Included In Prefabricated Building Panel (e.g., Floor, Ceiling, Wall) Patents (Class 439/215)
  • Patent number: 6267611
    Abstract: A modular communication system, particularly for interior space-dividing wall panels which are serially-connected together to define a plurality of adjacent workstations. The modular communication system is defined by a plurality of prefabricated modules, one of which is an elongate main distribution module mountable within a raceway which extends horizontally longitudinally of the panel. This elongate main distribution module, in one embodiment, has a length which approximately corresponds to the panel length, and has terminals or connectors at opposite ends so that a plurality of main distribution modules can be serially-connected to extend along a plurality of serially-connected panels. The main communication modules define a plurality of telecommunication links (i.e., paths), with each link preferably being defined by eight conductors (i.e., four pairs).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold R. Wilson, Ross S. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20010008814
    Abstract: The branching connector fixing structure (20) has a pair of band-shaped frames (12) that are disposed apart in the direction of thickness, a plurality of flat circuit bodies (22) that are disposed respectively in layers between the band-shaped frames (12), and the branching connectors (24) that are respectively disposed on the flat circuit bodies (22), for the purpose of disposing of the branching connectors (24) along the same surfaces that are parallel to the respective band-shaped frames (12), wherein the branching connectors (24) is supported via a pair of fixing members (40), (50), bridging between the band-shaped frames (12) and fastenable in the predetermined position in the direction where each of the fixing members (40), (50) are disposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 3, 2001
    Publication date: July 19, 2001
    Inventors: Masashi Tsukamoto, Masataka Nishijima, Mitsunobu Katoh
  • Patent number: 6186825
    Abstract: A mounting arrangement is disclosed in a power distribution system for electrification of modular wall panels or the like. A mounting bracket is adapted for location in a wire raceway of a modular wall panel. An electrical receptacle is mountable on the mounting bracket. Complementary interengaging guide ribs and grooves are provided between the bracket and the receptacle for guiding the receptacle into a proper mounted position on the bracket. Complementary interengaging latch arms and latch recesses are provided between the bracket and the receptacle for locking the receptacle on the bracket at its mounted position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventors: Steven B. Bogiel, Mark M. Data
  • Patent number: 6135796
    Abstract: A modular communication system, particularly for interior space-dividing wall panels which are serially-connected together to define a plurality of adjacent workstations. The modular communication system is defined by a plurality of prefabricated modules, one of which is an elongate main distribution module mountable within a raceway which extends horizontally longitudinally of the panel. This elongate main distribution module, in one embodiment, has a length which approximately corresponds to the panel length, and has terminals or connectors at opposite ends so that a plurality of main distribution modules can be serially-connected to extend along a plurality of serially-connected panels. The main communication modules define a plurality of telecommunication links (i.e., paths), with each link preferably being defined by eight conductors (i.e., four pairs).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold R. Wilson, Ross S. Johnson
  • Patent number: 6133845
    Abstract: A utility distribution system is provided for modular furniture of the type comprising individual furniture units which are juxtaposed to form one or more workstations. A signal conductor is positioned in each furniture unit, and extends generally between opposite sides thereof. Quick-disconnect connectors are provided at the opposite ends of each of the signal conductors, and mate with like quick-disconnect connectors in adjacent furniture units to create a communications network through the workstations. Each furniture unit has a signaler physically associated therewith, which is connected with an associated signal conductor at a coupler. A network controller is operably connected to the network to evaluate the network and/or the associated furniture units. The furniture units may be equipped with one or more utility ports, which are connected with the coupler, and service utility appliances, such as personal computers, telephones, facsimile machines, switches, power outlets, data receptacles, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: John Shackelford Toms, Steven M. Brown, William L. Miller, George V. Weller, Scott H. Russell, Joseph R. Branc, David C. Sweeton, Matthew M. Mikolajczak
  • Patent number: 6123562
    Abstract: A modular electrical system for mounting on furniture components such as wall panels. The system includes modules which each include at least one power block provides increased electrical circuit capacity, which capacity in the preferred embodiment is at least six electrical circuits. The power block provides different groupings of circuits which are externally accessible, such as for connection to removable receptacle units, on opposite sides thereof. Flexible electrical connectors are provided for connection to and transmitting electrical power between power blocks of adjacent panels. Each connector transmits only one grouping of electrical circuits therethrough, whereby two such connectors are normally utilized for connection between adjacent power blocks of adjacent panels to transmit all electrical circuits therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. King, David E. Emery, Richard D. Benscoter
  • Patent number: 6111195
