MODULAR PARTITION TRACK SYSTEM

A modular partition track system includes a modular base portion configured to be positioned on a ground surface. A first track subsystem is positioned on at least a portion of a first surface of the modular base portion. The first track subsystem includes one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies configured to slide along the first track sub system.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to partition systems and, more particularly, for modular partition track systems.

BACKGROUND

Partition or fence systems are typically deployed to help isolate particular areas from access. However, conventional fence systems are generally either permanently deployed or are difficult to assemble and disassemble in a temporary manner. For example, many pool owners utilize fence systems to temporarily partition their pools from access during certain periods of time (e.g., in the presence of small children, during regular cleaning, etc.). However, these fence systems are cumbersome to deploy.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, a modular partition track system includes a modular base portion configured to be positioned on a ground surface and a first track subsystem positioned on at least a portion of a first surface of the modular base portion. The first track subsystem further includes one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies configured to slide along the first track subsystem.

One or more of the following features may be included. The modular partition track system may include a second track subsystem positioned on at least a portion of a second surface of the modular base portion, the second track subsystem may include one or more second slidable portions configured to slide along the second track subsystem. The one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies of the first track subsystem and the one or more second slidable portions of the second track subsystem may be configured to slide independently of each other. The first track subsystem may be positioned on a top surface of the modular base portion and the second track subsystem may be positioned on a bottom surface of the modular base portion. The one or more second slidable portions include one or more mounting assemblies. The one or more mounting assemblies may be configured to releasably engage one or more apertures formed within the ground surface. The one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies may be configured to be removably coupled to one or more partition posts of a collapsible partition assembly. One or more collapsible partition panels of the collapsible partition assembly may be configured to at least one of: expand as the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies are pulled apart from one another on the first track subsystem, and collapse as the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies are compressed together on the first track subsystem. The modular base portion may be configured to be removably couplable to at least one additional modular base portion. The first track subsystem of the modular base portion may be configured to join with a corresponding first track subsystem of the at least one additional modular base portion when the modular base portion may be coupled to the at least one additional modular base portion. Wherein the first track subsystem may be configured to extend along the length of the modular base portion. The one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies may be configured to slide along the length of the modular base portion. The second track subsystem may be configured to extend along the length of the modular base portion. The one or more second slidable portions may be configured to slide along the length of the modular base portion.

According to another embodiment, a modular partition track system includes a modular base portion and a first track subsystem positioned on at least a portion of a first surface of the modular base portion. The first track subsystem may include one or more first slidable portions configured to slide along the first track subsystem. The modular partition track system further may include a second track subsystem positioned on at least a portion of a second surface of the modular base portion. The second track subsystem may include one or more second slidable portions configured to slide along the second track sub system.

One or more of the following features may be included. The one or more first slidable portions include one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies. The one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies may be configured to be removably coupled to one or more partition posts of a collapsible partition assembly. The one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies include a threaded portion configured to receive a corresponding threaded sleeve portion configured to be removably coupled to a partition post of the one or more partition posts of the collapsible partition assembly. The modular partition track system may include an integrated lighting system.

According to yet another embodiment, a modular partition track system includes a modular base portion and a first track subsystem extending along the length of a top surface of the modular base portion. The first track subsystem may include one or more one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies configured to slide along the first track subsystem. The modular partition track system further includes a second track subsystem extending along the length of a bottom surface of the modular base portion, the second track subsystem may include one or more second one or more mounting assemblies configured to slide along the second track subsystem. The one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies are configured to be releasably coupled to one or more partition posts of a collapsible partition assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

In general, consistent with the present disclosure, a modular partition track system is provided. For example, and referring generally toFIGS. 1-8, in some embodiments, a modular partition track system may include a modular base portion configured to be positioned on a ground surface. A first track subsystem may be positioned on at least a portion of a first surface of the modular base portion. The first track subsystem may include one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies configured to slide along the first track subsystem.

As discussed above, partition or fence systems are typically deployed to help isolate particular areas from access. However, conventional fence systems are generally either permanently deployed or are difficult to assemble and disassemble in a temporary manner. For example, many pool owners utilize pool fence systems to temporarily partition their pools from access during certain periods of time (e.g., in the presence of small children, during regular cleaning, etc.). However, these pool fence systems are cumbersome to deploy. Accordingly, embodiments of the present disclosure may allow for a partition system to be deployed with minimal effort by simply positioning one or more modular base portions and coupling posts of the partition system to corresponding sliding portions of the modular partition track system. The partition system may slide along the modular track into a desired position. In this manner, the modular partition track system of the present disclosure may allow for convenient deployment of a partition system in a modular form that may account for particular environments.

