 104. Alternatively and/or additionally, one or more wall tiles 106b can be mounted, attached, and/or secured to an exterior surface and/or region of the connection component(s) 104, module(s) 102, subunit(s) 112, and/or wall system 100. Wall tiles 106b can also be centrally and/or peripherally mounted, and glass tiles 106a can the exteriorly mounted.
In certain implementations, module(s) 102 can be one- or two-sided (e.g., in display properties). For instance, modules 102 can have an optional finished wall surface on both sides or a finished wall surface on one side only. Module(s) 102 can also comprise more than two (display) sides and/or elements, such as a protruding tile or other display element. In some implementations, each module 102 can comprise at least one tile 106. Tile(s) 106 (e.g., wall tiles 106b) can be covered or otherwise finished with a surface display element such as a wood veneer, vinyl or laminate overlay or coating, colored film, etc. (See e.g., surface finishing 107 of wall tile 106b of
Furthermore, at least one module 102 can comprise a first tile 106 on a display side of the wall system 100, and a second tile 106 on a non-display side of the wall system 100. Alternatively, at least one module 102 can comprise a first tile 106 on a display side of the wall system 100, and no tile 106 on a non-display side of the wall system 100. Other implementations can include a wall system 100 having two display sides. In such implementations, it can be appropriate to provide one or more modules 102 having one or more glass tiles 106a and/or first and/or second opposing wall tiles 106b, each of which includes a transparent, translucent, finished, and/or opaque surface and/or a display element. Display elements can include any type, style, and/or manner of color, design, decoration, image, or other desirable display property; including substantially colorless display property. Tiles 106 can be positioned, for instance, on a non-display side of wall system 100 and can optionally comprise a non-display finish.
Certain tiles 106 can be limited to the size, shape, dimensions, or other configuration of the module 102 to which it belongs and/or is secured. In some implementations, each module 102 of the modular wall system 100 comprises a uniform or substantially uniform (or similar) size. Thus, modules 102 can be congruent in shape, size, and/or compatibility. Other tiles 106, however, can be designed and/or configured to adorn, attach to, or otherwise be associated with a plurality of modules 102 and/or extend beyond the size and/or shape of a module 102. For instance, certain implementations can comprise a tile 106c (See
In some implementations, module 102 can include a wall tile 106b mounted to the exterior surface, edge, and/or region of one or more connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108. Thus, in certain implementations, tile(s) 106 can be configured to hide, substantially conceal, and/or reduce the visibility of at least part(s) of one or more modules 102, connection components 104, and/or frame elements 108. Such exterior-mounted tiles 106 (e.g., tiles 106b) can comprise wood, plaster, and/or any other material disclosed herein or otherwise suitable. Transparent and/or translucent glass, resin, or other tile(s) 106a can also or alternatively be exterior-mounted.
Some implementations can include one or more tiles 106 mounted in, within, or otherwise about the interior region of one or more connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108. For instance, glass tile 106a can be centrally or peripherally mounted between connection components 104. Furthermore, a plurality of tiles 106 (e.g., 106a and/or 106b, or a combination thereof) can be centrally or peripherally mounted between connection components 104. Thus, in certain implementations, tile(s) 106 can be configured to display, reveal, and/or permit the visibility of at least part(s) of one or more modules 102, connection components 104, and/or frame elements 108. Such interior-mounted tiles 106 can comprise glass, resin, and/or any other material disclosed herein or otherwise suitable. Opaque tile(s) 106 (e.g., tiles 106b) can also or alternatively be interior-mounted.
Certain implementations can include a channel 518 (e.g., 518, 518a) or other space or opening between first and second modules 102 (See also,
In some implementations, channel 518 can comprise a receiving channel, and thus, can be configured to house, secure, and/or receive a functional, display, and/or other object, component, member, or element. Such components can include, for example, one or more: cantilevers or object mounting elements; LED or other lighting elements (e.g., lighting strips), which can be powered by elements internal to the wall structure in some implementations; magnetic elements or strips; tackable elements, comprised of wood, cork, or other material, and which can be used to attach or affix other objects thereto; tubing or other conduit or channel material, component, or element configured to permit passage of matter therethrough; and any other functional component (including decorative components), whether known in the art or otherwise available.
In some implementations in which channel 518 has one or more lighting elements disposed therein, the one or more lighting elements may be used to provide one or more functions. By way of example, the one or more lighting elements may be used to illuminate a space defined by the wall system 100. In at least one implementation, the illumination can provide enough light in the space to allow occupant(s) to be able to see. In some implementations, the illumination may provide a guide or directions through the space (e.g., when the space is a hallway). The one or more lighting elements may also be used to provide aesthetics to the space defined by the wall system 100. For instance, the color or level of lighting (e.g., dim, bright, etc.) provided by the one or more lighting elements may be altered or otherwise used to set or change the aesthetics of the space defined by the wall system 100.
In some implementations, the one or more lighting elements may be used for communication purposes. For instance, the one or more lighting elements may be used to identify the status of the space defined by the wall system 100. The status of the space defined by the wall system 100 may include whether the space is occupied or available. In one exemplary implementation, the color of the one or more lighting elements may be changed to indicate the status of the space defined by the wall system 100. The status of the space may be communicated by the lighting elements by having the lighting elements unlit or lit, or light with a specific color.
For example, if the space is occupied or otherwise unavailable, the lighting elements in the channel 518 on the exterior and/or interior of the wall system 100 (i.e., outside and/or inside of the defined space) may be lit and/or lit with a specific color (e.g., red). In contrast, if the space is not occupied or is otherwise available, the lighting elements in the channel 518 on the exterior and/or interior of the wall system 100 (i.e., outside and/or inside of the defined space) may be unlit and/or lit with a specific color (e.g., green). Similarly, the lighting elements may be used to communicate other messages. For instance, the lighting elements may be lit with a specific color (e.g., red) to indicate that there is an emergency. The one or more lighting elements may also be lit and/or unlit in certain patterns to communicate messages (e.g., emergency, occupied, available, etc.).
