CA2465433C - Vertically movable partitions - Google Patents
Vertically movable partitions Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2465433C CA2465433C CA002465433A CA2465433A CA2465433C CA 2465433 C CA2465433 C CA 2465433C CA 002465433 A CA002465433 A CA 002465433A CA 2465433 A CA2465433 A CA 2465433A CA 2465433 C CA2465433 C CA 2465433C
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- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- curtain
- trains
- members
- mechanical
- apexes
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
- 238000005192 partition Methods 0.000 title description 10
- 239000010432 diamond Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 37
- 229910003460 diamond Inorganic materials 0.000 claims abstract description 25
- 239000004744 fabric Substances 0.000 claims description 16
- 230000008602 contraction Effects 0.000 claims description 4
- 229920000271 Kevlar® Polymers 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000004761 kevlar Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000004804 winding Methods 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 8
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 3
- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 description 3
- 238000005034 decoration Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
- E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
- E06B9/02—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary
- E06B9/06—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type
- E06B9/0692—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type comprising flexible sheets as closing screen
-
- 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
- E06B3/00—Window sashes, door leaves, or like elements for closing wall or like openings; Layout of fixed or moving closures, e.g. windows in wall or like openings; Features of rigidly-mounted outer frames relating to the mounting of wing frames
- E06B3/92—Doors or windows extensible when set in position
- E06B3/928—Doors or windows of the lazy tongs type
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
- E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
- E06B9/02—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary
- E06B9/06—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type
- E06B9/0607—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type comprising a plurality of similar rigid closing elements movable to a storage position
- E06B9/0615—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type comprising a plurality of similar rigid closing elements movable to a storage position characterised by the closing elements
- E06B9/063—Bars or rods perpendicular to the closing direction
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E06—DOORS, WINDOWS, SHUTTERS, OR ROLLER BLINDS IN GENERAL; LADDERS
- E06B—FIXED OR MOVABLE CLOSURES FOR OPENINGS IN BUILDINGS, VEHICLES, FENCES OR LIKE ENCLOSURES IN GENERAL, e.g. DOORS, WINDOWS, BLINDS, GATES
- E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
- E06B9/02—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary
- E06B9/06—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type
- E06B9/0607—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type comprising a plurality of similar rigid closing elements movable to a storage position
- E06B9/0615—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type comprising a plurality of similar rigid closing elements movable to a storage position characterised by the closing elements
- E06B9/0638—Slats or 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
- E06B9/00—Screening or protective devices for wall or similar openings, with or without operating or securing mechanisms; Closures of similar construction
- E06B9/02—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary
- E06B9/06—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type
- E06B9/0607—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type comprising a plurality of similar rigid closing elements movable to a storage position
- E06B9/0646—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type comprising a plurality of similar rigid closing elements movable to a storage position characterised by the relative arrangement of the closing elements in the stored position
- E06B9/0676—Shutters, movable grilles, or other safety closing devices, e.g. against burglary collapsible or foldable, e.g. of the bellows or lazy-tongs type comprising a plurality of similar rigid closing elements movable to a storage position characterised by the relative arrangement of the closing elements in the stored position stored in a stacked configuration
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Curtains And Furnishings For Windows Or Doors (AREA)
- Fencing (AREA)
- Load-Bearing And Curtain Walls (AREA)
- Finishing Walls (AREA)
- Building Environments (AREA)
Abstract
A mechanical curtain, upwardly movable into open position and downwardly movable into closed position, the curtain comprising: a) a plurality of similarly constructed trains of elongated members, the members of each train arranged to form a single pantograph forming longitudinally aligned rows of diamond shapes, the trains spaced laterally to form a curtain plane and oriented so that the diamond shapes of the pantographs operate in a plane at a 90° angle to that curtain plane, b) a plurality of bars secured in parallel spaced fashion to corresponding members in adjacent trains, perpendicular thereto, and, c) one or more cables to raise and lower the trains at a similar rate the pantographs being contracted when the curtain is in open position and the pantographs being elongated when the curtain is in closed position.
Description
TITLE OF THE INVENTION
VERTICALLY MOVABLE PARTITIONS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to mechanical curtains and more particularly to vertically movable partitions for use within buildings, for example, to cordon off areas, as required, to prevent public access, for crowd control.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Security partitions in the form of security gates are well known and may take the form of horizontally sliding bar systems, for example to close off open fronts of shops in shopping centers or to be moved across entrance ways to shops on streets. These types of movable security gates usually require storage space beside the area being protected, to accommodate the gate components when not in use. Conversely, existing "roll-up" security gates are stored in ceiling space when not in use. This type of gate is severely limited in width and height as the roller can only be supported at its ends and cannot deflect under the load of the gate.
U.S. Patent No. 5,062,464 of Miles Peterson, issued November 5, 1991 describes and illustrates a wall partition, which uses a pantograph type of construction to provide a rigid wall section, which is vertically collapsible and movable to a storage position. Movable wall partition systems have similar problems of storage and structural support requirements and the Peterson vertically - G ' movable wall partition avoids those problems by providing ceiling storage for the wall partitions and a single permanent location for all of the panels so that the loads imposed on the building support structure do not vary because of lateral movement of the panels. Further, this design of the wall system allows the partition to be of any width or height as it is lifted and supported at multiple points across its width.