In some embodiments, a modular partition track system may include a modular base portion configured to be positioned on a ground surface. Referring toFIG. 1and in some embodiments, a modular partition track system (e.g., modular partition track system10) may include a modular base portion (e.g., modular base portion12). Modular base portion12may be configured to be positioned on a ground surface. For example, modular base portion12may generally include a weighted structure configured to anchor a partition system. In some embodiments, modular base portion12may be formed from various materials (e.g., metals, metal alloys, plastics, wood products, etc.) and may be weighted (e.g., with internal weights and/or by virtue of the properties of the structure of modular base portion12) to stabilize a partition system. In this manner and as will be discussed in greater detail below, modular base portion12may be sufficiently weighted to allow movement of portions of a partition system along the first track subsystem without moving the entirety of modular partition track system10. While examples of weighting modular base portion12have been described, it will be appreciated that this is for example purposes only as modular base portion12may be secured or coupled to the ground, in the ground, or on any surface in various ways within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, modular base portion12may be secured to a surface using adhesives known in the art and/or fasteners or coupling systems known in the art. While the above discussion describes positioning modular base portion12on the ground surface, it will be appreciated that this is for example purposes only and that modular base portion12(or any other portion of modular partition track system10) may be positioned at least partially below ground. For example, a cut or trench may be formed in the ground such that the top surface of modular base portion12is generally ground level. However, it will be appreciated that modular base portion12may be positioned at any depth under the ground surface within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some implementations, modular base portion12may be a rigid structure and/or may be at least partially malleable. For example and in some embodiments, modular base portion12may be shaped (e.g., either at time of manufacture and/or when deploying modular partition track system10) into various configurations. In one example, modular base portion12may be shaped as a segment with no bends or curves. In another example, modular base portion12may be shaped with one or more curves or bends. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that modular base portion12may be sufficiently malleable to be shaped into any shape within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, modular base portion12may be configured in a generally trapezoidal shape (i.e., when viewed as a cross-section). Referring again toFIG. 1and in some implementations, modular base portion12may include a wide bottom surface and a narrow top surface with sloped sides. For example and as will be discussed in greater detail below, the wide bottom surface may provide for stability of a partition assembly coupled to a first track subsystem. In some embodiments, the bottom surface may be sufficiently wide to form gradual inclined edges between the bottom surface and the top surface. In this manner, individuals may traverse the modular base portion12safely and easily. While an example of a trapezoidal shape has been described, it will be appreciated that modular base portion12may be configured in any shape within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the modular base portion may be configured to be removably couplable to at least one additional modular base portion. Referring also to the example ofFIG. 2and in some embodiments, modular base portion12may be configured to be removably couplable to at least one additional modular base portion (e.g., modular base portion14). For example and as discussed above, modular base portion12may be a rigid structure formed (e.g., at the time of manufacturing) into a particular shape (e.g., a segment without bends or curves) while modular base portion14may be formed (e.g., at the time of manufacturing) into a different shape (e.g., a bend or curve shape). In this manner, modular base portion12and/or modular base portion14may be manufactured in various shapes and coupled to allow for custom configurations and layouts for modular partition track system10.

