WO2014039278A2 - Modular wall system - Google Patents

Modular wall system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2014039278A2
WO2014039278A2 PCT/US2013/056247 US2013056247W WO2014039278A2 WO 2014039278 A2 WO2014039278 A2 WO 2014039278A2 US 2013056247 W US2013056247 W US 2013056247W WO 2014039278 A2 WO2014039278 A2 WO 2014039278A2
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
panel
frameless
wall panel
secured
ceiling
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2013/056247
Other languages
French (fr)
Other versions
WO2014039278A3 (en
Inventor
Eberhard Von Hoyningen Huene
Michael Salzman
Anneke Struis
Original Assignee
Allsteel 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
Priority claimed from US13/594,657 external-priority patent/US8613168B2/en
Application filed by Allsteel Inc. filed Critical Allsteel Inc.
Priority to AU2013313203A priority Critical patent/AU2013313203B2/en
Priority to GB1502562.0A priority patent/GB2519889B/en
Priority to CN201380054294.XA priority patent/CN104736787B/en
Priority to BR112015003744A priority patent/BR112015003744A2/en
Priority to CA2882868A priority patent/CA2882868A1/en
Priority to JP2015528661A priority patent/JP6449767B2/en
Priority to MX2015002232A priority patent/MX357368B/en
Publication of WO2014039278A2 publication Critical patent/WO2014039278A2/en
Publication of WO2014039278A3 publication Critical patent/WO2014039278A3/en
Priority to HK15111470.9A priority patent/HK1210818A1/en

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
    • 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
    • E04B2/72—Non-load-bearing walls of elements of relatively thin form with respect to the thickness of the wall
    • 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
    • E04B2/7401—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge assembled using panels without a frame or supporting posts, with or without upper or lower edge locating rails
    • 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
    • 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
    • E04B2/827—Partitions constituted of sliding panels
    • 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
    • E06B1/00—Border constructions of openings in walls, floors, or ceilings; Frames to be rigidly mounted in such openings
    • E06B1/56—Fastening frames to the border of openings or to similar contiguous frames
    • E06B1/60—Fastening frames to the border of openings or to similar contiguous frames by mechanical means, e.g. anchoring means
    • 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
    • E04B2002/7483—Details of furniture, e.g. tables or shelves, associated with the partitions
    • 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
    • E04B2002/7488—Details of wiring
    • 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
    • E04B2002/749—Partitions with screw-type jacks
    • E04B2002/7492—Partitions with screw-type jacks used in partitions extending from floor to ceiling
    • 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
    • E06B1/00—Border constructions of openings in walls, floors, or ceilings; Frames to be rigidly mounted in such openings
    • E06B1/56—Fastening frames to the border of openings or to similar contiguous frames
    • E06B1/60—Fastening frames to the border of openings or to similar contiguous frames by mechanical means, e.g. anchoring means
    • E06B1/6069—Separate spacer means acting exclusively in the plane of the opening; Shims; Wedges; Tightening of a complete frame inside a wall opening
    • E06B1/6076—Separate spacer means acting exclusively in the plane of the opening; Shims; Wedges; Tightening of a complete frame inside a wall opening of screw-type

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a wall panel system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a moveable non-progressive mountable and demountable wall panel system for butt-glazed wall panels.
  • fixed wall systems Some problems associated with fixed wall systems are the inability to displace and/or move the fixed wall systems once they are mounted; the inability to readily install pass through components (wiring, etc.) after the fixed wall systems have been mounted; and the inability to readily change aspects and features of the fixed wall systems once they are installed. Furthermore, fixed wall systems are also disadvantageous because their installation is quite lengthy. For example, for conventional gyproc walls, one must first install supporting studs, then affix gyproc panels thereto, then plaster thereon, wait for drying of the plaster, sanding subsequently and then finishing the surfaces of the gyproc walls. It is well known in the art that the mounting of such fixed wall systems usually extends over several days and requires a great deal of manual labor, which is thus very inefficient and very cost ineffective.
  • moveable wall systems Some of the problems associated with moveable wall systems are that, very often, their components are over-engineered (e.g. too heavy), different and specialized tooling is required for assembling such moveable wall systems, and the moveable wall systems generally comprise various different components which are not readily interchangeable. As a result of the above-mentioned, installation of such moveable wall systems is generally quite lengthy and cumbersome. Furthermore, it is well known in the art that such moveable wall systems, by virtue of their design, offer generally very poor sound proofing, light proofing and/or vibration proofing.
  • non-progressive wall systems Some of the problems associated with non-progressive wall systems are the inability to independently change, move, and/or alter a particular component of the non-progressive wall system without affecting the other components operatively connected to said particular component. Indeed, by virtue of their design, non-progressive wall systems generally have several components which are intricately connected to one another and thus prevent one particular component thereof from being changed, moved, and/or altered without disturbing the other components of the non-progressive wall system. [0006] Furthermore, with several conventional wall panel systems, certain components thereof need to be anchored (penetrated, nailed, screwed, etc.) into the floor or the ceiling, which leads to substantial drawbacks, such as holes in the floor and/or corresponding carpet, damages to property, etc.
  • a movable and demountable wall panel system for framed wall panels that is, substantially rectangular shaped wall panels comprising opposite top and bottom distance channels, and opposite side vertical posts, with outer covers, having been designed by the Applicant of the present case, is the one described in US patent No. 6,688,056 B2 granted on February 10, 2004, to VON HOYNINGEN HUENE et al. More particularly, this document describes a moveable and demountable wall panel system including a plurality of panels each having opposite top and bottom distance channels, opposite left and right vertical posts, a panel covering, a ceiling rail, and an articulating floor channel. The distance channels and vertical posts are affixed to one another by connecting studs in order to form a rectangular support frame of the panel.
  • the articulating floor channel is operatively connected to a bottom portion of the rectangular support frame by left and right glide assemblies mounted into receiving channels of the left and right vertical posts respectively.
  • the articulating floor channel is used for operatively securing the rectangular support frame of the panel to a ground surface.
  • Each vertical post has at least one receiving lip extending along a direction substantially parallel to the vertical axis of the panel.
  • Some embodiments relate to a wall panel of a moveable and demountable frameless wall panel system that is secured between a floor of a room and a ceiling rail secured to a ceiling of the room.
  • the wall panel includes a frameless panel, an upper clamp assembly, a ceiling track configured to be removably inserted into the ceiling rail, a lower clamp assembly, a first height adjustment mechanism secured to the lower clamp assembly, a second height adjustment mechanism, and a bottom floor channel receiving the first height and second height adjustment mechanisms.
  • Some embodiments relate to moveable and demountable wall panel systems for defining an office space with a plurality of wall panels disposable in a substantially upright manner between a floor and a ceiling each having respectively a series of uppermost and lowermost deviations, each wall panel having a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, and comprising: at least one prefabricated frameless panel, each panel having a given height defined between top and bottom edges, and a given width defined between left and right side edges, the top edge of each panel being provided with a ceiling track configured for being removably insertable into a corresponding ceiling rail extending along the ceiling and delimiting the office space;
  • a bottom floor channel associated with each corresponding panel and being configured for operatively resting against the floor opposite to the ceiling rail extending along the ceiling;
  • each height adjustment assembly comprising a support edge for operatively supporting a bottom portion of each panel, each height adjustment assembly being selectively operable as to be adjustably raised or lowered, thereby allowing a vertical height adjustment of each panel and a rotational angle adjustment thereof;
  • At least one connecting plate for removably connecting a pair of bottom floor channels, each connector and bottom channel being positioned, shaped and sized with respect to one another for ensuring that the side edges of a pair of neighboring prefabricated frameless panels cooperate with one another in order to define the office space.
  • Some embodiments provide a prefabricated, modular and frameless butt- glazed wall panel construction system that can be moveable and demountable, from one location to another, without a "stickbuilt” approach, and without leaving any adverse or destructive effects behind.
  • an office space having been defined with the above-mentioned wall panel system and/or components thereof.
  • a kit with corresponding components for assembling the above-mentioned office space.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of an office space assembly having been assembled with a wall panel system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the office space assembly being shown with butt-glazed wall panels and a pair of corresponding doors.
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of a butt-glazed frameless wall panel cooperating with a ceiling rail according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 2.
  • Figure 4 is an enlarged view of a top portion of what is shown in Figure 3.
  • Figure 5 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in Figure
  • Figure 6 is a partial top perspective view of an assembly of a pair of butt- glazed wall panels disposed along a 180°-angle connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown without a ceiling cover so as to better illustrate the ceiling track of each wall panel.
  • Figure 7 is a partial bottom perspective view of an assembly of a pair of butt-glazed wall panels disposed along a 180°-angle connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown without a bottom cover so as to better illustrate the bottom channel and height adjustment assemblies of each wall panel, as well as the connecting plate interconnecting extremities of a pair of bottom channels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 7.
  • Figure 9 is a partial bottom perspective view of an assembly of a pair of butt-glazed wall panels disposed along a 90°-angle connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown without bottom covers so as to better illustrate the bottom channel and height adjustment assemblies of each wall panel, as well as the connecting plate interconnecting extremities of a pair of bottom channels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 9.
  • Figure 1 1 is a partial top perspective view of an assembly of butt-glazed wall panels disposed along a 3-way connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown with corresponding ceiling covers.
  • Figure 12 is a partial bottom perspective view of an assembly of butt- glazed wall panels disposed along a 3-way connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown with corresponding bottom covers.
  • Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 12.
  • Figure 14 is a partial bottom perspective view of a butt-glazed wall panel assembly disposed along a three-way connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown with corresponding bottom covers.
  • Figure 15 is a side elevational view of a butt-glazed wall panel assembly disposed along a three-way connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the wall panel assembly being shown with top and bottom covers.
  • Figure 16 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
  • Figure 17 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 18 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 17.
  • Figure 19 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 17.
  • Figure 20 is a front elevational view of what is shown in Figure 17.
  • Figure 21 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 18, the height adjustment assembly being now shown in a raised configuration.
  • Figure 22 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 21 , the height adjustment assembly being now shown in a lowered configuration.
  • Figure 23 is a perspective view of a height adjusting rod provided with a pair of distal bushings according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 24 is a side elevational view of the height adjusting rod shown in
  • Figure 25 is a front plan view of what is shown in Figure 24.
  • Figure 26 is a side elevational view of one of the bushings shown in Figure
  • Figure 27 is a rear elevational view of what is shown in Figure 26.
  • Figure 28 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the height adjustment assembly being shown in a lowered configuration.
  • Figure 29 is another perspective view of what is shown in Figure 28, the height adjustment assembly being now shown with certain parts having been removed so as to better illustrate inner components of the height adjustment assembly.
  • Figure 30 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 28, the height adjustment assembly being now shown in a raised configuration.
  • Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 30.
  • Figure 32 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 30, the height adjustment assembly being now shown in a lowered configuration.
  • Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 32.
  • Figure 34 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 35 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 34.
  • Figure 36 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 34.
  • Figure 37 is a side elevational view of some of the components shown in
  • Figure 38 is a front elevational view of one of the components shown in
  • Figure 39 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 38.
  • Figure 40 is a perspective view of one of the components shown in Figure
  • Figure 41 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the height adjustment assembly being shown with certain components having been removed therefrom so as to better illustrate inner components of the height adjustment assembly.
  • Figure 42 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 41 .
  • Figure 43 is a perspective view of a connecting plate provided with four projections and an anchoring hole about the center point according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 44 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 43.
  • Figure 45 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 43.
  • Figure 46 is another perspective view of what is shown in Figure 43, the projections of the connecting plate being now provided with corresponding nuts, and the connecting plate being further provided with a threaded anchor extending downwardly from a center point of the connecting plate according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 47 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 46.
  • Figure 48 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 46.
  • Figure 49 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly provided with butt-glazed distraction markers according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 50 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 49.
  • Figure 51 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 49.
  • Figure 52 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 50.
  • Figure 53 is a perspective view of a complementary accessory assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 54 is an exploded view of the component shown in Figure 53.
  • Figure 55 is a side view of what is shown in Figure 53.
  • Figure 56 is a side view of what is shown in Figure 54.
  • Figure 57 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly being provided with butt-glazed snap-on wood shelves according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 58 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 57.
  • Figure 59 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 58.
  • Figure 60 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 58.
  • Figure 61 is a perspective view of a complementary accessory assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 62 is an exploded view of the components shown in Figure 61 .
  • Figure 63 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 61 .
  • Figure 64 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 62.
  • Figure 65 is a partial view of a wood shell provided with a hooking plate according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 66 is a perspective view of the hooking plate shown in Figure 65.
  • Figure 67 is a front plan view of what is shown in Figure 66.
  • Figure 68 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly being provided with butt-glazed snap-on glass shells according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 69 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 68.
  • Figure 70 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 68.
  • Figure 71 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 69.
  • Figure 72 is a perspective view of a complementary accessory assembly according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 73 is an exploded view of the component shown in Figure 72.
  • Figure 74 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 72.
  • Figure 75 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 73.
  • Figure 76 is a side elevational view of a sliding door assembly operatively mounted onto a ceiling track and comprising a sliding wood door according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 77 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 76.
  • Figure 78 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 76.
  • Figure 79 is a perspective view of a sliding door mounting bracket according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 80 is a partial top view of a sliding door assembly operatively mounted onto a corresponding ceiling track and ceiling rail according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, some of the components being shown in an exploded relationship, including sliding door mounting bracket and wood door.
  • Figure 81 is a side elevational view of a sliding door hardware being shown in an exploded relationship with a corresponding sliding door mounting bracket according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 82 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 78.
  • Figure 83 is a perspective view of what is shown in Figure 76.
  • Figure 84 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of what is shown in
  • Figure 83 is a perspective view of the bottom guide plug shown in Figure 84.
  • Figure 86 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 84.
  • Figure 87 is a side elevational view of a sliding door assembly operatively mounted onto a ceiling track and ceiling rail and comprising a sliding glass door according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 88 is a schematic side view of what is shown in Figure 87.
  • Figure 89 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 88.
  • Figure 90 is a partial top perspective view of a sliding door assembly operatively mounted onto a corresponding ceiling track and ceiling rail and comprising a sliding glass door according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, some of the components shown in an exploded relationship with respect to others so as to namely better illustrate a corresponding glass clamp according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 91 is a side elevational view of a sliding door hardware being shown in an exploded relationship with respect to a corresponding glass clamp according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 92 is a top plan view of a rightmost portion of what is shown in Figure 91 .
  • Figure 93 is a partial side elevational view of a rightmost portion of what is shown in Figure 91.
  • Figure 94 is a perspective view of the upper glass clamp shown in Figure 90, the upper glass clamp being shown provided with a height adjustment fastener.
  • Figure 95 is a front elevational view of what is shown in Figure 94.
  • Figure 96 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 94.
  • Figure 97 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 94.
  • Figure 98 is a partial bottom perspective view of a glass sliding door assembly, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, some of the components being shown in an exploded relationship with respect to others so as to better illustrate a bottom glass clamp according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 99 is a perspective view of a bottom glass clamp shown in Figure
  • Figure 100 is a front elevational view of what is shown in Figure 99.
  • Figure 101 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 99.
  • Figure 102 is a side elevational view of a pair of glass post panels being assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 103 is an enlarged view of a top portion of what is shown in Figure
  • Figure 104 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
  • Figure 105 is a bottom plan view of a pair of glass post panels being assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 106 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 105.
  • Figure 107 is a partial top view of a three-way glass post panel assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 108 is a partial bottom view of a three-way glass post panel assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 109 is a side elevational view of a three-way glass post panel assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
  • Figure 1 10 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
  • Figure 1 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of a glass post panel three-way assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 1 1 1.
  • Figure 13 is a perspective view of a wall panel assembly including a solid panel and a glass post panel assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 14 is an enlarged view of a top portion of what is shown in Figure 1 13.
  • Figure 1 15 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in Figure 1 13.
  • Figure 1 16 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 1 13.
  • Figure 1 17 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
  • Figure 1 18 is a perspective view of a wall panel assembly including a door post according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 19 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 1 18.
  • Figure 120 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly comprising two solid panels assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 121 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
  • Figure 120 an outer shell of one of the solid panels having been removed so as to better illustrate inner components of the assembly.
  • Figure 122 is a perspective view of a post connection clip according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 123 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 122.
  • Figure 124 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 122.
  • Figure 125 is a side elevational view of a solid panel metallic frame according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the solid panel metallic frame being shown with an adjustable bottom cover.
  • Figure 126 is a side view of what is shown in Figure 125.
  • Figure 127 is a perspective view of an intermediate distance channel shown in an exploded relationship with a vertical post of a solid panel metallic frame according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 128 is a cross-sectional view of an assembled configuration of what is shown in Figure 127.
  • Figure 129 is a side elevational view of a solid panel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 130 is a partial enlarged view of some of the components of a solid wall panel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, some of the components being shown in an exploded relationship.
  • Figure 131 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a solid wall panel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 132 is a perspective view of what is shown in Figure 131.
  • Figure 133 is a perspective view of a solid panel metallic shell hooking assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 134 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 133.
  • Figure 135 is a cross-sectional view of a solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 136 is a cross-sectional view of a solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 137 is a partial perspective view of a wall panel being provided with hooking channels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 138 is an exploded view of what is shown in Figure 137.
  • Figure 139 is a schematic representation of a hooking bracket cooperating with a horizontal hooking channel of a wall panel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 140 is a partial view of a wall panel being provided with a pair of hooking brackets, one of said hooking brackets being shown in a hooked configuration within the horizontal hooking channel, and the hooking bracket being shown in intermediate configuration.
  • Figure 141 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly disposed along a clear story configuration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 142 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a top portion of what is shown in Figure 141 .
  • Figure 143 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in Figure 141.
  • Figure 144 is a fragmentary perspective view of a framed glass panel being provided with a dropdown cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 145 is a bottom perspective of what is shown in Figure 144, the framed glass panel being now without a bottom cover.
  • Figure 146 is a side view of a framed wall panel being provided with a spring-loaded dropdown cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 147 is a cross-sectional view of a framed wall panel being provided with a spring-loaded dropdown cover according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figures 148 and 149 are perspective views showing a butt-glazed frameless wall panel system during installation according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 150 is an exploded view of a pre-assembled frameless wall panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 151 is a perspective view of an upper clamp assembly of the pre- assembled wall panel of Figure 150.