In addition, the lighting element can comprise an LED or other message board or strip in certain implementations. For instance, the lighting element can display advertisements, instructions, directions, news, updates, text, etc. Similarly, the lighting element can display arrows, characters, figures, or any other suitable images for a specific purpose or effect. Thus, the lighting element(s) within channel 518 can provide a variety of aesthetic, functional, informative, or other utilities. Additional uses will be apparent to those skilled in the art or by practice of the present disclosure.
As discussed in further detail below, in at least one implementation, channel 518 can receive a gap-sealing or other functional component or member configured to cover, close, block, seal, or prevent fluid or other access to at least a portion of the channel 518. Such a sealing member can prevent dust, water, debris, and/or other materials or substances from entering and/or being retained within channel 518. Where necessary and/or appropriate, such functional components can provide, comply with, and/or adhere to building or other code or regulation. For instance, functional components can comply with and/or adhere to hospital or other healthcare or other facility rules, regulations, and/or building codes. Thus, a receiving channel 518 (as well as any other channel or channel member, etc. described and/or disclosed herein) can be configured to receive one or more functional components of any suitable nature or variety.
As indicated above, channel and/or receiving channel 518 can also (or alternatively) comprise a cantilever or other channel configured to allow objects to be hung and/or supported therefrom. For instance, a cantilever channel 518 at the interface between two (e.g., upper and lower) modules 102 (and/or connection component(s) 104 or frame element(s) 108 thereof), or between tiles 106 of and/or attached to the same, can allow for various accessories or mill work to be supported by a wall system 100, 100a (and/or subunit(s) 112 and/or module(s) 102 thereof) on the outside thereof at convenient locations that can be adjusted as needed. Thus, as discussed in greater detail below, cantilever channel 518 can comprise a shared cantilever channel between two or more connection components 104, modules 102, subunits 112, walls, and/or systems 100, 100a.
It is noted that while reference can be made in this disclosure to a specific type of channel (e.g., receiving channel, cantilever channel, etc.), additional functions, purposes, configurations, and uses are contemplated herein. Thus, reference to a specific type of channel should not be construed as limiting application of said channel to the particular function expressed and/or implied by the channel type thereof.
Channel 518 can comprise an opening or gap into the channel portion or element of the channel 518. The channel opening or gap can comprise any height, width, length, radius, diameter, circumference, perimeter, and/or other dimensional measurement suitable for implementations thereof. In some implementations, the opening or gap can be relatively small compared to the size of the module (e.g., a fraction of the size of the length, width, height, etc. of the module). In some implementations, the opening or gap can be designed to reduce visibility thereof. For instance, the opening or gap can be greater than, less than, up to, between, equal to, or about or approximately 9 mm, 7 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, or 1 mm. In other implementations, the opening or gap can be designed and/or configured to allow a certain size, gauge, etc. cantilever to pass therethrough, enter therein, and/or access the cantilever channel 518. For instance, openings or gaps can range in size from 1-100 mm or more, 10-100 cm or more, or 1-10 m or more without departing from the scope of this disclosure.
Thus, wall systems 100 described herein can also or alternatively include relatively large structures, buildings, pods, modules, and/or components and are not limited to conventional size, interior walls or wall modules customarily found in office, commercial, and/or industrial space, or other divided spaces known in the art. Such structures and/or structural components can be configured and/or reconfigured according to systems and methods described herein. For instance, portable classroom pods, storage containers, emergency or disaster relief housing, etc. can comprise modules and/or subunits of a modular system of connected modules or pods in one or more planes and/or directions. Thus, modules 102 of a wall system 100 can comprise 3-dimensional rooms, voids, spaces, etc. Such modules can include walls comprising connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 and can be universally compatible, such that assembly and/or reconfiguration of a variety of such modular structures are possible. Other applications and implementations for systems, methods, and apparatus described and/or disclosed herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the subject matter, disclosure, and/or descriptions found herein.
Cantilever channel 518 can also be configured to support a substantial or other amount of weight without causing significant damage, disassembly, or other undesirable alteration to the wall system 100 and/or one or more subunits 112, modules 102, connection components 104, and/or frame elements 108. For instance, cantilever channel 518 and/or component(s), module(s), subunit(s), wall(s), and/or system(s) incorporating and/or implementing the same, can be configured to support between 1 pound and 2000 pounds or more of gravitational, lateral, and/or other weight and/or torque (e.g., without structural failure, dissociation, and/or disassembly of the same). In particular, certain implementations can be configured to support at least 700 pounds or more of such weight or torque. In at least one implementation, a specific number of pounds per linear-, square-, or cubic-foot or other measurement can be supported thereby. For instance, certain implementations can be configured to support at least 700 pounds or more of such weight (or torque) per (or every) 48 inches, illustratively. Thus, wall system 100 can support desktops, work surfaces, appliances, shelves, and/or any other suitable and/or desirable objects using cantilever channel(s) 518.
In at least one implementation, cantilever channel 518 comprise a substantially continuous channel across the length, width, height, and/or other distance or measurement of one or more modules 102 and/or subunits 112. In certain implementations, at least one cantilever channel 518 runs the entire length of wall system 100. Thus, one or more objects can be supported by and/or hung from wall system 100 at any desirable position along the length and/or height thereof. In other implementations, each module can optionally form a separate channel 518 at an interface with an adjacent module 102. Thus, a centrally-positioned module 102 can form an upper, lower, left side, and/or right side channel 518 at the interface(s) with adjacent module(s) 102.