In some embodiments, modular base portion12may include one or more connectors for releasably coupling to at least one additional modular base portion (e.g., modular base portion14). Referring also toFIG. 3and in some embodiments, modular base portion12may include one or more connectors (e.g., connectors16,18) extending from a first end of modular base portion12that are configured to be received in corresponding slots of modular base portion14. In some embodiments, the one or more connectors (e.g., connectors16,18) may be integrated into modular base portion12and/or may be configured to be coupled to the corresponding slots of modular base portion14. For example, modular base portion12may include connectors (e.g., connectors16,18) that are configured to releasably couple to corresponding slots (e.g., slots20,22as shown inFIG. 1) of modular base portion14. In some embodiments, the one or more connectors may be releasably coupled to slots20,22of modular base portion12and slots20,22of modular base portion14. Accordingly, connectors16,18may not be integrated into modular base portion12and/or modular base portion14and may be inserted into slots of each modular base portion. In some embodiments, connectors16,18may be configured with biasing elements configured to secure connectors16,18in corresponding slots of modular base portion12. While examples of two connectors have been shown and described, it will be appreciated that any number of connectors may be used within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the modular partition track system may include a first track subsystem on at least a portion of a first surface of the modular base portion. Referring again to the example ofFIG. 1and in some embodiments, modular partition track system10may include a first track subsystem (e.g., first track subsystem24) positioned on at least a portion of a first surface (e.g., a top surface) of modular base portion12. In some embodiments, first track subsystem24may be at least partially integrated into the top surface of modular base portion10. Referring also to the example ofFIG. 4and in some embodiments, sloped edges of modular base portion12may define first track subsystem24with parallel grooves (e.g., grooves26,28) formed on opposite sides within modular based portion12. In this manner and as will be described in greater detail below, first track subsystem24may be configured to allow one or more first slidable portions (e.g., first slidable portions30,32) to slide along first track subsystem horizontally while preventing the one or more slidable portions from being removed (e.g., by application of force vertically).

In some embodiments, the first track subsystem may include one or more first slidable portions configured to slide along the first track subsystem. Referring also toFIG. 5and in some embodiments, first track subsystem24may include a plurality of rolling mechanisms (e.g., rolling mechanism34) positioned along the first track subsystem between parallel grooves26,28to allow first slidable portions30,32to slide along the length of first track subsystem24. In some embodiments, first slidable portions30,32may include one or more rollers, wheels, and/or curved extensions configured to extend into parallel grooves26,28. In this manner, first slidable portions30,32may be configured to slide or roll along the length of first track subsystem24.

In some embodiments, the first track subsystem may be configured to extend along the length of the modular base portion. Referring again to the example ofFIG. 1and in some embodiments, first track subsystem24may define a track for first slidable portions30,32to slide along. In some embodiments, first track subsystem24may extend along the entire length of modular base portion12such that first slidable portions30,32may slide along first track subsystem24between one end of modular base portion12to the other.

In some embodiments, the first track subsystem of the modular base portion may be configured to join with a corresponding first track subsystem of the at least one additional modular base portion when the modular base portion is coupled to the at least one additional modular base portion. Referring again toFIG. 2and in some embodiments, first track subsystem24of modular base portion10may be configured to join with first track subsystem36of modular base portion14when modular base portion12and modular base portion14are coupled together. In some embodiments, first slidable portions30,38may be configured to slide from first track subsystem24of modular base portion12to first track subsystem36of modular base portion14and vice versa. In this manner, by coupling modular base portion12and modular base portion14, first slidable portions30,38may be configured to slide along the combined length of the first track subsystem24and first track subsystem36. Accordingly, when joined with other first track subsystems, a continuous track for the first slidable portions may be formed.

In some embodiments, the one or more first slidable portions may include one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies. Referring again to the example ofFIG. 3and as will be discussed in greater detail below, first slidable portions30,32may be configured to receive at least a portion of a partition assembly. Accordingly, first slidable portions30,32may also be referred to as slidable partition coupling assemblies30,32within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies may be configured to be removably coupled to one or more partition posts of a collapsible partition assembly. Referring also to the example ofFIG. 6and in some embodiments, modular partition track system10may allow a partition assembly (e.g., a fence or other structure) to be deployed without requiring an upper or overhead track. For example modular base portion12may be weighted and sized (e.g., as discussed above) to allow a partition assembly (e.g., partition assembly40) to be deployed and moved along modular partition track system10without tipping over. As will be discussed in greater detail below and in some embodiments, modular partition track system10may include a second track subsystem with one or more mounting assemblies configured to removably couple modular partition track system10in the ground or to a surface.

