CN113167068A

CN113167068A - Attachment member for attaching two panels of a room divider system and room divider system comprising said attachment member

Info

Publication number: CN113167068A
Application number: CN201980081678.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 本尼·安德森; 马茨·伦德奎斯特
Original assignee: Ikea Supply AG
Current assignee: Ikea Supply AG
Priority date: 2018-11-09
Filing date: 2019-11-08
Publication date: 2021-07-23
Anticipated expiration: 2039-11-08
Also published as: CN113167068B; EP3877602A1; EP3877602A4

Abstract

An attachment member for attachment to first and second panels of a room divider, the attachment member comprising: a first portion configured to be attached to a first panel; and a second portion configured to attach to a second panel, wherein the first portion and/or the second portion comprises at least one attachment element configured to attach to a receiving portion associated with the respective panel, and the attachment member is configured to hold the first panel and the second panel in an assembled position.

Description

Attachment member for attaching two panels of a room divider system and room divider system comprising said attachment member

Technical Field

The present invention generally relates to an attachment member for a room divider.

Background

In urban society, there is an increasing need to utilize office areas as efficiently as possible. Thus, an open office area is typically divided into workstations or office areas by room dividers to allow flexible and efficient use of the office area. An example of such a room divider is described in US 4,310,995. Such room dividers are typically constructed of a plurality of panels attached side-by-side.

Furthermore, a compact life at home has become a trend, particularly in large cities. Due to urbanization, there is an increasing need to utilize living areas in apartments as efficiently as possible. In addition, for growing families in cities, it is of great significance to divide part of living areas for new family members. Thus, room dividers are also well used in homes.

Panel systems for room dividers are well known in the art. The panels may be assembled in different configurations, which allows different types of room dividers to be implemented. As disclosed in US 2009/0094913 a1, panel systems for assembling room dividers can generally be divided into two main types: a) a panel system having a wall section comprised of a single unitary panel; b) a panel system having wall sections made up of a plurality of smaller panels stacked on top of each other in a generally parallel relationship to form each wall section. In both cases, complex systems and tools may be required to assemble panels adjacent to each other. Furthermore, the panels may not be sufficiently secured and the resulting room divider may be unstable and require a large number of support means to keep the room divider upright.

Room dividers that can be assembled simply and safely are highly desirable, especially in private homes, but also in offices.

Disclosure of Invention

It is an object of the present invention to alleviate at least one of the above problems. Thus, an attachment member is provided which enables simple installation and assembly of a multi-panel room divider and ensures that the panels are securely assembled with respect to each other.

An attachment member according to the present disclosure may include a generally elongate member having a generally U-shaped cross-section. This allows the attachment members to be placed on adjacently assembled panels, thereby holding the panels together and covering the gap between the panels. The generally U-shaped cross-section of the attachment member allows the attachment member to be configured to exert a clamping force on the respective panel when fitted thereon. The attachment member may be elastically deformable such that it may be deformed to fit over an adjacently assembled panel and then when the attachment member returns to its original form, the attachment member provides a clamping force on the panel in order to provide a secure connection. In addition, the attachment member may also include a plurality of attachment elements. The attachment element is configured to be inserted into a corresponding portion of a connector of the panel. The attachment elements may each comprise a generally cylindrical portion and/or a tapered shape at one end to enable easier insertion into the connector. The attachment element is configured to exert a retaining force on the receiving portion when inserted into a corresponding portion of the connector. This is achieved by a snap fit between the attachment element and the receiving portion. The receiving portion may be configured to elastically deform upon insertion of the attachment element and then provide a retaining force on the attachment element as the receiving portion returns to its original form in order to provide a secure connection. Alternatively, the generally cylindrical portion may be configured to elastically deform when inserted and then provide a retention force on the connector when the generally cylindrical portion returns to its original form. Each generally cylindrical portion may also include a notch such that a snap fit between the cylindrical portion and the connector is secure. The connection is held in place by the engagement of the notches with the corresponding portions of the connector. This provides an additional or alternative means for connecting the attachment member to the panel to which it is attached. In this way, the hole may be left empty for connecting additional elements, such as an adjustable foot or a suspension member. The cylindrical portion may also be configured to receive a component that may be screwed into the corresponding threaded portion such that an additional component may be connected to the attachment member.

The attachment element may be configured to exert a retention force on the corresponding connector such that the first and second panels are retained in the assembled position based at least in part on the retention force. When the panels are pushed together, the fabric covering the panels may be compressed by the retention force provided by the attachment members and held in that compressed position. This ensures that there is no visible space between adjacent assembled panels. Furthermore, by pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from passing between the panels as the gap has been closed. Thus, the noise cancellation effect of the panels assembled as a room divider system is improved. This is advantageous, for example, in open office areas divided into workstations by a room divider system. Furthermore, the stability of the assembled room divider system is improved as the panels form a common block once pressed together.

The attachment member may include a plurality of threaded portions formed in a top surface of the attachment member. The threaded portion may allow for additional elements, such as attaching an adjustable foot or suspension member. The attachment member may further include a plurality of holes formed through a top surface of the attachment member. These holes provide clearance for inserting fastening elements which can be connected to the connecting elements of the connectors of the panel to fasten the attachment member in place. These holes may alternatively provide clearance for insertion of additional elements, wherein the additional elements may be connected to the connecting element, for example adjustable feet or suspension members.

The attachment members may have other shapes that facilitate assembly of the panels in different configurations. The attachment member may be implemented with legs arranged at any suitable angle. The attachment member may have a 90 ° bend, such as having an L-shape or a T-shape. The attachment member may have a 45 ° bend. The attachment member may comprise a hinge such that the attachment member is adjustable.

For an attachment member having an L-shape, the attachment member includes a first leg and a second leg joined at an apex. This allows two panels to be attached to each other perpendicular to each other, with the first leg attached to the first panel and the second leg attached to the second panel. The L-shaped attachment members may be configured to accommodate different corner arrangements of the panels depending on the manner in which the panels are assembled. The attachment member may be configured such that the attachment element of the first leg is closer to the apex of the attachment member than the attachment element of the second leg. Alternatively, the attachment member may be configured such that the attachment element of the first leg is further from the apex of the attachment member than the attachment element of the second leg. The L-shaped attachment member may be rotated appropriately to accommodate differently oriented corners.

For an attachment member having a T-shape, the attachment member includes a first leg and a second leg, wherein the second leg is joined at one end to a central portion of the first leg. This configuration allows two panels to be attached to each other perpendicularly at a central portion of one of the two panels, with the first leg attached to the first panel and the second leg attached to the second panel. Since the attachment member is attached at the central portion of the first panel where no connector is present, only the second leg may comprise an attachment element.

According to an aspect, there is provided an attachment member for attachment to first and second panels of a room divider, the attachment member comprising: a first portion configured to be attached to a first panel; and a second portion configured to attach to a second panel, wherein the first portion and/or the second portion comprises at least one attachment element configured to attach to a receiving portion associated with the respective panel, and the attachment member is configured to hold the first panel and the second panel in an assembled position.

Optionally, the first and second portions each have a generally U-shaped cross-section such that the first and second portions are configured to fit over respective panels. Thus, increased stability is provided to the connection between the two panels. Optionally, the first and second portions are configured to exert a clamping force on the respective panel when fitted thereto. Preferably, the first and second portions are configured to be connectable to the top of the respective panel by a snap fit. Optionally, the first portion and/or the second portion comprises at least one aperture for receiving a fastening element for attachment to a corresponding connector of a respective panel. Optionally, each attachment member comprises at least one threaded portion.

Optionally, the at least one attachment element is configured to exert a retaining force on the corresponding receiving portion, wherein the first and second panels are retained in the assembled position based at least in part on the retaining force. Optionally, each attachment element comprises a notch configured to engage with a respective receiving portion. Optionally, the receiving portion is part of a connector associated with the respective panel, and the recess is configured to engage with a sleeve portion of the receiving portion. Optionally, each attachment element comprises a generally cylindrical portion configured to be inserted into the receiving portion. Optionally, each attachment element comprises at one end, preferably at the insertion end, a substantially conical portion through which the attachment element is inserted into the receiving portion. Optionally, each attachment element is configured to engage with the receiving portion in a snap-fit manner.

