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    • 专利摘要:
    Abstract Disclosed herein is a demountable structure. The demountable structure comprises a plurality of frames, each frame being defined by peripheral rails joined by corner 5 joiners. Each corner joiner comprises first and second portions adapted to receive thereat respective ends of first and second peripheral rails. Corner joiners in adjacent in-line frames are clampable together in order to join the adjacent frames. Jisu 1I
    公开号:AU2013203854A1
    申请号:U2013203854
    申请日:2013-04-11
    公开日:2014-07-10
    发明作者:Ian Harker
    申请人:ZENITH INTERIORS Pty Ltd；
    IPC主号:E04B2-74
    专利说明:
    A DEMOUNTABLE STRUCTURE FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to demountable structures such as a demountable 5 office partitioning structures. BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION Demountable structures, such as office partitioning structures, are known. Office partitioning structures are typically built from the ground up on-site so that they 10 conform to the specific location and requirement of the user. Components in these structures are permanently fixed to at least the floor and ceiling (and possibly one or more walls) in order to make them structurally sound. When such structures need to be dismantled, however, it is usually necessary to repair (or "make good") the space where the structure was, which can take considerable time and effort. For example, 15 it may be necessary to replace strips of carpet that were cut out in order to affix the structure to the floor, as well as needing to repair and repaint the portions of the ceiling/side walls. Further, the majority of the components used in such demountable structures are not reusable once the structure is dismantled (e.g. they are damaged during dismantling or were site specific). 20 Modular demountable structures are also known, but are typically much weaker than the structures discussed above. Such modular structures therefore need to be supported from a number of sides in order to provide them with appropriate structural integrity. Furthermore, known modular structures usually have very specific forms, 25 and may therefore not be able to meet the specific requirements of a location (and are therefore not suitable for use in such locations). SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In a first aspect, the invention provides a demountable structure. The demountable 30 structure comprises a plurality of frames, each frame being defined by peripheral rails joined by corner joiners. Each corner joiner comprises first and second portions adapted to receive thereat respective ends of first and second peripheral rails. Corner joiners in adjacent in-line frames are clampable together in order to join the adjacent frames. 35 By clamping the corner joiners of adjacent in-line frames together, the demountable structure of the invention can be formed with a structural integrity far greater than -1Iexisting modular demountable structures. The invention can therefore advantageously provide a modular, moveable and reconfigurable demountable structure (e.g. an office partitioning structure) having an inherent strength and stability such that the structure does not need to be supported by walls or from the 5 ceiling. Indeed, demountable structures in accordance with the present invention can be provided in the form of standalone structures in the middle of an office space. Due to its modular nature and good strength/stability, a demountable structure of practically any shape or size can be formed in accordance with the invention. 10 Further still, the demountable structure of the invention can be disassembled without irreversibly damaging the frames (or other components), enabling the fames to be re used, making the system more cost effective and more environmentally friendly. In some embodiments, the demountable structure further comprises a raising portion 15 locatable underneath a lowermost frame and operable to raise or lower the height of the lowermost frame from the ground. In one embodiment, the raising portion comprises a floor contacting surface, a lowermost frame contacting surface and a telescopic adjustment operable to increase or decrease the distance between the floor contacting surface and the lowermost frame contacting surface. 20 Such a raising portion enables individual frames (and frames attached on top of those frames) to be lifted up or down. This is especially useful in situations where the floor in the building where the demountable structure is being erected is uneven or sloping. For example, concrete floors in high rise buildings can sag by up to 15 25 cm from an edge to a centre. The raising portion enables the demountable structure to be able to conform to practically any floor likely to be encountered in use. In some embodiments, the demountable structure further comprises a ceiling contacting portion locatable above an uppermost frame and operable to bridge any 30 gap between the uppermost frame and a ceiling. In one embodiment, the ceiling contacting portion is attachable to the ceiling and comprises one or more tongues adapted to be received at a corresponding channel in the uppermost frame. The demountable structure of the invention typically further comprises one or more 35 junction joiners. The (or each) junction joiner is adapted to be attached to the peripheral rails of a plurality of frames, with the one or more junction joiners being arrangeable such that the plurality of frames can be joined at an angle to each other. -2- These junction joiners are used where one set of in-line frames join at an angle with another set (or sets) of inline frames. For example, two sets of in-line frames may join each other at 45 or 90 degrees to define a corner of the demountable structure. 