    Abstract: A communication cable management and distribution system for use in a modular partitioned workspace environment including a plurality of partition panels defining the workspaces and a consolidation point cabinet mounted on and supported by the partition structure. The cabinet is generally rectangular and includes an interior defined by a top, a bottom, a back, a pair of sides and a front. The cabinet is mounted on the partition structure by mounting brackets which are configured so that the cabinet can only be unmounted from the partition structure by gaining access to the cabinet interior. A back wall in the cabinet interior includes a plurality of apertures which allows cable management elements to be mounted by screws at a plurality of interchangeable locations. One such cable management element is a consolidation point bracket that is pivotable between a first position for storage and a second position offering improved access to the consolidation point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: R. Scott Hand, Robert H. Greenhoe, Todd C. Fitzpatrick, James L. Kraft, Jared Alden Judson, Karl J. Mead, Kevin M. Stanley
  • Patent number: 6101773
    Abstract: A wire management system for use with furniture panels and being especially useful for the management of voice and data wiring includes a support plate and a plurality of vertically arranged rows of slots for receiving mounting blocks for patch panel brackets and the like. The slots may be provided in the plate itself or in a series of channel members attached to the plate. The blocks can be rotated 90 degrees to facilitate the connection of wiring to wiring connection devices when the blocks are in a first position and to a second position in which the wires and associated equipment occupy a minimum amount of space. The cover for the wire management system is preferably hinged at the top or side. A lock may be provided therefore for security, and a prop rod may be provided to hold the cover in an open position. In a most preferred embodiment, the plate may be adjusted using telescoping components to accommodate different size openings in the furniture module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Theodore Q. Chau, Keith A. Haagsma, R. Scott Hand, Kevin M. Stanley
  • Patent number: 6036517
    Abstract: A mounting system for attaching a junction block to a surface includes a mounting block having a base for connection to one of the sides of a junction block and a mounting portion attached to and extending away from the base for installing the mounting block on the surface. The junction block sides are configured to receive modular electrical receptacles. The mounting system is attached to the side of the junction block that faces the surface. The mounting portion of the mounting block comprises a wall that is integrally formed with the base. The wall includes one or more apertures sized to receive fasteners for mounting the block to the surface. In an alternative embodiment, a mounting bracket is provided for attachment between the surface and the mounting portion of the mounting block. The mounting bracket includes a bracket wall with first and second spaced-apart support brackets and a retaining tab extending from the wall. The retaining tab is positioned between the first and second support brackets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Patent number: 6036516
    Abstract: An electrical interconnection assembly for use in a spce-divider wall system including a plurality of modular upright wall panels having vertically extending opposite end edges and a raceway area extending between the opposite edges for supporting electrical conductors and junction blocks, the assembly adapted to be mounted in the raceway and comprising:at least one junction block for receiving electrical receptacles;a plurality of first receptacle connectors formed integral to the junction block for interchangeably receiving electrical outlet receptacles and at least one power cable;the at least one power cable attaching between the junction block and a power source for supplying power to the junction block;the junction block being a two-sided junction block with at least two of the first receptacle connectors being oppositely directed, the junction block further comprising at least one inside second receptacle connector on at least one side of the junction block to accommodate electrical outlet receptacles;
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Patent number: 6027352
    Abstract: An electrical interconnection assembly (19) is disclosed for use in a wall system having a four-panel configuration (10). Each of the panels includes a raceway with an interconnection assembly (19) disposed therein. Each interconnection assembly (19) includes a junction block (22) capable of receiving an electrical receptacle block (100). Female connector block pairs (34, 34A) associated with an end of the junction block (22) are each provided with a pair of side flanges (90) for engagement with flanges (125) of a pivotable male connector (120). A power cable assembly (20) includes a conduit (114) attached to the pivotable male connector (120). The conduit (114) is pivotable relative to the pivotable male connector (120) through a pivot assembly (160, 161).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2000
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Patent number: 5964610
    Abstract: A power supply assembly for supplying power to a modular wall panel includes a base module having a set of first mating ports and a plurality of first electrical conductors. Each first electrical conductor is electrically connected to a respective first mating port. The power supply assembly also includes a reversible coupler having a plurality of second electrical conductors therein. Each second electrical conductor is electrically connected to a respective second mating port and to a respective third mating port of the reversible coupler. The reversible coupler is selectively attached to the base module in one of two different orientations. Each second mating port is electrically connected to a respective first mating port in a first of the two orientations. Each third mating port is electrically connected to a respective first mating port in a second of the two orientations. Each second electrical conductor is electrically connected to a same first mating port in each of the two orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Dekko Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip A. McCoy
  • Patent number: 5964609