  • Figure 152 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly of the pre-assembled wall panel of Figure 150.
  • Figure 153 is a perspective view of a door frame according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 154 is an enlarged view of area 154-154 of Figure 153.
  • Figure 155 is a top view of the enlarged area of Figure 149.
  • Figure 156 is an enlarged view showing top portions of adjacent frameless, butt-glazed wall panels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 157 is a sectional view taken along line 157-157 of Figure 156.
  • Figure 158 is a front view of an upper interconnect of Figure 157 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 159 is a side view of the upper interconnect of Figure 158 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 160 is an enlarged view showing lower portions of adjacent frameless, butt-glazed wall panels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 161 is a top view of the lower interconnect of Figure 160 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 162 is a side view of the lower interconnect of Figure 161 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figures 163-167 show a height adjustment assembly, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 168 shows a frameless wall panel system, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 169-171 show rail and tile systems usable with the wall panel system of Figure 168.
  • Figure 172 shows a back view of the wall panel system of Figure 168.
  • Figure 173 is a sectional view along line 173-173 of Figure 168.
  • Figures 174 and 175 are enlarged views of portions of Figure 172.
  • Figures 176 and 177 show components of an electrical outlet assembly of the wall panel system of Figure 168, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • a "framed" wall panel which typically consists of a substantially rectangular shape, and comprises opposite top and bottom distance channels, and opposite left and right vertical posts, which make the "frame” of the framed wall panel, and a “frameless” wall panel, which is a wall panel deprived of such distance channels and vertical posts (e.g. a straightforward glass panel not having a frame around it, etc.), as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
  • the preferred embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings may comprise various components, and although the preferred embodiment of the wall panel system as shown consists of certain geometrical configurations as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components and geometries are essential to the invention and thus should not be taken in their restrictive sense, i.e. should not be taken as to limit the scope of the present invention. It is to be understood, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art, that other suitable components and cooperation thereinbetween, as well as other suitable geometrical configurations may be used for the wall panel system and corresponding components according to the present invention, as will be briefly explained hereinafter and as can be easily inferred herefrom by a person skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the invention.
  • first end cap component (of first end cap 441 )
  • first end cap component (of second end cap 443)
  • outer covering (or metallic shell)
  • the present wall panel system is a moveable non-progressive mountable and demountable wall panel system, particularly well suited for mounting frameless wall panels, such as butt-glazed wall panels, for example, in a very quick, easy and systematic manner, something that is not possible with conventional wall panel systems.
  • the present invention is the next and innovative generation of wall panel systems, being a considerable improvement over other wall panel systems, such as, for example, the one designed by the Applicant of the present case, and described in US patent No. 6,688,056 B2 granted on February 10th, 2004, to VON HOYNINGEN HUENE et al., the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
  • the wall panel system (301 ) is a moveable and demountable wall panel system (301 ) for defining an office space (303) with a plurality of wall panels (305) disposable in a substantially upright manner between a floor (307) and a ceiling (309) each having respectively a series of uppermost and lowermost deviations, each wall panel (305) having a vertical axis (31 1 ) and a horizontal axis (313), and comprising:
  • each panel (315) having a given height (317) defined between top and bottom edges (319,321 ), and a given width (323) defined between left and right side edges (325a, 325b), a pair of top clamp assemblies (326) secured to the top edge (319) of each panel (305) such that the top edge (310) is provided with a ceiling track (327) configured for being removably insertable into a corresponding ceiling rail (329) extending along the ceiling (309) and delimiting the office space (303);
  • a bottom floor channel (331 ) associated with each corresponding panel (315) and being configured for operatively resting against the floor (307) opposite to the ceiling rail (329) extending along the ceiling (309);
  • each height adjustment assembly (333) associated with each panel (315) and insertable into a corresponding bottom floor channel (331 ), each height adjustment assembly (333) comprising a support edge (335) for operatively supporting a bottom portion of each panel (315), each height adjustment assembly (333) being selectively operable as to be adjustably raised or lowered, thereby allowing a vertical height adjustment of each panel (315) and a rotational angle adjustment thereof by virtue of a pivot axis (459), as illustrated for example in Figure 18; and
  • each connecting plate (337) for removably connecting a pair of bottom floor channels (331 ), each connecting plate (337) and bottom floor channel (331 ) being positioned, shaped and sized with respect to one another for ensuring that the side edges (325) of a pair of neighboring prefabricated frameless panels (315) cooperate with one another in order to define the office space (303).
  • An example of a resulting office space (303) is shown in Figure 1.
  • each height adjustment assembly (333) may comprise a scissors- type height adjustment mechanism including: a) a base (339); b) opposite first and second end caps (441 ,443) projecting from the base (339); c) a height adjusting rod (445) being rotatively mounted about the end caps (441 ,443), the height adjusting rod (445) having first and second threaded segments (447,449) each being oppositely threaded with respect to one another; and d) first and second adjustment legs (451 ,453), the first adjustment leg (451 ) having a first extremity (452a) pivotably mounted onto a runner component (455) threadedly engaged onto the first threaded segment (447) of the height adjusting rod (445) and a second extremity (452) pivotably mounted onto the support edge (335), and the second adjustment leg (453) having a first extremity (452a) pivotably mounted onto a runner component
  • the second extremities 452 of the first and second adjustment legs (451 ,453) are pivotably mounted onto a bottom portion of the support edge (335) about a common pivot axis (459), as better shown in Figures 17, 18, 21 and 22.
  • the adjustment legs (451 ,453) comprise recessed portions (451 a,453a) for avoiding the height adjusting rod (445) when the adjustment legs (451 ,453) are drawn down into a lowered configuration, as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 17, 18 and 22.
  • the height adjusting rod (445) can be manufactured in a great number of ways, but according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it comprises first and second separate rod components being provided with the first and second threaded segments (447,449) respectively, the first rod component comprising an extremity with a male component being securely insertable into a female component of a corresponding extremity of the second rod component , as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 22-25.
  • FIG. 17-27 it is shown how the height adjusting rod (445) can be rotatively mounted about first and second bushings (461 ,463) provided on the first and second end caps (441 ,443) respectively, although other suitable mounting methods may be used according to the present invention.
  • Figure 20 provides an illustration of the first bushing (461 ), for example, while Figure 17 provides an illustration of the second bushing 461 .
  • each end cap (441 ,443) comprises a first end cap component (441 a, 443a) being removably connectable via at least one corresponding fastener (465) onto a second end cap component (441 b, 443b) being fixed to the base (339) of the height adjustment assembly (333), as can be easily understood from Figures 17 and 20.
  • At least one distal extremity of the height adjusting rod (445) is provided with a socket (467) for receiving a corresponding insert of a driving tool, but preferably, both extremities of the height adjusting rod (445) are provided with a socket (467) for receiving a corresponding insert of a driving tool, so as to namely enable to operate the height adjustment assembly (333) from both sides thereof.
  • each socket (467), height adjusting rod (445) and support edge (335) of each height adjustment assembly (333) lie substantially in a same vertical plane, under a corresponding wall panel (305,315).
  • each height adjustment assembly (333) comprises opposite first and second clamps (469,471 ) to define a lower clamp assembly
  • first and second clamps (469,471 ) are provided with a gasket at location
  • each height adjustment assembly (333) comprises at least one connector (475) extending between the first and second clamps (469,471 ).
  • each connector (475) is a clamp screw being configured with respect to the first and second clamps (469,471 ) for urging said clamps (469,471 ) towards one another via a corresponding rotation of the clamp screw.
  • Each connector (475) may be provided with a bushing (479), and in such a case, the bushing is preferably a nylon bushing (479), although other suitable components and materials may be used according to the present invention.
  • each prefabricated frameless panel (315) is provided with at least one positioning notch (477) for cooperating with a corresponding connector (475), which is part of the clamp assembly (472).
  • Each notch (477) is preferably prefabricated onto each panel (315) in a precise manner using an appropriate method. While the notch(es) (477) are not visible, for example, in Figures 7 and 9, an embodiment of the notch (477) can be seen in Figure 150. Among other advantages, the presence of such positioning notches (477) enable to easily and precisely place each panel (315) onto a corresponding pair of height adjustment assemblies (333), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 7 and 9, for example.
  • each height adjustment assembly (333) is preferably made symmetrical along a longitudinal axis (481 ) thereof.
  • each height adjustment assembly (333) is a power-drivable height adjustment assembly (333) being selectively adjustable via a power drill through a corresponding socket (467) of the height adjustment assembly (333).
  • the socket (467) of the height adjustment assembly (333) may extend in a substantially parallel relationship with respect to the support edge (335) thereof, as explained earlier, and as exemplified in Figures 17-22.
  • the socket (467) of the height adjustment assembly (333) may extend in a substantially traverse relationship with respect to the support edge (335) thereof.
  • a telescopic height adjustment assembly (333) including a telescoping screw-type height adjustment mechanism the adjustment mechanism including a first substantially vertical member (334) that is cylindrical in shape and has inner threads and outer threads, a second substantially vertical member (336) that is cylindrical in shape and has inner and outer threads, and a third substantially vertical member (338) that is cylindrical in shape and has inner and outer threads.
  • the third vertical member (338) is telescopically received in the second vertical member (336) and the second vertical member (336) is telescopically received in the first vertical member
  • telescoping members e.g., a fourth vertical member (340) telescopically received in the third vertical member 338) are provided.
  • Actuation of the adjustment mechanism includes rotating the first, second, and third members (334,336,338) relative to one another to telescopically extend the third member (338) from the second member (336) and the second member (336) from the first member (334).
  • the system (301 ) includes a double-shaft height adjustment assembly (333) including a screw-type height adjustment mechanism.
  • the double-shaft height adjustment assembly (333) includes a first vertical shaft 1202 extending upwards from a base 339 and a second vertical shaft 1204 extending upwards from a base 339.
  • the first vertical shaft 1202 and the second vertical shaft may be rotated by rotating the worm gear 467.
  • the first vertical shaft 1202 can engage a first nut 1120a, which is disposed within the second clamp 471 while the second vertical shaft 1204 can engage a second nut 1 120, which is disposed within the first clamp 469.
  • the nuts 1 120, 1120a are disposed against rotation within the first clamp 469 and the second clamp 471 , respectively, and thus rotation of the first and second vertical shafts 1202, 1204 can cause the clamps 469, 471 to move vertically in response to rotation of the worm gear 467.
  • each prefabricated frameless panel (315), each bottom floor channel (331 ) and each height adjustment assembly (333) associated with each wall panel (305) are delivered on site in a "pre-assembled” manner, prior to the assembling of the wall panels (305,315) together on site in order to define the office space (303), in order to facilitating and expedite installation.
  • each frameless panel (315) is further pre-assembled with each top clamp assembly (326), and each ceiling track (327) associated with each wall panel (305) in a "pre-assembled” manner.
  • the wall panels (305) are provided on site for installation with the bottom floor channels (331 ), height adjustment assemblies (333), top clamp assemblies (326), and ceiling tracks (327) pre-attached, or otherwise pre- assembled to the frameless panels (315).
  • each connecting plate (337) is a non-invasive connecting plate (337) having a center point (483).
  • non-invasive it is meant that the connecting plate (337) need not be anchored (penetrated, nailed, screwed, etc.) onto the floor, except in areas subject to earthquakes, in which case, legislation may require a corresponding anchoring to the floor, that is why the present connecting plate (337) may also come in a "seismic” version, as explained hereinbelow.
  • each connecting plate (337) comprises a plurality of projections (485) disposed about the center point (483), each projection (485) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding positioning hole of a neighboring bottom floor channel (331 ) of the wall panel system (301 ), the positioning between a pair of adjacent projections (485) being configured so as to ensure proper positioning between adjacent wall panels (305,315) of the system when corresponding bottom floor channels (331 ) are connected to one another via a same connecting plate (337), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 7 and 9, for example
  • each projection (485) is preferably a threaded projection configured for receiving a corresponding nut (489) for removably securing an adjacent bottom floor channel (331 ) against the connecting plate (337).
  • the radial angle ( ⁇ ) originating from the center point (483) of the connecting plate (337) and extending between a pair of adjacent projections (485) is substantially the same throughout the connecting plate (337).
  • the connecting plate (337) comprises first and second projections (485)
  • the radial angle ( ⁇ ) between adjacent projections (485) is about 180°.
  • the connecting plate (337) further comprises third and fourth projections (485)
  • the radial angle ( ⁇ ) between adjacent projections is about 90°.
  • each connecting plate (337) is preferably a carpet gripper.
  • each projection (485) comprises a setscrew (491 ) threadedly engageable into a corresponding hole (493) of the connecting plate (337), and each setscrew (491 ) preferably further comprises a pointed tip (495) for inserting between fibers of a corresponding carpet of the floor (307), so as to avoid damaging or leaving marks on the carpet, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
  • the seismic connecting plate (337) preferably comprises an anchoring hole (497) disposed about the center point (483) for receiving therein a threaded anchor (499) or other suitable component configured for extending downwardly and anchoring the seismic connecting plate (337) onto the floor (307).
  • each connecting plate (337) preferably has a substantially octagonal shape, although other suitable shapes and forms may be used depending on the particular applications for which the present wall panel system (301 ) is used, and the desired end results, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
  • the wall panel (305,315) comprises a ceiling rail (329) associated with each wall panel (305,315), the ceiling rail (329) being removably mountable onto the ceiling (309), shown in Figure 1 , in a suitable manner, as is well known in the art, such as with Caddy clips, for example.
  • the ceiling rail (329) is illustrated, for example, in Figures 6 and 11 .
  • the ceiling rail (329) is preferably substantially U-shaped, and comprises a pair of projecting elements (501 ) having extremities (503) being slanted towards one another, as shown in Figure 4, for example.
  • the ceiling track (327) of each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315) is an extruded profiled ceiling track (327) being substantially complementary in shape to that of the ceiling rail (329), and comprises a pair of longitudinal grooves (505) for receiving a corresponding pair of projecting elements (501 ) of the ceiling rail (329).
  • the ceiling track (327) is optionally secured to the top edge (319) of the panel (305) by a pair of top clamp assemblies (326).
  • Figure 151 is an enlarged view of the clamp assembly (326).
  • the pair of top clamp assemblies (326) are laterally spaced apart a similar distance to that of the pair of lower clamp assemblies (472).
  • each of the top clamp assemblies (326) is substantially shorter in length than the ceiling track 327, for example being about the same length as the lower clamp assemblies (472).
  • each panel (305) includes a pair of ceiling tracks (327) that have lengths substantially less than the overall width of the panel (305), each of the pair of ceiling tracks (327) secured to a corresponding top clamp assembly (326).
  • the wall panel system (301 ) preferably comprises a ceiling cover (507) associated with each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315), the ceiling cover (507) being removably mountable onto the ceiling track (327) of said prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315) in a variety of suitable manners, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
  • the wall panel system (301 ) comprises a bottom cover (509) associated with each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315), the bottom cover (509) being removably mountable onto the bottom floor channel (331 ) of said prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315), in a variety of suitable manners, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
  • the bottom cover (509) is illustrated, for example, in Figures 12 and 13.
  • each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315) is a frameless glass panel (305,315) for defining a frameless butt-glazed assembly (303), as exemplified in Figure 1 , for instance.
  • a gasket (51 1 ) is provided between adjacent side edges (325) of neighboring panels (305,315), as shown in Figure 8, for example.
  • each prefabricated frameless panel (305,315) comprises at least one pre-perforated through-hole (513), as seen in Figure 49, for receiving a corresponding complementary accessory (515).
  • the complementary accessory (515) comprises a bushing (517) insertable into a corresponding through-hole (513), the bushing (517) having opposite ends provided with first and second threaded studs (519,521 ) configured for respectively receiving first and second components of the complementary accessory (515), as better shown in Figure 56, for example.
  • the complementary accessory (515) comprises a washer (523) disposed between each end of the bushing (517) and a corresponding component.
  • the complementary accessory (515) comprises a butt- glazed distraction marker (525), and at least one of the first and second components of the complementary accessory is a distraction marker (525).
  • the complementary accessory (515) comprises a pair of distraction markers (525), both inner and outer, as shown.
  • the complementary accessory (515) may comprise a butt- glazed snap-on wood shell (527), in which case, at least one of the first and second components of the complementary accessory (515) is preferably a hooking knob (529), as better shown in Figure 62.
  • the hooking knob (529) is configured for receiving a hanging plate (531 ) of the butt-glazed snap-on wood shell (527), and the hanging plate (531 ) preferably comprises a hanging hook (533), and at least one hole (535) for receiving a corresponding fastener, as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 65-67.
  • the complementary accessory (515) may comprise a butt- glazed snap-on glass shell (537), in which case, at least one of the first and second components of the complementary accessory (515) is preferably a threaded stand-off stud (539).
  • the complementary accessory (515) further comprises another bushing (517b) having opposite ends provided with first and second threaded studs (519b,521 b) configured for respectively receiving the threaded stand-off stud (539) and a distraction marker (525), as better exemplified in Figures 70-75
  • the prefabricated frameless panels (305) to be used with the present invention can be of various natures and types, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
  • the prefabricated frameless panels (305) could be a suitable laminated panel (305), or as exemplified in the drawings, simply a glass panel (305), that is preferably tempered or laminated.
  • a suitable laminated panel (305) or as exemplified in the drawings, simply a glass panel (305), that is preferably tempered or laminated.
  • various other suitable types of "frameless" panels (305) may be used and could be useful with the present invention, such as for example: gypsum, melamine, MDF, etc.
  • the wall panel system (301 ) comprises a sliding door assembly (541 ) being removably mountable onto the ceiling track (327) of a given prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315) of the wall panel system (301 ).
  • the sliding door assembly (541 ) preferably comprises a sliding door (543) removably mountable onto a sliding door hardware (545) of the sliding door assembly (541 ) via an upper sliding door mounting bracket (547) as illustrated in Figure 78.
  • a bottom portion of the sliding door (543) is provided with a bottom guide plug (549), as better shown in Figure 84 and 85.
  • a bottom portion of the sliding door (543) is provided with a bottom floor seal (551 ), and the bottom floor seal (551 ) may be spring-loaded via a spring 551 a so as to be biased downwardly, as exemplified in Figure 86.