This is made possible as the partition is folded up rather than rolled up.
The pantograph structure as suggested by the Peterson construction is similar to that for instance found in baby gates in which a series of elongated members are pivotally linked together in spaced fashion to provide a series of similar diamonds along the length of the gate. In a single (as opposed to multiple) pantograph construction, a pair of members of similar size are pivotally linked at their midpoints. One pair of their ends are pivotally linked to the ends of a further corresponding pair of members of similar length similarly pivoted at their midpoint, and so on. The midpoints of the members are longitudinally aligned and form opposed longitudinal apexes of diamond shapes; the other opposed corners of these diamonds are formed by the pivotally secured ends of adjacent pairs of intersecting members, and are the lateral apexes. The pantograph structure expands and contracts longitudinally. The pantograph structure in such applications is useful because it causes forces applied longitudinally, in the direction of expansion and contraction of the pantograph, to be transmitted evenly throughout all of the members of the pantograph structure. As well, all of the apexes of the diamonds formed by the points of intersection of the members, as the structure is contracted, will arrive at their final, fully contracted position at the same time, meaning that the longitudinal apexes of the diamonds at one end of the pantograph structure, which are moving towards the other end during contraction, will move at a much greater speed than the apexes of the diamonds at the other end.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a wall or other type of partition which is movable vertically, and which is based on these pantograph principles.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a mechanical curtain, upwardly movable into open position and downwardly movable into closed or down position. The mechanical curtain comprises a plurality of similarly constructed trains of elongated members, the members of each train arranged to form a single pantograph forming longitudinally aligned rows of diamonds. The trains are spaced laterally and operable to form a curtain plane, when the trains are in elongated position, and are oriented so that the pantographs operate in a plane at a 90 angle to that curtain plane. A
plurality of bars are secured in parallel spaced fashion to corresponding members of adjacent trains, perpendicular thereto. Means are provided to raise and lower the trains at a similar rate, the pantographs being contracted when the curtain is in open position and being elongated when the curtain is in closed position.
In one embodiment of the present invention, particularly applicable for use as a security gate, the mechanical curtain is further provided with locking means to secure the mechanical curtain in closed position against unwanted opening.
The mechanical curtain according to the present invention has many advantages. Because its components move vertically rather than horizontally, storage space is not required to the side of the area within which the wall operates, since the wall folds and stores above the area in question. Furthermore, because the mechanical curtain does not move horizontally, the loads imposed on the support structure are constant. Also, the height and width restrictions present with conventional roll-up security gates are avoided since the wall of the present invention may be lifted and supported at multiple points across its width.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon referring to the drawings in which:
FIGURE 1 is a perspective partial view of a mechanical curtain adapted to be used as a security gate, in a partially closed position;
FIGURE 2a, 2b and 2c are side elevation views of an end train of the mechanical curtain of Figure 1, showing that train respectively in expanded (or closed) position, partially closed position and fully contracted (or open) position;
FIGURE 3 is an enlarged size elevation view of a portion of a train of the mechanical curtain of Figure 1, in partially closed position as shown in Figure 2b, showing in more detail certain of the components of the train;
FIGURE 4 is a plan view from the top of a portion of the mechanical curtain of Figure 1;
FIGURE 5a, 5b and 5c are side elevation views of an end train of an alternative embodiment of the mechanical curtain according to the present invention, showing that train respectively in expanded, partially closed and fully contracted positions;
FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of an alternative train construction for a mechanical curtain according to the present invention;
FIGURE 7 is an enlarged side elevation view of a portion of the train of Figure 6 in partially closed position showing in more detail certain of the components of the train;
FIGURE 8 is a side elevation view of the train of Figure 7 in fully expanded (or closed) position;
FIGURE 9 is a plan view from the top of a portion of the mechanical curtain according to the present invention incorporating the construction of Figure 7;
FIGURE 10 is a partial front elevation view showing details of an alternative embodiment of the mechanical curtain of the present invention;
FIGURE 11 is a perspective view of yet a further alternative embodiment of the mechanical curtain according to the present invention in partially closed position;
FIGURE 12 is a schematic side elevation view of the mechanical curtain of Figure 12 without fabric; and FIGURE 13 is a schematic side elevation view of a portion of the mechanical curtain of Figure 12, with fabric.
While the invention will be described in conjunction with illustrated embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to such embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In the following description, similar features in the drawings have been given similar reference numerals.
Turning to FIGURE 1 there is illustrated a mechanical curtain 2 in accordance with the present invention, in partially lowered (closed) position.