5 Alternatively, 3 sets of in line frames may join each other to define a T-junction. Alternatively, 4 sets of in line frames may join each other to define a four way junction. In some embodiments, the junction joiners are clamped together in order to join the frames. In alternate embodiments, the junction joiners can be more permanently joined using fixings, or the like, 10 Typically, the frames of the demountable structure are adapted to receive panels thereon. In some embodiments, the panels comprise a hanger (or a plurality of hangers if the panel is particularly large or heavy) at an upper portion thereof, the hanger being adapted to be received in a respective groove in an uppermost 15 peripheral rail of the frame. In some embodiments, the panels comprise a snap fitting that is adapted to hold the panel in place once installed on the frame. Typically, the demountable structure of the invention will further comprise doors and windows, and the like, to provide access and light into the inside of the structure. 20 In a second aspect, the invention provides a joiner for joining first and second members. The joiner comprises first and second arms adapted to be received at respective ends of the first and second members. The first and second arms each comprise a groove comprising an angled side wall. Tighteners passing through the 25 first and second members can engage the angled side walls of the first and second arms respectively, and whereby tightening the tighteners moves the tighteners further into the groove and causes the first and second members to be drawn together. The joiner of the second aspect of the invention advantageously provides a means 30 by which two members can first be joined, and then tightly drawn together. This may be advantageous in situations where gaps in a join are not desirable, e.g. because of aesthetic reasons. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 35 Specific embodiments of the invention will be described below, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which: -3- Figure 1 shows adjacent in-line frames of a demountable structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 shows a perspective view of the corner joiner shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows a top view of two adjacent frames similar to that shown in Figure 1 5 which are joined: Figure 4 shows a sectional view of a demountable structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention extending from the floor to ceiling; Figure 5 shows a perspective view of a junction joiner for use in joining two frames of a demountable structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention of an 10 angle to each other; Figure 6 shows a sectional view of a demountable structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention in which two frames are joined at right angles to each other; Figure 7 shows a sectional view of a demountable structure in accordance with an 15 embodiment of the invention in which three frames are joined to define a T-shape; Figure 8 shows a sectional view of a demountable structure in accordance with an embodiment of the invention in which four frames are joined to define a cross shape; and Figure 9 shows a perspective view of a joiner in accordance with an embodiment of 20 the second aspect of the invention, as well as two members to be joined and other components for joining the members. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION As discussed above, in a first aspect, the invention provides a moveable and 25 reconfigurable demountable structure (e.g. a demountable office). The demountable structure comprises a plurality of frames, each frame being defined by peripheral rails joined by corner joiners. Each corner joiner comprises first and second portions adapted to receive thereat respective ends of first and second peripheral rails. Corner joiners in adjacent in-line frames (i.e. frames that share the same plane) are 30 clampable together in order to join the adjacent frames. Advantages of the invention in its general form are described above. The demountable structure of the invention is formed by joining the plurality of frames (and the other components described below) in a manner whereby the desired 35 structure is formed. Each frame is typically of a standard size (or comes in a variety of standard sizes), and the size/shape of the structure will depend on how the frames are assembled. Each frame is defined about its periphery by peripheral rails. The -4peripheral rails may be made of any material, but will typically be made from an extruded material such as aluminium. Corner joiners are present at every corner of each frame. Clamping adjacent frames 5 together via these corner joiners provides a degree of structural stability (especially in relation to the lateral movement of a wall of the structure) to the modular demountable structure of the invention not previously achievable by modular demountable structures. The corner joiners are typically formed from a strong and rigid cast material. 10 A number of frames may be pre-assembled to make a module that is sized according to any particular building conditions or planning requirements. Typically, for Australian buildings, the size of modules can be varied in 300mm increments up to 1200mm, which is an economical width of most panel materials. Modules can be 15 manufactured to suit various fixed or suspended ceiling heights up to a maximum of about 3.6m. As the modules can be built off-site in a controlled factory environment, they provide a high quality and consistent product ready to install on site. Joining each module (either in-line to make a wall of the demountable structure or at an angle to make a corner) produces the demountable structure. 