  • the sliding door assembly (541 ) may comprise a sliding glass door (553) removably mountable onto a sliding door hardware (545) of the sliding door assembly (541 ) via a pair of upper glass clamps (555a), the sliding door assembly (541 ) further comprising a height adjustment fastener (557) cooperating between the sliding door hardware (545) and each upper glass clamp (555a), and configured for selectively adjusting the vertical distance between said sliding door hardware and each upper glass clamp (555a), so as to in turn selectively adjust the height and angle of the sliding glass door (553) with respect to the floor (307).
  • a height adjustment fastener 557 cooperating between the sliding door hardware (545) and each upper glass clamp (555a) cooperating between the sliding door hardware (545) and each upper glass clamp (555a), and configured for selectively adjusting the vertical distance between said sliding door hardware and each upper glass clamp (555a), so as to in turn selectively adjust the height and angle of the sliding glass door (553) with respect to the floor (307).
  • the sliding glass door (553) is provided with a pair of bottom glass clamps (555b), which in turn are preferably provided with a bottom floor seal (559).
  • a bottom glass clamp (555b) is preferably provided with a bottom floor seal (559).
  • opposite inner surfaces of each glass clamp (555) are provided with corresponding gaskets (561 ).
  • each glass clamp (555) comprises a tightening assembly (563) for urging the inner surfaces of the clamp (555) towards one another via a corresponding tightening of the tightening assembly (563), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 89 and 94-100.
  • the sliding door hardware (545) is preferably provided with a soft-stop mechanism, not illustrated.
  • Figure 102 is a side elevational view of a pair of glass post panels 950 being assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 103 is an enlarged view of a top portion and
  • Figure 104 is an enlarged view of the pair of glass post panels 950.
  • Figure 105 is a bottom plan view of a pair of glass post panels being assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the connecting plate 337 and the bottom floor channel 331.
  • Figure 106 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 105.
  • Figure 107 is a partial top view of a three-way glass post panel 952 assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 108 is a partial bottom view of the three-way glass post panel assembly 952.
  • Figure 109 is a side elevational view of the three-way glass post panel assembly 952.
  • Figure 1 10 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of the three-way glass post panel assembly 952.
  • Figure 1 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of a glass post panel three-way assembly 954.
  • Figure 1 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of the glass post three-way panel assembly 954.
  • Figure 1 13 is a perspective view of a wall panel assembly 956 including a solid panel 970 and a glass post panel 950 assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 14 is an enlarged view of a top portion of the wall panel assembly 956.
  • Figure 1 15 is an enlarged view of the wall panel assembly 956.
  • Figure 1 16 is a side elevational view of the wall panel assembly 956.
  • Figure 1 17 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of the wall panel assembly 956.
  • each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305) of the wall panel system (301 ) has substantially the same height and the same width, said same height corresponding to a predetermined average height between the floor (307) and the ceiling (309), and each height adjustment assembly (333) being selectively adjusted to compensate for deviations between the floor (307) and the ceiling (309).
  • each height adjustment assembly (333) being selectively adjusted to compensate for deviations between the floor (307) and the ceiling (309).
  • pre-assembly includes securing a first one of the lower clamp assemblies (472), shown in Figure 5, to the front and back of the frameless panel (315) at the bottom portion of the frameless panel (315).
  • second one of the lower clamp assemblies (472) is also optionally secured to the bottom portion of the frameless panel (315), the first and second clamp assemblies (472) generally being located toward opposite sides of the frameless panel (315).
  • the bottom floor channel (331 ) is extended in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the panel (315) along the bottom of the frameless panel (315).
  • a first one of the height adjustment mechanisms (333) is secured to the first one of the lower clamp assemblies (472) and the bottom floor channel (331 ), the first adjustment mechanism (333) being configured to selectively modify the vertical position of the frameless panel (315).
  • a second one of the height adjustment mechanisms (333) is secured to the bottom floor channel (331 ), the second height adjustment mechanism (333) being configured to selectively modify a vertical position of the frameless panel (315) independent of the first height adjustment mechanism (333).
  • the first height adjustment mechanism (333) and the second height adjustment mechanism (333) can be disposed at opposing bottom corners of the frameless panel (315).
  • a user (not shown) is able to selectively raise the left and right sides of the frameless panel (315) (e.g., manually or using a power tool), according to some embodiments.
  • the ceiling track (327), shown in Figure 6, is extended in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the frameless panel (315) along the top of the frameless panel (315), the ceiling track (327) being configured to be removably inserted into the ceiling rail (329).
  • one of the upper, or top clamp assemblies (326) is secured to the front and the back of the frameless panel (315) at the top portion of the frameless panel (315) and the upper clamp assembly (326) is secured to the ceiling track (327), using a bolt fastener, for example.
  • a second one of the upper clamp assemblies (326), illustrated in Figure 4 is secured to the top portion of the frameless panel (315), the first and second upper clamp assemblies (326) being generally located toward opposites sides of the panel (315).
  • one or more of the pre-assembled wall panels (305) are delivered to the installation site.
  • a plurality of pre-assembled wall panels (305) are provided as a shipping kit or kit of parts to the installation site with additional components of the wall panel system (301 ).
  • some methods of installing the wall panel system (301 ) between the floor of the room and the ceiling rail (329) include aligning the ceiling track (327) of the pre-assembled wall panel (305) with the ceiling rail (329).
  • the ceiling track (327) is removably inserted into the ceiling rail (329) by angling or tilting the top of the wall panel (305) forward.
  • the bottom of the wall panel (305) is the brought forward and the floor channel (331 ) is operatively rested against the floor with the ceiling track (327) received in the ceiling rail (329).
  • a vertical position of the pre- assembled wall panel (305) is then adjusted by actuating one more of the adjustment mechanisms (333) with the ceiling track (327) being constrained front to back by the ceiling rail (329) while also being able to slide up and down vertically as the vertical position of the pre-assembled wall panel (305) is adjusted.
  • height adjustment is accomplished manually (i.e., without the assistance of a powered tool, such as an electric drill).
  • the adjustment mechanisms are actuated using a power tool.
  • actuating the adjustment mechanism includes driving a first end of a first leg and first end of a second leg toward one another, a second end of the first leg being pivotably connected relative to a second end of the second leg.
  • actuation of the adjustment mechanism includes rotating the first, second, and third members (334,336, 338) relative to one another to telescopically extend the third member (338) from the second member (336) and the second member (336) from the first member (334).
  • a bottom cover (509) fits along the bottom.
  • the present wall panel system (301 ) may be used with and further comprises at least one framed wall panel (567) to be assembled with at least one other wall panel (305,315,567) of the wall panel system (301 ), whether a "frameless" wall panel (315) or a "framed” wall panel (567).
  • each height adjustment assembly (333) comprising a support edge (335) for operatively supporting a bottom distance (569) of the framed wall panel (567), so as to selectively raise or lower the framed wall panel (567) by raising or lowering the bottom distance channel (569) thereof accordingly, thereby allowing a vertical height adjustment of the framed wall panel (567) and a rotational angle adjustment thereof, similarly to each "frameless" wall panel (315) of the wall panel system (301 ).
  • the framed wall panel (567) comprises a dropdown cover
  • said dropdown cover (571 ) being nestable within the bottom distance channel (569) of the framed wall panel (567) and being operable between lowered and raised configurations so as to selectively have access to the height adjustment assemblies (333) associated with the framed wall panel (567), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 144-147.
  • the dropdown cover (571 ) is spring loaded with a corresponding spring (573) disposed between the bottom distance channel (569) and the dropdown cover (571 ), so as to urge the dropdown cover (571 ) towards a lowered configuration, against the floor (307), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 146 and 147.
  • Figure 1 18 is a perspective view of a wall panel assembly 980 including a door post 982 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 1 19 is a side elevational view of the wall panel assembly 980.
  • first and second neighboring framed wall panels (567) are connected to one another with at least one post connection clip (577) being removably insertable into a pair of slots (579) of adjacent vertical posts (575).
  • the framed wall panel (567) comprises an intermediate distance channel (581 ), and an outer covering (583) provided with an inner hanging component (585), the outer covering (583) being mounted onto the framed wall panel (567) by hanging the hanging component (585) thereof onto the intermediate distance channel (581 ), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 125-132.
  • the outer covering (583) may be a metallic shell (583), in which case, the inner hanging component (585) thereof is also preferably a stiffening component (587) for providing structural rigidity to the metallic shell (583), as exemplified in Figures 133 and 134.
  • Figure 135 is a cross-sectional view of a solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly 990 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention including a wall structure 1102 made of a first material.
  • Figure 136 is a cross-sectional view of a solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly 992 according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, including a wall structure 1 104 made of a second material and including a layer 1106.
  • the framed wall panel (567) may comprise a horizontal hooking channel (589) defined between a pair of stacked components (1591 ) of the framed wall panel (567), the hooking channel (589) being configured for receiving at least one hooking bracket (591 ).
  • each hooking bracket (591 ) comprises a hooking portion (593) and hanging portion (595), the hooking portion (593) of the hooking bracket (591 ) being complementary in shape to that of the hooking channel (589), and the hooking channel (589) preferably comprises a groove (597) being shaped concave upwardly, as exemplified in Figure 139.
  • Figure 141 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly 1002 disposed along a clear story configuration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 142 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a top portion of the wall panel assembly 1002.
  • Figure 143 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of the wall panel assembly 1002.
  • Figure 144 is a fragmentary perspective view of a framed glass panel 1004 being provided with a dropdown cover 1006 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figure 145 is a bottom perspective of the framed glass panel 1004, the framed glass panel 1004 being now without a bottom cover 1008.
  • the wall panel system (301 ) comprises at least one other complementary wall panel (599) selected from the group consisting of glass post panel, solid panel, door post, metallic frame panel, stackable panel and clear story panel, so as to enable a variety of assemblies of different wall panels, as exemplified in the accompanying drawings.
  • the "butt-glazed panel” embodiment of the present invention may have the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) modular panels with a continuous base cover and ceiling cover; b) continuous cover and ceiling cover will be assembled on the job side; c) 3/8" tempered glass with a 1/8" chamber on vertical edge for perfect butt joint in 2-way, 3-way or 4-way installation; d) the height of base cover stays constant; e) height adjustment of about +/- 1 ", components travel inside the floor channel and base cover; f) height adjustment will be mechanical operating via power tools or manual (option 1 - gear box and counter threaded rod; option 2 - rotating, radial connected tubular gears; and option 3 - double shaft and gear box); g) adjustment will be accessible from both sides of the panel; h) carpet gripper/seismic floor plate assures consistent and accurate distance/spacing between adjacent panels; i) carpet gripper
  • the "carpet gripper/seismic floor attachment" embodiment of the present invention may have the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) all panels are secured to the floor channel with the threaded carpet gripper; b) holds dimension, keeps system from growing on the job side; and c) set screws are used as carpet grippers, but also to hold the floor channel in place (in seismic areas, the floor channel is fixed with a nut on the set screw and the plate will be bolted to the floor).
  • glass post panel may have the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) glass panels are modular unitized panels with a recessed base; b) glass panels accept 1/4" and 3/8" glass; c) glass panel frame consists of an aluminum or steel slotted post cladded with aluminum extrusions; d) panel to panel connection is achieved by hooking clips inserted into slotted standard punched along the vertical edges of the post; e) there will be a approx 3/8" reveal between panels; f) top distance channel 2.5" bottom distance channel 3"; g) height adjustment of about +/- 1", travelling inside the floor channel - glass is preferably held in place by a clamp secured to the frame; h) recessed base with incorporate spring-loaded dropdown cover concealing the height adjustment mechanism; i) spring-loaded dropdown cover pre-assembled in factory; and j) post and distance channels designed with a radius of about 4".
  • solid panel With respect to the "solid panel” embodiment of the present invention, it may have the following the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) solid panels are modular unitized panels with a recessed base; b) solid panels are stackable; c) solid panel frame is steel, with vertical slotting in the post; d) panel to panel connection by clip in steel slotting post; e) slotting in the post will also provide way of hanging of different kinds of accessories (i.e.
  • the "height adjustment assembly” embodiment of the present invention may have the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) height adjustment of about +/- 1 ", traveling inside the floor channel, clamp is screwed to the frame or is clamping 3/8" or 1/2" glass; b) height will be adjusted with a power tool from the side of the panel; c) a gear box assembly operates the counter-threaded rod which in turn operates the steel, cross-attached arms which are secured to the glass holding clamps; and d) the height adjustment is accessible from both sides.
  • the wall panel system and corresponding parts are preferably made of substantially rigid materials, such as metallic materials (aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), hardened polymers, composite materials, and/or the like, whereas other components thereof according to the present invention, in order to achieve the resulting advantages briefly discussed herein, may preferably be made of a suitably malleable and resilient material, such as a polymeric material (plastic, rubber, etc.), and/or the like, depending on the particular applications for which the wall panel system and resulting working space are intended for and the different parameters in cause, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
  • substantially rigid materials such as metallic materials (aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), hardened polymers, composite materials, and/or the like
  • other components thereof according to the present invention may preferably be made of a suitably malleable and resilient material, such as a polymeric material (plastic, rubber, etc.), and/or the like, depending on the particular applications for which the wall panel system and resulting working space are intended for and the different parameters in cause,
  • the wall panel system according to the present invention is an improvement over the prior art in that it provides a moveable non-progressive mountable and demountable wall panel system, particularly well suited for mounting frameless wall panels, such as butt-glazed wall panels, for example, in a very fast, easy, convenient, proper, systematic and cost-effective manner, thereby avoiding the corresponding drawbacks of the "stick-built" approach of conventional wall panel systems.
  • Figures 150-177 show features of a wall panel system 301 , according to some embodiments.
  • Figures 150-152 show components of a pre-assembled frameless wall panel 305, according to some embodiments.
  • the wall panel 305 includes various components similar to those previously described.
  • the pre-assembled frameless wall panel 305 includes a pair of spaced apart, top clamp assemblies (326) (shown in greater detail in Figure 151 ), a pair of ceiling tracks (327), each of which is configured to be secured to a corresponding one of the top clamp assemblies (326).
  • the pre-assembled frameless wall panel (305) also includes a wall panel (315), a pair of height adjustment assemblies (333) (shown in greater detail in Figure 152), and a bottom floor channel (331 ). While various components are shown provided in pairs, greater or fewer than two components are contemplated.
  • FIGS 153-155 show a sliding door frame (800) for use with the wall panel system (301 ).
  • a sliding door assembly e.g., such as the sliding door assembly (541 )
  • the sliding door frame (800) includes a first jamb (802), a second jamb (804), and a header (806) extending between the first and second jambs (802, 804).
  • the first and second jambs (802, 804) are mirror images of one another and thus, features of both jambs (802, 804) are described in associate with the first jamb (802).
  • Figure 154 is partial view of the door frame (800) in area 154-154 designated in Figure 153 and
  • Figure 155 is a top view of Figure 154, according to some embodiments.
  • the first jamb (802) includes a clamp assembly (810) for clamping an adjacent frameless panel (not shown) of the wall panel system (301 ) and an inner cover assembly (812) for presenting an aesthetically pleasing surface to a user of the system (301 ).
  • the clamp assembly (810) defines a receiving channel (813) for clamping onto a vertical edge of an adjacent, frameless panel, the clamp assembly (810) including a first portion (820) and a second portion (822), the first and second portions (820, 822) being configured to form a complementary fit to define the receiving channel (813).
  • the clamp assembly (810) also includes retention members (824, 826) configured to be secured in an opposing manner to the first and second portions (820, 822), respectively.
  • the cover assembly (812) optionally includes securing means for securing the cover assembly (812) to the clamp assembly (810).
  • the securing means is a gasket (830) received by the cover assembly (812) and the clamp assembly (810) for frictionally retaining the cover assembly (812) to the clamp assembly (810) as shown in Figure 155.
  • assembly of the wall panel system (301 ) includes securing the first and second portions (820, 822) on opposing sides of a vertical edge of an adjacent, frameless panel and securing the portions (820, 822) together using one or more fasteners (832) to secure the frameless panel (not shown) and associated portions of the system (301 ) to the first jamb (802).
  • the second jamb (804) is optionally secured to another frameless panel (not shown) of the system (301 ) and the header (806) is secured between the first and second jambs (802, 804).
  • a sliding door assembly e.g., such as the sliding door assembly (541 ) is operatively secured to header (806).
  • Figures 156-161 show additional features of the wall panel system (301 ) for further enhancing resistance of the system (301 ) against unwanted movement, such as that associated with seismic activity, for example.
  • Figures 156 and 157 show an upper bracket (900) secured to adjacent ceiling tracks (327A, 327B) (e.g., similar to the ceiling track (327)) and the ceiling rail (329), the upper bracket (900) reinforcing or otherwise enhancing resistance of the system (301 ) to unwanted movement.
  • the upper bracket (900) includes a first vertical leg (902) and a second vertical leg (904), the first vertical leg (902) being positioned above, and offset rearwardly from, the second vertical leg (904).
  • the first vertical leg (902) is also substantially narrower than the second vertical leg (904), according to some embodiments.
  • the first and second vertical legs (902, 904) include a plurality of apertures (906) for receiving fasteners, such as self-tapping screws (908) ( Figures 156 and 157).
  • the upper bracket (900) also described as an upper interconnector, is centrally positioned between the adjacent ceiling tracks (327A, 327B), the first vertical leg (902) is secured to the ceiling rail (329), and the second vertical leg (904) is secured to the adjacent ceiling tracks (327A, 327B) using the self-tapping screws (908).
  • the adjacent ceiling tracks (327A, 327B) of the system (301 ) are secured together and are also secured to the ceiling rail (329) to provide additional resistance to unwanted movement of the system (301 ).
  • Figures 160-162 show a lower bracket (930) that is adapted to be received within adjacent bottom floor channels (331 A, 331 B) and secured to a floor to enhance resistance of the system (301 ) against unwanted movement.
  • the lower bracket (930) is formed as an elongate piece of U-channel with relatively short sidewalls, the lower bracket (930) including two centrally located apertures (932).
  • the lower bracket (930) also described as a lower interconnector, is received within the adjacent, bottom floor channels (331 A, 331 B) and a fastener (not shown) such as a cement nail, is driven through the apertures (932) into the floor to help fasten the bottom floor channels (331A, 331 B) to the floor.
  • a fastener such as a cement nail
  • FIGS 163-167 show another height adjustment assembly (333), according to some embodiments.
  • the height adjustment assembly (333) includes a scissors-type height adjustment mechanism including a base (339), opposite first and second end caps (441 ,443) projecting from the base (339), and a height adjusting rod (445) being rotatively mounted about the end caps (441 ,443).