In some embodiments, the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies may include an aperture (e.g., aperture42) configured to receive at least a portion of a partition post of a collapsible partition assembly. As shown in the example ofFIG. 3and in some embodiments, a partition post44may be slid (at least partially) into aperture42of slidable partition coupling assembly30. In some embodiments, aperture42may be formed in various sizes. For example, typical pool fence posts or poles have a diameter ranging from e.g., 0.5 inches to 1 inch. Accordingly, aperture42may be configured in various sizes to receive various post sizes. While example diameters have been described, it will be appreciated that these are for example purposes only and that aperture42may be sized to receive any sized partition post within the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, slidable partition coupling assembly30and/or partition post44may include one or more fasteners to removably couple partition post44to slidable partition coupling assembly30. Various fasteners known in the art may be used to removably couple partition post44to slidable partition coupling assembly30within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies may include a threaded portion configured to receive a corresponding threaded sleeve portion configured to be removably coupled to a partition post of the one or more partition posts of the collapsible partition assembly. Referring again to the example ofFIG. 3and in some embodiments, slidable partition coupling assembly32may include a threaded aperture (e.g., aperture46) configured to receive a threaded sleeve portion (e.g., threaded sleeve portion48). In some embodiments, threaded sleeve portion48may include a sleeve configured to receive at least a portion of partition post44and a threaded extension configured to be threaded into corresponding threads of threaded aperture46of slidable partition coupling assembly32. While an example of a threaded sleeve portion has been described, it will be appreciated that sleeve portion48may include various types of interlocking fasteners configured to engage corresponding fasteners within slidable partition coupling assembly32(e.g., corresponding magnetic portions, corresponding interlocking notches and extensions, press-fit assemblies, etc.) within the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, sleeve portion48may be configured to adapt partition post44to a particular aperture size. For example and as discussed above, typical pool fence posts or poles have a diameter ranging from e.g., 0.5 inches to 1 inch. As such sleeve portion48may be configured to receive a range of partition post sizes and may adapt the partition post for a particular aperture size and/or shape of a slidable partition coupling assembly (e.g., the size and shape of aperture46of slidable partition coupling assembly32).

In some embodiments, the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies may include a threaded portion configured to receive a threaded portion of a partition post of the one or more partition posts of the collapsible partition assembly. For example, partition post44may include an integrated threaded portion extending from one end of partition post44that may be threaded into corresponding threads of slidable partition coupling assembly32. While an example of a threaded portion of a partition post has been described, it will be appreciated that partition post44may include various types of interlocking fasteners or features configured to engage corresponding fasteners or features within slidable partition coupling assembly32(e.g., corresponding magnetic portions, corresponding interlocking notches and extensions, press-fit assemblies, etc.) within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, one or more collapsible partition panels of the collapsible partition assembly may be configured to expand as the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies are pulled apart from one another on the first track subsystem. Referring again to the example ofFIG. 6and in some embodiments, partition assembly40may include one or more collapsible partition panels (e.g., collapsible partition panel50). A collapsible partition panel may generally include a panel formed between two posts that is capable of being expanded and collapsed. For example, collapsible partition panel50may include, but is not limited to, a plurality of rigid portions configured to fold together, a fabric or non-rigid sheet of material, an accordion panel, a material configured to be pulled from a retractable wound roll, etc. An example of a collapsible partition is a pool fence configured to be installed adjacent a swimming pool, hot tub, or other recreational body of water. However, it will be appreciated that any type of partition or fence may be used within the scope of the present disclosure. As shown in the example ofFIG. 6and in some embodiments, as slidable partition coupling assembly30is pulled away from slidable partition coupling assembly32along first track subsystem24, collapsible partition panel50of partition assembly40may expand until collapsible partition panel50is fully expanded or fully taut.

In some embodiments, the one or more collapsible partition panels of the collapsible partition assembly may be configured to collapse as the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies are compressed together on the first track subsystem. As discussed above and in some embodiments, collapsible partition panel50may rely on tension between partition posts44and52to maintain its shape as a panel. Accordingly, as slidable partition coupling assembly30is slid along first track subsystem24toward slidable partition coupling assembly32, collapsible partition panel50may collapse (e.g., sag or slacken). In this manner, by sliding slidable partition coupling assembly30in one direction, a partition assembly may be deployed (e.g., with expanded panels between partition posts) in a particular position along first track subsystem24). The partition assembly may be removed (e.g., moved and/or collapsed) by sliding slidable partition coupling assembly30in the opposite direction.

Referring also toFIG. 7and in some embodiments, by pulling along a partition post of partition assembly40coupled to modular partition track system10, partition assembly40may be positioned along modular partition track system in various configurations.

In some embodiments, the modular partition track system may include a second track subsystem positioned on at least a portion of a second surface of the modular base portion, the second track subsystem including one or more second slidable portions configured to slide along the second track subsystem. Referring also toFIG. 8and in some embodiments, modular partition track system10may include a second track subsystem (e.g., second track subsystem54) positioned on at least a portion of a second surface (e.g., a bottom surface) of modular base portion12. In some embodiments, second track subsystem54may be at least partially integrated into the bottom surface of modular base portion12.