    Abstract: A modular communication system, particularly for interior space-dividing wall panels which are serially-connected together to define a plurality of adjacent workstations. The modular communication system is defined by a plurality of prefabricated modules, one of which is an elongate main distribution module mountable within a raceway which extends horizontally longitudinally of the panel. This elongate main distribution module, in one embodiment, has a length which approximately corresponds to the panel length, and has terminals or connectors at opposite ends so that a plurality of main distribution modules can be serially-connected to extend along a plurality of serially-connected panels. The main communication modules define a plurality of telecommunication links (i.e., paths), with each link preferably being defined by eight conductors (i.e., four pairs).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold R. Wilson, Ross S. Johnson
  • Patent number: 5957714
    Abstract: A modular communication system, particularly for interior space-dividing wall panels which are serially connected together to define a plurality of adjacent workstations. The modular communication system is defined by a plurality of prefabricated modules, one of which is an elongate main distribution module mountable within a raceway which extends horizontally longitudinally of the panel. This elongate main distribution module, in one embodiment, has a length which approximately corresponds to the panel length, and has terminals or connectors at opposite ends so that a plurality of main distribution modules can be serially connected to extend along a plurality of serially-connected panels. The main communication modules define a plurality of telecommunication links (i.e., paths), with each link preferably being defined by eight conductors (i.e., four pairs).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Haworth Inc.
    Inventors: Ross Johnson, Harold R. Wilson
  • Patent number: 5941720
    Abstract: An interconnection assembly for use in a space-divider wall system includes first and second junction blocks for receiving electrical receptacles. A first connector is associated with the first junction block and a second connector is associated with the second junction block for mechanically securing the junction blocks together in a vertically stacked relationship. The first connector is located on a top portion of the first junction block and the second connector is located on a bottom portion of the second junction block for mating with the first connector to thereby mechanically secure the junction blocks together. Further junction blocks can also be connected to the first set of junction blocks in a side-by-side and stacked relationship. Each of the junction blocks includes electrical terminals and a connector block is attached to the electrical terminals for supplying power to the stacked junction blocks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Patent number: 5938462
    Abstract: A modular communication system, particularly for interior space-dividing wall panels which are serially-connected together to define a plurality of adjacent workstations. The modular communication system is defined by a plurality of prefabricated modules, one of which is an elongate main distribution module mountable within a raceway which extends horizontally longitudinally of the panel. This elongate main distribution module, in one embodiment, has a length which approximately corresponds to the panel length, and has terminals or connectors at opposite ends so that a plurality of main distribution modules can be serially-connected to extend along a plurality of serially-connected panels. The main communication modules define a plurality of telecommunication links (i.e., paths), with each link preferably being defined by eight conductors (i.e., four pairs).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold R. Wilson, Ross Johnson
  • Patent number: 5921795
    Abstract: A freestanding power and/or communication pedestal for selective placement at locations near workstations. The pedestal includes two, spaced apart columns projecting upwardly from a base member toward a cross member and which thereby define an opening therebetween. Selected power and communication modules are seatable within the opening at one or more mounting sites defined along the axial length of the columns, which modules have receptacles for receiving connector plugs of workstation equipment. One column accommodates a communication cable therein, and the other column receives a power cable therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Weener, Douglas R. Himebaugh
  • Patent number: 5915984
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a modular electrical outlet including a housing; a pair of plug-in connectors carried by and disposed at opposing ends of the housing; and a conductor disposed within the housing. Each of the connectors includes a plurality of terminal receiving openings. The conductor includes a pair of blade receiving sockets, with a longitudinal axis extending between the blade receiving sockets. The conductor includes a pair of terminals at opposing ends thereof, with each terminal being offset from the longitudinal axis. The conductor may be selectively positioned in the housing at one of two reversible positions. To wit, the conductor may be selectively disposed within the housing in a first position such that each terminal is received within an associated terminal receiving opening of a respective connector, and a second position such that each terminal is received within an associated terminal receiving opening of the other respective connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Dekko Engineering, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian K. Rupert, Phillip A. McCoy
  • Patent number: 5831211
    Abstract: A system is provided for storing, distributing, and managing variable-type communication cables in open office environment. The system of the present invention uses a centrally located multi-user communication cable interface module, a series of cable channels with protective caps adapted to be mounted on most partition panel upper surfaces, a plurality of jumper cables routed horizontally from said communication cable interface module along said cable channels, and a plurality of routing conduits adjacent the partition panel for vertically directing the jumper cables from the cable channels to the communication cable receiving device. The present invention eliminates inconvenience and extended downtime associated with office relocations by maintaining a central connection and easily accessible, removable, and reconnectable jumper cables while providing virtually invisible cable management and distribution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Assignee: Clifford W. Gartung
