CN113167068B

CN113167068B - Attachment member for attaching two panels of a room divider system and room divider system comprising said attachment member

Info

Publication number: CN113167068B
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: 2024-01-30
Anticipated expiration: 2039-11-08
Also published as: CN113167068A; EP3877602A4; EP3877602A1

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 be attached to a second panel, wherein the first portion and/or the second portion comprises at least one attachment element configured to be attached to a receiving portion associated with a 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 relates generally to attachment members for room dividers.

Background

In urban society, there is an increasing need to use office areas as efficiently as possible. Thus, an open office area is typically divided into workstations or office areas by room dividers to allow for 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 multiple panels attached side by side.

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

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 one another in 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. In addition, the panels may not be sufficiently secured and the room divider formed may be unstable and require a large number of support devices to keep the room divider upright.

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

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 the multi-panel room divider and ensures that the panels are firmly assembled with respect to each other.

The attachment member according to the present disclosure may comprise a generally elongated member having a generally U-shaped cross section. This allows the attachment members to be positioned 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 a corresponding panel when fitted thereto. The attachment members may be elastically deformable such that the attachment members may be deformed to fit over adjacently assembled panels and then provide a clamping force on the panels when the attachment members return to their original form so as 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 include 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 to provide a secure connection when the receiving portion resumes its original form. Alternatively, the generally cylindrical portion may be configured to elastically deform when inserted and then provide a retaining force on the connector when the generally cylindrical portion returns to its original form. Each generally cylindrical portion may also include a recess such that the snap fit between the cylindrical portion and the connector is secure. The connection is held in place by engagement of the recess with a corresponding portion of the connector. This provides an additional or alternative means for connecting the attachment member to the panel to which the attachment member 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 a corresponding threaded portion such that additional components may be connected to the attachment member.

The attachment element may be configured to apply a retention force on the corresponding connector such that the first panel and the second panel 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 retaining force provided by the attachment members and held in this compressed position. This ensures that there is no visible spacing between adjacent assembled panels. In addition, by pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from being transferred between the panels because the gap has been closed. Thus, the noise canceling effect of the panels assembled as a room divider system is improved. This is advantageous, for example, in an open office area divided into workstations by a room divider system. Furthermore, once the panels are pressed together, the stability of the assembled room divider system is improved, as the panels form a common block.

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 attachment of 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 a fastening element, wherein the fastening element may be connected to a connecting element of a connector of the panel to fasten the attachment member in place. These holes may alternatively provide a clearance for inserting an additional element, wherein the additional element may be connected to the connecting element, such as an adjustable foot or a suspension member.

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 include 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 the 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 farther 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 the two panels to be attached to each other vertically 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 the 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 be attached to a second panel, wherein the first portion and/or the second portion comprises at least one attachment element configured to be attached to a receiving portion associated with a 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, an 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 panels 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 hole for receiving a fastening element for attachment to a corresponding connector of the 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 panel and the second panel are retained in the assembled position based at least in part on the retaining force. Optionally, each attachment element includes a recess configured to engage with a corresponding receiving portion. Optionally, the receiving portion is part of a connector associated with a respective panel, and the recess is configured to engage with a sleeve portion of the receiving portion. Optionally, each attachment element includes a generally cylindrical portion configured to be inserted into the receiving portion. Optionally, each attachment element comprises a generally conical portion at one end, preferably at the insertion end, 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 continuously along a common axis such that when in the assembled position, the first and second panels are arranged adjacent and parallel to the axis, the first and second portions are attachable to the first and second panels. 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 are capable of attaching 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 element of the first portion is arranged further away from the apex than the attachment element 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 generally T-shaped. Optionally, only the second portion comprises the 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 panel and the second panel comprises an at least partially compressible surface material, such as an elastic covering material, such as a fabric, e.g. a nonwoven fabric, and the retaining force is configured to compress the compressible surface material of the at least one panel while attaching the attachment member to the first panel and the second panel. Optionally, the room divider further comprises: a first connector attachable to the first panel by means of a first fastener or attachable 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 panels, the third and fourth connectors are arranged in and connected to the lower end of the respective panels, the first attachment member is arranged for connection to the first and second connectors to connect the panels at the upper end of the panels, 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 panels.