In some embodiments, the second track subsystem may include one or more second slidable portions configured to slide along the second track subsystem. Referring again toFIG. 8and in some embodiments, second track subsystem54may include a plurality of rolling mechanisms positioned along the second track subsystem to allow second slidable portions56,58to slide along the length of second track subsystem54. In some embodiments, second slidable portions56,58may include one or more rollers, wheels, and/or curved extensions configured to extend into modular base portion12. For example and referring again toFIG. 5, first track subsystem24and second track subsystem54may share or utilize a plurality of rolling mechanisms positioned within modular base portion12to slide the first slidable portions or the second slidable portions. In this manner, second slidable portions56,58may be configured to slide or roll along the length of second track sub system54.

In some embodiments, the second track subsystem of the modular base portion may be configured to join with a corresponding second track subsystem of the at least one additional modular base portion when the modular base portion is coupled to the at least one additional modular base portion. Referring again toFIGS. 3-4and in some embodiments, second track subsystem54of modular base portion12may be configured to join with second track subsystem60of modular base portion14when modular base portion12and modular base portion14are coupled together. In some embodiments, second slidable portions56,58may be configured to slide from second track subsystem54of modular base portion12to second track subsystem60of modular base portion14and vice versa. In this manner, by coupling modular base portion12and modular base portion14, second slidable portions56,58may be configured to slide along the combined length of the second track subsystem54and second track subsystem60. Accordingly, when joined with other second track subsystems, a continuous track for the second slidable portions may be formed.

In some embodiments, second track subsystem54may be limited to a particular modular base portion. For example and referring again toFIG. 8, second track subsystem54may be configured to start and end at the ends of modular base portion12. In this manner, second track subsystem54may be limited to modular base portion12.

In some embodiments, the one or more second slidable portions may include one or more mounting assemblies. For example and referring again toFIG. 8, second slidable portion56may include a mounting assembly (e.g., mounting assembly62). A mounting assembly may generally include any structure configured to releasably engage one or more corresponding mounting structures on and/or within a surface. In one example, mounting assembly62may include an extension configured to releasably engage one or more apertures formed within a ground surface. In some embodiments, mounting assembly62may include various sized extensions (e.g., different diameters or widths). For example, typical pool fence posts or poles have a diameter ranging from e.g., 0.5 inches to 1 inch, with 0.5 to 1 inch corresponding apertures in the ground or surface. Accordingly, mounting assembly62may be configured in various sizes to releasably engage the corresponding apertures. While example diameters have been described, it will be appreciated that these are for example purposes only and that mounting assembly62may be sized to releasably engage any sized aperture within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, mounting assembly62may include a mounting sleeve for scaling up or down the diameter or width of a partition post or pole connecting to the ground. For example, suppose that partition post44has a diameter of e.g., 1 inch and the corresponding apertures in the ground have a diameter of e.g., 1 inch while mounting assembly62has a diameter of e.g., 0.5 inches. In this example, mounting assembly62may be coupled to a mounting sleeve to scale up the diameter of mounting assembly62to releasably engage the corresponding apertures in the ground. While example diameters have been described, it will be appreciated that these are for example purposes only and that a mounting sleeve may be sized to releasably engage any sized aperture within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies of the first track subsystem and the one or more second slidable portions of the second track subsystem may be configured to slide independently of each other. Referring again to the example ofFIG. 8and in some embodiments, first slidable portion (or slidable partition coupling assembly30, as discussed above) of first track subsystem24may be configured to slide or operate within first track subsystem24independently from second slidable portion56of second track subsystem54. For example, when positioning modular track portion12, second slidable portions56,58of second track subsystem54may slide independently from first slidable portion30of first track subsystem24. In this manner, second slidable portions56,58may be positioned (e.g., by sliding along second track subsystem54) into alignment with one or more apertures in the ground or surface and a partition system may be independently moved by sliding first slidable portion30of first track subsystem24.

