US20120280194A1

US20120280194A1 - Fence with pivotable panels

Info

Publication number: US20120280194A1
Application number: US13/574,761
Authority: US
Inventors: Svetislav Stanojevic
Original assignee: TRI ON GmbH
Current assignee: TRI ON GmbH
Priority date: 2010-01-22
Filing date: 2011-01-21
Publication date: 2012-11-08
Also published as: WO2011089011A1; EP2525686A1

Abstract

A partition fence comprises two posts and a panel, pivotally connected between said posts by rotary joints. At least one of the rotary joints has a first joint member, connected to the post and comprising a first rotary bearing unit, and a second joint member, connected to the panel and comprising a second rotary bearing unit. One of the two rotary bearing units radially surrounds the other. Stop faces of the second joint member stop against stop faces of a first joint member when the second joint member is rotated relative to the first joint member.

Description

The invention relates to a partition fence having panels arranged between the posts and in particular to a partition fence which panels can be pivoted to two sides.
Partition fences serve to provide a boundary between adjacent areas. In public areas, partition fences are used, e.g., to secure hazardous areas, to identify and confine particular utilization areas, such as, for example, waiting zones at stops, or as guiding means for presetting desired routes, e.g., in parks, stadiums or underground stations.
In addition to delimiting, partition fences are often also used to convey information, for the purpose of which the fences are provided with information carriers. Depending on the intended use of a fence, the contents provided on the information carriers differ, with the use of such information carriers for advertising purposes becoming increasingly important.
A partition fence, wherein a panel configured for accommodating information carriers is arranged between two posts, is known from International patent application WO 2007/071316 A1. The panel is connected to each of the posts via a pivot joint, which provides for a pivoting of the panel between the two horizontal end positions, which can be used, e.g., for sitting or depositing objects. When not in use, the panel automatically moves into the vertical position, which is located between the two horizontal positions, by means of a suitably chosen weight distribution. To limit the pivot angle, a bolt is provided on the panel, which engages with a guide groove provided on the pivot joint. As a result, there is a considerable risk that pieces of clothing are jammed and are damaged in the guide groove via the bolt, or that persons and in particular inexperienced children hurt themselves on this guide. The fence disclosed in WO 2007/071316 A1 further does not provide for a possibility for supplying electrical devices, which might be arranged in the panel.
Further barrier devices including folding seats are known from German patent application DE 43 24 920 A1 as well as from German utility model DE 295 01 720 U1.
In the light of the above, it is therefore desirable to provide a more secure partition fence. It is further desirable to provide a partition fence, which allows for the supply of an electrical device located within the panel.
Embodiments of a partition fence having a reduced risk of injury and the possibility of supplying electrical devices arranged in or on the pivotable panel comprise two posts, a panel arranged between the posts, and rotary joints, which are configured to rotatably connect the panel to the posts. The posts of these embodiments are configured to be fixedly connected to a floor or ground, and one of the posts includes in its interior a cavity, which can be accessed via at least one of its ends, and a lateral opening to this cavity. The panel also comprises a lateral opening. Each of the rotary joints is arranged between one of the posts and the panel, wherein at least one of the rotary joints includes a first joint member being connected to the post, with the cavity and comprising a first rotary bearing unit, and a second joint member, which comprises a second rotary bearing unit. The two rotary bearing units are hereby configured such that one of the two rotary bearing units surrounds the other in radial direction and such that the radially inner of the two rotary bearing units surrounds a cavity, which is connected to the lateral opening of the post via an opening in the first joint member, and which is connected to the lateral opening of the panel via an opening in the second joint member. The first joint member further comprises two first stop surfaces, which are arranged at a radial distance to the axis of rotation and within a first angle in relation to the axis of rotation. The second joint member comprises two second stop surfaces, which are arranged at a radial distance to the axis of rotation such that they can stop against the first stop surfaces when the second joint member is rotated relative to the first joint member, the second stop surfaces being arranged within a second angle in relation to the axis of rotation and the sum of the first angle with the second angle corresponds to a value in the range of from 230 to 280 degrees or to a value in the range of from 240 to 280 degrees, or to a value in the range of from 250 to 280 degrees, or to a value in the range of from 260 to 280 degrees or in the range of from 170 to 190 degrees. Instead of the afore-mentioned upper limit of the angular range of 280 degrees, an upper limit of the angular range of 270 degrees and in particular of less than 270 degrees, such as 265 degrees or 260 degrees, for example, can also be used, the lower limits of the angular range of 230 degrees or 240 degrees, or 250 degrees, or 260 degrees, remaining unchanged in each case. The sum of first and second angles is 270 degrees for a pivot angle of the panel of 90 degrees.
The pivotable panel of such a partition fence can thereby serve to convey information by attaching or inserting information carriers, as well as for providing a sitting or depositing possibility. The pivotable panel further makes it easier to pass objects from one side of the fence to the other, without having to lift these objects over the fence. The configuration of the partition fence with two posts provides for a stable fastening to a floor or ground, so that the partition fence is prevented from turning over even when exposed to greater loads. The rotary bearing units, which surround a cavity, which can be accessed from outside, provide for a compact configuration of the rotary joints including a closed lead-through, thus providing for the possibility of a protected cable guide from the post into the panel preventing the risk of injuries at the rotary joint effectively.
Rotary joints of advantageous embodiments thereof are each configured in a can-shaped manner with a central opening in the can bottom, wherein the rotary bearing unit, in the case of one of the two joint members, is formed by the outer lateral surface thereof and, and in the case of the other of the two pivot members, by the inner lateral surface thereof, which radially surrounds the outer lateral surface of the other joint member. As a result, a rotary joint form is obtained, that is closed to the outside and into which foreign objects, such as dust particles, e.g., cannot enter the rotary mechanism, or into which clothing or body parts, for example, can be jammed. The can shape combines a high operational safety with a high user safety.
Further advantageous embodiments comprise a rotary joint, wherein the rotary bearing unit in one of the two joint members is formed by a rolling bearing. Because of this, a low friction when rotating the joint is combined with a simultaneously high load capacity of the rotary joint. In the case of embodiments of this, the rolling bearing is conveniently arranged such that the axis of rotation of the rolling bearing corresponds to the axis of rotation of the rotary joint, so that the rotary joint itself does not have any rotation angle dependent impact on the force required for pivoting the panel. In further embodiments of a rotary joint having a rolling bearing, a hollow body preferably forms the rotary bearing unit of the other of the two joint members, wherein the hollow body is preferably configured such that it accommodates the rolling bearing in its interior or is accommodated in the interior of the rolling bearing.
In further advantageous embodiments, the rotary joint comprises a locking device, which, in locked position, fixes the second joint member in relation to the first joint member in a predetermined angle of rotation such that a certain minimum torsional moment is required for changing the angle of rotation. A corresponding locking device provides for a fixing of the panel in a predetermined rest position, which can be overcome with ordinary effort.
For an interlocking coupling to one of the posts, a clamping fitting, which partially surrounds the post and which comprises an outside profile complementary to the post is advantageously formed on the first joint.
Further embodiments of the partition fence comprise a first joint member, which includes at least one opening for accommodating a fastening means, such as, e.g., a screw, a nut, a rivet, a splint pin, a clamping rope or the like, for fastening a clamp or a clamping fitting of a further rotary joint. This provides for a simple mounting of an individual rotary joint, as well as for the simultaneous mounting of two rotary joints, which are arranged on opposite sides of a post, e.g.
For absorbing the impact energy when rotating the rotary joint into one of its stop positions, at least the first or second stop surfaces are formed of an elastic material, for example of a synthetic rubber or natural rubber. Preferred embodiments include first stop surfaces, which are formed by the side surfaces, which point in peripheral direction, of a partially annular first bracket. Further preferred embodiments include second stop surfaces, which are formed by the side surfaces of a partially annular second bracket, which point in the brackets peripheral direction. Corresponding brackets provide for a simple integration of the stop surfaces into the joint members and provide for a high stability.
In further preferred embodiments of the partition fence, the panel comprises a cavity for accommodating an information carrier, for example a printed paper, laminated paper (e.g. laminate of paper and foil, laminate of paper and adhesive layer, etc.), a printed plastic foil, an electronic display device or the like, wherein at least one side of the panel is advantageously formed by a transparent or lucent material so as to ensure the visibility of the information carrier from outside the panel. Examples for materials, which are suitable for this, can include polymethyl methacrylate, which is commonly also referred to as acrylic glass, thermoplastic polyesters, such as, e.g., the polyester distributed under the trademark Axpet®, and polycarbonates, such as, e.g., Lexan®. To facilitate an exchange of the information carrier, embodiments thereof comprise a closable opening for inserting an information carrier into the cavity of the panel and for removing the information carrier from the cavity of the panel.
Preferred embodiments of the partition fence comprise an illumination device, which is arranged in the cavity of the panel, and which thus provides access to the contents conveyed on the information carrier, which is arranged in the cavity, also at night or during unfavorable illumination situations.
To supply an electrical device arranged in the cavity of the panel, such as, e.g., the afore-described lighting or a data display unit, further embodiments of the partition fence advantageously comprise a cable, which is adapted for transferring electric energy and/or electric signals, which is arranged in the partition fence so as to lead through the cavity of the post and the cavity formed in the rotary joint into the lateral opening of the panel.
For improved stability, in particularly preferred embodiments of the partition fence the two posts are interconnected by a crossbar at those ends, which are not provided for being fastened on a ground or floor. The height of the posts can thereby be chosen such that the crossbar takes on the function of a backrest when the panel is used as a seat.
To prevent a post-oscillation of the panel when folding it up into the vertical position, a permanent magnet can be arranged, according to an embodiment, on the side of the crossbar, which faces the panel, and a further permanent magnet can be arranged opposite thereto on the side of the panel, which faces the crossbar. The permanent magnets are preferably accommodated within the crossbar or the panel, respectively. In the alternative or additionally, a permanent magnet can also be arranged in each case in at least one of the posts on the side facing the panel and in the panel on the side facing the at least one post. The magnets are in both cases arranged such that non-identical poles are located opposite one another.