The curtain as illustrated is particularly useful as a security gate. Curtain 2 is formed from a plurality of similar pantograph trains 4, longitudinally laterally spaced to form a plane of the curtain and supported only from their upper ends 6. Each train has an upper end 6 and a lower end 8, and is composed of elongated members 10, which form, in each train 4, aligned rows of diamonds 12. Other than for the last diamond 12 in each train 4, (at upper end 6 and lower end 8), similar pairs of elongated members 10 intersect and are secured pivotally together centrally between their ends as illustrated, to form vertically disposed longitudinal apexes 14 of diamonds 12. Corresponding ends of these pairs of intersecting members 10 pivotally connect to the ends of other pairs of similar intersecting members 10 to form at these ends laterally disposed apexes 16. Thus, as can be seen in FIGURE 2a, when trains 4 are elongated in the longitudinal direction, the longitudinal apexes 14 of each diamond 12 are more separated and the laterally disposed apexes 14 are drawn together, while, as can be seen in FIGURE 2c, when the trains are contracted, the longitudinal apexes 14 of each diamond 12 are drawn together and the laterally disposed apexes 16 are more separated.
Cooperating pairs of intersecting elongated members are preferably laterally offset on opposite sides of the apexes 14 and 16 by central spacers (FIGURE 4) so that they do not obstruct each other during opening and closing operation of the curtain. A longitudinally oriented aperture 20, of the longitudinal apexes 14 the function of which will be described subsequently, may be provided in each spacer 18.
Each pantograph train 4 operates with its diamonds 12 being in a plane, which is at a 90 angle to the curtain plane, as can be seen in FIGURE
1.
Extending between adjacent trains 4 and secured to corresponding members 10 of adjacent trains are a plurality of spaced bars 22. Notches 24 (FIGURE 3) are provided along interior edges of members 10 in each diamond, to receive portions of corresponding bars in opposite members 10 of the diamonds, when the trains are in their most elongated position.
As can be seen in FIGURE 3, as an option, a fabric 25 (chain-line) may be secured about bars 22 over a portion or all of the intended surface area of the curtain, the fabric for example being interwoven through the bars over one side of the diamonds 12 of the trains, as illustrated.
As can be seen in FIGURE 1, to move the curtain 2 longitudinally between upper, open position and lower, closed position, a drums 30 are provided with cables 28, one end of each of which is wrapped around its corresponding drum.
Each cable passes over a corresponding sheave or pulley 26, and its other end may be operatively connected to a lower end 8 of its corresponding train 4, as illustrated, or to a bar 22 extending between adjacent trains 4 at their lower end 8. For proper balance, the cables may extend vertically downwardly from sheaves 26 through aperture 20 in spacers of the longitudinal apexes 14 and be secured to the lower longitudinal apex 14 of its corresponding train 4.
As can be seen in FIGURE 4, bars 22 may be mounted so as to extend outwardly towards adjacent trains at longitudinal apexes 14.
Alternatively, for example, the cables 28 may be looped around a pulley 31 (phantom, FIGURE
3) with the free end of the cable appropriately connected above the curtain, to provide a double purchase arrangement for raising and lowering the curtain. An appropriate drive means 33 (FIGURES 2a, 2b, 2c) for drums 30 is provided so that by unwinding and winding each cable 28 in a similar manner with respect to drums 30, the pantographs are respectively elongated to close or contracted to open the curtain.
When the curtain is designed as a security gate, an appropriate conventional lock mechanism 32 (FIGURES 2a and 2b) may be provided, for example secured on or in an appropriate portion of the floor below the curtain, to cooperate with lock mechanism 34 secured, to lower end 8 of train 4.
For purpose of weight balance of the curtain, it is desired that similar numbers of bars 22 be secured to elongated members 10, preferably in an alternating fashion, on each side of the center line of the trains (i.e. on each side of the longitudinal axis of the trains running through the longitudinal apexes).
FIGURES 5a, 5b and 5c are schematic side elevation views of an alternative embodiment of mechanical curtain 2 in accordance with the present invention. In this case, the trains 4 are pivotally secured to a wall or other support 40 at the upper ends 42 of the upper most elongated members 10 as illustrated.
In this manner, as drums 30 wind up cables 28 over their corresponding sheaves 26, from closed position (FIGURE 5a) to open position (FIGURE 5c), the center line of trains 4 along the longitudinal apexes 14 progressively moves away from support 40 until, when the curtain is in open position as illustrated in FIGURE 5c, those longitudinal apexes 14 have moved their maximum distance away from support 40 and are preferably positioned below sheaves 26.
Turning to FIGURES 6, 7 and 8, there is illustrated an alternative construction of mechanical curtain 2 in which each elongated member 10 of train 4 is provided with a jog 46 as illustrated. Opposite ends of 48 and 50 of these members, on either side of jog 36, are parallel. As can be seen in FIGURES 7 and 9, pairs 10a of such members 10, on which bars 22 outwardly extend in opposite directions, the members being similarly oriented and positioned, are spaced beside each other and make up one opposing pair of sides of diamonds 12, while similar elongated single members 10b, to which no bars 22 are secured make up the other opposing sides. These members 10b are sandwiched between members 10a at the apexes where they are connected, and are reversed in their orientation with respect to members 10a. When the mechanical curtain is in elongated, closed orientation, (FIGURE 8) this construction permits the bars to be in vertical orientation, albeit, again for reasons of balance, staggered on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis of the mechanical curtain trains 4 as illustrated. (The embodiment of mechanical curtain illustrated in FIGURES 1 to 5, prevents the bars from being in vertical alignment.) The embodiment of train construction illustrated in FIGURES 6 to 8 requires inner members 10b to have no bars secured to them so that the bars secured to members 10a of a particular diamond 12 will not bear against cooperating, opposed members 10b in that diamond during the contraction of the trains.
