WO2008144537A1 - Cloison perforée légère pouvant être affaissée - Google Patents

Cloison perforée légère pouvant être affaissée Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2008144537A1
WO2008144537A1 PCT/US2008/063934 US2008063934W WO2008144537A1 WO 2008144537 A1 WO2008144537 A1 WO 2008144537A1 US 2008063934 W US2008063934 W US 2008063934W WO 2008144537 A1 WO2008144537 A1 WO 2008144537A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
partition
collapsible
horizontal
elongate
recited
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2008/063934
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
Kay Ruggles
Kirby V. Rea
Original Assignee
3Form, Inc.
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 3Form, Inc. filed Critical 3Form, Inc.
Priority to EP08755733.6A priority Critical patent/EP2147180B1/fr
Publication of WO2008144537A1 publication Critical patent/WO2008144537A1/fr
Priority to US12/619,203 priority patent/US8256488B2/en

Links

Classifications

    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
    • E06B9/02—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary
    • E06B9/06—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
    • E06B9/24—Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshine; Similar screens for privacy or appearance; Slat blinds
    • E06B9/26—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds
    • E06B9/262—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with flexibly-interconnected horizontal or vertical strips; Concertina blinds, i.e. upwardly folding flexible screens
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
    • E06B9/24—Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshine; Similar screens for privacy or appearance; Slat blinds
    • E06B9/26—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds
    • E06B9/262—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds with flexibly-interconnected horizontal or vertical strips; Concertina blinds, i.e. upwardly folding flexible screens
    • E06B2009/2627—Cellular screens, e.g. box or honeycomb-like
    • E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
    • E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
    • E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
    • E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
    • E06B9/24—Screens or other constructions affording protection against light, especially against sunshine; Similar screens for privacy or appearance; Slat blinds
    • E06B9/26—Lamellar or like blinds, e.g. venetian blinds
    • E06B9/266—Devices or accessories for making or mounting lamellar blinds or parts thereof

