EP0494155B1 - A coupling - Google Patents
A coupling Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP0494155B1 EP0494155B1 EP90912298A EP90912298A EP0494155B1 EP 0494155 B1 EP0494155 B1 EP 0494155B1 EP 90912298 A EP90912298 A EP 90912298A EP 90912298 A EP90912298 A EP 90912298A EP 0494155 B1 EP0494155 B1 EP 0494155B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- coupling according
- locking
- locating
- bores
- parts
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
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- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 95
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 95
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- 238000005755 formation reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000006978 adaptation Effects 0.000 claims 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 4
- 239000002991 molded plastic Substances 0.000 description 3
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000011121 hardwood Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 229920000122 acrylonitrile butadiene styrene Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 238000005034 decoration Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009977 dual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009970 fire resistant effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000011521 glass Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000003780 insertion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037431 insertion Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000000465 moulding Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229920000515 polycarbonate Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004417 polycarbonate Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000001737 promoting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007789 sealing Methods 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/74—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge
- E04B2/7407—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge assembled using frames with infill panels or coverings only; made-up of panels and a support structure incorporating posts
- E04B2/7416—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge assembled using frames with infill panels or coverings only; made-up of panels and a support structure incorporating posts with free upper edge, e.g. for use as office space dividers
- E04B2/7422—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge assembled using frames with infill panels or coverings only; made-up of panels and a support structure incorporating posts with free upper edge, e.g. for use as office space dividers with separate framed panels without intermediary support posts
- E04B2/7427—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge assembled using frames with infill panels or coverings only; made-up of panels and a support structure incorporating posts with free upper edge, e.g. for use as office space dividers with separate framed panels without intermediary support posts with adjustable angular connection of panels
- E04B2/7431—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge assembled using frames with infill panels or coverings only; made-up of panels and a support structure incorporating posts with free upper edge, e.g. for use as office space dividers with separate framed panels without intermediary support posts with adjustable angular connection of panels using hinges having two parallel rotation axes
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/18—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons
- E04B1/19—Three-dimensional framework structures
- E04B1/1903—Connecting nodes specially adapted therefor
- E04B1/1912—Connecting nodes specially adapted therefor with central cubical connecting element
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- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/38—Connections for building structures in general
- E04B1/61—Connections for building structures in general of slab-shaped building elements with each other
- E04B1/6108—Connections for building structures in general of slab-shaped building elements with each other the frontal surfaces of the slabs connected together
- E04B1/6187—Connections for building structures in general of slab-shaped building elements with each other the frontal surfaces of the slabs connected together by means on top and/or bottom surfaces of the slabs
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B1/00—Constructions in general; Structures which are not restricted either to walls, e.g. partitions, or floors or ceilings or roofs
- E04B1/18—Structures comprising elongated load-supporting parts, e.g. columns, girders, skeletons
- E04B1/19—Three-dimensional framework structures
- E04B2001/1957—Details of connections between nodes and struts
Definitions
- This invention relates to a coupling and more particularly to a coupling for connection of multiple panel elements in a selected disposition.
- the coupling described in this document includes a number of locating members on a first coupling part which engage in locating bores on a second coupling part to connect panels.
- the locating bore has a number of locking bores angularly spaced around it and the locating member also has a number of locking bores angularly spaced around it whereby a separate locking member can be inserted through the locking bores, in the first coupling part to engage the locking bores in the second coupling part to fix the relative orientation of the coupling parts and hence the panels to which they are attached.
- a coupling for connection of at least two elements comprising a first part provided on each respective element and a second part adapted to engage, and thereby link, said first parts, characterised in that each said first part or said second part including a central female formation and a plurality of female components provided angularly spaced therearound, and the other of each said first part or said second part includes at least one male formation having a plurality of male components angularly spaced therearound, whereby said elements can be secured together in a predetermined angular disposition by engagement of each said male component on one said part with a respective female component on another said part.
- Said elements may comprise one or more panels and/or one or more beams.
- Two first parts may be mounted on each element at the top and bottom edges thereof respectively.
- two second parts may be provided to link respective first parts on adjacent said elements or alternatively a single second part may be provided to link said first parts.
- a locking clip may be provided which acts to link said first and second parts.
- Said locking clip may extend through one or more of said first and second parts and may be suitably adapted at one or both ends thereof for engagement with one or more of said parts.
- the locking clip may have an enlarged part at one end and may have locking projections at the other end.
- Said enlarged part may be generally circular and further may have a peripheral lip thereto.
- Said locking projections may be substantially triangular in shape.
- the locking clip may comprise two or more resilient members.
- Each said first part may have a locating bore in which said second part engages.
- said formations on each said second part may comprise multiple locating members projecting therefrom which engage said locating bores in said first parts thereby to link said elements.
- said locating members are rotatable within said locating bores and comprise cylindrical members which may be solid or hollow.
- Said first part may further be provided with a plurality of locking bores symmetrically disposed around said locating bore.
- the locking bores are arranged around the periphery of said locating bore and are equi-angularly spaced thereabout. In a particularly preferred embodiment eight such bores are provided spaced by 45° around the periphery.
- Each said second part may have multiple locking members symmetrically disposed around each said locating member.
- Said locking members may be of cylindrical configuration and may be solid or hollow.
- Said locking members may be adapted to engage in said locking bores thereby to secure said parts in fixed disposition.
- Preferably four such locking members are provided spaced angularly by 90°.
- said first part may be provided with at least one locating member having a plurality of locking members disposed symmetrically therearound.
