Abstract: A cooler partition providing a top side, a bottom side being in spaced relation to the top side, a first side connecting a first distal end of the top side to a first distal end of the bottom side, a second side being in spaced relation to the first side, the second side connecting a second distal end of the top side to a second distal end of the bottom side, a center portion having a plurality of openings therethrough, at least one clamp projecting outwardly from the first side, the clamp having first and second opposed side portions, the first side portion and the second side portion being in spaced relation to one another and defining a post-receiving pocket therebetween, and, at least one hinge provided in the second side, the at least one hinge including a post and a clamp-receiving slot provided through the insert between the post and the center portion.

Abstract: A combination partition wall includes a plurality of unit partition wall panels each comprised of a vertical left frame bar, a vertical right frame bar, a horizontal top frame bar and a horizontal bottom frame bar connected in parallel between the vertical left frame bar and the vertical right frame bar at top and bottom sides, and two face panels connected in parallel at front and rear sides between the vertical left frame bar and vertical right frame bar and the horizontal top frame bar and horizontal bottom frame bar, at least one horizontal top rail respectively covered on the horizontal top frame bars of the unit partition wall panels at the top, at least one horizontal bottom rail respectively covered on the horizontal bottom frame bars of the unit partition wall panels at the bottom, a plurality of first coupling plates respectively mounted on the vertical left frame bars of the unit partition wall panels and the horizontal bottom rail for coupling the vertical left frame bar of one unit partition wall

Abstract: The invention relates to a kind of improved structure multifunction partition, specifically referring to a kind of structure offering an innovative improvement over shortcomings, such as uninteresting and monotonous features, of conventional partitions and which consists of partition units having a number of pivot openings of predetermined dimension and rotating mounts at the center of the interior sides of the top and bottom ends. The rotating mounts are capable of holding interchangeable photographs, pictures, compact disks (CD), or optical disks which thereby allows the user to switch or change photographs or rotate to replace the background, or to display compact disks (CD) or optical disks, which demonstrates the enhanced function of the partition structure in terms of practical application.

Abstract: A portable barrier apparatus is disclosed in this specification defining a multi-sectioned barrier for protection against wind and sand in various outdoor environments. Additionally the barrier may assembled and used as a child or pet restraint enclosure, a privacy barrier, or a temporary personal effect storage site. The apparatus includes a connected plurality of flexible barrier panel members which may be supported in an upright manner with a plurality of pole members. The apparatus further includes a protective panel member which generally covers the barrier panel members in an undeployed configuration. The invention provides a compact transport-configured package for user carrying of the barrier.

Abstract: Movable partition elements and a hinge to connect the partition elements to each other. The partition elements can be swung on the hinge toward one another until they are substantially parallel to each other. The hinge can have stacked or crossed connecting arms seated in or braced against connecting elements attached to the partition elements. The hinge can also have a retainer which passes through a penetration in each of the connecting elements. The retainer can be inserted into or connected to the partition elements by the retainer shank. The retainer further can separate the connecting arms from each other. The retainer finally can be designed to form or support the axle arms on which the connecting arms can rotate.

Abstract: A portable adjustable partition is provided. The partition includes a first base barrier member and a second base barrier member wherein the first base barrier member is pivotably connected to the second base barrier member. First and second slidable barrier members are connected to the first base barrier member and the second base barrier member, respectively. A first glide member is connected to the first telescoping barrier member and a second glide member is connected to the second telescoping barrier member. A pivot limiter is attached to one of the first base barrier member and the second base barrier member.

Abstract: A collapsible activity center (10) includes a frame (12) which has pivotally connected thereto a wall (14) and a wall (16). The frame (12) includes a support leg (24) connected to a hinge leg (26) by a cross-piece (28). The hinge leg (26) is provided with a pair of transversely extending ribs (54) that engage a rib (84) extending from each wall (14, 16) to allow pivotal movement of each. A latitudinal detent (94) is provided on the rib (84) to engage the hinge leg (26) to allow the walls (14, 16) to be selectively held in position with respect to the frame (12). The cross-piece (28) includes a handle opening (30) while the support leg (24) includes a lip (46) to assist in carrying the walls (14, 16) when they are closed and the frame (12) is lifted.