Further features of the invention result from the following description of exemplary embodiments in combination with the claims as well as the Figures. It should be noted that the invention is not limited to the configurations of the described exemplary embodiments, but is determined by the scope of the enclosed patent claims. In embodiments according to the present invention, individual features can in particular be implemented in a different number and combination than in the examples explained below. In the following explanation of some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, reference is made to the enclosed Figures, of which.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a first embodiment of a partition fence having a pivotable panel,

FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of a second embodiment of a partition fence having a pivotable panel,

FIG. 3 a shows a schematic illustration of a third embodiment of a partition fence having a pivotable panel,

FIG. 3 b shows a schematic illustration of a fourth embodiment of a partition fence having a pivotable panel,

FIG. 3 c shows a schematic illustration of a fifth embodiment of a partition fence having a pivotable panel,

FIG. 4 shows a sixth embodiment of a partition fence having a pivotable panel in a schematic illustration,

FIG. 5 shows a seventh embodiment of a partition fence having pivotable panels in a schematic illustration,

FIG. 6 shows a first embodiment of a rotary joint for a partition fence according to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 7 in a schematic drawing,

FIG. 7 shows an eighth embodiment of a partition fence having pivotable panels in a schematic illustration,

FIG. 8 shows a second embodiment of a rotary joint for a partition fence according to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 7 in a schematic drawing,

FIG. 9 shows a third embodiment of a rotary joint for a partition fence according to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 7 in a schematic drawing,

FIG. 10 shows a fourth embodiment of a rotary joint for a partition fence according to FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 7 in a schematic drawing,

FIG. 11 a shows an eighth embodiment of a partition fence having pivotable panels in a schematic illustration and

FIG. 11 b shows a ninth embodiment of a partition fence having pivotable panels in a schematic illustration.