20 In some embodiments, the corner joiners further comprise an abutment surface, wherein the abutment surface of a first corner joiner is adapted to abut the abutment surface of a second corner joiner when the corner joiners of in-line frames are clamped together. The direct contact of these abutment surfaces can result in a 25 demountable structure having an even greater strength and stability. In some embodiments, the abutment surface is a raised surface on the first or second portion. This raised surface is proud from the peripheral rails and provides a sufficiently large contact area between two adjacent corner joiners such that, when 30 clamped together, they become mechanically fixed and a high degree of lateral stability is imparted to the resultant in-line structure. The raised portions of adjacent corner joiners may be entirely smooth, or may have complementary patterns to prevent for an even securer join. 35 The first and second portions are typically slidably receivable inside the peripheral rails. As noted above, the peripheral rails are typically formed from an extruded -5material such as aluminium, and the first/second portions can be securely received inside the extrusion. In order to even further enhance the strength and stability of the demountable 5 structure, the first and second portions may also comprise channels into which corresponding ribs of the peripheral rails are receivable. Thus, the peripheral rails are held even more securely in place with respect to the corner joiners (especially with respect to torsional forces between the corner joiners and rails). 10 The corner joiners may also have apertures adapted to receive fasteners for fastening the first and second peripheral rails to the first and second portions respectively, to provide an even stronger attachment between the corner joiners and rails. 15 Typically, the first and second portions are first and second arms. Typically, the first and second portions are perpendicular to each other (i.e. the frames are square or rectangular shaped, which is the most efficient shape). In some embodiments, the demountable structure further comprises a raising portion 20 locatable underneath a lowermost frame and operable to raise or lower the height of the lowermost frame from the ground. In one embodiment, the raising portion comprises a floor contacting surface, a lowermost frame contacting surface and a telescopic adjustment operable to increase or decrease the distance between the floor contacting surface and the lowermost frame contacting surface. 25 As discussed above, the raising portion enables individual frames (and frames attached on top of those frames) to be lifted up or down, which is useful in situations where the floor in the building where the demountable structure is being erected is uneven or sloping. An example of one suitable raising portion will be discussed in 30 further detail below, but it is envisaged that any raising/lowering mechanism would be suitable for use in the demountable structure of the invention. In some embodiments, the demountable structure further comprises a ceiling contacting portion locatable above an uppermost frame and operable to bridge any 35 gap between the uppermost frame and a ceiling. In one embodiment, the ceiling contacting portion is attachable to the ceiling and comprises one or more tongues -6adapted to be received at a corresponding channel or groove in the uppermost frame. The ceiling contacting portion can provide lateral support for the frames, but the 5 frames are not necessarily suspended from the ceiling. An example of one suitable ceiling contacting portion will be discussed in further detail below, but it is envisaged that any similar mechanism would be suitable for use in the demountable structure of the invention. 10 The demountable structure typically further comprises one or more junction joiners so that the structure can have corners. The (or each) junction joiner is adapted to be attached to the peripheral rails of a plurality of frames, with the one or more junction joiners being arrangeable such that the plurality of frames can be joined at an angle to each other. 15 In some embodiments, a first junction joiner is attached to a first frame and a second junction joiner is attached to a second frame, the first and second junction joiners comprising surfaces adapted to abut one another when the first and second frames are at right angles to each other. 20 In some embodiments, a first junction joiner is attached to a first frame, a second junction joiner is attached to a second frame and a third junction joiner is attached to a third frame, the first, second and third junction joiners comprising surfaces adapted to abut one another when the first, second and third frames define a T-shape. 25 In some embodiments, a first junction joiner is attached to a first frame, a second junction joiner is attached to a second frame, a third junction joiner is attached to a third frame and a fourth junction joiner is attached to a fourth frame, the first, second, third and fourth junction joiners comprising surfaces adapted to abut one another 30 when the first, second, third and fourth frames define a cross shape. In some embodiments, a first frame and a second frame are attached to the same junction joiner and the first and second frames are at a 45 degree angle to each other. 35 In some embodiments, the junction joiners are clamped together to securely join the frames. Alternatively, the junction joiners could be joined using other joining techniques such as tech screws, adhesive or the like. 5 In some embodiments the (or each) junction joiner is adapted to be attached to the corner joiner of the frame. Attaching the junction joiners to the corner joiners (which provide the enhanced lateral strength and stability to the in-line frames) would provide an additional degree of strength and stability to the corner or join, and hence to the demountable structure overall. 