  • the height adjusting rod (445) has first and second threaded segments (447,449) each being oppositely threaded with respect to one another.
  • the height adjustment assembly (333) also includes first and second adjustment legs (451 ,453), the first adjustment leg (451 ) having an extremity pivotably mounted onto a runner component (455) threadedly engaged onto the first threaded segment (447) of the height adjusting rod (445) and a second extremity pitovably mounted onto a support edge (335).
  • the second adjustment leg (453) has an extremity pivotably mounted onto a runner component (457) threadedly engaged onto the second threaded segment (449) of the height adjusting rod (445) and a second extremity pitovably mounted onto the support edge (335), such that a rotation of the common height adjusting rod (445) along a first direction causes a raising of the support edge (335), and a rotation of said common height adjusting rod (445) along a second and opposite direction causes a lowering of the support edge (335).
  • the second extremities of the first and second adjustment legs (451 ,453) are pivotably mounted onto a bottom portion of the support edge (335) about a common pivot axis (459), as better shown in Figures 17, 18, 21 and 22.
  • the adjustment legs (451 ,453) optionally include recessed portions (451 A, 453A) for avoiding, or receiving, a portion of the height adjusting rod (445) when the adjustment legs (451 ,453) are drawn down into a lowered configuration.
  • Figures 165-167 demonstrate movement of the height adjustment assembly (333) between a retracted or collapsed state (FIG. 165), an intermediate state (FIG. 166) and an extended, or expanded state (FIG. 167).
  • Figures 168-177 show various features and components of a wall panel system (301 ) including a plurality of pre-assembled wall panels (305) similar to the pre- assembled wall panel (305) shown in Figure 150.
  • Figure 168 shows a front, perspective view of the wall panel system (301 ) including a plurality of adjacent pre-assembled wall panels (305), the plurality of wall panels (305) including a first pre-assembled wall panel (305A), a second preassembled wall panel (305B), and a third pre-assembled wall panel (305C).
  • the panels (305) include through holes (513) that are configured for use with a rail and tile system (950).
  • the rail and tile system (950) includes a plurality of rails (952) forming a support framework and a plurality of tiles (954) supported by the framework.
  • the tiles (954) are optionally secured to the rails (952) by fasteners, clips, brackets, adhesives or other securing means as desired.
  • Figure 169 shows rails (952) for supporting a tile (954) or tiles (954) formed of one or more pieces of fabric
  • Figure 170 shows rails (952) for supporting a tile (954) or tiles (954) formed of a veneer or laminate material
  • Figure 171 shows rails (952) for supporting a tile (954) or tiles (954) formed of laminated glass that can be used as a marker board, for example.
  • Figure 172 shows a back, perspective view of the system (301 ) with a second rail and tile system (950B) mounted to the back side of the system (301 ).
  • the rail and tile system (950B) is shown in Figure 172 with the tiles removed to show apertures (956B) in the rails (952B) for securing the rails to the panels (305A, 305B, 305C) using the through holes (513).
  • fasteners such as bolts and washers ( Figure 174) are threaded through the holes (513) to secure the rail and tile systems (950, 950B) in place on opposite sides of the panels (305A, 305B, 305C).
  • FIG. 168 wall panel accessories such as a shelf (960) or a table extension (962) are optionally secured (e.g., cantilevered) into the rails (952) or features (not shown) included in the tiles (954).
  • Figure 173 is an enlarged, cross- sectional view along line 173-173 in Figure 172 with the second rail and tile system (950B) removed for ease of illustration.
  • the shelf (960) is inserted into an opening in the rail (952) such that the shelf (960) is cantilevered to the rail (952).
  • one or more of the tiles (954) includes an opening or other features for receiving an electrical outlet assembly (964).
  • the electrical outlet assembly (964) includes any of a variety of low, standard, or high voltage outlet means, such as a 1 10V electrical outlet, a LAN receptacle, an RF cable receptacle, or others.
  • Figure 172 shows the electrical outlet assembly (964) from a rear view (as viewed through the glass of the panel (305B)), where Figure 175 is an enlarged view of area 175-175 of Figure 172.
  • the electrical outlet assembly (964) includes a bracket (966) that is secured to the tile (954) using fastening means, such as screws, for example.
  • the electrical outlet assembly (964) is optionally secured to a conduit feed assembly ( Figure 176) which is connected to an electrical source (e.g., 1 0V power source, a LAN connection, cable t.v., or other). If desired, the conduit feed assembly can be run down to the bottom cover (509) ( Figure 168) and through the bottom cover (509) to the electrical source.
  • the electrical outlet assembly (964) thereby provides an effective and readily assembled solution for deploying outlets with the system 301 .
  • Figures 176 and 177 show components of another electrical outlet assembly (970) that is configured to be mounted at the bottom of the system (301 ) adjacent the bottom floor channels (331 ).
  • the electrical outlet assembly (970) includes a first outlet (972), a second outlet (974), an electrical interconnect (976), a first mounting bracket (978), a second mounting bracket (980), a conduit feed assembly (982), and a modified bottom cover (984) that works similarly to bottom cover (509).
  • the first and second outlets (972, 974) are optionally electrically connected by electrical interconnect (976). As shown, the first and second outlets (972, 974) are configured as U.S. standard 1 10V outlets, although as mentioned with the electrical outlet assembly (964) any of a variety of outlet configurations are contemplated. In some embodiments, the first bracket (978) is configured to clip onto the first outlet (972) and the second bracket (980) is similarly configured to clip onto the second outlet (974).
  • the modified bottom cover (984) includes a first opening (990) for operatively exposing the first outlet (972) for a user and a second opening (992) for operatively exposing the second outlet (974) for the user.
  • the cover (984) also includes a first slot (996) for receiving a portion of the first bracket (978) in a snap fit relationship and a second slot (998) for receiving a portion of the second bracket (980) in a snap fit relationship and defines an upper channel (999) configured to receive the first and second outlets (972, 974), the electrical interconnect (976), the first and second mounting brackets (978, 980), and the conduit feed assembly (982).
  • Figure 177 is an end view showing the snap-fit, or clipped together relationship of the second bracket (980) and the bottom cover (984) with other portions of the assembly (970) removed for ease of illustration.
  • the second bracket (980) is snapped into the bottom cover (984) with a lower portion (1000) of the second bracket (980) protruding through the second slot (998) (hidden in Figure 177).
  • the bottom cover (984) is secured to one or more of the bottom channels (331 ) and the conduit feed assembly (982) is connected to an electrical source (e.g., 110V power source, a LAN connection, cable t.v., or others).
  • the electrical outlet assembly (970) thereby provides an effective and readily assembled solution for deploying low and/or high voltage outlets with the system (301 ).

Abstract

A wall panel of a moveable and demountable frameless wall panel system that is secured between a floor of a room and a ceiling rail secured to a ceiling of the room. The wall panel includes a frameless panel, an upper clamp assembly, a ceiling track configured to be removably inserted into the ceiling rail, a lower clamp assembly, a first height adjustment mechanism secured to the lower clamp assembly, a second height adjustment mechanism, and a bottom floor channel receiving the first height and second height adjustment mechanisms.

Description

MODULAR WALL SYSTEM
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to a wall panel system. More particularly, the present invention relates to a moveable non-progressive mountable and demountable wall panel system for butt-glazed wall panels.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Fixed wall systems, moveable wall systems, and non-progressive wall systems are very well known in the art.
[0003] Some problems associated with fixed wall systems are the inability to displace and/or move the fixed wall systems once they are mounted; the inability to readily install pass through components (wiring, etc.) after the fixed wall systems have been mounted; and the inability to readily change aspects and features of the fixed wall systems once they are installed. Furthermore, fixed wall systems are also disadvantageous because their installation is quite lengthy. For example, for conventional gyproc walls, one must first install supporting studs, then affix gyproc panels thereto, then plaster thereon, wait for drying of the plaster, sanding subsequently and then finishing the surfaces of the gyproc walls. It is well known in the art that the mounting of such fixed wall systems usually extends over several days and requires a great deal of manual labor, which is thus very inefficient and very cost ineffective.
[0004] Some of the problems associated with moveable wall systems are that, very often, their components are over-engineered (e.g. too heavy), different and specialized tooling is required for assembling such moveable wall systems, and the moveable wall systems generally comprise various different components which are not readily interchangeable. As a result of the above-mentioned, installation of such moveable wall systems is generally quite lengthy and cumbersome. Furthermore, it is well known in the art that such moveable wall systems, by virtue of their design, offer generally very poor sound proofing, light proofing and/or vibration proofing.
[0005] Some of the problems associated with non-progressive wall systems are the inability to independently change, move, and/or alter a particular component of the non-progressive wall system without affecting the other components operatively connected to said particular component. Indeed, by virtue of their design, non-progressive wall systems generally have several components which are intricately connected to one another and thus prevent one particular component thereof from being changed, moved, and/or altered without disturbing the other components of the non-progressive wall system. [0006] Furthermore, with several conventional wall panel systems, certain components thereof need to be anchored (penetrated, nailed, screwed, etc.) into the floor or the ceiling, which leads to substantial drawbacks, such as holes in the floor and/or corresponding carpet, damages to property, etc. Moreover, it is also known that in some jurisdictions, when components of wall panel systems are permanently affixed to the infrastructure of a building, they become the property of the building owner, which is very undesirable for the owners and/or users of such wall panel systems. It is also known that in large corporations, the different departments need to be restructured on a regular basis, therefore, leading to a frequent reorganization of office spaces, with associated inconveniences. Therefore, it would be very useful to have a prefabricated and modular wall panel construction system that could be assembled without being permanently affixed to an infrastructure of a building, and could be easily moveable and demountable, from one location to another, whether within the same building, or from one building to the next, without leaving any adverse or destructive effects behind.
[0007] Known to the Applicant are the following American documents which describe 5 different wall panel systems and accessories: 2,387,389; 2,394,443
Figure imgf000004_0001
6,336,247 B1 ; 6,349,516 B1 ; 6,405,781 B2; 6,493,995 B2; 6,530,181 B1 ; 6,571 ,519 B1 6,889,477 B1 ; 7,021 ,007 B2; 7,293,389 B2; 7,520,093 B2; 7,624,549 B2; 2002/0053166 A1 ; 2002/0088188 A1 ; 2002/0157335 A1 ; 2003/0014853 A1 ; 2004/0003556 A1 ; 2005/0000164 A1 ; 2006/0277850 A1 ; 2007/0017065 A1 ; and 2008/0202030 A1 .
[0008] Known to the Applicant are also the following foreign documents: CA
2,002,674; FR 1 ,450,017; FR 1 ,526,637 and GB 2, 171 ,135 A.
[0009] A movable and demountable wall panel system for framed wall panels, that is, substantially rectangular shaped wall panels comprising opposite top and bottom distance channels, and opposite side vertical posts, with outer covers, having been designed by the Applicant of the present case, is the one described in US patent No. 6,688,056 B2 granted on February 10, 2004, to VON HOYNINGEN HUENE et al. More particularly, this document describes a moveable and demountable wall panel system including a plurality of panels each having opposite top and bottom distance channels, opposite left and right vertical posts, a panel covering, a ceiling rail, and an articulating floor channel. The distance channels and vertical posts are affixed to one another by connecting studs in order to form a rectangular support frame of the panel. The articulating floor channel is operatively connected to a bottom portion of the rectangular support frame by left and right glide assemblies mounted into receiving channels of the left and right vertical posts respectively. The articulating floor channel is used for operatively securing the rectangular support frame of the panel to a ground surface. Each vertical post has at least one receiving lip extending along a direction substantially parallel to the vertical axis of the panel.
[0010] Despite several improvements in the field, when assembling office spaces using frameless butt-glazed wall panels, these office spaces are still built using a very old and conventional "stick-built" or "knock-down" approach. That is, one generally goes on site, takes the different measurements, including floor and/or ceiling deviations, where the office space is to be assembled, will then generally manufacture corresponding glass panels of different heights and widths in order to accommodate or compensate for these different particular deviations, and will assemble the office space in a very progressive manner, on site. By assigning each specific glass panel of different dimensions to a corresponding place where it is assigned to, and afterward adjusting positioning, height and vertical displacement of each one of said different types of glass panels in a manual manner, using a plurality of shimmies that are inserted accordingly under each of said glass panels in an attempt to have an overall uniform wall panel assembly, and compensate for possible floor and/or ceiling deviations. Obviously, this approach is not only very long, but quite cumbersome from a logistical point of view, as well as being very labor intensive, and is not very efficient when having to assemble several office spaces in large corporations.
[0011] None of the above-mentioned patents seem to disclose or even suggest a movable non-progressive mountable and demountable wall panel system which is designed to assemble "frameless" butt-glazed wall panels in a very fast, easy, convenient, proper, systematic and cost-effective manner, thereby avoiding the corresponding drawbacks of the "stick-built" approach of conventional wall panel systems. [0012] Hence, in light of the aforementioned, there is a need for an improved system which, by virtue of its design and components, would be able to overcome or at least minimize some of the aforementioned prior art problems.
SUMMARY
[0013] Some embodiments relate to a wall panel of a moveable and demountable frameless wall panel system that is secured between a floor of a room and a ceiling rail secured to a ceiling of the room. The wall panel includes a frameless panel, an upper clamp assembly, a ceiling track configured to be removably inserted into the ceiling rail, a lower clamp assembly, a first height adjustment mechanism secured to the lower clamp assembly, a second height adjustment mechanism, and a bottom floor channel receiving the first height and second height adjustment mechanisms.
[0014] Some embodiments relate to moveable and demountable wall panel systems for defining an office space with a plurality of wall panels disposable in a substantially upright manner between a floor and a ceiling each having respectively a series of uppermost and lowermost deviations, each wall panel having a vertical axis and a horizontal axis, and comprising: at least one prefabricated frameless panel, each panel having a given height defined between top and bottom edges, and a given width defined between left and right side edges, the top edge of each panel being provided with a ceiling track configured for being removably insertable into a corresponding ceiling rail extending along the ceiling and delimiting the office space;
[0015] a bottom floor channel associated with each corresponding panel and being configured for operatively resting against the floor opposite to the ceiling rail extending along the ceiling;
[0016] integrated first and second power-drivable height adjustment assemblies associated with each panel and insertable into a corresponding bottom floor channel, each height adjustment assembly comprising a support edge for operatively supporting a bottom portion of each panel, each height adjustment assembly being selectively operable as to be adjustably raised or lowered, thereby allowing a vertical height adjustment of each panel and a rotational angle adjustment thereof; and
[0017] at least one connecting plate for removably connecting a pair of bottom floor channels, each connector and bottom channel being positioned, shaped and sized with respect to one another for ensuring that the side edges of a pair of neighboring prefabricated frameless panels cooperate with one another in order to define the office space.
[0018] Some embodiments provide a prefabricated, modular and frameless butt- glazed wall panel construction system that can be moveable and demountable, from one location to another, without a "stickbuilt" approach, and without leaving any adverse or destructive effects behind.
[0019] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of using the above-mentioned wall panel system and/or components thereof.
[0020] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of installing the above-mentioned wall panel system and/or components thereof.
[0021] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an office space having been defined with the above-mentioned wall panel system and/or components thereof. According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kit with corresponding components for assembling the above-mentioned office space.
[0022] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of assembling components of the above-mentioned kit. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is also provided a method of doing business with the above-mentioned wall panel system, kit and/or corresponding method(s).
[0023] The objects, advantages and other features of the present invention will become more apparent upon reading of the following non-restrictive description of preferred embodiments thereof, given for the purpose of exemplification only, with reference to the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an office space assembly having been assembled with a wall panel system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the office space assembly being shown with butt-glazed wall panels and a pair of corresponding doors.
[0025] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a butt-glazed frameless wall panel cooperating with a ceiling rail according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] Figure 3 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 2.
[0027] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of a top portion of what is shown in Figure 3.
[0028] Figure 5 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in Figure
3.
[0029] Figure 6 is a partial top perspective view of an assembly of a pair of butt- glazed wall panels disposed along a 180°-angle connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown without a ceiling cover so as to better illustrate the ceiling track of each wall panel. [0030] Figure 7 is a partial bottom perspective view of an assembly of a pair of butt-glazed wall panels disposed along a 180°-angle connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown without a bottom cover so as to better illustrate the bottom channel and height adjustment assemblies of each wall panel, as well as the connecting plate interconnecting extremities of a pair of bottom channels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0031] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 7.
[0032] Figure 9 is a partial bottom perspective view of an assembly of a pair of butt-glazed wall panels disposed along a 90°-angle connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown without bottom covers so as to better illustrate the bottom channel and height adjustment assemblies of each wall panel, as well as the connecting plate interconnecting extremities of a pair of bottom channels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0033] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 9.
[0034] Figure 1 1 is a partial top perspective view of an assembly of butt-glazed wall panels disposed along a 3-way connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown with corresponding ceiling covers.
[0035] Figure 12 is a partial bottom perspective view of an assembly of butt- glazed wall panels disposed along a 3-way connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown with corresponding bottom covers.
[0036] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 12.
[0037] Figure 14 is a partial bottom perspective view of a butt-glazed wall panel assembly disposed along a three-way connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the assembly being shown with corresponding bottom covers.
[0038] Figure 15 is a side elevational view of a butt-glazed wall panel assembly disposed along a three-way connection according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the wall panel assembly being shown with top and bottom covers.
[0039] Figure 16 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
Figure 15.
[0040] Figure 17 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0041] Figure 18 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 17.
[0042] Figure 19 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 17. [0043] Figure 20 is a front elevational view of what is shown in Figure 17.
[0044] Figure 21 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 18, the height adjustment assembly being now shown in a raised configuration.
[0045] Figure 22 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 21 , the height adjustment assembly being now shown in a lowered configuration.
[0046] Figure 23 is a perspective view of a height adjusting rod provided with a pair of distal bushings according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0047] Figure 24 is a side elevational view of the height adjusting rod shown in
Figure 23.
[0048] Figure 25 is a front plan view of what is shown in Figure 24.
[0049] Figure 26 is a side elevational view of one of the bushings shown in Figure
23.
[0050] Figure 27 is a rear elevational view of what is shown in Figure 26.
[0051] Figure 28 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the height adjustment assembly being shown in a lowered configuration.