Optionally, the first and second portions are arranged consecutively along a common axis such that the first and second portions are attachable to the first and second panels when the first and second panels are arranged adjacent and parallel to the axis in the assembled position. Optionally, the first and second portions are arranged at an angle relative to each other such that when the first and second panels are arranged at an angle in the assembled position, the first and second portions can attach the attachment member to the first and second panels. Optionally, the angle is a right angle.

Optionally, the first and second portions are arranged to meet at an apex such that the attachment member is generally L-shaped. Optionally, the attachment elements of the first portion are arranged closer to the apex than the attachment elements of the second portion. Optionally, the attachment elements of the first portion are arranged further away from the apex than the attachment elements of the second portion.

Optionally, the first portion and the second portion are arranged to meet at a central portion of the first portion such that the attachment member is substantially T-shaped. Optionally, only the second portion comprises an attachment element.

Also disclosed is a room divider system, comprising: a first panel and a second panel arranged in an assembled position; and an attachment member, wherein the attachment member is attached to the first panel and the second panel.

Optionally, the attachment member is arranged to exert a retaining force on the first and second panels to retain the first and second panels together in the assembled position. Optionally, at least one of the first and second panels comprises an at least partially compressible surface material, such as an elastic covering material, such as a fabric, e.g. a non-woven fabric, and the retention force is configured to compress the compressible surface material of the at least one panel while attaching the attachment member to the first and second panels. Optionally, the room divider further comprises: a first connector attachable to the first panel by means of a first fastener or to the first panel by means of a first fastener; and a second connector attachable to the second panel by means of a second fastener. Preferably, the first and second connectors are arranged in the upper end of the respective panel, the third and fourth connectors are arranged in the lower end of the respective panel and connected to the lower end, the first attachment member is arranged for connection to the first and second connectors to connect the panels at the upper end of the panel, and the second attachment member is arranged for connection to the third and fourth connectors to connect the panels at the lower end of the panel.

Optionally, the room divider further comprises a first profile configured to cover an edge of the first panel and a second profile configured to cover an edge of the second panel, each profile preferably being configured to be attached to a respective connector and a respective panel by means of a respective fastener. Optionally, the room divider further comprises: a first gasket, wherein the first connector is attachable to the first panel via the first gasket by means of a first fastener; and a second washer, wherein the second connector is attachable to the second panel via the second washer by means of a second fastener.

The disclosed attachment member may allow panels of a room divider to be securely assembled in various forms and have various uses. The assembled room dividers can be used in offices, public spaces such as schools, restaurants, and shops, and in homes. In some applications, the room divider is arranged to extend from the floor to the ceiling, while in other applications the room divider does not extend to the ceiling. Furthermore, a panel of the room divider for providing access to a space divided from the rest of the room may be mounted as a sliding door, for example in a wardrobe, or attached to the ceiling of the room.

Other advantageous features are set forth in detail in the embodiments disclosed herein. Further advantageous features are defined in the dependent claims.

Drawings

The invention will be further described below by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the drawings:

figure 1a is a perspective view of a panel for a room divider system,

figure 1b is a perspective view of a panel for a room divider system according to an alternative embodiment,

figure 2a is a detailed view of a slat for a panel of a room divider system,

figure 2b is a detailed view of a slat for a panel of a room divider system according to another embodiment,

figure 3a is a perspective view of a room divider system comprising a plurality of panels,

figure 3b is a perspective view of a room divider system comprising a plurality of panels according to another embodiment,

figure 3c is a perspective view of a room divider system comprising a plurality of panels according to another embodiment,

figure 4a is a perspective view of a support for attachment to a room divider system,

figure 4b is a perspective view of an adjustable foot for attachment to a room divider system,

figure 5a shows a perspective view of an elongated attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 5b shows a cross-sectional view of an elongated attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 5c is a partial cross-sectional view of an L-shaped attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 5d is a plan view of an L-shaped attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 5e is a plan view of an L-shaped attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 5f is a cross-sectional view of a T-shaped attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 6a is an exploded cross-sectional view of a room divider system according to one embodiment,

figure 6b is a perspective cross-sectional view of a room divider system according to one embodiment,

figure 7a shows a side view of a connector according to one embodiment,

figure 7b shows a perspective view of a connector according to one embodiment,

figure 7c shows a perspective view of a connector according to one embodiment,

figure 8a shows a gasket according to one embodiment,

figure 8b shows a top view of a gasket according to one embodiment,

figure 9 shows a side view of a room divider system according to one embodiment,

figure 10 shows a perspective view of a connector according to one embodiment,

figure 11a is an exploded cross-sectional view of a room divider system including an elongated attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 11b is a perspective cross-sectional view of a room divider system including an elongated attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 12a is an exploded cross-sectional view of a room divider system including L-shaped attachment members according to one embodiment,

figure 12b is a perspective cross-sectional view of a room divider system including L-shaped attachment members according to one embodiment,

figure 13a is an exploded cross-sectional view of a room divider system including a T-shaped attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 13b is a perspective cross-sectional view of a room divider system including a T-shaped attachment member according to one embodiment,

figure 14a is a perspective view of a suspension member for use in a room divider system with a slidable room divider according to one embodiment,

figure 14b is a cross-sectional view of a room divider system with a slidable room divider according to one embodiment,

figure 15a shows a first stage of an assembly sequence for assembling two panels into a room divider system according to one embodiment,

figure 15b shows a second stage of the assembly sequence for assembling two panels into a room divider system according to one embodiment,

figure 15c shows a third stage of an assembly sequence for assembling two panels into a room divider system according to one embodiment,

figure 16a shows an L-shaped assembly support according to one embodiment,

FIG. 16b illustrates an assembly support according to one embodiment.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 and 2 show a panel 200 of a room divider and a part of the panel 200 of a room divider (fig. 2) for a room divider system 100 according to an embodiment. The panel 200 preferably comprises a hollow plate material. The hollow board material comprises two parallel sheets 210, 215. The sheets 210, 215 may include lignocellulosic fibers. Thus, the sheet may be a chipboard sheet, a fibreboard sheet, an MDF board sheet, an HDF board sheet or a cardboard sheet. In particular, the sheet may be a paper sheet, such as a cardboard sheet. The surface weight of the paperboard sheet may be 200g/m²To 800g/m²E.g. 400g/m²To 700g/m². Furthermore, the sheet may be a laminate comprising a paper sheet as well as other layers, such as a metal foil and/or a plastic film. As recognized by those skilled in the art, paper is a relatively thin material made by pressing together wet fibers of cellulose pulp derived from wood, rags, or grass and drying it into a flexible sheet. Cellulose pulp is usually derived from wood. Paper is generally more flexible than other fiber boards comprising lignocellulosic fibers. For continuous production of panels of room dividers it is preferred if the sheet is flexible. The sheet may be 0.1mm to 5mm thick, such as 0.3mm to 3mm thick or, 0.5mm to 2mm thick. First sheet 210 and second sheet 215 are separated by a plurality of spacing members 220 disposed between first sheet 210 and second sheet 220. The spacing member 220 is connected to the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215. The spacing member 220 may be connected to the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 by means of an adhesive, such as a melt glue. The spacing member 220 comprises a paper strip extending meandering between two parallel sheets 210, 215 in a perpendicular manner to the extension of the parallel sheets 210, 215. To provide a rigid panel and enable attachment of connector 300, a batten 230 is disposed between first sheet 210 and second sheet 215. The slats 230 includeA plurality of strips 238 on top of this. The strips 238 are attached to each other, typically by means of an adhesive, to form a solid panel 230 comprising multiple layers of strips 238. The tapes are paper tapes. The slats 230 are arranged such that the strips 238 are arranged perpendicular to the extension of the parallel sheets 210, 215. The first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 are coated with a fabric 270 on the outer surface 212 of the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 1a, the panel comprises a first slat 231 and a second slat 232. The first and second slats 231, 232 are arranged in parallel between the first and second sheets 210, 215. Furthermore, they are connected to the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 by means of an adhesive, such as a melt glue. The first and second slats 231, 232 are disposed along

opposite edges

211, 216 of the hollow sheet material. As can be observed in fig. 2a and 2b, the fabric 270 may be folded over the first slat 231. Similarly, fabric 270 may be folded over second panel 238 at the opposite edge of the hollow sheet material. Further, the first sheet 210 and/or the second sheet 215 may also be folded over the first panel 231. Similarly, the first sheet 210 and/or the second sheet 215 may be folded over the second panel 232. The splice 271 can be arranged along an edge of the hollow sheet material, as shown in fig. 2 b. The splice 271 may also be disposed on the outer surface 212 of the first sheet 210 and/or the second sheet 215. If the splice 271 is disposed on the outer surface 212 of the first and/or second sheets 210, 215, the splice 271 may be disposed on the first or second panel 231, 231.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 1a, the panel further comprises a third panel 233 and a fourth panel 234. The third strip 233 and the fourth strip 234 are arranged in parallel between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215. Furthermore, the third strip 233 and the fourth strip 234 are also connected to the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 by means of an adhesive, such as a melt glue. The third and

fourth panels

233, 234 form a first channel 241 with the first and second sheets 210, 215 therebetween. As shown in fig. 3a, the first channel 241 may receive the bearing 800.