Definitions

  • Implementations of the present invention relate generally to systems, methods, and apparatus for partitioning an interior space.
  • Conventional room partitions range from permanent to temporary, and include any number of materials for facilitating the same.
  • permanent room partitions such as a wall
  • Temporary partitions range from movable or modular walls and panels, and, in some cases, flexible types of dividers that are temporarily or semi-permanently affixed to a wall, ceiling, or floor structure.
  • some flexible dividers include curtains, as well as hanging, ornamental items such as beads, or the like.
  • Additional types of flexible dividers include sliding or accordion-style partitions that can moved and fixed into one position, and subsequently returned and fixed in an original position.
  • collapsible window blinds can be made of any type of material resin materials such as MYLAR, or other types of plastics.
  • the material for these types of collapsible window blinds tends to be chosen primarily for light blocking and insulating effects.
  • the material for these types of collapsible window blinds tends to be chosen primarily for light blocking and insulating effects.
  • collapsible window blinds often include a honeycomb-like structure (as viewed from the side, cross-section), such as flexible diamond shapes that are joined at the bottoms and tops by another diamond in a continuing chain. The materials and shape used in this type of collapsible window blind tends to provide a double insulating layer for trapping air as well as light.
  • Implementations of the present invention solve one or more problems in the art with systems and apparatus that provide a semi-private partition, which has a wide range of decorative and functional capabilities.
  • a collapsible structure e.g., honeycomb-style, or the like
  • a manufacturer can use one or more cutout apparatus to form one or more different patterns in the collapsible structure. When expanded, the cut-out shapes (formed via the cutout apparatus) provide an aesthetically pleasing design that can be used not only as a semi-private partition or divider, but also one that is easy to use, flexible, semi-structural, and light weight.
  • a collapsible, semi-private partition or covering configured to partition one or more spaces while diffusing light and sound therein can include a collapsible structure having a plurality of horizontal pleats that each splits a plurality of horizontal rows into opposing upper and lower portions thereof.
  • the collapsible material expands in width when collapsed along the plurality of horizontal pleats.
  • the collapsible partition also includes a plurality of fixed perforations formed in each of the horizontal pleats. Each perforation comprises a shape having a first half that spans into the upper portion of the horizontal row, and a second half that spans into the lower portion of the horizontal row.
  • the collapsible partition includes at least one mounting plate mounted to one of the plurality of horizontal rows, the at least one mounting plate being configured to secure the collapsible partition to a support structure.
  • a method of manufacturing a collapsible, semi-private partition that partitions one or more spaces while diffusing light and sound therein can involve bonding a plurality of elongate cells along a corresponding plurality of horizontal seams.
  • the bonded elongate cells form a collapsible structure that expands to at least about 8 feet.
  • the method can also involve collapsing the collapsible structure along the plurality of horizontal seams and pleats so that each elongate cell from top to bottom in the collapsible structure overlaps with a vertically adjacent elongate cell.
  • the method can involve removing material from opposing sides of each elongate cell in the collapsed, collapsible partition by applying one or more cutout apparatus on an uppermost elongate cell.
  • Application of each of the one or more cutout apparatus forms a uniform column in the collapsible partition that corresponds to a shape of the corresponding cutout apparatus.
  • a system for reversibly partitioning the one or more spaces with one or more collapsible partitions configured to diffuse light and sound therein can include opposing first and second support structures.
  • the system can also include a collapsible partition that is anchored to the first support structure, and that is releasably anchored to the second support structure.
  • the collapsible partition includes a plurality of perforations fixedly formed therein, a plurality of adjacent horizontal rows each having a horizontal pleat formed therein. Furthermore, each of the plurality of perforations spans opposing sides of one of the horizontal pleats.
  • Figure IA illustrates a side view of a single-cell partition in accordance with an implementation of the present invention
  • Figure IB illustrates a side perspective view of the single-cell partition shown in Figure IA when in a collapsed state, and prior to being cut;
  • Figure 1C illustrates a plan view of a collapsed partition showing potential cutout lines using the cutout apparatus shown in Figure IB;
  • Figure ID illustrates a top view of one or more elongate cells in a partition after one or more cutout apparatus have been applied
  • Figure IE illustrates the collapsed, cutout elongate cells of Figure ID when the manufacturer has affixed one or more mounting plates to a top and bottom portion thereof;
  • Figure IF illustrates a side perspective view of the partition shown in Figure IE when the elongate cells are in a collapsed state
  • Figure I G illustrates a side perspective view of the partition shown in Figures
  • Figure 2 A illustrates a front, facing view of the partition shown in Figures IE- IG when in a fully expanded state
  • Figure 2B illustrates another side perspective view of a plurality of elongate cells in a single-cell partition in accordance with an implementation of the present invention
