Note : Les descriptions sont présentées dans la langue officielle dans laquelle elles ont été soumises.
88006-1
TRACK AND CURTAIN SYSTEM
Technical Field
The present invention relates to a track system and associated curtain for use
as a room
divider or to create an enclosed space. In some preferred embodiments, the
track system and
associated curtain can be used as a hospital privacy curtain system, or in
related applications.
Background
Throughout hospitals and extended care facilities, bed and examination areas
are often
provided privacy through the use of ceiling-mounted movable fabric curtains.
There are many
manufacturers of these products and all are essentially the same basic idea
with limited variation.
Figures la and lb illustrate some examples of these systems of the prior art.
As shown in the
figures, a track is provided which consists of an extruded aluminum channel.
The track is
attached to a conventional or dropped ceiling, and traces a path around the
area to be sequestered.
A series of rollers slide within that track, each of the rollers having a
chain hanging from it. The
chains, in turn, each end in a hook.
To drape a curtain around the examination area, each hook is attached to a
grommet in the
curtain, a series of grommets being provided along the curtain's upper edge.
Once the hooks have
been attached to the curtain's grommets, the curtain hangs from the ceiling
and can slide along the
track's path. Usually, this path is arc-shaped, extending around three sides
of a bed or
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wall). A health care professional such as a doctor or nurse pulls the curtain
to slide it
along the track, to open and close a space around the bed.
The present inventors have identified extensive shortcomings to these current
systems. Because of the track, the rollers, and the moving parts, the noise of
the curtain
sliding along the aluminum track is very disturbing to patients. Particularly
in a hospital
environment, patients need their rest. Yet, the movement of the curtain along
the track
not only disturbs the patient in the bed surrounded by the curtain, but also
the patient in
the adjoining bed (which is a problem in general, and particularly so if that
second patient
was sleeping).
Furthermore, maintenance, repair and laundering of these systems is highly
inefficient. The existing designs use a single entry and exit point for
insertion or removal
of the curtain at an end of the track (or at the two ends of the track at
best). If one roller
breaks in the sequence of rollers, all the rollers and the entire curtain up
to that point need
to be removed from the track, so that the broken roller can be replaced.
Likewise, the curtain can often disengage from the track. Particularly
considering
the large number of hooks and rollers and small parts, it is time consuming to
maintain
and repair the system and its parts, and to reattach the curtain. Yet, the
number of
moving parts only increases the likelihood of breakage, of the curtain
disengaging from
the track, of the disengagement of the hooks from the grommets, and so forth.
The curtains themselves consist of a single, continuous, lengthy stretch of
material (usually greater than 24 feet, and often 30 feet long) and are heavy
as a result.
Due to that length and size, they must be sent out to a costly commercial
laundering
facility.
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Moreover, the design of the system and the curtain's weight make it difficult
to
handle the curtain, with it being particularly cumbersome to hang or change
it. One roller
at a time must be inserted into the track and then one hook at a time must be
attached to
the heavy curtain. As there are approximately two grommets per linear foot,
the
mounting or removal of the curtain (whether for maintenance, repair, cleaning,
or
replacement purposes) is a considerable chore that usually requires the
efforts of two
maintenance workers.
The utility and aesthetics of the system are also severely lacking. To pass
beyond
the curtain into the bed area, the health care professional must pull the
curtain from the
far end ¨ i.e. he or she cannot simply enter in the middle. Also, the movement
of the
curtain is often not smooth or stable along the track, and can jam up when
there is
interference with the moving parts. The curtain can also get tangled as the
hooks catch
each other and/or sections of the curtain fabric. The use of the chains,
rollers and hooks
also results in a configuration where the curtain hangs a significant distance
below the
track, leaving a relatively large gap through which unwanted light can enter.
In terms of both appearance and space, the existing curtains stack or gather
together in an extremely wide silhouette - for example, 24 feet of curtain
stack as
approximately 4 feet, in other words, as a width of fabric approximately 4
feet wide.
Moreover, since the curtain is a single continuous length, it can only be
stacked together
in one bundle. For all practical purposes, curtains in that system cannot be
layered one
on top of the other, even if desired. Also, the upper edge of the curtain is
sloppy in
appearance ¨ whether spread or stacked.
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Additionally, the products are usually custom created for the installation,
creating long lead times
and high prices for the institution. The system is also relatively costly due
to the complicated ring
system, the multiple parts, the use of the grommets, and the attendant higher
labor involved.
Likewise, most parts of those systems are metal, which are inherently noisier,
may tarnish, and
can be relatively expensive in cost.
Summary
In accordance with a first aspect, a system is provided for hanging an
associated curtain,
the modules of the system including a series of track sections. The track
sections are each
configured as a combination or hybrid of a rod and a track, with the benefits
of both. The track
sections are further being configured for attachment to each other, forming an
extremely
adaptable system for use in suspending a curtain therefrom.
As a result, a modular track or rod and modular curtain system is provided
which can
easily accommodate a facility's requirements while overcoming the shortcomings
of the prior art.
The track modules or sections have with attachments and accessories designed
to conform and
adjust to varying environments and specifications. The track shape and length
are adjusted by
specifying various combinations of the modular parts, the product being
attached to various media
with the use of the specialized components created as part of the system.
In some specific embodiments, the system may include at least two track
sections which
are attached together to form a length of said track, wherein at least one
track section includes a
guiderail projecting from the body of that track section.
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88006-1
In a further additional or alternative embodiment, the system includes a side
mount and/or
a vertical mount for attaching the track system to a fixed support in the
environment, wherein the
side mount and/or vertical mount is attached to the side of the length of
track.
Complementing the track system is a curtain with integrated loop fasteners
which allows
the curtain to be attached and removed without removing the track. In
accordance with one
embodiment, a unique opening is provided in the ring to provide a ring mouth
which allows the
curtain to easily pass over the track's mounting points (such as the side
mount and/or vertical
mount), and/or over the guiderail. The ring also allows attachment of the
curtain to the track in
one movement. Further preferably, the curtain is a modular design allowing the
user to create
various lengths, widths and configurations.