In the Figures, components serving substantially the same technical functions, are indicated by the same reference numerals. Different configurations of these components have similar reference numerals.
The schematic illustration of FIG. 1 shows a partition fence 100 having a panel 4 pivotably supported between two posts 1 and 2 by means of rotary joints 5 and 5′. A post is hereby understood to be an elongate supporting element for vertical installation. The term panel is used in this document in its general form, that is, to identify a flat body which front and rear side dimensions exceed the distance between these sides. Front and rear side of a panel can be formed so as to be planar, but also profiled, for example being provided with an indentation.
The panel 4 can optionally be pivoted from the vertical position, which is shown in the left illustration of FIG. 1, into the front or rear horizontal position, which is illustrated in the right illustration of FIG. 1. While the panel 4, in the vertical position, visually illustrates the area demarcation by the partition fence 100, the panel can be used as a seat or for depositing objects in its horizontal pivot positions. A pivoting of the panel into a horizontal position further also allows for passing through objects within easy reach. Preferably, the panel automatically pivots back into the vertical position when not in use.
In the shown illustration, the panel is provided with an information carrier 20, which, being preferably introduced into a cavity of the panel, is visible through the transparent or lucent front thereof. As is illustrated in FIG. 1, the content presented on the information carrier can serve for advertising purposes, but it can also contain information, which is relevant for the respective intended purpose of the partition fence 100: for example, the timetable for a public means of transportation, when the partition fence 100 serves to confine the stop area, or a note, such as, e.g. “no passage” or the like, or a graphic marker, such as, e.g., a light-reflecting striped pattern.
All known types of physical information carriers are suitable as information carrier 20, in particular including papers, plastic foils, light foils, animated light foils and electronic flat screens, which can be illuminated or backlit, such as, e.g., liquid crystal displays. The information carriers also include so-called electronic papers, which use, e.g., electrophoretic operations, electrowetting or micromechanically controlled interference modulation, as well as bistable liquid crystal displays. The electronic papers can use reflectors or can be backlit. Electronic papers require energy only during the change of the illustration conveyed thereon and are thus advantageous in particular in the case of isolated applications, where no external power connection is available. Instead of accommodating an information carrier, the panel can further also surround illumination devices, which illuminate different areas of the panel differently or also at different times, respectively, e.g., for animation purposes.
To accommodate and possibly illuminate an information carrier, the panel can be provided with one or a plurality of chamber-like cavities, which can preferably be accessed from a side surface of the panel 4, for example the side surface on the lower edge of the panel 4 in the left illustration of FIG. 1, for inserting and removing the information carrier again. A removable cover, which secures the storage of the information carriers in the panel 4 and which prevents a penetration of dirt and moisture, is preferably attached to this side surface. The fixing of the removable side part on the panel 4 can be accomplished using fastening means, such as, e.g., safety screws or magnets, when frequently exchanging the information carriers.
Alternative embodiments of the panel 4 comprise visible sides, that is, front and/or rear sides, which are imprinted from inside or outside, wherein an illumination device, which backlights the imprint and thus makes it well visible even in situations of unfavorable external illumination or at night, can be arranged between both sides. Such a direct printing on the visible sides of the panel is suitable, in particular when the content conveyed by the information carrier is valid for a long period of time or must not be replaced with a different content, respectively. Instead of printing on the visible sides of the panel, a foil-shaped information carrier, e.g., can also be adhered thereto.
When using foil-shaped information carriers, such as, e.g., paper or plastic foils or foil-shaped display devices in combination with an illumination device for backlighting the information carriers, the panel preferably comprises three chambers, two of which respectively adjoin an inner side of a visible side and the third one of which is arranged between the two other chambers for accommodating the illumination.
The panel can be formed in one piece, e.g. as a part, which is produced in an injection molding process or by blow molding. In particular, transparent, colorless or colored polycarbons, for example polyesters or so-called acrylic glasses, are suitable as material for this. On principle, all materials, which show a sufficiently high strength, impact resistance, stiffness and hardness, and which are preferably transparent and in particular lucent, are suitable.
Other embodiments of a panel 4 comprise a padding on one or on both side faces. In the cases, in which only one side face is provided with a padding, the other side surface can still be configured for accommodating information carriers, imprinted, transparent and can be illuminated or backlit from inside, as has been explained above. The padding can further be formed using translucent materials and can, in turn, serve as information carrier, e.g. by imprinting or weaving. Corresponding padded supports improve the seating comfort and are thus in particular suitable for areas with a high use frequency of seats with a simultaneously high sitting period, for example for waiting areas of public institutions, hospitals, train stations or airports.
In the embodiment of a partition fence 100 illustrated in FIG. 1, the panel 4 comprises a frame, which is formed of a metal profile, for example a U-profile. Suitable frame materials are metals, such as, e.g., aluminum, black steel or stainless steel, the surfaces of which can be finished by painting, powder-coating, glass bead blasting or other common surface treatments. Due to its low weight, its favorable mechanical characteristics and its high corrosion resistance, Al—Mg—Si (aluminum-magnesium-silicon alloy) has turned out to be particularly advantageous. It goes without saying that plastic profiles or profiles of naturally occurring materials, such as, e.g., wood, can also be used as frame elements. Front and rear side of the panel 4 and possibly also further partition walls located between these sides for creating further chambers can be enclosed by grooves of the frame, wherein the enclosed edges of the visible side plates are preferably thinned such that the outer surfaces of the plates connect continuously to the outer surfaces of the frame profile surrounding them. The plates, which are used as visible surfaces of the panel 4, can comprise a height profile, which provides for comfortably sitting thereon.
When using sheet-shaped or foil-shaped information carriers, the panel 4 comprises according to an embodiment a frame, which is bent in a U-shaped manner, between the frame elements of which an acrylic glass plate with a thickness of 4 mm is arranged on each of the two side surfaces. To create a flat seat towards the frame, the edges of the acrylic glass plates, which are covered by the frame, are formed so as to be offset to the non-covered surface according to the frame thickness. For example, the space surrounded by the U-shaped frame can be closed by means of acrylic glass plates having a thickness of 4 mm, wherein the edges of these plates are milled to a thickness of 2 mm in the overlapping area of the frame. Two steel plates made of non-corroding steel are each arranged at a distance of at least 0.2 mm and at most 4 mm below the acrylic glass plates in the interior of the frame and are held by the frame. The space between the two steel plates is filled with polystyrene. In the event that the sheet-shaped or foil-shaped information carrier is to be illuminated from inside the panel, a plate made of translucent material, for example of plastic or glass, replaces each of the two steel plates. The illumination takes place via a light source, which is arranged between the two translucent plates. In an embodiment, the joints of the acrylic glass plates to the frame are sealed against moisture and in particular against the penetration of liquids by means of a suitable sealant, e.g. neoprene. It is pointed out that the above-described panel design only represents one possible embodiment of the instant invention, and that the invention is not limited to this embodiment.