According to another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1b, the panel further comprises a fifth slat 235. The fifth panel 235 is disposed between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215. Furthermore, the fifth strip 235 is arranged parallel to the first strip 231. The fifth panel 235 is connected to the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 by means of an adhesive, such as a melt glue. The fifth strip 235 and the first strip 231 form a second channel 242 with the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 therebetween. Further, the panel includes a sixth slat 236. The sixth slat 236 is disposed between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215. Furthermore, the sixth slat 236 is arranged in parallel with the second slat 232. The sixth strip 236 is connected to the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 by means of an adhesive, such as a melt glue. The sixth and second slats 236, 232 form a third channel 243 with the first and second sheets 210, 215 therebetween.

As shown in fig. 3a to 3c, a plurality of panels 200 may be assembled into the room divider system 100. In fig. 3a, three panels 200 are shown assembled adjacently. It should be understood that any number of panels 200 less than or greater than three may be connected to each other. The panel 200 is held in an upright position by a support 800, which can be seen in detail in fig. 4 a. Furthermore, an adjustable foot 900 is provided on the lower end to provide stability and adjustability with respect to the surface on which the room divider system 100 rests, the adjustable foot 900 being seen in detail in fig. 4 b. The adjustable feet 900 may be conventional threaded feet, with the adjustable feet 900 connected to each panel such that rotation of each foot 900 changes the protrusion of the foot from the underside of the panel 200.

As shown in fig. 3a, the respective panels 200 are connected to each other via attachment members 700a attached to the connector 300, respectively, the attachment members 700a being visible in detail in fig. 5a and 5 b. The attachment members 700a may be placed on the assembled panels, holding the panels together and covering any gaps between adjacent panels. As will be discussed below, the attachment member 700a may have an attachment element 708, the attachment element 708 connecting to the connector 300 and generating a force on the connector 300, thereby holding the panels together. As discussed with respect to fig. 2a and 2b, the fabric 270 may be folded over the edges of each panel. As shown in fig. 3a, when the panels are pushed together edge-to-edge, the fabric on the edges of each panel may be compressed and held in that compressed position by the retention force provided by the attachment members 700 a. This ensures that there is no visible space between adjacently assembled panels. Furthermore, by pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from passing between the panels as the gap has been closed. Thus, the noise cancellation effect of the panels assembled as a room divider system is improved. This is advantageous, for example, in that an open office area is divided into workstations by a room divider system.

As shown in fig. 3b, a plurality of panels 200 may alternatively be assembled in an L-shape. The individual panels 200 are connected to each other via attachment members 700b attached to the connector 300, which attachment members 700b can be seen in detail in fig. 5 c. Similar to the arrangement shown in fig. 3a, the attachment members 700b may be placed on the assembled panels, thereby holding the panels together and covering any gaps between adjacent panels. The attachment member 700b may have an attachment element 708, the attachment element 708 connecting to the connector 300 and generating a force on the connector 300, thereby holding the panels together. As the panels are pushed together, the fabric on each panel may be compressed and held in that compressed position by the retention force provided by the attachment members 700 b. In this case, the holding force will be carried by the attachment element 708 and the walls of the U-shaped portion of the attachment member 700 b. Furthermore, as disclosed with respect to fig. 3a, an adjustable foot 900 is provided on the lower end to provide stability and adjustability with respect to the surface on which the room divider system 100 rests. Also shown in fig. 3b is assembly support 1100a (fig. 16a shows an enlarged view of support 1100 a). The assembly support 1100a has two U-shaped profile-like portions arranged perpendicularly to each other, i.e. the assembly support 1100a is L-shaped. The assembly support 1100a is used to secure, i.e. hold in place, the first panel 200a during assembly of the panels 200 into the room divider system 100. Once the first panel 200a has been positioned alongside the second panel 200b on the attachment member 700b adjacent to the floor, the assembly support 1100a prevents the first panel 200a from tipping over before being secured by the upper attachment member 700b because the first U-shaped profile portion engages with the first panel 200a and the second U-shaped profile portion engages with the second panel 200 b.

As shown in fig. 3c, a plurality of panels 200 may also be assembled in a T-shape. In some embodiments, two panels 200 may be assembled vertically such that a first panel is assembled with an edge adjacent to a central portion of a second panel. In other embodiments, similar to the panel shown in fig. 3a, three panels 200 may be assembled such that a first panel and a second panel are assembled adjacently and a third panel is assembled perpendicular to the first and second panels such that the edge is adjacent to the joint between the first and second panels. The individual panels 200 are connected to each other via attachment members 700c attached to the connector 300, which attachment members 700c can be seen in detail in fig. 5 d. Similar to the arrangement shown in fig. 3a and 3b, the attachment members 700c may be seated on the assembled panels, thereby holding the panels together and covering any gaps between adjacent panels. The attachment member 700c may have an attachment element 708, the attachment element 708 connecting to the connector 300 and generating a force on the connector 300, thereby holding the panels together. As the panels are pushed together, the fabric on each panel may be compressed and held in that compressed position by the retention force provided by attachment members 700 c. In the case of a first panel assembled with the edges adjacent to the central portion of the second panel, the holding force will be carried by the attachment elements of the first portion of the attachment member 700c and the walls of the U-shaped portion of the second portion of the attachment member 700 c. In the case where the first and second panels are assembled adjacently and the third panel is assembled vertically with the edge adjacent to the joint between the first and second panels, the holding force will be carried by the attachment element of each leg of the attachment member 700 c. Furthermore, as disclosed in relation to fig. 3a, an adjustable foot 900 is provided on the lower end, the adjustable foot 900 serving to provide stability and adjustability to the surface on which the room divider system 100 rests.

Fig. 4a shows a bearing 800 according to an embodiment. The bearing 800 has a stem 802 received in a first channel 241. Furthermore, the support 800 has a foot 804, the foot 804 extending perpendicular to the extension of the bar 802 and perpendicular to the extension of the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 supporting the panel in an upright position. The feet 804 may be provided with adjustable feet (not shown) to facilitate leveling out any unevenness in the floor, resulting in the panels being in a vertical horizontal position. For example, the adjustable foot 900 as described with respect to fig. 4b may be screwed into a corresponding portion of the foot 804.

Fig. 4b shows an adjustable foot 900 according to an embodiment. The adjustable foot 900 has a threaded rod 902, the threaded rod 902 being configured to be received in a corresponding portion of the connector 300, the profile 600 or the attachment member 700 of the room divider system 100. The threaded rods 902 are configured such that rotation of each foot 900 changes the protrusion of the foot 900 from the lower side of the panel 200. In addition, the adjustable foot 900 has a foot 904, the foot 904 being configured to support the panel 200 in an upright position.

Referring to fig. 5a, a first embodiment of an attachment member 700 is shown. The attachment member 700a comprises a generally elongate member having a generally U-shaped cross-section that extends continuously along an axis. This allows the attachment member 700a to be placed over the adjacent assembled panels, as shown in fig. 3a, thereby holding the panels together and covering the gap between adjacent panels. The first end 724 of the attachment member 700a is positioned to fit over the first panel. The second end 726 of the attachment member 700a is positioned to fit over the second panel. Thus, increased stability is provided to the connection between the two panels. The generally U-shaped cross-section of the attachment member 700a allows the attachment member 700a to be configured to exert a clamping force on a respective panel when fitted thereon. The attachment member 700a may be elastically deformable such that the attachment member 700a may be deformed to fit over an adjacently assembled panel and then provide a clamping force on the panel when the attachment member 700a returns to its original form so as to provide a secure connection. In some embodiments, the attachment member 700a is configured to be connectable to the top of the first and second panels by a snap fit provided by the U-shaped cross-section of the attachment member 700 a.