In a hospital environment, or other high stress environments, there are often
times when
hospital personnel handle the curtain in a violent and haphazard manner which
may cause the
curtain to fall off of the track at certain points. In those situations, a
preferred embodiment would
be to have an inward facing finger-like extension protruding from the mouth of
the ring. This
would create a superior interface between the ring and the side support, for
extra stability. There
are various different versions of this preferred embodiment. Further, in this
alternative
embodiment there can be a flap of fabric or material between the rings of the
curtain which blocks
light from coming through. If the light shines through the curtain through the
opening between
the rings this can be disturbing to a patient who is in a bed behind the
curtain. This flap would
attach to the upper side of the opening and extend below the lower part of the
opening to cover
that gap without interfering with the curtain's movement along the track.
Likewise, the side
stabilizer will be positioned higher on the track so it can go under the
guiderail.
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88006-1
Likewise, a loading zone can be included on the track. The loading zone is a
thinned out
section at the beginning of the track which the rings of the curtain are
initially loaded onto, and
the narrow nature of this section facilitates their insertion. The track then
widens out after this
initial narrow section of the loading zone. The narrow nature of this section
allows for horizontal
insertion of the curtain, as opposed to the vertical insertion which is
usually necessary. Further,
the narrowness and horizontal insertion allow the track to be positioned
higher up and closer to
the ceiling, which further limits ring rotation. Likewise, the grabber, which
is a device used to put
up the curtain onto the track, can be simpler and less costly due to this
loading zone which the
curtain can be easily loaded onto.
In a further additional or alternative embodiment of the invention, an article
of
manufacture is provided, comprising: a curtain; said curtain comprising a
first opening and a
second opening; said first opening comprising a first C-shaped ring; said
second opening
comprising a second C-shaped ring; said first opening and said second opening
being in
communication such that there is an open path in said curtain between said
first opening and said
second opening; said first C-shaped ring comprising a first extension to form
a first G-shaped
ring, and said second C-shaped ring comprising a second extension to form a
second G-shaped
ring; wherein said first extension is parallel to said open path, and said
second extension is
parallel to said open path.
Further embodiments will become apparent from the detailed disclosure and the
figures
provided herein.
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88006-1
Brief Description of the Drawings
Figures la and lb are schematics of the prior art to the present invention.
Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the various components of a track
system for
hanging a curtain, in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of the various components of a track
system for
hanging a curtain to a ceiling or wall, in accordance with one embodiment of
the present
invention.
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Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of a track system for hanging a
curtain,
in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention in which an
extension and
adapter can be used to lower the track, i.e. to increase the distance between
the track and
the ceiling.
Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of a further embodiment of the
invention
in which a track mount is used, which attaches to the existing tracks of the
prior art.
Figure 6 is a front view of a curtain for use with the track system of the
present
invention.
Figure 7 is a front view of one embodiment of a curtain and track system of
the
current invention, wherein the curtain is attached to the track.
Figure 8 is a front view and side view of an embodiment of a ring for use with
the
curtains of Figures 6 and 7.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention,
wherein a series of wide mouth rings of the curtain are inserted over a
section of the track
in a single motion. (In addition, the rings do not need to flex in this
embodiment, due to
the sizing of the mouth of the ring and track).
Figure 10 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention,
wherein the ring of the curtain sits on the track with the top of the inner
circumference of
the ring hanging from (e.g. resting or balancing on) the top of the track
section, the mouth
of the ring being angled, sized and positioned to glide over a vertical
support and side
mount, the mouth of the ring having fingers to simplify and assist with
insertion of the
curtain ring onto the track.
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Figure 11 is a rear view of an embodiment of the invention in which two
modular
curtains are used, the curtains attaching together and hanging from the track.
Figure 12 is a rear view of a further embodiment of the curtains, wherein the
curtains overlap at their top ends, with a gap between the curtains, to create
an entry or
exit area for passing through the curtains and into or out of its enclosed
space.
Figure 13 is a top view showing the layering of two curtains on a track, in
accordance with an embodiment of the invention.
Figure 14 is a front view showing an embodiment of the invention with multiple
stacks of curtains, showing a narrow stack, a wider stack, and an entry/exit
area between
them.
Figure 15a is a perspective view of a component of an embodiment of the track
system of the present invention.
Figure 15b-1 is a schematic of a top view of the component of Figure 15a.
Figure 15b-2 is a schematic of a front view of the component of Figure 15a.
Figure 15b-3 is a schematic of a side view of the component of Figure 15a.
Figure 16a is a perspective view of a further component of an embodiment of
the
track system of the present invention.
Figure 16b-1 is a schematic of a top view of the component of Figure 16a.
Figure 16b-2 is a schematic of a side view of the component of Figure 16a.
Figure 16b-3 is a schematic of a front view of the component of Figure 16a.
Figure 17a is a perspective view of a further component of an embodiment of
the
track system of the present invention.
Figure 17b-1 is a schematic of a side view of the component of Figure 17a.
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Figure 17b-2 is a schematic of a front view of the component of Figure 17a.
Figure 18a is a perspective view of a further component of an embodiment of
the
track system of the present invention.
Figure 18b-1 is a schematic of a top view of the component of Figure 18a.
Figure 18b-2 is a schematic of a cross-section of the component of Figure 18a
taken along the line A-A of Figure 18b-1.
Figure 18b-3 is a schematic of a front view of the component of Figure 18a.
Figure 19a is a perspective view of a further component of an embodiment of
the
track system of the present invention.
Figure 19b-1 is a schematic of a side view of the component of Figure 19a.
Figure 19b-2 is a schematic of a top view of the component of Figure 19a.
Figure 19b-3 is a schematic of a detailed, rear view of the portion of the
component of Figure 19a that is labeled "A" in Figure 19b-1.
Figure 19b-4 is a schematic of a bottom view of the component of Figure 19a.
Figure 19b-5 is a schematic of a side view of the component of Figure 19a.
Figure 19b-6 is a schematic of a rear view of the component of Figure 19a.
Figure 19b-7 is a schematic of a detailed, front view of the portion of the
component of Figure 19a that is labeled "A" in Figure 19b-5.
Figure 19b-8 is a portion of the schematic of Figure 19b-7.
Figure 20a is a perspective view of a further component of and embodiment of
the
track system of the present invention.
Figure 20b-1 is a schematic of a front view of the component of Figure 20a.
Figure 20b-2 is a schematic of a side view of the component of Figure 20a.
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Figure 206-3 is a schematic of a cross-section of the component of Figure 20a
taken along the line A-A of Figure 20b-2.
Figure 20b-4 is a schematic of a rear view of the component of Figure 20a.