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 gasket, wherein the second connector is attachable to the second panel via the second gasket by means of a second fastener.

The disclosed attachment member may allow panels of a room divider to be securely assembled in a variety of forms and for a variety of uses. The assembled room divider may 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, the panels of the room divider may be mounted as sliding doors, for example in a wardrobe or attached to the ceiling of a room, wherein the panels of the room divider are used to provide access to a space divided from the rest of the room.

Other advantageous features are elaborated in the embodiments disclosed herein. Further advantageous features are defined in the dependent claims.

Drawings

The invention will be further described 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 the slats for the panels of the 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 including multiple panels according to another embodiment,

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

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

figure 4b is a perspective view of an adjustable foot for connection 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 an L-shaped attachment member according to one embodiment,

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

figure 14b is a cross-sectional view of a room divider system with a sliding 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 the 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 shows an assembly support according to an embodiment.

Detailed Description

Fig. 1 and 2 illustrate a room divider panel 200 for a room divider system 100 and a portion of the room divider panel 200 (fig. 2) according to an embodiment. The panel 200 preferably comprises a hollow sheet material. The hollow panel material comprises two parallel sheets 210, 215. The sheets 210, 215 may include lignocellulosic fibers. Thus, the sheet may be a chipboard sheet, a fiberboard 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 cardboard sheet may be 200g/m ² To 800g/m ² Such as 400g/m ² To 700g/m ² . 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 thinner material made by pressing together wet fibers of cellulose pulp derived from wood, rag or grass and drying them into a flexible sheet. Cellulose pulp is typically derived from wood. Paper is generally more flexible than other fiberboard containing lignocellulosic fibers. For continuous production of the panels of the room divider, it is preferable 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. The first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 are separated by a plurality of spacing members 220 disposed between the first sheet 210 and the 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 adhesive. The spacing member 220 comprises a paper web extending in a meandering manner 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 the connector 300, the lath 230 is arranged between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215. Lath 230 includes a plurality of strips 238 arranged on top of each other. The strips 238 are attached to each other, typically by means of an adhesive, to form a solid lath 230 comprising a multi-layer strip 238. These tapes are paper tapes. The laths 230 are arranged such that the strips 238 are arranged perpendicularly 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 surfaces 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 sheet 210 and the second sheet 215. In addition, they are attached to the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 by means of an adhesive, such as a melt adhesive. The first and second slats 231, 232 are disposed along opposite edges 211, 216 of the hollow sheet material. As can be seen in fig. 2a and 2b, the fabric 270 may be folded over the first slat 231. Similarly, fabric 270 may be folded over second slat 238 at opposite edges of the hollow sheet material. In addition, the first sheet 210 and/or the second sheet 215 may also be folded over the first slat 231. Similarly, the first sheet 210 and/or the second sheet 215 may be folded over the second panel 232. The splice 271 may be arranged along the edge of the hollow sheet material as shown in fig. 2 b. Splice 271 may also be disposed on outer surface 212 of first sheet 210 and/or second sheet 215. If the splice 271 is disposed on the outer surface 212 of the first sheet 210 and/or the second sheet 215, the splice 271 may be disposed on either the first slat 231 or the second slat 231.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 1a, the panel further comprises a third slat 233 and a fourth slat 234. The third slat 233 and the fourth slat 234 are arranged in parallel between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215. In addition, the third panel 233 and the fourth panel 234 are also connected to the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 by means of an adhesive, such as a melt adhesive. The third and fourth slats 233 and 234, along with the first and second sheets 210 and 215, form a first channel 241 therebetween. As shown in fig. 3a, the first channel 241 may receive the support 800.

