EP4182511A1 - Modular frame structure for a demountable wall system with a novel profile assembly - Google Patents

Modular frame structure for a demountable wall system with a novel profile assembly

Info

Publication number
EP4182511A1
EP4182511A1 EP21755056.5A EP21755056A EP4182511A1 EP 4182511 A1 EP4182511 A1 EP 4182511A1 EP 21755056 A EP21755056 A EP 21755056A EP 4182511 A1 EP4182511 A1 EP 4182511A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
profile
wall
frame structure
leg
contact
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP21755056.5A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Inventor
Brecht LAMOTE
Roel Vandebeek
Dominiek CALLEWIER
Kris DEKEYZER
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Avc Gemino
Original Assignee
Avc Gemino
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Avc Gemino filed Critical Avc Gemino
Publication of EP4182511A1 publication Critical patent/EP4182511A1/en
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • 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
    • E04B2/7448—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 separate framed panels without intermediary posts, extending from floor to ceiling
    • E04B2/745—Glazing details
    • 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
    • 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
    • E04B2/82—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge characterised by the manner in which edges are connected to the building; Means therefor; Special details of easily-removable partitions as far as related to the connection with other parts of the building
    • E04B2/821—Connections between two opposed surfaces (i.e. floor and ceiling) by means of a device offering a restraining force acting in the plane of the partition
    • 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
    • E04B2002/7461—Details of connection of sheet panels to frame or posts
    • E04B2002/7462—Details of connection of sheet panels to frame or posts using resilient connectors, e.g. clips