It will be appreciated that modules 102 can include additional connection components 104 in some implementations. For instance, one or more of the upper modules 102 of modular wall systems 100c, 100d, 100e, and 100f can have an upper connection component 104 (not shown) similar, identical, or different in configuration and/or design to lower connection component 104. Similarly, one or more of the lower modules 102 of modular wall systems 100c, 100d, 100e, and 100f can have a lower connection component 104 (not shown) similar, identical, or different in configuration and/or design to upper connection component 104. In addition, or alternatively, modular wall systems 100c, 100d, 100e, and 100f, or one or more modules 102 thereof, can include upper, lower, and/or outer side frame elements (not shown). Modules 102 can also be structurally supported by one or more splines 942 or other reinforcing members that can be attached to, between, and/or about one or more frame elements 108.
Connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 can be specifically adapted for receiving tile(s) 106 and/or accommodating a specific configuration. For instance, certain connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 can be configured to receive a single tile 106. Other connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 can be configured to receive a plurality of (e.g., a pair or opposing) tiles 106. In addition, some connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 can present or comprise a specific design feature or configuration. For instance, some connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 can present or comprise a curvilinear, rectilinear, or some other design feature or configuration.
It will be appreciated, however, that regardless of specific configuration, each of the modules 102 illustrated in
Moreover, each of the modules 102 illustrated in
A variety or designs and/or implementations of various features, elements, members, and/or components of wall systems 100 (or modules 102 thereof) will now be described in further detail. Those skilled in the art will appreciate, however, that the availability of specific designs and/or implementations is not limited by the exemplary embodiments disclosed herein.
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
Returning to
In addition, each of lower connection components 104b can be connected to upper connection component 104a at an interface 603. Thus, upper connection component 104a can be attached to lower connection component 104b at interface 603, and vice versa. Connection components 104 (e.g., 104a, 104b) can also be connected at a plurality of interfaces (e.g., comprising a connection and/or attachment interface). Upper connection component 104a can also be attached to lower connection component 104b at a second, similar, same, or different interface 603.
Connection components 104 can also form one or more cantilever or other channels 518 (e.g., at interface 603). Accordingly, assembly 300 can comprise one or more cantilever or other channels 518. For instance, assembly 300 includes opposing first and second cantilever channels 518 (e.g., on opposite sides of assembly 300 or connection components 104 thereof). Cantilever channel 518 can comprise, be comprised of, and/or be formed from one or more channel walls and/or channel members 624 of connection component(s) 104. As illustrated in
It is noted that the terms “align,” “alignment,” and the like refer to placing two or more objects, features, elements, members, components, etc. in and/or into a position configured to allow for a desired event and/or outcome, and does not necessarily require the congruent, exact, or other perfect matching of such objects in a single or plurality of planes. Thus, two objects can be aligned in separate planes by adjusting the position of one or more of said objects such that they are placed in proximity, interlock, cooperate, and/or correspond one to another. In addition, wherein appropriate, such objects can be placed in a distal configuration without departing from the scope of this disclosure when such distal configuration allows, permits, causes, promotes, and/or leads to a desired event and/or outcome.
In at least one implementation, (proper) alignment, connection, and/or attachment of connection components 104 (e.g., at or by means of alignment or formation of an attachment interface channel 620, as discussed below) results in a properly aligned and/or formed channel 518 and/or other components or features described herein. Furthermore, properly aligned connection components 104 can have, comprise, display, and/or present a number of characteristics. For instance, properly aligned connection components 104 can respect and/or conform to interface 603 such that no part or portion of connection components 104 crosses the interface. In addition, opposing channel members 624a and 624b can be withdrawn or recessed relative to interface 603. For instance, first channel members 624a can be set back a first distance 625a relative to interface 603 and/or second channel members 624b can be set back a second distance 625b relative to interface 603. First distance 625a and second distance 625b can be (substantially) equal, similar, or different in various implementations. First distance 625a, second distance 625b, and/or the sum total distance thereof can be less than, greater, up to, at least, equal to, between, or about 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 9 mm, 10 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm, 20 mm, or more in some implementations. Alternatively, such distances can be on the order of centimeters in certain implementations.
Upper connection component 104a can also comprise a (first) cantilever channel recess 908a and/or lower connection component 104b can comprise a (second) cantilever channel recess 908b. Cantilever channel recesses 908 and be adapted to receive a portion of a cantilever or other insert therein. For instance, as illustrated in
As shown in
As illustrated in
Connection interface component 726 can comprise one or more arms or channel engagement elements 728 configured to secure a plurality of connection components 104 together. For instance, one or more arms or channel engagement elements 728 can be adapted for insertion into one or more recessed portions 626 of channel 621. Connection interface component 726 can comprise an X-shaped body having four arms or channel engagement elements 728 extending therefrom. One will appreciate, however, that connection interface component 726 can comprise other shapes and features or elements (e.g., a T-shaped body having three arms, a star-shaped body having five or more arms, an I-shaped body having two arms, etc.) without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, connection interface component 726 and/or arms or channel engagement elements 728 can further comprise sub-arms and/or elements extending therefrom. Such features can enhance the effectiveness of connection interface component 726 and/or arms or channel engagement element 728 in some implementations.
Connection interface component 726 and/or arms or channel engagement elements 728 can secure a plurality of connection components 104 together by aligning and securing together one or more channels 621 of the plurality of connection components 104. For instance, connection interface component 726 can be inserted and/or otherwise positioned within attachment interface channel 620, channel(s) 621 thereof, and/or recessed portion(s) 626 thereof. In particular, a first channel engagement element 728 (or portion thereof) of connection interface component 726 can engage a first interface channel 621 (or portion thereof) of lower connection component 104b. For instance, lower connection component 104b and/or first interface channels 621 thereof can include one or more (inwardly extending) interface component attachment members 623 adapted for receiving channel engagement element 728. In certain implementations, interface component attachment member(s) 623 can form and/or define recessed portion(s) 626.