In this embodiment, cables 28 are illustrated as passing through apertures 52 centered in the lowest bars 22 extending between longitudinal apexes 14 of trains 4.
In FIGURE 10, additional horizontally disposed subsets of bars 56 may be provided as required, extending between trains 4, for aesthetic or functional purposes.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 11, a similar extension 60 is laterally disposed in the plane of each diamond 12, from each laterally disposed apex 16. The end of each extension 60 is secured by appropriate conventional means to slide up and down within a corresponding track 62. In this embodiment, cables 28 lie along one edge of each pantograph train 4, as illustrated, and are secured at its free end to their lowest extension 52. Track 62 may be supported by existing structures such as walls or posts, or may be free standing.
As illustrated in FIGURE 11, a fabric 25 may also be fitted over bars 22 as desired, for purposes such as decoration, obscuring or preventing visibility through the curtain, or other functions. This fabric may for instance be a type of Kevlar (trademark) cloth which is bullet proof or may be solar type cloth which has solar heat control or energy creation applications (i.e. which is made of solar cell material that can convert light energy into electrical energy).
In FIGURE 12, an arrangement of curtain, similar to that of FIGURE 11 but without any fabric on it, is illustrated in side elevation view, at a position in mid travel between its open and closed positions. In FIGURE 13, a more detailed view, again from a side elevation perspective, of the curtain of FIGURE 11 is illustrated, on which fabric 58 is illustrated.
The mechanical curtain of the present invention, whether used for security, solar control or otherwise, is relatively simple to construct and operate, and may readily be made visually appealing, while having all of the above mentioned advantages over prior art security gates and the like.
Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided in accordance with the invention a mechanical curtain that fully satisfies the objects, aims and advantages set forth above. While the invention has been described in conjunction with illustrated embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the invention.
VERTICALLY MOVABLE PARTITIONS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to mechanical curtains and more particularly to vertically movable partitions for use within buildings, for example, to cordon off areas, as required, to prevent public access, for crowd control.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Security partitions in the form of security gates are well known and may take the form of horizontally sliding bar systems, for example to close off open fronts of shops in shopping centers or to be moved across entrance ways to shops on streets. These types of movable security gates usually require storage space beside the area being protected, to accommodate the gate components when not in use. Conversely, existing "roll-up" security gates are stored in ceiling space when not in use. This type of gate is severely limited in width and height as the roller can only be supported at its ends and cannot deflect under the load of the gate.
U.S. Patent No. 5,062,464 of Miles Peterson, issued November 5, 1991 describes and illustrates a wall partition, which uses a pantograph type of construction to provide a rigid wall section, which is vertically collapsible and movable to a storage position. Movable wall partition systems have similar problems of storage and structural support requirements and the Peterson vertically - G ' movable wall partition avoids those problems by providing ceiling storage for the wall partitions and a single permanent location for all of the panels so that the loads imposed on the building support structure do not vary because of lateral movement of the panels. Further, this design of the wall system allows the partition to be of any width or height as it is lifted and supported at multiple points across its width.
This is made possible as the partition is folded up rather than rolled up.
The pantograph structure as suggested by the Peterson construction is similar to that for instance found in baby gates in which a series of elongated members are pivotally linked together in spaced fashion to provide a series of similar diamonds along the length of the gate. In a single (as opposed to multiple) pantograph construction, a pair of members of similar size are pivotally linked at their midpoints. One pair of their ends are pivotally linked to the ends of a further corresponding pair of members of similar length similarly pivoted at their midpoint, and so on. The midpoints of the members are longitudinally aligned and form opposed longitudinal apexes of diamond shapes; the other opposed corners of these diamonds are formed by the pivotally secured ends of adjacent pairs of intersecting members, and are the lateral apexes. The pantograph structure expands and contracts longitudinally. The pantograph structure in such applications is useful because it causes forces applied longitudinally, in the direction of expansion and contraction of the pantograph, to be transmitted evenly throughout all of the members of the pantograph structure. As well, all of the apexes of the diamonds formed by the points of intersection of the members, as the structure is contracted, will arrive at their final, fully contracted position at the same time, meaning that the longitudinal apexes of the diamonds at one end of the pantograph structure, which are moving towards the other end during contraction, will move at a much greater speed than the apexes of the diamonds at the other end.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a wall or other type of partition which is movable vertically, and which is based on these pantograph principles.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a mechanical curtain, upwardly movable into open position and downwardly movable into closed or down position. The mechanical curtain comprises a plurality of similarly constructed trains of elongated members, the members of each train arranged to form a single pantograph forming longitudinally aligned rows of diamonds. The trains are spaced laterally and operable to form a curtain plane, when the trains are in elongated position, and are oriented so that the pantographs operate in a plane at a 90 angle to that curtain plane. A
plurality of bars are secured in parallel spaced fashion to corresponding members of adjacent trains, perpendicular thereto. Means are provided to raise and lower the trains at a similar rate, the pantographs being contracted when the curtain is in open position and being elongated when the curtain is in closed position.