  • Figure 2C illustrates a side perspective, cross-sectional view of an alternate design of a partition in which a manufacturer has cut one or more squared lines into a unitary material, in accordance with an implementation of the present invention
  • Figure 3A illustrates a side perspective, cross-sectional view still another design of a partition using a triple cell configuration in accordance with an implementation of the present invention.
  • Figure 3B illustrates some of the flexibility properties of a partition in accordance with an implementation of the present invention, such as the partition shown in Figure 3A.
  • the present invention extends to systems and apparatus that provide a semi- private partition, which has a wide range of decorative and functional capabilities.
  • a collapsible structure e.g., honeycomb- style, or the like
  • a manufacturer can use one or more cutout apparatus to form one or more different patterns in the collapsible structure. When expanded, the cut-out shapes (formed via the cutout apparatus) provide an aesthetically pleasing design that can be used not only as a semi-private partition or divider, but also one that is easy to use, flexible, semi-structural, and light weight.
  • a partition in accordance with an implementation of the present invention can be manufactured for a wide variety of aesthetic and functional concerns, and can be carried, moved, and installed in a wide variety of locations.
  • the partitions described herein can be manufactured for use in any number of ceiling or wall applications, whether in indoor or outdoor environments, including any residential, commercial, or industrial environments.
  • the partitions described herein can be configured primarily for aesthetic/decorative use, such as to apply a particular look, and/or texture to a wall, column, or lighting element/arrangement in an interior or exterior space, to project patterns, or even to act more functionally as a light diffuser (e.g., a three-dimensional textile used as a lamp shade).
  • the partitions described herein can also be manufactured for virtually any length or width as appropriate for a given room partition, from several inches tall or wide to several feet in height or width. In one implementation, for example, the partitions described herein can be manufactured or otherwise joined to heights and/or widths from about as high or wide as 15 feet, 30 feet, or even 50 feet.
  • partitions described herein can be made with any color, style, or thickness, and can be made with single or multiple layering, or the like for added aesthetic and functional concerns. Still further, the partitions herein can be formed with virtually any cutout shape or dimension to impart both a function and aesthetic to the partition.
  • Figure IA illustrates a side view of a collapsible partition 100 in accordance with an implementation of the present invention.
  • a collapsible partition 100 can comprise a plurality of elongate cells 110 (whether single or multiple-cell configurations) that are joined together at various seams 103.
  • These elongate cells 110 generally comprise hollow cell materials, which can be tubular, diamond, square, or virtually any other shape at the cross-section.
  • Figure IA illustrates that the cells in the partition of Figure IA are approximately ovular or circular in the expanded state.
  • the collapsible structure 100 alternatively comprises a unitary material that is folded along a series of horizontal seams, thereby forming a zig-zag style structure (e.g., Figure 2C) from the side or top view, as appropriate. Accordingly, one will appreciate that implementations of the present invention regarding cutting out portions of the collapsible partition apply equally to cell-type (or cell-in-cell) and unitary/zig-zag- type materials.
  • the material used in the collapsible partition 100 can comprise virtually any sufficiently flexible or collapsible material, such as paper (or paper-style materials), non-woven fabric, film materials, or even woven fabric.
  • materials with which the partition can be made include resin materials such as MYLAR, flexible plastics, or other naturally occurring or synthetic materials such as polyester fiber and recycled polyester fiber, or the like.
  • the fabric material can be chosen to have a quality of sheer, semi-sheer, opaque, or even semi- opaque (e.g., prior to creating perforations 120) appearance.
  • the fabric material can also be chosen based on degree of translucence, and ability to transmit or block light between spaces in a partition.
  • the chosen fabric or material can be combined with other materials in a particular configuration.
  • the elongate cells can also be inserted within each other (i.e., cell-in-cell configuration), and even nested and/or bonded against each other to form any number of functional or aesthetic cross- sections, which include a set of single-cells, cells-within-cells, dual-cells, triple-cells, and so on.
  • the manufacturer can select the elongate cells (or tubes) based on any number of factors, including size and depth between seams 103 and pleats 105 along which the collapsible structure 100 will collapse, as well as the width and depth of the given cell.
  • the manufacturer can select the number of elongate cells that are stacked vertically in order to result in a particular expanded size of a partition.
  • the manufacturer determines an appropriate number of elongate cells to create a partition that is at least 8 feet tall when expanded, and/or otherwise configured to span a ceiling-to-floor space.
  • the manufacturer can create a much longer or wider sheet or partition by adjoining additional elongate cells, or even adjoining partitions/sheets together.
  • the manufacturer cuts partitions or sheets (e.g., elongate cell or unitary material structure) to multiple 10 foot lengths.
  • the manufacturer then prepares a glue line and seams two or more partitions or sheets together so as to appear as one piece.