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to, on the one hand, a modular frame structure which is suitable for dividing a space, comprising a number of wall panels, a top profiled section which is fastenable to a ceiling structure, a bottom profiled section which is fastenable to a floor structure, and a number of lateral profiles which are fastenable to a side structure which are configured to extend between a ceiling structure and floor structure, wherein at least the top profiled section, bottom profiled section or at least one of the lateral profiles consists of a profile assembly to which at least one wall panel is fastenable.
  • the present invention relates to a wall system comprising such a frame structure.
  • Said wall system is preferably a demountable wall system in which the wall panels used are glass panels.
  • Demountable wall systems and in particular a demountable wall system comprising glass panels, are known and are used in particular to divide floors of residential or commercial buildings in an efficient and flexible way into different spaces which are accessible to people. Often, these wall systems are used to divide an office floor of a building into working spaces, meeting rooms, corridors, storage spaces and the like.
  • demountable wall systems Compared to traditional, fixed wall systems, demountable wall systems have the advantage that, after fitting, they can be demounted, moved and reinstalled in a different location relatively quickly. Often, the panels are exchangeable, so that the wall system may be adapted to the specific requirements of the surroundings and wishes of the user.
  • the described profile assembly comprises a contact profile which can be fastened securely to the ceiling or the floor or a supporting structure and a telescopic profile rod which is slidably (telescopically) connected to the contact profile.
  • the telescopic profile rod is provided with an invitation seat and coupling seat which can accommodate a coupling profile rod fastened to a glass panel.
  • Such a frame structure makes it readily possible to fit a glass panel in the profile assembly.
  • a drawback of the described frame structure is the fact that the glass panel has to be fastened to said coupling profile rod which is effected by means of an adhesive connection, as a result of which it is impossible or virtually impossible to subsequently detach the glass panel from the coupling profile rod and replace it with another panel consisting of a different material and/or having a different thickness.
  • the object of the invention is achieved by providing a modular frame structure suitable for dividing a space, comprising a number of wall panels, a top profiled section which is fastenable to a ceiling structure, a bottom profiled section which is fastenable to a floor structure, and a number of lateral profiles which are fastenable to a side structure and which are configured to extend between a ceiling structure and floor structure, wherein at least the top profiled section, bottom profiled section or at least one of the lateral profiles consists of a profile assembly to which at least one wall panel is fastenable, wherein the top profiled section, bottom profiled section and said lateral profiles are configured as an identical profile assembly comprising: - a contact profile with a bottom wall which can be connected to a floor structure, ceiling structure or side structure and wherein the contact profile comprises two side walls which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall;
  • At least one supporting device which is connected to a side wall of the contact profile and which is provided with: a first leg with a free end which extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile and forms a support part for supporting a wall panel, a second leg with a free end which extends parallel, or nearly parallel, to the first leg, wherein a fastening slot is formed between the first and second leg into which the securing profile is clampable by means of a clamping rubber, wherein the supporting device furthermore comprises a support rubber against which a secured wall panel rests or presses.
  • the frame structure according to the invention is constructed from an identical top profiled section, bottom profiled section and lateral profiles, the view is the same everywhere, which is visually more attractive.
  • the frame structure is also easily fittable and can readily be assembled.
  • the supporting device uses both a support rubber and a clamping rubber, whose dimensions and shape can be adapted on the basis of the thickness of the wall panels used, it becomes possible to fit different thicknesses of wall panels in the frame structure using the same profile assembly, in which case the juxtaposed panels will lie in the same plane.
  • wall panels with a thickness of between 10 mm and 13 mm, including 10 mm and 13 mm may.
  • such a frame structure makes it easy to connect wall panels of different thicknesses with each other. Due to the fact that the juxtaposed panels are in the same plane, even if there is a variation in thickness between juxtaposed profiles, the securing profiles used will neatly align and adjoin each other, as a result of which no unevenness occurs in the shadow gap.
  • the shadow gap is formed on the bottom side of the frame structure and is the result of the shadow formed by the bottom side of the second leg.
  • the two side walls of the contact profile comprise such a supporting device which is provided with a support part for supporting a wall panel and which support part extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall.
  • Two wall panels may be mounted on such a profile assembly in which the two upright side walls are provided with a support part, at an intermediate distance apart.
  • the panel in order to install the wall panels, the panel has to be introduced into the slot of the ceiling profile and be lifted in order to then be lowered into the slot of the floor profile. Consequently, the slot of the ceiling profile has to be sufficiently deep to allow for the lifting and lowering during installation. Because the panels, for example in the case of glass panels, are often heavy and the installation requires relatively complicated movements in a limited space, the installation of the glass panels is not easy and panels may be damaged if they are not installed correctly. It is also relatively difficult to remove the panel.
  • the profile assembly comprises at least one releasable securing profile which can easily be fixed in the fastening groove by means of a clamping rubber.
  • the securing profile is fastenable in the fastening slot by means of a click-fit connection.
  • the fastening slot in a preferred embodiment of the frame structure, comprises a retaining element which, in the mounted position, prevents the securing profile from coming loose again.
  • the securing profile comprises a front wall and a fastening leg which extends perpendicularly to the front wall and whose end, in the mounted position, engages behind the retaining element in order to bring about the click-fit connection.
  • the fastening leg comprises a T-shaped recess suitable for accommodating a clamping profile which is configured to clamp the securing profile into the fastening slot.
  • the profile assembly comprises a cover profile which is connectable to the contact profile.
  • the cover profile comprises a visible wall section.
  • the wall section may be coloured in accordance with the wishes of the user.
  • the cover profile is preferably fastenable to the contact profile by means of a click-fit connection.
  • the cover profile comprises two mounting legs which extend perpendicularly to the wall section and whose ends, in the mounted position, engage behind a respective detaining edge.
  • the respective detaining edges are provided in the internal space of the contact profile, in particular on the upright legs of the contact profile.
  • said supporting device is fixedly connected to a side wall of the contact profile.
  • the contact profile and the supporting device(s) are designed as a single profile.
  • the present invention provides a second preferred embodiment of the frame structure according to the invention, wherein said supporting device is a supporting device which is fittable to the side walls and movable with respect to the contact profile.
  • the supporting device comprises two support parts which each extend along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile.
  • Two wall panels can be mounted at an intermediate distance apart on such a profile assembly, using two support parts, each of which supports a wall section.
  • the support profile is movable with respect to the contact profile, irregularities, in particular in the floor surface on which (or onto which) the profile assembly is fitted, can be allowed for. It is also possible to align juxtaposed panels accurately with respect to each other and to adjust the height of the shadow gap.
  • the profile assembly of the frame structure according to the invention preferably comprises an adjusting means, preferably an adjusting screw, which is configured to move the supporting device with respect to the contact profile. This movement is effected by rotating the adjusting means with the help of a tool which is suitable for the purpose.
  • the adjusting means is preferably made in two parts, on the one hand an element which is provided with a screw thread, such as e.g. a threaded bush or bolt and, on the other hand an element which is movable across the screw thread by rotation, e.g. a nut or butterfly-shaped element.
  • the bottom wall of the contact profile is provided with a single-part elastic fixing profile which comprises a base body with at least two flexible arms, wherein the flexible arms are upright with respect to the base body on a side of the base body which is situated opposite the side where the contact profile is arranged and which, in use, will be compressed against a floor or ceiling and thus prevent a displacement of the profile assembly.
  • the base body extends beyond the bottom wall of the contact profile.
  • the fixing profile is preferably made of an elastomer or a thermoplastic. Consequently, the fixing profile will also contribute to better acoustics due to its composition. Due to the elasticity of the fixing profile, relatively small irregularities in the floor structure or ceiling structure can also be compensated for.