- each second part may have multiple locating bores therein whereby multiple elements can be coupled via a single first part.
- Each said locating bore may have multiple said locking bores symmetrically disposed therearound.
- said second part is cuboid having six faces thereto and has a locating bore and associated locking bores in each of the six faces thereof.
- one or more faces of said second part may be arranged such that it is inclined to one or more adjacent faces at an angle substantially greater than 90° thereto.
- the elements may comprise panel elements and/or beam elements.
- Figure 1 shows a base part 10 of the coupling for use in the connection of panels.
- the base part 10 comprises a moulded plastics body for example formed from ABS plastics or polycarbonate, of generally elongate form having a curved portion 11 at one end thereof.
- the opposite end 12 of the body 10 is generally rectangular.
- a locating bore 15 is disposed generally at the centre of the body 10.
- the bore 15 is of generally circular cross-section and eight locking bores 16 of smaller diameter are arranged around the central locating bore 15, the centre of the locking bores 16 lying on a circle 17 concentric with the centre of the locating bore 15.
- the eight locking bores 16 are equi-angularly spaced around the locating bore 15 i.e. their centres are angularly spaced by 45°.
- the centres of two locking bores 16 and the centre of the locating bore 15 lie on the axis of symmetry 18 of the body 10.
- a number of further attachment bores 19 are also provided disposed around the body 10 for example in the embodiment shown four such bores 19 are shown, two at each corner of rectangular part 12 of the body 10 and two at the curved end 18 thereof on either side of and adjacent to the axis of symmetry 18 of the body 10.
- the attachment bores 19 enable the base part 10 to be secured to the edge of a panel and if desired may be provided with a screw threaded interior.
- FIG. 2 there is shown one form of pivot coupling part 20 for attachment of two panels together.
- the pivot coupling part 20 comprises a generally rectangular body with both ends 21, 22 being curved.
- a raised lip 23 is provided around the periphery of the part 20 similar to that described above in relation to the base part 10.
- Two hollow cylindrical locating members 24 project from a lower surface 25 of the pivot part 20 and the centres of these members 24 are axially aligned along the long axis of symmetry 26 of the part 20.
- Arranged around each locating member 24 are four hollow cylindrical locking members 27.
- the locking members 27 are arranged with their centres on a circle which is concentric with the associated locating member 24.
- the four members 27 are equi-angularly disposed with their centres spaced by 90°, and two of the locking members 27 around each locating member 24 have their centres lying on the long axis of symmetry 26 of the part 20.
- Each panel is of generally rectangular form and is fabricated from any suitable material as desired or appropriate, for example hardwood, or the panel may comprise a hardwood frame with a laminated sheeting or glass or a mirror mounted therein. If appropriate the panels may also be treated or otherwise made fire-resistant.
- Each locating member 24 is of larger diameter than the locking members 27 and project by a greater distance from the part 20.
- a base part 10 is attached to the top and bottom of each edge 31, 32 of the panels 33, 34 to be coupled together.
- the parts 10 are attached such that the locating bore 15 and locking bores 16 on each part 10 are aligned.
- the two edges 31, 32 of the panels 33, 34 are placed adjacent each other and are linked by a respective pivot part 20 at the top and bottom edges thereof. This is achieved by inserting the locating members 24 on a pivot part 20 partially into the locating bores 15 in the adjacent base parts 10 of each panel 33, 34 at both top and bottom edges. It will be appreciated that in this position it is possible for the two panels 33, 34 to be rotated relative to each other about the locating members 24. In order to fix the panels 33, 34 in a configuration whereby they have a desired angular relationship it is necessary to arrange the two panels 33, 34 in such disposition and then press the pivot part 20 such that the locating members 24 are fully inserted into the locating bores 15.
- pivot coupling part 20 for attachment of two panels 33, 34 however it is possible to vary the configuration of the parts 20 to facilitate attachment of any number of panels as desired and as appropriate.
- Figures 4 and 5 show coupling parts 40, 50 for the attachment of three and four panels respectively.
- various items for example desks or partial or complete enclosures such as booths or the like.
- the locking clip 60 comprises a one piece moulded plastics structure having an enlarged part 61 at one end thereof.
- the enlarged part 61 is generally circular in shape and has an upstanding circumferential rim 62.
- Two flexible members 63 project transversely from the enlarged part 61 and are disposed symmetrically on opposite sides of the transverse axis 64 of the enlarged part 61.
- the members 63 extend a greater distance than the circumferential rim 62 and each member 63 terminates in a locking projection 65.
- Each locking projection 65 is of substantially triangular form and extends transversely to the flexible members 63 in a direction away from the transverse axis 64.
- any desired number of locking members can be provided disposed around the flexible members 63 in a similar manner to that described above in relation to the pivot coupling part 20, however in the embodiment shown in Figure 6 no such locking members are provided.
- two base parts 10 as described above are fixed to upper and lower surfaces respectively of each end of a beam 66 to be coupled. Bores are drilled or otherwise provided through the beam to link the locating and locking bores in the upper and lower base parts at both ends of the beam. If, for example, it is desired to connect the beam between two panels (not shown) then, when the base parts 10 have been fixed in position on the panel edge and the beam 66, the upper edge of the panel and the beam 66 are brought into a position adjacent each other. The panel and beam 66 are then linked by inserting the locating members 24 of a pivot coupling part 20, 40, 50 partially into the locating bore on each respective base part 10.