Abstract: The present invention is a low cost, easy to operate, and ever handy device of blocking views of accidents, stalled cars or other incidents. This is accomplished by an accident shield device unit installed in the trunk of official vehicles which can be assembled by a single person in a few minutes. The unit consists of a screen which is large enough to prevent most passersby (motorists or pedestrians) from viewing the scene. As a result, this device aids in maintaining traffic flow and safety by preserving the natural momentum of traffic and keeping other drivers focused on traffic conditions, rather than the accident scene or stalled vehicle.

Abstract: A panel assembly includes a number of rectangular panels each carrying solar cells or a cooling radiator on one of the two main surfaces, where the panels are interconnected mutually by hinges such that the assembly from a first state, in which the panels are folded into a package, can be brought into a second state in which the package is unfolded and the panels are situated alongside each other. A torsion element substantially extends across the other main surface of each panel from a first position on the hinge axis between the panel and the adjoining panel at one side, to a second position on the hinge axis between the panel and the adjoining panel at the other side, whereby the torsion element at or near the first and second positions is attached to the respective adjoining panel.

Abstract: Self-latching deployment apparatus for a multi-paneled solar array comprises at least first and second in-line panels pivotally connected together for rotation about an in-line hinge axis between stowed and deployed positions. A first deployment and locking mechanism maintains the in-line panels in the deployed position. First and second side panels are pivotally attached to opposite edges of the second in-line panel for rotation between stowed and deployed positions about secondary and tertiary hinge axes, respectively, transverse to the in-line hinge axis between the first and second in-line panels. A first restraint mechanism is engaged with the first side panel to temporarily overpower a drive mechanism for the first side panel and thereby temporarily maintain the first side panel in the stowed position but becomes disengaged from the first side panel when the first and second in-line panels reach the deployed position to enable the first side panel to move to the deployed position.

Abstract: A portable wall partition having a three point pivoting 360.degree. articulate pinch less hinge connecting two panels which may pivot 360.degree. with respect to each other. The hinge has two opposing couplers, each having a toothed semicircular portion meshed with the opposing coupler toothed semicircular portion. Each coupler is adapted to be connected to one of the panels to be pivoted with respect to each other. A pin is in each coupler extending along an axis of the semicircular portion thereof. A link connects each pin to maintain the meshed engagement of the couplers through 360.degree. of coupler pivotal rotation with respect to each other. The link has a sufficient width substantially that of the width of the coupler body as to block and prevent the meshed semicircular portions from pinching an individual's finger or object. The portable wall partition has two full panel end members which provide support, rigidity, privacy, and noise reduction.

Abstract: A storage partition adapted for partitioning an area proximate a corner or along a flat wall having a partitioning means selectively repositionable between (a) a first position wherein access to the area is prohibited and (b) a second position wherein unimpeded rolling access to the area, via a floor surface, is permissible.

Abstract: A children's play structure includes a frame having hinging structures capable of being arranged into a free-standing structure and at least one interchangeable panel capable of removable attachment to the frame. The frame is easily assembled and is foldable into a compact structure when not in use. In another embodiment, a children's play structure comprises a unitary piece of relatively rigid, resilient plastic that has been scored in a generally vertical direction to create joints which form foldable frame sections. Interchangeable panels may be attached thereto by means of complementary pairs of hook and loop fasteners attached to the panels and to the frame sections. Alternatively, panels may be removably attached thereto by means of closed loop fasteners such as "O" rings. Such structures are stackable to form a multi-level play structure.

Abstract: A portable wall assembly and methods of making same include support columns made from thin flexible sheets rolled into free standing cylinders. Wall panels also made from thin flexible sheets may be attached to the support columns. After disassembly of the wall, the sheets can be spiraled into a nested circular bundle for storage and transportation.