  • a number of said flexible arms are upright in a first direction and a number of said flexible arms are upright in a second direction which differs from the first direction. Due to the fact that the flexible arms do not all extend in the same direction, an improved clamping action is achieved. In addition, the displacement of the wall with respect to the floor will be counteracted.
  • the bottom wall comprises one or more receiving chambers for fastening the base body to the contact profile.
  • the side of the base body where the contact profile is arranged comprises at least one projecting fastening part which forms an integral part of the base body of the elastic fixing profile.
  • the receiving chambers are preferably provided with a collar behind which a part of the fastening part of the clamping rubber (clamping profile) can hook.
  • the frame structure according to the present invention can preferably accommodate two wall panels, preferably glass panels, which are placed a distance apart.
  • wall panel includes a glass panel, a metal panel, a wooden panel, composite panels, plaster panels, upholstered acoustic panels, plastic panels, concrete panels, etc.
  • Fig. 1 shows a diagrammatic representation of the frame structure with wall panels according to the invention in which the bottom profiled section, top profiled section and both lateral profiles are designed as an identical profile assembly;
  • Fig. 2 shows a cross section of the profile assembly according to a first preferred embodiment
  • Fig. 3 shows a cross section of the profile assembly illustrated in Fig. 2 and provided with a securing profile and cover profile;
  • Fig. 4 shows a cross section of the profile assembly according to a second preferred embodiment in which the contact profile serves as an adjusting profile which makes the profile assembly height-adjustable;
  • Fig. 5 shows a cross section of the profile assembly illustrated in Fig. 4 and provided with a securing profile and cover profile
  • Fig. 6 shows a cross section of the profile assembly according to the second embodiment which is suitable for accommodating two spaced-apart wall panels and on which an adjusting means is shown;
  • Fig. 7 shows a diagrammatic representation of a wall system according to the invention composed of a ceiling structure and floor structure, a wall panel and two uprights in which a profile assembly according to the second embodiment is used;
  • Fig. 8 shows a section of the wall system along the line A- A illustrated in Fig. 7;
  • Fig. 9 shows a section of the wall system along the line B-B illustrated in Fig. 7;
  • Fig. 10 shows a number of possible embodiments (see Figs. 10.1 to 10.4) of a securing profile which is clamped in the fastening groove in order to secure a glass panel supported on the first leg;
  • Fig. 11 shows a cross section of an alternative embodiment of the first embodiment in which the contact profile and fixing profile are designed as a single profile-shaped contact element;
  • Fig. 12 shows an alternative embodiment of the profile assembly illustrated in Fig. 5 in which the internal space of the support profile is provided with two guide grooves which extend next to each other;
  • Fig. 13 explains the way in which the profile assembly is assembled
  • Figs. 14 and 15 illustrate that it is possible to mount panels of different thicknesses on the same profile assembly and that these can also be placed at a certain distance from the support part;
  • Fig. 16 shows a cross section which demonstrates that an identical profile assembly is fittable both vertically and horizontally, thus resulting in an identical visible profile all around;
  • Fig. 17 illustrates a number of possible embodiments of support rubbers which may be selected on the basis of the thickness of the panel to be fitted.
  • the profile assembly (1) forms part of a demountable wall system which can be used to divide a space.
  • a wall system as inter alia illustrated in Figs. 7, 8 and 16, comprises at least a vertical wall panel (2), two uprights (22) which extend between a ceiling structure and floor structure, a top profiled section (23) which is fastened to the ceiling structure and a bottom profiled section (24) which is fastened to the floor structure.
  • the uprights (22) and the top profiled section (23) and bottom profiled section (24) are of identical design as a profile assembly (1) according to the invention, as described above.
  • the profile assembly (1) as used in the frame structure according to the invention comprises the following:
  • a contact profile (3) with a bottom wall (4) which can be connected to a floor structure, ceiling structure or side structure and in which the contact profile (3) comprises two side walls (9) which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall (4);
  • - at least one supporting device (10; 20) which is connected to a side wall (9) of the contact profile (3) and is provided with: a first leg (11) with a free end which extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile (3) and forms a support part for supporting a wall panel (2), a second leg (26) with a free end which extends parallel, or nearly parallel, to the first leg (11).
  • a fastening slot (13) is formed between the first (11) and second leg (26) in which the securing profile (12) is clampable by means of a clamping rubber (18), and the supporting device (10) furthermore comprises a support rubber (32) on which a secured wall panel (2) rests or presses.
  • the fitted wall panel (2) is preferably a glass panel, but may obviously also be a metal panel, a wooden panel, a composite panel, a plaster panel, an upholstered acoustic panel, a plastic panel, a concrete panel or a similar panel.
  • the fitted wall panels (2) have a thickness from 10 mm to 13 mm.
  • the profile assembly (1) is preferably mounted in an internal space without using mechanical (permanent) fastening means in order to mount the profile assembly (1) on a suitable mounting structure. This will, on the one hand, considerably reduce the fitting time or demounting time and, on the other hand, prevent the respective mounting structure from becoming damaged.
  • the profile assembly (1) comprises a contact profile (3) of aluminium or another suitable material as the outer profile, with a bottom wall (4) and two upright side walls (9).
  • the outer side of the respective bottom wall (4) is provided with a single-part elastic fixing profile (5) which comprises a base body (6) with at least two flexible arms (7a; 7b).
  • the flexible arms (7a; 7b) are upright with respect to the base body (6) on the side of the base body (6) which is situated opposite the side of the base body (6) where the contact profile (3) is arranged.
  • the flexible arms (7a; 7b) will at least partly be compressed against a floor or ceiling and will thus prevent a displacement of the profile assembly (1).
  • the profile assembly (1) serves as an upright (22)
  • the respective arms (7a; 7b) will be compressed against the adjacent structure.
  • This may be a brick wall, but this may also be an adjacent panel (2). This is the case, for example, when a corner is to be formed by means of the panels (2).
  • the fixing profile (5) Due to the presence of the elastic fixing profile (5), it is possible to use the own weight of the wall panels (2) in order to keep the profile assembly (1) in its place.
  • the flexible arms (7a; 7b) will prevent a lateral displacement.
  • the fixing profile (5) is preferably made of an elastomer or a thermoplastic. Due to its composition, its positioning between the outer (contact) profile and the adjacent structure to which the profile assembly (1) is fitted, and the orientation of the flexible arms (7a; 7b), the fixing profile (5) will also contribute to improved acoustics. Due to the elasticity of the fixing profile, relatively small irregularities in the floor structure or ceiling structure can also be compensated for.
  • the base body (6) of the fixing profile (5) extends beyond the bottom wall (4) of the contact profile (3).
  • the base body (6) may also be less wide than the width of the contact profile (3).
  • the flexible arms (7a; 7b) may extend in different directions, preferably in a direction which is directed away from the contact profile (3).
  • a number of said flexible arms (7a) are upright in a first direction and a number of said flexible arms (7b) are upright in a second direction which differs from the first direction. Due to the fact that not all the flexible arms (7a; 7b) extend in the same direction, an improved fastening is achieved.
  • the different orientation of the arms (7a; 7b) also benefits the acoustics.
  • the respective bottom wall (4) comprises one, two or more receiving chambers (8) and the side of the base body (6) where the contact profile (3) is arranged comprises two projecting fastening parts (25) which are fitted a distance apart and form an integral part of the base body (6) of the elastic fixing profile (5).
  • the shape of the fastening parts (25) may thus correspond to the shape of the receiving chamber (8).
  • the receiving chambers (8) as represented in Figs. 4 and 5 may be provided with a collar behind which a part of the fastening part (25) of the fixing profile (5) can hook.
  • a part of the fastening part (25) may also be hollow.
  • the fastening parts (25) as represented in Fig. 12 may also be T- shaped.
  • the contact profile may be designed as a single-part profile-shaped contact element (31).
  • the respective contact element is made of plastic, more particularly of a rubber.
  • a first or second embodiment of the profile assembly (1) according to the invention.
  • the first embodiment is illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, and is used in spaces with a relatively even surface on which or to which the profile assembly (1) will be fitted.
  • the second embodiment of the profile assembly (1) provides a height adjustment with which irregularities may be compensated for.
  • a profile assembly (1) it is also possible to create an even shadow gap.
  • panels (2) fitted in line can be aligned perfectly with respect to each other without too much effort.
  • Both the first and second embodiment of the profile assembly (1) are suitable for accommodating at least one wall panel (2).
  • the profile assembly (1) is designed to accommodate two wall panels (2) which are spaced apart and have been fitted parallel to each other in order to produce a double-walled structure.