  • the manufacturer can make a partition, sheet, or other form of treatment that is anywhere from 15 feet long, to 30 feet long, or even as long as 50 feet long or longer.
  • Such a partition can be used to simply partition a space, or even to treat an existing wall, floor, or ceiling structure.
  • the sheet/partition (e.g., 100/1 OOa/100b) can also be used to adorn another structure, rather than just a conventional ceiling, wall or floor.
  • each elongate cell 100 is generally configured to collapse at an approximate midpoint, thereby forming opposing pleats 105 on each cell 110.
  • each pleat can be thought to provide a mid point for an "upper portion” and a "lower portion” for each elongate cell.
  • one configuration of pleats 105 that are about 3/8" deep result from elongate cells 110 that are about 3/4" wide when collapsed.
  • the pleats 105 are configured to be anywhere from about 3/8" deep to about 1" deep (i.e., spaced apart from each other) or greater. This choice in pleat 105 depth applies not only to elongate tubes, but also to unitary materials that are simply folded along a zig-zag pattern (e.g., Figure 2B).
  • Figure IB illustrates a side perspective view of the collapsible structure 100 when in a collapsed state.
  • the manufacturer can then bond (e.g., glue, affix, secure, heat seal, tape, or apply vibration-style sonic bonding, etc.) the elongate cells together in a particular cross- sectional alignment with one or more next or adjacent elongate cells.
  • the affixed or bonded elongate cells thus form a structure with a plurality of uniform, horizontal seams 103 at the affixed/bonded points.
  • the hollow elongate cells/tubes of the collapsible partition 100 are of such material, and are specifically positioned together, so that the entire structure 100 can be easily expanded and collapsed onto itself along the horizontal seams 103 and pleats 105 from top to bottom along virtually the same vertical axes (e.g., columns 115, Figure 2A), and for each horizontal length of elongate cell.
  • FIG. 1A (as well as 1C, ID, etc.) also shows that partition 100 can comprise a plurality of mounting plates 130 positioned at extreme edges of partition 100.
  • mounting plates 130 can be made from virtually any material, although typically from more rigid materials such as relatively rigid, inflexible plastics, metals, or composites thereof.
  • each plate 130 is configured in size and shape to mount (permanently, semi-permanently, or temporarily) the partition 100 to a ceiling (e.g., vertical/drop-down layouts), wall (e.g., in horizontal/side-to-side layouts), floor, or other form of support structure.
  • the opposing plate 130 will not be mounted to two opposing surfaces, as such, but rather will be used to either weigh down the collapsible structure (e.g., when stretched from a ceiling), or only temporarily mount or hold the partition at an opposing end.
  • the partition is configured to be mounted or folded out to two vertically-standing support structures.
  • a manufacturer can use one or more cutout apparatus 140.
  • the cutout apparatus 140 comprises any one or more of a die-cut apparatus, saw, hole saw, laser cut apparatus, or water jet apparatus sufficient for cutting through the chosen material of the collapsible structure 100.
  • the manufacturer uses the cutout apparatus 140 to impart a series of particular shapes (e.g., perforations 120, Figure 2A) in the collapsible structure, and ultimately in the partition 100.
  • Figure IB illustrates an implementation in which the manufacturer chooses the cutout apparatus 140 as an open-sided blade tool (e.g., 140, Figure IB) that is pressed against the material with a pneumatic press.
  • the cutout apparatus 140 can comprise a closed tool such as a coring drill bit.
  • Figure IB illustrates an implementation in which the manufacturer collapses the collapsible structure 100 so that each of the elongate cells 110 overlaps or collapses against a next adjacent elongate cell, and then positions half-circle cutout apparatus 140 at or about the seams 105 thereof (e.g., in a collapsed state).
  • the manufacturer can adjust and select the cutout apparatus 140 (or select alternate forms of the apparatus) in terms of size, shape, depth, width, or other form of design for both aesthetic as well as functional ends.
  • At least some of the considerations that can drive these optimizations include the amount of light and/or sound that a designer will want to allow transmitted between partitioned spaces.
  • optimizations can relate not only to the size, depth, and arrangement of each perforation, but also the shape and dispersion of a plurality of different perforations.
  • the manufacturer might configure the cutout apparatus 140 so that it imparts any one or more of circular, diamond, heart, flower, square, oval, star, hexagonal, octagonal shapes, or the like in partition 100.
  • the manufacturer might alternate different shapes along a horizontal length of the collapsible partition. For example, the manufacturer might choose to create a column of star shapes, then a column of circle shapes, following with another column of star shapes and so on.
  • the manufacturer might randomly disperse cutout apparatus shapes 140, as well as their positioning relative to center line 133, along the collapsed, collapsible partition in order to achieve any number of desired ends.
  • the manufacturer might choose a particular size of the cutout shape in order to allow a certain amount of light through the partition, or to insulate or release a select amount of air (hot or cold), sound, or the like through partition 100.
  • the manufacturer may position the cutout apparatus relatively near the center 133 (on opposing sides of center 133) of the collapsed, collapsible structure 100 to create a relatively large perforation 120.
  • the manufacturer can position the cutout apparatus 140 relatively near the peripheral edge of pleat 105, and thus farther from the center line 133 of the collapsed, collapsible structure 100.
