Strengths and limits of a modular magnetic wall panel system

Abstract

This paper explores the feasibility of fabricating and employing an innovative appendage-free modular magnetic interior wall system that allows non-technical users to modify interior spaces to their spatial needs without any need for specialized expertise. The modular magnetic wall panel system tested in this study is composed of free-standing panels with magnetized upright frames for tessellated linkage. In this project, real-scale prototypes were produced and roughly tested for stability to verify that manufacturing is possible and to identify areas for design improvement. Forces were enacted perpendicular to the panel façade in free-standing and linked configurations to mimic probable leaning behaviours by users. Results of rough tests confirm production feasibility and the stability of linked panel assemblies but design improvements must be applied to stabilize the free-standing configuration. Design development and possible enhancements are discussed based on findings. Standardized testing of the enhanced prototype is also recommended.

KEYWORDS:

• Freestanding partitions
• flexible spaces
• moveable walls
• office partition system
• freestanding wall system
• modifiable interiors

Disclosure statement

It is disclosed that the main author was formerly employed by the start-up that originally commissioned the work for the unregistered prototype version. The same author is also the project leader and sole inventor registered in the intellectual property ownership (IPO) of the utility model tested in this research. The IPO was registered through a public university where all authors are employed as instructors. The university also funded the project, and provided additional compensation to the authors in the form of research honoraria. Some materials were personally procured by the team to fast-track the project.

Data availability statement

Data that is critical to the findings of this study are available within the article. Data particulars and prototype specifics may be supplied by request from the corresponding author.

Notes

1 The weight of early prototypes was only approximated by the craftsmen hired to manufacture it. These prototypes were never weighed in accredited and calibrated weighing centres.

2 These observations are based on first-hand recollection of the designer and casual conversations with the client.

3 Weighing was not performed in accredited and calibrated weighing centres.

4 The university that provided the grant has not instituted an ethics review board as of the conduct of this project. While waivers were signed, the methodology could not be reviewed by an ethics board. For these reasons, we opted to conduct the tests with members of the research team who are all employed by the same university.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by University of Science & Technology of Southern Philippines.