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

As shown in fig. 3 a-3 c, 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 more than three may be connected to one another. 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 being connected to each panel such that rotation of each foot 900 changes the protrusion of the feet 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 disposed on the assembled panels, thereby 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 that connects to the connector 300 and creates a force on the connector 300, thereby holding the panels together. As discussed with respect to fig. 2a and 2b, 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 edge of each panel may be compressed by the retaining force provided by the attachment member 700a and held in this compressed position. This ensures that there is no visible spacing between adjacently assembled panels. In addition, by pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from being transferred between the panels as the gap has been closed. Thus, the noise canceling effect of the panels assembled as a room divider system is improved. This is advantageous, for example, in that the 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, the attachment members 700b being seen in detail in fig. 5 c. Similar to the arrangement shown in fig. 3a, the attachment members 700b may be disposed 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 creating 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 by the retaining force provided by the attachment members 700b and held in this compressed position. In this case, the holding force will be carried by the attachment element 708 and the wall 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 an assembly support 1100a (fig. 16a shows an enlarged view of support 1100 a). The assembly support 1100a has two U-shaped profile portions arranged perpendicular 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 panel 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 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 the first panel 200a and the second U-shaped profile portion engages 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, the two panels 200 may be assembled vertically such that the first panel is assembled with the edges adjacent to the central portion of the second panel. In other embodiments, similar to the panels 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 panel and the second panel such that an edge is adjacent to a junction between the first panel and the second panel. 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 disposed 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 creating 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 this compressed position by the retaining force provided by the 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 retention 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 junction between the first and second panels, the retention 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, which adjustable foot 900 serves to provide stability and adjustability to the surface on which the room divider system 100 rests.

Fig. 4a shows a support 800 according to an embodiment. The support 800 has a rod 802 received in the first channel 241. In addition, support 800 has feet 804, feet 804 extending perpendicular to the extension of rods 802 and perpendicular to the extension of first sheet 210 and second sheet 215 supporting the panel in an upright position. Foot 804 may be provided with an adjustable foot (not shown) to facilitate leveling any unevenness in the floor, resulting in the panel being in a vertical, horizontal position. For example, adjustable foot 900 as described with respect to fig. 4b may be screwed into a corresponding portion of 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, profile 600, or attachment member 700 of the room divider system 100. Threaded rod 902 is configured such that rotation of each foot 900 changes the protrusion of foot 900 from the underside of panel 200. In addition, adjustable foot 900 has a foot 904, with foot 904 configured to support panel 200 in an upright position.

Referring to fig. 5a, a first embodiment of an attachment member 700 is shown. The attachment member 700a includes a generally elongated member having a generally U-shaped cross-section extending continuously along an axis. This allows the attachment member 700a to be placed on an adjacent assembled panel, 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, an 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 corresponding panel when fitted thereto. The attachment members 700a may be elastically deformable such that the attachment members 700a may be deformed to fit over adjacently assembled panels and then provide a clamping force on the panels to provide a secure connection when the attachment members 700a return to their original form. In some embodiments, the attachment member 700a is configured to be connectable to the tops 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 the 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 apertures 704 formed through the top surface 706 of the attachment member 700 a. These holes 704 provide clearance for inserting fastening elements (not shown). The fastening element may be connected to the connection 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 inserting 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 comprises a plurality of attachment elements 708 (not shown in fig. 5 a), 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 attachment elements 708 corresponding to the respective panels to which it is to be attached. However, it will be appreciated that any combination of threaded portion 702, hole 704, and attachment element 708 may be made 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 the connector 300 or a profile receiving portion associated with the profile 600. The attachment elements 708 each include a generally cylindrical portion 710 that extends away from the top surface 706 of the attachment element 700a. 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 to provide a secure connection when the receiving portion resumes its original form. 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 enable a secure snap fit between the cylindrical portion 710 and the receiving portion. As will be described with respect to fig. 6a, 6b, 7c and 11-13, the connection is held in place by engagement of the recess 712 with a corresponding portion of the receiving portion. 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, aperture 704 is left empty for connecting additional elements, such as adjustable foot 900 or suspension member 1200. The position of the attachment element 708 may correspond to the position 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 barrel portion 710 may also be threaded to receive a correspondingly threaded component. In this way, additional components may be connected to the attachment member 700a. 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 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, the attachment member 700b includes a first leg 714 and a second leg 716 joined at an apex 722 (shown in fig. 5d and 5 e) shown in cross-section. In this embodiment, the legs 714, 716 are joined at a 90 ° angle. This allows the 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 legs 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, a hole 704, and attachment elements 708 corresponding to each panel to which it is to be attached. Thus, each of the first and second legs 714, 716 shown in fig. 5c includes a threaded portion 702, a hole 704, and an attachment element 708. However, it should be appreciated that any combination of threaded portion 702, aperture 704, and attachment element 708 may be implemented to achieve the proper 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 beside the second panel 200b at right angles. The panels are positioned such that the long side 240a of the first panel 200a is in contact with the short side 250b of the 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 appreciated that the receiving portion 326 may equally be the receiving portion 606 of the profile 600 attached to each panel.

