Gallery Display System 400 is a unique system of individual composite display panels which can be raised on to their own integral castors and wheeled, guided by a lightweight aluminium non load-bearing purpose designed ceiling grid which is fixed to an existing ceiling or soffit. If the height of the gallery is excessive, a lightweight support system is installed to lower the guide track to a useable height.

Each gallery has different requirements and constraints and therefore, at the initial consultation stage Panelock will use its wealth of experience to ensure that the grid layout is well thought out and custom designed. Careful consideration is given to various factors such as existing building anomalies, heating, ventilation and air conditioning services, amount and type of surface display area required, and available panel storage should a completely clear gallery be required. We would also make the essential provisions for disabled access, emergency escape routes and clear lines of vision for security staff and surveillance cameras.

Whitby Museum, Yorkshire

The guide track layout is designed to give maximum flexibility in panel positioning and can support suspended ceilings and lighting, security and surveillance equipment. Unique multi-directional trolley units enable CCTV cameras to be moved around the guide track to ensure absolute security whatever the exhibition layout.The guide track and support system can be supplied either in its natural mill finish or painted to blend unobtrusively in with its background.

Additional track can be incorporated into the design to provide inconspicuous panel storage or the ability to conceal unsightly areas or windows when natural light is not required.

Rugby Art Gallery & Museum - Rugby - UK*

Panels consist of an aluminium frame usually faced with 15mm Medium Density Fibreboard and finished matt vinyl emulsion paint. Alternative face boards and finishes including Fire Rated or Zero Formaldehyde boards can replace the standard. Within the base of each panel is the unique Panelock castor wheel mechanism operated by a removable key. When the operating key is turned, the panel raises on to wheels and at the same time a retractable seal at the head of the panel closes in. The panel is automatically locked in its raised position and the operating key removed. The panel may then be wheeled along the floor. A spigot is constantly engaged within the guide track, ensuring the panel’s stability while in motion.

A purpose designed trolley is also available to further facilitate ease of movement. Once repositioned, the operating key is reinserted and the panel lowered to the floor, simultaneously expanding the top seal to thrust to the underside of the overhead guide track and locking the panel securely between floor and guide track. The panels can be locked in any postion through 360º and can either stand alone or be linked to form continuous display walls. Door units can be incorporated allowing the exhibition space to be sub-divided or separate rooms created. Some exhibitions will require that delicate or valuable artifacts be securely displayed. Panelock can incorporate showcases in their panels and security systems can be concealed within.

Galleries are required to be functional, welcoming and to attract a new and diverse audience by providing a fresh visitor experience at each visit. Gallery Display System 400 has been designed to enable galleries to achieve the maximum utilisation of space and to mount varied and stimulating exhibitions on a regularly changing basis. The System offers the total flexibility to either open up the whole gallery or to close off areas in order to form more intimate spaces.

*Artwork from Rugby Collection & Leicestershire County Council's Artworks Collection

Panelock Gallery Display System 400 is custom designed and manufactured.