For example in a further embodiment, the space between the translucent outer plates, which are enclosed by the panel frame, can be filled by a foam element, which lends a comfortable resilience to the seat instead of a padding. Suitable foam elements can be made, e.g. of foamed polystyrene (EPS) or extruded polystyrene foam (XPS). In particular, close-pored foams are preferred, wherein a possible water absorption can be additionally minimized by, e.g., coating the foam with a foil. For illumination as well as for backlighting purposes, illuminants such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), e.g., can be arranged within the foam, being either inserted into openings formed on its edges or being layed in foam upon production of the foam element. In the alternative, the foam element can consist of two partial elements located next to one another, and between which the illuminants are arranged. A fixing of the two partial elements against one another, e.g. by means of adhesion, is generally not required, but can positively influence the long-term stability of the arrangement.
In addition to a symmetrical arrangement, as was described above, panels with an asymmetrical arrangement can also be used, for example when only one side of the panel is to serve to accommodate an information carrier, for example as advertising medium. The side located on the bottom in the case of a horizontal orientation of the panel, for example, can then be used as information carrier, and the side located on top in the case of a horizontal orientation of the panel, can comprise a padding, a ventilated seat (e.g. of a perforated plate) or the like. According to an embodiment, the panel as a whole, for example, can in this case consist of plastic (possibly foamed in the full volume or in a partial volume). Provision is made in the side, which is located on the bottom in the case of a horizontal orientation of the panel, for a recess, in which the information carrier 20 (e.g. advertising medium) can be arranged. This recess can be closed, for example, by an acrylic glass panel. The instant invention, however, is not limited to the above panel design.
Instead of the above-described removable side face, the opening of the panel 4 can also be closed by material bonding, e.g., by means of an adhesive strip, after inserting information carriers and/or electric devices. The opening of the panel 4 can also be sealed against moisture and in particular liquid by means of a seal.
To supply the illumination or a screen in the panel 4 with power and/or information signals, the panel 4 comprises an opening, which is arranged at the level of the rotary joint 5, which is attached to one of the side surfaces. The opening makes it possible to insert one cable or a plurality of cables into the cavities or chambers, respectively, formed inside the panel 4. When using electronic information carriers, a telecommunication cable, e.g., via which a remote control and, if necessary, remote maintenance of the information carrier is made possible, can run through the opening. It goes without saying that remote control and remote maintenance can also be implemented by an air interface, for example a mobile radio interface, which can preferably be arranged in the upper area of the posts or in the crossbar for ensuring a reliable reception, and which is connected to the information carrier via a cable running through the rotary joint. A connection to a website, on which the desired information is presented, can take place via corresponding interfaces, e.g.
The form of the panels 4 can differ from the form illustrated in the Figures. For example, forms without bevels, with curves instead of bevels, or partially circular or circular or elliptical basic shapes can also be chosen instead of the rectangular shape having beveled leading edges. The mounting suspension of the panels on the rotary joints 5 can thereby also take place in the center, so as to maximize the information surface.
The upper ends of the posts 1 and 2 can be formed as free ends, which are advantageously covered with a cap when using hollow profiles as posts. To increase the mechanical stability of the partition fence 100, the two posts 1 and 2 are connected at their upper ends to a crossbar 3 in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the crossbar is built by three elements, two knee elements and one horizontal element. The knee elements in one of these embodiments are formed of aluminum casting. Any other material, such as, for example, metal, plastic or also a natural material, such as wood, can also be used. Suitable other cross connections can also be used as crossbars, for example an arched pipe or a horizontal pipe. The connection of the crossbar to the posts can be made in an interlocking manner as well as by material bonding. Crossbar and posts can also be formed integrally, for example in the form of a bar, which is bent in a U shape, or a pipe, which is bent in a U shape, as is shown schematically in FIGS. 3 a and 3 b for an exemplary embodiment.
In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the lower end 7 of the posts 1 and 2 is formed for being fixed to a floor or ground, for instance by insertion into a cartridge placed into the floor or ground beforehand, by concrete casting, screwing, riveting, brazing or welding. The lower end of the posts can each be designed so as to be adapted for one or a plurality of the commonly used floor or ground fixing, including a chemical fixing. Other embodiments comprise a design of the lower end 7 of the posts, which provide for an accommodation into a base frame or into a profile, which rests on a floor or ground or which is fixedly connected thereto. For this purpose, the lower end of the posts can be formed as a profile, for example made of a cast material, an extruded or extrusion molded material.
An alternative embodiment having the lower end 7 of the posts 1 and 2 of the partition fence 200 connected to a base plate 11, is shown schematically in FIG. 2. The base plate 11 shown in FIG. 2 comprises rollers 12, which can be blocked, and can thus be moved. This provides for a particularly flexible use of the partition fence 100, for example for directing streams of people or for confining construction sites. In the alternative, the base plate 11 can be permanently fastened to a floor or ground, for example by means of screwing or adhesion. In this case, no rollers are provided.
A fastening to the profiles (not illustrated in the figures), which are adhered to a floor surface is suitable, e.g., for setting up the partition fence on floors, into which no holes can be drilled due to installations contained therein, such as, e.g., a floor heating. The posts can be releasable fastened in the profiles by means of a clamping or screw connection, and can thus provide for a movement of the partition fence or of the partition fences in the track formed by the profile as the need arises. To protect the base anchoring against dirt or other environmental influences, the base connection area of the posts 1 and 2 is advantageously covered by means of protective caps 8.
To obtain a mobile partition fence unit, foot stands 13 can be used instead of the above-specified base plate 11. A correspondingly configured partition fence 300 is illustrated in FIG. 3 a, wherein the two foot stands 13 of the illustrated embodiment are connected to one another by a link 14. Foot stands 13 and link 14 can be formed integrally or formed from a plurality of components.
A modification of the partition fence 300 of FIG. 3 a is illustrated schematically in FIG. 3 b. The foot stands 13 of the partition fence 300′ are not held in a fixed position to one another by a link 14. Instead, the frame of the partition fence 300′ comprises a crossbeam 15, which connects the posts 1 and 2 of the frame to one another. This crossbeam 15, which is arranged below a panel 4 and which connects two adjacent posts 1, 2, can optionally be provided in all embodiments. The use of the crossbeam 15 is expressly not limited to mobile partition fence units.
According to a further alternative embodiment, which is shown in FIG. 3 c, the posts 1 and 2 of the partition fence 400 are not fastened to a floor or ground, but to a wall or step adjacent to the partition fence 400 by means of a fastening element 16. In FIG. 3 c, an illumination 17 formed e.g. using light-emitting diodes, and which illuminates the information carrier 20 located in or on the panel 4 and/or the floor or ground in front of the partition fence 400, is additionally inserted into the crossbar 3. The illumination, which is equipped with LEDs, e.g., can also be used as path illumination. Provision is further made in FIG. 3 c for a backrest 18, which is padded in the instant embodiment. In the alternative or additionally, the backrest 18 can also be provided with an information carrier 20. It is emphasized that such a crossbar 3 having an illumination 17 and/or such a backrest 18 can be provided in all embodiments.