In at least one implementation, interface component attachment members 623 can substantially prevent movement of connection interface component 726 in at least one direction. For instance, interface component attachment member 623 of lower connection component 104b can substantially prevent movement of connection interface component 726 towards upper connection component 104a. In addition, upper connection component 104a can likewise include one or more interface component attachment members 623. Accordingly, interface component attachment members 623 of upper and lower connection components 104 can substantially prevent separation of properly aligned connection components 104 from their connection at interface 603. Likewise, a second channel engagement element 728 (or portion thereof, or second portion of first channel engagement element 728) of connection interface component 726 can engage a second interface channel 621 (or portion thereof) of upper connection component 104a, thereby securing, coupling, connecting, attaching, and/or aligning connection components 104 (or channel(s) thereof).
As illustrated in
Furthermore, in at least one implementation, a cantilever 905 can be provided for securing one or more objects to assembly 300a. Cantilever 905 can be positioned within cantilever channel 518 such that an object can be supported therefrom. Cantilever 905 can include a foot or locking element 906 configured to fit securely within a slot or recessed channel 908 of connection component 104c or channel 518, such that cantilever 905 is selectively and/or reversibly retained within channel 518.
Connection interface components 726 can also be configured to secure and/or connect connection components 104b, 104c such that the connection components 104b, 104c remain attached, connected, and/or secured when a force or weight from the cantilever 905 is applied. For instance, cantilever 905 can induce torsion and/or other force(s) within channel 518. Such a force can bias connection components 104b, 104c to separate and/or detach. Connection interface components 726 can, therefore, overcome or counter such force and retain connection components 104b, 104c in a secure, aligned, attached, and/or associated configuration.
Cantilever 905 can have a variety of configurations, lengths, heights, and/or other characteristics. For instance, cantilever 905 can extend longitudinally between opposing (horizontal) ends of a connection component 104. Accordingly, cantilever 905 can extend across a module 102, subunit 112, and/or wall system 100 of the present disclosure. As will be discussed in further detail below, in some implementations, cantilever 905 can extend latitudinally between opposing (vertical) ends of a frame element 108. Cantilever 905 can also have a variety of shapes and/or designs, including shelves, platforms, hooks, and/or other design features as known in the art and described herein. In addition, cantilever 905 can, at least partially, contact and/or rest upon tile 106b and/or be supported thereby. Tile 106b can, therefore, be configured to at least partially support the weight and/or force applied by the cantilever 905 and/or object(s) attached thereto.
In at least one implementation, connection components 104 can be similar or identical in some or all features and/or elements thereof. For instance, the respective connection components 104 of
In at least one implementation, connection components 104 can be inverted, interchanged, etc. However, in other implementations, connection components 104 are designated, configured, and/or designed to be assembled, attached, connected, and/or applied as an upper, lower, and/or other connection components 104. For instance, in at least one implementation, connection component 104c illustrated in
Furthermore, implementations of the present disclosure can relate to, include, and/or comprise interchangeable details, parts, and/or components designed and/or configured to allow versatility, configurability, and/or universality among such components. In at least one implementation, any such universally-configured connection or other component described and/or disclosed herein can be interchangeably attached and/or connected to any other such component (e.g., to form a module, subunit, frame, assembly, wall, and/or system as described herein or known in the art). It will also be apparent to one of skill in the art that the assembly 300b of
In addition to the above described connection components 104,
Connection component 104e can also comprise one or more interface channels 621 (e.g., opposing interface channels 621a, 621b). Interface channels 621 can include one or more interface component attachment members 623 (e.g., opposing interface component attachment members 623a and 623b) and/or recessed portion(s) 226 (e.g., opposing recessed portions 226a, 226b). Interface channel 621 can also include an end wall 627 in certain implementations. Connection component 104e can also comprise one or more attachment openings 937. Attachment openings 937 can be configured to receive one or more fasteners and/or other securing members (not shown). As discussed in further detail below, attachment openings 937 can be adapted for having one or more frame elements (see e.g., frame elements 108a of
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that shorter outer side surfaces 103d can provide an aesthetic advantage in certain implementations. For instance, shorter outer side surfaces 103d can be less visible then longer outer side surfaces 103c, from at least one vantage point. In addition, shorter outer side surfaces 103d can accommodate the universally interchangeability of connection components 104 by allowing a tile 106a (see
In at least one implementation, a connection component 104h can have extended, opposing outer side surfaces 103e. For instance, as illustrated in
In certain implementations, connection component 104i can be configured without a tile receiving element 605. For instance, as illustrated in
As indicated above, in at least some implementations, connection components 104 can comprise one or more attachment openings 937. Attachment openings 937 can be configured to receive one or more fasteners and/or other securing members (not shown). In particular, attachment openings 937 can be adapted for having one or more frame elements 108a secured and/or reversibly secured thereto. For instance, as illustrated in
As described in further detail below, frame element(s) 108 can be shaped and/or formed to fit securely within the shape and/or form of the various connection components 104 and/or other components described herein. For instance, frame element(s) 108 can comprise one or more structural feature 938 (e.g., channel, protrusion, and/or other element) configured to engage a portion, element, member, and/or structural feature of another component of assembly 300, or any system, wall, subunit, module, and/or component thereof described and/or disclosed herein. Structural features 938 can be formed on outer surface 940 and/or inner surface 941 (see
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
In at least one implementation, minimizing the number of openings 948 in spline 942 can significantly increase and/or enhance the effectiveness and/or strength of spline 942. Similarly, minimizing the number of openings in frame element(s) 108 can significantly increase and/or enhance the effectiveness and/or strength thereof. Accordingly, attachment of spline 942 to frame element(s) 108 may not require any (additional) openings or other holes in frame element(s) 108 in some implementations. In addition, attachment members 945 can comprise a body portion 945a and (opposing) arm(s) or other support member(s) 945b. Such a configuration can substantially prevent lateral load (from adjacent assemblies, subunits, modules, etc.) from transferring to assembly 300 and/or frame elements 108a thereof.