- the beam 66 and panel are then positioned in a desired angular disposition by movement thereof about the coupling and when in position the locating member 24 of the pivot coupling part 20, 40, 50 is inserted fully into the locating bore thereby engaging the locking members (not shown) associated with each locating member 24 into the locking bores (not shown) in the base parts 10.
- the locking clip 60 can then be used to provide support for the beam 66 from below.
- the flexible members 63 of the locking clip are inserted upwardly into the locating bore of the lower base part 10, through the bore linking the respective locating bores and into the interior of the locating member 24 of the coupling part 20, 40, 50.
- the clip 60 is suitably configured such that the spacing of the flexible members 63 is generally equal to the diameter of the bore and also such that when fully inserted, the lip 62 of the enlarged part 61 is in contact with the lower base part 10 and a lower edge of each of the locking projections 65 is in contact with the upper surface of the coupling part 20, 40, 50.
- the flexible members 63 are pushed closer together in order that the locking projections 65 can pass through such bores and thus when the projections 65 emerge from the interior of the locating member 24 the flexible members 63 spring outwardly such that the locking projections 65 abut the coupling part 20, 40, 50 and prevent removal of the clip 60.
- the beam 10 is supported by the enlarged part 61 and the locking projections 65 of the clip 60 and is fixed in a desired disposition relative to the panel.
- the second panel can be coupled to the other end of the beam 10 in a manner identical to that described above. In this way beams 10 or other similarly configured elements can be coupled with the abovementioned panels to form arrangements of any desired configuration.
- a sealing plug 67 can be inserted into the locating bore between the flexible member 63 to seal the bore.
- the coupling part 70 of Figure 7 comprises a one piece moulded plastics structure of generally rectangular form.
- the part 70 has a protruding peripheral lip 71 which extends around the full length of the periphery.
- a central solid cylindrical locating member 72 projects upwardly from a surface of the part 70 in a direction opposed to the peripheral lip 71.
- Four locking members 73 also of solid cylindrical form extend upwardly from the surface and are disposed generally at each corner of the part.
- the diagonal axes of symmetry 74, 75 of the part 70 pass respectively through the centres of two opposed locking members 73 and the central locating member 72.
- the locking members 73 project a smaller distance from the part 70 than the locating member 72 and are of smaller diameter.
- Fixing apertures 76 are also provided on opposite sides of the locating member 72 and are disposed equi-spaced between the two locking members 73 on respective sides of the locating member 72.
- the centres of the two locking members 73 and the fixing aperture 76 on each respective side of the locating member 72 lie on lines which are substantially parallel to the edges of the part 70.
- the coupling part 80 shown in Figure 8 is hollow and is of generally half-cubical form having a base 81 and four upstanding side walls 82.
- the base 81 is generally rectangular and is provided with a central locating bore 83 and four locking bores 84 of smaller diameter at respective corners of the base 81.
- a gripping portion 85 is provided midway along each side edge of the base 81 adjacent the side walls 82, and takes the form of a recess having an inclined lower surface 86 thereto, each recess extending partly into the base 81 and side walls 82.
- On each side wall 82 two locking openings 87 are provided, one on each side of the recess 85.
- the openings 87 are generally rectangular with a lower end 88 thereof being curved.
- the openings 87 extend from the edge linking the base 81 to the side wall 82 to a position lower than a bottom edge of the recess 85.
- a semi-circular cut-out 89 is provided in each side wall 82 for a purpose to be described hereinafter.
- the interior of the coupling part 80 is shown in Figure 9.
- Four planar webs 91 project transversely from the centre of the side walls 82 and extend to the edge of the locating bore 83. These webs 91 serve a dual purpose in so far as they act to increase the strength of the part 80 and a further purpose to be described hereinafter.
- Similar webs 92 are provided around each locking bore 84, one 93 of which extends from the edge of the respective locking bore 84 to the edge of the central locating bore 83.
- Further block supports 94 of triangular form are provided disposed adjacent the base side wall and webs 91 to further increase the strength of the coupling.
- the parts 80 can be adapted to snap fit together or they can be pinned together, such that a single coupling part of substantially cubical form is defined.
- the coupling part so defined has a central locating bore 83 on each of the six faces thereof and has corner locking bores 84 on two faces and corner locking openings 87 on four faces thereof.
- connection part 70 is fixed onto at least one end of a beam (not shown) to be coupled by insertion of screws or the like through the fixing apertures 76.
- connection part 70 and/or beam end(s) can be suitably adapted such that the part 70 can be a snap or push fit onto the beam end(s).
- frameworks of beam elements of a desired configuration can be constructed as follows.
- the locating member 72 of the connection part 70 is inserted through the locating bore 83 in one face of the cubic coupling and the beam (not shown) is rotated about the locating member 72 until the beam is in a desired angular disposition relative to the coupling and the locking members 73 are engaged in the locking bores 84 or locking openings 87.
- the beam With the embodiments shown in Figures 7 to 10, four locking members 73 and bores are provided and therefore the beam can be positioned in one of four angular dispositions spaced by 90°, however it is possible to provide any number of locking members 73 and locking bores 84 or locking openings 87 as desired or as appropriate.
- a finishing part 101 such as is shown in Figure 11 can be used to provide an attractive finish thereto.
- the part 101 comprises a central locating member 102 and corner locking members 103 mounted on a planar sheet 104.
- the locating member 102 and locking members 103 are inserted into the corresponding bores in the cubic coupling leaving the reverse side 105 of the planar sheet 104 exposed.
- Such reverse side 105 can be used for the display of advertising and/or promotional material.