Figure 21a is a perspective view of a further component of an embodiment of
the
track system of the present invention.
Figure 2 lb-1 is a schematic of a side view of the component of Figure 21a.
Figure 21b-2 is a schematic of a rear view of the component of Figure 21a.
Figure 22a is a perspective view of a further component of an embodiment of
the
track system of the present invention.
Figures 22b-1 is a schematic of a top view of one embodiment of the component
in Figure 22a.
Figure 22b-2 is a schematic of a side view of the embodiment of the component
of Figure 22a.
Figure 22b-3 is a schematic of a top view of a further embodiment of the
component of Figure 22a.
Figure 22b-4 is a schematic of a side view of the embodiment of the component
of Figure 22b-3.
Figures 23 and 24 are perspective views of further components of one or more
embodiments of the track system of the present invention.
Figure 25 includes views of a further embodiment of the present invention,
wherein the track includes a guiderail. Specifically, Figures 25a and 25b are
perspective
views of the guiderail and a section of the track, respectively, with Figure
25c being a
view of the guiderail and section of track coupled together. Figure 25d is a
perspective
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
schematic view of the embodiment of Figures 25a-25c, showing the curtain
resting on the
track section which includes the guiderail, and showing attempted rotation of
the curtain
ring. Figure 25e is a perspective view of the embodiment of Figures 25a-25d,
showing
the curtain resting on the track section, and illustrating the guiderail,
vertical mount, and
side mount.
Figure 26 is an exploded view of a further embodiment of the present invention
wherein the side mount locks onto the track section.
Figure 27 is a front view of an embodiment of a ring of the present invention
for
use with curtains consistent with the present invention. The ring is shown
mounted on a
cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a track of the present invention.
Figure 28 is a front view of a further embodiment of a ring of the present
invention for use with curtains consistent with the present invention.
Figure 29 is a front view of a further embodiment of a ring of the present
invention for use with curtains consistent with the present invention.
Figure 30 is a front view of a further embodiment of a ring of the present
invention for use with curtains consistent with the present invention.
Figure 31 is a front view of a further embodiment of a ring of the present
invention for use with curtains consistent with the present invention.
Figure 33 is a front view of a further embodiment of a ring of the present
invention for use with curtains consistent with the present invention.
Figure 34 is a back view of a component of an embodiment of the track system
of
the present invention.
Figure 35 is a perspective view of the component of Figure 34.
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Figure 36 is a front view of a component of an alternative embodiment of the
ring-slit mechanism of the present invention for a curtain for use with the
track system of
the present invention, including a flap for the ring-slit mechanism.
Figure 37 is a perspective bottom view of a curtain including a double ring-
slit
mechanism embodiment.
Figure 38 is a further perspective view of a curtain including the ring-slit
mechanism of Figure 37.
Figure 39 is a front view of a curtain including a single ring-slit mechanism
embodiment.
Figure 40 is a back view of the curtain with ring-slit mechanism of Figure 39.
Figure 41 is a further front view of a curtain with a ring-slit mechanism
consistent
with the present invention, showing the rings in a flexed position.
Figure 42 is a perspective back view of the component of Figure 41 showing the
curtain and ring in use with a track system consistent with the present
invention.
Figure 43 is a perspective top view of the component of Figure 39, wherein the
curtain is resting on the track.
Figure 44 is a perspective bottom view of the component of Figure 39, wherein
the curtain is resting on the track.
Figure 45 is a further perspective back view of the curtain of Figure 39
coupled
with a track system consistent with the present invention.
Figure 46 is a perspective schematic representation of a curtain, including a
double ring-slit mechanism, being loaded onto the loading zone portion of a
track
consistent with the present invention.
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Figure 47 is a back view of the loading zone section of the track of Figure
46.
Figure 48 is a top view of the loading zone section of the track of Figure 46.
Figure 49 is a bottom view of the loading zone section of the track of Figure
46.
Detailed Description of the Invention and the Preferred Embodiments
In accordance with the invention, a modular system is provided for hanging an
associated curtain. As shown in the figures, the modules of the system include
a series of
track sections, the track sections being configured as a combination of a rod
and a track,
with the benefits of both. The modular track sections are further configured
for
attachment to each other to adjust the length and shape of the track to suit
any desired
environment.
Like a rod, the top surface 938 of each modular track section is curved; thus,
the
openings of a curtain can hang from and slide along that top surface 938, as
with the top
surface of an ordinary (cylindrical) rod or tube. In particular, the top
surface of each
modular track section is preferably shaped as the upper portion of a rod or
cylinder.
Thus, a curtain with an opening therein or with rings 62 can be suspended from
the track,
such that the opening or rings slide or glide along that top surface. Examples
of curtains
having rings integrated therein which slides along a rod are disclosed for
example, in
U.S. Patent Nos. 5,186,232; 6,494,248; 6,935,402; and 7,296,609.
Like a track, however, the modular track sections also include grooves
therein, the
grooves being provided in the side of one or more, or all, of the sections of
the track. The
grooves allow the attachment of accessory components which extend from the
side of the
track, and which can be used to attach the track to fixed supports in the
environment.
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In a preferred embodiment, the system is provided for use in hospitals and
other
health care facilities. However, the invention is not limited to health care
contexts, but
rather can be used in any environment where a room divider, privacy or an
enclosed
space is desirable or necessary, whether commercial, residential, military, or
emergency
contexts, or otherwise.
For example, in commercial settings, the inventions can be used in office
cubicles, showrooms, trade shows, display booths, in stores (or store
windows), among
other uses. In residential settings, it can be used around a bed, or anywhere
else desired
in homes, dormitories, hotels, nursing homes, and so forth. In military and
governmental
settings, the invention can be used in military barracks and offices, whether
permanent or
temporary, and in prisons. In an emergency setting, the invention can be used
with tents
or temporary structures in the field, whether for hurricane or disaster
relief, in hospital
units (field hospitals), within temporary tents or structures (belonging to
relief or aid
workers or governmental personnel), or so forth. (In such temporary or
makeshift
contexts, the curtains can be affixed to tracks on the frame of the tent or
structure, or to
portable weighted stands, or so forth). For outdoor use, the inventions can be
used
around tennis courts, swimming pools, porches, terraces, and so forth. In
general, the
inventions can be used in any indoor or outdoor location desired.