[0052] Figure 29 is another perspective view of what is shown in Figure 28, the height adjustment assembly being now shown with certain parts having been removed so as to better illustrate inner components of the height adjustment assembly.
[0053] Figure 30 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 28, the height adjustment assembly being now shown in a raised configuration.
[0054] Figure 31 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 30.
[0055] Figure 32 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 30, the height adjustment assembly being now shown in a lowered configuration.
[0056] Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 32.
[0057] Figure 34 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0058] Figure 35 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 34.
[0059] Figure 36 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 34.
[0060] Figure 37 is a side elevational view of some of the components shown in
Figure 36.
[0061] Figure 38 is a front elevational view of one of the components shown in
Figure 37.
[0062] Figure 39 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 38.
[0063] Figure 40 is a perspective view of one of the components shown in Figure
37. [0064] Figure 41 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the height adjustment assembly being shown with certain components having been removed therefrom so as to better illustrate inner components of the height adjustment assembly.
[0065] Figure 42 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 41 .
[0066] Figure 43 is a perspective view of a connecting plate provided with four projections and an anchoring hole about the center point according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0067] Figure 44 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 43.
[0068] Figure 45 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 43.
[0069] Figure 46 is another perspective view of what is shown in Figure 43, the projections of the connecting plate being now provided with corresponding nuts, and the connecting plate being further provided with a threaded anchor extending downwardly from a center point of the connecting plate according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0070] Figure 47 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 46.
[0071] Figure 48 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 46.
[0072] Figure 49 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly provided with butt-glazed distraction markers according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0073] Figure 50 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 49.
[0074] Figure 51 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 49.
[0075] Figure 52 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 50.
[0076] Figure 53 is a perspective view of a complementary accessory assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0077] Figure 54 is an exploded view of the component shown in Figure 53.
[0078] Figure 55 is a side view of what is shown in Figure 53.
[0079] Figure 56 is a side view of what is shown in Figure 54.
[0080] Figure 57 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly being provided with butt-glazed snap-on wood shelves according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0081] Figure 58 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 57.
[0082] Figure 59 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 58.
[0083] Figure 60 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 58.
[0084] Figure 61 is a perspective view of a complementary accessory assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0085] Figure 62 is an exploded view of the components shown in Figure 61 . [0086] Figure 63 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 61 .
[0087] Figure 64 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 62.
[0088] Figure 65 is a partial view of a wood shell provided with a hooking plate according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0089] Figure 66 is a perspective view of the hooking plate shown in Figure 65.
[0090] Figure 67 is a front plan view of what is shown in Figure 66.
[0091] Figure 68 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly being provided with butt-glazed snap-on glass shells according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0092] Figure 69 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 68.
[0093] Figure 70 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 68.
[0094] Figure 71 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 69.
[0095] Figure 72 is a perspective view of a complementary accessory assembly according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0096] Figure 73 is an exploded view of the component shown in Figure 72.
[0097] Figure 74 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 72.
[0098] Figure 75 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 73.
[0099] Figure 76 is a side elevational view of a sliding door assembly operatively mounted onto a ceiling track and comprising a sliding wood door according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00100] Figure 77 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 76.
[00101] Figure 78 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 76.
[00102] Figure 79 is a perspective view of a sliding door mounting bracket according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00103] Figure 80 is a partial top view of a sliding door assembly operatively mounted onto a corresponding ceiling track and ceiling rail according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, some of the components being shown in an exploded relationship, including sliding door mounting bracket and wood door.
[00104] Figure 81 is a side elevational view of a sliding door hardware being shown in an exploded relationship with a corresponding sliding door mounting bracket according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00105] Figure 82 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 78.
[00106] Figure 83 is a perspective view of what is shown in Figure 76.
[00107] Figure 84 is a bottom perspective view of a portion of what is shown in
Figure 83. [00108] Figure 85 is a perspective view of the bottom guide plug shown in Figure 84.
[00109] Figure 86 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 84.
[001 10] Figure 87 is a side elevational view of a sliding door assembly operatively mounted onto a ceiling track and ceiling rail and comprising a sliding glass door according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[001 11] Figure 88 is a schematic side view of what is shown in Figure 87.
[001 12] Figure 89 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 88.
[001 13] Figure 90 is a partial top perspective view of a sliding door assembly operatively mounted onto a corresponding ceiling track and ceiling rail and comprising a sliding glass door according to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, some of the components shown in an exploded relationship with respect to others so as to namely better illustrate a corresponding glass clamp according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[001 14] Figure 91 is a side elevational view of a sliding door hardware being shown in an exploded relationship with respect to a corresponding glass clamp according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[001 15] Figure 92 is a top plan view of a rightmost portion of what is shown in Figure 91 .
[001 16] Figure 93 is a partial side elevational view of a rightmost portion of what is shown in Figure 91.
[001 17] Figure 94 is a perspective view of the upper glass clamp shown in Figure 90, the upper glass clamp being shown provided with a height adjustment fastener.
[001 18] Figure 95 is a front elevational view of what is shown in Figure 94.
[001 19] Figure 96 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 94.
[00120] Figure 97 is another side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 94.
[00121] Figure 98 is a partial bottom perspective view of a glass sliding door assembly, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, some of the components being shown in an exploded relationship with respect to others so as to better illustrate a bottom glass clamp according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00122] Figure 99 is a perspective view of a bottom glass clamp shown in Figure
98.
[00123] Figure 100 is a front elevational view of what is shown in Figure 99.
[00124] Figure 101 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 99. [00125] Figure 102 is a side elevational view of a pair of glass post panels being assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00126] Figure 103 is an enlarged view of a top portion of what is shown in Figure
102.
[00127] Figure 104 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
Figure 102.
[00128] Figure 105 is a bottom plan view of a pair of glass post panels being assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00129] Figure 106 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 105.
[00130] Figure 107 is a partial top view of a three-way glass post panel assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00131] Figure 108 is a partial bottom view of a three-way glass post panel assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00132] Figure 109 is a side elevational view of a three-way glass post panel assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
[00133] Figure 1 10 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
Figure 109.
[00134] Figure 1 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of a glass post panel three-way assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00135] Figure 1 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of what is shown in Figure 1 1 1.
[00136] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a wall panel assembly including a solid panel and a glass post panel assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00137] Figure 14 is an enlarged view of a top portion of what is shown in Figure 1 13.
[00138] Figure 1 15 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in Figure 1 13.
[00139] Figure 1 16 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 1 13.
[00140] Figure 1 17 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
Figure 1 16.
[00141] Figure 1 18 is a perspective view of a wall panel assembly including a door post according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00142] Figure 1 19 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 1 18. [00143] Figure 120 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly comprising two solid panels assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00144] Figure 121 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in
Figure 120, an outer shell of one of the solid panels having been removed so as to better illustrate inner components of the assembly.
[00145] Figure 122 is a perspective view of a post connection clip according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00146] Figure 123 is a side elevational view of what is shown in Figure 122.
[00147] Figure 124 is a top plan view of what is shown in Figure 122.
[00148] Figure 125 is a side elevational view of a solid panel metallic frame according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the solid panel metallic frame being shown with an adjustable bottom cover.
[00149] Figure 126 is a side view of what is shown in Figure 125.
[00150] Figure 127 is a perspective view of an intermediate distance channel shown in an exploded relationship with a vertical post of a solid panel metallic frame according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00151] Figure 128 is a cross-sectional view of an assembled configuration of what is shown in Figure 127.
[00152] Figure 129 is a side elevational view of a solid panel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00153] Figure 130 is a partial enlarged view of some of the components of a solid wall panel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, some of the components being shown in an exploded relationship.
[00154] Figure 131 is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a solid wall panel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00155] Figure 132 is a perspective view of what is shown in Figure 131.
[00156] Figure 133 is a perspective view of a solid panel metallic shell hooking assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00157] Figure 134 is a cross-sectional view of what is shown in Figure 133.
[00158] Figure 135 is a cross-sectional view of a solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00159] Figure 136 is a cross-sectional view of a solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00160] Figure 137 is a partial perspective view of a wall panel being provided with hooking channels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [00161] Figure 138 is an exploded view of what is shown in Figure 137.
[00162] Figure 139 is a schematic representation of a hooking bracket cooperating with a horizontal hooking channel of a wall panel according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00163] Figure 140 is a partial view of a wall panel being provided with a pair of hooking brackets, one of said hooking brackets being shown in a hooked configuration within the horizontal hooking channel, and the hooking bracket being shown in intermediate configuration.
[00164] Figure 141 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly disposed along a clear story configuration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00165] Figure 142 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a top portion of what is shown in Figure 141 .
[00166] Figure 143 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of what is shown in Figure 141.
[00167] Figure 144 is a fragmentary perspective view of a framed glass panel being provided with a dropdown cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00168] Figure 145 is a bottom perspective of what is shown in Figure 144, the framed glass panel being now without a bottom cover.
[00169] Figure 146 is a side view of a framed wall panel being provided with a spring-loaded dropdown cover according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00170] Figure 147 is a cross-sectional view of a framed wall panel being provided with a spring-loaded dropdown cover according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00171] Figures 148 and 149 are perspective views showing a butt-glazed frameless wall panel system during installation according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00172] Figure 150 is an exploded view of a pre-assembled frameless wall panel according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00173] Figure 151 is a perspective view of an upper clamp assembly of the pre- assembled wall panel of Figure 150.
[00174] Figure 152 is a perspective view of a height adjustment assembly of the pre-assembled wall panel of Figure 150.
[00175] Figure 153 is a perspective view of a door frame according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. [00176] Figure 154 is an enlarged view of area 154-154 of Figure 153.
[00177] Figure 155 is a top view of the enlarged area of Figure 149.
[00178] Figure 156 is an enlarged view showing top portions of adjacent frameless, butt-glazed wall panels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00179] Figure 157 is a sectional view taken along line 157-157 of Figure 156.
[00180] Figure 158 is a front view of an upper interconnect of Figure 157 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00181] Figure 159 is a side view of the upper interconnect of Figure 158 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00182] Figure 160 is an enlarged view showing lower portions of adjacent frameless, butt-glazed wall panels according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00183] Figure 161 is a top view of the lower interconnect of Figure 160 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00184] Figure 162 is a side view of the lower interconnect of Figure 161 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00185] Figures 163-167 show a height adjustment assembly, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00186] Figure 168 shows a frameless wall panel system, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[00187] Figure 169-171 show rail and tile systems usable with the wall panel system of Figure 168.
[00188] Figure 172 shows a back view of the wall panel system of Figure 168.
[00189] Figure 173 is a sectional view along line 173-173 of Figure 168.
[00190] Figures 174 and 175 are enlarged views of portions of Figure 172.
[00191] Figures 176 and 177 show components of an electrical outlet assembly of the wall panel system of Figure 168, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
DETAI LED DESCRIPTION
[00192] In the following description, the same numerical references refer to similar elements. The embodiments, geometrical configurations, materials mentioned and/or dimensions shown in the figures or described in the present description are preferred embodiments only, given for exemplification purposes only.
[00193] Moreover, although the present invention as exemplified hereinafter was primarily designed for wall systems intended in work environments, for defining office spaces, etc., it could be used with other objects and for other purposes, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. For this reason, expressions such as "work", "office", "space", "wall", "panel" and any other references and/or other expressions equivalent thereto should not be taken as to limit the scope of the present invention and include all other objects and all other applications with which the present invention could be used and may be useful.
[00194] Moreover, in the context of the present invention, the expressions "system", "kit", "set", "assembly", "product" and "device", as well as any other equivalent expressions and/or compounds word thereof known in the art will be used interchangeably, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. This applies also for any other mutually equivalent expressions, such as, for example: a) "mount", "assemble", "define", "build", "erect", etc.; b) "wall", "panel", etc.; c) "office", "work space", "environment", "structure", "enclosure", etc.; d) "rotating", "driving", "displacing", "moving", "supporting", "conveying" etc.; e) "interchangeable", "modular", "progressive", etc.; f) "enable", "allow", "permit", etc.; g) "fastening", "securing", "attaching", "anchoring", "adjusting", "positioning", etc.; h) "hole", "bore", "slot", "slit", "groove", "cavity", etc.; i) "rotating", "pivoting", "turning", "rolling", etc.; j) "ceiling", "upper, "top", etc.; k) "floor", "lower, "bottom", etc.; k) "glass", "laminate", "panel", "gypsum", "board", etc.; I) "positioning", "spacing", "locating", "arranging", "disposing", etc.; m) "adjacent", "neighbouring", "sequential", etc.; n) "components", "parts", "elements", etc.; as well as for any other mutually equivalent expressions, pertaining to the aforementioned expressions and/or to any other structural and/or functional aspects of the present invention, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art.
[00195] Furthermore, in the context of the present description, it will be considered that expressions such as "connected" and "connectable", or "mounted" and "mountable", may be interchangeable, in that the present invention also relates to a kit with corresponding components for assembling a resulting fully assembled office space.
[00196] Moreover, in the context of the present description, it is also important to make the distinction between a "framed" wall panel which typically consists of a substantially rectangular shape, and comprises opposite top and bottom distance channels, and opposite left and right vertical posts, which make the "frame" of the framed wall panel, and a "frameless" wall panel, which is a wall panel deprived of such distance channels and vertical posts (e.g. a straightforward glass panel not having a frame around it, etc.), as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
[00197] In addition, although the preferred embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings may comprise various components, and although the preferred embodiment of the wall panel system as shown consists of certain geometrical configurations as explained and illustrated herein, not all of these components and geometries are essential to the invention and thus should not be taken in their restrictive sense, i.e. should not be taken as to limit the scope of the present invention. It is to be understood, as also apparent to a person skilled in the art, that other suitable components and cooperation thereinbetween, as well as other suitable geometrical configurations may be used for the wall panel system and corresponding components according to the present invention, as will be briefly explained hereinafter and as can be easily inferred herefrom by a person skilled in the art, without departing from the scope of the invention.
[00198] List of numerical references for some of the corresponding preferred components illustrated in the accompanying drawings:
301. wall panel system
303. office space
305. wall panel
307. floor
309. ceiling
31 1. vertical axis
313. horizontal axis
315. wall panel
317. height
319. top edge
321. bottom edge
323. width
325. side edge
325a. left side edge
325b. right side edge
326. top clamp assembly
327. ceiling track
329. ceiling rail
331. bottom floor channel
333. height adjustment assembly
334. first vertical member
335. support edge
336. second vertical member
337. connecting plate
338. third vertical member
339. base 340. fourth vertical member
441. first end cap
441 a. first end cap component (of first end cap 441 )
441 b. second end cap component (of first end cap 441 )
443. second end cap
443a. first end cap component (of second end cap 443)
443b. second end cap component (of second end cap 443)
445. height adjusting rod
447. first threaded segment
449. second threaded segment
451. first adjustment leg
451 a. recessed portion
452. second extremity
452a. first extremity
453a. recessed portion
453. second adjustment leg
455. runner component
457. runner component
459. pivot axis
461. first bushing
463. second bushing
465. fastener
466. worm gear
466a. worm gear
467. socket
469. first clamp
471. second clamp
472. lower clamp assembly
473. gasket location
475. connector
477. notch
479. bushing
481. longitudinal axis
483. center point
485. projection
487. hole
489. nut 491. setscrew
493. hole
495. pointed tip
497. anchoring hole
499. anchor
501. projecting element
503. extremity (of projecting element)
505. longitudinal groove
507. ceiling cover
509. bottom cover
51 1. gasket
513. through-hole
515. complementary accessory
517. bushing
517b. bushing
519b. first threaded stud
521 b. second threaded stud
519. first threaded stud
521. second threaded stud
523. washer
525. distraction marker
527. snap-on wood shell
529. hooking knob
531. hanging plate
533. hanging hook
535. hole
537. snap-on glass shell
539. stand-off stud
541. sliding door assembly
543. sliding door
545. sliding door hardware
547. sliding door mounting bracket
549. bottom guide plug
551. bottom floor seal
551 a. spring
553. sliding glass door
555. glass clamp 555a. upper glass clamp
555b. bottom glass clamp
557. height adjustment fastener
559. bottom floor seal
561. gasket
563. tightening assembly
565. soft-top mechanism
567. framed wall panel
569. bottom distance channel
571. dropdown cover
573. spring
575. vertical post
577. post connection clip
579. slot
581. intermediate distance channel
583. outer covering (or metallic shell)
585. inner hanging component
587. stiffening component
589. hooking channel
591. hooking bracket
593. hooking portion
595. hanging portion
597. groove
599. complementary wall panel
800. sliding door frame
802. first jamb
804. second jamb
806. header
810. clamp assembly
812. cover assembly
813. receiving channel
820. first portion
822. second portion
900. upper bracket
902. first vertical leg
904. second vertical leg
906. apertures 908. self-tapping screws
930. lower bracket
932. apertures
950. glass post panel
952. three way glass post panel assembly
954. glass post three way panel assembly
956. wall panel assembly
980. wall panel assembly
982. door post
990. solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly
992. solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly
1002. wall panel assembly
1004 framed glass panel
1006. dropdown cover
1008. bottom cover
1010. framed wall panel
1014. framed wall panel
1102. wall structure
1104. wall structure
1106. layer
1120. nut
1120a. nut
1202. vertical shaft
1204. vertical shaft
1591. stacked components
[00199] By virtue of its design and its components, the present wall panel system is a moveable non-progressive mountable and demountable wall panel system, particularly well suited for mounting frameless wall panels, such as butt-glazed wall panels, for example, in a very quick, easy and systematic manner, something that is not possible with conventional wall panel systems.