Seal(s) 946 can be especially important and/or useful where a wall system is constructed and/or used in a hospital, healthcare, and/or other facility where dust, debris, and microbes retained within channel 518 is undesirable. Furthermore, as illustrated in
As illustrated in
In an alternative implementation, seal 946 can be confined to a single module 102 and/or subunit 112. For instance, as illustrated in
In addition to (vertical) attachment of upper and lower connection components 104, certain implementations of the present disclosure include means for (horizontally) connecting two or more connection components 104, side-by-side. For instance,
Alignment element 964 (or one or more components thereof) can be disposed at least partially within interface channel 621 of connection component 104e or a first portion 621a thereof. Accordingly, connection components 104e having two interface channels 621 can receive two alignment elements 964. A plurality of alignment elements 964 can also be received into a single interface channel 621 in some implementations. It will be appreciated that a second portion 621b of interface channel 621 can be configured to receive a connection interface component 726 (not shown) in certain implementations. In at least one implementation, alignment element 964 can be disposed in another suitable region, area, portion, and/or element of connection component(s) 104e and/or assembly 300e. In addition, as discussed in further detail below, alignment element 964 can be positioned or disposed within attachment interface channel(s) 620 of or formed by upper and lower connection components 104 (or respective interface channels 621 thereof).
Alignment element 964 can be configured to properly align adjacent connection components 104. For instance, as illustrated in
In at least one implementation, channel attachment member 978 can include one or more gripping elements 979. For instance, as illustrated in
With reference to
Unlike assembly 300e of
As illustrated in
In addition, as illustrated in
Furthermore, one or more arms of translational member 972b can be substantially longer than one or more arms of translational member 972a. Accordingly, channel attachment member 978 of alignment element 964b can be positioned, disposed, secured, and/or attached further from interface 960a than channel attachment member 978 of alignment element 964a in some implementations. Similarly, alignment element attachment members 973 of alignment element 964b can be positioned, disposed, secured, and/or attached further from interface 960a than alignment element attachment members 973 of alignment element 964a in some implementations.
In at least one implementation, alignment elements 964a and 964b can be independently operated to fine-tune the attachment of connection components 104f. For instance, in at least one implementation, alignment element 964a can be placed and/or positioned at least partially within aligned channels 621 of horizontally-adjacent (lower) connection components 104f. Alignment element 964a can then be operated to secure together the horizontally-adjacent connection components 104f. Alignment element 964b can be placed and/or positioned (e.g., over-laid) atop alignment element 964a. Specifically, opening 971 can be disposed over or about one or more components (e.g., alignment element attachment members 973, aligning member 975, channel attachment member 978, etc. see
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in certain implementations, the linear and/or corner-implementing and/or accommodating features and/or components described herein can also be implemented to adjoin corners of other components, including frame elements and/or tiles, etc.
As indicated above,
Frame elements 108d and 108e can each have a centrally disposed channel or tile receiving element 605 recessed into outer surface 109a, 109c. Channel 605 can have a tile securing or attachment element 606 disposed therein and configured to receive a tile 106a. In addition, frame elements 108d and 108e can each have one or more interface components 623. Interface components 623 can be configured to be secured together by means of connection interface member 726c. Connection interface member 726c can comprise a body portion 727 and one or more arms 728 extending therefrom. For instance, connection interface member 726c can comprise opposing arms 728a and 728b, extending from the body portion 727.
In at least one implementation, connection interface member 726c can secure frame elements 108d and 108e together at interface 603a by attachment to respective interface components 623 thereof. For instance, body portion 727 of connection interface member 726c can be inserted between respective interface components 623 of connection components 108d and 108e. In addition, arms 728 can secure connection interface member 726c to interface components 623 via locking mechanism 729. For instance, locking mechanism 729 can comprise one or more protrusions and/or extensions configured to interact with one or more ledges or recesses 630 of interface component 623.
As illustrated in
In at least one implementation, a spline 942 can be disposed and/or inserted into spline receiving element(s) 943. For instance, a spline 942 can be disposed within opposing spline receiving element 943 between opposing interface components 623 of each frame element 108. In an alternative implementation, a single spline 942 can be disposed between adjacent and/or attached frame elements 108. In certain implementations, spline receiving element 943 can comprise a recess or channel configured to receive spline 942.
Furthermore, the implementation of additional components and/or features known in the art and/or desirable in certain implementations of the present invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art and/or in light of the present disclosure or become apparent through the practice thereof. For instance, certain implementations may include acoustic and/or other tiles or panels mounted to, about, and/or within components, modules, subunits, walls, and/or systems disclosed herein. Furthermore, the absence of such known or apparent features should not be construed as restricting the scope or application of the present disclosure to the exclusion of such features.
Reconfigurable Curved Partition Systems
The systems and components of
The one or more connection components 1004 may be connected and/or attached to one another in a manner similar to that described above in connection with connection components 104, 104′, etc. More specifically, the connection components 1004 may be connected and/or attached to one another with a connection interface component.