In some embodiments, the sleeve portion may include a skirt assembly configured to be coupled to the bottom of a partition post and coupled to the sleeve assembly. Referring again to the example ofFIG. 6and in some embodiments, sleeve portion48may include a skirt assembly (e.g., skirt assemblies66,68) that is coupled to the bottom of sleeve portion48(e.g., where sleeve portion48makes contact with slidable partition coupling assembly30) and is configured to be coupled to partition post44. In this manner, any gap between the bottom of partition assembly40may be covered by skirt assemblies66,68. It will be appreciated that various fasteners and/or coupling mechanisms may be used to coupled skirt assemblies66,68to partition post44within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, skirt assemblies66,68may interface with existing fasteners coupling partition panel50to partition post44to couple skirt assemblies66,68to partition post44. In some embodiments, skirt assemblies66,68may be coupled directly to partition post44without sleeve portion48.

In some embodiments, the modular partition track system may include an integrated lighting system. Referring again toFIG. 1and in some embodiments, modular track partition system10may include an integrated lighting system (e.g., lighting system70). As shown inFIG. 1, lighting system70may include a plurality of light sources positioned along the length of modular base portion12. Examples of light sources may include, but are not limited to, light emitting diodes (LEDs), fluorescent lights, halogen lights, and combinations thereof. In some implementations, light source may be positioned on slidable partition coupling assemblies30,32. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that lighting system70may include light sources positioned across various portions of modular partition track system10within the scope of the present disclosure.

Referring again to the example ofFIG. 3and in some embodiments, modular partition track system10may be configured to be coupled to a power supply and/or may include power source (e.g., solar panels) mounted on at least a portion of modular partition track system10. For example, a plurality of solar panels (e.g., solar panel72) may be positioned on a top surface of modular base portion12. In some embodiments, modular base portion12may include an inverter configured to convert direct current generated by solar panel72into alternating current for use by modular partition track system10and/or for coupling to a photovoltaic power system (e.g., a grid-tied power system). In some embodiments, modular partition track system10may include a plurality of rechargeable batteries or other power supplies that may be charged by solar panel72. WhileFIG. 3shows e.g., two solar panels, it will be appreciated that any number of solar panels in any configuration may be used within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, modular partition track system10may be configured to transmit power between modular base portions. For example and referring again toFIG. 3, modular base portion12may include a power transmission line configured to transmit power along the length of modular base portion12. In one example, a power transmission line of modular base portion12may include connectors configured to be coupled to corresponding connectors of modular base portion14. In another example, connectors of the power transmission line of modular base portion12may be integrated into one or more of connectors16,18. In this manner, when modular base portion12is physically coupled to modular base portion14, the power transmission line of modular base portion12may be electrically coupled to the power transmission line of modular base portion14. In some embodiments, the power transmission line may include a data transmission line. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the data transmission line may allow enhanced control of electronic components integrated into modular base portion12and/or electronic components coupled to modular base portion12.

In some embodiments, modular partition track system10may include a power module coupled to the power transmission line and configured to power components coupled to and/or integrated into modular partition track system10. As discussed above and in some embodiments, the power module may include an inverter for converting an electrical current generated by solar panel72from direct current to alternating current. In some embodiments, the power module of modular partition track system10may include multiple power modules (e.g., one power module for each module base portion) configured to distribute and regulate power supplied to various electronic components integrated into each modular base portion and/or electronic components coupled to each modular base portion. For example, modular partition track system10may provide power for integrated lighting system70, power to an integrated audio system (not shown), and/or power for coupling other components (e.g., external power ports or external USB ports, etc.). In this manner, modular partition track system10may provide power to various electronic components integrated into modular partition track system10and/or that may be electrically coupled to modular partition track system10(e.g., via an electrical connector). In some embodiments, modular partition track system10may be configured to physically and electrically couple to partition posts. In this manner, power may be provided to electronic components coupled to partition posts of the partition assembly.

In some embodiments and as discussed above, in addition to a power transmission line, modular partition track system10may include a data transmission line. In some embodiments and in addition to a power module, modular partition track system10may include a data interface module configured to provide control to electronic components coupled to and/or integrated within modular partition track system10. For example, the data interface module may include various hardware and/or software components known in the art that allow an electronic device (e.g., a remote control, a smartphone, a tablet, or any other computing device) to control the electronic components coupled to and/or integrated within modular partition track system10. In some embodiments, the data interface module may be coupled to the electronic devices via various wired and wireless communication protocols (e.g., a serial connection, Bluetooth®, Wi-Fi®, etc.). In this manner, various electronic components coupled to and/or integrated within modular partition track system10(e.g., lighting, audio systems, electronic components within modular partition track system10) may be controlled via external electronic devices.