As shown in Figures 2-5 and Figures 15 -24, in accordance with the invention
the
modular track system consists of a series of components designed for
adaptability to form
a horizontal track which can be attached to fixed supports in any of numerous
different
environments. Preferably, each of the modular track sections are a combination
of a rod
and track (although they can include portions which are flat, round, solid
and/or hollow,
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as desired). In the preferred embodiment, the track system is mounted directly
to the
fixed support, such as a wall, ceiling, column, stand, or so forth.
Alternatively, the
system can be mounted onto the track systems of the prior art, such as the
existing tracks
in hospitals as further discussed below, or to the frame of a tent, or a
portable weighted
stand as previously noted.
In a new installation, when the track system is mounted directly to a wall or
ceiling, a ceiling mount 160 and/or end cap 170 is used as shown in Figures 2,
3 and 4.
Ceiling mount 160 (as further shown in Figures 16a and 16b) consists of a flat
plate 162
on its top side, the flat plate preferably being screwed or otherwise adhered
to the ceiling
of the desired environment. End cap or wall mount 170 (as further shown in
Figures 17a
and 17b) likewise consists of a flat plate 172, the plate being on its side,
and provided for
screwing or adhering to a flat surface (whether a wall or otherwise).
Alternatively, a
curved plate can be used for attachment of the mount to a column.
As shown in Figures 2 and 17, end cap 170 includes a socket 174 extending
therefrom. Socket 174 of end cap 170 is used to attach the end cap to the rod
or track
220. Preferably, screws are used to secure the track to the end cap (and
likewise to attach
other components together as shown in the figures). In one preferred
embodiment, the
cross section of socket 174 is a four sided polygon with three straight and
one curved
side, to correspond to one of the preferred embodiments of a track for
insertion therein.
Ceiling mount 160 likewise includes a socket 164 extending therefrom, as shown
in Figures 2 and 16. Socket 164 of ceiling mount 160 can be used for attaching
the
ceiling mount to vertical mount 210. Alternatively, if a lower track is
desired (i.e. a track
which hangs farther from the ceiling), extension 240 can be used, as shown in
Figure 4.
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As shown in that figure, in that embodiment a ceiling mount 230 is attached to
the
extension 240, which attaches to adapter or socket 180, which in turn is
attached to
vertical mount 210. Due to the desired length of extension 240 (up to
approximately 24
inches), a hollow tube construction is used for that extension to provide
torsional stability
(with adapter 180 being used to mate vertical mount 210 with extension 240).
In a preferred embodiment, the track includes a side support, with one end of
the
side support being attached to the track and the other being attached to a
fixed support,
whether directly or through another component. Thus, the side support can be a
side
mount, or a vertical mount, or the combination of a side mount and vertical
mount.
Whether the side mount and/or vertical mount are used individually or in
combination,
they act as side supports to attach a side of the track to a fixed support.
Thus, a side
mount can be attached to a side of the track on one end, with the side mount
extending
parallel or approximately parallel to the ground, and having a second end for
attachment
to a vertical fixed support, such as a column (such as the column of a
building), or a stand
(such as the stand of a movable support for use at a trade show). Or, the
vertical mount
can be used to attach the track to a horizontal fixed support, such as a
ceiling or other
overhead support. For example, one end of the vertical mount 210 can be
attached to the
side of a track section 220, to act as a side support secured to the track,
with the other end
extending toward the ceiling to suspend the side of the track from the
ceiling. The
vertical mount 210 can be attached directly to the side of the track or
through a side
mount 210; if attached directly to the side, the vertical mount and side mount
can be
integrated into a single unit.
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In the preferred embodiment, the bottom of vertical mount 210 is attached to
one
end of side mount 190. For example, the end 218 of vertical mount 210 can be
inserted
into and screwed to a socket 192 at the end of the side mount 190. The other
end of side
mount 190 is attached to the length of track, by attaching it to a side of the
track section
220. Since the vertical mount is curved or C-shaped, or the combination of the
vertical
mount and side mount forms a curve or C-shape, the attachment form a curved or
approximately C-shaped connection between the ceiling and the track, as shown
in
Figures 3-4.
Various connections can be made between the side mount and the track section
220. For example, in one embodiment, side mount 190 includes an end piece 194
(shown
in Figures 19a-b) which is configured for insertion into the groove 222 of
track 220
(shown in Figure 22a) and/or groove 930 of Figure 25. Preferably groove 222 is
horizontal, although a vertical groove can alternatively be provided if
desired. In a
further embodiment of the invention, a twist lock mechanism is provided for a
side mount
195, as shown in Figure 26. In accordance with this mechanism, side mount 195
is
inserted into the groove of the track and then rotated to affix it in place.
Width (Wb) of
the end of component 195 is less than the height (Hg) of the groove in the
track
component, whereas height (Hb) of the end of side mount 195 is equal to (or
slightly
greater than) the height (Hg) of the groove. Accordingly, the side mount is
initially
inserted with the end sideways such that width Wb is oriented along the height
of the
groove, with the component sliding easily (due to its small width). Once the
side mount
is at the correct spot along the track, the component is rotated 90 degrees so
that the side
mount 195 is wedged tightly in place, due to height Hb being equal to the
height Fig of
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the groove (or slightly greater in height if the material of the component is
slightly
flexible).
In an alternative embodiment, there is a flap1002 (Fig. 36), to cover the slit
between the rings. The flap can be attached to the top of the opening. The
flap can hang
on either the front or back of the curtain, or alternatively on both the front
and back of the
curtain. The bottom of the flap 1002 is made looser so that it can slide over
the track as
the curtain is being installed or while the curtain is moving along the track.
The flap
blocks light from passing through the curtain and bothering a patient in a bed
on the other
side of the curtain.
The track is preferably provided in track sections 220, wherein individual
sections
can be attached together to reach any length desired using couplers 200. Each
side of
coupler 200 slides into the groove 222 of a track section 220 to connect
together the two
track sections, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. Any number of track sections 220,
whether
two, three, five, ten, twenty or more, can be attached together to form any
length of track
desired. In addition, each section 220 of the track can be linear or curved,
and each
coupler 200 can likewise be linear or curved, to achieve any configuration
desired and
surround any shaped space regardless of the environment.
In an alternative embodiment, there is a continuous track which is made of one
track section that extends through the length of the track. The continuous
guiderail 922 is
positioned higher up than the preferred embodiment, above the side support.