FIG. 4 illustrates a further embodiment of a partition fence 500, where two partition fence elements, which are formed in the style of the partition fence 100 presented in FIG. 1, are connected to one another by means of two rungs 9, which also continue the barrier between the two partition fence elements 100. It goes without saying that it is also possible to use only one rung 9 or more than two rungs 9. In the area between the two partition fences 100, a panel 4 can be connected instead of the rungs 9 to the immediately adjacent posts of the partition fences 100, which are located next to one another, either fixedly or pivotably by means of rotary joints 5 or 5′, respectively.
According to a further alternative embodiment, which is also based on the embodiment 100 shown in FIG. 1 and which is shown in FIG. 5, panels 4 of adjacent partition fence elements 100 can also be fastened to a post 1, which is used jointly by both of the panels. In this case, a use of rungs 9 between the partition fences 100 can be avoided. The crossbar of this embodiment can further connect the area between the two posts located on the outside in a straight line.
According to two further alternative embodiments 500′ and 500″, which are based on the embodiment 500 shown in FIG. 5, a support between the panels 4 can also be avoided completely when lining up a maximum of four, in particular a maximum of three and preferably a maximum of two adjacent panels 4, if the material used for the posts 1, 2 and crossbar 3 is sufficiently strong. The panels 4 can then rather be fastened directly to one another, as is shown in FIG. 11 a, or, as is shown in FIG. 11 b, to a crossbeam 15, which connects the posts 1, 2. Said crossbeam can be coupled between the panels 4 to the crossbar 3 (shown in dashed lines).
Posts and also rungs and crossbars are preferably made of metal pipes or metal profiles, because they have a high mechanical stability and can be produced in a cost-efficient manner. It goes without saying that plastic profiles or plastic-metal composite profiles can also be used. The posts, rungs and crossbars can thereby optionally be formed from the same or from different materials. In an embodiment, which is preferred for open spaces and for intensive use, the posts, rungs and crossbars are each formed from non-corrosive steel pipes having a diameter of 50 mm. The invention, however, is not limited to a diameter of 50 mm and also not to certain wall thicknesses. For the use for private purposes and in closed spaces, posts, rungs and crossbars are preferably made of aluminum materials. Provision can be made in one or both of the rungs 9 and/or in the crossbar 3 for an illumination 17 (shown in FIG. 2 only for the lower rung 9) for the floor or ground area in front of or around the partition fence 100. At least one of the posts 1 or 2 of a partition fence 100 comprises a cavity, which can be accessed via at least one of the ends of the post. When using a pipe or hollow profile as post, the inner volume of the pipe or profile forms this cavity. At the height of the rotary joint 5, the post has a lateral opening, which extends into the cavity. A cable can thus be run through the cavity of the post via the end of the post and the lateral opening thereof.
Other embodiments of a frame formed from the posts 1 and 2 as well as an optional crossbar 3 and possibly one or a plurality of crossbeam connections 15, the supporting part of the frame is formed by a steel construction, which is made of a U-profile, for example. The steel construction is accommodated within a pipe-shaped construction, for example, which forms the part of the frame, which is visible from outside. The latter does not need to take over any supporting functions, but can be designed according to esthetic aspects, whereby one must consider a sufficient weather resistance.
The rotary joint 5, which is attached to the post 1, establishes a pivotable connection between the post 1 and the panel 4. The rotary joint includes an opening extending through the whole of the rotary joint, which creates a passage from the lateral opening of the post 1 to the lateral opening of the panel 4, and which thus creates the possibility of guiding a cable into the panel so as to be protected by the post.
FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of such a rotary joint 5. The rotary joint 5 comprises two joint members 51 and 52. The joint member 51 comprises an outer wall 511 in the form of a hollow cylinder, which is closed by a base surface on one of its two sides. The base surface comprises an opening 512, which creates a passage from the exterior of the base surface to the interior, which is surrounded by the outer wall 511. A partially annular bracket 514, the side surfaces 514 a and 514 b of which are oriented radially to the geometry of the outer wall 511, is located in the interior of the joint member. The two side surfaces 514 a and 514 b form stop surfaces for the bracket 524 of the joint member 52. The center of the partially annular geometry of the bracket is located on the axis of symmetry of the outer wall 511. The bracket 514 further comprises a distance to the inner lateral surface 513 of the outer wall 511, which makes it possible to insert the cylindrical part of the outer wall 521 of the joint member 52 into the interior of the joint member 51.
The joint member 52 comprises an outer wall 521, which includes a hollow-cylindrical part and a cover, which is arranged in the area of one of the base surfaces, and the outer diameter of which corresponds approximately to the outer diameter of the joint member 51, and which comprises an opening 522 in its center, which provides a passage from the interior of the hollow-cylindrical part to the outside of the cover. The diameter of the outer lateral surface 523 of the hollow-cylindrical part is thereby slightly less than the diameter of the inner lateral surface of the joint member 51, so that the two surfaces can slide on one another after the joining of the two joint members 51 and 52 and thus make it possible to rotate the two joint members about the common axis of symmetry. A partially annular bracket 524, the side surfaces 524 a and 524 b of which are oriented radially to the geometry of the outer wall 511, is also located in the interior of the joint member 52. The two side surfaces 524 a and 524 b form stop surfaces for the bracket 514 of the joint member 51. The center of the partially annular geometry of the bracket is located on the axis of symmetry of the outer wall 521. The projection of the cover of the outer wall 521 beyond the hollow-cylindrical part thereof serves to cover the front face of the cylindrical part of the joint member 51 in the mounted state of the rotary joint, where the joint member 52 is arranged so as to be inserted into the joint member 51. Due to this, the rotary joint comprises a can-shaped geometry, which does not change when the joint members are rotated relative to each other. The risk of jamming foreign objects in the rotary joint is minimized because of this and a reliable operation of the rotary joint is ensured.
The outer walls of the joint members 51 and 52 are preferably made of metal, wherein at least one of the surfaces of the two joint members, which slide on one another, can be coated with a friction-reducing material. In the alterative, a ring made of a friction-reducing material, for example a plastic material, can be arranged between the inner lateral surface 513 of the joint member 51 and the outer lateral surface 523 of the joint member 52. In further alternative embodiments, rolling elements, e.g. balls or needles set in a cage, are located between the two lateral surfaces, which face one another.
The limitation of the angle of rotation, that is, of the angular range, within which the two joint members can be rotated relative to one another in the joined state, is effected by the two brackets 514 and 524. The side surfaces of the brackets, which serve as stop surfaces, are each arranged within a certain angle as viewed from the axis of symmetry of the joint members. At the bracket 514, the stop surfaces 514 a and 514 b are arranged within an angle φ1, at the bracket 524, the stop surfaces 524 a and 524 b are arranged within an angle φ2. The two angles can be equal or unequal. For a limitation of the angle of rotation of the rotary joint 5 to 180 degrees, as it is required for pivoting the panel 4 into the two horizontal positions, the sum of the two angles φ1 and φ2 is 180 degrees. However, slightly different angles of rotation are preferred in many cases, for example to improve or worsen the seating comfort, whereby the time, which a person sitting on the panel perceives as being comfortable, can be influenced. Preferably, the maximum angle of rotation of the rotary joint 5 is thus limited to a value from the range of from 170 to 190 degrees, whereby a final position of the pivoted panel 4, which is tilted slightly upwards or slightly downwards, can be adjusted. Accordingly, φ1 and φ2 are chosen such that the sum thereof also corresponds to a value from the range of from 170 to 190 degrees. The available angle of rotation φD is generally defined by:
φD=360°−(φ1+φ2);