    Inventors: Clifford W. Gartung, Brad G. Greer
  • Patent number: 5816836
    Abstract: A telecommunications and data connector with a connector first side assembly having a first side base portion formed of plastic and defining a plurality of grooves. The connector first side assembly also includes a first side plurality of contact elements. Each of the contacts extend from a wire end toward an assembly connection end. Each of the first side contact elements is movable between a contact position, and a non-contact position. A connector second side assembly is provided which is substantially identical to the connector first side assembly. The connector first side assembly and the connector second side assembly are connectable in a mated position wherein individual contact areas of the first side plurality of contacts make electrical contact with the corresponding individual contact areas of the second plurality of electrical contacts. The contact assemblies each include a hermaphroditic connector for coupling the assemblies together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Assignee: Krone AG
    Inventors: Richard Snow, Tim Pickles
  • Patent number: 5784841
    Abstract: A structural member for a building includes a one-piece elongated support member having a pair of legs defining a trough therebetween and a projection extending into the trough from each of the legs. A one-piece elongated electrical raceway can be secured in the support member. The raceway includes a tubular housing having a pair of opposed side walls and open a pair of opposed end walls to define a channel extending between opposed ends of the housing such that an associated electrical conductor can extend through the housing. A first wing projects away from a first side wall of the tubular housing, and a second wing projects away from a second side wall of the tubular housing. The first and second wings flex to snap into a cooperating relationship with the projections of the support member to selectively secure the tubular housing in the support member trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: Patio Enclosures, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffrey A. Nowell
  • Patent number: 5755583
    Abstract: A modular electrical power block assembly has sixteen separate electrical conductors divided equally into two separate halves of the total assembly. The two half sections are electrically isolated from each other in a single housing. Each half of the assembly contains three live electrical conductors, three neutral electrical conductors, and two ground electrical conductors for forming three different electrical circuits. The input end of each half section of the power block is separately electrically coupled to a different electrical power feed for energizing the live electrical conductors in each half section of the power block to provide a total of six separate electrical circuits for the entire power block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: David G. McCarthy
  • Patent number: 5728970
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a modular electrical system attachable to a modular office partition, including an electrical distribution assembly with at least two projections extending from one side thereof. At least two projection receiving members are associated with the partition, and engageable with a respective projection. At least one resilient retainer device is biased to a retaining position for securably and releasably maintaining at least one of the projections in engagement with a respective receiving member. The resilient retainer device is also movable to a disengaging position allowing the at least one projection to be disengaged from the respective receiving member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 17, 1998
    Assignee: Pent Assemblies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald E. Karst, Shawn J. Kondas
  • Patent number: 5679023
    Abstract: A dual-port electrical cable female connector head primarily useful for branch circuit extension of and for fixture tapping into a relocatable wiring system, the female connector head of the invention is located at one end of a length of electrical cable which carries one or more circuits and into which lighting fixtures or other electrical loads are to be tapped at predetermined locations of the wiring system by connection to tapping ports formed in respective female connector heads. A male connector head joined to the length of cable at the other end thereof connects to a branch circuit port formed in a female connector head of an adjacent length of cable in the wiring system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 21, 1997
    Assignee: NSI Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Ormand Gilbert Anderson, Jr., William Wade Marder
  • Patent number: 5675194
    Abstract: A modular power distribution system is ideally suited for use in modular buildings of the type in which prefabricated building modules are constructed at a manufacturing factory and shipped to a remote building site where the modules are interconnected to form the complete structure. The modular power distribution system includes a primary power distribution panel positioned in one of the building modules and is adapted to distribute power from the utility service to the building modules. Modular power distribution units positioned in each of the building modules are adapted to distribute power within a respective building module. The primary power distribution panel has a plurality of main circuit breakers, each of which is electrically connected between the utility service and one of the modular power distribution units for limiting the maximum current through a respective modular power distribution unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 7, 1997
    Assignee: Walker Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Charles N. Domigan
  • Patent number: 5670743