This
positioning, as seen in Figure 35, allows for better interface between the
guiderail and the
inward facing finger-like extension protruding from the mouth of the ring.
This would
further stabilize the curtain as the guiderail would block rotation of the
ring due to its
18
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
interaction with the inward-facing finger-like extension. It would block the
ring from
being able to rotate and reach the 12 o'clock position, a position which would
cause the
ring to become detached from the track.
Thus, in a new installation the various components of the invention fit
together in
relative relationship as shown by the exploded view of Figure 3. If desired,
extension
240 and adapter 180 can be used to lower the track as shown by the exploded
view of
Figure 4.
In a further embodiment of the invention, the modular system of the invention
can
be attached to an existing track system, e.g., a pre-existing track system
already mounted
in a hospital room. In this embodiment, shown in the exploded view of Figure
5, track
mount 150 is used (shown in Figures 15a and 15b). Track mount 150 attaches to
the
existing track of the prior art by sliding prong 152 into groove 12 of that
existing track
(shown in Figure 1) where the prior art rollers 14 would normally slide. As
many track
mounts 150 as desired or needed can be attached to the pre-existing track.
Once the track mount has been inserted into the pre-existing track, vertical
mount
210 is then attached to the track mount. Vertical mount 210 is attached to
side mount 190
as shown, with the remainder of the component attachments being conducted as
in a new
installation. An exploded view showing the relative positions of the
components during
installation to an existing track is shown in Figure 5. (Although the existing
track is not
shown in that figure, it will be understood that track mount 150 slides into a
groove 12 of
the existing track, such as shown in Figure la).
Accordingly, consistent with the invention, a track system of modular
construction and design is provided which can span unlimited lengths, as long
as there is
19
88006-1
a secure wall, ceiling or pole to attach it to. The system is adaptable to a
large variety of shapes to
conform to any shaped area. The specially designed components of the system
allow the track to
be attached to ceilings, dropped ceilings, walls, existing cubicle tracks and
even free standing
columns (by using the end caps having a curved plate), allowing use in a wide
variety of
applications. Additionally, the system includes intermediate attachments fixed
to a ceiling along
the length of the track to support the weight of the curtain for longer
lengths.
These modular track configurations of the invention are designed for use with
a curtain 60
having a series of integrated rings 62 therein, as shown in Figures 6-14. In
preferred
embodiments, rings 62 are circular or oval in shape. These rings form opposed
pairs 62a and 62b
that are designed to fit over track 220 as shown in Figures 7, 9 and 10. The
rings 62 are related to
those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 5,186,232, as preferably modified by the
disclosures of U.S.
Patent Nos. 6,494,248; 6,935,402; and 7,296,609; and as further modified by
the additional
disclosure herein.
As shown in Figure 10, ring 62 balances on track section or rod 220, with the
rings sliding
along the top surface of the track 220 during use. Vertical support 210 is
used to position the
track within the openings 63 of rings 62. Thus, rings 62, track 230, and
vertical support 210 are
mutually configured to cooperate and to allow the curtain to slide easily
along the track. At the
same time, they are also designed to allow easy insertion and removal of the
curtain onto and off
of the track.
As shown in Figures 37 and 38, double ring 62 balances on track 220, with the
rings
sliding along track 220 during use. Thus, rings allow the curtain to slide
easily
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-06-02
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
along the track. (By the term "double ring" is meant that each ring in this
embodiment of
the present invention consists of two rings that interface the curtain on both
sides of the
curtain, effectively sandwiching the curtain between the double ring. In
contrast, a single
ring embodiment of the present invention (Figs. 39-40, e.g). interfaces the
curtain on one
side of the curtain only.) The inward facing finger-like extension 1000
protruding from
the mouth of the ring interacts with the guiderail 922 of the track to provide
further
stability. The guiderail 922 blocks the rotation of the curtain rings as it
interacts with the
inward facing finger-like extension 1000 while the curtain slides across the
length of the
track. This is designed to prevent the rings of the curtain from coming off of
the track.
There are a variety of forms which this ring can take. As shown in Figure 27
the
ring can have two internal extensions 1010 and 1012. As shown in Figure 28,
the ring can
have one single straight internal extension. As shown in Figure 29, the ring
can have a
single straight internal extension that has a vertical rise 1014 extending
from the end of
the extension 1000. As shown in Figure 30, there can be a single internal 1016
and
external 1015 finger-like extension. As shown in Figure 31, the ring can have
a notch
1018 in the mouth of the ring, acting as the internal extension. As shown in
Figure 32, the
ring can have a single curved internal extension 1020. As shown in Figure 33,
the ring
can have a larger notch 1019 in the mouth of the ring, as compared with Figure
31,
likewise acting as the internal extension.
Rings or openings 62 are either integral parts of the curtain (i.e. are
openings in
the curtain, such as reinforced holes without a separate attached ring), or
preferably are
relatively rigid rings attached to openings in the curtain's more flexible
material. In the
preferred embodiment of the invention, rings 62 have been configured such that
ring
21
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
opening (ring mouth) 68 is angled and dimensioned corresponding to the entry
angle of
the bottom of the side mount 190 (affixed to vertical support 210) as shown,
for example,
in Figure 10. In this preferred embodiment, the ring mouth is a large gap,
with that
mouth or gap being directed at an angle down toward the ground when the
curtain is
hanging on the track.
Preferably, this angle is greater than zero degrees down off of an imaginary
horizontal reference line parallel to the ground (such that zero degrees would
correspond
to a flat, horizontal, gap) but angled less than or at most ninety degrees
downward.
Further preferably, the angle is sixty degrees or less, or forty five degrees
or less, or thirty
degrees or less, down from a horizontal reference line. As previously noted,
the
particular angle further preferably corresponds to the entry angle of the
bottom of side
mount 190, which is the angle upward formed between segments 196 and 198 of
side
mount 190, i.e. the angle formed between segments 196 and 198 when segment 196
is
affixed to bottom end 218 of vertical support 210, with bottom end 218 of
vertical
support 210 and segment 196 being horizontal (or approximately horizontal),
according
to one preferred embodiment.