- the panels have integral removable mountings (not shown) provided thereon and/or an integral lighting system (not shown).
- Such modification can take the form of channels in the cross-bars of the panel frame which channels are generally T-shaped.
- the mountings comprise generally T-shaped members which are adapted to be slidingly engageable in the channel.
- the mountings can be moved to any suitable position along a respective cross-bar and as many such mountings can be provided as desired.
- lights of strip form can be mounted within the channel, and in this case one of the outer bars of the frame is adapted to receive the connecting wires therefor.
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- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Connection Of Plates (AREA)
- Control Of Motors That Do Not Use Commutators (AREA)
- Mechanical Coupling Of Light Guides (AREA)
- Mechanical Operated Clutches (AREA)
Abstract
Description
- This invention relates to a coupling and more particularly to a coupling for connection of multiple panel elements in a selected disposition.
- There are cases, for example in an open plan office, where it is necessary for the space to be divided into a number of areas by the erection of panels to form walls which separate off each area from adjacent areas, and/or beams which act as mountings or the like. The panels and/or beams are connected together in the required arrangement by couplings which hold the individual parts fixed in position relative to each other. However, with present arrangements it may not be possible for the panels and/or beams to be simply and conveniently dismantled where it is necessary to alter the layout of the office and, furthermore, once dismantled the parts may not be reusable.
- DE-A-2733283 discloses a coupling which can be used for this purpose. The coupling described in this document includes a number of locating members on a first coupling part which engage in locating bores on a second coupling part to connect panels. The locating bore has a number of locking bores angularly spaced around it and the locating member also has a number of locking bores angularly spaced around it whereby a separate locking member can be inserted through the locking bores, in the first coupling part to engage the locking bores in the second coupling part to fix the relative orientation of the coupling parts and hence the panels to which they are attached.
- It is an object of the present invention to provide a coupling which allows flexibility in construction in so far as it is capable of being readily erected and dismantled and permits versatility in design by allowing variation in the relative disposition of the elements linked in this way.
- According to the present invention therefore there is provided a coupling for connection of at least two elements, said coupling comprising a first part provided on each respective element and a second part adapted to engage, and thereby link, said first parts, characterised in that each said first part or said second part including a central female formation and a plurality of female components provided angularly spaced therearound, and the other of each said first part or said second part includes at least one male formation having a plurality of male components angularly spaced therearound, whereby said elements can be secured together in a predetermined angular disposition by engagement of each said male component on one said part with a respective female component on another said part.
- With this arrangement it is possible for multiple elements to be connected together in a simple and versatile manner.
- Said elements may comprise one or more panels and/or one or more beams.
- Two first parts may be mounted on each element at the top and bottom edges thereof respectively. In this case two second parts may be provided to link respective first parts on adjacent said elements or alternatively a single second part may be provided to link said first parts. In the latter case a locking clip may be provided which acts to link said first and second parts.
- Said locking clip may extend through one or more of said first and second parts and may be suitably adapted at one or both ends thereof for engagement with one or more of said parts. Thus the locking clip may have an enlarged part at one end and may have locking projections at the other end. Said enlarged part may be generally circular and further may have a peripheral lip thereto. Said locking projections may be substantially triangular in shape.
- Between said enlarged part and said locking projections, the locking clip may comprise two or more resilient members.
- Each said first part may have a locating bore in which said second part engages. In this respect said formations on each said second part may comprise multiple locating members projecting therefrom which engage said locating bores in said first parts thereby to link said elements. Preferably said locating members are rotatable within said locating bores and comprise cylindrical members which may be solid or hollow.
- Said first part may further be provided with a plurality of locking bores symmetrically disposed around said locating bore. Preferably the locking bores are arranged around the periphery of said locating bore and are equi-angularly spaced thereabout. In a particularly preferred embodiment eight such bores are provided spaced by 45° around the periphery.
- Each said second part may have multiple locking members symmetrically disposed around each said locating member. Said locking members may be of cylindrical configuration and may be solid or hollow. Said locking members may be adapted to engage in said locking bores thereby to secure said parts in fixed disposition. Preferably four such locking members are provided spaced angularly by 90°.
- Alternatively said first part may be provided with at least one locating member having a plurality of locking members disposed symmetrically therearound. With this arrangement each second part may have multiple locating bores therein whereby multiple elements can be coupled via a single first part. Each said locating bore may have multiple said locking bores symmetrically disposed therearound. In a particularly preferred embodiment said second part is cuboid having six faces thereto and has a locating bore and associated locking bores in each of the six faces thereof. In this case one or more faces of said second part may be arranged such that it is inclined to one or more adjacent faces at an angle substantially greater than 90° thereto.
- Any number of elements may be joined by the coupling and in this respect it is visualised that the invention will find particular application in the construction of enclosures of various configurations.
- The elements may comprise panel elements and/or beam elements.
- The invention will now be described further by way of example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings of which:
- Fig. 1 shows a plan view of a base part of a coupling according to the invention;
- Fig. 2 shows a plan view of a pivot coupling part of a coupling for use in attachment of two panels;
- Fig. 2a shows a section on A-A of Fig. 2;
- Fig. 3 shows a side view of two panels linked by a coupling;
- Fig. 4 shows a plan view of a pivot coupling part for use in attachment of three panels;
- Fig. 5 shows a plan view of a pivot coupling part for use in attachment of four panels;
- Fig. 6 shows a sectional side view of a locking clip for use in linking coupling parts;
- Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of one form of coupling part according to the invention;
- Fig. 8 shows a perspective view from below of part of an alternative form of coupling part;
- Fig. 9 shows a perspective view from above of the coupling part of Fig. 8;
- Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of a part of a further alternative coupling part; and
- Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of a finishing part.
- Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 shows a
base part 10 of the coupling for use in the connection of panels. - The
base part 10 comprises a moulded plastics body for example formed from ABS plastics or polycarbonate, of generally elongate form having acurved portion 11 at one end thereof. Theopposite end 12 of thebody 10 is generally rectangular. On alower surface 13 of the body 10 a raisedlip 14 is provided around the periphery of thebody 10. - A locating
bore 15 is disposed generally at the centre of thebody 10. Thebore 15 is of generally circular cross-section and eightlocking bores 16 of smaller diameter are arranged around the central locatingbore 15, the centre of thelocking bores 16 lying on acircle 17 concentric with the centre of the locatingbore 15. The eightlocking bores 16 are equi-angularly spaced around the locatingbore 15 i.e. their centres are angularly spaced by 45°. The centres of two locking bores 16 and the centre of the locatingbore 15 lie on the axis ofsymmetry 18 of thebody 10. A number offurther attachment bores 19 are also provided disposed around thebody 10 for example in the embodiment shown foursuch bores 19 are shown, two at each corner ofrectangular part 12 of thebody 10 and two at thecurved end 18 thereof on either side of and adjacent to the axis ofsymmetry 18 of thebody 10. Theattachment bores 19 enable thebase part 10 to be secured to the edge of a panel and if desired may be provided with a screw threaded interior. - Referring now to Figure 2 there is shown one form of
pivot coupling part 20 for attachment of two panels together. - The
pivot coupling part 20 comprises a generally rectangular body with both ends 21, 22 being curved. A raisedlip 23 is provided around the periphery of thepart 20 similar to that described above in relation to thebase part 10. Two hollowcylindrical locating members 24 project from alower surface 25 of thepivot part 20 and the centres of thesemembers 24 are axially aligned along the long axis ofsymmetry 26 of thepart 20. Arranged around each locatingmember 24 are four hollowcylindrical locking members 27. The lockingmembers 27 are arranged with their centres on a circle which is concentric with the associated locatingmember 24. The fourmembers 27 are equi-angularly disposed with their centres spaced by 90°, and two of the lockingmembers 27 around each locatingmember 24 have their centres lying on the long axis ofsymmetry 26 of thepart 20. - Each panel is of generally rectangular form and is fabricated from any suitable material as desired or appropriate, for example hardwood, or the panel may comprise a hardwood frame with a laminated sheeting or glass or a mirror mounted therein. If appropriate the panels may also be treated or otherwise made fire-resistant.
- Each locating
member 24 is of larger diameter than the lockingmembers 27 and project by a greater distance from thepart 20. - In use a
base part 10 is attached to the top and bottom of eachedge panels parts 10 are attached such that the locating bore 15 and locking bores 16 on eachpart 10 are aligned. - The two
edges panels respective pivot part 20 at the top and bottom edges thereof. This is achieved by inserting the locatingmembers 24 on apivot part 20 partially into the locating bores 15 in theadjacent base parts 10 of eachpanel panels members 24. In order to fix thepanels panels pivot part 20 such that the locatingmembers 24 are fully inserted into the locating bores 15. In this case the lockingmembers 27 will be pushed into engagement with respective ones of the locking bores 16 in thebase parts 10 and thus no rotation or other movement of thepanels members 27 it is possible for a wide variety of angular dispositions of the twopanels - In the above example there is described a
pivot coupling part 20 for attachment of twopanels parts 20 to facilitate attachment of any number of panels as desired and as appropriate. Thus for example, Figures 4 and 5 show coupling parts 40, 50 for the attachment of three and four panels respectively. Thus by appropriate arrangement of multiple panels it is possible to construct various items for example desks or partial or complete enclosures such as booths or the like. - With the arrangement described above it is possible to link together multiple panel elements in a desired formation. However, in some cases it may be required to connect one or more beam elements into the structure. This can be achieved using a
locking clip 60 as shown in Figure 6. - The locking
clip 60 comprises a one piece moulded plastics structure having anenlarged part 61 at one end thereof. Theenlarged part 61 is generally circular in shape and has an upstandingcircumferential rim 62. Twoflexible members 63 project transversely from theenlarged part 61 and are disposed symmetrically on opposite sides of thetransverse axis 64 of theenlarged part 61. Themembers 63 extend a greater distance than thecircumferential rim 62 and eachmember 63 terminates in a lockingprojection 65. Each lockingprojection 65 is of substantially triangular form and extends transversely to theflexible members 63 in a direction away from thetransverse axis 64. If required any desired number of locking members (not shown) can be provided disposed around theflexible members 63 in a similar manner to that described above in relation to thepivot coupling part 20, however in the embodiment shown in Figure 6 no such locking members are provided. - In use two
base parts 10 as described above are fixed to upper and lower surfaces respectively of each end of abeam 66 to be coupled. Bores are drilled or otherwise provided through the beam to link the locating and locking bores in the upper and lower base parts at both ends of the beam. If, for example, it is desired to connect the beam between two panels (not shown) then, when thebase parts 10 have been fixed in position on the panel edge and thebeam 66, the upper edge of the panel and thebeam 66 are brought into a position adjacent each other. The panel andbeam 66 are then linked by inserting the locatingmembers 24 of apivot coupling part 20, 40, 50 partially into the locating bore on eachrespective base part 10. Thebeam 66 and panel are then positioned in a desired angular disposition by movement thereof about the coupling and when in position the locatingmember 24 of thepivot coupling part 20, 40, 50 is inserted fully into the locating bore thereby engaging the locking members (not shown) associated with each locatingmember 24 into the locking bores (not shown) in thebase parts 10. - In this position the locking