In some embodiments and as discussed above, modular partition track system10may allow a partition assembly to be slid along the first track subsystem. In one example, this process may be performed manually by an individual pulling along the partition posts and/or the slidable partition coupling assemblies. In another example, first track subsystem24may be energized (e.g., with various motors, control systems, and power connections as discussed above) to drive the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies along first track subsystem24. As discussed above and in some embodiments, modular partition track system10may include various controls (e.g., a remote control, an interface for smartphones, tablets, or other computing devices, etc.) to operate the motorized movement of the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies along first track subsystem24. In this manner, modular partition track system10may allow for a motorized deployment of a partition assembly.

In some embodiments, modular partition track system10may include a partition assembly housing configured to store the un-deployed portions of the partition assembly. For example and as discussed above, suppose partition assembly40includes collapsible partition panels. In this example, when the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies are gathered together along first track subsystem24, the partition panels may be slackened. Modular partition track system10may include a partition assembly housing configured to cover the un-deployed portions of partition assembly40. As discussed above and as the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies are deployed along first track subsystem24, the partition panels may expand and the partition posts may be slid out of the partition assembly housing. In some embodiments, the partition assembly housing may be positioned on an end portion of modular partition track system10and the first track subsystem24on the end portion may be generally circular to gather the partition assembly in a smaller footprint. In this manner, partition assembly40may “wind” into and out of the partition assembly housing as the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies are slid along first track subsystem24.

In some embodiments and as discussed above, the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies may include a plurality of wheels configured to slide the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies within a pair of parallel grooves within the modular base portion. Referring also toFIGS. 9-10, the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies (e.g., slidable partition coupling assembly30) may include a plurality of wheels (e.g., wheels66,68,70). In the example ofFIG. 9, while three wheels are shown, it will be appreciated that a slidable partition coupling assembly may include any number of wheels within the scope of the present disclosure. As shown inFIG. 9and as discussed above, slidable partition coupling assembly30may include one or more partition post retention mechanisms (e.g., partition post retention mechanisms72,74). As discussed above, examples of partition post retention mechanisms72,74may include corresponding magnetic portions, corresponding interlocking notches and extensions, press-fit assemblies, and/or one or more set screws. Slidable partition coupling assembly30may include one or more cabling system attachment points (e.g., cabling system attachment point76) for removably coupling slidable partition coupling assembly30to a cabling system. Cabling system attachment point76may include a aperture, clasp, hook, or other coupling mechanism for attaching slidable partition coupling assembly30to the cabling system. As will be discussed in greater detail below, modular partition track system10may include a cabling system configured to slide slidable partition coupling assembly30along first track subsystem24.

Referring toFIG. 10, wheels66,68,70may be configured to slide or roll slidable partition coupling assembly30within a pair of parallel grooves or channels (e.g., grooves26,28) within modular base portion12. In this example, each groove (e.g., grooves26,28) may include a lip or edge configured to securely retain slidable partition coupling assembly30within the channel of first track subsystem24. In some embodiments, the grooves may secure the slidable partition coupling assembly30within first track subsystem24and may hold a partition post upright. In this manner, the combination of the pair of parallel grooves (e.g., grooves26,28) and slidable partition coupling assembly30may provide structural support for a partition post against horizontal forces or pressure (e.g., such a person pressing or falling against the partition). While a pair of grooves is shown, it will be appreciated that modular base portion12may include a single groove or channel, or any other number of grooves or channels, within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments and as discussed above, modular partition track system10may be configured to transmit power between modular base portions. Referring also toFIG. 11, modular base portion12may include additional channels (e.g., channels78,80) for one or more power distribution cables. In addition to power distribution cables, it will be appreciated that channels78,80may include cabling for data and/or for other purposes within the scope of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, the modular base portion may include a plurality of attachment points configured to removable couple the modular base portion to a plurality of corresponding ground-attachment points. Referring again toFIG. 11, modular base portion12may include a plurality of attachment points (e.g., attachment point82). In the example ofFIG. 11, attachment point82may be an elongated aperture extending through the bottom of modular base portion12. As shown inFIG. 11, attachment points (e.g., attachment point82) may extend along the length of modular base portion12. WhileFIG. 11shows regularly spaced attachment points extending along the entire length of modular base portion12, it will be appreciated that this is for example purposes only and that more or fewer attachment points may be provided within modular base portion12within the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, modular base portion12may be removably secured to the ground (or other surface) by placement of fasteners (e.g., screws) through attachment point82into a below ground attachment point (e.g., a stake or peg installed in the ground).