In the event that the panel is only provided for pivoting to one of the two sides, φ1 and φ2 are correspondingly chosen such that the sum thereof corresponds to a value from the range of from 260 to 280 degrees, from which a rotation angle range of 80 to 100 degrees is derived. According to embodiments, the range can be smaller, namely optionally 250 to 280 degrees, 240 to 280 degrees, and 230 to 280 degrees, from which respective larger rotation angle ranges or pivot angle ranges of from 80 to 110 degrees, 80 to 120 degrees and 80 to 130 degrees result. An angular range of this size makes it possible to exchange an information carrier 20, which is accommodated in the panel 4, even when one side of the partition fence 100 cannot be accessed due to its arrangement (e.g. on a road) and when the distance of the panel 4 to the floor or ground with the panel 4 being vertically oriented is too low to make it possible to exchange the information carrier downwards. A corresponding example including a rotation angle of 130 degrees and a sitting position with a slightly downwards incline is illustrated in the side view in FIG. 7.
For absorbing the impact energy when the panel is pivoted into one of the end positions, the brackets are in embodiments of the rotary joint made of an elastic material, for example of a synthetic rubber or natural rubber. In other embodiments, the brackets are of a non-elastic material, wherein at least one of the stop surfaces contacting each other in an end position of the rotation is covered with an elastic material.
The moving back of the panel 4 from a pivoted position into the vertical rest position can be obtained by means of an unbalanced weight distribution in the panel 4. For this purpose, the cover of the lower edge or side surface of the panel 4 as seen in the left illustration of FIG. 1 can comprise a weight (which is not illustrated in the figures), for example, which generates a torsional moment about the axis of rotation of the rotary joint 5 when the panel is swiveled out, which effects a pivoting of the panel back into the vertical position.
Other embodiments comprise a return spring (which is not illustrated in the figures), which is formed, e.g., by a torsion spring, which is arranged in the cavity surrounded by the two joint members and which generates a righting moment when the two joint members are rotated out of their position of rest.
In an embodiment, the fixing of the panel 4 in the rest position is carried out as mentioned above by means of permanent magnets (which are not specifically shown in the figures), one of which or a first group of permanent magnets are attached to or in the frame of the panel 4, and a second permanent magnet or a second group of permanent magnets are attached in the frame, which is formed by the posts 1, 2 and the possible crossbar. In the rest position of the panel, the magnets attached in the panel 4 face the magnets attached in the frame, whereby the poles of the magnets are preferably aligned with one another and the polarities of two magnetic poles, which face one another, are different. For example, the north pole of a magnet in the posts 1, 2 or the crossbar 3 faces a south pole of the corresponding magnet in the panel 4 or vice versa the south pole of a magnet in the posts 1, 2 or the crossbar 3 faces a north pole of the corresponding magnet in the panel 4. In the panel 4, the magnets are thus located at one side or a plurality of sides facing the frame, and in the frame, which is formed from posts 1 and 2 and possibly crossbar, on the sides facing the panel 4. The arrangement of the magnets takes place such that a distance between a respective magnet in the posts 1 and 2 or the crossbar 3 and the corresponding magnet in the panel 4 is as small as possible, wherein the distance is to not fall below a certain minimum size, so as to guard against a risk of jamming fingers between panel and frame. To obtain high field strengths, the permanent magnets according to one embodiment are formed from a neodymium-iron-boron compound. The magnets do not only serve to maintain a defined rest position of the panel 4 in the frame, but also to dampen post-oscillations and to suppress oscillations caused by external influences, such as wind load, e.g.
A cavity, which extends from the opening 512 of the first joint member 51 to the opening 522 of the second joint member 52, and which forms a passage through the rotary joint 5 with these openings, is located in the interior of the rotary joint 5. The cavity is designed such that no parts of the joint members can penetrate into the cavity when rotating the joint members relative to each other. The passage provided by the cavity and the openings can thus be used as a protected passage for electrical feed cables as described above from one of the posts 1 or 2 into the panel 4. To further ensure that a cable passing therethrough cannot interfere with areas of the rotary joint interior through which parts of the rotary joint 5 pass upon a rotation, an annular wall can be provided in the area between the openings 512 and 522 and the brackets 514 and 524 that extends from the can base of the one joint member to the can base of the other joint member. It goes without saying that the annular wall (which is not shown in FIG. 6) can be formed in one piece integrally with one of the joint members, as well as in two pieces, wherein each partial piece is formed integrally with one of the joint members. Instead of forming the wall integrally with the joint members, it can also be formed as independent, e.g. sleeve-like component, for being arranged in the rotary joint 5.
It should be noted that in many applications, only one of the rotary joints 5 or 5′ has to comprise a lead-through as described above. The second rotary joint 5′ can then have a simpler design, for example it can be configured without openings 512 and 522 or can also comprise a central rotational axis.
The fastening of the rotary joint 5 to the posts 1 or 2 can be accomplished by material bonding or interlocking coupling. A clamping connection as illustrated in FIG. 1 is preferred, in the case of which one of the joint members of the rotary joint comprises a clamping fitting 515, with which the rotary joint is laterally attached to the post such that the opening 512 of the joint member 51 is arranged on the lateral opening of the post. On the side facing the post, the clamping fitting 515 is preferably profiled such that it abuts the exterior of the post over a certain surface area. For this purpose, the connection area of the clamping fitting profile is formed in the connection area approximately complementary to the cross sectional profile of the post. The joint member 51 comprises openings (which are not illustrated in the figure), into which fastening means, such as, e.g., screws, nuts, rivets, splint pins, clamping ropes or the like can be inserted. The openings extend from the can base of the joint member 51 through the clamping fitting. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4, the fastening means engage with a clamp 6 arranged on the side of the post, which faces away from the clamping fitting 515 thereby fixing the rotary joint 5 to the post. If a pivotable panel 4 is provided on each of the two sides of the post for like in FIG. 5, the fastening means engage with the openings in the clamping fitting of the rotary joint 5, which is provided for the other panel 4. To further stabilize the connection, provision can be made in the clamping fitting for pins, which engage with corresponding recesses or openings, which are formed on the post. Clamping fitting 515 and clamp 6 can be formed so as to contact one another, so as to create a connection of the rotary joint to the posts, which is closed to the outside, wherein the fastening means are preferably inserted from the interior of the joint member, so that they are not visible from outside.
For fastening the panels 4, provision is made in the illustrated exemplary embodiment on the exterior of the can base of joint member 52 for a groove 527, into which the panel is inserted and is fixed by means of fastening means (which are not shown in the figures). Instead of a groove, two webs, which run parallel to one another, or other profiles can be used.
FIG. 8 illustrates a modification 5* of the rotary joint 5 illustrated in FIG. 6. This embodiment of a rotary joint 5* comprises a rolling bearing 516, which is arranged in the first joint member 51*. An annular web 526, the outer contour of which is formed for a tight fit with the inner surface of the rolling bearing 516, is formed on the joint member 52*. This web 526 further extends so close to the can base of the first joint member that a central passage is formed, which is closed in relation to the area of the interior of rotary joint 5*, which includes the brackets. It goes without saying that the rolling bearing can also be arranged on the web 526 of the joint member 52*, wherein the can base of the joint member 51* is in this case formed for a tight fit with the outer lateral surface of the rolling bearing 516. In embodiments, the rolling bearing can further also connect to the inner lateral surface 513* of the outer wall 511* of the first joint member 51* and to the outer lateral surface 523* of the outer wall 521* of the second joint member 52*.