clip 60 can then be used to provide support for thebeam 66 from below. In this respect theflexible members 63 of the locking clip are inserted upwardly into the locating bore of thelower base part 10, through the bore linking the respective locating bores and into the interior of the locatingmember 24 of thecoupling part 20, 40, 50. Theclip 60 is suitably configured such that the spacing of theflexible members 63 is generally equal to the diameter of the bore and also such that when fully inserted, thelip 62 of theenlarged part 61 is in contact with thelower base part 10 and a lower edge of each of the lockingprojections 65 is in contact with the upper surface of thecoupling part 20, 40, 50. It will be appreciated that upon passage through the bores, theflexible members 63 are pushed closer together in order that the lockingprojections 65 can pass through such bores and thus when theprojections 65 emerge from the interior of the locatingmember 24 theflexible members 63 spring outwardly such that the lockingprojections 65 abut thecoupling part 20, 40, 50 and prevent removal of theclip 60. In this position thebeam 10 is supported by theenlarged part 61 and the lockingprojections 65 of theclip 60 and is fixed in a desired disposition relative to the panel. The second panel can be coupled to the other end of thebeam 10 in a manner identical to that described above. In this way beams 10 or other similarly configured elements can be coupled with the abovementioned panels to form arrangements of any desired configuration. If desired a sealingplug 67 can be inserted into the locating bore between theflexible member 63 to seal the bore. - Alternatively it may be necessary to couple together multiple beam elements to form a framework of a desired configuration. In this case an alternative form of coupling as shown in Figures 7 to 10 can be used.
- The coupling part 70 of Figure 7 comprises a one piece moulded plastics structure of generally rectangular form. The part 70 has a protruding
peripheral lip 71 which extends around the full length of the periphery. A central solidcylindrical locating member 72 projects upwardly from a surface of the part 70 in a direction opposed to theperipheral lip 71. Four lockingmembers 73 also of solid cylindrical form extend upwardly from the surface and are disposed generally at each corner of the part. The diagonal axes ofsymmetry members 73 and the central locatingmember 72. The lockingmembers 73 project a smaller distance from the part 70 than the locatingmember 72 and are of smaller diameter. Fixingapertures 76 are also provided on opposite sides of the locatingmember 72 and are disposed equi-spaced between the two lockingmembers 73 on respective sides of the locatingmember 72. The centres of the two lockingmembers 73 and the fixingaperture 76 on each respective side of the locatingmember 72 lie on lines which are substantially parallel to the edges of the part 70. - The
coupling part 80 shown in Figure 8 is hollow and is of generally half-cubical form having a base 81 and fourupstanding side walls 82. - The
base 81 is generally rectangular and is provided with a central locating bore 83 and four locking bores 84 of smaller diameter at respective corners of thebase 81. A grippingportion 85 is provided midway along each side edge of the base 81 adjacent theside walls 82, and takes the form of a recess having an inclinedlower surface 86 thereto, each recess extending partly into thebase 81 andside walls 82. On eachside wall 82 two lockingopenings 87 are provided, one on each side of therecess 85. Theopenings 87 are generally rectangular with alower end 88 thereof being curved. Theopenings 87 extend from the edge linking the base 81 to theside wall 82 to a position lower than a bottom edge of therecess 85. A semi-circular cut-out 89 is provided in eachside wall 82 for a purpose to be described hereinafter. - The interior of the
coupling part 80 is shown in Figure 9. Fourplanar webs 91 project transversely from the centre of theside walls 82 and extend to the edge of the locating bore 83. Thesewebs 91 serve a dual purpose in so far as they act to increase the strength of thepart 80 and a further purpose to be described hereinafter.Similar webs 92 are provided around each locking bore 84, one 93 of which extends from the edge of the respective locking bore 84 to the edge of the central locating bore 83. Further block supports 94 of triangular form are provided disposed adjacent the base side wall andwebs 91 to further increase the strength of the coupling. - In use two coupling parts as shown in Figure 8 are joined together in any suitable manner. For example, the
parts 80 can be adapted to snap fit together or they can be pinned together, such that a single coupling part of substantially cubical form is defined. The coupling part so defined has a central locating bore 83 on each of the six faces thereof and has corner locking bores 84 on two faces andcorner locking openings 87 on four faces thereof. - A connection part 70 is fixed onto at least one end of a beam (not shown) to be coupled by insertion of screws or the like through the fixing
apertures 76. Alternatively the connection part 70 and/or beam end(s) can be suitably adapted such that the part 70 can be a snap or push fit onto the beam end(s). - With a cubic coupling formed as above and a connection part 70 secured to the beam end(s), frameworks of beam elements of a desired configuration can be constructed as follows.