[00200] Indeed, the present invention is the next and innovative generation of wall panel systems, being a considerable improvement over other wall panel systems, such as, for example, the one designed by the Applicant of the present case, and described in US patent No. 6,688,056 B2 granted on February 10th, 2004, to VON HOYNINGEN HUENE et al., the content of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[00201] Broadly described, the wall panel system (301 ) according to the preferred embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings, is a moveable and demountable wall panel system (301 ) for defining an office space (303) with a plurality of wall panels (305) disposable in a substantially upright manner between a floor (307) and a ceiling (309) each having respectively a series of uppermost and lowermost deviations, each wall panel (305) having a vertical axis (31 1 ) and a horizontal axis (313), and comprising:
[00202] at least one prefabricated frameless panel (315), each panel (315) having a given height (317) defined between top and bottom edges (319,321 ), and a given width (323) defined between left and right side edges (325a, 325b), a pair of top clamp assemblies (326) secured to the top edge (319) of each panel (305) such that the top edge (310) is provided with a ceiling track (327) configured for being removably insertable into a corresponding ceiling rail (329) extending along the ceiling (309) and delimiting the office space (303);
[00203] a bottom floor channel (331 ) associated with each corresponding panel (315) and being configured for operatively resting against the floor (307) opposite to the ceiling rail (329) extending along the ceiling (309);
[00204] integrated first and second power-drivable height adjustment assemblies (333) associated with each panel (315) and insertable into a corresponding bottom floor channel (331 ), each height adjustment assembly (333) comprising a support edge (335) for operatively supporting a bottom portion of each panel (315), each height adjustment assembly (333) being selectively operable as to be adjustably raised or lowered, thereby allowing a vertical height adjustment of each panel (315) and a rotational angle adjustment thereof by virtue of a pivot axis (459), as illustrated for example in Figure 18; and
[00205] at least one connecting plate (337) for removably connecting a pair of bottom floor channels (331 ), each connecting plate (337) and bottom floor channel (331 ) being positioned, shaped and sized with respect to one another for ensuring that the side edges (325) of a pair of neighboring prefabricated frameless panels (315) cooperate with one another in order to define the office space (303). An example of a resulting office space (303) is shown in Figure 1.
[00206] According to a first preferred embodiment of the invention, and as better shown in Figures 2-27, each height adjustment assembly (333) may comprise a scissors- type height adjustment mechanism including: a) a base (339); b) opposite first and second end caps (441 ,443) projecting from the base (339); c) a height adjusting rod (445) being rotatively mounted about the end caps (441 ,443), the height adjusting rod (445) having first and second threaded segments (447,449) each being oppositely threaded with respect to one another; and d) first and second adjustment legs (451 ,453), the first adjustment leg (451 ) having a first extremity (452a) pivotably mounted onto a runner component (455) threadedly engaged onto the first threaded segment (447) of the height adjusting rod (445) and a second extremity (452) pivotably mounted onto the support edge (335), and the second adjustment leg (453) having a first extremity (452a) pivotably mounted onto a runner component (457) threadedly engaged onto the second threaded segment (449) of the height adjusting rod (445) and a second extremity (452) pivotably mounted onto the support edge (335), such that a rotation of the common height adjusting rod (445) along a first direction causes a raising of the support edge (335), and a rotation of said common height adjusting rod (445) along a second and opposite direction causes a lowering of the support edge (335).
[00207] Preferably, the second extremities 452 of the first and second adjustment legs (451 ,453) are pivotably mounted onto a bottom portion of the support edge (335) about a common pivot axis (459), as better shown in Figures 17, 18, 21 and 22.
[00208] Preferably also, the adjustment legs (451 ,453) comprise recessed portions (451 a,453a) for avoiding the height adjusting rod (445) when the adjustment legs (451 ,453) are drawn down into a lowered configuration, as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 17, 18 and 22.
[00209] The height adjusting rod (445) can be manufactured in a great number of ways, but according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, it comprises first and second separate rod components being provided with the first and second threaded segments (447,449) respectively, the first rod component comprising an extremity with a male component being securely insertable into a female component of a corresponding extremity of the second rod component , as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 22-25.
[00210] Referring to Figures 17-27, it is shown how the height adjusting rod (445) can be rotatively mounted about first and second bushings (461 ,463) provided on the first and second end caps (441 ,443) respectively, although other suitable mounting methods may be used according to the present invention. Figure 20 provides an illustration of the first bushing (461 ), for example, while Figure 17 provides an illustration of the second bushing 461 .
[00211] According to a preferred embodiment, each end cap (441 ,443) comprises a first end cap component (441 a, 443a) being removably connectable via at least one corresponding fastener (465) onto a second end cap component (441 b, 443b) being fixed to the base (339) of the height adjustment assembly (333), as can be easily understood from Figures 17 and 20.
[00212] As also shown in Figure 20, at least one distal extremity of the height adjusting rod (445) is provided with a socket (467) for receiving a corresponding insert of a driving tool, but preferably, both extremities of the height adjusting rod (445) are provided with a socket (467) for receiving a corresponding insert of a driving tool, so as to namely enable to operate the height adjustment assembly (333) from both sides thereof.
[00213] Preferably, and as can be easily understood from Figures 3-22, each socket (467), height adjusting rod (445) and support edge (335) of each height adjustment assembly (333) lie substantially in a same vertical plane, under a corresponding wall panel (305,315).
[00214] According to another preferred aspect of the present invention, and as also shown for example in Figures 17 and 19, each height adjustment assembly (333) comprises opposite first and second clamps (469,471 ) to define a lower clamp assembly
(472) for clamping a bottom portion of a corresponding wall panel (315). Preferably, inner surfaces of the first and second clamps (469,471 ) are provided with a gasket at location
(473) , as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 6, 7 and 17.
[00215] As better shown in Figures 17-22, each height adjustment assembly (333) comprises at least one connector (475) extending between the first and second clamps (469,471 ). Preferably, each connector (475) is a clamp screw being configured with respect to the first and second clamps (469,471 ) for urging said clamps (469,471 ) towards one another via a corresponding rotation of the clamp screw. Each connector (475) may be provided with a bushing (479), and in such a case, the bushing is preferably a nylon bushing (479), although other suitable components and materials may be used according to the present invention.
[00216] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the bottom edge of each prefabricated frameless panel (315) is provided with at least one positioning notch (477) for cooperating with a corresponding connector (475), which is part of the clamp assembly (472). Each notch (477) is preferably prefabricated onto each panel (315) in a precise manner using an appropriate method. While the notch(es) (477) are not visible, for example, in Figures 7 and 9, an embodiment of the notch (477) can be seen in Figure 150. Among other advantages, the presence of such positioning notches (477) enable to easily and precisely place each panel (315) onto a corresponding pair of height adjustment assemblies (333), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 7 and 9, for example. In this regard, each height adjustment assembly (333) is preferably made symmetrical along a longitudinal axis (481 ) thereof.
[00217] According to another preferred aspect of the present invention, each height adjustment assembly (333) is a power-drivable height adjustment assembly (333) being selectively adjustable via a power drill through a corresponding socket (467) of the height adjustment assembly (333). The socket (467) of the height adjustment assembly (333) may extend in a substantially parallel relationship with respect to the support edge (335) thereof, as explained earlier, and as exemplified in Figures 17-22. Alternatively, the socket (467) of the height adjustment assembly (333) may extend in a substantially traverse relationship with respect to the support edge (335) thereof.
[00218] Obviously, various other types of suitable height adjustment assemblies
(333) and cooperations with remaining components of the present wall panel system (301 ) may be used according to the present invention, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. As way of an example, reference is made to Figures 28-33, among various alternatives, there is shown a telescopic height adjustment assembly (333) including a telescoping screw-type height adjustment mechanism the adjustment mechanism including a first substantially vertical member (334) that is cylindrical in shape and has inner threads and outer threads, a second substantially vertical member (336) that is cylindrical in shape and has inner and outer threads, and a third substantially vertical member (338) that is cylindrical in shape and has inner and outer threads. The third vertical member (338) is telescopically received in the second vertical member (336) and the second vertical member (336) is telescopically received in the first vertical member
(334) . If desired, greater or fewer telescoping members (e.g., a fourth vertical member (340) telescopically received in the third vertical member 338) are provided. Actuation of the adjustment mechanism (e.g., using a worm gear) includes rotating the first, second, and third members (334,336,338) relative to one another to telescopically extend the third member (338) from the second member (336) and the second member (336) from the first member (334).
[00219] In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 34-42, the system (301 ) includes a double-shaft height adjustment assembly (333) including a screw-type height adjustment mechanism. As illustrated, the double-shaft height adjustment assembly (333) includes a first vertical shaft 1202 extending upwards from a base 339 and a second vertical shaft 1204 extending upwards from a base 339. The first vertical shaft 1202 and the second vertical shaft may be rotated by rotating the worm gear 467. The first vertical shaft 1202 can engage a first nut 1120a, which is disposed within the second clamp 471 while the second vertical shaft 1204 can engage a second nut 1 120, which is disposed within the first clamp 469. As seen, the nuts 1 120, 1120a are disposed against rotation within the first clamp 469 and the second clamp 471 , respectively, and thus rotation of the first and second vertical shafts 1202, 1204 can cause the clamps 469, 471 to move vertically in response to rotation of the worm gear 467.
[00220] Preferably, each prefabricated frameless panel (315), each bottom floor channel (331 ) and each height adjustment assembly (333) associated with each wall panel (305) are delivered on site in a "pre-assembled" manner, prior to the assembling of the wall panels (305,315) together on site in order to define the office space (303), in order to facilitating and expedite installation. It should also be understood that according to some embodiments each frameless panel (315) is further pre-assembled with each top clamp assembly (326), and each ceiling track (327) associated with each wall panel (305) in a "pre-assembled" manner. In other words, the wall panels (305) are provided on site for installation with the bottom floor channels (331 ), height adjustment assemblies (333), top clamp assemblies (326), and ceiling tracks (327) pre-attached, or otherwise pre- assembled to the frameless panels (315).
[00221] According to another preferred aspect of the present invention, and as better shown in Figures 43-48, each connecting plate (337) is a non-invasive connecting plate (337) having a center point (483). By "non-invasive", it is meant that the connecting plate (337) need not be anchored (penetrated, nailed, screwed, etc.) onto the floor, except in areas subject to earthquakes, in which case, legislation may require a corresponding anchoring to the floor, that is why the present connecting plate (337) may also come in a "seismic" version, as explained hereinbelow.
[00222] Preferably, each connecting plate (337) comprises a plurality of projections (485) disposed about the center point (483), each projection (485) being positioned, shaped and sized for receiving a corresponding positioning hole of a neighboring bottom floor channel (331 ) of the wall panel system (301 ), the positioning between a pair of adjacent projections (485) being configured so as to ensure proper positioning between adjacent wall panels (305,315) of the system when corresponding bottom floor channels (331 ) are connected to one another via a same connecting plate (337), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 7 and 9, for example
[00223] As better shown in Figures 43-48, each projection (485) is preferably a threaded projection configured for receiving a corresponding nut (489) for removably securing an adjacent bottom floor channel (331 ) against the connecting plate (337). The radial angle (Θ) originating from the center point (483) of the connecting plate (337) and extending between a pair of adjacent projections (485) is substantially the same throughout the connecting plate (337). In the case where the connecting plate (337) comprises first and second projections (485), the radial angle (Θ) between adjacent projections (485) is about 180°. In the case where the connecting plate (337) further comprises third and fourth projections (485), and the radial angle (Θ) between adjacent projections is about 90°.
[00224] When the present wall panel system (301 ) is used on a carpeted floor, each connecting plate (337) is preferably a carpet gripper. Preferably also, each projection (485) comprises a setscrew (491 ) threadedly engageable into a corresponding hole (493) of the connecting plate (337), and each setscrew (491 ) preferably further comprises a pointed tip (495) for inserting between fibers of a corresponding carpet of the floor (307), so as to avoid damaging or leaving marks on the carpet, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
[00225] In the case connecting plate (337) is intended to be used as a seismic connecting plate (337), the seismic connecting plate (337) preferably comprises an anchoring hole (497) disposed about the center point (483) for receiving therein a threaded anchor (499) or other suitable component configured for extending downwardly and anchoring the seismic connecting plate (337) onto the floor (307).
[00226] As shown in Figures 43-48, each connecting plate (337) preferably has a substantially octagonal shape, although other suitable shapes and forms may be used depending on the particular applications for which the present wall panel system (301 ) is used, and the desired end results, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art.
[00227] As exemplified in the various accompanying drawings, the wall panel (305,315) comprises a ceiling rail (329) associated with each wall panel (305,315), the ceiling rail (329) being removably mountable onto the ceiling (309), shown in Figure 1 , in a suitable manner, as is well known in the art, such as with Caddy clips, for example. The ceiling rail (329) is illustrated, for example, in Figures 6 and 11 . As shown in the figures, the ceiling rail (329) is preferably substantially U-shaped, and comprises a pair of projecting elements (501 ) having extremities (503) being slanted towards one another, as shown in Figure 4, for example.
[00228] Preferably, the ceiling track (327) of each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315) is an extruded profiled ceiling track (327) being substantially complementary in shape to that of the ceiling rail (329), and comprises a pair of longitudinal grooves (505) for receiving a corresponding pair of projecting elements (501 ) of the ceiling rail (329). As shown in Figures 4 and 150, the ceiling track (327) is optionally secured to the top edge (319) of the panel (305) by a pair of top clamp assemblies (326). Figure 151 is an enlarged view of the clamp assembly (326). In some embodiments, the pair of top clamp assemblies (326) are laterally spaced apart a similar distance to that of the pair of lower clamp assemblies (472). Each of the top clamp assemblies (326) is substantially shorter in length than the ceiling track 327, for example being about the same length as the lower clamp assemblies (472). In other embodiments, each panel (305) includes a pair of ceiling tracks (327) that have lengths substantially less than the overall width of the panel (305), each of the pair of ceiling tracks (327) secured to a corresponding top clamp assembly (326).
[00229] As exemplified in the various accompanying drawings, such as Figures 4 and 1 1 , the wall panel system (301 ) preferably comprises a ceiling cover (507) associated with each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315), the ceiling cover (507) being removably mountable onto the ceiling track (327) of said prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315) in a variety of suitable manners, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. Similarly, the wall panel system (301 ) comprises a bottom cover (509) associated with each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315), the bottom cover (509) being removably mountable onto the bottom floor channel (331 ) of said prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315), in a variety of suitable manners, as apparent to a person skilled in the art. The bottom cover (509) is illustrated, for example, in Figures 12 and 13.
[00230] According to a preferred aspect of the present invention, each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315) is a frameless glass panel (305,315) for defining a frameless butt-glazed assembly (303), as exemplified in Figure 1 , for instance. Preferably, a gasket (51 1 ) is provided between adjacent side edges (325) of neighboring panels (305,315), as shown in Figure 8, for example.
[00231] Referring now to Figures 49-75, and according to another preferred aspect of the present invention, each prefabricated frameless panel (305,315) comprises at least one pre-perforated through-hole (513), as seen in Figure 49, for receiving a corresponding complementary accessory (515). Preferably, the complementary accessory (515) comprises a bushing (517) insertable into a corresponding through-hole (513), the bushing (517) having opposite ends provided with first and second threaded studs (519,521 ) configured for respectively receiving first and second components of the complementary accessory (515), as better shown in Figure 56, for example. Preferably also, the complementary accessory (515) comprises a washer (523) disposed between each end of the bushing (517) and a corresponding component.
[00232] According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention exemplified in Figures 49-56, the complementary accessory (515) comprises a butt- glazed distraction marker (525), and at least one of the first and second components of the complementary accessory is a distraction marker (525). Preferably, the complementary accessory (515) comprises a pair of distraction markers (525), both inner and outer, as shown.
[00233] According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention exemplified in Figures 57-67, the complementary accessory (515) may comprise a butt- glazed snap-on wood shell (527), in which case, at least one of the first and second components of the complementary accessory (515) is preferably a hooking knob (529), as better shown in Figure 62. Preferably also, the hooking knob (529) is configured for receiving a hanging plate (531 ) of the butt-glazed snap-on wood shell (527), and the hanging plate (531 ) preferably comprises a hanging hook (533), and at least one hole (535) for receiving a corresponding fastener, as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 65-67. [00234] According to the preferred embodiment of the present invention exemplified in Figures 68-75, the complementary accessory (515) may comprise a butt- glazed snap-on glass shell (537), in which case, at least one of the first and second components of the complementary accessory (515) is preferably a threaded stand-off stud (539). Preferably also, the complementary accessory (515) further comprises another bushing (517b) having opposite ends provided with first and second threaded studs (519b,521 b) configured for respectively receiving the threaded stand-off stud (539) and a distraction marker (525), as better exemplified in Figures 70-75
[00235] The prefabricated frameless panels (305) to be used with the present invention can be of various natures and types, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art. For example, the prefabricated frameless panels (305) could be a suitable laminated panel (305), or as exemplified in the drawings, simply a glass panel (305), that is preferably tempered or laminated. However, it is worth mentioning that various other suitable types of "frameless" panels (305) may be used and could be useful with the present invention, such as for example: gypsum, melamine, MDF, etc.
[00236] Preferably, and as exemplified in the accompanying figures, namely Figures 1 and 76-100, the wall panel system (301 ) comprises a sliding door assembly (541 ) being removably mountable onto the ceiling track (327) of a given prefabricated frameless wall panel (305,315) of the wall panel system (301 ).
[00237] As shown for example in Figures 76 and 77, the sliding door assembly (541 ) preferably comprises a sliding door (543) removably mountable onto a sliding door hardware (545) of the sliding door assembly (541 ) via an upper sliding door mounting bracket (547) as illustrated in Figure 78. Preferably, a bottom portion of the sliding door (543) is provided with a bottom guide plug (549), as better shown in Figure 84 and 85. Preferably also, a bottom portion of the sliding door (543) is provided with a bottom floor seal (551 ), and the bottom floor seal (551 ) may be spring-loaded via a spring 551 a so as to be biased downwardly, as exemplified in Figure 86.
[00238] Alternatively, and when referring to Figures 87-100, the sliding door assembly (541 ) may comprise a sliding glass door (553) removably mountable onto a sliding door hardware (545) of the sliding door assembly (541 ) via a pair of upper glass clamps (555a), the sliding door assembly (541 ) further comprising a height adjustment fastener (557) cooperating between the sliding door hardware (545) and each upper glass clamp (555a), and configured for selectively adjusting the vertical distance between said sliding door hardware and each upper glass clamp (555a), so as to in turn selectively adjust the height and angle of the sliding glass door (553) with respect to the floor (307). Preferably, the sliding glass door (553) is provided with a pair of bottom glass clamps (555b), which in turn are preferably provided with a bottom floor seal (559). Preferably also, opposite inner surfaces of each glass clamp (555) are provided with corresponding gaskets (561 ).
[00239] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each glass clamp (555) comprises a tightening assembly (563) for urging the inner surfaces of the clamp (555) towards one another via a corresponding tightening of the tightening assembly (563), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 89 and 94-100.
[00240] One way or the other, whether a sliding wooden door (543) or a sliding glass door (553), the sliding door hardware (545) is preferably provided with a soft-stop mechanism, not illustrated.