Abstract: A connector attaches panel elements such as wall panels, shelves, columns and the like to assemble modular structures. The connector frictionally engages the surfaces of elongated channels at the edge of the panels to be joined. The connector includes a contoured base section complementary with the channel of a first panel, to which the connector can optionally be screwed. A deformable cam section is carried on an intermediate section for receipt in the channel of the second panel. The cam section preferably has opposite cantilever arms which engage flanges of the anchor channels and the arms are tapered to deform inwardly of the channel for friction and inwardly from the joint so as to draw the panels together.

Abstract: A barrier for delimiting spaces, indicating paths, pointing out dangers and the like, comprising a tubular frame which has a closed shape and to which a sheet-like element made of extruded plastics and closed in a loop can be applied, the sheet-like element being anchored to two mutually opposite portions of the frame by shrinkage produced by a thermal treatment.

Abstract: A portable display board (10) is disclosed. The portable display board (10) comprises a center portion (12), a left portion (14) hingedly attached to the center portion (12) and a right portion (16) hingedly attached to the center portion (12). Also included is a header (20), hingedly attached to the center portion (12). The header (20) comprises a center header portion (24), a left header portion (22) hingedly attached to the center header portion (24) and a right header portion (26) hingedly attached to the center header portion (24). To assemble, the left portion (14) and the right portion (16) move inwards towards the center portion (12). The header portion (20) folds over and secures onto the left portion (14), the right portion (16) and the center portion (12) in such a way as to hold the left portion (14) and the right portion (16) at a correct angle relative to the center portion (12) for maximum stability. The portable display board (10) is also operable to fold up into a transportable configuration.

Abstract: The invention relates to a display unit end section, wherein the end section has a closed, curved cross-sectional shape and is comprised of a bendable sheet having mutually opposite edge portions which are each provided with a first coupling element forming part of the respective two-part coupling mechanism. Respective second corresponding coupling elements of the two-part coupling mechanism are attached to a rail. The rail includes a first coupling element of a further two-part coupling mechanism adapted for coaction with a corresponding second coupling element placed on the edge-part of the display unit.

Abstract: A utility distribution system is provided for modular furniture of the type comprising individual furniture units which are juxtaposed to form one or more workstations. A signal conductor is positioned in each furniture unit, and extends generally between opposite sides thereof. Quick-disconnect connectors are provided at the opposite ends of each of the signal conductors, and mate with like quick-disconnect connectors in adjacent furniture units to create a communications network through the workstations. Each furniture unit has a signaler physically associated therewith, which is connected with an associated signal conductor at a coupler. A network controller is operably connected to the network to evaluate the network and/or the associated furniture units. The furniture units may be equipped with one or more utility ports, which are connected with the coupler, and service utility appliances, such as personal computers, telephones, facsimile machines, switches, power outlets, data receptacles, and the like.

Abstract: A portable barrier apparatus is disclosed in this specification defining a multi-sectioned barrier for protection against wind and sand in various outdoor environments. Additionally the barrier may assembled and used as a child or pet restraint enclosure, a privacy barrier, or a temporary personal effect storage site. The apparatus includes a connected plurality of flexible barrier panel members which may be supported in an upright manner with a plurality of pole members. The apparatus further includes a bag or similar device for transporting the barrier in an undeployed configuration. The invention provides that the bag can be independently utilized away from the barrier. The invention further provides an accessory enclosure structure which is attachable to the barrier.

Abstract: An integrated prefabricated furniture system is provided for fitting-out a building room of the type having a generally open plan interior and having at least one utility source. The furniture system includes a plurality of horizontal beam segments interconnected in an end-to-end fashion to form a rigid overhead framework configured to be positioned above the floor surface. A plurality of overhead support columns each have an upper portion rigidly connected with the overhead framework, and a lower portion shaped to support the overhead framework on a floor in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation above average user height. Each of the overhead support columns includes an interior support structure in a generally X-shaped plan-form defining vertical raceways between adjacent legs of the cross-section.