In one embodiment of the present invention, particularly applicable for use as a security gate, the mechanical curtain is further provided with locking means to secure the mechanical curtain in closed position against unwanted opening.
The mechanical curtain according to the present invention has many advantages. Because its components move vertically rather than horizontally, storage space is not required to the side of the area within which the wall operates, since the wall folds and stores above the area in question. Furthermore, because the mechanical curtain does not move horizontally, the loads imposed on the support structure are constant. Also, the height and width restrictions present with conventional roll-up security gates are avoided since the wall of the present invention may be lifted and supported at multiple points across its width.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
These and other advantages of the invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon referring to the drawings in which:
FIGURE 1 is a perspective partial view of a mechanical curtain adapted to be used as a security gate, in a partially closed position;
FIGURE 2a, 2b and 2c are side elevation views of an end train of the mechanical curtain of Figure 1, showing that train respectively in expanded (or closed) position, partially closed position and fully contracted (or open) position;
FIGURE 3 is an enlarged size elevation view of a portion of a train of the mechanical curtain of Figure 1, in partially closed position as shown in Figure 2b, showing in more detail certain of the components of the train;
FIGURE 4 is a plan view from the top of a portion of the mechanical curtain of Figure 1;
FIGURE 5a, 5b and 5c are side elevation views of an end train of an alternative embodiment of the mechanical curtain according to the present invention, showing that train respectively in expanded, partially closed and fully contracted positions;
FIGURE 6 is a perspective view of an alternative train construction for a mechanical curtain according to the present invention;
FIGURE 7 is an enlarged side elevation view of a portion of the train of Figure 6 in partially closed position showing in more detail certain of the components of the train;
FIGURE 8 is a side elevation view of the train of Figure 7 in fully expanded (or closed) position;
FIGURE 9 is a plan view from the top of a portion of the mechanical curtain according to the present invention incorporating the construction of Figure 7;
FIGURE 10 is a partial front elevation view showing details of an alternative embodiment of the mechanical curtain of the present invention;
FIGURE 11 is a perspective view of yet a further alternative embodiment of the mechanical curtain according to the present invention in partially closed position;
FIGURE 12 is a schematic side elevation view of the mechanical curtain of Figure 12 without fabric; and FIGURE 13 is a schematic side elevation view of a portion of the mechanical curtain of Figure 12, with fabric.
While the invention will be described in conjunction with illustrated embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to such embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
In the following description, similar features in the drawings have been given similar reference numerals.
Turning to FIGURE 1 there is illustrated a mechanical curtain 2 in accordance with the present invention, in partially lowered (closed) position.
The curtain as illustrated is particularly useful as a security gate. Curtain 2 is formed from a plurality of similar pantograph trains 4, longitudinally laterally spaced to form a plane of the curtain and supported only from their upper ends 6. Each train has an upper end 6 and a lower end 8, and is composed of elongated members 10, which form, in each train 4, aligned rows of diamonds 12. Other than for the last diamond 12 in each train 4, (at upper end 6 and lower end 8), similar pairs of elongated members 10 intersect and are secured pivotally together centrally between their ends as illustrated, to form vertically disposed longitudinal apexes 14 of diamonds 12. Corresponding ends of these pairs of intersecting members 10 pivotally connect to the ends of other pairs of similar intersecting members 10 to form at these ends laterally disposed apexes 16. Thus, as can be seen in FIGURE 2a, when trains 4 are elongated in the longitudinal direction, the longitudinal apexes 14 of each diamond 12 are more separated and the laterally disposed apexes 14 are drawn together, while, as can be seen in FIGURE 2c, when the trains are contracted, the longitudinal apexes 14 of each diamond 12 are drawn together and the laterally disposed apexes 16 are more separated.
Cooperating pairs of intersecting elongated members are preferably laterally offset on opposite sides of the apexes 14 and 16 by central spacers (FIGURE 4) so that they do not obstruct each other during opening and closing operation of the curtain. A longitudinally oriented aperture 20, of the longitudinal apexes 14 the function of which will be described subsequently, may be provided in each spacer 18.
Each pantograph train 4 operates with its diamonds 12 being in a plane, which is at a 90 angle to the curtain plane, as can be seen in FIGURE
1.
Extending between adjacent trains 4 and secured to corresponding members 10 of adjacent trains are a plurality of spaced bars 22. Notches 24 (FIGURE 3) are provided along interior edges of members 10 in each diamond, to receive portions of corresponding bars in opposite members 10 of the diamonds, when the trains are in their most elongated position.
As can be seen in FIGURE 3, as an option, a fabric 25 (chain-line) may be secured about bars 22 over a portion or all of the intended surface area of the curtain, the fabric for example being interwoven through the bars over one side of the diamonds 12 of the trains, as illustrated.
As can be seen in FIGURE 1, to move the curtain 2 longitudinally between upper, open position and lower, closed position, a drums 30 are provided with cables 28, one end of each of which is wrapped around its corresponding drum.