10 The frames of the demountable structure are typically adapted to receive panels thereon. The panels may be mounted on the frames in any manner known in the art. Typically, however, the panels comprise a hanger (or a number of hangers if the panel is especially large or heavy) at an upper portion thereof, the hanger being 15 adapted to be received in a respective channel or groove in an uppermost peripheral rail of the frame. Panels can thereby be hung in position on the frame. In this manner, the frames (or a module having a number of frames, e.g. a floor-to-ceiling module of 3-4 frames) can be provided with an aesthetically pleasing and/or functional appearance. 20 The panels may, for example, have a snap fitting (or the like) that is adapted to hold the panel in place once installed on the frame. In such embodiments, the panel is first mounted onto the frame (e.g. by hanging the hanger in the groove in the rail), and then pushed into position within the rail until the snap fitting securely retains the 25 panel therein. The panels may take any conventional form and may be interchangeable. For example, the panels may be fibreboard panels (of any colour) or glass (clear or opaque). As discussed above, in some embodiments, frames having a consistent 30 size are used to build the demountable structure of the invention. In such embodiments, panels having a consistent size could also be used, meaning that even fewer different parts are required to form the demountable structure. Certain panels may also have functionality, e.g. panels that are whiteboards or pin boards. 35 The panels may also have acoustic properties and/or may be provided with acoustic seals around their edges. If the demountable structure is intended to be "sound -8proof", additional sound absorbing materials may also be inserted within the frames between the panels. The frames will usually have apertures via which cabling can be passed throughout 5 the demountable structure in order to provide power or an internet connection to any desired part of the demountable structure. The panel frames provide a cavity for the installation of hard or soft wired service cabling. Appropriate punch outs in frames allow for cable entry at ceiling or floor level. Vertical reticulation can be either through the panel cavity or junction posts to pre-located outlet boxes in the panels. 10 Unlike drywall, all power and data cabling can be installed, tested and checked prior to the installation of panels and cover strips. Subsequent access for changes or additions is simply the reverse of above. The demountable structure will also include doors and windows, and the like, in order 15 to provide appropriate access into and out of the structure. It will be appreciated that specific embodiments of the invention can provide the following features and benefits: * Low cost of ownership - despite a more expensive initial outlay than a 20 standard generic drywall solution, the higher initial outlay is neutralised with 2 churns, with future cost savings realised with 3 or more churns. * Clean, contemporary aesthetic look that can integrate seamlessly into any office environment. It forms a blank canvas for specifiers to customise the system to create an individual solution. 25 * Easy to specify and customise - specification and customisation is as simple as nominating frame sizes, panel configurations/finishes and door styles. * Very quick and easy to install - once ceiling and floor tracks are installed, preassembled wall frames simply bolt together, with wall panels, trims and covers to clip onto the system. Installation of doors completes the system. 30 * Fewer trades and messy site work - OH&S concerns are minimised with no dust or messy trades on site. The system can be churned with minimal disruption. * Highly reconfigurable - wall frames can easily be disconnected and reconnected. The universal junction joiner castings can accommodate 2, 3 35 and 4 way connections, so the configurations are endless. - 9o Does not damage floors and ceilings - the unique bracket that fixes the ceiling track to the ceiling grid (ceiling contacting portion) does not damage ceiling panels. The floor track profile (floor contacting portion) has been designed in a way that grips the floor without the need for fixings. 5 a Easily adapts to expected local floor and ceiling variations - all modules have inbuilt adjustment to floor level deviation of 44mm overall. The ceiling channel can be adjusted to take up to 22mm of ceiling level deviation. In a second aspect, the invention provides a joiner for joining first and second 10 members. The joiner comprises first and second arms adapted to be received at respective ends of the first and second members. The first and second arms each comprise a groove comprising an angled side wall. Tighteners passing through the first and second members can engage the angled side walls of the first and second arms respectively, and whereby tightening the tighteners moves the tighteners further 15 into the groove and causes the first and second members to be drawn together. The joiner of the second aspect of the invention advantageously provides a means by which two members can first be joined, and then aligned and tightly drawn together. This may be advantageous in situations where gaps in a join are not 20 desirable, e.g. because of aesthetic reasons. The joiner of the second aspect may be used in components of the demountable structure of the first aspect (e.g. the glass panels), but the application of the joiner of the second aspect is not limited to such applications. 25 The first and second arms are typically slidably receivable inside the first and second members. The first and second arms are typically perpendicular to each other, 30 The tighteners are typically screws that pass through a threaded bore before they can engage the angled side walls of the first and second arms. Thus, tightening the screws causes the first and second members to be drawn together in a very controllable manner, whereby the best possible join can be achieved. 