Abstract: An acoustic panel system is provided for partially acoustically isolating a portion of a space in, for example, a recording studio. The acoustic panel system is modular in design and includes a plurality of different sized acoustic panels which can be assembled together in various configurations to form complete or partial acoustically isolated areas within a space. The acoustic panel system includes wall mount members, wall panels, floor panels, ceiling panels, transparent viewing panels and door panels. The wall mount members are basically partial members either permanently or removably interconnected with the walls of a space. The wall panels can be interconnected with the wall mount members. The wall panels may include casters for facilitating the movement thereof, and may also include feet for supporting the panels on uneven flooring.

Abstract: This invention relates to an upright partition for use in a modular office furniture system, the partition comprising: a frame comprising: two vertical posts each having outward opposing faces defining spaced apart parallel forward and rearward planes; a plurality of horizontal beams, at least one beam in each said plane, each beam having an inward face and an outward face, the inward face of each beam being connected to one said outward face of an associated post in an overlapping moment resisting connection; and a plurality of cladding panels each connected to one said beam; whereby an internal cavity is defined inward of the outward faces of said beams, and a raceway is defined outward of said outward post faces and inward of the outward faces of said beams.

Abstract: A children's play structure includes a frame having hinge structures that enable the structure to be arranged into a free-standing structure having a variety of adjustable positions. Interchangeable panels can be provided for removable attachment to the structure. At least one of the panels may include an article mounting sheet configured to receive articles such as drawings, photographs, and the like in one or more transparent pockets. The frame is easily assembled and is foldable into a compact structure when not in use. A hinge mount structure having two mounting posts facilitates assembly, disassembly, folding, and adjustable positioning, and affords structural stability to the free-standing play structure. In particular, such a hinge structure allows adjoining frames to be mounted at the same level and to be freely pivoted independently of one another. Further, a coupling structure enables portions of the play structure to be divided into segments that can be attached upon assembly.

Abstract: A connector assembly for connecting and locking tubular elements in preselected angular relationships. The connector assembly includes a pair of clevis having tube engaging elements at one end and three clevis rings at the other. The clevis rings of each clevis are interengaged and define a bore. The bore has a plurality of grooves therein. Locking elements, including a locking pin and a locking plug are inserted in the bore. The locking pin and locking plug each have a pair of opposed raised ribs and a pair of opposed resilient locking arms that engage the grooves in the bore. Detents on the ends of the resilient arms engage a space between the interengaged clevis rings to secure the locking elements in place. The tubular elements can be interconnected in a system of frames to suspend function and decorative panels.

Abstract: A panel structure comprises a frame members defining the perimeter of the panel structure. The frame members have a first side facing outwardly of the panel structure and an opposed side facing inwardly. A panel member extends between the frame members and is engagable therewith. The panel member comprises an inner honeycomb core constructed from cellulosic material and having a pair of opposed side faces and a pair of opposed side panel members having a first side facing outwardly of the panel structure and an opposed side facing inwardly. Each of the opposed side faces is affixed to a respective side of the honeycomb core. The side panels are constructed essentially from material which, when not affixed to the honeycomb core, is non-structural and, when affixed to the honeycomb core, has a tensile strength sufficient to prevent compressive movement of the opposed side of the honey comb core.

Abstract: A space-dividing screen assembly comprising a pair of height-adjustable support posts and a flexible fabric screen having the opposite ends thereof connected to the support posts. The support posts include vertically movable outer tubes to which the opposite ends of the screen are connected. Vertical movement of the outer tubes permits adjustment of the height of the screen. The outer tube is rotatable so as to allow winding up of the flexible fabric onto the outer surface of the outer tube. Also, additional screens can be suspended from the support posts while the opposite free ends of the screens are supported by additional support posts to provide a readily adjustable privacy screen arrangement.

Abstract: Adjacent backdrop panels and a suspended canopy comprising a stage shell, wherein the backdrop panels include angular alignment devices for readily and accurately aligning adjacent panels to present a pleasing, uniform appearance and tilt aligning devices to readily align the angle of tilt of the backdrop panels. The suspended canopy formed of individual canopy panels having rotatable hinge devices for storing the canopy panels in a substantially vertical position and having a readily engageable stay assembly for accurately fixing the relative angle of the canopy panels when deployed in a performance position above the backdrop panels.