- The locating
member 72 of the connection part 70 is inserted through the locating bore 83 in one face of the cubic coupling and the beam (not shown) is rotated about the locatingmember 72 until the beam is in a desired angular disposition relative to the coupling and the lockingmembers 73 are engaged in the locking bores 84 or lockingopenings 87. With the embodiments shown in Figures 7 to 10, four lockingmembers 73 and bores are provided and therefore the beam can be positioned in one of four angular dispositions spaced by 90°, however it is possible to provide any number of lockingmembers 73 and locking bores 84 or lockingopenings 87 as desired or as appropriate. - With the locking
members 73 engaged in the locking bores 84 oropenings 87 the beam is held fixed in position relative to the coupling. In this respect theplanar webs members 73 and locatingmembers 72 when engaged in the cubic coupling. Thus it will be appreciated that by use of multiple cubic couplings it is possible to build up a framework of beam elements, however with the above described configuration of coupling it is only possible for such elements to extend at right angles to each other. Of course a number of different couplings having faces inclined at various angles to each other can be provided in order that different inclinations of beam elements relative to each other can be obtained, an example of a suitable half-cubic coupling 100 for this purpose is shown in Figure 10. - It will be further appreciated that by use of two similar or
identical halves gripping portions 85 on eachhalf coupling - If when the framework is completed, one or more faces of the or each cubic coupling are unused, a finishing
part 101 such as is shown in Figure 11 can be used to provide an attractive finish thereto. Thepart 101 comprises acentral locating member 102 andcorner locking members 103 mounted on aplanar sheet 104. The locatingmember 102 and lockingmembers 103 are inserted into the corresponding bores in the cubic coupling leaving thereverse side 105 of theplanar sheet 104 exposed. Suchreverse side 105 can be used for the display of advertising and/or promotional material. - As an alternative to the panel structure described above, it is possible to modify the structure thereof such that the panels have integral removable mountings (not shown) provided thereon and/or an integral lighting system (not shown). Such modification can take the form of channels in the cross-bars of the panel frame which channels are generally T-shaped. In the former case the mountings comprise generally T-shaped members which are adapted to be slidingly engageable in the channel. Thus the mountings can be moved to any suitable position along a respective cross-bar and as many such mountings can be provided as desired.
- In the latter case, lights of strip form can be mounted within the channel, and in this case one of the outer bars of the frame is adapted to receive the connecting wires therefor.
- With the arrangements described above it is possible to erect multiple elements in a simple and versatile manner and moreover it is possible to construct enclosures which are capable of being readily rearranged and are secure when constructed.
- Furthermore it is possible to construct structures which can occupy limited spaces and where it is desired to divide an area such as an office into smaller parts it is possible to construct the structure after interior decoration is completed.
- It is of course to be understood that the invention is not intended to be restricted to the details of the above embodiments which are described by way of example only.
Claims (28)
- A coupling for connection of at least two elements, said coupling comprising a first part (10) provided on each respective element and a second part (20) adapted to engage, and thereby link, said first parts, characterised in that each said first part (10) or said second part (20) including a central female formation (15) and a plurality of female components (16) provided angularly spaced therearound, and the other of each said first part (10) or said second part (20) includes at least one male formation (24) having a plurality of male components (27) angularly spaced therearound, whereby said elements can be secured together in a predetermined angular disposition by engagement of each said male component (27) on one said part with a respective female component (16) on another said part.
- A coupling according to claim 1 wherein said elements comprise one or more panels and/or one or more beams.
- A coupling according to claim 1 or claim 2 wherein two said first parts (10) are mounted on each said element at top and bottom edges thereof respectively.
- A coupling according to claim 3 wherein two said second parts (20) are provided to link respective said first parts (10) on adjacent said elements.
- A coupling according to claim 3 wherein a single said second part (20) is provided to link respective said first parts (10) on adjacent said elements.
- A coupling according to claim 5 wherein a locking clip (60) is provided which acts to lock said first and second parts (10 and 20).
- A coupling according to claim 6 wherein said locking clip (60) extends through said first and second parts (10 and 20).
- A coupling according to claim 6 or claim 7 wherein said locking clip (60) is adapted at one or both ends thereof for engagement with one or more of said parts (10 or 20).
- A coupling according to claim 8 wherein said adaptation comprises an enlarged part (61) at one end thereof and locking projections (65) at another end thereof.
- A coupling according to claim 9 wherein said enlarged part (61) is generally circular in shape.
- A coupling according to claim 9 or claim 10 wherein said enlarged part (61) has a peripheral lip (62) thereto.
- A coupling according to any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein said locking projections (65) are substantially triangular in shape.
- A coupling according to any one of claims 9 to 12 wherein between said enlarged part (61) and said locking projections (65), the locking clip comprises two or more resilient members (63).
- A coupling according to any one of claims 1 to 13 wherein each said first part (10) has a locating bore (24) in which said second part (20) engages.
- A coupling according to claim 14 wherein said formations (24) on each said second part comprise multiple locating members projecting therefrom which engage said locating bores (15) in said first parts thereby to link said elements.
- A coupling according to claim 15 wherein said locating members (24) are rotatable within said locating bores.
- A coupling according to claim 15 or claim 16 wherein said locating members (24) are of hollow cylindrical configuration.
- A coupling according to any one of claims 14 to 17 wherein said first part (10) is further provided with a plurality of locking bores (16) symmetrically disposed around said locating bores (15).
- A coupling according to claim 18 wherein said locking bores (16) are arranged equiangularly around the periphery of said locating bore (15).
- A coupling according to claim 19 wherein eight such bores (16) are provided spaced by 45° from each other around said periphery.
- A coupling according to any one of claims 15 to 20 wherein each said second part (20) has multiple locking members (27) symmetrically disposed around each said locating member (24).
- A coupling according to claim 21 wherein said locking members (27) are of hollow cylindrical configuration.
- A coupling according to any one of claims 18 to 22 wherein said locking members (27) are adapted to engage in said locking bores (16) thereby to secure said parts (10, 20) in fixed disposition.