FIG. 9 illustrates a further embodiment 5*′ of a rotary joint 5. In contrast to the embodiment 5* according to FIG. 8, the bracket in the joint member 52*′ consists of two partially annular partial brackets 524 i*′ and 524 ii*′, which are spaced apart from one another. The two side surfaces 524 a*′ and 524 b*′, which face away from one another, form the stop surfaces of this two-part bracket. These stop surfaces are arranged within an angle φ1′, while the stop surfaces of the bracket 514*′ in the other joint member 51*′ are arranged within an angle φ2′ and the sum of the two angles in each case has a value from one of the above-specified angular areas. The brackets in the illustrated embodiment further connect directly to the outer walls of the respective joint members, wherein the outer wall of the joint member 52*′ is no longer guided within the outer wall 511*′ of the joint member 51*′, but is configured such that the front faces of the outer walls of both joint members face one another. It goes without saying that the rolling bearing 516 can also be accommodated in the joint member 52*′ unlike illustrated, wherein the web 526′ can also be formed in the other joint member 51*′ instead of in the joint member 52*′.
FIG. 10 shows a further preferred embodiment 5″ of a rotary joint 5. As do the afore-presented rotary joints, this rotary joint also comprises two joint members 51″ and 52″, which can be combined to form a can-shaped rotary joint member. In the interior, which is surrounded by the outer wall 511″ of the first joint member 51″, a stop bracket 514″ including two stop surfaces 514 a″ and 514 b″ is formed. To save material, a recess 519″ is formed in the bracket 514″. The bracket web, which hereby connects the two stop surfaces, serves to accommodate a rolling bearing 540″, which is illustrated schematically in the cross sectional illustration of the second joint member 52″. Opposite the bracket web, a further web 516″ is located, which also serves to accommodate a rolling bearing 540″. An opening 512″ is located in the center of the joint member 51″. A recess 517″, with which an element 530″ of a locking device arranged on the second joint member 52″ engages when the rotary joint 5″ is in its rest position, is furthermore formed in the base 518″ of the joint member 51″. As with the other embodiments, the clamping fitting 515″ is located on the exterior of the first joint member 51″, which is provided for mounting to one of the posts 1 or 2.
The inner diameter of the outer wall 521″ of the second joint member 52″ is slightly larger, but virtually equal to the outer diameter of the outer wall 511″ of the first joint member 51″. A circular groove 523″, with which the outer wall 511″ of the first joint member 51″ engages, is formed at the transition from the outer wall 521″ to the interior of the base 528″ of the joint member, whereby a construction of the rotary joint 5″, which is closed to the outside, is obtained. An rolling bearing 50″ (which is only shown in the cross sectional illustration) is arranged around the cylindrical web 526″. In the assembled state of the rotary joint 5″, the outer lateral surface of the rolling bearing 540″ is accommodated between the bracket web and the web 516″ of the first joint member. The opening 522″ is formed in the interior of the cylindrical web. The second bracket 524″, at each of the stop surfaces of which a stop element 524 a″ or 524 b″ is attached, is formed adjoining the inner edge of the circular groove 523″. The stop elements have a t-shaped longitudinal section and can be rotationally symmetrical. As can be seen from the partial section in the figure, the appendage, which extends from the stop buffers, is accommodated in a recess, e.g. in a borehole. To produce a locking device, a cylindrical recess is formed in the bracket 524″. A slide bush 531″, in which a ball 530″ is preferably accommodated in a sliding manner, is located in said cylindrical recess. A return element, which pushes the locking element 530″, which has been pushed inwardly, to the outside again, is located in the interior of the slide bush 531″, which is closed by the ball 530″ or another locking element. The return element can be formed by a pressure spring or, as in the case illustrated in FIG. 10, by a rubber-elastic plastic filling 532″. In the illustrated example, the sum of the angles φ1+φ2 is 180 degrees, thus achieving a pivot range of +/−90 degrees about the rest position of the rotary joint, which is determined by the locking element 530″. The returning force of the returning element is thereby dimensioned such that the panel can be folded out without considerable effort, but remains in the locked state under usual wind pressure loads. Two straight webs 529″, which run parallel to one another, which confine a space 527″, in which the panel 4 is accommodated, are formed on the, in the mounted state of the rotary joint, outer side of the base 528″ of the second joint member.
The height of the axis of rotation of the rotary joint on the partition fence is determined according to the respective application area. To offer a typical seat height, the axis of rotation is preferably arranged at a height of approximately 52 cm above the base, possibly minus half of the thickness of the panel 4. To offer a seat for children, the axis of rotation is arranged accordingly lower. To offer only a slight easing when seated, the rotary joint can also be arranged in barstool height.
It is emphasized that in all of the embodiments explained above, the afore-described information carrier 20 as well as the chamber-like cavities, which accommodate it as well as a possibly corresponding illumination device and a possibly corresponding electrical system or electronics, respectively (such as also a power supply, for example), can optionally be provided on one or on both sides of the panel 4. In the event that provision is made for information carriers 20, which are accommodated on both sides of the panel 4 in chamber-like cavities, they can be accessed starting on the same or on different side surfaces of the panel 4 for the purpose of inserting removing of the information carrier (for example for an exchange or for maintenance purposes). In the event that the chamber-like cavities, which each accommodate one of a plurality of information carriers 20, can be accessed from the same side surface of the panel 4, a common removable cover or optionally separate removable covers can be provided for the respective chamber-like cavities at this side surface.
It is further emphasized that the cover of a respective information carrier of a panel can in all of the afore-mentioned embodiments be formed by a transparent or lucent material to ensure the visibility of the information carrier from outside the panel and to protect the information carrier against being damaged. Examples for material, which are suitable for this, can include polymethyl methacrylate, which is commonly also referred to as acrylic glass, thermoplastic polyesters, such as, e.g., the polyester, which is distributed under the trademark Axpet®, and polycarbonates, such as, e.g., Lexan®. The transparent or lucent material can in particular also be a plate material. The thickness of the transparent or lucent plate material can in particular be between 0.5 mm and 5 mm and in particular between 1 mm and 4 mm and further in particular 1 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm or 4 mm. When using plate material with a thickness of less than 3 mm and in particular of less than 2 mm, it is not necessary to mill of the edges in the overlapping area of the frame of the panel. The thickness of the plate material can be suitably chosen, for example depending on a load carrying capacity or a pressure sensitivity of a respective information carrier.
It is further emphasized that the hollow profiles, which are used in all of the afore-mentioned embodiments for at least one of posts 1, 2, crossbar 3, crossbeam 15 and rung 9, can have any cross section and in particular circular or oval, but also generally polygonal and in particular rectangular and triangular cross sections. The same or different hollow profiles can thereby be used for the posts 1, 2, crossbar 3, crossbeam 15 and rung 9. A full material, such as, for example, a massive bar made of metal or plastic, instead of a hollow profile can further be used for at least one of posts 1, 2, crossbar 3, crossbeam 15 and rung 9.
The above-described partition fences can also be equipped with a container, for example a container for accommodating trash, instead of with a panel 4. In this case, the locking device in the rotary joint is adjusted more powerfully, so that a pivoting of the container requires a bigger effort than in the case of the panels. In addition, provision can also be made for a closing device, so that only authorized personnel can tilt the container out of the rest position for emptying.
The present application claims the priority of DE 10 2010 005 430.5 of Jan. 22, 2010 as well as the priority of DE 10 2010 005 919.6 of Jan. 27, 2010. The content of these documents is herewith incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Claims