Each cable passes over a corresponding sheave or pulley 26, and its other end may be operatively connected to a lower end 8 of its corresponding train 4, as illustrated, or to a bar 22 extending between adjacent trains 4 at their lower end 8. For proper balance, the cables may extend vertically downwardly from sheaves 26 through aperture 20 in spacers of the longitudinal apexes 14 and be secured to the lower longitudinal apex 14 of its corresponding train 4.
As can be seen in FIGURE 4, bars 22 may be mounted so as to extend outwardly towards adjacent trains at longitudinal apexes 14.
Alternatively, for example, the cables 28 may be looped around a pulley 31 (phantom, FIGURE
3) with the free end of the cable appropriately connected above the curtain, to provide a double purchase arrangement for raising and lowering the curtain. An appropriate drive means 33 (FIGURES 2a, 2b, 2c) for drums 30 is provided so that by unwinding and winding each cable 28 in a similar manner with respect to drums 30, the pantographs are respectively elongated to close or contracted to open the curtain.
When the curtain is designed as a security gate, an appropriate conventional lock mechanism 32 (FIGURES 2a and 2b) may be provided, for example secured on or in an appropriate portion of the floor below the curtain, to cooperate with lock mechanism 34 secured, to lower end 8 of train 4.
For purpose of weight balance of the curtain, it is desired that similar numbers of bars 22 be secured to elongated members 10, preferably in an alternating fashion, on each side of the center line of the trains (i.e. on each side of the longitudinal axis of the trains running through the longitudinal apexes).
FIGURES 5a, 5b and 5c are schematic side elevation views of an alternative embodiment of mechanical curtain 2 in accordance with the present invention. In this case, the trains 4 are pivotally secured to a wall or other support 40 at the upper ends 42 of the upper most elongated members 10 as illustrated.
In this manner, as drums 30 wind up cables 28 over their corresponding sheaves 26, from closed position (FIGURE 5a) to open position (FIGURE 5c), the center line of trains 4 along the longitudinal apexes 14 progressively moves away from support 40 until, when the curtain is in open position as illustrated in FIGURE 5c, those longitudinal apexes 14 have moved their maximum distance away from support 40 and are preferably positioned below sheaves 26.
Turning to FIGURES 6, 7 and 8, there is illustrated an alternative construction of mechanical curtain 2 in which each elongated member 10 of train 4 is provided with a jog 46 as illustrated. Opposite ends of 48 and 50 of these members, on either side of jog 36, are parallel. As can be seen in FIGURES 7 and 9, pairs 10a of such members 10, on which bars 22 outwardly extend in opposite directions, the members being similarly oriented and positioned, are spaced beside each other and make up one opposing pair of sides of diamonds 12, while similar elongated single members 10b, to which no bars 22 are secured make up the other opposing sides. These members 10b are sandwiched between members 10a at the apexes where they are connected, and are reversed in their orientation with respect to members 10a. When the mechanical curtain is in elongated, closed orientation, (FIGURE 8) this construction permits the bars to be in vertical orientation, albeit, again for reasons of balance, staggered on opposite sides of the longitudinal axis of the mechanical curtain trains 4 as illustrated. (The embodiment of mechanical curtain illustrated in FIGURES 1 to 5, prevents the bars from being in vertical alignment.) The embodiment of train construction illustrated in FIGURES 6 to 8 requires inner members 10b to have no bars secured to them so that the bars secured to members 10a of a particular diamond 12 will not bear against cooperating, opposed members 10b in that diamond during the contraction of the trains.
In this embodiment, cables 28 are illustrated as passing through apertures 52 centered in the lowest bars 22 extending between longitudinal apexes 14 of trains 4.
In FIGURE 10, additional horizontally disposed subsets of bars 56 may be provided as required, extending between trains 4, for aesthetic or functional purposes.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 11, a similar extension 60 is laterally disposed in the plane of each diamond 12, from each laterally disposed apex 16. The end of each extension 60 is secured by appropriate conventional means to slide up and down within a corresponding track 62. In this embodiment, cables 28 lie along one edge of each pantograph train 4, as illustrated, and are secured at its free end to their lowest extension 52. Track 62 may be supported by existing structures such as walls or posts, or may be free standing.
As illustrated in FIGURE 11, a fabric 25 may also be fitted over bars 22 as desired, for purposes such as decoration, obscuring or preventing visibility through the curtain, or other functions. This fabric may for instance be a type of Kevlar (trademark) cloth which is bullet proof or may be solar type cloth which has solar heat control or energy creation applications (i.e. which is made of solar cell material that can convert light energy into electrical energy).
In FIGURE 12, an arrangement of curtain, similar to that of FIGURE 11 but without any fabric on it, is illustrated in side elevation view, at a position in mid travel between its open and closed positions. In FIGURE 13, a more detailed view, again from a side elevation perspective, of the curtain of FIGURE 11 is illustrated, on which fabric 58 is illustrated.