In some embodiments, a first slidable partition coupling assembly may be coupled to a cabling system running along at least a portion of the first track subsystem. Referring again toFIG. 10, a first slidable partition coupling assembly (e.g., slidable partition coupling assembly30) is coupled to a cabling system (e.g., cabling system84) running along at least a portion of first track subsystem24. First slidable partition coupling assembly30may generally include an “end” slidable partition coupling assembly of a plurality of slidable partition coupling assemblies (i.e., the first slidable partition coupling assembly configured to receive and hold an end of partition assembly40). Cabling system84may include a cable, chain, or other linkage configured to pull/slide the first slidable partition coupling assembly along the first track subsystem. In this example, cabling system84may be pulled by a user to slide the plurality of slidable partition coupling assemblies along the first track subsystem. In some embodiments, cabling system84may include a motor or other mechanism for pulling/sliding cabling in an automated and/or manual motorized manner. For example, cabling system84may include a physical switch and/or an interface (e.g., wired or wireless remote/application accessible on a computing device) configured to activate motorized sliding of the first slidable partition coupling assembly along the first track subsystem24.

The cabling system (e.g., cabling system84) may be configured to one or more of: slide the first slidable partition coupling assembly along the first track subsystem toward other slidable partition coupling assemblies of a plurality of slidable partition coupling assemblies; and slide the first slidable partition coupling assembly along the first track subsystem away from the other slidable partition coupling assemblies of the plurality of slidable partition coupling assemblies. For example and as discussed above, slidable partition coupling assemblies may be positioned along the length of first track subsystem24and may slide or move along first track subsystem24.

In some embodiments, sliding, via the cabling system, the first slidable partition coupling assembly toward the other slidable partition coupling assemblies of the plurality of slidable partition coupling assemblies may collapse the one or more collapsible partition panels of the collapsible partition assembly. For example and referring again toFIG. 12, suppose slidable partition coupling assembly30is an “end” slidable partition coupling assembly coupled to cabling system84. In this example, cabling system84may pull slidable partition coupling assembly30along first track subsystem24. Suppose that first track subsystem24is deployed around a pool and that the partition posts of a pool fence (e.g., a collapsible partition) are inserted into the slidable partition coupling assemblies. In this example, as cabling system84pulls first slidable partition coupling assembly30towards the resting position (e.g., when opening the pool fence), first slidable partition coupling assembly30may make contact with and push the next slidable partition coupling assembly along the first track subsystem. Contact will be made with the next slidable partition coupling assembly which is also pushed along first track subsystem24. This process may repeat until the there is no more room to move on the track and the pool is fully opened (i.e., the partition panels are collapsed as the adjacent slidable partition coupling assemblies are brought together).

In some embodiments, sliding, via the cabling system, the first slidable partition coupling assembly away from the other slidable partition coupling assemblies of the plurality of slidable partition coupling assemblies may expand the one or more collapsible partition panels of the collapsible partition assembly. In this example, cabling system84may pull slidable partition coupling assembly30along first track subsystem24away from the resting position (e.g., when closing the pool fence). First slidable partition coupling assembly30may pull on the other slidable partition coupling assemblies when the partition panels between each adjacent pair of slidable partition coupling assemblies becomes taught. This may continue as each section or panel of the collapsible partition pulls on the next partition panel until the fence is full deployed.

In addition to and/or instead of a cabling system, one or more of the slidable partition coupling assemblies (e.g., first slidable partition coupling assembly30) may be motorized to move or drive the slidable partition coupling assemblies along first track subsystem24. Additionally, a separate slidable portion may be positioned along first track subsystem24and configured to push and/or pull the one or more slidable partition coupling assemblies (e.g., first slidable partition coupling assembly30) along first track subsystem24. The separate slidable portion may be robotic and/or may a remote controlled vehicle deployed in or on first track subsystem24. The energized slidable portion may be removably coupled to either end of the slidable partition coupling assemblies to either push or pull the slidable partition coupling assemblies along first track subsystem24. The energized slidable portion may be controlled via a switch, interface, and/or software application accessible via a computing device (e.g., by wireless communication between modular partition track system10and a user's computing device.