The attachment member 700a includes a plurality of threaded portions 702 formed in a top surface 706 of the attachment member 700 a. The threaded portion 702 may allow for attachment of additional elements, including corresponding threads that may be screwed into the threaded portion 702. The additional element may be, for example, an adjustable foot 900 or a suspension member 1200 as disclosed with respect to fig. 14a and 14 b.

The attachment member 700a may also include a plurality of holes 704 formed through a top surface 706 of the attachment member 700 a. These holes 704 provide clearance for insertion of a fastening element (not shown). A fastening element may be connected to the connecting element 304 of the connector 300 to secure the attachment member 700a in place, as will be explained with respect to fig. 6 and 7. These holes 704 may alternatively provide clearance for insertion of additional elements that may be connected to the connecting element 304 of the connector 300, such as the adjustable foot 900 or the suspension member 1200.

The attachment member 700a further includes a plurality of attachment elements 708 (not shown in fig. 5a), the plurality of attachment elements 708 being configured to be inserted into corresponding portions of the connector 300. The structure and function of the attachment element 708 will be described in more detail with reference to fig. 5 b. In some embodiments, the attachment member 700a includes a threaded portion 702, an aperture 704, and an attachment element 708 corresponding to each panel to which it is to be attached. However, it will be understood that any combination of threaded portion 702, aperture 704, and attachment element 708 may be used to achieve the proper function of attachment member 700 a.

Referring to fig. 5b, the attachment member 700a is shown in cross-section. As described above, the attachment member 700a includes a plurality of attachment elements 708. The attachment elements 708 are configured to be inserted into receiving portions associated with respective panels, as will be discussed below. The receiving portion may be a connector receiving portion associated with connector 300 or a profile receiving portion associated with profile 600. Attachment elements 708 each include a generally cylindrical portion 710 extending away from top surface 706 of attachment element 700 a. In some embodiments, the generally cylindrical portion 710 may be open around at least a portion of its circumference such that the generally cylindrical portion 710 has a semi-tubular form. In some embodiments, the end of the attachment element 708 furthest from the top surface 706 of the attachment member 700a includes a generally tapered portion 711 to enable easier insertion into the receiving portion. The attachment element 708 is configured to exert a retaining force on the receiving portion when inserted. This is achieved by a snap fit between the attachment element 708 and the receiving portion. The receiving portion may be configured to elastically deform upon insertion of the attachment element 708 and then provide a retaining force on the attachment element 708 when the receiving portion returns to its original form in order to provide a secure connection. Alternatively, the generally cylindrical portion 710 may be configured to elastically deform when inserted and then provide a retaining force on the receiving portion when the generally cylindrical portion 710 returns to its original form. Each generally cylindrical portion 710 may also include a notch 712 to secure the snap fit between the cylindrical portion 710 and the receiving portion. The connection is held in place by the engagement of the notch 712 with the corresponding portion of the receiving portion, as will be explained with respect to fig. 6a, 6b, 7c and 11-13. This provides an additional or alternative means for connecting the attachment member 700a to the panel to which the attachment member 700a is attached. For example, when attachment element 708 is used to connect attachment element 700a to a panel, hole 704 is left empty for connecting additional elements, such as adjustable foot 900 or suspension member 1200. The location of the attachment element 708 may correspond to the location of the threaded portion 702. The cylindrical portion 710 of the attachment member may be configured to receive a component that may be screwed into the threaded portion 702. For example, the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 710 may also be threaded to receive a component having corresponding threads. In this way, additional components may be connected to the attachment member 700 a. An example of an attachment member 700a assembled with the connector 300 is shown in fig. 11a and 11 b.

The attachment member 700 may have other shapes than the elongated form shown in fig. 5a and 5 b. This may facilitate assembly of the panel 200 in different configurations, such as those shown in fig. 3b and 3 c. Two examples of alternative attachment members 700 are shown in fig. 5 c-5 f.

Referring to fig. 5c, a third embodiment of an attachment member 700 is shown in partial cross-section. In this embodiment, the attachment member 700b has an L-shape. That is, attachment member 700b includes first leg 714 and second leg 716 shown in cross-section joined at apex 722 (shown in fig. 5d and 5 e). In this embodiment, the

leg portions

714, 716 are joined at a 90 ° angle. This allows two panels to be attached to each other vertically as shown in fig. 3b, with the first leg 714 attached to the first panel and the second leg 716 attached to the second panel. Similar to the attachment member 700a shown in fig. 5a and 5b, the

leg portions

714, 716 of the attachment member 700b have a generally U-shaped cross-section. In some embodiments, the attachment member 700b of fig. 5c includes a threaded portion 702, an aperture 704, and an attachment element 708 corresponding to each panel to which it is to be attached. Thus, each of the first and

second leg portions

714, 716 shown in fig. 5c includes a threaded portion 702, an aperture 704, and an attachment element 708. However, it should be understood that any combination of threaded portion 702, aperture 704, and attachment element 708 may be used to achieve the appropriate function of attachment member 700 b. An example of an L-shaped attachment member 700b assembled with the connector 300 is shown in fig. 12a and 12 b.

The L-shaped attachment members 700b may be configured to accommodate different corner arrangements of the panel 200 depending on the manner in which the panel is assembled. As shown in fig. 5d, the first panel 200a is positioned at a right angle beside the second panel 200 b. The panels are positioned such that long side 240a of first panel 200a is in contact with short side 250b of second panel 200 b. This means that the receiving portion 326 of the first panel 200a configured to receive the attachment element 708 is closer to the apex 260 of the assembly than the receiving portion 326 of the second panel 200 b. Thus, the attachment member 700b is configured such that the attachment element 708 of the first leg 714 (in this case indicated by the position of the corresponding threaded portion 702) is closer to the apex 722 of the attachment member 700b than the attachment element 708 of the second leg 716 (also indicated by the position of the corresponding threaded portion 702). It will be understood that the receiving portion 326 may equally be the receiving portion 606 of the profile 600 attached to the respective panel.

In fig. 5e the first panel 200a is placed at right angles beside the second panel 200b, but now the panels are placed such that the short side 250a of the first panel 200a is in contact with the long side 240b of the second panel 200 b. This means that the receiving portion 326 of the second panel 200b is closer to the apex 260 of the assembly than the receiving portion 326 of the first panel 200 a. Thus, the attachment member 700b is configured such that the attachment element 708 of the second leg portion 716 (in this case indicated by the position of the corresponding threaded portion 702) is closer to the apex 722 of the attachment member 700b than the attachment element 708 of the first leg portion 714 (also indicated by the position of the corresponding threaded portion 702). It will be appreciated that the attachment member 700b as shown in fig. 5 c-5 e may be suitably rotated to accommodate differently oriented corners. It will be understood that the receiving portion 326 may equally be the receiving portion 606 of the profile 600 attached to the respective panel.

Referring to fig. 5f, a fourth embodiment of the attachment member 700 is shown in cross-section. In this embodiment, the attachment member 700c has a T-shape. That is, the attachment member 700c includes a first leg 718 and a second leg 720, wherein the second leg 720 is joined at one end to a central portion of the first leg 718 at a 90 ° angle. It should be appreciated that to form a T-shaped attachment member, the second leg 720 may be joined to the first leg 718 at one end at any location between the two ends of the first leg 718. Fig. 5f shows a cross-section of the attachment member 700c through the central axis of the second leg 720. This configuration allows two panels 200 to be attached to each other perpendicularly at a central portion of one of the two panels 200 as shown in fig. 3c, with the first leg 718 attached to the first panel and the second leg 720 attached to the second panel. In this embodiment, since the attachment member 700c is attached at the central portion of the first panel where the connector 300 or profile 600 is not present, only the second leg 720 comprises the threaded portion 702, the hole 704 and the attachment element 708. However, it will be understood that any combination of threaded portion 702, aperture 704, and attachment element 708 may be used to achieve the appropriate function of attachment member 700 c. An example of a T-shaped attachment member 700c assembled with the connector 300 is shown in fig. 13a and 13 b.