In some implementations, the first and second channel engagement elements 1028a′, 1028a″ may be angled relative to one another or be arranged in a non-parallel configuration. For instance, as shown in
In the illustrated implementation, the intermediate member 1029b is formed of a first part 1029b′ and a second part 1029b″ that form an angle relative to one another. In some implementations, the first and second parts 1029b′, 1029b″ form an acute angle, while in other implementations the first and second parts 1029b′, 1029b″ for a right angle or an obtuse angle. While the angle formed by the first and second parts 1029b′, 1029b″ opens towards the second ends 1028b′-2, 1028b″-2 in the illustrated implementation, the first and second parts 1029b′, 1029b″ may be oriented so that the angle formed by the first and second parts 1029b′, 1029b″ opens towards the first ends 1028b′-1, 1028b″-1. In still other implementations, the intermediate member 1029b may be formed of a straight member, similar to intermediate member 1029a.
In some implementations, the first and second channel engagement elements 1028b′, 1028b″ may be angled relative to one another or be arranged in a non-parallel configuration. For instance, as shown in
As illustrated in
As noted above, the connection interface components 1026a, 1026b can secure a plurality of connection components 1004 together.
The connection interface components 1026a, 1026b may be inserted and/or otherwise positioned within the attachment interface channels 1020 to secure the connection components 1004b, 1004c together. For instance, as illustrated in
Similarly, the connection interface component 1026b is inserted and/or otherwise positioned within the attachment interface channel 1020″. In particular, the first channel engagement element 1028b′ (or a portion thereof) of connection interface component 1026b is engaged within the first interface channel 1021b″ (or a portion thereof) of the connection component 1004c. Likewise, the second channel engagement element 1028b″ (or a portion thereof) of connection interface component 1026b may engage the second interface channel 1021b′ (or a portion thereof) of the connection component 1004b, thereby securing, coupling, connecting, and/or attaching the connection components 1004b, 1004c. Notably, because the first and second channel engagement elements 1028b′, 1028b″ are angled relative to one another, the connection interface component 1026b connects the connection components 1004b, 1004c together at an angle or in a non-planar or non-parallel manner.
When the connection components 1004b, 1004c are connected together at an angle or in a non-planar or non-parallel manner, as shown in
In the illustrated implementation, the first and second channel engagement elements 1028a′, 1028a″ form an angle of about 5°. Similarly, the first and second channel engagement elements 1028b′, 1028b″ for an angle of about 5°. As a result, the connection components 1004b, 1004c form an angle of about 5°. The result of the connection components 1004b, 1004c forming an angle of about 5° is that the modules 1002a, 1002b (of which the connection components 1004b, 1004c are a part) are oriented at an angle of about 5° relative to one another. When additional modules 1002 are connected to the modules 1002a and/or 1002b at angles in a similar manner, the resulting frames (and partition) form a curved, angled, non-planar, or non-parallel configuration.
It will be appreciated that connection interface components may be formed with channel engagement elements that are oriented at various angles relative to one another. For instance, while the channel engagement elements 1028 are illustrated at approximately 5°, channel engagement elements may be oriented at a variety of different angles (e.g., 2.5°, 10°, 15°, 30°, 45°, etc.). Moreover, two modules (e.g., 1002a, 1002b) may be connected together with connection interface components having channel engagement elements oriented at a first angle while two other modules (e.g., 1002b, 1002c) may be connected together with connection interface components having channel engagement elements oriented at a second angle that is different than the first angle. Furthermore, the angles between adjacent modules 1002 may open in different directions. For instance, modules 1002a, 1002b may form an angle that opens to a first side of the frame while modules 1002b, 1002c form an angle that opens to a second side of the frame. Thus, in some implementations the angled connection interface components may allow for a frame to have a curved or arched configuration when the angled connection interface components are oriented in a similar manner. In other implementations, the angled connection interface components may allow for a frame to have a zig-zag or wave configuration when the angled connection interface components are oriented in dissimilar manners. Accordingly, various combinations of curved and straight walls, ceilings, or other partitions can be connected in some embodiments. Likewise, various combinations of curved and straight walls, ceilings, or other partitions can be connected to form unique design features.
Methods of Configuring Wall Systems
In at least one implementation, a method of assembling a wall system comprises providing a plurality of modules 102 configured to be arranged into a modular structure, wherein each module 102 comprises at least one connection component 104 configured to be attached to a connection component 104 of another module 102. A variety of methods related to assembling a wall system have already been described above. For instance, some methods can include aligning a connection component 104 of a first module 102 with a connection component 104 of a second module 102 at a connection interface 603. In one or more implementations, the connection interface 603 can be universal among modules 102 (or connection components 104 thereof) of the wall system. Furthermore, implementations can include reversibly securing the first module 102 to the second module 102 by means of a connection interface member 726.
In some implementations, the connection component 104 of the first module 102 comprises an interface channel 621 that aligns at the connection interface 603 with a corresponding interface channel 621 of the connection component 104 of the second module 102 (e.g., to form a connection interface channel 620). The method can also include reversibly securing the first module 102 to the second module 102 by inserting or otherwise attaching the connection interface member 726 into the connection interface channel 620 and/or the respective interface channels 621 of the respective connection components 104 of the first and second modules 102 such that the respective interface channels 621 remain aligned while the connection interface member 726 is at least partially positioned therein.
In an implementation, at least the first module 102 comprises first and second connection components 104 positioned on opposite ends of the first module 102. Moreover, at least the first module 102 can include a tile 106 attached to the opposing connection components 104 of the first module 102, wherein the tile 106 comprises at least one of a transparent material, a translucent material, and an opaque material. In addition, the first module 102 can comprise one or more frame elements 108 attached to one or more of the connection component 104, the tile 106, and/or a tile attachment member 622, 214, 605, 606. In at least one implementation, the tile 106 is attached to and/or positioned between first and second connection components 104 positioned on opposite ends of the module 102. The method can also include attaching one or more frame elements 108 to the first module 102, wherein the one or more frame elements 108 are configured to support the modules 102.