- A coupling according to any one of claims 21 to 23 wherein four said locking members (27) are provided spaced angularly by 90°.
- A coupling according to claim 1 wherein said first part (10) is provided with at least one locating member (24) having a plurality of locking members (27) disposed symmetrically therearound.
- A coupling according to claim 25 wherein said second part (20) has multiple locating bores (15) provided therein with a plurality of locking bores (16) disposed symmetrically around each said bore (15) whereby multiple elements can be coupled by a single second part (20).
- A coupling according to claim 25 or claim 26 wherein said second part (20) is cuboid having six faces thereto with a locating bore (15) and associated locking bores (16) in each of the six faces thereof.
- A coupling according to claim 27 wherein one or more faces of said second part (20) are arranged such that each such face is inclined to one or more adjacent faces at an angle substantially greater than 90° thereto.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
GB8916983 | 1989-07-25 | ||
GB898916983A GB8916983D0 (en) | 1989-07-25 | 1989-07-25 | A coupling |
GB9000579 | 1990-01-10 | ||
GB9000579A GB2234286A (en) | 1989-07-25 | 1990-01-10 | Room divider partitions and couplings therefor. |
PCT/GB1990/001150 WO1991001416A1 (en) | 1989-07-25 | 1990-07-25 | A coupling |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP0494155A1 EP0494155A1 (en) | 1992-07-15 |
EP0494155B1 true EP0494155B1 (en) | 1996-03-27 |
Family
ID=26295656
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP90912298A Expired - Lifetime EP0494155B1 (en) | 1989-07-25 | 1990-07-25 | A coupling |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP0494155B1 (en) |
AT (1) | ATE136084T1 (en) |
AU (1) | AU6270090A (en) |
DE (1) | DE69026267D1 (en) |
GB (1) | GB2234286A (en) |
WO (1) | WO1991001416A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US5347778A (en) * | 1993-04-07 | 1994-09-20 | Globe Business Furniture, Inc. | Partition joining system |
US5586593A (en) * | 1995-06-30 | 1996-12-24 | Hunt Holdings, Inc. | Partitioning system |
DE19630632A1 (en) * | 1996-07-29 | 1998-02-05 | Preform Raumgliederungssysteme | Mobile partition |
Family Cites Families (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
FR1253370A (en) * | 1959-12-31 | 1961-02-10 | Device for automatic fixing and dismantling of a building element | |
US3428108A (en) * | 1967-12-20 | 1969-02-18 | Singer Partitions Inc | Panel connector |
US3895670A (en) * | 1972-01-03 | 1975-07-22 | Laminite Plastics Mfg Corp | Space divider |
US3841042A (en) * | 1973-03-13 | 1974-10-15 | Tiffany Industries | Panel locking devices |
US3916972A (en) * | 1973-09-28 | 1975-11-04 | Steelcase Inc | Partition system |
US3987838A (en) * | 1975-08-04 | 1976-10-26 | The Glen O'brien Movable Partition Co., Inc. | Partition system |
DE2704954A1 (en) * | 1977-02-07 | 1978-08-10 | Otto Prof Dipl Ing D Jungbluth | SPATIAL STRUCTURAL STRUCTURE OF BARS AND NODE BODIES |
DE2733283A1 (en) * | 1977-07-22 | 1979-02-08 | Herrmann Hans Joachim | Extruded profile for modular frame - has rounded edges with steps to seat facing panels and apertures to locate coupling plates |
GB2045851B (en) * | 1979-01-19 | 1982-11-17 | Anglo Dutch Pty Ltd | Space divider panel |
DE2941008C2 (en) * | 1979-10-10 | 1981-09-10 | Gebrüder Vieler GmbH, 5860 Iserlohn | frame |
DE3023064A1 (en) * | 1980-06-20 | 1982-01-07 | Bernhard Dipl.-Ing. 4250 Bottrop Küppers | Screwed tubular bar lattice nodal connector - has sockets arranged in diamond form, flat shafted screw and driving disc |
US4388786A (en) * | 1981-01-30 | 1983-06-21 | Kurt Gassler | Construction means for use in the assembly of wall and/or roof structures |
US4493172A (en) * | 1982-08-06 | 1985-01-15 | Jones Brian D | Connector system |
FR2573459B1 (en) * | 1984-11-20 | 1987-11-27 | Mourgue Pascal | ASSEMBLY DEVICE FOR PANELS USEFUL FOR THE FITTING OF OFFICE SPACES |
WO1989003461A1 (en) * | 1987-10-07 | 1989-04-20 | Grimm Friedrich B | Nodal assembly |
SE458286B (en) * | 1988-03-18 | 1989-03-13 | Termofrost Sweden Ab | VAEGGSYSTEM |
-
1990
- 1990-01-10 GB GB9000579A patent/GB2234286A/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1990-07-25 AU AU62700/90A patent/AU6270090A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1990-07-25 EP EP90912298A patent/EP0494155B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1990-07-25 WO PCT/GB1990/001150 patent/WO1991001416A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 1990-07-25 AT AT90912298T patent/ATE136084T1/en active
- 1990-07-25 DE DE69026267T patent/DE69026267D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU6270090A (en) | 1991-02-22 |
GB9000579D0 (en) | 1990-03-14 |
DE69026267D1 (en) | 1996-05-02 |
GB2234286A (en) | 1991-01-30 |
ATE136084T1 (en) | 1996-04-15 |
EP0494155A1 (en) | 1992-07-15 |
WO1991001416A1 (en) | 1991-02-07 |
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