The mechanical curtain of the present invention, whether used for security, solar control or otherwise, is relatively simple to construct and operate, and may readily be made visually appealing, while having all of the above mentioned advantages over prior art security gates and the like.
Thus, it is apparent that there has been provided in accordance with the invention a mechanical curtain that fully satisfies the objects, aims and advantages set forth above. While the invention has been described in conjunction with illustrated embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations as fall within the spirit and broad scope of the invention.
Claims (17)
1. A mechanical curtain, upwardly movable into open position and downwardly movable into closed position, the curtain comprising:
a) a plurality of similarly constructed trains of elongated members, the members of each train arranged to form a single pantograph forming longitudinally aligned rows of diamond shapes, the trains spaced laterally and operable to form a curtain plane, when the trains are in elongated position, and oriented so that the diamond shapes of the pantographs operate in a plane at a 90° angle to that curtain plane, b) a plurality of bars secured in parallel spaced fashion to corresponding members in adjacent trains, perpendicular thereto, and c) means to raise and lower the trains at a similar rate the pantographs being contracted when the curtain is in open position and the pantographs being elongated when the curtain is in closed position.
a) a plurality of similarly constructed trains of elongated members, the members of each train arranged to form a single pantograph forming longitudinally aligned rows of diamond shapes, the trains spaced laterally and operable to form a curtain plane, when the trains are in elongated position, and oriented so that the diamond shapes of the pantographs operate in a plane at a 90° angle to that curtain plane, b) a plurality of bars secured in parallel spaced fashion to corresponding members in adjacent trains, perpendicular thereto, and c) means to raise and lower the trains at a similar rate the pantographs being contracted when the curtain is in open position and the pantographs being elongated when the curtain is in closed position.
2. A mechanical curtain according to claim 1, wherein the means to raise and lower the trains comprises simply a cable means secured to the train, and means to manipulate the cable means so as to simultaneously raise or lower the trains at a similar rate.
3. A mechanical curtain according to claim 2, wherein the cable means comprises a plurality of cables, each of the cables secured to a different one of the lower ends of each of the trains, portions of the cables wound about a power driven line shaft so that rotation of the line shaft in one direction, winding up the cables, causes the trains simultaneously and at a similar rate to move to contracted position and rotation of the line shaft in the other direction, unwinding the cables, and causes the trains simultaneously and at a similar rate to move to elongated position.
4. A mechanical curtain according to claim 3, wherein similar pairs of elongated members intersect and are secured pivotally together centrally between their ends to form adjoining longitudinally disposed apexes of adjacent diamond shapes and corresponding ends of these pairs of intersecting members pivotally connect to the ends of similar pairs of intersecting members to form at these ends laterally disposed apexes of the diamond shapes, so that when the trains are contracted the longitudinal apexes of each diamond shape are drawn together and the laterally disposed apexes are more separated, and when the trains are elongated the longitudinal apexes of each diamond shape become more separated and the laterally disposed apexes are drawn together.
5. A mechanical curtain according to claim 4, wherein similar pairs of elongated members are laterally offset at the apexes, the cable for each train passing through the corresponding longitudinal apexes between the elongated members.
6. A mechanical curtain according to claim 1, wherein notches are provided at appropriate positions in the elongated members of each diamond to receive corresponding portions of bars in cooperating opposite elongated members of that diamond when the curtain is in closed position.
7. A mechanical curtain according to claim 1 adapted for use as a security gate, further provided with locking means to secure the curtain in closed position against unwanted opening.
8. A mechanical curtain according to claim 1, further provided with elongated lengths of fabric extending between adjacent trains and over a plurality of bars.
9. A mechanical curtain according to claim 4, wherein in each train corresponding laterally disposed apexes of the diamond shapes are provided with similar extensions, the extensions oriented within the plane of the diamond shape and being slidably secured within a track for expansion and contraction movement of the train.
10. mechanical A curtain according to claim 4, wherein in each train similar pairs of elongated members, with their ends extending parallel to each other from a central jog, make up one opposing pair of sides of diamond shapes while similar single members in reverse orientation make up the other opposing pair of sides of the diamond shapes, the members of the pairs being spaced from each other and seated about the single members, the longitudinal apexes of the diamond shapes being centered in the jogs, the bars being secured to extend outwardly from only the pairs of elongated members along the length of the train.
11. A mechanical curtain according to claim 4 when the bars are secured on opposite sides of the longitudinal apexes so as to provide a balance of weight on either side of those apexes.
12. A mechanical curtain according to claim 10 when the bars are secured on opposite sides of the longitudinal apexes so as to provide a balance of weight on either side of those apexes.
13. A mechanical curtain according to claim 8 wherein the fabric extends between all of the bars of the curtain.
14. A mechanical curtain according to claim 13 wherein the fabric is of flexible Kevlar (Trademark).
15. A mechanical curtain according to claim 13 wherein the fabric is made of solar heat control cloth.
16. A mechanical curtain according to claim 13 wherein the fabric is made of solar cell material, which can convert light energy into electrical energy.