In some embodiments, the attachment member 700c may be configured to attach to three panels 200. In these embodiments, the first leg 718 may include two attachment elements 708 at each end. The two attachment elements 708 may be configured to attach to two separate panels arranged adjacently along the axis of the first leg 718. The second leg 720 may then be attached to a third panel arranged perpendicular to the first and second panels.

The different types of attachment members shown in fig. 5a to 5f allow panels to be assembled in different configurations to form different types of dividers, for example as shown in fig. 3a to 3 c. One skilled in the art will appreciate that different types of attachment members may be used to create different configurations. For example, in some embodiments, an X-shaped attachment member 700 may be provided to assemble four panels at right angles to each other, or two panels perpendicular to a third panel on both sides of the third panel. In some embodiments, the attachment member 700 may be implemented with legs disposed at any suitable angle, for example, the attachment member 700 has a 45 ° bend. In some embodiments, the attachment member 700 may include a hinge such that the attachment member 700 is adjustable.

It should be understood that each support 800 and/or each attachment member 700a-700 d and/or each adjustable foot 900 need to be securely attached to each panel 200. The room divider system 100 shown in fig. 6a and 6b achieves this by providing an interface device 1000, the interface device 1000 comprising a connector 300 that can be attached to a slat 230 of each panel 200. Fig. 6a shows an exploded view of the room divider system 100, while fig. 6b shows the room divider system 100 with the engagement means 1000 mounted to the panel 200. The joining device 1000 comprises a connector 300 that can be attached to the slats 230 by means of fasteners 400. The joining device 1000 may also include a profile 600 and/or a washer 500.

As shown in fig. 6a, the connector 300 is attached to the short side 230b of the slat 230. The connector 300 is attached by means of a fastener 400, such as a screw, inserted into the strip 230, for example the first strip 231. Further, another connector 300 may be attached to the second panel 232 at an end of the second panel 232. However, the connector 300 may be attached to any of the

slats

230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236 of the panel 200. In the embodiment shown in fig. 1b, the connector 300 may preferably be attached to the first and second slats 231, 232, respectively.

In fig. 6a, the connector 300 is depicted as part of the engagement means 1000 of the room divider system 100. Connector 300 forms a rigid structure for attaching the associated device to the panel, as connector 300 is at least partially inserted into a cavity formed between first sheet 210 and second sheet 215 of panel 200, and then securely attached to sidewall 230a of slat 230. Preferably, the connector 300 is disposed on the first and second panels 230 disposed along the

edges

211, 216 of the panel 200. The connector 300 may also be arranged on the third and

fourth slats

233, 234 or any

other slat

230, 233, 234, on the panel 200. Fastener 400 attaches connector 300 to lath 230 through opening 314 in angled surface 324 on main portion 302 of connector 300. The main portion 302 is substantially cuboid in shape and preferably substantially corresponds in width to the distance between the sheets 210, 215. Thus, the main portion 302 includes a base wall 308 having a substantially rectangular shape and four

side walls

306, 310, 312 extending perpendicularly from the base wall 308. An opening 322 is disposed opposite bottom wall 308, which when attached allows access to the interior of main portion 302 including fastener 400. The side wall 312 is configured to be disposed adjacent the slat 230, and the bottom wall 308 and the vertically inner surface of the side wall 312 are separated by an inclined surface 324. The sloped surface 324 forms the portion of the sidewall 312 closest to the bottom wall 308. The rear surface 320 is arranged on the other side of the wall 312 with respect to the inclined surface 324 and is intended to face the side wall 230a of the slat 230. The rear surface 320 is configured to abut the side wall 230a of the slat 230 when the connector 230 is mounted to the side wall 230 a.

The opening 314 in the inclined surface 324 preferably extends substantially perpendicular to the inclined surface 324 to the other side of the wall 312 and thus through the rear surface 320. Thus, the fastener 400, preferably a screw, is screwed into the slat 230 at an angle α (shown in fig. 9) with respect to the longitudinal extension of the slat 230. The angle α is preferably greater than 0 °, more particularly greater than 45 °, such as greater than 45 ° and up to 75 °, and in one embodiment is approximately 60 °. In other words, the inclined surface 324 faces upward relative to the opening and toward the upper edge adjacent the opening 322 of the wall 310, where the wall 310 is opposite the inclined surface 324. Thus, fastener 400 will be arranged such that head 402 of fastener 400 is more easily accessible through opening 322 by a suitable tool, such as a screwdriver. The upper edge adjacent to opening 322 of sidewall 310 may serve as a support for a screwdriver to facilitate proper alignment with fastener 400. Another advantage of the angled fastener arrangement formed by the angled surfaces 324 is that longer fasteners 400 can be used without penetrating the other side of the slats 230, thereby increasing the load that can be applied to the connector 300.

The connecting element 304 is arranged in a bottom wall 308 of the main portion 302 of the connector 300. The bottom wall 308 may comprise a cavity 309 for receiving a connecting element, as shown in fig. 7a to 7 c. The connecting element 304 is preferably a nut, but may be any other type of connector, or simply a thread disposed in the bottom wall 308. The connecting element 304 is also accessible through the opening 322 in the connector 300, and thus the connecting element 304 serves as a connection point, for example for connecting fastening elements for the attachment member 700, the adjustable foot 900 or the suspension member 1200.

Problems arise because the strip 230 optionally includes multiple strips of material 238 through which the fastener 400 must penetrate. One problem is that when screw-type fasteners are attached to the surface of such slats 230 at an angle other than 90 deg., the fasteners will tend to align with the longitudinal direction of the strip 238. This may result in the angle alpha being reduced and deviating from the desired angle to an unacceptable extent. Therefore, a gasket 500 that alleviates this effect is provided. As shown in fig. 6a and 6b, washer 500 is configured to be disposed adjacent fastener 400, with head 402 of fastener 400 providing a compressive force to one side of washer 500. As further explained with respect to fig. 8-10, gasket 500 includes features configured to resist the possible effects of strip 238 making up strip 230.

Also shown in fig. 6a and 6b is an alternative profile 600, the profile 600 having a U-shaped cross-section and a flange 602, the flange 602 being attachable to the connector 300 by means of the fastener 400. The profile 600 can be attached to each side of the panel 200 to protect and cover the opening that would otherwise be visible between the sheets 210, 215, thereby acting as a trim piece. Thus, the profile 600 allows the end user to make cuts/modifications to the panel 200 and then attach the profile 600, the profile 600 will cover the cut. Thus, the profile 600 is easy to modify, as the profile 600 will cover any eventual uneven cuts in the panel 200.

The profile 600 further comprises an opening 604, the shape of the opening 604 substantially corresponding to the opening 322 in the connector, and the opening 604 is configured to align with the opening 322 when mounted to the panel 200. Furthermore, since each panel 200 can be fitted with connectors 300 on two or more slats 230, which are all covered by a single profile 600, each profile 600 preferably comprises the same number of openings 604 as the number of possible connectors 300. Profile 600 may be used as a connector for support 800 or for adjustable foot 900.

Profile 600 further comprises a receiving portion 606. The profile receiving portion 606 is configured to receive an attachment element 708 of the attachment members 700a-700 c. As discussed with respect to fig. 5b, attachment element 708 is configured to be inserted into profile receiving portion 606. The attachment element 708 is configured to exert a retaining force on the profile receiving portion 606 when inserted. This is achieved by a snap fit between the attachment element 708 and the profile receiving portion 606. The profile receiving portion 606 can be configured to elastically deform when the attachment element 708 is inserted and then provide a retention force on the attachment element 708 when the profile receiving portion 606 returns to its original form in order to provide a secure connection. Alternatively, generally cylindrical portion 710 may be configured to elastically deform when inserted, and then when returned to its original form, generally cylindrical portion 710 provides a retention force on profile-receiving portion 606. Each generally cylindrical portion 710 may also include a notch 712 such that the snap fit between the cylindrical portion 710 and the profile 600 is secure. The connection is held in place by the engagement of the notch 712 with the profile receiving portion 606. This provides an additional or alternative means for connecting the attachment member 700a to the panel to which the attachment member 700a is attached.

Furthermore, it can be observed from fig. 6b that the connector 300 is configured to be arranged adjacent to the short side 230b of the slat 230. It should be understood that although only one short side 230b of one strip 230 is shown, the other opposite short side 230b of each strip 230 may also be fitted with the connector 300. Further, the connectors may be attached not only to the ends of the slats, but also to the first sheet 210 and/or the second sheet 215. This may be used to provide a stronger attachment of the connector. This may be beneficial, particularly in embodiments where the connector is not attached to the slat by means of the fastener 400. The connector may be attached to the first sheet and/or the second sheet by means of an adhesive and/or by ultrasonic welding.