  • the manufacturer can even choose only to cutout one side of the collapsed structure. In such a case, the manufacturer may create a perforation that does not necessarily extend all the way through the given elongate cells, but nevertheless thins out the material for additional aesthetic or functional effects.
  • At least one implementation involves the manufacturer selecting the position of the cutout apparatus 140 relative to the collapsed, collapsible structure 100 to create hollow perforations 120 that are at least 1/4" in any or all dimensions.
  • the manufacturer selects and positions the cutout apparatus 140 to create hollow perforations 120 that are at least 1.25" in diameter within a 1.5 inch" wide collapsible structure 100.
  • a manufacturer gauges how much material is removed as a percentage of the structure weight.
  • the manufacturer can remove from about 10-80% (with about 90-10% remaining) of a collapsible partition, preferably from about 25-60% of material (with about 75-40% remaining).
  • the manufacturer selects the material, cutout, cutout depth, and cutout shape as a function of the amount of light, sound, or air intended to ultimately pass through the expanded collapsible structure 100, and ultimately the level of privacy (or lack thereof). For example, the manufacturer can determine an amount of light or sound that should be transmitted between spaces to be partitioned, and then optimize the shape, arrangement, and size of each cutout apparatus in order to achieve a perforation that results in passage of the determined amount of light or sound.
  • the manufacturer upon selecting the size, shape, dimension, and positioning of the materials and cutout apparatus, the manufacturer prepares a "cutout assembly" (i.e., including the cutout apparatus positioned over the collapsible structure in collapsed form). The manufacturer then applies the cutout apparatus 140 on the collapsible partition. In at least one implementation, the manufacturer applies the cutout apparatus 140 through the collapsible structure 100 on both sides of the collapsed, collapsible structure through the entire vertical length, and along as much of the horizontal length of the collapsible structure as desired.
  • Figure 1C illustrates a plan view of the intended application/pattern of the cutouts shown in Figure IB.
  • the intended pattern is typically a partial form of the intended resulting shape.
  • the intended pattern e.g., Figure 1C
  • the intended pattern in the collapsed form of the material will be half-circle, as illustrated.
  • the intended pattern in the collapsed form of the material will have the appearance of a half-star.
  • the removed material will thus result in a perforation 120 that spans virtually equal, opposing spaces about a pleat 105 in a given elongate cell.
  • Figure ID shows that the manufacturer has thus applied the cutout apparatus 140, and subsequently removed the cutout material.
  • Figure IE illustrates a plan view of the collapsed, collapsible structure 100 shown in Figure ID after the manufacturer has applied or affixed mounting plates 130.
  • Figure IF illustrates a side perspective view of the collapsed, collapsible structure 100 shown in Figure IE.
  • Figure IG illustrates the partition of Figure IF when partly expanded or folded out.
  • the manufacturer lays out a collapsible partition in expanded form, and uses one or more of a laser cutout apparatus or a water jet cutout apparatus to cut any number of different or alternative shapes in the expanded, collapsible structure 100.
  • Figures 2A through 3B illustrate various features of a finished, exemplary collapsible partition 100 when in an expanded (or at least partially expanded) form.
  • partition 100 comprises a plurality of hollow perforations 120 (hollow all the way through from one side to the next) formed in a row/column alignment.
  • Figure 2A shows that at least one implementation of a collapsible partition 100 can comprise a series of columns 115 corresponding to the shape of the cutout apparatus 1401. That is, each cutout apparatus 140 cuts through and creates each entire column 115 in a set of adjoined elongate cells 110.
  • each elongate cell 110 further defines a row in the collapsible partition 100.
  • Figure 2A shows that the perforations 120 allow at least some light to pass through partition 100 generally, with all light being able to pass through any given hollow perforation 120.
  • peering directly through any given perforation 120 provides a clear line of sight to at least a portion of the person standing on the other side.
  • the resultant partition 100 is at least "semi-private.”
  • Figure 2B shows a side perspective view of the collapsible partition 100 shown in Figure 2 A. In particular, Figure 2B shows the cross-section of a single cell partition 100 in expanded form.
  • Figure 2C shows a facing view of another, differently shaped collapsible partition 100a in accordance with an implementation of the present invention.
  • Figure 2C illustrates a partition 100a that has been created using a different shape (hexagonal-shaped) of cutouts.
  • Figure 2C also illustrates that the collapsible partition in this particular case can comprise a unitary material, rather than on a set of bonded cells, as with partition 100.
  • the manufacturer chooses a unitary material since it may allow more light or sound to pass through than the otherwise described cell structures. That is, cell structures generally mean that light or sound can be blocked by effectively two different walls in a given elongate cell.
  • a unitary material however, only provides a single wall barrier for light and sound (unless combined with another unitary material for a double wall construction).
  • Figure 2C also shows hollow perforations 120a that have been formed along square/rectangular-style patterns in the corresponding collapsible structure.
  • the manufacturer has chosen not only the material (single layer, unitary material), the shape (wide hexagons), the style, and the general dimension of the cutout patterns to allow more light (or even air, sound, etc.) through the partition 100a compared with a cell- structure partition.