In fig. 5e, the first panel 200a is positioned beside the second panel 200b at right angles, but now these panels are positioned 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 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 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 rotated appropriately to accommodate differently oriented corners. It will be appreciated that the receiving portion 326 may equally be the receiving portion 606 of the profile 600 attached to each panel.

Referring to fig. 5f, a fourth embodiment of an 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, anywhere 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 the two panels 200 to be attached to each other vertically 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 appreciated that any combination of threaded portion 702, hole 704, and attachment element 708 may be implemented to achieve the proper function of attachment member 700 c. An example of a T-shaped attachment member 700c assembled with 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 disposed adjacent along an 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. 5 a-5 f allow the panels to be assembled in different configurations to form different types of dividers, for example as shown in fig. 3 a-3 c. Those 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 appreciated that each support 800 and/or each attachment member 700 a-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 a joining device 1000, the joining device 1000 comprising a connector 300 attachable to the lath 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 device 1000 mounted to the panel 200. The engagement device 1000 comprises a connector 300 that can be attached to a slat 230 by means of a fastener 400. The engagement device 1000 may also comprise a profile 600 and/or a gasket 500.

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

In fig. 6a, the connector 300 is depicted as part of the engagement device 1000 of the room divider system 100. The connector 300 forms a rigid structure for attaching the associated device to the panel in that the connector 300 is at least partially inserted into the cavity formed between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 of the panel 200 and then securely attached to the side wall 230a of the slat 230. Preferably, the connectors 300 are disposed on first and second laths 230 disposed along the edges 211, 216 of the panel 200. The connector 300 may also be arranged on the third 233 and fourth 234 or any other slat 230, 233, 234, on the panel 200. Fastener 400 passes through opening 314 in sloped surface 324 on main portion 302 of connector 300 to attach connector 300 to lath 230. The main portion 302 is substantially cubic in shape and preferably corresponds substantially in width to the distance between the sheets 210, 215. Thus, the main portion 302 includes a bottom wall 308 having a substantially rectangular shape and four side walls 306, 310, 312 extend perpendicularly from the bottom wall 308. Opposite the bottom wall 308, an opening 322 is arranged, which allows access to the interior of the main portion 302, including the fastener 400, when attached. Side walls 312 are configured to be disposed adjacent to laths 230, and the vertical inner surfaces of bottom wall 308 and side walls 312 are separated by inclined surfaces 324. The sloped surface 324 forms a portion of the side wall 312 closest to the bottom wall 308. The rear surface 320 is disposed on the other side of the wall 312 relative 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 230a.

The opening 314 in the angled surface 324 preferably extends substantially perpendicular to the angled surface 324 to the other side of the wall 312 and thus through the rear surface 320. Thus, fastener 400, which is preferably a screw, is threaded into lath 230 at an angle α (shown in fig. 9) relative to the longitudinal extension of lath 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 sloped surface 324 faces upward relative to the opening and toward an upper edge adjacent to the opening 322 of the wall 310, where the wall 310 is opposite the sloped surface 324. Thus, the fastener 400 will be arranged such that the head 402 of the fastener 400 is more easily accessible through the opening 322 by a suitable tool, such as a screwdriver. The upper edge adjacent the opening 322 of the sidewall 310 may serve as a support for the screwdriver to facilitate proper alignment with the fastener 400. Another advantage of the angled surface 324 and the resulting angled fastener arrangement is that longer fasteners 400 may be used without penetrating the other side of the slat 230, thereby increasing the load that may be placed on 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 arranged 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 a fastening element for connecting the attachment member 700, the adjustable foot 900 or the suspension member 1200.