Ring mouth 68 or 900 is an open slot allowing the ring to glide past the bar
support, and providing the ability to hold the weight of the curtain while
maintaining the
easy on/off nature of the ring and system concept. Preferably, the ring mouth
is
sufficiently wide to allow the ring to easily be inserted onto the track
without needing to
flex the ring (or alternatively, without needing it flex it too excessively),
yet narrow
enough to sit on the track without easily coming off during use, with the
width/narrowness of the mouth also being configured to easily pass the support
mounts.
22
88006-1
Slit 76 of the curtain is likewise a wide slit, i.e. a slit dimensioned with a
sufficiently large width
to allow easy attachment and detachment of the curtain, and facilitate easy
sliding of the curtain
along the rod.
A projection, extension or finger can also be provided to the side of the ring
or the mouth
of the ring as shown in Figures 18, 19 and 20 of U.S. Patent Nos. 6,494,248;
6,935,402; and
7,296,609. One or two projections can be provided off of the ring, as with the
projecting edge,
flange, extension, or finger discussed in those patents. The projections can
be off of the side of
the ring and/or off of the ring's mouth. For example, one or two projections
can be provided,
each projection being located adjacent to and to the side of the ring mouth.
If two extensions are
provided, one is preferably provided on each side of the mouth. For example,
one preferred
embodiment has a finger-like extension 1013 at the end of the ring mouth which
will serve to
stabilize the ring on the track, further preventing it from rotating or coming
off during use.
In a further embodiment of the invention, the track system includes at least
one guiderail
922, as shown in Figure 25a, c, d and e. Guiderail 922 of Figure 25a is a bar,
rail, shelf, flange,
lip or edge 924 which projects or extends from the back 926. Thus, guiderail
922 projects out
from the body 224 of track section 220, and preferably also extends along that
body. The
guiderail 922 provides a unique interface between the curtain and track which
improves the
movement of the curtain on the track, and acts as a stabilizer bar. The
guiderail also interferes
with and prevents detachment of the ring from the track during use.
23
Date Recue/Date Received 2021-06-02
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
In a preferred embodiment, guiderail 922 is positioned above the side support.
This positioning allows for better interface between the guiderail and the
inward facing
finger-like extension 1013 protruding from the mouth of the ring (see, e.g.,
Fig., 38). In
this embodiment there is even more stability provided as the finger-like
extension
interacts with the guiderail in a way that blocks the ring from rotation.
The guiderail may be provided along part or all of the inner perimeter of the
track,
and can project outward by any desired distance. The guiderail can also
project from the
track at any desired angle, whether ninety degrees, or any other angle from
zero to 180
degrees. Thus, the guiderail can angle toward the floor or the ceiling (or
anywhere in
between) when the track is mounted.
In a preferred embodiment, the guiderail 922 extends horizontally, or
approximately horizontally, from the body 224 of the track component. Further
preferably, the guiderail is perpendicular (at a 90 degree angle) to the body
224 of the
track, and is preferably parallel to the ground. In that embodiment, the
combination of
the body 220 of the track, and the guiderail 922 extending from it form the
shape of, or
approximately the shape of a sideways "T" (a "T" resting on its side, so that
the
combination of body and guiderail are approximately T-shaped in cross-
section). In
other words, the body 224 of the track provides the vertical bar of the T
(which would be
the top segment of the T if the T were not on its side), and the guiderail or
stabilizer bar
922 provides the attached horizontal bar (which would be the vertical segment
of the T if
the T were not on its side). Those vertical and horizontal bars can themselves
be any
shape, length, or cross section desired. In a preferred embodiment, the
guiderail is also,
preferably, positioned near the bottom edge of the track, although,
alternatively, it can be
24
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
positioned anywhere from the top to the bottom edge of the track section. At
least one
guiderail is provided on a track section, although more can be used if
desired.
The guiderail can also extend from either side of the track, whether the inner
perimeter or outer perimeter or both. For example, it can extend from the side
that the
vertical support and side mount attach to (referred to as the back side,
merely for
reference); or the opposite side (referred to as the front side, for
reference); or both sides
of the track.
In a preferred embodiment, the guiderail extends from the back side of the
track
(the inner perimeter when it surrounds a bed), as shown in Figure 25. In this
embodiment, the guiderail can be attached to any part of the track component
of Figure
25b by sliding the back 926 into groove 930 of the track (or by otherwise
attaching the
guiderail to the track component), to form the track. As shown in Figures 25c
and d, the
guiderail is inserted into the groove of the body 224 of the track section to
extend from
that body.
In a preferred embodiment, the guiderail is positioned on the upper portion of
the
track above the side support. As shown in Figure 35, the guiderail is on the
upper portion
of the track.
As an alternative to a detachable guiderail, the guiderail and track component
can
be constructed or molded as a single integrated unit. In other words, the body
224 of the
track 220 and the guiderail 922 can be detachable (as shown in the figures),
or the body
224 and guiderail 922 can formed into a single, non-detachable unit. In any of
the
embodiments of the invention, the guiderail can be the same material as the
track
component or a different material, if desired.
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
As discussed above, the curtain is designed with a ring that has a mouth which
can pass over the vertical supports and/or the side mount (which are
preferably attached
to the side of of the track). The preferred ring is a C-shaped ring (such as
ring 62, for
example), with the mouth or gap 900 in the ring being the gap in the "C".
Further
preferably, a combination curtain 60 and track component 220 is used, wherein
the
curtain uses the C-shaped ring described above, and the track component 220
has the
guiderail 922 extending therefrom. In this preferred embodiment, the guiderail
922
extends toward the gap 900. Or, the guiderail 922 can extend or project into
the gap 900
of the ring 62, whether partially into that gap, or into and through that gap.
An alternative embodiment has a ring with a finger-like extension (Figs. 27-33
and 36-45) projecting inward or outward. There are a variety of forms which
this ring can
take. The ring can have one, or multiple extensions. These extensions can be
straight or
curved. The extension can have a straight vertical rise. The extension can
alternatively
consist of a large or small notch in the mouth of the ring.
Thus, in that preferred embodiment, as shown in Figures 25d and 25e, the
curtain
includes an opening therein with an inner circumference, that opening being
integral to
the curtain, or being a ring 62 having an inner circumference 72. The top 70
of the inner
circumference 72 of that opening or ring 62 rests on the top 226 of the track
220 when the
curtain is stationary; with that top 70 of the inner circumference gliding on
and along that
top 226 of the track when the curtain is moved along the track.