In order to relieve some of the load exerted on the fastener 400 and to increase the load capacity of the connector 300, in particular in the longitudinal direction of the slats 230, a lip 318 may be provided. A lip 318 protrudes from the wall 312, more particularly from an upper edge of the wall 312 adjacent to the opening 322. The lip 318 protrudes outwardly from the rear surface 320 in the direction of the slat 230, so that the lip 318 may be disposed against the short side 230b of the slat 230.

Referring now to fig. 7a, one embodiment of a connector 300 is shown. Connector 300a includes a cavity 309 and connecting element 304 may fit within cavity 309. The main portion 302 of the connector 300a, including the cavity 309, may be formed by injection molding. The connecting element 304 may then be inserted into the cavity 309 to connect fastening elements for the attachment member 700, the adjustable foot 900, or the suspension member 1200. The connector 300a is preferably made of a polymeric material, such as a plastic material. However, the connector 300a may also be made of a metal material, such as aluminum.

As shown in fig. 6a and 6b, the connector 300a further comprises a support bar 316, the support bar 316 being configured to extend in the longitudinal direction of the slats 230 between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 of the panel 200. As shown in fig. 7a, the support bar 316 extends substantially down the rear surface 320 away from the main portion 302 of the connector 300 a. The support bars 316 serve to improve the stability of the connector 300a, as the support bars 316 distribute the resulting rotational force, the torque exerted on the connecting element 304, over a larger surface area of the sheets 210, 215 and over the slats 230. Accordingly, the support bar 316 preferably has a width corresponding to the width of the main portion 302 and thus to the distance between the sheets 210, 215.

In one embodiment of the room divider system 100, each connector 300 configured to be disposed along the bottom edge 206 of the panel 200 includes a support bar 316. The bottom edge 206 (as shown in fig. 3 a) is typically subjected to higher loads. Especially if the room divider system 100 is arranged to stand on the floor. For example, if a force is applied perpendicular to the sheets 210, 215 of the standing panel 200, that force will be received as a torque on each connector 300a connected to the panel 200. However, the connector 300 disposed along the top edge 207 may also include a support bar 316.

In fig. 7b, another embodiment of the connector 300 is shown. The connector 300b includes the same main portion 302 as that of the embodiment shown in fig. 7a, but does not include the support bar 316. The connector 300b shown in fig. 7b is advantageous for use in applications where it may be predicted that the connector 300b will not be subjected to high torque loads, and thus material may be saved by eliminating the support bar 316. Such a connector 300b is suitable for use on each slat 230 along the upper edge 207 (shown in fig. 3 a) of the panel 200, for example. The connector 300b is preferably made of a polymeric material, such as a plastic material. However, the connector 300b may also be made of a metal material, such as aluminum.

In fig. 7c, another embodiment of the connector 300 is shown. The connector 300c comprises a main part 302 similar to that of the embodiment shown in fig. 7a, but provided with an additional receiving part 326. The connector receiving portion 326 is attached to the sidewall 310 of the main portion 302 and extends from the sidewall 310. In this embodiment, the side wall 310 is inclined at an angle relative to the rear surface 320 of the connector 320. The connector receiving portion 326 includes a bore 327 and a sleeve portion 328. As discussed with respect to fig. 5b, the attachment element 708 is configured to be inserted into the connector receiving portion 326. The attachment element 708 is configured to exert a retention force on the connector receiving portion 326 when inserted. This is achieved by a snap fit between the attachment element 708 and the connector receiving portion 326. The connector receiving portion 326 may be configured to elastically deform when the attachment element 708 is inserted and then provide a retaining force on the attachment element 708 when the connector receiving portion 326 returns to its original form so as to provide a secure connection. Alternatively, generally cylindrical portion 710 may be configured to elastically deform when inserted, and then generally cylindrical portion 710 provides a retention force on connector receiving portion 326 when generally cylindrical portion 710 returns to its original form. Each generally cylindrical portion 710 may also include a notch 712 such that a snap fit between the cylindrical portion 710 and the connector 300 is secure. The bottom edge of the sleeve portion 328 may engage with the notch 712 of the attachment element 708 to ensure a secure connection. The cross-section of the bore 327 of the connector receiving portion 326 may be generally oval to provide some tolerance for alignment of the attachment member 700 and insertion of the attachment element 708. Alternatively, the connector receiving portion 326 may be implemented with an open profile. That is, the bore 327 and the sleeve portion 328 are only partially closed, thereby forming a semi-tubular shape. In this manner, increased tolerances are provided for alignment of the attachment member 700 and insertion of the attachment element 708 while still providing an engagement surface for the attachment element 708.

Furthermore, the support bars 316 of the connector 300c in the embodiment of fig. 7c may also be different from those shown in the embodiment of fig. 7 a. In this embodiment, similar to the embodiment of fig. 7a, the support bar 316 extends substantially down the rear surface 320 away from the main portion 302 of the connector 300. However, the support bar 316 of this embodiment tapers along the extension of the support bar 316 to meet the bottom edge 330. This tapering allows connector 300c to be inserted into the cavity formed between first sheet 210 and second sheet 215 of panel 200 and alongside sidewall 230a of slat 230 without compressing spacer members 220 of panel 200. By providing the taper, the connector 300c may be inserted more smoothly between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215. The support bar 316 of the connector 300c may also include a plurality of slats 332. This configuration provides sufficient structural integrity to the support rod 316 while also reducing material requirements and the overall weight of the connector 300 c. It should be understood that this configuration may also be used in the support bar 316 of the connector 300a shown in fig. 7 a. The connector 300c is preferably made of a polymeric material, such as a plastic material. However, the connector 300c may also be made of a metal material, such as aluminum.

Turning now to fig. 8a and 8b, a gasket 500 is shown. As mentioned, the washer 500 is configured to be disposed against the inclined surface 324. Of course, to receive the fastener 400, the washer 500 also includes an aperture 502. The aperture 502 is aligned with the opening 314 in the angled surface 324. To prevent fastener 400 from attaining an undesired angle α, washer 500 includes at least one mound 504 on a surface 506 of washer 500 configured to face away from inclined surface 324, i.e., on surface 506 configured to face head 402 of fastener 400. The top 508 of the at least one mound 504 is disposed only on one side of a line a parallel to the surface 506 and extending through the center of the aperture 502. Thereby creating an asymmetric contact area between washer 500 and fastener 400. The top of the hill 504 is pressed against the head 402 of the fastener 400, thereby creating a torque that resists the effect of the material of the strip 238 in the strip 230 on the fastener 400. As shown, the gasket 500 may include two mounds 504a, 504b separated by a hole 502. Further, the gasket 500 may have a rectangular shape. Preferably, the washer 500 has a shape that corresponds to the shape of the ramped surface 324 such that when seated against the ramped surface 324, the washer 500 is held in place such that the washer 500 will not rotate relative to the connector 300. This is important as it serves to hold the hill in the correct position relative to the connector 300, as will be explained further below.

To obtain the desired effect from gasket 500, gasket 500 should preferably be arranged such that line a is substantially parallel to bottom wall 308, and such that the top 508 of the at least one hill 504 is arranged on the side of gasket 500 defined by line a that is closest to bottom wall 308. That is, if line a divides gasket 500 into two sides, gasket 500 should be arranged such that the side of top 508 that includes mound 504 is closest to bottom wall 308. This arrangement is illustrated in fig. 9, where at least one hill 504 is shown disposed below the longitudinal axis of fastener 400, i.e., disposed closer to bottom wall 308 in connector 300. In the manner in which fastener 400 is disposed relative to lath 230 in fig. 9, there will be a tendency for angle a to decrease as fastener 400 is threaded through strip 238. The top 508 of the hill 504 pushes against the head 402 so that a reaction torque is created, thus mitigating the natural tendency of the fastener 400 to deviate from the desired angle a. The washer 500 is preferably made of a metallic material, such as steel or aluminum, but the washer 500 may also be made of a polymeric material, such as a plastic material.