Abstract: This invention relates to a space-dividing wall panel system having a plurality of base panels which are serially connectable one with the other to define a vertically enlarged wall supported on a floor. Each base panel is defined by at least one horizontal box-beam rigidly connected to a pair of laterally spaced apart vertical uprights which are connected at the opposite ends of the box-beam and have a reduced thickness compared thereto. With this clearance between the faces of the box-beam and the uprights, the box-beam, cross rails at the ends of the uprights as well as additional extension panels are formed with longitudinally extending channels which are positioned free of interference with the vertical uprights and aligned with serially-adjacent channels of serially-adjacent wall panels.

Abstract: In a light-tight enclosure, elongate members and joint connectors are joined to one another to form a framework to which panels having projecting ribs with right-angled corners are mounted. Each elongate member is extruded from aluminum so as to have open ended grooves. Each joint connector is fabricated from aluminum so as to have open ended grooves, some of which have right-angled corners conforming to right-angled corners of the projecting ribs. At each joint where elongate members and a joint connector are joined, the open-ended grooves merge with one another so as to define continuously extending grooves receiving the projecting ribs of the panels mounted to the framework at the joint. Some joint connectors are employed as corner connectors while other joint connectors are employed as edge connectors.

Abstract: A partition construction for subdividing a building space includes a partition frame having an open interior and defining a front side, a first cover covering a section of the partition frame with apertures for providing utility access, and a second cover slidably supported on the partition frame proximate the first cover. The second cover is slidable parallel the front side between a closed position covering the open interior and an open position providing access to utilities in the open interior. The second cover is semi-flexible so that it can be simultaneously slid along the partition frame and flexed away from the partition frame to a disengaged/removed position, thus allowing it to be removed even when the second cover is "trapped" on the partition frame by a furniture component attached to or positioned in front of the partition frame.

Abstract: This invention is concerned with a panel device which is useful in the display and furniture arts, the panel device incorporates a plurality of vertical supports which engage a plurality of panel members which are positioned in a planar relationship with each other, further the vertical supports are adapted to receive arcuate panel members, the planar and arcuate panels as used may be readily detached from each other, the planar panel members are pivotally attached to each other, the arcuate panel has two display surfaces, the arcuate panel may be readily converted from an arcuate to a flat stance for storage, further the planar and arcuate panels may be folded one on each other for storage, the arcuate panel section may be bent in either of two directions so as to provide a choice of either side to be utilized as the "showside" display surface.

Abstract: A clean-room wall including vertically extending wall profile members (2,4,6) against which one or several wall panels (10) are mounted. In their sides, facing the interior (14) of the room, the profiles are formed substantially parallel with the wall extending flanges (8) against which the wall panel is arranged from the outside, as seen from the interior of the room. Fastening mechanisms (12) are arranged at the outside of the wall panel for fastening of the panel to the profile flange members.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a structural support post (1) for use in a partition system (2) for supporting one or more panels (6) having panel support brackets (25) with hooks (44) at or in the vicinity of edges of the panel. The post (1) comprises a profile tube having a diameter of at least 70 mm and a multiplicity of angularly spaced longitudinal undercut slots (13), the walls of the slots being provided with insert plates (24) formed and arranged for engagement by hooks (44) provided on the panel support brackets (25). The support posts (1) may provide, in use, a substantially secure support for a security partitioning system (2).

Abstract: A portable fencing system includes a plurality of fence sections each of which terminates in feet which are selectively mounted in base blocks. Each base block includes a section made in the form of a skin having a hollow chamber therein with filler material inserted in the chamber.

Abstract: A cabinet having a wall comprising an inner wall and an outer wall attached to the inner wall. A strengthening piece or material is positioned between the inner wall and the outer wall to provide strength and rigidity to the wall. Preferably, the strengthening piece or material has a honeycomb structure.

Abstract: A modular partition system comprising a pair of panels (12) united by a hinge. Each panel (12) includes a frame (18) constituted by rectilear frame members (18a-d) united in a non-collinear relationship. The frame members (18a-d) are releasably connected at mating ends by a set of fastener-free tongue and groove joints. The frame members (18a-d) have longitudinally extending channels (28) providing the frame with a continuous inwardly facing groove for receiving the peripheral edges of a flat panel member (20).

