A universal system for freestanding walls – with proof of stability

05/03/2017

On the occasion of EuroShop 2017, Filderstadt based system component manufacturers OCTANORM have presented a new universal system for supporting constructions that can be used for exhibitions, events and retail. Just like the already established Maxima system, the new OCTAuniversal system is based on an 80 mm square extrusion but comes with a newly developed connection technique.

Four bolts in each beam fit into four keyholes in an upright and reinforce the tension lock connection. "This kind of connection is far more stable than a mere tension lock connection through the additional firm engagement of bolts and keyholes. Thanks to the patented adaptor, however, uprights and beams can still be mounted as easily and quickly as with the traditional tension lock," explains Ekkehard Dreher, in charge of the development of OCTAuniversal. According to Andreas Dober, Head of Engineering and Design, the most significant advantage actually lies in the static proof provided by the new connection: "In future, all kinds of constructions can be calculated precisely. This does not only ensure the required static stability but also a high level of planning reliability for exhibitors and exhibition constructors, all the more as limit values and safety requirements of fairs have become ever more stringent over the last few years."

In view of the verifiably high stability of the new system, 12 freestanding wall kits in various widths and heights were put together for the official market launch. With a maximum height of up to 6 meters and a system depth of only 260 mm, the freestanding walls show a strikingly slim and aesthetic appearance – and even more so when they are placed at the edge of a booth. "The massive base plates necessary for ballasting disappear below the double floor," explains Andreas Dober. "To put it in a nutshell, the small depth of the freestanding wall makes the most of valuable stand space and literally increases the even more valuable effective area." The inherent static proof – that has also been verified by an officially recognized engineer – adds the most value to the 12 OCTAuniversal kits. This does not only grant maximum safety but also saves considerably on costs: up to 1,500 € for each single certificate, depending on project, design and trade show. Similarities to the Maxima product range are of course not coincidental. For one thing, the square extrusion akin to Maxima components offers maximum versatility within the system and, for another, ensures its full compatibility with Maxima 80. "Exhibition constructors who are often using the Maxima system can now combine their stock with a few OCTAuniversal uprights and gain a lot of functionality for a low investment," says Ekkehard Dreher.

The name of the particularly secure and stable system is taken from its universal characteristics: OCTAuniversal is extremely versatile and can be covered completely as desired. Walls can be equipped with fabrics, illuminated frames, LED panels and a wide range of other materials and surfaces – when used with the included distance pieces, not even tools are required. Thanks to its modular design, the system can easily be modified or extended, making it ideal for exhibitions, events and retail with its ever shorter rental times. OCTAuniversal will be available as of April 2017.

Press contact:
Andreas Dober, Tel. 0711 77003-382, a-dober@octanorm.de
Simon Niederer, Tel. 0711 77003-23, s-niederer@octanorm.de

Trademarks: OCTAuniversal, Maxima