35 In some embodiments, the threaded bore is in a block that is slidably locatable in a groove on an outside of the first and second members. Alternatively, the first and second members may be provided with apertures having a threaded bore in them. -10- Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 5 Referring firstly to Figure 1, an intersection 10 at an uppermost portion of two frames A and B for use in a demountable structure of the invention is shown. Each frame is defined by rails about its periphery and, in the embodiment shown is either square or rectangular. Frame A is defined by horizontal rail 12, vertical rail 14 and two other rails (not shown). Frame B is defined by horizontal rail 16, vertical rail 18 and two 10 other rails (not shown). Rails 12, 14, 16 and 18 are formed from extruded aluminium and are shaped so as to enable all of the functions discussed herein. Although rails 12 and 16 end at intersection 10, in alternative embodiments, a continuous uppermost vertical rail could be used at intersection 10. Adjacent rails are joined by corner joiners 20 (e.g. rails 16 and 18 in frame B are joined by corner joiner 20). 15 Although it cannot clearly be seen, a corner joiner 20 also joins rails 12 and 14 in frame B. Clamping these two corner joiners together at intersection 10 (as will be described in more detail below) results in a very strong join which can contribute greatly to the enhanced strength of the demountable structure of the invention. 20 In some embodiments (not shown in the drawings) intersections involving 4 square or rectangular frames (e.g. frames A, B, C and D) may have up to four corner joiners 20 (especially in demountable structures for use in buildings with high ceilings, which can be quite heavy). Clamping these four corner joiners together at the intersection can result in an even stronger join. 25 As will be described in further detail below, corner joiners 20 have channels adapted to slidably receive ribs on the rails 12, 14, 16 and 18. In use, one arm of the corner joiner (see below) is slid onto an end of a first rail (e.g. rail 12), and a second rail (e.g. rail 14) is slid onto the second arm of the corner joiner. The rails (e.g. 12, 14) may 30 then be affixed to the corner joiner in the manner described below. In use, frames A and B can be joined with other similar frames to form a module and the modules joined to other modules either in-line or at an angle, in order to build the demountable structure (not shown). 35 A corner joiner 20 is shown in greater detail Figure 2. Corner joiner 20 is typically formed of a cast material such as cast aluminium and has first 22 and second 24 - 11 arms. First arm 22 has grooves 26 on either side thereof (only one groove is visible in Figure 2), which are adapted to receive corresponding ribs of a rail that is to be attached to the corner joiner 20. Grooves 26 terminate at stops 28, which prevent the rail into which the first arm 22 is to be inserted (as described below) sliding 5 completely over the top of the corner piece. Second arm 24 also has grooves 32 on either side thereof (only one groove is visible in Figure 2), which are also adapted to receive corresponding ribs of a rail that is to be attached to the corner joiner 20. Grooves 32 do not have a stop and a corner 10 joiner 20 that has been inserted into a rail via second arm 24 is therefore capable of sliding up and down the length of a rail (e.g. rail 14 in Figure 1). The corner joiner 20 also has a number of apertures for affixing the corner joiner 20 to the first rail (e.g. apertures 34), to the second rail (e.g. apertures 36, with only one 15 aperture being visible in the drawing) and to an adjacent corner joiners (i.e. aperture 38). The purpose of aperture 39 will be discussed below. Adjacent in-line frames can now be joined as shown in Figure 3. Figure 3 shows a partly cross sectional view in which a first frame 40 having rails 42 and 44 (shown in 20 cross section) is joined to a second frame 46 having rails 48 and 50 (shown in cross section). Rails 42 and 48 are shown extending laterally across the page and are joined at one end thereof. Rails 44 and 50 are shown (in cross section) extending out of the page and abutting each other along one side thereof along all of their length. 25 Rails 42 and 44 are held in perpendicular arrangement to each other by corner joiner 20. Rail 42 has ribs 52 which fit within grooves 32 of the corner piece 20 such that the corner piece can slide longitudinally along the length of rail 42, but substantially cannot move laterally or torsionally. Rail 44 has ribs 54 which fit within grooves 26 of 30 the corner piece such that the rail 44 can be slid onto the corner piece 20 until the end of the rail abuts stops 28. In this position, some longitudinal movement between rail 44 and the corner piece 20 is possible, but substantially no lateral or torsional relative movement is possible. If desired, rails 42 and 44 can be joined to the corner joiner using screws or bolts and via the apertures discussed above in the usual 35 manner. - 12- Similarly, rails 48 and 50 are held in perpendicular arrangement to each other by corner joiner 20. Thus, when a bolt 56 is passed through apertures 38 of the corner joiners 20, 20 and 5 through holes in rails 44 and 50, and tightened, the corner joiners 20, 20 are securely clamped together with the first arms 22, 22 of the corner joiners 20, 20 being firmly pressed together with the rails 44 and 50 therebetween. In this manner, a substantially planar wall of a demountable structure with numerous in-line frames attached together can be provided that has a relatively very strong lateral strength. 10 Indeed the inventors have found that the lateral strength of such walls is comparable to that of traditional demountable structures. Referring now to Figure 4, upper (ceiling contacting) and lower (floor contacting) portions of a module comprising a plurality of frames will now be described. Figure 4 15 shows a module having at least a lowermost frame 58 and an uppermost frame 60, with the number of frames therebetween depending on the required height of the demountable structure. Lowermost frame 58 has a lowermost rail 62 and uppermost frame 60 has an uppermost rail 64. 