17. A mechanical curtain, upwardly movable into open position and downwardly movable into closed position, the curtain comprising:
a) a plurality of similarly constructed trains of elongated members, the trains supported only from above and the members of each train arranged to form a single pantograph forming longitudinally aligned rows of diamond shapes, the trains spaced laterally to form a curtain plane and oriented so that the diamond shapes of the pantographs operate in a plane at a 90° angle to that curtain plane, b) a plurality of bars secured in parallel spaced fashion to corresponding members in adjacent trains, perpendicular thereto, and c) means to raise and lower the trains at a similar rate the pantographs being contracted when the curtain is in open position and the pantographs being elongated when the curtain is in closed position.
a) a plurality of similarly constructed trains of elongated members, the trains supported only from above and the members of each train arranged to form a single pantograph forming longitudinally aligned rows of diamond shapes, the trains spaced laterally to form a curtain plane and oriented so that the diamond shapes of the pantographs operate in a plane at a 90° angle to that curtain plane, b) a plurality of bars secured in parallel spaced fashion to corresponding members in adjacent trains, perpendicular thereto, and c) means to raise and lower the trains at a similar rate the pantographs being contracted when the curtain is in open position and the pantographs being elongated when the curtain is in closed position.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002597703A CA2597703C (en) | 2003-05-06 | 2004-04-27 | Vertically movable partition walls |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US10/430,528 | 2003-05-06 | ||
| US10/430,528 US6808000B1 (en) | 2003-05-06 | 2003-05-06 | Vertically movable security partition |
| US10/806,883 US7156142B2 (en) | 2004-03-23 | 2004-03-23 | Vertically movable partition walls |
| US10/806,883 | 2004-03-23 |
Related Child Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002597703A Division CA2597703C (en) | 2003-05-06 | 2004-04-27 | Vertically movable partition walls |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2465433A1 CA2465433A1 (en) | 2004-11-06 |
| CA2465433C true CA2465433C (en) | 2009-03-17 |
Family
ID=32994002
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002465433A Expired - Lifetime CA2465433C (en) | 2003-05-06 | 2004-04-27 | Vertically movable partitions |
Country Status (4)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1475508B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP4336614B2 (en) |
| AU (1) | AU2004201914B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2465433C (en) |
Families Citing this family (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP2112317A3 (en) * | 2008-04-23 | 2012-03-28 | Jørn Krab Holding APS | Motorized coverings for building openings |
| PT2284351T (en) * | 2008-05-02 | 2016-07-13 | Amiserru Sl | Double-panel quick-opening door |
| US8302654B2 (en) | 2009-07-30 | 2012-11-06 | Railquip Enterprises Inc. | Vertically collapsible weather resistant barrier for opening in a building envelope |
| US8327905B2 (en) | 2010-10-01 | 2012-12-11 | Railquip Enterprises Inc. | Vertically collapsible barrier with improved sealing |
| US9045935B2 (en) | 2012-10-01 | 2015-06-02 | Railquip Enterprises Inc. | Vertically folding wall partition |
| ITUB20161218A1 (en) * | 2016-03-01 | 2017-09-01 | Ima Spa | Closing apparatus for access gates to industrial machinery. |
| CN108222327B (en) * | 2017-12-29 | 2023-08-18 | 广州康普顿至高建材有限公司 | Folding storage partition |
| MX2022010169A (en) * | 2020-02-18 | 2022-09-02 | Medrano Sergio A Ortiz | Vertically telescoping closure apparatus. |
Family Cites Families (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US284741A (en) * | 1883-09-11 | William h | ||
| US2237141A (en) * | 1940-01-24 | 1941-04-01 | Etta F Gale | Curtain support |
| GB871910A (en) * | 1958-08-21 | 1961-07-05 | K M Steel Products Proprietary | Improvements in garage doors |
| US3378059A (en) * | 1966-12-07 | 1968-04-16 | Vertex Inc | Actuating linkage for folding doors |
| JPS5482823A (en) * | 1977-12-15 | 1979-07-02 | Matsushita Electric Works Ltd | Bellows-type gate |
| US5062464A (en) | 1991-03-25 | 1991-11-05 | Diesel Kiki Co. Ltd. | Vertically collapsible wall partitions |
| AUPP371998A0 (en) * | 1998-05-27 | 1998-06-18 | Cassar, Frank | Solid high speed door |
| US6267169B1 (en) * | 2000-03-03 | 2001-07-31 | Railtech Ltd. | Vertically folding wall partitions |
-
2004
- 2004-04-27 CA CA002465433A patent/CA2465433C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2004-04-29 EP EP20040252489 patent/EP1475508B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 2004-05-05 AU AU2004201914A patent/AU2004201914B2/en not_active Expired
- 2004-05-06 JP JP2004137566A patent/JP4336614B2/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU2004201914B2 (en) | 2006-03-16 |
| EP1475508B1 (en) | 2013-09-18 |
| EP1475508A3 (en) | 2007-06-27 |
| EP1475508A2 (en) | 2004-11-10 |
| CA2465433A1 (en) | 2004-11-06 |
| AU2004201914A1 (en) | 2004-11-25 |
| JP4336614B2 (en) | 2009-09-30 |
| JP2004332535A (en) | 2004-11-25 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
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| EEER | Examination request |