Some problems arise because lath 230 optionally includes multiple strips of material 238 that fastener 400 must penetrate. One problem is that when a screw type fastener is attached to the surface of such a slat 230 at an angle other than 90, the fastener will tend to align with the longitudinal direction of the strip 238. This may result in a decrease in angle alpha and an unacceptable deviation from the desired angle. Therefore, a gasket 500 is provided to alleviate this effect. As shown in fig. 6a and 6b, the washer 500 is configured to be disposed adjacent to the fastener 400, with the head 402 of the fastener 400 providing a compressive force to one side of the washer 500. As further described with respect to fig. 8-10, washer 500 includes features configured to resist possible effects of ribbon 238 comprising ribbon 230.

Also shown in fig. 6a and 6b is an optional 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 connected to each side of the panel 200 to protect and cover the opening that would otherwise be visible between the sheets 210, 215, thereby functioning as a decorative piece. Thus, the profile 600 allows the end user to cut/modify 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 final uneven cut in the panel 200.

The profile 600 further includes 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 may 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 also includes a receiving portion 606. The profile receiving portion 606 is configured to receive the attachment elements 708 of the attachment members 700 a-700 c. As discussed with respect to fig. 5b, the attachment element 708 is configured to be inserted into the 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 may be configured to elastically deform when the attachment element 708 is inserted and then provide a retaining force on the attachment element 708 to provide a secure connection when the profile receiving portion 606 resumes its original form. Alternatively, the generally cylindrical portion 710 may be configured to elastically deform when inserted and then, when returning to its original form, the generally cylindrical portion 710 provides a retaining force on the 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 engagement of the recess 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.

Further, as can be seen from fig. 6b, connector 300 is configured to be disposed adjacent short side 230b of lath 230. It should be understood that while only one short side 230b of one slat 230 is shown, the other opposite short side 230b of each slat 230 may also be fitted with connector 300. Further, the connector 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.

To relieve some of the load exerted on fastener 400 and increase the load capacity of connector 300, particularly in the longitudinal direction of lath 230, lips 318 may be provided. Lip 318 protrudes from wall 312, more specifically from an upper edge of wall 312 adjacent 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 cavity 309 and connecting element 304 may fit within cavity 309. The main portion 302 of connector 300a, including cavity 309, may be formed by injection molding. Connecting element 304 may then be inserted into cavity 309 to connect fastening elements for attachment member 700, adjustable foot 900, or 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 metallic material, such as aluminum.

As shown in fig. 6a and 6b, connector 300a further includes a support bar 316, support bar 316 configured to extend in the longitudinal direction of lath 230 between first sheet 210 and second sheet 215 of 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 bar 316 serves to improve the stability of the connector 300a, since the support bar 316 distributes 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 standing 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 torque on each connector 300a connected to the panel 200. However, the connector 300 disposed along the top edge 207 may also include support bars 316.

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

In fig. 7c, another embodiment of a connector 300 is shown. The connector 300c comprises a main part 302 similar to the main part of the embodiment shown in fig. 7a, but provided with an additional receiving part 326. The connector receiving portion 326 is attached to the side wall 310 of the main portion 302 and extends from the side wall 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 an aperture 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 retaining 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 to provide a secure connection when the connector receiving portion 326 resumes its original form. Alternatively, the generally cylindrical portion 710 may be configured to elastically deform when inserted and then provide a retaining force on the connector receiving portion 326 when the generally cylindrical portion 710 returns to its original form. Each generally cylindrical portion 710 may also include a notch 712 such that the 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 recess 712 of the attachment element 708 to ensure a secure connection. The bore 327 of the connector receiving portion 326 may be generally elliptical in cross-section 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, forming a semi-tubular shape. In this way, increased tolerances are provided for alignment of the attachment members 700 and insertion of the attachment elements 708 while still providing an engagement surface for the attachment elements 708.

Furthermore, the support bar 316 of the connector 300c in the embodiment of fig. 7c may also be different from the support bar 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 reduction allows the connector 300c to be inserted into the cavity formed between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 of the panel 200 and alongside the side wall 230a of the slat 230 without compressing the spacer member 220 of the panel 200. By providing the reduction, the connector 300c can be inserted between the first sheet 210 and the second sheet 215 more smoothly. The support bar 316 of the connector 300c may also include a plurality of slats 332. This configuration provides support bar 316 with sufficient structural integrity while also reducing material requirements and the overall weight of connector 300 c. It should be appreciated that this configuration may also be used in the support bar 316 of the connector 300a shown in fig. 7 a. Connector 300c is preferably made of a polymeric material, such as a plastic material. However, the connector 300c may also be made of a metallic material, such as aluminum.