In one embodiment shown in fig. 10, where a separate washer 500 is not used, the washer is incorporated in the inclined surface, i.e., the mounds 504, 504a, 504b may instead be arranged on the inclined surface 324. The top 508 of the mounds 504a, 504b will be arranged in the manner described with respect to the gasket 500 alone, i.e., in such a manner that the top 508 is disposed below the central axis of the bore 314, i.e., disposed closer to the bottom wall 308.

Fig. 11a and 11b show an elongated attachment member 700a as shown in fig. 5a and 5b, the attachment member 700a being assembled to two adjacent panels 200a to 200b by using respective connectors 300. Fig. 11a is an exploded cross-sectional view of a room divider system comprising an elongated attachment member 700a according to an embodiment. As described with respect to fig. 6a and 6b, connector 300 is attached to laths 230 of each panel 200 by fasteners 400. In this case, the connector is the connector 300c as shown in fig. 7 c. The profile 600 may be attached to the top edge of each panel 200 to act as a trim piece. The first end 724 of the attachment member 700a is positioned to fit over the first panel 200 a. The second end 726 of the attachment member 700a is positioned to fit over the second panel 200 b. Thus, the attachment elements 708 are positioned to generally align with the receiving portions 326 of the connectors 300c present in each panel 200. When attached, the attachment element 708 will pass through the hole 327 in the connector receiving portion 326, providing a snap fit, and the notch 712 of the attachment element 708 will engage with the bottom edge of the sleeve portion 328 of the connector receiving portion 326. Fig. 11b is a perspective cross-sectional view of an assembled room divider system comprising an elongated attachment member 700 a. As shown, the attachment elements 708 engage with the connector receiving portion 326 in a snap-fit manner, thereby securing the attachment member 700a in place. When assembled, the attachment member 700a holds the panels together and covers the slit between the two panels, as can be seen in fig. 11 a. By pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from passing between the panels as the gap has been closed. Furthermore, the stability of the assembled room divider system is improved as the panels form a common block once they are pressed together.

Fig. 12a and 12b show an L-shaped attachment member 700b as shown in fig. 5c, the attachment member 700b being assembled to two

perpendicular panels

200a, 200b by using respective connectors 300. Fig. 12a is an exploded cross-sectional view of a room divider system including an L-shaped attachment member 700a according to one embodiment. Connector 300c is attached to slats 230 of each panel 200 by fasteners 400. The profile 600 may be attached to the top edge of each panel 200 to act as a trim piece. The first leg 714 of the attachment member 700b is positioned to fit over the first panel 200 a. The second leg 716 is positioned to fit over the second panel 200 b. Thus, the attachment elements 708 are positioned to generally align with the receiving portions 326 of the connectors 300c present in each panel 200. When attached, the attachment element 708 will pass through the hole 327 in the connector receiving portion 326, providing a snap fit, and the notch 712 of the attachment element 708 will engage with the bottom edge of the sleeve portion 328 of the connector receiving portion 326. Fig. 12b is a perspective cross-sectional view of an assembled room divider system comprising L-shaped attachment members 700 b. As shown, the attachment elements 708 engage with the connector receiving portion 326 in a snap-fit manner, thereby securing the attachment member 700b in place. When assembled, the attachment member 700b holds the panels together and covers the slit between the two panels, which can be seen in fig. 12 a. By pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from passing between the panels as the gap has been closed. Furthermore, the stability of the assembled room divider system is improved as the panels form a common block once they are pressed together.

Fig. 13a and 13b show a T-shaped attachment member 700c as shown in fig. 5d, the attachment member 700a being assembled to two

perpendicular panels

200a, 200b by using respective connectors 300. Fig. 13a is an exploded cross-sectional view of a room divider system including a T-shaped attachment member 700a according to one embodiment. Connector 300c is attached to slats 230 of each panel 200 by fasteners 400. The profile 600 may be attached to the top edge of each panel 200 to act as a trim piece. The first leg 718 of the attachment member 700c is positioned to fit over a central portion of the first panel 200 a. The second leg 720 is positioned to fit over an end portion of the second panel 200 b. Since only the second leg 720 is attached to the connector 300c of the panel, only the second leg 720 includes the attachment element 708. The attachment element 708 is positioned to be generally aligned with the receiving portion 326 of the connector 300c present in the second panel 200 b. When attached, the attachment element 708 will pass through the hole 327 in the connector receiving portion 326, providing a snap fit, and the notch 712 of the attachment element 708 will engage with the bottom edge of the sleeve portion 328 of the connector receiving portion 326. Fig. 13b is a perspective cross-sectional view of an assembled room divider system including T-shaped attachment members 700 c. As shown, the attachment elements 708 engage with the connector receiving portion 326 in a snap-fit manner, thereby securing the attachment member 700c in place. When assembled, the attachment member 700c holds the panels together and covers the slit between the two panels, as can be seen in fig. 13 a. By pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from passing between the panels as the gap has been closed. Furthermore, the stability of the assembled room divider system is improved as the panels form a common block once they are pressed together.

Fig. 14a shows a suspension member 1200 for use in a room divider system with a sliding door according to an embodiment. Suspension member 1200a includes a connecting portion 1202 and a suspension portion 1204. The connection portion 1202 allows the suspension member 1200 to be attached to the connection element 304 disposed in the bottom wall 308 of the main portion 302 of the connector 300, as discussed above. In this embodiment, the connection portion 1202 is a bolt and the connection element 304 is a nut, but any suitable type of connection may be formed between the connector and the suspension member 1200. The connecting element 304 is accessible through an opening 322 in the connector 300. Although not shown in fig. 14a, the connecting element 304 may also be accessible through a hole 704 in the attachment element 700. The suspension 1204 is configured to be attached to a rail 1206 (shown in fig. 14 b), the rail 1206 being attached to a wall or ceiling of a room. The hanging portion 1204 may be slidably attached to the track such that the panel may slide along the track to provide a slidable room divider, such as a sliding door.

Fig. 15a to 15c show the assembly of the first panel 200a adjacent to the second panel 200b into the room divider system 100. As shown in fig. 15a, the first panel 200a is first positioned in an upright position on the floor. Prior to positioning the first panel 200a on the floor, an elongated attachment member 700a (shown in fig. 5a and 5 b) is attached to a lower corner of the first panel 200 a. The lower elongated attachment member 700a may be connected to the first panel 200a via the connector 300 or the profile 600 (not shown), as already described herein above, e.g. with respect to fig. 11a to 11 b. The lower elongated attachment member 700a may be provided with an adjustable foot 900. Once positioned in an upright position on the floor, the attachment element 708 of the first attachment member 700a is accessible from above, as can be seen on the right-hand side of fig. 15 a. In order to allow assembly of a room divider system 100 comprising a plurality of panels 200, it is important that the panels 100 can be assembled in an upright position. Further, it is also advantageous that the adjustable foot 900 can be positioned on the floor before the panel 200 is positioned on top of the adjustable foot 900, as the adjustable foot 900 will be difficult to install after the panel is assembled.

In assembling the first and

second panels

200a, 200b into the room divider system 100, the second panel 200b is positioned adjacent to the first panel 200b over the attachment element 708, as shown in fig. 15 a. When the

panels

200a, 200b are positioned adjacent to each other, the assembly support 1100b is positioned between the

panels

200a, 200b (fig. 16b shows an enlarged view of the support 1100 b). The assembly support 1100b has two U-shaped profile-shaped portions facing in opposite directions. The U-shaped profile sections are arranged on the same base plate, i.e. the parallel sides in the U-shaped profile sections extend from the same base plate.

Subsequently, the second panel 200b is moved downwards such that the attachment element 708 engages with the connector 300 or profile 600 (not shown) of the second panel 200b, thereby holding the lower ends of the first and

second panels

200a, 200b in the assembled position, as shown in fig. 15 b. In this position, the assembly support 1100b prevents the second panel 200b from tipping because the first U-shaped profile portion engages with the first panel 200a and the second U-shaped profile portion engages with the second panel 200 b.

In order to keep the upper end of the first panel 200a and the upper end of the second panel 200b in the assembled position, a second elongated attachment member 700a is attached to the upper connector 300 or profile 600 of each

panel

200a, 200b according to the principles described above with reference to fig. 11a, 11 b. Prior to attaching the second elongate attachment member 700a, as shown in fig. 15c, the first and

second panels

200a, 200b are pushed together to compress the fabric 270 (see fig. 15a) folded over the slats 230 (not shown) of hollow sheet material of the first panel 200 a. In fig. 2b, the fabric 270 is shown folded over the slats 230. The fabric 270 of the second panel 200b is also compressed. Thus, fig. 15c illustrates the situation just before the attachment member 700a is attached.