  • the resulting intermediate space between the two wall panels (2) may be filled with air, but may, if necessary, be filled with a suitable insulating material.
  • the contact profile (3) comprises two side walls (9) which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall (4). Both side walls (9) are provided with a supporting device (10) with a first leg (11) with a free end and which forms a support part for supporting a wall panel (2). This support part (11) extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall (9) of the contact profile (3).
  • the supporting body (11) and the contact profile (3) together form a single profile.
  • a wall panel (2) can be fitted on the first leg (11) (support part) in a frontal way.
  • the fitting of a wall panel (2) may be effected directly, but often an intermediate piece or calibration element (small cube) (not shown) is placed between the first leg and the underside of the wall panel (2) in order to compensate for any differences in height.
  • the wall panel (2) may be secured. This is achieved by means of a securing profile (12) which is suitable for the purpose and which is preferably made of aluminium.
  • the securing profile (12) is of an L-shaped design and comprises a front wall (15) and a fastening leg (16) which extends perpendicularly to the front wall (15).
  • the securing profile (12) is fastened in the fastening slot (13) which is formed between the first (11) and second leg (26).
  • the respective fastening slot (13) extends under the first leg (11).
  • the fastening slot (13) has an access opening which is delimited by the free end of the first leg (11) and a collar (27) which is provided at the free end of the second leg (26) which extends at a distance from first leg (11) and parallel thereto.
  • the securing profile (12) is at least partly accommodable in the fastening slot (13).
  • the securing profile (12) is fastenable in the fastening slot (13) by means of a clamping rubber (18) and optionally also a click-fit connection.
  • the internal space of the fastening slot (13) in a preferred embodiment, comprises a retaining element (14) which prevents, in the mounted position, the securing profile (12) from coming loose again.
  • the click-fit connection is achieved by the fact that, in the mounted position, the end of the fastening leg (16) of the securing profile (12) engages behind the retaining element (14).
  • the fastening leg (16) also comprises a T- shaped recess (17) which is suitable for accommodating the clamping rubber (18), which is configured to clamp the securing profile (12) in the fastening slot (13).
  • the profile assembly (1) furthermore comprises a cover profile (19) which is connectable to the contact profile (3). Due to the cover profile (19) being fitted, the contact profile will no longer be visible. This has the advantage that the contact profile can be fitted relatively early in the construction process, for example even before the client has decided on the colour of the construction. As the contact profile is produced in a neutral colour, it can be used in different projects.
  • the cover profile (19) has a visible wall section which may be coloured according to the wishes of the user. This has the advantage that the client is free to choose his desired colour up to a relatively advanced stage of the building process.
  • the cover profile (19) is also fastenable to the contact profile (3) by means of a click-fit connection.
  • the cover profile (19) comprises two mounting legs (28) which extend perpendicularly to the wall section and whose ends, in the mounted position, engage behind a respective detaining edge (29).
  • the respective detaining edges (29) are provided in the internal space of the contact profile (3), in particular on the upright side walls (9) of the contact profile (3).
  • the contact profile (3) with its two side walls (9) which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall (4) serves as an adjusting profile.
  • the respective profile assembly (1) comprises a supporting device (20) which is fittable to the side walls (9) and movable with respect to the contact profile (3).
  • the supporting device (20) which is made of aluminium, just like the contact profile (3), is movable over the side walls (9) of the contact profile (3) by means of an adjusting means (21).
  • the adjusting means (21) may be designed as a single part, e.g. in the form of an adjusting screw.
  • the wall panels (2) can be positioned higher or lower.
  • the supporting device (20) comprises a bottom wall and two upright side walls. Both side walls are provided with a first leg (11) with a free end which forms a support part and is provided in order to support a wall panel (20). This first leg (11) extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile (3).
  • the supporting device (20) is a single-part profile which is movably fastened to the contact profile (3). As the supporting device (20) is movable with respect to the contact profile (3), irregularities, in particular in the floor surface onto which the profile assembly (1) is placed, may be compensated for. It is also possible to accurately align juxtaposed panels with respect to each other and the height of the shadow gap is adjustable.
  • the internal space of the support profile (20) may be provided with one or more guide grooves (30) in which certain elements or components may be mounted or fitted.
  • the narrower profiles it is possible, for example, to choose to provide only one guide groove (30).
  • two guide grooves (30) which are situated parallel with respect to each other may be provided in the wider profiles (see inter alia Figs. 11 and 12).
  • the wider profiles may also be provided with only one guide groove (30).
  • the dimensions of the guide groove may be adjusted.
  • Such guide grooves may, for example, be provided with a standard aligning angle profile. In this way, it is possible to accurately place panels at an angle.
  • the contact profile and fixing profile are designed as a single profile-shaped contact element (31) comprising a base body with the flexible arms on the one side, and two upright side walls for the connection to the support profile (20) on the opposite side.
  • the connection between the contact element (31) and the support profile (20) is brought about by clamping.
  • the side walls, preferably the outer sides thereof, may optionally be provided with a protuberance.
  • the wall panels (2) may be fitted to the first leg (11) of the supporting device (20) in a frontal way.
  • a wall panel (2) may be fitted directly onto the first leg (11), but often, an intermediate piece (not shown) or calibration element (small cube) is placed between the first leg (11) and the underside of the wall panel (2) in order to compensate for any differences in height.
  • the wall panel (2) can be secured, as is illustrated in Figs. 14 and 15. This is effected by means of the securing profile (12) described above which is preferably made of aluminium.
  • the securing profile (12) is of an L-shaped design and comprises a front wall and a fastening leg which extends perpendicularly to the front wall.
  • the securing profile (12) is fastened in the fastening slot (13) which is formed between the first (11) and second leg (26).
  • the respective fastening slot (13) extends under the first leg (11).
  • the fastening slot (13) has an access opening which is delimited by the free end of the first leg (11) and a collar (27) which is provided on the free end of the second leg (26) which extends at a distance from first leg (11) and parallel thereto.
  • the securing profile (12) is at least partly accommodable in the fastening slot (13).
  • the securing profile (12) is fastenable in the fastening slot (13) by means of a clamping rubber (18) and optionally also a click-fit connection.
  • the internal space of the fastening slot (13) in a preferred embodiment, comprises a retaining element (14) which, in the mounted position, prevents the securing profile (12) from coming loose again.
  • the click-fit connection is produced by the end of the fastening leg (16) of the securing profile (12), in the mounted position, engaging behind the retaining element (14).
  • the fastening leg (16) also comprises a T-shaped recess suitable for accommodating the clamping rubber (18), which is configured to clamp the securing profile (12) in the fastening slot (13).
  • the profile assembly (12) furthermore comprises a cover profile which is connectable to the support profile.
  • the cover profile is identical to that of the first embodiment and has a visible wall section which can be coloured in accordance with the wishes of the user.
  • the contact profile and support profile will no longer be visible.
  • the advantage thereof is that the contact profile and support profile can be fitted relatively early on in the construction process, e.g. even before the client has decided on the colour of the construction. As both the contact profile and the support profile are produced in a neutral colour, they can be used in different projects.
  • the cover profile (19) is also fastenable to the support profile (20) by means of a click-fit connection.
  • the cover profile (19) comprises two mounting legs (28) which extend perpendicularly to the wall section and whose ends, in the mounted position, engage behind a respective detaining edge (29).
  • the respective detaining edges (29) are provided in the internal space of the support profile (3), in particular on the upright legs of the support profile (3).
  • the securing profile (12) as shown in Fig. 10 may differ with regard to design or finish.
  • the securing profile (12) may furthermore be provided with additional functionalities, such as e.g. a shock-absorbing edge, lighting, power supply, etc.
  • the securing profile (12) can also be fitted on a contact profile (3) or supporting device (10; 20) of different widths and in this way, it is perfectly exchangeable with other systems, as a result of which it is possible to produce a profile assembly (1) with a greatly reduced number of different profiles.
  • wall panels with a thickness of 10 mm to 13 mm can be fitted in such a manner that the juxtaposed panels are in the same plane, even if the thickness of the juxtaposed panels deviates.
  • Fig. 17 shows a number of possible embodiments of a support rubber (32) which may be used with a wall panel (2) of a specific thickness.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Electromagnetism (AREA)
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Abstract