  • Figure 3 A illustrates a side-perspective view of yet another partition 100b, which includes a plurality of elongate cells/rows 110 that are bonded along alternating seams and pleats (similarly as described for partition 100).
  • the cells are bonded along seams that are somewhat staggered in formation (e.g., in honeycomb formation).
  • Figure 3B illustrates another side, cross-sectional view of the partition of Figure 3 A, albeit when twisted.
  • Figure 3B illustrates at least one advantage of one or more of the designs, such as the triple cell partition 100, which is that the partition can be not only light weight and collapsible, but also flexible.
  • the flexibility provided by these materials provides yet another consideration for a designer that is optimizing a partition of opposing spaces not only in terms of functional light/sound dispersion goals, but also various aesthetic ends.
  • Figures 1A-3B and the corresponding text illustrate or describe a light-weight, collapsible structure with three-dimensional features, or otherwise a three-dimensional textile structure.
  • the textile structure can be easily manufactured, assembled, joined together, and stored/reused as desired in a particular location, such as for use as a wall, or ceiling structure/partition, or other form of space divider or adornment.
  • the three-dimensional partition/structure can be used to generally provide a semi-private barrier or divider, which can allow light, air, or sound on a differential basis depending on the size, dimension, or otherwise shape of the cutout apparatus, as well as the color, translucency, and material used to create the initial collapsible structure.
  • the three-dimensional partition/structure can also or alternatively be used to provide a space with an artistic component, which adds to various functional and aesthetic features in a given space.
  • implementations of the present invention can be used in any home or office environment where an at least temporary, aesthetically pleasing, three-dimensional textile structure is desired.
  • implementations of the present invention can be configured for a wide range of lengths, widths, and even vertical or horizontal layout configurations.
  • the depth and size of collapsible materials and corresponding cutouts can be configured to create potentially as high as anywhere from 12-50 foot (or longer) partition/structure/treatment that is also perhaps 1 to several feet wide (e.g., a large wall-style partition or covering), or even much smaller dimensions for smaller partitions or coverings.
  • the partition 100 (or 100a-b) can also be configured to drop down from an upper or ceiling support structure, or to be pulled across a horizontal length from one side to another, and thus anchored at two vertical standing posts.
  • the partition can be even further configured with sufficiently rigid materials in some cases to be complete free standing (or at least anchored with only one post).
  • the hollow perforations 120 can be chosen and configured to project certain designs or shapes onto a wall, and/or for light diffusion techniques.
  • the partition is configured in size, shape, and perforation to cover a wall or other form of panel or partition.
  • collapsible partition 100 can be positioned near or about a plurality of light sources, such as halogen or fluorescent bulbs, light emitting diodes, or the like. When the lights are turned on (and effectively trapped between the wall and collapsible partition), the perforated, collapsible partition 100 can project or otherwise create a unique aesthetic and functional effect.
  • the perforated, collapsible partition 100 is further configured to wrap around a light source or light tube, for similar light diffusion effects (e.g., as a lamp shade).
  • the collapsible, perforated partitions 100 described herein can be useful in any range of residential, commercial, and/or otherwise industrial purposes.
  • the partition 100 can be used to separate living spaces in a home or to separate outdoor spaces on a patio, garden, or deck, just as the partition 100 could also be used as a semi-private partition/barrier in virtually any interior or exterior work space.
  • the principles of using and creating a semi-private collapsible partition in accordance with implementations of the present invention can be applied broadly both for structural partitions in existing spaces, and as treatments to existing structures.
  • any of the illustrated partitions e.g., 100-
  • the partitions described herein can be used not only to divide a space (interior or exterior), but also in some cases just as a retractable covering.
  • the retractable covering is specifically cut to differentially filter or otherwise diffuse light coming through from another space, such as light coming through a translucent glass/resin panel or other form of space partition.
  • any or all of the partitions illustrated or otherwise described herein can be manufactured to contain one or more collapse and release apparatus, such as one or more draw string-style apparatus (e.g., with vertically collapsing structures) that are typically used with window blinds.
  • any or all of the partitions can be constructed with a wide range of collapse and release apparatus, so that a user can pull on a string or cord to release or expand the partition to any full or partition expanse/collapse dimension.
  • draw string-style apparatus e.g., with vertically collapsing structures
  • any or all of the partitions can be constructed with a wide range of collapse and release apparatus, so that a user can pull on a string or cord to release or expand the partition to any full or partition expanse/collapse dimension.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Structural Engineering (AREA)
  • Architecture (AREA)
  • Civil Engineering (AREA)
  • Arrangement Of Elements, Cooling, Sealing, Or The Like Of Lighting Devices (AREA)
  • Blinds (AREA)