Also shown in fig. 15c is a support 800. The support adds additional stability to the assembled room divider system 100. During assembly, there may be only one support 800, for example, on the first panel 200a, to allow the first panel 200a to stand independently when the second panel 200b is assembled. This makes the assembly process easier.

Since each panel 200 may comprise

several slats

230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, each panel 200 may be fitted with several engaging means 1000. These engagement means may be installed during manufacture or can be installed by the customer.

The hollow board material may be produced as disclosed in WO2012/048738, WO2012/048738 being incorporated herein in its entirety by reference. The fabric may be coated on the hollow board material after assembly. Alternatively, the fabric may be coated on the sheet prior to assembly. According to an embodiment, the nonwoven fabric is a carded and cross-lapped needle-punched nonwoven fabric. Preferably, the nonwoven fabric is also thermally bonded. According to an alternative embodiment, the fabric is a nonwoven spunbond fabric. Nonwoven spunbond fabrics can be spun directly onto sheets before or after assembly into hollow board materials.

Without further elaboration, it is believed that one skilled in the art can, using the preceding description, utilize the present invention to its fullest extent. The foregoing description of the preferred specific embodiments is, therefore, to be considered as illustrative only and not in any way limiting of the disclosure.

Although the present invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments, it is not intended to be limited to the specific form set forth herein. Rather, the invention is limited only by the accompanying claims and, other embodiments than the above described are equally possible within the scope of these appended claims.

In the claims, the term "comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may possibly advantageously be combined, and the inclusion in different claims does not imply that a combination of features is not feasible and/or advantageous.

Furthermore, singular references do not exclude a plurality. The terms "a", "an", "first", "second", etc. do not exclude a plurality.

Claims

1. An attachment member (700a-700c) for attachment to first (200a) and second (200b) panels of a room divider, the attachment member comprising:

a first portion (714, 718, 724), the first portion (714, 718, 724) configured to be attached to the first panel; and

a second portion (716, 720, 726), the second portion (716, 720, 726) configured to be attached to the second panel; wherein

The first portion (714, 718, 724) and/or the second portion (716, 720, 726) comprising at least one attachment element (708), the at least one attachment element (708) configured to attach to a receiving portion (326, 606) associated with a respective panel; and is

The attachment members (700a-700c) are configured to hold the first panel (200a) and the second panel (200b) in an assembled position.

2. The attachment member (700a-700c) of claim 1, wherein the at least one attachment element (708) is configured to exert a retaining force on the corresponding receiving portion (326, 606), the retaining force configured to retain the first and second panels together in the assembled position.

3. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each attachment element (708) comprises a notch (712), the notch (712) being configured to engage with the respective receiving portion (326, 606).

4. The attachment member (700a-700c) of claim 3, wherein the receiving portion is part of a connector (300) associated with the respective panel, and the notch (712) is configured to engage with a sleeve portion (328) of the receiving portion (326).

5. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to any preceding claim, wherein each attachment element (708) comprises a substantially cylindrical portion (710), the substantially cylindrical portion (710) being configured to be inserted into the receiving portion (326, 606).

6. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to any preceding claim, wherein each attachment element (708) comprises a substantially conical portion (711) at one end, preferably at an insertion end, the attachment element (708) being inserted into the receiving portion (326, 606) through the substantially conical portion (711).

7. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to any preceding claim, wherein each attachment element (708) is configured to engage with the receiving portion (326, 606) in a snap-fit manner.

8. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to any preceding claim, wherein the first portion (714, 718, 724) and the second portion (716, 720, 726) each have a generally U-shaped cross-section, such that the first portion (714, 718, 724) and the second portion (716, 720, 726) are configured to fit over respective panels.

9. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to claim 8, wherein the first portion (714, 718, 724) and the second portion (716, 720, 726) are configured to exert a clamping force on the respective panel when fitted thereon, preferably the first portion and the second portion are configured to be connectable to a top of the respective panel by means of a snap fit.

10. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to any preceding claim, wherein the first portion (714, 718, 724) and/or the second portion (716, 720, 726) comprises at least one hole (704) for receiving a fastening element for attachment to a corresponding connector (300) of a respective panel.

11. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to any preceding claim, wherein the first portion (714, 718, 724) and/or the second portion (716, 720, 726) comprises at least one threaded portion (702).

12. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to any preceding claim, wherein the first portion (714, 718, 724) and the second portion (716, 720, 726) are arranged consecutively along a common axis, such that the first portion (714, 718, 724) and the second portion (716, 720, 726) are attachable to the first panel (200a) and the second panel (200b) when the first panel and the second panel are arranged adjacent and parallel to the axis in the assembled position.

13. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to any of claims 1-11, wherein the first portion (714, 718, 724) and the second portion (716, 720, 726) are arranged at an angle with respect to each other, such that the attachment member is attachable to the first panel (200a) and the second panel (200b) when the first panel and the second panel are arranged at an angle in the assembled position.

14. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to claim 13, wherein the angle is a right angle.

15. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to claim 14, wherein the first portion (714, 718, 724) and the second portion (716, 720, 726) are arranged to meet at an apex (722), such that the attachment member is substantially L-shaped.

16. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to claim 15, wherein the attachment element (708) of the first portion (714, 718, 724) is arranged closer to the apex (722) than the attachment element (708) of the second portion (716, 720, 726), or wherein the attachment element (708) of the first portion (714, 718, 724) is arranged further away from the apex (722) than the attachment element (708) of the second portion (716, 720, 726).

17. The attachment member (700a-700c) according to claim 14, wherein the first portion (714, 718, 724) and the second portion (716, 720, 726) are arranged to meet at a central portion of the first portion such that the attachment member is substantially T-shaped, and/or wherein only the second portion (716, 720, 726) comprises an attachment element (708).

18. A room divider system, comprising:

at least a first panel (200a) and a second panel (200b), the first panel (200a) and the second panel (200b) being arranged to be connected to each other in an assembled position; and

at least one attachment member (700a-700c) according to any of claims 1-16, the attachment member (700a-700c) being arranged to be attached to the first and second panels to connect the first and second panels to each other.

19. Room divider system according to claim 18, wherein the attachment members (700a-700c) are arranged to exert a holding force on the first and second panels (200a, 200b) to hold the first and second panels (200a, 200b) together in an assembled position, the holding force preferably pressing the panels (200a, 200b) towards each other after assembly.

20. Room divider system according to claim 19, wherein at least one of the first panel (200a) and the second panel (200b) comprises an at least partially compressible surface material, such as an elastic covering material, such as a fabric, e.g. a non-woven fabric, and wherein the holding force is configured to compress the compressible surface material of the at least one panel when the attachment members (700a-700c) are attached to the first panel (200a) and the second panel (200 b).

21. The room divider system of any of claims 18-20, further comprising:

a first connector (300), the first connector (300) being attachable to the first panel (200a) by means of a first fastener (400), or the first connector (300) being attached to the first panel (200a) by means of a first fastener (400); and

a second connector (300), the second connector (300) being attachable to the second panel (200b) by means of a second fastener (400), or the second connector (300) being attachable to the second panel (200b) by means of a second fastener (400), the attachment members (700a-700c) being arranged to connect to at least one of the first connector (300) and the second connector (300), wherein,

the first connector (300) and the second connector (300) are preferably arranged in the upper end of the respective panel (200a, 200b),

the third connector (300) and the fourth connector (300) are preferably arranged in and connected to the lower end of the respective panel (200a, 200b),

a first attachment member (700a-700c) is preferably arranged for connecting to the first connector (300) and the second connector (300) to connect the panels (200a, 200b) at an upper end of the panels (200a, 200b), and

second attachment members (700a-700c) are preferably arranged for connection to the third connector (300) and the fourth connector (300) for connecting the panels (200a, 200b) at their lower ends.

22. The room divider system of any of claims 18-21, further comprising:

a first profile (600), the first profile (600) being configured to cover an edge of the first panel (200 a); and

a second profile (600), the second profile (600) being configured to cover an edge of the second panel (200 b);

wherein each profile (600) is preferably configured to be attached to a respective connector (300) and a respective panel (200) by means of a respective fastener (400).