Turning now to fig. 8a and 8b, a gasket 500 is shown. As mentioned, the gasket 500 is configured to be disposed against the sloped surface 324. Of course, to receive fastener 400, washer 500 also includes aperture 502. The aperture 502 is aligned with the opening 314 in the angled surface 324. To prevent the fastener 400 from attaining the undesirable angle α, the washer 500 includes at least one mound 504 on a surface 506 of the washer 500 that is configured to face away from the angled surface 324, i.e., on a surface 506 that is configured to face the head 402 of the fastener 400. The top 508 of 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 asymmetrical contact area between washer 500 and fastener 400. The top of the mound 504 is pressed against the head 402 of the fastener 400, thereby creating a torque that resists the effects of the strip 238 material in the lath 230 on the fastener 400. As shown, the gasket 500 may include two hills 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 angled surface 324 such that when seated against the angled 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 because it serves to hold the mound in the correct position relative to the connector 300, as will be further explained below.

To obtain the desired effect from the gasket 500, the gasket 500 should preferably be arranged such that the line a is substantially parallel to the bottom wall 308, and such that the top 508 of the at least one mound 504 is arranged on the side of the gasket 500 closest to the bottom wall 308 defined by the line a. That is, if line a divides gasket 500 into two sides, gasket 500 should be arranged such that the side that includes top 508 of mound 504 is closest to bottom wall 308. Such an arrangement is shown in fig. 9, wherein at least one mound 504 is shown disposed below the longitudinal axis of the fastener 400, i.e., disposed closer to the bottom wall 308 in the connector 300. In the manner in which fastener 400 is disposed relative to laths 230 in fig. 9, there will be a tendency for angle α to decrease as fastener 400 is threaded through strip 238. The top 508 of the mound 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 α. The gasket 500 is preferably made of a metallic material, such as steel or aluminum, but the gasket 500 may also be made of a polymeric material, such as a plastic material.

In one embodiment shown in fig. 10, wherein a separate gasket 500 is not used, the gasket is incorporated in the inclined surface, i.e. the hills 504, 504a, 504b may instead be arranged on the inclined surface 324. The top 508 of the hills 504a, 504b will be arranged in the manner described with respect to the individual washers 500, i.e. in such a way that the top 508 is arranged below the central axis of the hole 314, i.e. arranged 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 including an elongated attachment member 700a according to one 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 a connector 300c as shown in fig. 7 c. Profile 600 may be attached to the top edge of each panel 200 to serve as a decorative 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 in general alignment with the receiving portions 326 of the connectors 300c present in each panel 200. When attached, the attachment element 708 will pass through the aperture 327 in the connector receiving portion 326, providing a snap fit, and the recess 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 including an elongated attachment member 700 a. As shown, the attachment element 708 engages with the connector receiving portion 326 in a snap fit manner, thereby securing the attachment member 700a in place. When assembled, the attachment members 700a hold the panels together and cover the slit between the two panels, which can be seen in fig. 11 a. By pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from being transferred between the panels as the gap has been closed. Furthermore, once the panels are pressed together, the stability of the assembled room divider system is improved, as the panels form a common block.

Fig. 12a and 12b show an L-shaped attachment member 700b as shown in fig. 5c, the attachment member 700b being assembled to the two vertical panels 200a, 200b by using the 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 lath 230 of each panel 200 by fastener 400. Profile 600 may be attached to the top edge of each panel 200 to serve as a decorative piece. The first leg 714 of the attachment member 700b is positioned to fit on the first panel 200 a. The second leg 716 is positioned to fit on the second panel 200 b. Thus, the attachment elements 708 are positioned to be generally aligned with the receiving portions 326 of the connectors 300c present in the respective panels 200. When attached, the attachment element 708 will pass through the aperture 327 in the connector receiving portion 326, providing a snap fit, and the recess 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 including an L-shaped attachment member 700 b. As shown, the attachment element 708 engages with the connector receiving portion 326 in a snap fit manner, thereby securing the attachment member 700b in place. When assembled, the attachment members 700b hold the panels together and cover the slit between the two panels, which can be seen in fig. 12 a. By pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from being transferred between the panels as the gap has been closed. Furthermore, once the panels are pressed together, the stability of the assembled room divider system is improved, as the panels form a common block.