The present invention relates to a modular frame structure suitable for dividing a space, comprising a number of wall panels (2), comprising a profile assembly (1), wherein the top profiled section (23), bottom profiled section (24) and the lateral profiles (22) of the frame structure are configured as an identical profile assembly (1) comprising: - a contact profile (3) with a bottom wall (4) which can be connected to a floor structure, ceiling structure or side structure and wherein the contact profile (3) comprises two side walls (9) which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall (4); - at least one securing profile (12) configured to secure a wall panel (2); - at least one supporting device (10; 20) which is connected to a side wall (9) of the contact profile (3) and which is provided with: a first leg (11) with a free end which extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile (3) and forms a support part for supporting a wall panel (2), a second leg (26) with a free end which extends parallel, or nearly parallel, to the first leg (11), wherein a fastening slot (13) is formed between the first (11) and second leg (26) into which the securing profile (12) is clampable by means of a clamping rubber (18), wherein the supporting device (10) furthermore comprises a support rubber (32) against which a secured wall panel (2) rests or presses.

Description

MODULAR FRAME STRUC1 R A DEMOUNTABLE WALL
SYSTEM WITH A NOVEL PROFILE ASSEMBLY
The present invention relates to, on the one hand, a modular frame structure which is suitable for dividing a space, comprising a number of wall panels, a top profiled section which is fastenable to a ceiling structure, a bottom profiled section which is fastenable to a floor structure, and a number of lateral profiles which are fastenable to a side structure which are configured to extend between a ceiling structure and floor structure, wherein at least the top profiled section, bottom profiled section or at least one of the lateral profiles consists of a profile assembly to which at least one wall panel is fastenable. On the other hand, the present invention relates to a wall system comprising such a frame structure. Said wall system is preferably a demountable wall system in which the wall panels used are glass panels. Demountable wall systems, and in particular a demountable wall system comprising glass panels, are known and are used in particular to divide floors of residential or commercial buildings in an efficient and flexible way into different spaces which are accessible to people. Often, these wall systems are used to divide an office floor of a building into working spaces, meeting rooms, corridors, storage spaces and the like.
Compared to traditional, fixed wall systems, demountable wall systems have the advantage that, after fitting, they can be demounted, moved and reinstalled in a different location relatively quickly. Often, the panels are exchangeable, so that the wall system may be adapted to the specific requirements of the surroundings and wishes of the user.
With the known systems, the floor structure and ceiling structure, which is often constructed of U-shaped profiles, is fastened to the floor surface or ceiling surface by means of screws or adhesive. However, this method of fastening has the drawback that changing the configuration or definitely removing the wall system takes up considerable time. In addition, the floor or ceiling will be damaged due to the installation of the various profiles, which damage will remain visible in the form of drill holes or adhesive residues after the floor structure and ceiling structure has been removed. International patent publication WO 2015/075586 describes a modular frame structure for a partition wall made of glass panels, which comprises a profile assembly in order to at least form the bottom side, or the top side, or a fastening means, or column element provided between the bottom side and top side, of the frame structure. The described profile assembly comprises a contact profile which can be fastened securely to the ceiling or the floor or a supporting structure and a telescopic profile rod which is slidably (telescopically) connected to the contact profile. The telescopic profile rod is provided with an invitation seat and coupling seat which can accommodate a coupling profile rod fastened to a glass panel. Such a frame structure makes it readily possible to fit a glass panel in the profile assembly. A drawback of the described frame structure is the fact that the glass panel has to be fastened to said coupling profile rod which is effected by means of an adhesive connection, as a result of which it is impossible or virtually impossible to subsequently detach the glass panel from the coupling profile rod and replace it with another panel consisting of a different material and/or having a different thickness.
It is now an object of the present invention to provide a frame structure which can easily and quickly be fitted between a floor structure and ceiling structure, which, in addition, is easily demountable in order to be moved to a different configuration and/or in which it is easy to replace a fitted wall panel by another wall panel of a different thickness without the difference in thickness being visually visible to a passer-by.
The object of the invention is achieved by providing a modular frame structure suitable for dividing a space, comprising a number of wall panels, a top profiled section which is fastenable to a ceiling structure, a bottom profiled section which is fastenable to a floor structure, and a number of lateral profiles which are fastenable to a side structure and which are configured to extend between a ceiling structure and floor structure, wherein at least the top profiled section, bottom profiled section or at least one of the lateral profiles consists of a profile assembly to which at least one wall panel is fastenable, wherein the top profiled section, bottom profiled section and said lateral profiles are configured as an identical profile assembly comprising: - a contact profile with a bottom wall which can be connected to a floor structure, ceiling structure or side structure and wherein the contact profile comprises two side walls which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall;
- at least one securing profile configured to secure a wall panel;
- at least one supporting device which is connected to a side wall of the contact profile and which is provided with: a first leg with a free end which extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile and forms a support part for supporting a wall panel, a second leg with a free end which extends parallel, or nearly parallel, to the first leg, wherein a fastening slot is formed between the first and second leg into which the securing profile is clampable by means of a clamping rubber, wherein the supporting device furthermore comprises a support rubber against which a secured wall panel rests or presses.
Since the frame structure according to the invention is constructed from an identical top profiled section, bottom profiled section and lateral profiles, the view is the same everywhere, which is visually more attractive. The frame structure is also easily fittable and can readily be assembled.
Since the supporting device uses both a support rubber and a clamping rubber, whose dimensions and shape can be adapted on the basis of the thickness of the wall panels used, it becomes possible to fit different thicknesses of wall panels in the frame structure using the same profile assembly, in which case the juxtaposed panels will lie in the same plane. Preferably, wall panels with a thickness of between 10 mm and 13 mm, including 10 mm and 13 mm, may. In addition, such a frame structure makes it easy to connect wall panels of different thicknesses with each other. Due to the fact that the juxtaposed panels are in the same plane, even if there is a variation in thickness between juxtaposed profiles, the securing profiles used will neatly align and adjoin each other, as a result of which no unevenness occurs in the shadow gap. The shadow gap is formed on the bottom side of the frame structure and is the result of the shadow formed by the bottom side of the second leg.
Preferably, the two side walls of the contact profile comprise such a supporting device which is provided with a support part for supporting a wall panel and which support part extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall. Two wall panels may be mounted on such a profile assembly in which the two upright side walls are provided with a support part, at an intermediate distance apart.
With the known demountable systems which use U-shaped floor profiles and ceiling profiles, in order to install the wall panels, the panel has to be introduced into the slot of the ceiling profile and be lifted in order to then be lowered into the slot of the floor profile. Consequently, the slot of the ceiling profile has to be sufficiently deep to allow for the lifting and lowering during installation. Because the panels, for example in the case of glass panels, are often heavy and the installation requires relatively complicated movements in a limited space, the installation of the glass panels is not easy and panels may be damaged if they are not installed correctly. It is also relatively difficult to remove the panel. In order to address these issues, the profile assembly comprises at least one releasable securing profile which can easily be fixed in the fastening groove by means of a clamping rubber. By using such a securing profile, it is possible to fit (mount) wall panels in a frontal way. After the wall panel has been fitted in the frame structure, the wall panel can be fixed above, below and on the sides by means of the securing profile. In a preferred embodiment of the frame structure according to the invention, the securing profile is fastenable in the fastening slot by means of a click-fit connection.
In order to prevent the securing profile from coming loose again, the fastening slot, in a preferred embodiment of the frame structure, comprises a retaining element which, in the mounted position, prevents the securing profile from coming loose again. In particular, the securing profile comprises a front wall and a fastening leg which extends perpendicularly to the front wall and whose end, in the mounted position, engages behind the retaining element in order to bring about the click-fit connection. More particularly, the fastening leg comprises a T-shaped recess suitable for accommodating a clamping profile which is configured to clamp the securing profile into the fastening slot.
In a more particular embodiment, the profile assembly comprises a cover profile which is connectable to the contact profile. Preferably, the cover profile comprises a visible wall section. The wall section may be coloured in accordance with the wishes of the user. The cover profile is preferably fastenable to the contact profile by means of a click-fit connection. For the connection, the cover profile comprises two mounting legs which extend perpendicularly to the wall section and whose ends, in the mounted position, engage behind a respective detaining edge. The respective detaining edges are provided in the internal space of the contact profile, in particular on the upright legs of the contact profile.
In a first preferred embodiment of the frame structure according to the invention, said supporting device is fixedly connected to a side wall of the contact profile. In this embodiment, the contact profile and the supporting device(s) are designed as a single profile.
The traditional demountable wall systems do not take any variations in surfaces on which the system is mounted into account, such as warped floors and/or walls, uneven or non-parallel floors and/or ceilings, etc. In order to solve such problems, the present invention provides a second preferred embodiment of the frame structure according to the invention, wherein said supporting device is a supporting device which is fittable to the side walls and movable with respect to the contact profile. Preferably, the supporting device comprises two support parts which each extend along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile. Two wall panels can be mounted at an intermediate distance apart on such a profile assembly, using two support parts, each of which supports a wall section. Because the support profile is movable with respect to the contact profile, irregularities, in particular in the floor surface on which (or onto which) the profile assembly is fitted, can be allowed for. It is also possible to align juxtaposed panels accurately with respect to each other and to adjust the height of the shadow gap.