[00241] Figure 102 is a side elevational view of a pair of glass post panels 950 being assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 103 is an enlarged view of a top portion and Figure 104 is an enlarged view of the pair of glass post panels 950. Figure 105 is a bottom plan view of a pair of glass post panels being assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, illustrating the connecting plate 337 and the bottom floor channel 331. Figure 106 is a cross-sectional view taken along a given segment of what is shown in Figure 105.
[00242] Figure 107 is a partial top view of a three-way glass post panel 952 assembly according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 108 is a partial bottom view of the three-way glass post panel assembly 952. Figure 109 is a side elevational view of the three-way glass post panel assembly 952. Figure 1 10 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of the three-way glass post panel assembly 952.
[00243] Figure 1 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of a glass post panel three-way assembly 954. Figure 1 12 is an enlarged view of a portion of the glass post three-way panel assembly 954.
[00244] Figure 1 13 is a perspective view of a wall panel assembly 956 including a solid panel 970 and a glass post panel 950 assembled onto one another according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 14 is an enlarged view of a top portion of the wall panel assembly 956. Figure 1 15 is an enlarged view of the wall panel assembly 956. Figure 1 16 is a side elevational view of the wall panel assembly 956. Figure 1 17 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of the wall panel assembly 956.
[00245] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, each prefabricated frameless wall panel (305) of the wall panel system (301 ) has substantially the same height and the same width, said same height corresponding to a predetermined average height between the floor (307) and the ceiling (309), and each height adjustment assembly (333) being selectively adjusted to compensate for deviations between the floor (307) and the ceiling (309). [00246] In view of the foregoing, some methods of pre-assembling wall panels (305) at a manufacturing site for installation between the floor of the room at the installation, or job site and the ceiling rail (329) secured to the ceiling of the room, are described below. In some embodiments, pre-assembly includes securing a first one of the lower clamp assemblies (472), shown in Figure 5, to the front and back of the frameless panel (315) at the bottom portion of the frameless panel (315). As second one of the lower clamp assemblies (472) is also optionally secured to the bottom portion of the frameless panel (315), the first and second clamp assemblies (472) generally being located toward opposite sides of the frameless panel (315).
[00247] As illustrated for example in Figures 7 and 8, the bottom floor channel (331 ) is extended in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the panel (315) along the bottom of the frameless panel (315). A first one of the height adjustment mechanisms (333) is secured to the first one of the lower clamp assemblies (472) and the bottom floor channel (331 ), the first adjustment mechanism (333) being configured to selectively modify the vertical position of the frameless panel (315). A second one of the height adjustment mechanisms (333) is secured to the bottom floor channel (331 ), the second height adjustment mechanism (333) being configured to selectively modify a vertical position of the frameless panel (315) independent of the first height adjustment mechanism (333). As illustrated, the first height adjustment mechanism (333) and the second height adjustment mechanism (333) can be disposed at opposing bottom corners of the frameless panel (315). Thus, during installation, a user (not shown) is able to selectively raise the left and right sides of the frameless panel (315) (e.g., manually or using a power tool), according to some embodiments.
[00248] In some embodiments, the ceiling track (327), shown in Figure 6, is extended in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the frameless panel (315) along the top of the frameless panel (315), the ceiling track (327) being configured to be removably inserted into the ceiling rail (329). In particular, one of the upper, or top clamp assemblies (326) is secured to the front and the back of the frameless panel (315) at the top portion of the frameless panel (315) and the upper clamp assembly (326) is secured to the ceiling track (327), using a bolt fastener, for example. In some embodiments, a second one of the upper clamp assemblies (326), illustrated in Figure 4, is secured to the top portion of the frameless panel (315), the first and second upper clamp assemblies (326) being generally located toward opposites sides of the panel (315). Following pre-assembly, one or more of the pre-assembled wall panels (305) are delivered to the installation site. In some embodiments, a plurality of pre-assembled wall panels (305) are provided as a shipping kit or kit of parts to the installation site with additional components of the wall panel system (301 ). [00249] As shown in Figures 148 and 149, some methods of installing the wall panel system (301 ) between the floor of the room and the ceiling rail (329) include aligning the ceiling track (327) of the pre-assembled wall panel (305) with the ceiling rail (329). The ceiling track (327) is removably inserted into the ceiling rail (329) by angling or tilting the top of the wall panel (305) forward. The bottom of the wall panel (305) is the brought forward and the floor channel (331 ) is operatively rested against the floor with the ceiling track (327) received in the ceiling rail (329). A vertical position of the pre- assembled wall panel (305) is then adjusted by actuating one more of the adjustment mechanisms (333) with the ceiling track (327) being constrained front to back by the ceiling rail (329) while also being able to slide up and down vertically as the vertical position of the pre-assembled wall panel (305) is adjusted.
[00250] In some embodiments, height adjustment is accomplished manually (i.e., without the assistance of a powered tool, such as an electric drill). In other embodiments, the adjustment mechanisms are actuated using a power tool. In some embodiments, (e.g., as shown in Figures 19-22), actuating the adjustment mechanism includes driving a first end of a first leg and first end of a second leg toward one another, a second end of the first leg being pivotably connected relative to a second end of the second leg. In some embodiments (e.g., as shown in Figures 28-33), actuation of the adjustment mechanism (e.g., using a worm gear such as the worm gear 466) includes rotating the first, second, and third members (334,336, 338) relative to one another to telescopically extend the third member (338) from the second member (336) and the second member (336) from the first member (334). As illustrated, a bottom cover (509) fits along the bottom.
[00251] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the present wall panel system (301 ) may be used with and further comprises at least one framed wall panel (567) to be assembled with at least one other wall panel (305,315,567) of the wall panel system (301 ), whether a "frameless" wall panel (315) or a "framed" wall panel (567). The assembling of wall panels (305,315,567) is via corresponding components, as exemplified in the accompanying drawings, and preferably, a pair of integrated and power-drivable height adjustment assemblies (333) is also associated with each framed wall panel (567) and is insertable into (or comes pre-assembled with) a corresponding bottom floor channel (331 ) of the framed wall panel (567), each height adjustment assembly (333) comprising a support edge (335) for operatively supporting a bottom distance (569) of the framed wall panel (567), so as to selectively raise or lower the framed wall panel (567) by raising or lowering the bottom distance channel (569) thereof accordingly, thereby allowing a vertical height adjustment of the framed wall panel (567) and a rotational angle adjustment thereof, similarly to each "frameless" wall panel (315) of the wall panel system (301 ).
[00252] Preferably, the framed wall panel (567) comprises a dropdown cover
(571 ), said dropdown cover (571 ) being nestable within the bottom distance channel (569) of the framed wall panel (567) and being operable between lowered and raised configurations so as to selectively have access to the height adjustment assemblies (333) associated with the framed wall panel (567), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 144-147.
[00253] Preferably, the dropdown cover (571 ) is spring loaded with a corresponding spring (573) disposed between the bottom distance channel (569) and the dropdown cover (571 ), so as to urge the dropdown cover (571 ) towards a lowered configuration, against the floor (307), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 146 and 147.
[00254] Figure 1 18 is a perspective view of a wall panel assembly 980 including a door post 982 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 19 is a side elevational view of the wall panel assembly 980.
[00255] Referring now to Figures 120-124, first and second neighboring framed wall panels (567) are connected to one another with at least one post connection clip (577) being removably insertable into a pair of slots (579) of adjacent vertical posts (575).
[00256] According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the framed wall panel (567) comprises an intermediate distance channel (581 ), and an outer covering (583) provided with an inner hanging component (585), the outer covering (583) being mounted onto the framed wall panel (567) by hanging the hanging component (585) thereof onto the intermediate distance channel (581 ), as can be easily understood when referring to Figures 125-132.
[00257] The outer covering (583) may be a metallic shell (583), in which case, the inner hanging component (585) thereof is also preferably a stiffening component (587) for providing structural rigidity to the metallic shell (583), as exemplified in Figures 133 and 134.
[00258] Figure 135 is a cross-sectional view of a solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly 990 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention including a wall structure 1102 made of a first material.
[00259] Figure 136 is a cross-sectional view of a solid panel MDF/stackable and glass pole panel assembly 992 according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention, including a wall structure 1 104 made of a second material and including a layer 1106. [00260] According to yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention, and as better shown in Figures 137-140, the framed wall panel (567) may comprise a horizontal hooking channel (589) defined between a pair of stacked components (1591 ) of the framed wall panel (567), the hooking channel (589) being configured for receiving at least one hooking bracket (591 ).
[00261] Preferably, each hooking bracket (591 ) comprises a hooking portion (593) and hanging portion (595), the hooking portion (593) of the hooking bracket (591 ) being complementary in shape to that of the hooking channel (589), and the hooking channel (589) preferably comprises a groove (597) being shaped concave upwardly, as exemplified in Figure 139.
[00262] Figure 141 is a side elevational view of a wall panel assembly 1002 disposed along a clear story configuration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 142 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a top portion of the wall panel assembly 1002. Figure 143 is an enlarged view of a bottom portion of the wall panel assembly 1002.
[00263] Figure 144 is a fragmentary perspective view of a framed glass panel 1004 being provided with a dropdown cover 1006 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Figure 145 is a bottom perspective of the framed glass panel 1004, the framed glass panel 1004 being now without a bottom cover 1008.
[00264] Preferably, the wall panel system (301 ) comprises at least one other complementary wall panel (599) selected from the group consisting of glass post panel, solid panel, door post, metallic frame panel, stackable panel and clear story panel, so as to enable a variety of assemblies of different wall panels, as exemplified in the accompanying drawings.
[00265] As may now be better appreciated, the present invention is a substantial improvement over conventional wall panel systems, as can be easily understood by a person skilled in the art when referring to the accompanying drawings, and the present description.
[00266] For example, with respect to the "butt-glazed panel" embodiment of the present invention, it may have the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) modular panels with a continuous base cover and ceiling cover; b) continuous cover and ceiling cover will be assembled on the job side; c) 3/8" tempered glass with a 1/8" chamber on vertical edge for perfect butt joint in 2-way, 3-way or 4-way installation; d) the height of base cover stays constant; e) height adjustment of about +/- 1 ", components travel inside the floor channel and base cover; f) height adjustment will be mechanical operating via power tools or manual (option 1 - gear box and counter threaded rod; option 2 - rotating, radial connected tubular gears; and option 3 - double shaft and gear box); g) adjustment will be accessible from both sides of the panel; h) carpet gripper/seismic floor plate assures consistent and accurate distance/spacing between adjacent panels; i) carpet gripper/seismic floor plate allows panel to be placed in any angle; and j) vertical butt glazed filler/connector assures rigidity and exclusive design look.
[00267] With respect to the "carpet gripper/seismic floor attachment" embodiment of the present invention, it may have the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) all panels are secured to the floor channel with the threaded carpet gripper; b) holds dimension, keeps system from growing on the job side; and c) set screws are used as carpet grippers, but also to hold the floor channel in place (in seismic areas, the floor channel is fixed with a nut on the set screw and the plate will be bolted to the floor).
[00268] With respect to the "glass post panel" embodiment of the present invention, it may have the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) glass panels are modular unitized panels with a recessed base; b) glass panels accept 1/4" and 3/8" glass; c) glass panel frame consists of an aluminum or steel slotted post cladded with aluminum extrusions; d) panel to panel connection is achieved by hooking clips inserted into slotted standard punched along the vertical edges of the post; e) there will be a approx 3/8" reveal between panels; f) top distance channel 2.5" bottom distance channel 3"; g) height adjustment of about +/- 1", travelling inside the floor channel - glass is preferably held in place by a clamp secured to the frame; h) recessed base with incorporate spring-loaded dropdown cover concealing the height adjustment mechanism; i) spring-loaded dropdown cover pre-assembled in factory; and j) post and distance channels designed with a radius of about 4".
[00269] With respect to the "solid panel" embodiment of the present invention, it may have the following the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) solid panels are modular unitized panels with a recessed base; b) solid panels are stackable; c) solid panel frame is steel, with vertical slotting in the post; d) panel to panel connection by clip in steel slotting post; e) slotting in the post will also provide way of hanging of different kinds of accessories (i.e. overheads, work surfaces, furniture, shelving, etc.) - also, this could be achieved horizontally via horizontal track channel; f) shells are clipped or hung with the stiffeners to the frame into steel/spring steel clips which are fastened to the inside of the frame or hung horizontally; g) recessed base with incorporated spring-loaded dropdown cover; h) height adjustment of about +/- 1 ", traveling inside the floor channel, clamp is screwed to the frame; i) height will be adjusted with a power tool from the side of the panel; j) optional continues horizontal hooking channel incorporated in the frame; k) optional continuous horizontal hooking channel with stackable panels; and I) total width of hooking channel is 3/8", slot is shaped round to accept a same shape bracket, designed to prevent bracket from falling out.
[00270] With respect to the "height adjustment assembly" embodiment of the present invention, it may have the following components, features, dispositions, interrelations, variants and/or resulting advantages, namely: a) height adjustment of about +/- 1 ", traveling inside the floor channel, clamp is screwed to the frame or is clamping 3/8" or 1/2" glass; b) height will be adjusted with a power tool from the side of the panel; c) a gear box assembly operates the counter-threaded rod which in turn operates the steel, cross-attached arms which are secured to the glass holding clamps; and d) the height adjustment is accessible from both sides.
[00271] According to the present invention, the wall panel system and corresponding parts are preferably made of substantially rigid materials, such as metallic materials (aluminum, stainless steel, etc.), hardened polymers, composite materials, and/or the like, whereas other components thereof according to the present invention, in order to achieve the resulting advantages briefly discussed herein, may preferably be made of a suitably malleable and resilient material, such as a polymeric material (plastic, rubber, etc.), and/or the like, depending on the particular applications for which the wall panel system and resulting working space are intended for and the different parameters in cause, as apparent to a person skilled in the art.
[00272] As may now also be further appreciated, the wall panel system according to the present invention is an improvement over the prior art in that it provides a moveable non-progressive mountable and demountable wall panel system, particularly well suited for mounting frameless wall panels, such as butt-glazed wall panels, for example, in a very fast, easy, convenient, proper, systematic and cost-effective manner, thereby avoiding the corresponding drawbacks of the "stick-built" approach of conventional wall panel systems.
[00273] Of course, numerous modifications can be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, Figures 150-177 show features of a wall panel system 301 , according to some embodiments.
[00274] Figures 150-152 show components of a pre-assembled frameless wall panel 305, according to some embodiments. As shown, the wall panel 305 includes various components similar to those previously described. In some embodiments, the pre-assembled frameless wall panel 305 includes a pair of spaced apart, top clamp assemblies (326) (shown in greater detail in Figure 151 ), a pair of ceiling tracks (327), each of which is configured to be secured to a corresponding one of the top clamp assemblies (326). The pre-assembled frameless wall panel (305) also includes a wall panel (315), a pair of height adjustment assemblies (333) (shown in greater detail in Figure 152), and a bottom floor channel (331 ). While various components are shown provided in pairs, greater or fewer than two components are contemplated.
[00275] Figures 153-155 show a sliding door frame (800) for use with the wall panel system (301 ). Generally, a sliding door assembly (e.g., such as the sliding door assembly (541 )) is operatively secured to the sliding door frame (800). As shown, the sliding door frame (800) includes a first jamb (802), a second jamb (804), and a header (806) extending between the first and second jambs (802, 804).
[00276] According to some embodiments, the first and second jambs (802, 804) are mirror images of one another and thus, features of both jambs (802, 804) are described in associate with the first jamb (802). Figure 154 is partial view of the door frame (800) in area 154-154 designated in Figure 153 and Figure 155 is a top view of Figure 154, according to some embodiments. As shown in Figure 155, the first jamb (802) includes a clamp assembly (810) for clamping an adjacent frameless panel (not shown) of the wall panel system (301 ) and an inner cover assembly (812) for presenting an aesthetically pleasing surface to a user of the system (301 ).
[00277] In some embodiments, the clamp assembly (810) defines a receiving channel (813) for clamping onto a vertical edge of an adjacent, frameless panel, the clamp assembly (810) including a first portion (820) and a second portion (822), the first and second portions (820, 822) being configured to form a complementary fit to define the receiving channel (813). As shown, the clamp assembly (810) also includes retention members (824, 826) configured to be secured in an opposing manner to the first and second portions (820, 822), respectively.
[00278] The cover assembly (812) optionally includes securing means for securing the cover assembly (812) to the clamp assembly (810). In some embodiments, the securing means is a gasket (830) received by the cover assembly (812) and the clamp assembly (810) for frictionally retaining the cover assembly (812) to the clamp assembly (810) as shown in Figure 155.
[00279] In some embodiments, assembly of the wall panel system (301 ) includes securing the first and second portions (820, 822) on opposing sides of a vertical edge of an adjacent, frameless panel and securing the portions (820, 822) together using one or more fasteners (832) to secure the frameless panel (not shown) and associated portions of the system (301 ) to the first jamb (802). The second jamb (804) is optionally secured to another frameless panel (not shown) of the system (301 ) and the header (806) is secured between the first and second jambs (802, 804). In some embodiments, a sliding door assembly (e.g., such as the sliding door assembly (541 )) is operatively secured to header (806).
[00280] Figures 156-161 show additional features of the wall panel system (301 ) for further enhancing resistance of the system (301 ) against unwanted movement, such as that associated with seismic activity, for example. Figures 156 and 157 show an upper bracket (900) secured to adjacent ceiling tracks (327A, 327B) (e.g., similar to the ceiling track (327)) and the ceiling rail (329), the upper bracket (900) reinforcing or otherwise enhancing resistance of the system (301 ) to unwanted movement. As shown in Figures 158 and 159, the upper bracket (900) includes a first vertical leg (902) and a second vertical leg (904), the first vertical leg (902) being positioned above, and offset rearwardly from, the second vertical leg (904). The first vertical leg (902) is also substantially narrower than the second vertical leg (904), according to some embodiments. As shown, the first and second vertical legs (902, 904) include a plurality of apertures (906) for receiving fasteners, such as self-tapping screws (908) (Figures 156 and 157).
[00281] As shown in Figures 156 and 157, the upper bracket (900), also described as an upper interconnector, is centrally positioned between the adjacent ceiling tracks (327A, 327B), the first vertical leg (902) is secured to the ceiling rail (329), and the second vertical leg (904) is secured to the adjacent ceiling tracks (327A, 327B) using the self-tapping screws (908). In at least this manner, the adjacent ceiling tracks (327A, 327B) of the system (301 ) are secured together and are also secured to the ceiling rail (329) to provide additional resistance to unwanted movement of the system (301 ).