20 Lowermost rail 62 abuts telescopic body 64. A threaded bolt 66 passes through an aperture in telescopic body 64 and aperture 39 of the corner joiner 20 and extends into the inside of lowermost frame 58. A nut 68 is provided on the bolt 66, and is contained within a recess defined between the telescopic body 64 and lowermost rail 62. Rotating bolt 66 causes it to either move into or out of the lowermost frame 58. 25 Thus, rotating bolt 66 when the module depicted in Figure 4 is positioned vertically on a floor causes the module to rise or fall. In this manner, adjacent modules (either in line or otherwise) in a demountable structure can have their height selectively adjusted such that they are in perfect alignment, regardless of the slope or unevenness of the floor. 30 A floor contacting portion 70 is also provided. Floor contacting portion 70 securely positions the base of the module in a desired position on the floor. Floor contacting portion 70 can further include a number of barbs 72 which dig into the carpet or floor (in a non-destructive manner) to even more securely retain the floor contacting 35 portion 70 in the required position on the floor. -13- Floor contacting portion may include upwardly projecting ribs 73, which are adapted to receive thereon a skirt 74 that is associated with telescopic body 64. The ribs 73 and skirt 74 are slidably moveable with respect to each other and cooperate to retain the module in a desired portion with respect to the floor, as well as providing an 5 aesthetic appearance and a barrier that could prevent accidental injury (e.g. by kicking the bolt 66). Uppermost frame 60 has an uppermost rail 64. Uppermost rail 64 has ribs 76 which project upwardly from the uppermost rail 64 and define therebetween a channel. A 10 guide 78 is received within the channel, the guide 78 having a lower portion and an upper portion. The upper portion of guide 78 is adapted to be received between downwardly projecting ribs 80 of a ceiling contacting portion 82. Ceiling contacting portion 82 is affixed to the ceiling of the building in which the 15 demountable structure is to be erected, and provides a means by which the upper portion of the module can be appropriately aligned and secured in order to form the demountable structure. A space is provided between ribs 76 and ribs 80 so that the module can be moved up and down (as discussed earlier) without them contacting each other. The dimensions of the guide 78 are such that it will bridge the gap 20 between ribs 76 and ribs 80 across the entire range of up/down movement of the module. Facia panels 84 can be attached to the ceiling contacting portion 82, for example using a snap-fit type arrangement. These facia panels can slide along an outside of 25 the upper frame 60 as the module moves up and down and provide both an aesthetically pleasing appearance as well as improving the acoustic insulation of the demountable structure. As can also be seen in Figure 4, upper 60 and lower 58 frames have panels 86 30 hanging therefrom. Each panel 86 has a hanger 88 and a snap-fitting 90. Panels 86 can be mounted onto the frames by tilting the top of the panel 86 (i.e. the side of the panel having the hanger 88) towards an uppermost rail on the frame (e.g. the uppermost rail of lower frame 58). Each of the rails has a channel 92 into which hanger 88 is receivable and, once hanger 88 is hooked into the channel 92, the panel 35 86 can be pivoted such that it is hanging from hanger 88. The panel 86 can then be pushed into the frame until the snap fitting 90 passes the frame and snaps into place, - 14whereupon the panel 86 is securely held with respect to the frame. Another panel is placed on the opposite side of the frame in order to complete the module. As discussed above, the panel 86 can be provided in a variety of shapes and sizes, 5 and made from a variety of materials. The panels 86 are selectively removable and can easily be changed to suit particular circumstances. For example, if more light is required, solid panels could be replaced with panels containing opaque or clear glass, etc. 10 Although not shown in the drawings, apertures may be provided in the frames in order to provide passages via which wiring can be passed between the panels. Referring now to Figure 5, a junction joiner 94 is shown. Junction joiner 94 can be used on its own or in combination with other junction joiners (as will be described 15 below) in order to connect adjacent frames/modules at an angle to each other. Junction joiner 94 has a rail contacting portion 96, as well as first and second joiner contacting portions in the form of groove 98 and rib 100. Junction joiner 94 also has grooves 101 on both sides. Junction joiner 94 also has apertures 102, which can be used to attach junction joiner 94 to a rail or corner joiner 20, aperture 104, which can 20 be used to bolt junction joiner 94 to a corner joiner 20, and apertures 106 (only one of which can be seen in Figure 5) for bolting junction joiner 94 to an adjacent junction joiner. Referring now to Figure 6, shown are two junction joiners 94 being used to hold first 25 108 and second 110 frames (or modules) together. Each junction joiner 94 is attached to its respective first 108 and second 110 frame. Although not essential, the junction joiners 94 are shown bolted to corner joiners 20 in order to provide for an even stronger and more stable structure. The rib 100 of one junction joiner 94 is received within the groove 98 of the other junction joiner 94 in order to appropriately 30 locate the junction joiners with respect to each other. A knob 112 of a rail 114 which extends for the entire height of the frame/module is received into grooves 101 and 101 of the adjacent junction joiners 94, 94 in order to further stabilise their connection (rail 114 can also provide an