The profile assembly of the frame structure according to the invention preferably comprises an adjusting means, preferably an adjusting screw, which is configured to move the supporting device with respect to the contact profile. This movement is effected by rotating the adjusting means with the help of a tool which is suitable for the purpose. The adjusting means is preferably made in two parts, on the one hand an element which is provided with a screw thread, such as e.g. a threaded bush or bolt and, on the other hand an element which is movable across the screw thread by rotation, e.g. a nut or butterfly-shaped element.
According to a particular embodiment of the frame structure according to the invention, the bottom wall of the contact profile is provided with a single-part elastic fixing profile which comprises a base body with at least two flexible arms, wherein the flexible arms are upright with respect to the base body on a side of the base body which is situated opposite the side where the contact profile is arranged and which, in use, will be compressed against a floor or ceiling and thus prevent a displacement of the profile assembly. In a preferred embodiment, the base body extends beyond the bottom wall of the contact profile.
Due to the presence of the elastic fixing profile, it is possible to use the wall panels’ own weight in order to keep the profile assembly in place in those cases where the profile assembly is used as the bottom side of the frame structure. As a result thereof, it is no longer necessary to use mechanical (permanent) fastening means to mount and/or demount the wall system, which significantly reduces the fitting or demounting time. In addition, the floor and/or the ceiling will not be damaged. The fixing profile is preferably made of an elastomer or a thermoplastic. Consequently, the fixing profile will also contribute to better acoustics due to its composition. Due to the elasticity of the fixing profile, relatively small irregularities in the floor structure or ceiling structure can also be compensated for.
In a preferred embodiment of the profile assembly according to the invention, a number of said flexible arms are upright in a first direction and a number of said flexible arms are upright in a second direction which differs from the first direction. Due to the fact that the flexible arms do not all extend in the same direction, an improved clamping action is achieved. In addition, the displacement of the wall with respect to the floor will be counteracted.
In a more preferred embodiment, the bottom wall comprises one or more receiving chambers for fastening the base body to the contact profile. In order to fasten the base body to the contact profile, in particular against the bottom wall of the contact profile, the side of the base body where the contact profile is arranged, comprises at least one projecting fastening part which forms an integral part of the base body of the elastic fixing profile. The receiving chambers are preferably provided with a collar behind which a part of the fastening part of the clamping rubber (clamping profile) can hook.
The frame structure according to the present invention can preferably accommodate two wall panels, preferably glass panels, which are placed a distance apart.
In the context of the present invention, it should be understood that the term wall panel includes a glass panel, a metal panel, a wooden panel, composite panels, plaster panels, upholstered acoustic panels, plastic panels, concrete panels, etc.
In order to further explain the properties of the present invention and to indicate additional advantages and features thereof, there now follows a more detailed description of the frame structure comprising the profile assembly according to the invention. It will be clear that nothing in the following description may be interpreted as a limitation of the scope of protection for the present invention which is defined in the claims.
In this description, reference numerals are used to refer to the fastened drawing, in which:
Fig. 1: shows a diagrammatic representation of the frame structure with wall panels according to the invention in which the bottom profiled section, top profiled section and both lateral profiles are designed as an identical profile assembly;
Fig. 2: shows a cross section of the profile assembly according to a first preferred embodiment;
Fig. 3: shows a cross section of the profile assembly illustrated in Fig. 2 and provided with a securing profile and cover profile;
Fig. 4: shows a cross section of the profile assembly according to a second preferred embodiment in which the contact profile serves as an adjusting profile which makes the profile assembly height-adjustable;
Fig. 5: shows a cross section of the profile assembly illustrated in Fig. 4 and provided with a securing profile and cover profile; Fig. 6: shows a cross section of the profile assembly according to the second embodiment which is suitable for accommodating two spaced-apart wall panels and on which an adjusting means is shown;
Fig. 7: shows a diagrammatic representation of a wall system according to the invention composed of a ceiling structure and floor structure, a wall panel and two uprights in which a profile assembly according to the second embodiment is used;
Fig. 8: shows a section of the wall system along the line A- A illustrated in Fig. 7;
Fig. 9: shows a section of the wall system along the line B-B illustrated in Fig. 7;
Fig. 10: shows a number of possible embodiments (see Figs. 10.1 to 10.4) of a securing profile which is clamped in the fastening groove in order to secure a glass panel supported on the first leg;
Fig. 11: shows a cross section of an alternative embodiment of the first embodiment in which the contact profile and fixing profile are designed as a single profile-shaped contact element;
Fig. 12: shows an alternative embodiment of the profile assembly illustrated in Fig. 5 in which the internal space of the support profile is provided with two guide grooves which extend next to each other;
Fig. 13: explains the way in which the profile assembly is assembled;
Figs. 14 and 15: illustrate that it is possible to mount panels of different thicknesses on the same profile assembly and that these can also be placed at a certain distance from the support part;
Fig. 16: shows a cross section which demonstrates that an identical profile assembly is fittable both vertically and horizontally, thus resulting in an identical visible profile all around;
Fig. 17: illustrates a number of possible embodiments of support rubbers which may be selected on the basis of the thickness of the panel to be fitted.
The profile assembly (1) according to the present invention and as illustrated in the attached figures forms part of a demountable wall system which can be used to divide a space. Such a wall system, as inter alia illustrated in Figs. 7, 8 and 16, comprises at least a vertical wall panel (2), two uprights (22) which extend between a ceiling structure and floor structure, a top profiled section (23) which is fastened to the ceiling structure and a bottom profiled section (24) which is fastened to the floor structure. In the illustrated Fig. 7, the uprights (22) and the top profiled section (23) and bottom profiled section (24) are of identical design as a profile assembly (1) according to the invention, as described above.
The profile assembly (1) as used in the frame structure according to the invention comprises the following:
- a contact profile (3) with a bottom wall (4) which can be connected to a floor structure, ceiling structure or side structure and in which the contact profile (3) comprises two side walls (9) which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall (4);
- at least one securing profile (12) configured to secure a wall panel (2);
- at least one supporting device (10; 20) which is connected to a side wall (9) of the contact profile (3) and is provided with: a first leg (11) with a free end which extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile (3) and forms a support part for supporting a wall panel (2), a second leg (26) with a free end which extends parallel, or nearly parallel, to the first leg (11).
According to the invention, a fastening slot (13) is formed between the first (11) and second leg (26) in which the securing profile (12) is clampable by means of a clamping rubber (18), and the supporting device (10) furthermore comprises a support rubber (32) on which a secured wall panel (2) rests or presses.
The fitted wall panel (2) is preferably a glass panel, but may obviously also be a metal panel, a wooden panel, a composite panel, a plaster panel, an upholstered acoustic panel, a plastic panel, a concrete panel or a similar panel. In practice, the fitted wall panels (2) have a thickness from 10 mm to 13 mm.
The profile assembly (1) according to the present invention is preferably mounted in an internal space without using mechanical (permanent) fastening means in order to mount the profile assembly (1) on a suitable mounting structure. This will, on the one hand, considerably reduce the fitting time or demounting time and, on the other hand, prevent the respective mounting structure from becoming damaged. For a reliable and easy fitting, the profile assembly (1) comprises a contact profile (3) of aluminium or another suitable material as the outer profile, with a bottom wall (4) and two upright side walls (9).
The outer side of the respective bottom wall (4) is provided with a single-part elastic fixing profile (5) which comprises a base body (6) with at least two flexible arms (7a; 7b). As the attached figures show, the flexible arms (7a; 7b) are upright with respect to the base body (6) on the side of the base body (6) which is situated opposite the side of the base body (6) where the contact profile (3) is arranged. In use, the flexible arms (7a; 7b) will at least partly be compressed against a floor or ceiling and will thus prevent a displacement of the profile assembly (1). In case the profile assembly (1) serves as an upright (22), the respective arms (7a; 7b) will be compressed against the adjacent structure. This may be a brick wall, but this may also be an adjacent panel (2). This is the case, for example, when a corner is to be formed by means of the panels (2).
Due to the presence of the elastic fixing profile (5), it is possible to use the own weight of the wall panels (2) in order to keep the profile assembly (1) in its place. The flexible arms (7a; 7b) will prevent a lateral displacement. The fixing profile (5) is preferably made of an elastomer or a thermoplastic. Due to its composition, its positioning between the outer (contact) profile and the adjacent structure to which the profile assembly (1) is fitted, and the orientation of the flexible arms (7a; 7b), the fixing profile (5) will also contribute to improved acoustics. Due to the elasticity of the fixing profile, relatively small irregularities in the floor structure or ceiling structure can also be compensated for.
In the illustrated embodiments, the base body (6) of the fixing profile (5) extends beyond the bottom wall (4) of the contact profile (3). In an alternative embodiment, the base body (6) may also be less wide than the width of the contact profile (3). The flexible arms (7a; 7b) may extend in different directions, preferably in a direction which is directed away from the contact profile (3). In the illustrated embodiments, a number of said flexible arms (7a) are upright in a first direction and a number of said flexible arms (7b) are upright in a second direction which differs from the first direction. Due to the fact that not all the flexible arms (7a; 7b) extend in the same direction, an improved fastening is achieved. The different orientation of the arms (7a; 7b) also benefits the acoustics.
In order to fasten the fixing profile (5), in particular its base body (6), to the contact profile (3), more specifically to the bottom wall (4) of the contact profile (3), the respective bottom wall (4) comprises one, two or more receiving chambers (8) and the side of the base body (6) where the contact profile (3) is arranged comprises two projecting fastening parts (25) which are fitted a distance apart and form an integral part of the base body (6) of the elastic fixing profile (5). As shown in Figs. 2 and 3, the shape of the fastening parts (25) may thus correspond to the shape of the receiving chamber (8). In an alternative embodiment, the receiving chambers (8) as represented in Figs. 4 and 5 may be provided with a collar behind which a part of the fastening part (25) of the fixing profile (5) can hook. A part of the fastening part (25) may also be hollow. The fastening parts (25) as represented in Fig. 12 may also be T- shaped. In yet another embodiment, which is represented in Fig. 11, and which will be explained in more detail further on in this description, the contact profile may be designed as a single-part profile-shaped contact element (31). The respective contact element is made of plastic, more particularly of a rubber.