[00282] Figures 160-162 show a lower bracket (930) that is adapted to be received within adjacent bottom floor channels (331 A, 331 B) and secured to a floor to enhance resistance of the system (301 ) against unwanted movement. As shown in Figures 60 and 162, the lower bracket (930) is formed as an elongate piece of U-channel with relatively short sidewalls, the lower bracket (930) including two centrally located apertures (932).
In use the lower bracket (930), also described as a lower interconnector, is received within the adjacent, bottom floor channels (331 A, 331 B) and a fastener (not shown) such as a cement nail, is driven through the apertures (932) into the floor to help fasten the bottom floor channels (331A, 331 B) to the floor.
[00283] Figures 163-167 show another height adjustment assembly (333), according to some embodiments. As shown, the height adjustment assembly (333) includes a scissors-type height adjustment mechanism including a base (339), opposite first and second end caps (441 ,443) projecting from the base (339), and a height adjusting rod (445) being rotatively mounted about the end caps (441 ,443). The height adjusting rod (445) has first and second threaded segments (447,449) each being oppositely threaded with respect to one another. The height adjustment assembly (333) also includes first and second adjustment legs (451 ,453), the first adjustment leg (451 ) having an extremity pivotably mounted onto a runner component (455) threadedly engaged onto the first threaded segment (447) of the height adjusting rod (445) and a second extremity pitovably mounted onto a support edge (335). As shown, the second adjustment leg (453) has an extremity pivotably mounted onto a runner component (457) threadedly engaged onto the second threaded segment (449) of the height adjusting rod (445) and a second extremity pitovably mounted onto the support edge (335), such that a rotation of the common height adjusting rod (445) along a first direction causes a raising of the support edge (335), and a rotation of said common height adjusting rod (445) along a second and opposite direction causes a lowering of the support edge (335).
[00284] In some embodiments, the second extremities of the first and second adjustment legs (451 ,453) are pivotably mounted onto a bottom portion of the support edge (335) about a common pivot axis (459), as better shown in Figures 17, 18, 21 and 22. The adjustment legs (451 ,453) optionally include recessed portions (451 A, 453A) for avoiding, or receiving, a portion of the height adjusting rod (445) when the adjustment legs (451 ,453) are drawn down into a lowered configuration. Figures 165-167 demonstrate movement of the height adjustment assembly (333) between a retracted or collapsed state (FIG. 165), an intermediate state (FIG. 166) and an extended, or expanded state (FIG. 167).
[00285] Figures 168-177 show various features and components of a wall panel system (301 ) including a plurality of pre-assembled wall panels (305) similar to the pre- assembled wall panel (305) shown in Figure 150. Figure 168 shows a front, perspective view of the wall panel system (301 ) including a plurality of adjacent pre-assembled wall panels (305), the plurality of wall panels (305) including a first pre-assembled wall panel (305A), a second preassembled wall panel (305B), and a third pre-assembled wall panel (305C). As shown, the panels (305) include through holes (513) that are configured for use with a rail and tile system (950).
[00286] In some embodiments, the rail and tile system (950) includes a plurality of rails (952) forming a support framework and a plurality of tiles (954) supported by the framework. The tiles (954) are optionally secured to the rails (952) by fasteners, clips, brackets, adhesives or other securing means as desired. A variety of rail and tile system configurations are contemplated, where Figure 169 shows rails (952) for supporting a tile (954) or tiles (954) formed of one or more pieces of fabric, Figure 170 shows rails (952) for supporting a tile (954) or tiles (954) formed of a veneer or laminate material, and Figure 171 shows rails (952) for supporting a tile (954) or tiles (954) formed of laminated glass that can be used as a marker board, for example.
[00287] Figure 172 shows a back, perspective view of the system (301 ) with a second rail and tile system (950B) mounted to the back side of the system (301 ). The rail and tile system (950B) is shown in Figure 172 with the tiles removed to show apertures (956B) in the rails (952B) for securing the rails to the panels (305A, 305B, 305C) using the through holes (513). For example, fasteners such as bolts and washers (Figure 174) are threaded through the holes (513) to secure the rail and tile systems (950, 950B) in place on opposite sides of the panels (305A, 305B, 305C).
[00288] As shown in Figure 168, wall panel accessories such as a shelf (960) or a table extension (962) are optionally secured (e.g., cantilevered) into the rails (952) or features (not shown) included in the tiles (954). Figure 173 is an enlarged, cross- sectional view along line 173-173 in Figure 172 with the second rail and tile system (950B) removed for ease of illustration. As shown, the shelf (960) is inserted into an opening in the rail (952) such that the shelf (960) is cantilevered to the rail (952).As shown in Figure 168, one or more of the tiles (954) includes an opening or other features for receiving an electrical outlet assembly (964). The electrical outlet assembly (964) includes any of a variety of low, standard, or high voltage outlet means, such as a 1 10V electrical outlet, a LAN receptacle, an RF cable receptacle, or others. Figure 172 shows the electrical outlet assembly (964) from a rear view (as viewed through the glass of the panel (305B)), where Figure 175 is an enlarged view of area 175-175 of Figure 172. As shown in Figure 175, the electrical outlet assembly (964) includes a bracket (966) that is secured to the tile (954) using fastening means, such as screws, for example. The electrical outlet assembly (964) is optionally secured to a conduit feed assembly (Figure 176) which is connected to an electrical source (e.g., 1 0V power source, a LAN connection, cable t.v., or other). If desired, the conduit feed assembly can be run down to the bottom cover (509) (Figure 168) and through the bottom cover (509) to the electrical source. The electrical outlet assembly (964) thereby provides an effective and readily assembled solution for deploying outlets with the system 301 .
[00289] Figures 176 and 177 show components of another electrical outlet assembly (970) that is configured to be mounted at the bottom of the system (301 ) adjacent the bottom floor channels (331 ). As shown, the electrical outlet assembly (970) includes a first outlet (972), a second outlet (974), an electrical interconnect (976), a first mounting bracket (978), a second mounting bracket (980), a conduit feed assembly (982), and a modified bottom cover (984) that works similarly to bottom cover (509).
[00290] The first and second outlets (972, 974) are optionally electrically connected by electrical interconnect (976). As shown, the first and second outlets (972, 974) are configured as U.S. standard 1 10V outlets, although as mentioned with the electrical outlet assembly (964) any of a variety of outlet configurations are contemplated. In some embodiments, the first bracket (978) is configured to clip onto the first outlet (972) and the second bracket (980) is similarly configured to clip onto the second outlet (974).
[00291] In some embodiments, the modified bottom cover (984) includes a first opening (990) for operatively exposing the first outlet (972) for a user and a second opening (992) for operatively exposing the second outlet (974) for the user. The cover (984) also includes a first slot (996) for receiving a portion of the first bracket (978) in a snap fit relationship and a second slot (998) for receiving a portion of the second bracket (980) in a snap fit relationship and defines an upper channel (999) configured to receive the first and second outlets (972, 974), the electrical interconnect (976), the first and second mounting brackets (978, 980), and the conduit feed assembly (982).
[00292] Figure 177 is an end view showing the snap-fit, or clipped together relationship of the second bracket (980) and the bottom cover (984) with other portions of the assembly (970) removed for ease of illustration. As shown, the second bracket (980) is snapped into the bottom cover (984) with a lower portion (1000) of the second bracket (980) protruding through the second slot (998) (hidden in Figure 177). With the components fully or partially assembled together, the bottom cover (984) is secured to one or more of the bottom channels (331 ) and the conduit feed assembly (982) is connected to an electrical source (e.g., 110V power source, a LAN connection, cable t.v., or others). The electrical outlet assembly (970) thereby provides an effective and readily assembled solution for deploying low and/or high voltage outlets with the system (301 ).
[00293] Although various features of modular wall systems and associated methods have been described, it should be understood a variety of different features and combinations thereof are contemplated without departing from the scope of invention. For example, while the embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scope of invention also includes embodiments having different combinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of the described features. Accordingly, the scope of invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as fall within the claims, together with all equivalents thereof.

Claims

CLAIMS We claim:
1. A wall panel of a moveable and demountable wall panel system that is secured between a floor of a room and a ceiling rail secured to a ceiling of the room, the wall panel comprising:
a frameless panel having a top, a bottom, a left side, a right side, a front, and a back, the frameless panel defining a top portion toward the top and a bottom portion toward the bottom of the frameless panel;
an upper clamp assembly secured to the front and the back of the frameless panel at the top portion of the frameless panel;
a ceiling track extending in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the frameless panel along the top of the frameless panel, the ceiling track being secured to the upper clamp assembly and configured to be removably inserted into the ceiling rail;
a lower clamp assembly secured to the front and the back of the frameless panel at the bottom portion of the frameless panel such that the clamp assembly is configured to support the weight of the frameless panel;
a first height adjustment mechanism secured to the lower clamp assembly and
configured to selectively modify a vertical position of the frameless panel;
a second height adjustment mechanism configured to selectively modify a vertical position of the frameless panel independent of the first height adjustment mechanism;
a bottom floor channel receiving the first and second height adjustment mechanisms and extending in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the panel along the bottom of the frameless panel, the bottom floor channel being configured to be placed on the floor to support the first and second height adjustment mechanisms; and
an electrical outlet assembly that is configured to be mounted to the bottom floor channel, the electrical outlet assembly including a bottom cover secured to the bottom channel and housing a first outlet, a first mounting bracket secured to the first outlet, and a conduit feed assembly configured to connect to an electrical source.
2. The wall panel of claim 1 , further comprising a second outlet and an electrical interconnect electrically connecting the first outlet and the second outlet.
3. The wall panel of claim 2, wherein the bottom cover includes a first opening to expose the first outlet and a second opening to expose the second outlet.
4. The wall panel of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bottom cover includes a first slot to receive the first mounting bracket.
5. The wall panel of any of claims 1 to 4, further comprising a second mounting bracket, the bottom cover including a second slot to receive the second mounting bracket.
6. A wall panel of a moveable and demountable wall panel system that is secured between a floor of a room and a ceiling rail secured to a ceiling of the room, the wall panel comprising:
a frameless panel having a top, a bottom, a left side, a right side, a front, and a back, the frameless panel defining a top portion toward the top and a bottom portion toward the bottom of the frameless panel;
an upper clamp assembly secured to the front and the back of the frameless panel at the top portion of the frameless panel;
a ceiling track extending in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the frameless panel along the top of the frameless panel, the ceiling track being secured to the upper clamp assembly and configured to be removably inserted into the ceiling rail;
a lower clamp assembly secured to the front and the back of the frameless panel at the bottom portion of the frameless panel such that the clamp assembly is configured to support the weight of the frameless panel;
a first height adjustment mechanism secured to the lower clamp assembly and
configured to selectively modify a vertical position of the frameless panel;
a second height adjustment mechanism configured to selectively modify a vertical position of the frameless panel independent of the first height adjustment mechanism;
a bottom floor channel receiving the first and second height adjustment mechanisms and extending in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the panel along the bottom of the frameless panel, the bottom floor channel being configured to be placed on the floor to support the first and second height adjustment mechanisms; and
a rail and tile system secured to the frameless panel through apertures formed in the frameless panel.
7. The wall panel of claim 6, wherein the rail and tile system comprises a plurality of rails forming a support system.
8. The wall panel of claim 6 or claim 7, wherein the rail and tile system comprises a plurality of tiles supported by the support system.
9. The wall panel of claim 8, wherein the plurality of tiles are secured to the support system.
10. The wall panel of claim 8 or claim 9, wherein the plurality of tiles comprise fabric.
11 . The wall panel of any of claims 8 to 10, wherein the plurality of tiles comprise a veneer or laminate.
12. The wall panel of any of claims 8 to 11 , wherein the plurality of times comprise glass.
13. The wall panel of any of claims 7 to 12, further comprising an accessory secured to the support system.
14. The wall panel of claim 13, wherein the accessory comprises a shelf.
15. The wall panel of claim 13, wherein the accessory comprises a table extension.
16. A moveable and demountable wall panel system comprising:
a ceiling rail extending along a ceiling of a room;
a first prefabricated frameless wall panel including:
a panel having a top portion and a bottom portion;
an upper clamp assembly secured to the top portion of the panel; a ceiling track secured to the upper clamp assembly and extending in a
lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the panel along the top of the panel, the ceiling track being removably inserted into the ceiling rail;
a lower clamp assembly secured to the bottom portion of the panel; and a bottom floor channel secured to the lower clamp assembly, the bottom floor channel resting on a floor of the room; and a second prefabricated frameless wall panel positioned adjacent the first prefabricated frameless wall panel, the second prefabricated frameless wall panel including:
a panel having a top portion and a bottom portion;
an upper clamp assembly secured to the top portion of the panel; a ceiling track secured to the upper clamp assembly and extending in a
lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the panel along the top of the panel, the ceiling track being removably inserted into the ceiling rail;
a lower clamp assembly secured to the bottom portion of the panel; and a bottom floor channel secured to the lower clamp assembly, the bottom floor channel resting on the floor;
an upper interconnector including a first vertical leg and a second vertical leg, the first vertical leg being positioned above, and offset rearwardly from, the second vertical leg, the first vertical leg being secured to the ceiling railing and the second vertical leg being secured to the ceiling tracks of the first and second prefabricated frameless wall panels; and
a lower interconnector including two centrally located apertures, the lower
interconnector being received in the bottom floor channels of the first and second prefabricated frameless wall panels and secured to the floor.
17. The wall panel system of claim 16, wherein the upper and lower interconnectors are centrally positioned between the adjacent ceiling tracks of the first and second
prefabricated frameless wall panels.
18. The wall panel system of claim 16 or claim 17, wherein the first vertical leg of the upper interconnector is substantially narrower than the second vertical leg of the upper interconnector.
19. A method of pre-assembling wall panels at a manufacturing site for installation between a floor of a room at a job site and a ceiling rail secured to a ceiling of the room, the method comprising:
providing a frameless panel having a top, a bottom, a left side, a right side, a front, and a back, the frameless panel defining a top portion toward the top and a bottom portion toward the bottom of the frameless panel;
securing a lower clamp assembly to the front and back of the frameless panel at the bottom portion of the frameless panel; extending a bottom floor channel in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the panel along the bottom of the frameless panel;
securing a first height adjustment mechanism to the lower clamp assembly and the bottom floor channel, the first height adjustment mechanism being configured to selectively modify a vertical position of the frameless panel; and
securing a second height adjustment mechanism to the bottom floor channel, the second height adjustment mechanism being configured to selectively modify a vertical position of the frameless panel independent of the first height adjustment mechanism.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising:
extending a ceiling track in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the frameless panel along the top of the frameless panel, the ceiling track being configured to be removably inserted into the ceiling rail; and
securing an upper clamp assembly to the front and the back of the frameless panel at the top portion of the frameless panel and securing the upper clamp assembly to the ceiling track.
21 . The method of claim 19 or claim 20, further comprising shipping a pre-assembled wall panel from the manufacturing site.
22. The method of any of claims 19 to 21 , further comprising shipping a plurality of pre- assembled wall panels from the manufacturing site.
23. A method of installing a wall panel system between a floor of a room and a ceiling rail extending along and secured to a ceiling of the room, the method comprising:
removably inserting a ceiling track of a pre-assembled wall panel into the ceiling rail at an angle relative to vertical, the pre-assembled wall panel including:
a frameless panel having a top, a bottom, a left side, a right side, a front, and a back, the frameless panel defining a top portion toward the top and a bottom portion toward the bottom of the frameless panel;
an upper clamp assembly secured to the front and the back of the frameless panel at the top portion of the frameless panel, the ceiling track extending in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the frameless panel along the top portion of the frameless panel and being secured to the upper clamp assembly;
rotating the pre-assembled wall panel to vertical; operatively resting a bottom floor channel of the pre-assembled wall panel against the floor opposite the ceiling rail extending along the ceiling, the bottom floor channel receiving a first height adjustment mechanism and a second height adjustment mechanism and extending in a lengthwise direction between the right and left sides of the frameless panel along the bottom portion of the frameless panel, the first height adjustment mechanism being secured to the bottom portion of the frameless panel by a lower clamp assembly secured to the front and the back of the frameless panel at the bottom portion of the frameless panel; and
adjusting a vertical position of the pre-assembled wall panel by actuating the first height adjustment mechanism and the second height adjustment mechanism, the ceiling track of the pre-assembled wall panel being constrained front to back by the ceiling rail while being able to slide up and down vertically as the vertical position of the pre-assembled wall panel is adjusted.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein the first height adjustment mechanism is actuated manually.
25. The method of claim 23 or claim 24, wherein the first height adjustment mechanism is actuated using a power tool.
26. The method of any of claims 23 to 25, wherein actuating the first height adjustment mechanism includes driving a first end of a first leg and first end of a second leg toward one another, a second end of the first leg being pivotably connected relative to a second end of the second leg.
27. The method of any of claims 23 to 26, wherein the first height adjustment mechanism includes a first substantially vertical member having inner threads and outer threads and a second substantially vertical member having outer threads, the second member being telescopically received in the first member, the method further comprising rotating the first and second members relative to one another to telescopically extend the second member from the first member.
PCT/US2013/056247 2012-08-24 2013-08-22 Modular wall system WO2014039278A2 (en)

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AU2013313203A AU2013313203B2 (en) 2012-08-24 2013-08-22 Modular wall system
GB1502562.0A GB2519889B (en) 2012-08-24 2013-08-22 Modular wall system
CN201380054294.XA CN104736787B (en) 2012-08-24 2013-08-22 modular wall system
BR112015003744A BR112015003744A2 (en) 2012-08-24 2013-08-22 mobile and demountable wall panel system wall panels and related system and methods for pre-assembling and installing wall panels
CA2882868A CA2882868A1 (en) 2012-08-24 2013-08-22 Modular wall system
JP2015528661A JP6449767B2 (en) 2012-08-24 2013-08-22 Wall panels
MX2015002232A MX357368B (en) 2012-08-24 2013-08-22 Modular wall system.
HK15111470.9A HK1210818A1 (en) 2012-08-24 2015-11-20 Modular wall system

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US13/594,657 US8613168B2 (en) 2010-05-05 2012-08-24 Modular wall system

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