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 lath 230 of each panel 200 by fastener 400. Profile 600 may be attached to the top edge of each panel 200 to serve as a decorative piece. The first leg 718 of the attachment member 700c is positioned to fit over the 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 aperture 327 in the connector receiving portion 326, providing a snap fit, and the recess 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 a T-shaped attachment member 700 c. As shown, the attachment element 708 engages with the connector receiving portion 326 in a snap fit manner, thereby securing the attachment member 700c in place. When assembled, the attachment members 700c hold the panels together and cover the slit between the two panels, which can be seen in fig. 13 a. By pushing the panels together, sound is substantially prevented from being transferred between the panels as the gap has been closed. Furthermore, once the panels are pressed together, the stability of the assembled room divider system is improved, as the panels form a common block.

Fig. 14a shows a suspension member 1200 for use in a room divider system with a sliding door according to one embodiment. Suspension member 1200a includes a connection 1202 and a suspension 1204. The connection 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 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 attach to a rail 1206 (shown in fig. 14 b), the rail 1206 being attached to a wall or ceiling of a room. The suspension 1204 may be slidably attached to the rail such that the panel may slide along the rail to provide a sliding room divider, such as a sliding door.

Fig. 15 a-15 c illustrate the assembly of a first panel 200a adjacent to a second panel 200b into a room divider system 100. As shown in fig. 15a, first panel 200a is first positioned in an upright position on the floor. An elongated attachment member 700a (shown in fig. 5a and 5 b) is attached to the lower corner of the first panel 200a prior to positioning the first panel 200a on the floor. The lower elongated attachment member 700a may be connected to the first panel 200a via the connector 300 or profile 600 (not shown), as already described herein above, e.g. with respect to fig. 11 a-11 b. Lower elongate 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. To allow for 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. Furthermore, it is also advantageous that adjustable foot 900 may be positioned on the floor prior to positioning panel 200 on top of adjustable foot 900 because adjustable foot 900 will be difficult to install after the panel is assembled.

When the first panel 200a and the second panel 200b are assembled into the room divider system 100, the second panel 200b is positioned over the attachment element 708 adjacent to the first panel 200b, as shown in fig. 15 a. When positioning the panels 200a, 200b adjacent to one another, the assembly support 1100b is positioned between the panels 200a, 200b (fig. 16b shows an enlarged view of the support 1100 b). The component support 1100b has two U-shaped contoured portions facing in opposite directions. The U-shaped profile portions are arranged on the same base plate, i.e. parallel sides in the U-shaped profile portions 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 panel 200a and the second panel 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 over because the first U-shaped contoured portion is engaged with the first panel 200a and the second U-shaped contoured portion is engaged 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, the 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. Before attaching the second elongated attachment member 700a, as shown in fig. 15c, the first panel 200a and the second panel 200b are pushed together to compress the fabric 270 (see fig. 15 a) folded over the laths 230 (not shown) of hollow sheet material of the first panel 200 a. In fig. 2b, a fabric 270 folded over laths 230 is shown. 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, for example, there may be only one support 800 on the first panel 200a, so as 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 laths 230, 231, 232, 233, 234, 235, 236, each panel 200 may be fitted with several engagement means 1000. These engagement means may be installed during manufacture or may be capable of being installed by a customer.

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

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. Accordingly, the foregoing preferred specific embodiments are to be considered as merely illustrative and not limiting of the present disclosure in any way.

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/comprising" does not exclude the presence of other elements or steps. Furthermore, although individual features may be included in different claims, these may possibly be advantageously combined, and the inclusion in two 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," "the first," "second," and the like do not exclude a plurality.

Claims

1. An attachment member (700 a-700 c) for attachment to a first panel (200 a) and a second panel (200 b) 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 method comprises the steps of

The first portion (714, 718, 724) and the second portion (716, 720, 726) each include at least one attachment element (708), the at least one attachment element (708) configured to be attached to a receiving portion (326, 606) associated with a respective panel;

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 a respective panel and to exert a clamping force on the respective panel when fitted over the panel, and

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

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 being configured to hold the first and second panels together in the assembled position, and

wherein the retention force presses the first panel (200 a) and the second panel (200 b) towards each other after assembly.

2. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) of claim 1, wherein each attachment element (708) includes a recess (712), the recess (712) being configured to engage with the corresponding receiving portion (326, 606).

3. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) of claim 2, wherein the receiving portion is part of a connector (300) associated with a respective panel, and the recess (712) is configured to engage with a sleeve portion (328) of the receiving portion (326).

4. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) of claim 1 or 2, wherein each attachment element (708) comprises a generally cylindrical portion (710), the generally cylindrical portion (710) being configured to be inserted into the receiving portion (326, 606).

5. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each attachment element (708) comprises a generally conical portion (711) at one end, through which generally conical portion (711) the attachment element (708) is inserted into the receiving portion (326, 606).

6. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) of claim 5, wherein the generally tapered portion (711) is located at an insertion end of each attachment element (708).

7. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) of claim 1 or 2, wherein each attachment element (708) is configured to engage with the receiving portion (326, 606) in a snap-fit manner.

8. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second portions (714, 718, 724) are configured to be connectable to the top of the respective panel by snap-fit.

9. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) according to claim 1 or 2, 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.

10. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first portion (714, 718, 724) and/or the second portion (716, 720, 726) comprises at least one threaded portion (702).

11. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second portions (714, 718, 724) are arranged continuously along a common axis such that the first and second portions (714, 718, 724) are attachable to the first and second panels (200 a, 200 b) when in the assembled position, the first and second panels are arranged adjacent and parallel to the axis.

12. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second portions (714, 718, 724) are arranged at an angle relative to each other such that the attachment member is attachable to the first and second panels (200 a, 200 b) when in the assembled position, the first and second panels are arranged at an angle.

13. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) of claim 12, wherein the angle is a right angle.

14. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) according to claim 13, 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 generally L-shaped.

15. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) of claim 14, wherein the attachment element (708) of the first portion (714, 718, 724) is arranged closer to the vertex (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 from the vertex (722) than the attachment element (708) of the second portion (716, 720, 726).

16. The attachment member (700 a-700 c) according to claim 13, 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).

17. A room divider system, comprising:

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

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

18. The room divider system of claim 17, wherein at least one of the first panel (200 a) and the second panel (200 b) comprises an at least partially compressible surface material, and wherein the retention force is configured to compress the compressible surface material of the at least one panel when the attachment members (700 a-700 c) are attached to the first panel (200 a) and the second panel (200 b).

19. The room divider system of claim 18, wherein the at least partially compressible surface material comprises an elastic covering material or fabric.

20. The room divider system of claim 19, wherein the at least partially compressible surface material comprises a nonwoven fabric.

21. The room divider system of any one of claims 17-20, further comprising:

-a first connector attachable to the first panel (200 a) by means of a first fastener, or to the first panel (200 a) by means of a first fastener; and

-a second connector attachable to the second panel (200 b) by means of a second fastener or to the second panel (200 b) by means of a second fastener, the attachment members (700 a-700 c) being arranged to be connected to at least one of the first and second connectors.

22. The room divider system of claim 21, wherein the first connector and the second connector are arranged in upper ends of the respective panels (200 a, 200 b).

23. The room divider system of claim 22, wherein third and fourth connectors are arranged in and connected to lower ends of the respective panels (200 a, 200 b).

24. The room divider system of claim 23, wherein a first attachment member is arranged for connection to the first connector and the second connector to connect the first panel (200 a) and the second panel (200 b) at an upper end of the first panel (200 a) and an upper end of the second panel (200 b).

25. The room divider system of claim 24, wherein a second attachment member is arranged for connection to the third connector and the fourth connector to connect the first panel (200 a) and the second panel (200 b) at a lower end of the first panel (200 a) and a lower end of the second panel (200 b).

26. The room divider system of any one of claims 17-20, further comprising:

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

-a second profile configured to cover an edge of the second panel (200 b).

27. The room divider system of claim 26, wherein each of the first and second profiles is configured to be attached to a respective connector (300) and a respective panel by means of a respective fastener (400).