Abstract

L'invention concerne une cloison ou couverture semi-privée comprenant : une structure pouvant être affaissée renfermant une pluralité de perforations uniformes. La pluralité de perforations uniformes peut être configurée en taille, forme et dimension pour conférer des différences non seulement esthétiques mais fonctionnelles d'une cloison à l'autre. Un fabricant peut fabriquer une cloison en formant une structure pouvant s'affaisser, tel qu'en liant une pluralité de cellules allongées le long d'une pluralité de coutures horizontales différentes. Le fabricant peut alors positionner une pluralité d'appareils de découpe autour de la structure et appliquer l'appareil de découpe pour créer des perforations creuses traversant la profondeur entière de la structure pouvant s'affaisser (par exemple, une fois dilatée). La cloison peut être montée sur une structure de support supérieure ou latérale pour toute combinaison d'extension/contraction verticale ou horizontale de la cloison.
PCT/US2008/063934 2007-05-17 2008-05-16 Cloison perforée légère pouvant être affaissée WO2008144537A1 (fr)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP08755733.6A EP2147180B1 (fr) 2007-05-17 2008-05-16 Cloison perforée légère pouvant être affaissée
US12/619,203 US8256488B2 (en) 2007-05-17 2009-11-16 Collapsible light-weight perforated partition