Abstract: A partition framework for dividing a space into small compartments is composed of a plurality of frame parts having an upright support, a plurality of connection heads, and at least one connect in column. The upright support is provided with a plurality of fastening holes and through holes. The connection heads have a base, a hollow projection and a stepped hollow projection. The connection column is provided with at least two slide slots extending along the direction of the longitudinal axis of the connection column.

Abstract: A portable display includes a central display panel and opposite side tubular hollow end panels or columns constructed from a single sheet of substantially resilient elongated material. Each column is formed by rolling a side edge portion rearward bringing a tubular polygonal reinforcing member carried by each side edge portion into magnetically attracted sectirement with another hollow member. Hubs are inserted into the interior of the side columns to lend rigidity thereto, and two such displays or display sections can be stacked one relative to the other to transform a table-top display to a floor display. In this stacked configuration magnetically attractable securing elements hold the lower edge portion of an upper display section intimately relative to an upper edge portion of a lower display section.

Abstract: A connector for creating exhibits having one piece including a series of grooves (used for connecting panels) arranged at fixed angles with respect to each other. The connector also includes a second piece that is trapped within the other piece. The second piece has a groove that can be arranged at a range of angles with respect to the other grooves.

Abstract: A reusable lightweight folding screen or partition is composed of slim shallow panels interconnected in edge-to-edge abutment by a plurality of elastic thread means. The elastic thread means are disposed within each panel and extend between adjacent panels through corresponding apertures in the contacting edge wall of neighboring panels. The elastic thread means are adapted to maintain said panels in abutment and to permit the screen to fold along said edges. An anchorage flap adapted to anchor one end of the elastic thread means and to facilitate rigidity in the panel by spreading the load developed in the elastic thread means over an area of the panel is provided within each panel. Said anchorage flaps are positioned such that the elastic thread means extend without abrupt changes in direction between their anchorage points. Each panel comprises a rectilinear backing frame overlaid by a rectilinear cover sheet to provide a neat sharp edge about one face of the panel.

Abstract: The disclosed apparatus and system provides for two or more interacting screens that have elements such as shelves, tables, desks, lamps, lights, beds, sinks, ranges or drawers stored within the appropriate screen, when not in use, and in most instances suspended from the appropriate screen or screens, when in use. The screens and most of the elements interrelate when in a fully set up configuration. The screens with elements in the stored configuration may be moved against a wall, into a space in the wall or into a closet. The screens with elements in a set up configuration are stabilized by interacting hinges, locks and stabilization legs. The screens are also interconnected with conduits to permit utility, electrical, water and communications connections to be available at the appropriate screen. The system provides a quickly and easily set up and stored environment for use as a work, play, privacy or sleep area. Some of the elements are designed to be free standing when in use.

Abstract: A temporary office partition system is provided in which the partition is comprised of a plurality of partition panels, hinges, and bases. The panels are substantially flat, and have a bottom edge closely received in an associated partition base for support in a freestanding, substantially vertical, upright position. The base comprises at least two spaced-apart support portions disposed in a horizontally spaced relationship defining a panel receiving slot in which the panel is received. The base is supported on a floor surface in abutting fashion by laterally spaced-apart foot portions. Hinges comprising two oppositely outward facing U-shaped channels are shaped to closely receive the side edges of the panels and the U-shaped channels are interconnected by a flexible web to permit adjacent panels to be positioned in a mutually angular relationship.

Abstract: A rodent pest infestation prevention assembly includes a wall for surrounding a predetermined area so as to enclose items, a plurality of top and bottom slits in the wall for making interlocking connection with one another for fastening end portions of the wall together so as to make the wall a substantially continuous structure about an item, and at least one holder member for maintaining the wall in an upright position. The wall may also have a plurality of spaced apart holes formed therein. At least one mateable bolt and nut combination are installed through aligned holes to secure overlapped end portions of the wall to one another and thereby serve the same function as the top and bottom slits of the wall. Each holder member has a base and a pair of elongated pegs. The base has a transverse groove and a pair of recessed holes on adjacent opposite sides of the groove. The groove is for receiving a bottom edge of the wall therein.