As also shown in Figure 25e, guiderail 922 extends into mouth 900 of ring 62,
with the top surface 938 of the guiderail 922 being opposite the top surface
910 of the
mouth 922 and the bottom surface 936 of the guiderail 922 being opposite the
bottom
26
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
surface 890 of the mouth 922, when the curtain is suspended from the track
section.
Preferably, the top and bottom surfaces of the guiderail are spaced from the
top and
bottom surfaces of the mouth. Alternatively, the top surface of the mouth can
rest against
the top surface of the guiderail and/or the bottom surface of the mouth can
rest against the
bottom surface of the guiderail. In certain embodiments, the mouth of the ring
can glide
above and along the length of the guiderail when the curtain is moved along
the track.
As shown in Figures 25d and 25e, a wide mouth ring is preferably provided to
facilitate the movement of the mouth over the vertical support 210 and side
mount 190
when the curtain is moved along the track. In a preferred embodiment, as shown
in
Figure 25d, the ring mouth's width (Wr) is larger than the width Wt at the top
226 of the
track 220, to facilitate placement of the ring on the track. It should be
noted that the
mouth is only wider than the width of the track Wt when the mouth is being
inserted onto
the top of the track (i.e. when the mouth is in the 6:00 position) ¨ the mouth
is not wider
than the height of the track (Ht). Alternatively, the ring mouth can be wider
than the
height of the track when using a rounded track or a track with a lesser
height.
As also shown in Figures 25d and 25e, guiderail or stabilizer bar 922 blocks
rotation of the movement of the mouth of the ring, restricting excessive
upward or
downward rotation, and also preventing accidental detachment of the ring from
the track.
During use, it is common for the ring to move about one or more axes of the
track,
whether to partially rotate or swing about the track, or so forth. For
example, when a user
pulls down on the curtain of Figure 25d (from the right side of the figure
towards the
left), the mouth of the ring will normally rotate upward (toward the dotted
outline marked
"4" on the figure, i.e. clockwise). Conversely, pulling down on the curtain of
that figure
27
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
(from the left side of the figure towards the right), will normally rotate the
mouth of the
ring downward (toward the dotted outline marked "3" on the figure, i.e.
counterclockwise).
In an alternative embodiment there is a finger-like extension protruding from
the
mouth of the ring which provides additional stability. The extension 1010,
1012, 1013,
1014, 1015, 1016, 1018, 1019, 1020 (Figs. 27-33) blocks rotation of the
movement of the
mouth of the ring, restricting excessive upward or downward rotation, and
preventing
accidental detachment from the track (which may otherwise occur when the ring
is in a
12 o'clock position).
In the embodiment in which the guiderail 922 extends into mouth 900, the
guiderail restricts this rotational movement, blocking any excessive,
undesired, rotation
of the ring. A finger-like extension as shown in Figures 27-33 can further
block
excessive or undesired rotation of the ring. As shown in Figure 25d, upon
initial rotation,
the mouth of the ring will hit the guiderail 924 preventing further rotation
upward or
downward. In particular, the inside top surface 910 or inside bottom surface
890 of the
mouth or gap 900 of the ring will hit or contact the guiderail or stabilizer
bar 922 once
rotation exceeds a certain predetermined angle, blocking further rotation of
the ring.
Furthermore, this configuration prevents detachment of the ring from the
track. Since the
height Ht of the body 224 of track section 220 is greater than width Wr of
mouth 900 of
the ring, the ring cannot be accidentally detached. Specifically, the ring
cannot be
detached from the track when the mouth is in another position other than one
near the top
of the track. To achieve this, the ring 62 must be pushed from the right to
the left of
Figure 25d until the guiderail no longer extends into the mouth 900, and then
the ring
28
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
must be rotated clockwise until the gap 900 coincides with width Wt of the
body 224 of
track section 220. As width Wt is less than width Wr, the ring can now be
pulled
downward and off the track.
Furthermore, since the guiderail 922 restricts rotation of the ring, the
guiderail
prevents the mouth 900 from catching on the top 226 of the track section 220
during use.
By preventing excessive ring rotation and keeping the top of the inner
circumference of
the ring aligned with the top of the track, the guiderail stabilizes the
motion of the ring so
as to provide comfortable and smooth movement of the curtain along the track.
In the
alternative embodiment shown in Figure 38, the guiderail also stabilizes the
motion of the
ring through its interaction with extension 1000.
The guiderail can extend along part or all of the track to extend along the
entire
periphery of the track, or any portion thereof, as desired. Thus, for any
adjacent first
track section, second track section and third track sections, the guiderail
can be included
on all of those sections, or can be left off of any of those sections. Even a
partial
guiderail provides a benefit, as that guiderail restricts rotation of the ring
located along it,
and thereby further restricts rotation to a certain degree in adjacent areas
of the curtain.
In addition, while one guiderail per track section is preferred, multiple
guiderails can
alternatively be provided, if desired.
As shown in Figure 25e, the guiderail and side mount (and/or vertical mount)
are
preferably aligned, so that the mouth of the ring moves smoothly over both. In
other
words, preferably the guiderail 922 passes through the mouth 900 of ring 62,
with that
mouth 900 gliding along the guiderail 922 (whether the mouth is spaced from
the
guiderail or in contact with it), when the curtain is moved along the length
of the track.
29
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
Likewise preferably, and as also shown in Figure 25e, the vertical mount 210
and/or the
side mount 190 also pass through mouth 900 when the curtain moves along that
track.
In addition, as shown in Figures 21a-21b, vertical mount 210 is preferably a
curved component. That curved component preferably has at least one segment
which is
approximately in a C-shape, to accommodate the sliding of the curtain within
the space
enclosed by segments 214, 216 and 218. As shown in that figure, segment 214
extends in
a direction away from the curtain, segment 216 extends down parallel or
approximately
parallel to the edge of the curtain, and segment 218 travels back toward the
curtain.
Alternatively, a more rounded or hemispherical configuration C-shape can also
be used,
provided that the dimensioning is configured to allow the curtain to easily
slide within the
space enclosed by the vertical mount. The vertical mount also has end 212 for
attachment to a fixed support or to a ceiling mount.
Accordingly, using the design provided a modular section of curtain (usually
six
feet long) can be easily attached to the track in one simple movement, and can
be
accomplished by a single person without the use of tools. Since there is no
moving part
other than the curtain, movement is quieter, smoother and more stable than
existing track
curtains. The materials used for the track and ring are further selected to
maximize the
smooth and quiet movement of the ring on the track.