In at least one implementation, the module 102 can comprise a rectangular or square shaped configuration, with opposing frame elements 108 extending between opposing connection components 104, and on opposing ends thereof. In other implementations, one or more sides of the rectangle or square shaped module can be devoid of a frame element 108 and/or connection component 104. In addition, in certain implementations, the module 102 can be devoid of tile(s) 106 and/or tile attachment member(s) 622, 214, 605, 606.
In some implementations, modules 102 can be secured together (vertically) by means of the connection interface members 726 secured within respective interface channels 621 of adjacent connection components 104 and/or (horizontally) by means of connection interface members 726 secured to respective interface components 623 of adjacent frame elements 108. In addition, modules 102 can be secured together through other mechanisms as described herein. For instance, modules 102 can be secured together through the use of connection interface components 726 attached to or within other than interface channels or to other interface components. Modules 102 can also be secured together with the use of alignment members as described herein.
Certain methods can also include connecting an assembled wall system comprising a plurality of modules 102 to an existing structural wall or wall system. In other implementations, an assembled wall system comprising a plurality of modules 102 can be a freestanding structure. Assembled wall systems can also be attached to floors, subfloors, ceilings, and/or suspended ceilings in some implementations.
In some implementations, the method of assembling a wall system can include assembling a frame 200. The frame 200 can comprise a plurality of connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108. The plurality of connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 can be assembled into modules 102 within the frame 200 and/or can be connected one to another as described above. One or more tiles 106 can also be attached to the frame 200 and/or modules 102 thereof.
In another implementation, a method of reconfiguring an assembled wall system comprises disabling a module securing mechanism 726 such that first and second modules 102 of a modular structure are unsecured one from another. The method can also include altering the configuration of the modular structure and/or enabling a module securing mechanism 726 such that modules 102 of the modular structure are secured one to another. In at least one implementation, enabling a module securing mechanism 726 comprises (re)enabling the disabled module securing mechanism 726.
Furthermore, altering the configuration of the modular structure can comprise at least one of removing the first module 102, replacing the first module 102 with a second module 102, adding one or more new modules 102, shuffling the respective positions of two or more modules 102, and changing the orientation of at least one module 102. Disabling a module securing mechanism 726 can comprise disengaging a connection interface member 726 that secures the first module 102 to the second module 102. In particular, disengaging a module securing mechanism 726 can comprise removing a connection interface member 726 that secures the first module 102 to the second module 102 (e.g., from an interface channel 620, 621) and/or rotating a connection interface member 726 from an engaged position to a disengaged position, wherein the connection interface member 726 secures the first module 102 to the second module 102 when engaged.
Likewise, enabling a module securing mechanism 726 can include attaching, connecting, securing and/or inserting a connection interface member 726 that secures the first module 102 to the second module 102 (e.g., within the interface channel 620, 621). Alternatively and/or additionally, enabling a module securing mechanism 726 can include rotating a connection interface member 726 from a disengaged position to an engaged position, wherein the connection interface member secures the first module to the second module when engaged.
The systems and components described in connection with
Furthermore, as discussed above, the various frame elements 108 described herein can likewise allow for a wide variety of wall configurations and ready assembly, disassembly, and/or reconfiguration by means of one or more connection interface components 726, thereby providing great versatility in the configuration and reconfiguration of modular walls and wall systems. By way of example, the frame elements 108 shown in
In light of the disclosure herein, it will be appreciated that the ability to readily connect and disconnect the connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 from one another provides for ready assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration of modular walls and wall systems. For instance, the simple connection between two connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 with a connection interface component 726, as described herein, allows for a modular wall to be assembled in relative short period of time and with minimal effort. Similarly, a modular wall can be disassembled relatively quickly and with minimal effort due to the simplicity of the connection between the connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108.
Moreover, the connection between two connection components 104 and/or frame elements 108 with a connection interface component 726, as described herein, also provides for ready reconfiguration of a modular wall. For instance, in order to reorder two modules 102 (e.g., modules 102b, 102c,
Notably, a modular wall can be reconfigured as described without having to disassemble the entire modular wall. Rather, only the modules 102 that are being reordered or replaced need to be disconnection from the modular wall. In addition, the modular wall can provide support for the adjacent modules 102 remaining connected thereto after removal of the modules 102 to be reordered (or removed). Accordingly, external support mechanism(s) (e.g., additional personnel or equipment) may not be required to quickly reorder modules 102 of the module wall. Instead, a single user can perform the reconfiguration. In some implementations, one or more tools can be used to assist in the removal of connection interface component(s) 726, connection component(s) 104, frame element(s) 108, module(s) 102, subunit(s) 112, etc., without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.
Similarly, the connection system described herein enables the height and/or width of the modular wall to be readily adjusted without having to disassemble the entire modular wall. For instance, to increase to the height of a modular wall (e.g., wall 100,
In some implementations, one or more of the modules 102 in the middle rows (i.e., rows between the top and bottom rows) of the modular wall can be removed. As discussed herein, the modules 102, regardless of what row they are in, can be removed by removing the connection interface component(s) 726 that connect the modules 102 to the surrounding modules 102. Once the connection interface component(s) 726 are removed and/or disengaged, the module(s) 102 can be removed from the modular wall, without having to disassembly the entire modular wall. In some instances, when a module 102 is removed from one of the middle rows of the modular wall, the module(s) 102 above the removed module 102 can be lowered down into the place of the removed module 102, thereby reducing the height of the modular wall. Once lowered into place, the lowered modules 102 can then be secured to the surrounding modules 102 (e.g., with connection interface component(s) 726). Alternatively, the module(s) 102 above the removed module 102 can optionally remain un-lowered such that a gap or void in the wall persists. Such an aesthetic design feature can be desirable in certain implementations.