Abstract: A locking device for releasable connection of frame members and knock-down structures. The device includes a first rail having a front wall provided with a slot. A second rail has a front wall provided with a slot. The front walls of the first and second rails are positionable in confronting relationship with one another. An elongated member has at least one hook extending therefrom. The elongated member is disposed on a back side of the front wall of the first rail with the hook extending through the slots of the first and second rails. The elongated member is movable along a longitudinal axis of the first rail from an unlocked position to a locked position with the hook engageable with the second rail. A pin structure engages transversely between the first and second rail for holding the first and second rail in fixed alignment with one another to prevent relative movement between the first and second rails in a plane generally coplanar with the front walls of the first and second rails.

Abstract: A system for connecting wall panels in abutting edgewise relation, wherein abutting edges of the panels are formed with semi-circular recesses in them, includes pairs of spaced slots formed in the corners defining transverse semi-circular edges of the panel frames. Two connectors are provided having conical recesses for engaging the edges of the slots. The connectors are each fastened by a screw to an end of an elongate bar which fits within the recesses of the corners. When the connectors are fastened tightly to the bar, the engagement of the conical recesses with the corner edges draws the panels tightly together. By this system, the panels may be connected either in-line or at an angle of between 90 and 180 degrees, without the need for any special corner hardware.

Abstract: A wall panel assembly for use in providing an open plan system to define separate areas. An L shaped connector bracket is utilized to join two panels together in an L configuration, three panels together in a T configuration, or four panels together in an X configuration. In each case one leg of the bracket is secured to an end edge of the first wall panel and the other leg of the bracket is secured to the end edge of a second panel. Where only two panels are being joined in an L configuration, a ball end edge of an L shaped trim post is positioned at one end edge in a socket groove defined by the connector bracket and rotated to bring another ball end edge of the trim panel into snapping coaction with a socket groove defined on another end edge of the connector bracket.

Abstract: A first panel is hinged to a second panel by first, second, and third straps, which are flexible. Each strap is secured to the first panel, near a first end of such strap, and to the second panel, near a second end of such strap. Each strap passes through a slot of the first panel, partly around an edge portion of the first panel, partly around an edge portion of the second panel, and through a slot in the second panel. The first and second straps pass in generally opposite directions between the edge portions of the first and second panels so as to appear to cross each other when viewed along the edge portions thereof. The second and third straps pass in generally opposite directions between the edge portions of the first and second panels so as to appear to cross each other when viewed along the edge portions thereof.

Abstract: A connector assembly for connecting and locking tubular elements in preselected angular relationships. The connector assembly includes a pair of clevis having tube engaging elements at one end and three clevis rings at the other. The clevis rings of each clevis are interengaged and define a bore. The bore has a plurality of grooves therein. Locking elements, including a locking pin and a locking plug are inserted in the bore. The locking pin and locking plug each have a pair of opposed raised ribs and a pair of opposed resilient locking arms that engage the grooves in the bore. Detents on the ends of the resilient arms engage a space between the interengaged clevis rings to secure the locking elements in place. The tubular elements can be interconnected in a system of frames to suspend function and decorative panels.

Abstract: An expandable, collapsible barrier includes first and second endposts connected by an expandable, collapsible lattice structure. The barrier is provided with a handle mounted to one of the endposts and a handle receiving tube mounted to the other of the endposts. The handle receiving tube can receive the handle of a second barrier to hingedly interconnect two barriers. A latch bar is pivotally mounted to one of the end posts and a sleeve is provided on the other endpost. The latch bar and sleeve cooperated to lock the barrier in a collapsed position. When in the collapsed position, the barrier can be carried by the handle. Mounting brackets are provided for placing flags, lamps, and signboards on the barrier. The signboard bracket enables the signboard to be level at all stages of expansion of the barrier without the need to adjust the signboard.