1. A partition fence comprising a pivotable panel including:

two posts, which are configured for being fixedly connected to a floor or ground, wherein at least one of the posts has a cavity with a lateral opening that can be accessed via at least one of its ends,

a panel, which is arranged between the posts and which has a lateral opening, and

two rotary joints, each of which is arranged between one of the posts and the panel for rotatably connecting the panel to the posts,

wherein

at least one of the rotary joints comprises a first joint member, which is connected to the post having a cavity and which includes a first rotary bearing unit, and a second joint member, which is connected to the panel and which includes a second rotary bearing unit,

the two rotary bearing units are configured such that one of the two rotary bearing units surrounds the other in radial direction and that the radially inner of the two rotary bearing units surrounds a cavity, which is connected to the lateral opening of the post via an opening in the first joint member, and which is connected to the lateral opening of the panel via an opening in the second joint member,

the first joint member comprises two first stop surfaces, which are arranged at a radial distance to the axis of rotation and within a first angle in relation to the axis of rotation,

the second joint member comprises two second stop surfaces, which are arranged at a radial distance to the axis of rotation such that they can stop against the first stop surfaces when the second joint member is rotated relative to the first joint member, wherein the second stop surfaces are arranged within a second angle in relation to the axis of rotation and the sum of first angle and second angle corresponds to a value from the range of from 230 to 280 degrees or a value from the range of from 170 to 190 degrees.

2. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein first and second joint members are formed in a can-shaped manner, with each comprising a central opening in the can base, and wherein the rotary bearing unit is formed on one of the two joint members by the outer lateral surface thereof and on the other of the two joint members by the inner lateral surface thereof.

3. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein the rotary bearing unit in one of the two joint members is formed by a rolling bearing.

4. The partition fence according to claim 3, wherein the rolling bearing is arranged such that the axis of rotation of the rolling bearing corresponds to the axis of rotation of the rotary joint.

5. The partition fence according to claim 3, wherein the rotary bearing unit of the other of the two joint members is formed by a cavity, which accommodates the rolling bearing in its interior or which is accommodated in the interior of the rolling bearing.

6. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein the rotary joint comprises a locking device, which, in locked position, fixes the second joint member in relation to the first joint member in a predetermined angle of rotation such that a certain minimum torsional moment is required for changing the angle of rotation.

7. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein the first joint member comprises a clamping fitting, which partially surrounds the post and which comprises an outside profile, which is complementary to the post.

8. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein the first joint member comprises at least one opening for accommodating a fastening means for fastening a clamp or the clamping fitting of a further rotary joint.

9. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein at least the first or second stop surfaces are formed by an elastic material.

10. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein the first stop surfaces are formed by the side surfaces of a partially annular first bracket pointing in the peripheral direction thereof.

11. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein the second stop surfaces are formed by the side surfaces of a partially annular second bracket pointing in the peripheral direction thereof.

12. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein the panel comprises a cavity for accommodating an information carrier.

13. The partition fence according to claim 12, wherein the panel comprises a closable opening for inserting an information carrier into the cavity and for removing the information carrier from the cavity.

14. The partition fence according to claim 12, wherein an illumination device is arranged in the cavity.

15. The partition fence according to claim 1, comprising a cable, which is configured for transferring electric energy and/or electric signals, and which is arranged in the partition fence so as to run through the cavity of the post, the cavity formed in the rotary joint, and into the lateral opening the panel.

16. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein the two posts are interconnected by a crossbar at those ends, which are not provided for being fastened to a floor or a ground.

17. The partition fence according to claim 16, wherein an illumination device is arranged in the crossbar.

18. The partition fence according to claim 16, wherein a permanent magnet is respectively arranged both in the crossbar on the side facing the panel and in the panel on the side facing the crossbar, said magnets being arranged such that non-identical poles are positioned facing each other.

19. The partition fence according to claim 1, wherein a permanent magnet is respectively arranged both in at least one of the posts on the side facing the panel and in the panel on the side facing the at least one post, said magnets being arranged such that non-identical poles are positioned facing each other.