Thus, implementations of the present disclosure include reconfigurable, (elastically) interchangeable, (universally) compatible, and/or otherwise customizable systems and apparatus for modular structures, such as walls, and methods related to the same. Such systems and apparatus can avoid issues related to interdependence of components by including a common, universal, and/or elastic interface that provides and/or accepts components described and/or disclosed herein regardless of shape and/or size thereof. Therefore, the present disclosure relates to systems, methods, and apparatus that provide ultimate design control over modular systems implementing the same.
The above-described implementations of the present disclosure are meant to be illustrative of exemplary and/or preferred implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. The only limitations to the scope of the present invention are set forth in the following claims appended hereto. While various aspects and implementations have been disclosed herein, other aspects and implementations are contemplated. Thus, while the foregoing is directed to certain implementations of the present disclosure, other and further implementations of the disclosure can be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. Various modifications, which would be readily apparent to one skilled in the art, are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, implementations of the present disclosure are further scalable to allow for additional components, modules, subunits, systems, elements, members, and/or users, etc., as particular applications can require.
The present disclosure can be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described implementations are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. While certain implementations and details have been included herein and in the attached invention disclosure for purposes of illustrating the invention, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes in the methods and apparatus disclosed herein can be made without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined in the appended claims. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
The present invention is a 35 U.S.C. §371 U.S. National Stage of PCT Application No. PCT/US2015/34491, filed Jun. 5, 2015, which claims the benefit of priority to U.S. to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/009,061, filed Jun. 6, 2014, and to U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/009,557, filed Jun. 9, 2014. The entire content of each of the foregoing patent applications is incorporated herein by reference.
Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind |
---|---|---|---|
PCT/US2015/034491 | 6/5/2015 | WO | 00 |
Publishing Document | Publishing Date | Country | Kind |
---|---|---|---|
WO2015/188105 | 12/10/2015 | WO | A |
Number | Name | Date | Kind |
---|---|---|---|
3295283 | Griffith | Jan 1967 | A |
3371454 | Anderson | Mar 1968 | A |
3486287 | Guillon | Dec 1969 | A |
3866364 | Pollard | Feb 1975 | A |
4031680 | Stoakes | Jun 1977 | A |
4065904 | Taylor | Jan 1978 | A |
4101231 | Streib | Jul 1978 | A |
4356672 | Beckman | Nov 1982 | A |
4535577 | Tenser | Aug 1985 | A |
4648231 | Laroche | Mar 1987 | A |
4652170 | Lew | Mar 1987 | A |
4830080 | Densen | May 1989 | A |
5125201 | Pieters | Jun 1992 | A |
5592794 | Tundaun | Jan 1997 | A |
5685113 | Reuter | Nov 1997 | A |
5803146 | Boon | Sep 1998 | A |
5806261 | Huebner | Sep 1998 | A |
6260321 | Ruddock | Jul 2001 | B1 |
6536175 | Conterno | Mar 2003 | B2 |
6615556 | Cates | Sep 2003 | B2 |
6761004 | Anglin | Jul 2004 | B2 |
9003731 | Gosling | Apr 2015 | B2 |
20030163967 | Sims | Sep 2003 | A1 |
20040139677 | Mulas | Jul 2004 | A1 |
20060059806 | Gosling | Mar 2006 | A1 |
20070077387 | Riccobene | Apr 2007 | A1 |
20080069632 | Gosling | Mar 2008 | A1 |
20080302054 | Gosling | Dec 2008 | A1 |
20090272056 | Koupal | Nov 2009 | A1 |
20100050548 | Krieger | Mar 2010 | A1 |
20100067969 | Kang | Mar 2010 | A1 |
20100102960 | Simon | Apr 2010 | A1 |
20100192511 | Gosling | Aug 2010 | A1 |
20100287858 | Israeli | Nov 2010 | A1 |
20130025220 | Yu | Jan 2013 | A1 |
20140137495 | Ariza | May 2014 | A1 |
20160168863 | Kwan | Jun 2016 | A1 |
Number | Date | Country |
---|---|---|
2248428 | Mar 2000 | CA |
0657595 | Jun 1995 | EP |
2218447 | Sep 1974 | FR |
1013451 | Dec 1965 | GB |
2374612 | Oct 2002 | GB |
101311065 | Sep 2013 | KR |
2011150467 | Dec 2011 | WO |
Entry |
---|
Non-Final Office Action in U.S. Appl. No. 14/903,035 dated Feb. 16, 2017. |
Non-Final Office Action for U.S. Appl. No. 15/023,990 dated Mar. 6, 2017. |
International Search Report for application No. PCT/US15/15920 dated May 22, 2015. |
International Search Report for application No. PCT/US15/015931 dated Apr. 30, 2015. |
International Search Report for application No. PCT/US15/015943 dated May 14, 2015. |
International Search Report for application No. PCT/US15/34491 dated Sep. 15, 2015. |
European Search Report for application No. PCT/US2015015943 dated Sep. 27, 2017. |
Final Office Action for U.S. Appl. No. 15/023,990 dated Oct. 3, 2017. |
Non-Final Office Action for U.S. Appl. No. 15/026,566 dated Sep. 21, 2017. |
Number | Date | Country | |
---|---|---|---|
20170089066 A1 | Mar 2017 | US |
Number | Date | Country | |
---|---|---|---|
62009061 | Jun 2014 | US | |
62009557 | Jun 2014 | US |