Flexible or portable closure – partition – or panel – With filler and filler type
Utility Patent
1998-08-13
2001-01-02
Johnson, Blair M. (Department: 3634)
Flexible or portable closure, partition, or panel
With filler and filler type
C049S321000, C052S243100
Utility Patent
active
06167937
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to seal setting mechanisms for partition walls.
BACKGROUND
Partition walls are used for dividing convention halls into smaller meeting rooms. Typically the partition walls comprise several panels that are moved along a track mounted on the ceiling of the convention hall until the panels are in the desired location. Each panel is fixed in place, preferably with a seal between the panel and the floor. Once set up, the seal resists lateral forces applied to the partition wall.
Prior art seal setting mechanisms require the operator to lift a lever to cause pressure members to engage the floor. Some prior art sealing devices require a slot or groove, or a series of holes, to be provided in the floor of the room to further secure the panels to the floor.
SUMMARY
The present invention provides a seal setting mechanism for a partition wall panel. The seal setting mechanism includes an upper cross-member and a lower cross-member. The upper cross-member is pivotally interconnected with the panel at the leading edge, and the lower cross-member is pivotally interconnected with the panel at the trailing edge. A linking member interconnects the upper cross-member with the lower cross-member.
A long rod is pivotally interconnected with the upper cross-member and extends down to the bottom edge of the panel. A short rod is pivotally interconnected with the lower cross-member, and extends downwardly from the lower cross-member to the bottom edge of the panel. A sealing member is interconnected with the lower ends of the long and short rods.
The upper cross-member is pivoted downwardly, thereby causing the lower cross-member to also pivot downwardly. The long and short rods are thereby driven downwardly, pressing the sealing member against the floor.
In one aspect of the invention, a spring assembly is provided with each of the long and short rods. The spring assembly includes a foot tube having a spring plate welded therein. The long and short rods pass through the spring plate. Springs surround the long and short rods, and compress against the spring plate as the long and short rods are driven downwardly. After the desired amount of spring compression has been achieved, the upper cross-member is locked in place, and the sealing member is biased against the floor to provide a seal.
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Hufcor, Inc.
Johnson Blair M.
Michael & Best & Friedrich LLP
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