In an alternative embodiment, a loading zone 1003 (Figs. 46-49) can be
included
on the track. The loading zone comprises a narrower section at the beginning
of the track
on which the rings of the curtain are initially loaded, the narrow nature of
this section
facilitating insertion into the rings. The narrow nature of this section
allows for horizontal
mounting of the curtain, as opposed to the vertical mounting which may
otherwise be
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
necessary. The curtain rings slide onto the loading zone more easily and then
continue to
the thicker part of the track which widens out after the loading zone section.
In one
embodiment, the thicker portion of the track further comprises outwardly
extending
guides 1030, 1032 (Fig. 47) for additional stability. The narrowness and
horizontal
insertion allow the track to be positioned higher up and closer to the
ceiling, which
further limits ring rotation as the ring would hit the ceiling and be stopped
if rotation
were attempted.
Likewise, the use of minimal moving parts also ensures that the system is more
reliable and less costly than the systems of the prior art. The system and
curtain design
further ensures that the curtain will not come off the track or become
entangled. The
manner in which the curtain drapes due to the paired ring configuration also
eliminates tie
backs, reduces bulk, and is more aesthetic than the prior art curtains, such
as those
currently used in hospitals and related settings (such as nursing homes).
Furthermore, as shown in Figures 11, 12 and 13, the curtains themselves can be
provided in modular sections that can be attached or removed to the track in
sections. As
shown in Figure 12, adjacent overlapping sections of curtain can be used to
form entry
areas within the curtain, allowing entry to the bed environment wherever
desired (e.g. at a
mid point of the curtain, rather than at the far ends of the curtain as with
existing
systems). Likewise, the side edges of the curtains can be attached together
using
VELCRO , snaps, buttons, or so forth as shown in Figure 11. This feature can
likewise
be used to form doors within the curtain length. Thus, sections of curtains
can be
attached to each other, overlap each other, or remain separate from one
another as needed
in the particular environment.
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CA 02870896 2014-11-14
If desired, two (or more) curtains can be layered one on top of the other, as
shown
in Figure 13. As shown in that figure, Curtain A forms the entire outer layer
of the
enclosure, while Curtain B forms the entire inner layer of the enclosure
around the bed,
the two curtains overlapping with each other along much or all of their
length. As one
example, this configuration can be used with a disposable liner (as Curtain B)
along the
inner area of the enclosure. The disposable liner can be discarded or
destroyed when
blood or other biohazardous materials splatter on it, rather than autoclaving
or sterilizing
it. The outer Curtain A in this (or any of the other embodiments) can in
contrast be more
durable and attractive, fabricated in a multitude of finishes to complement
the
surrounding environment.
The layering can also be used to achieve two different environments. In one
preferred embodiment, the outside curtain is designed to complement or blend
in with the
room decor, while the inside curtain is customized to the particular patient.
For example,
the inside curtain can be colored and patterned suitable for the age, gender,
interests, and
tastes of the patient, with a child-like interiors being available for a young
child; a
feminine interior provided for a female patient; a sports interior provided
for a sports fan
(whether young or old); and so forth.
Moreover, these short sections of curtain can be attached to and removed from
the
track individually without needing to remove the entire curtain, whether for
cleaning,
maintenance or so forth. Thus the track and curtain design not only allows
multiple entry
points, but also provides the ability to remove or attach sections as needed.
Accordingly,
the facility can more easily launder sections of curtain using standard
washers and dryers,
rather than sending them out for laundering using more expensive commercial
units.
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Nonetheless, as discussed above, the curtains can still be snapped together to
create long
or 'unlimited lengths' and can be disassembled for cleaning or switching out
(such that
one can clean a part of the curtain without needed to clean the entire
length).
This curtain also has a cleaner upper edge appearance than the prior art
hospital
privacy curtains ¨ whether the curtain is spread around a bed or stacked. The
curtains
also align (e.g. stack or bunch) in a much narrower silhouette ¨ a 24 foot
curtain's stack
is approximately twenty inches wide rather than the approximately forty eight
inches (or
four feet) of the prior art.
Since the curtain is attached onto the track (rather than hanging a distance
below
it) it also allows less light to enter, when that is desirable. Moreover, a
modular adaptor
can be used to adjust the distance between the track and curtain (e.g. to
provide a greater
distance between the curtain and track, to lower the curtain if needed or
desired). In an
alternative embodiment, a flap 1002, as shown in Figure 36, can be used to
block the
light from shining through the space between the rings of the curtain. The
flap can be
made out of various fabrics and materials known in the art and suitable for
blocking light,
such as the same material as the curtain itself. Alternatively, or
additionally, a separate
mesh header can be provided for attachment to a lower section of curtain (via
snaps or
VELCRO etc.) to allow for compliance with fire suppression codes where
applicable.
In further embodiments, sections of the curtain can be provided with built-in
pockets to hold medical charts, medication, or so forth. Disposable curtains
can be
provided as discussed above and any other features desired can also be
included with the
disposable or regular curtains, whether integrated air fresheners and/or anti-
bacterial
treatments, liquid dispensers, or so forth. Varieties of curtains can be
provided of
33
CA 02870896 2014-11-14
different light transmittivity for different applications, whether opaque,
translucent, or
transparent, as needed. Similarly, different degrees of sound blockage can be
provided
(e.g. based on the thickness and composition of the material), without making
the curtain
unduly unwieldy or heavy due to the ability to use modular sections of much
smaller size.
Having described the invention with respect to particular embodiments, it will
be
understood that the description is not intended to be limiting, it being
apparent that
modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention
described
herein. For example, various dimensions, shapes and so forth are merely for
illustration
of various preferred embodiments and are not intended as limitations upon the
scope of
the invention hereon. Likewise, as a further example, while a modular system
is
preferred, the teachings of the present invention can alternately be applied
to a non-
modular as well. The scope of the present application and invention is
intended to cover
all such modifications and variations as would be apparent to one of ordinary
skill in the
art, and all equivalents to the embodiments described herein.
The above description and drawings are considered that of the preferred
embodiments of the present invention only. Modifications of the invention will
occur to
those skilled in the art and to those who make or use the invention. Therefore
it is
understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings are merely for
illustrative
purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention.
34