acoustic seal at the junction). A nut and bolt 116 can then be passed through apertures 106, 106 and tightened in order to securely join 35 the two junction joiners 94, 94, and hence the two frames 108 and 110 at right angles to each other. -15- As will be appreciated, a number of such connections would need to be provided at spaced intervals across the height of the module. It is envisaged that 3 of these connections would be sufficient for a demountable structure in an average height building. A cap 118 can also be provided that runs for the entire height of the 5 structure in order to make the joint more aesthetically pleasing. In some circumstances (not shown), it may be necessary to join two frames at a 45 degree angle. In such circumstances, a single junction joiner could be used, with one frame being bolted to the junction joiner via an aperture, and the other via another aperture. 10 A similar system can be used to join three or four frames, as can be seen in Figures 7 and 8 respectively. Figure 9 shows an embodiment of the joiner of the second aspect of the invention. 15 This joiner can be used to join the frames of panels containing glass, as will be described below, but it is to be appreciated that the joiner of the second aspect of the invention has broader application than use only in the demountable structure of the first aspect of the invention. 20 As can be seen in Figure 9, joiner 200 has first 202 and second 204 arms. Each of the first 202 and second 204 arms has grooves 206 which have angled side walls. The angle of the side walls is about 45 degrees, but this could be varied if desired. First arm 202 is adapted to be inserted into the interior of a first rail 208. Similarly, second arm 204 is adapted to be inserted into the interior of a second rail 210. First 25 208 and second 210 rails have angled ends which, when the rails are joined at right angles to each other, form a substantially flush join. First 208 and second 210 rails have the same features, which will now be described with respect to the second rail only. Second rail 210 has a channel 212 and 30 apertures 214. Apertures 214 are spaced apart by a similar distance to grooves 206. The channel 212 is adapted to receive and retain a threaded block 216 therein. Once the threaded block 216 is received in the channel 212, it can slide up and down it (i.e. longitudinally along the channel), but can only get out of the channel at either end of the rail 210. Threaded block 216 includes two threaded bores 218, which are 35 aligned with apertures 214 and grooves 206, and are adapted to receive two grub screws 220. - 16- In use, the second arm 204 is inserted into the second rail 210. The threaded block 216 is slid into the channel 212 and apertures 218 are aligned with apertures 214. The grub screws 220 are then screwed into the threaded block 216 until they pass through apertures 214 and enter into and engage the angled side walls of the 5 grooves 206. A similar procedure is carried out so that the first rail 208 is joined to the second rail 210 via the joiner 200. The ends of the first 208 and second 210 rails are now roughly in alignment. Tightening of the grubscrews 220 that are abutting the angled side walls of the grooves 206 of the second arm 204 will now cause the second rail 210 to move further onto the second arm 204. Similarly, tightening of the 10 grubscrews 220 that are abutting the angled side walls of the grooves 206 of the first arm 202 will now cause the first rail 208 to move further onto the first arm 202. In this manner, first 208 and second 210 rails can be drawn together such that an almost perfect joiht between the two is formed, simply by tightening and loosening the grubscrews on the appropriate arms. 15 It will be appreciated that the joiner of the second aspect of the invention can be used to produce a high quality join, where there is almost no likelihood of a sharp edge being present. The join is also very aesthetically pleasing. 20 Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that any modifications or changes to the particular embodiments described above which could be made without the need for inventiveness or without departing from the spirit of the invention, are included within the scope of the invention. 25 In the claims which follow and in the preceding description of the invention, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the 30 invention. -17-
    权利要求:
    Claims (27)
    [1] 1. A demountable structure comprising: a plurality of frames, each frame being defined by peripheral rails joined by corner 5 joiners, each corner joiner comprising: first and second portions adapted to receive thereat respective ends of first and second peripheral rails, whereby corner joiners in adjacent in-line frames are clampable together in order 10 to join the adjacent frames.
    [2] 2. The demountable structure of claim 1, wherein the first and second portions are slidably receivable inside the peripheral rails. 15
    [3] 3. The demountable structure of claim 1 to claim 2, wherein the first and second portions comprise channels into which corresponding ribs of the peripheral rails are receivable.
    [4] 4. The demountable structure of any one of claims I to 3, wherein the first and 20 second portions are first and second arms.
    [5] 5. The demountable structure of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first and second portions are perpendicular to each other. 25
    [6] 6. The demountable structure of any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the corner joiners further comprise apertures adapted to receive fasteners for fastening the first and second peripheral rails to the first and second portions respectively.
    [7] 7. The demountable structure of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a 30 raising portion locatable underneath a lowermost frame and operable to raise or lower the height of the lowermost frame from the ground.