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US93869407P 2007-05-17 2007-05-17
US60/938,694 2007-05-17

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US12/619,203 Continuation US8256488B2 (en) 2007-05-17 2009-11-16 Collapsible light-weight perforated partition

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2008144537A1 true WO2008144537A1 (fr) 2008-11-27

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Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2008/063934 WO2008144537A1 (fr) 2007-05-17 2008-05-16 Cloison perforée légère pouvant être affaissée

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (1) EP2147180B1 (fr)
WO (1) WO2008144537A1 (fr)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2010072003A1 (fr) * 2008-12-23 2010-07-01 Molo Design, Ltd. Système de meuble souple
US8256488B2 (en) 2007-05-17 2012-09-04 3Form, Inc. Collapsible light-weight perforated partition
US8915288B2 (en) 2012-02-23 2014-12-23 Molo Design, Ltd. Clad partition

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US3593671A (en) 1969-10-21 1971-07-20 Narad Inc Reinforced load spacer
US4397347A (en) * 1980-08-12 1983-08-09 Henri Brabant Foldable panel or door
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GB531462A (en) 1939-12-14 1941-01-03 Lawrence Frederick Donner Improvements in blinds
US3593671A (en) 1969-10-21 1971-07-20 Narad Inc Reinforced load spacer
US4397347A (en) * 1980-08-12 1983-08-09 Henri Brabant Foldable panel or door
US6319586B1 (en) * 1991-01-02 2001-11-20 Hunter Douglas Inc. Honeycomb insulating panel
US6427409B2 (en) * 1995-11-22 2002-08-06 Hunter Douglas Inc. Cladding system and panel for use in such system
US6630222B1 (en) * 2000-06-16 2003-10-07 Johns Manville International, Inc. Acoustic media
US7185691B2 (en) * 2003-10-06 2007-03-06 Toti Andrew J Reversible pull cord mechanism and system

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See also references of EP2147180A4 *

Cited By (11)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US8561666B2 (en) 2005-03-18 2013-10-22 Molo Design, Ltd. Flexible furniture system
US9243403B2 (en) 2005-03-18 2016-01-26 Molo Design, Ltd. Flexible furniture system
US9290935B2 (en) 2005-03-18 2016-03-22 Molo Design, Ltd. Flexible furniture system
US9309668B2 (en) 2005-03-18 2016-04-12 Molo Design, Ltd. Flexible furniture system
US9394686B2 (en) 2005-03-18 2016-07-19 Molo Design, Ltd. Flexible furniture system
US9512615B2 (en) 2005-03-18 2016-12-06 Molo Design, Ltd. Flexible furniture system
US9689161B2 (en) 2005-03-18 2017-06-27 Molo Design, Ltd. Flexible furniture system
US9797134B2 (en) 2005-03-18 2017-10-24 Molo Design, Ltd. Flexible furniture system
US8256488B2 (en) 2007-05-17 2012-09-04 3Form, Inc. Collapsible light-weight perforated partition
WO2010072003A1 (fr) * 2008-12-23 2010-07-01 Molo Design, Ltd. Système de meuble souple
US8915288B2 (en) 2012-02-23 2014-12-23 Molo Design, Ltd. Clad partition

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP2147180A1 (fr) 2010-01-27
EP2147180B1 (fr) 2015-03-11
EP2147180A4 (fr) 2013-10-02

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