Depending on the situation (state) of the surface onto which the profile assembly (1) will be fitted (mounted), it is possible to opt for, for example, a first or second embodiment of the profile assembly (1) according to the invention. The first embodiment is illustrated in Figs. 2 and 3, and is used in spaces with a relatively even surface on which or to which the profile assembly (1) will be fitted.
The second embodiment of the profile assembly (1) provides a height adjustment with which irregularities may be compensated for. By means of such a profile assembly (1), it is also possible to create an even shadow gap. Moreover, panels (2) fitted in line can be aligned perfectly with respect to each other without too much effort.
Both the first and second embodiment of the profile assembly (1) are suitable for accommodating at least one wall panel (2). However, in the remainder of this description, we will limit ourselves to the embodiments in which the profile assembly (1) is designed to accommodate two wall panels (2) which are spaced apart and have been fitted parallel to each other in order to produce a double-walled structure. The resulting intermediate space between the two wall panels (2) may be filled with air, but may, if necessary, be filled with a suitable insulating material.
In the first embodiment of the profile assembly (1) according to the invention, the contact profile (3) comprises two side walls (9) which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall (4). Both side walls (9) are provided with a supporting device (10) with a first leg (11) with a free end and which forms a support part for supporting a wall panel (2). This support part (11) extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall (9) of the contact profile (3). The supporting body (11) and the contact profile (3) together form a single profile.
A wall panel (2) can be fitted on the first leg (11) (support part) in a frontal way. The fitting of a wall panel (2) may be effected directly, but often an intermediate piece or calibration element (small cube) (not shown) is placed between the first leg and the underside of the wall panel (2) in order to compensate for any differences in height. Once fitted, the wall panel (2) may be secured. This is achieved by means of a securing profile (12) which is suitable for the purpose and which is preferably made of aluminium. The securing profile (12) is of an L-shaped design and comprises a front wall (15) and a fastening leg (16) which extends perpendicularly to the front wall (15).
The securing profile (12) is fastened in the fastening slot (13) which is formed between the first (11) and second leg (26). The respective fastening slot (13) extends under the first leg (11). The fastening slot (13) has an access opening which is delimited by the free end of the first leg (11) and a collar (27) which is provided at the free end of the second leg (26) which extends at a distance from first leg (11) and parallel thereto. The securing profile (12) is at least partly accommodable in the fastening slot (13). The securing profile (12) is fastenable in the fastening slot (13) by means of a clamping rubber (18) and optionally also a click-fit connection.
In order to prevent the securing profile (12) from coming loose again, the internal space of the fastening slot (13), in a preferred embodiment, comprises a retaining element (14) which prevents, in the mounted position, the securing profile (12) from coming loose again. The click-fit connection is achieved by the fact that, in the mounted position, the end of the fastening leg (16) of the securing profile (12) engages behind the retaining element (14). The fastening leg (16) also comprises a T- shaped recess (17) which is suitable for accommodating the clamping rubber (18), which is configured to clamp the securing profile (12) in the fastening slot (13).
The profile assembly (1) furthermore comprises a cover profile (19) which is connectable to the contact profile (3). Due to the cover profile (19) being fitted, the contact profile will no longer be visible. This has the advantage that the contact profile can be fitted relatively early in the construction process, for example even before the client has decided on the colour of the construction. As the contact profile is produced in a neutral colour, it can be used in different projects. The cover profile (19) has a visible wall section which may be coloured according to the wishes of the user. This has the advantage that the client is free to choose his desired colour up to a relatively advanced stage of the building process.
The cover profile (19) is also fastenable to the contact profile (3) by means of a click-fit connection. For the connection, the cover profile (19) comprises two mounting legs (28) which extend perpendicularly to the wall section and whose ends, in the mounted position, engage behind a respective detaining edge (29). The respective detaining edges (29) are provided in the internal space of the contact profile (3), in particular on the upright side walls (9) of the contact profile (3).
In the second embodiment of the profile assembly (1) according to the invention which is, inter alia, illustrated in the attached Figs. 4 to 6, the contact profile (3) with its two side walls (9) which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall (4) serves as an adjusting profile. The respective profile assembly (1) comprises a supporting device (20) which is fittable to the side walls (9) and movable with respect to the contact profile (3). The supporting device (20) which is made of aluminium, just like the contact profile (3), is movable over the side walls (9) of the contact profile (3) by means of an adjusting means (21). As is shown in Fig. 6, the adjusting means (21) may be designed as a single part, e.g. in the form of an adjusting screw. However, it may also be designed to be in two parts, on the one hand an element which is provided with a screw thread, such as e.g. a threaded bush or bolt, and, on the other hand an element which is movable across the screw thread by rotation, e.g. a nut or butterfly-shaped element. By means of the adjusting means, the wall panels (2) can be positioned higher or lower.
The supporting device (20) comprises a bottom wall and two upright side walls. Both side walls are provided with a first leg (11) with a free end which forms a support part and is provided in order to support a wall panel (20). This first leg (11) extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile (3). The supporting device (20) is a single-part profile which is movably fastened to the contact profile (3). As the supporting device (20) is movable with respect to the contact profile (3), irregularities, in particular in the floor surface onto which the profile assembly (1) is placed, may be compensated for. It is also possible to accurately align juxtaposed panels with respect to each other and the height of the shadow gap is adjustable.
As is shown in Figs. 11 and 12, the internal space of the support profile (20) may be provided with one or more guide grooves (30) in which certain elements or components may be mounted or fitted. In the case of the narrower profiles, it is possible, for example, to choose to provide only one guide groove (30). By contrast, two guide grooves (30) which are situated parallel with respect to each other may be provided in the wider profiles (see inter alia Figs. 11 and 12). Obviously, the wider profiles may also be provided with only one guide groove (30). The dimensions of the guide groove may be adjusted. Such guide grooves may, for example, be provided with a standard aligning angle profile. In this way, it is possible to accurately place panels at an angle.
In an alternative embodiment, illustrated in Fig. 11, the contact profile and fixing profile are designed as a single profile-shaped contact element (31) comprising a base body with the flexible arms on the one side, and two upright side walls for the connection to the support profile (20) on the opposite side. The connection between the contact element (31) and the support profile (20) is brought about by clamping. In order to produce an additional clamping effect, the side walls, preferably the outer sides thereof, may optionally be provided with a protuberance. Just as with the first embodiment, the wall panels (2) may be fitted to the first leg (11) of the supporting device (20) in a frontal way. Just as has been described above, a wall panel (2) may be fitted directly onto the first leg (11), but often, an intermediate piece (not shown) or calibration element (small cube) is placed between the first leg (11) and the underside of the wall panel (2) in order to compensate for any differences in height. Once fitted, the wall panel (2) can be secured, as is illustrated in Figs. 14 and 15. This is effected by means of the securing profile (12) described above which is preferably made of aluminium. The securing profile (12) is of an L-shaped design and comprises a front wall and a fastening leg which extends perpendicularly to the front wall.
The securing profile (12) is fastened in the fastening slot (13) which is formed between the first (11) and second leg (26). The respective fastening slot (13) extends under the first leg (11). The fastening slot (13) has an access opening which is delimited by the free end of the first leg (11) and a collar (27) which is provided on the free end of the second leg (26) which extends at a distance from first leg (11) and parallel thereto. The securing profile (12) is at least partly accommodable in the fastening slot (13). The securing profile (12) is fastenable in the fastening slot (13) by means of a clamping rubber (18) and optionally also a click-fit connection.
In order to prevent the securing profile (12) from becoming loose again, the internal space of the fastening slot (13), in a preferred embodiment, comprises a retaining element (14) which, in the mounted position, prevents the securing profile (12) from coming loose again. The click-fit connection is produced by the end of the fastening leg (16) of the securing profile (12), in the mounted position, engaging behind the retaining element (14). The fastening leg (16) also comprises a T-shaped recess suitable for accommodating the clamping rubber (18), which is configured to clamp the securing profile (12) in the fastening slot (13).
The profile assembly (12) furthermore comprises a cover profile which is connectable to the support profile. The cover profile is identical to that of the first embodiment and has a visible wall section which can be coloured in accordance with the wishes of the user. When the cover profile (19) is mounted, the contact profile and support profile will no longer be visible. The advantage thereof is that the contact profile and support profile can be fitted relatively early on in the construction process, e.g. even before the client has decided on the colour of the construction. As both the contact profile and the support profile are produced in a neutral colour, they can be used in different projects.
The cover profile (19) is also fastenable to the support profile (20) by means of a click-fit connection. For the connection, the cover profile (19) comprises two mounting legs (28) which extend perpendicularly to the wall section and whose ends, in the mounted position, engage behind a respective detaining edge (29). The respective detaining edges (29) are provided in the internal space of the support profile (3), in particular on the upright legs of the support profile (3).
In both embodiments, the securing profile (12) as shown in Fig. 10 may differ with regard to design or finish. The securing profile (12) may furthermore be provided with additional functionalities, such as e.g. a shock-absorbing edge, lighting, power supply, etc. The securing profile (12) can also be fitted on a contact profile (3) or supporting device (10; 20) of different widths and in this way, it is perfectly exchangeable with other systems, as a result of which it is possible to produce a profile assembly (1) with a greatly reduced number of different profiles.
By means of the frame structure according to the invention, wall panels with a thickness of 10 mm to 13 mm can be fitted in such a manner that the juxtaposed panels are in the same plane, even if the thickness of the juxtaposed panels deviates. This is illustrated, inter alia, in Figs. 14 and 15. Variations in thickness may be compensated for by adjusting the form and dimensions of the support rubber (32), which is releasably fastened in the supporting device and which, in use, presses against a wall panel fitted on the first leg (11). Fig. 17 shows a number of possible embodiments of a support rubber (32) which may be used with a wall panel (2) of a specific thickness.