    [8] 8. The demountable structure of claim 7, wherein the raising portion comprises a floor contacting surface, a lowermost frame contacting surface and a telescopic 35 adjustment operable to increase or decrease the distance between the floor contacting surface and the lowermost frame contacting surface. -18-
    [9] 9. The demountable structure of any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a ceiling contacting portion locatable above an uppermost frame and operable to bridge any gap between the uppermost frame and a ceiling. 5
    [10] 10. The demountable structure of claim 9, wherein the ceiling contacting portion is attachable to the ceiling and comprises one or more tongues adapted to be received at a corresponding channel in the uppermost frame.
    [11] 11. The demountable structure of any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising one or 10 more junction joiners, wherein the or each junction joiner is adapted to be attached to the peripheral rails of a plurality of frames, and wherein the one or more junction joiners are arrangeable such that the plurality of frames can be joined at an angle to each other. 15
    [12] 12. The demountable structure of claim 11, wherein a first junction joiner is attached to a first frame and a second junction joiner is attached to a second frame, the first and second junction joiners comprising surfaces adapted to abut one another when the first and second frames are at right angles to each other. 20
    [13] 13. The demountable structure of claim 11, wherein a first junction joiner is attached to a first frame, a second junction joiner is attached to a second frame and a third junction joiner is attached to a third frame, the first, second and third junction joiners comprising surfaces adapted to abut one another when the first, second and third frames define a T-shape. 25
    [14] 14. The demountable structure of claim 11, wherein a first junction joiner is attached to a first frame, a second junction joiner is attached to a second frame, a third junction joiner is attached to a third frame and a fourth junction joiner is attached to a fourth frame, the first, second, third and fourth junction joiners comprising 30 surfaces adapted to abut one another when the first, second, third and fourth frames define a cross shape.
    [15] 15. The demountable structure of any one of claims 12 to 14, whereby clamping the junction joiners together joins the frames. 35
    [16] 16. The demountable structure of any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the or each junction joiner is adapted to be attached to the corner joiner of the frame. - 19-
    [17] 17. The demountable structure of any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the frames are adapted to receive panels thereon. 5
    [18] 18. The demountable structure of claim 17, wherein the panels comprise a hanger at an upper portion thereof, the hanger being adapted to be received in a respective groove in an uppermost peripheral rail of the frame.
    [19] 19. The demountable structure of claim 17 or claim 18, wherein the panels comprise 10 a snap fitting that is adapted to hold the panel in place once installed on the frame.
    [20] 20. The demountable structure of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the panels are selected from the group consisting of: fibreboard, glass, whiteboard and pin board 15 panels.
    [21] 21. The demountable structure of any one of claims 1 to 20, wherein the frames further comprise apertures via which wiring can be passed throughout the demountable structure. 20
    [22] 22. The demountable structure of any one of claims 1 to 21, further comprising doors and windows.
    [23] 23. A joiner for joining first and second members, the joiner comprising: 25 first and second arms adapted to be received at respective ends of the first and second members, the first and second arms each comprising a groove comprising an angled side wall, whereby tighteners passing through the first and second members can engage 30 the angled side walls of the first and second arms respectively, and whereby tightening the tighteners moves the tighteners further into the groove and causes the first and second members to be drawn together.
    [24] 24. The joiner of claim 23, wherein the first and second arms are slidably receivable 35 inside the first and second members. - 20 -
    [25] 25. The joiner of claim 23 or claim 24, wherein the first and second arms are perpendicular to each other.
    [26] 26. The joiner of any one of claims 23 to 25, wherein the tighteners are screws that 5 pass through a threaded bore before they can engage the angled side walls of the first and second arms.
    [27] 27. The joiner of claim 26, wherein the threaded bore is in a block that is slidably locatable in a groove on an outside of the first and second members. 10 - 21 -
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    AU2013203854B2|2016-09-01|
    引用文献:
    公开号 | 申请日 | 公开日 | 申请人 | 专利标题
    NZ222442A|1986-11-07|1991-05-28|Shiavello Bros Vic Pty Ltd|Partition panel|
    US6141926A|1995-10-26|2000-11-07|Tetrad Marketing/Sales Ltd.|Panel construction and connection system|
    法律状态:
    2017-01-05| FGA| Letters patent sealed or granted (standard patent)|
    优先权:
    申请号 | 申请日 | 专利标题
    AU2012905638A|AU2012905638A0||2012-12-21|A demountable structure|
    AU2012905638||2012-12-21||
    AU2013203854A|AU2013203854B2|2012-12-21|2013-04-11|A demountable structure|AU2013203854A| AU2013203854B2|2012-12-21|2013-04-11|A demountable structure|
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