Claims

1. Modular frame structure suitable for dividing a space, comprising a number of wall panels (2), a top profiled section (23) which is fastenable to a ceiling structure, a bottom profiled section (24) which is fastenable to a floor structure, and a number of lateral profiles (22) which are fastenable to a side structure and which are configured to extend between a ceiling structure and floor structure, wherein at least the top profiled section (23), bottom profiled section (24) or at least one of the lateral profiles (22) consists of a profile assembly (1) to which at least one wall panel (2) is fastenable, characterized in that the top profiled section (23), bottom profiled section (24) and said lateral profiles (22) are configured as an identical profile assembly (1) comprising:
- a contact profile (3) with a bottom wall (4) which can be connected to a floor structure, ceiling structure or side structure and wherein the contact profile (3) comprises two side walls (9) which extend perpendicularly to the bottom wall
(4);
- at least one securing profile (12) configured to secure a wall panel (2);
- at least one supporting device (10; 20) which is connected to a side wall (9) of the contact profile (3) and which is provided with: a first leg (11) with a free end which extends along a direction which runs perpendicularly to the side wall of the contact profile (3) and forms a support part for supporting a wall panel (2), a second leg (26) with a free end which extends parallel, or nearly parallel, to the first leg (11), wherein a fastening slot (13) is formed between the first (11) and second (26) leg into which the securing profile (12) is clampable by means of a clamping rubber (18), wherein the supporting device
(10) furthermore comprises a support rubber (32) against which a secured wall panel (2) rests or presses.
2. Frame structure according to Claim 1, characterized in that the securing profile (12) is fastenable in the fastening slot (13) by means of a click-fit connection in order to secure a wall panel (2) fitted to the support part.
3. Frame structure according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fastening slot (13) comprises a retaining element (14) which, in the mounted position, prevents the securing profile (12) from coming loose again.
4. Frame structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the securing profile (12) comprises a front wall (15) and a fastening leg (16) which extends perpendicularly to the front wall (15) and whose end, in the mounted position, engages behind the retaining element (14) in order to bring about the click-fit connection.
5. Frame structure according to Claim 4, characterized in that the fastening leg (16) comprises a T-shaped recess (17) suitable for accommodating the clamping rubber (18) which is configured to clamp the securing profile (12) in the fastening slot (13).
6. Frame structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the profile assembly (1) comprises a cover profile (19) which is connectable to the contact profile (3).
7. Frame structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that said supporting device (10) is fixedly connected to a side wall (9) of the contact profile (3).
8. Frame structure according to one of Claims 1 to 6, characterized in that said supporting device (10) is a supporting device (20) which is fittable to the side walls (9) and movable with respect to the contact profile (3).
9. Frame structure according to Claim 8, characterized in that the profile assembly comprises an adjusting means (21) which is configured to move the supporting device (20) with respect to the contact profile (3).
10. Frame structure according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the bottom wall (4) of the contact profile (3) is provided with a single-part elastic fixing profile (5) which comprises a base body (6) with at least two flexible arms (7a; 7b), wherein the flexible arms (7) are upright with respect to the base body (6) on a side of the base body (6) which is situated opposite the side where the contact profile (3) is arranged and which, in use, will be compressed against a floor or ceiling and thus prevent a displacement of the profile assembly (1).
11. Frame structure according to Claim 10, characterized in that the bottom wall (4) comprises one or more receiving chambers (8) for fastening the base body (6) to the contact profile (3).
EP21755056.5A 2020-07-17 2021-07-16 Modular frame structure for a demountable wall system with a novel profile assembly Withdrawn EP4182511A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
BE20205541A BE1028487B1 (en) 2020-07-17 2020-07-17 PROFILE ASSEMBLY FOR A DISASSEMBLE WALL SYSTEM
PCT/IB2021/056442 WO2022013831A1 (en) 2020-07-17 2021-07-16 Modular frame structure for a demountable wall system with a novel profile assembly

Publications (1)

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EP4182511A1 true EP4182511A1 (en) 2023-05-24

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EP21755056.5A Withdrawn EP4182511A1 (en) 2020-07-17 2021-07-16 Modular frame structure for a demountable wall system with a novel profile assembly

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BE (1) BE1028487B1 (en)
WO (1) WO2022013831A1 (en)

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CN115234045B (en) * 2022-08-18 2023-08-04 合肥荣事达电子电器集团有限公司 Assembled kitchen system and assembling method thereof

Family Cites Families (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2040715A5 (en) * 1969-04-10 1971-01-22 Aluminium Service Euroma
IT1062729B (en) * 1976-06-25 1984-11-10 Fonderia Elettrica Alluminio PANELS FOR ANTI-ACOUSTIC AND FIRE-RESISTANT INTERIOR WALLS
US5603192A (en) * 1995-04-03 1997-02-18 Advanced Equipment Corporation Operable wall panel mounting apparatus
ITTO20090049A1 (en) * 2009-01-27 2010-07-28 Faram S P A MODULAR DIVISION WALL FOR INTERIOR PARTITION
GB2520925A (en) * 2013-11-08 2015-06-10 Optima Contracting Ltd Panels for partitioning systems, partitioning systems, and methods of installing panels in partitioning systems
ITMI20131961A1 (en) * 2013-11-25 2015-05-26 Tecno Spa STRUCTURE OF MODULAR FRAME
CA3035933A1 (en) * 2016-09-15 2018-03-22 Silvio DANESI System for the partition of spaces

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BE1028487A1 (en) 2022-02-08
WO2022013831A1 (en) 2022-01-20

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