    Abstract: A wiring assembly for mounting on an exposed surface of a wall or wall panel to supply electrical power to the wall or wall panel. The wiring assembly includes a plurality of conductive bus bars and an insulating support having a base and a plurality of generally parallel dividers extending upwardly from the base to define a plurality of slots therebetween. Each slot is configured to receive a conductive bus bar therein. The support is coupled to said exposed surface. The assembly also includes at least one cover and at least one outlet coupled to the support. The at least one cover and the at least one outlet are situated over the plurality of dividers to shield the plurality of conductive bus bars situated in the plurality of slots. The at least one cover and the at least one outlet are adjacent one another on the support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Assignee: Group Dekko International
    Inventors: Richard Welch, Rick E. Zemen, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5607317
    Abstract: A modular electrical system for mounting on furniture components such as wall panels. The system includes modules which each include at least one power block provides increased electrical circuit capacity, which capacity in the preferred embodiment is at least six electrical circuits. The power block provides different groupings of circuits which are externally accessible, such as for connection to removable receptacle units, on opposite sides thereof. Flexible electrical connectors are provided for connection to and transmitting electrical power between power blocks of adjacent panels. Each connector transmits only one grouping of electrical circuits therethrough, whereby two such connectors are normally utilized for connection between adjacent power blocks of adjacent panels to transmit all electrical circuits therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 4, 1997
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. King, David E. Emery, Richard D. Benscoter
  • Patent number: 5595495
    Abstract: A wall panel electrical system provided with a low-voltage switching system so that remote panel-mounted receptacle units can be switched on or off from a single remote manual switch. The manual switch is mounted on one of the panels at a convenient location, such as adjacent a door. This switch controls a power supply unit mounted on the panel, such as at the base or at worksurface height. This power supply unit is electrically coupled to a power block which comprises part of the electrical system. The power supply unit mounts interiorly thereof both a low-voltage direct current power supply in the form of a transformer and rectifying circuit, as well as an internal switching arrangement which is powered by a low-voltage circuit to control an electrical outlet. The remote switch controls and energizes the switching arrangement only when the remote switch is "on" to couple an outlet of the power supply unit to the input contacts from the power block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Ross S. Johnson, Steven J. King
  • Patent number: 5584714
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a modular electrical receptacle including a housing and a faceplate. The faceplate is integral with or attached to the housing, and has at least two parallel blade openings and at least two T-slot blade openings. The parallel blade openings are disposed along a common longitudinal axis, and each T-slot blade opening is associated with a respective parallel blade opening. At least one plug-in electrical connector is attached to the housing and/or the faceplate. A conductor member defines at least two T-slot blade sockets, with each T-slot blade socket associated with a respective one of the T-slot blade openings. The conductor member interconnects at least one connector with each T-slot blade socket. The conductor member can be of monolithic or two-piece construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 17, 1996
    Assignee: Pent Assemblies, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald E. Karst, Shawn J. Kondas
  • Patent number: 5549488
    Abstract: A re-wired electrical assembly with multiple keying arrangement has channel-shaped raceways which receive plug receptacles. Electrical contacts are disposed in each of the plug receptacles and are selectively oriented in one of a plurality of predetermined positions. Jumper cable assemblies including two plugs electrically coupled by an intermediate cable are used to join a pair of channels having plug receptacles therein. Terminals are disposed in each of the plugs and are selectively oriented so as to mate with corresponding contacts in the plug receptacles. The keying arrangement prevents improper connection between the plugs and plug receptacles. Specifically, the keying arrangement includes guide members molded on the interior surface of bores surrounding each contact in the plug receptacles. Slotted sleeves enclose the terminals, and a slot mates with at least one of the guide members in the plug receptacle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 27, 1996
    Assignee: Pent Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Curtis G. Berndt, Daniel R. Van Dyk, David A. Van Dyk, Steven C. Deer, Royal A. Kent
  • Patent number: 5503565
    Abstract: A receptacle assembly for multi-wire, multi-circuit power distribution systems for modular wall panels has a body, at least one outlet formed in the body, at least one input plug formed in the body, the input plug have a plurality of openings therein, and three conductors, one line conductor, one neutral conductor, and one ground conductor. The conductors extend from the outlet to the input plug. At least one of the three conductors terminates in a plurality of terminals positioned adjacent a respective plurality of input plug openings. A circuit selector clip engages one of these terminals so that the conductor is connected to one of a plurality of input circuits of the power distribution system. A first end of the clip has a female terminal that matingly engages one of a plurality of male terminals formed on a conductor that allows selective connection. Dimples may be formed on the first end to assure secure engagement with the male terminals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Phillip A. McCoy
  • Patent number: 5412529
    Abstract: A modular wall panel assembly having a concealed prewired electrical system associated therewith comprising a multiwire powerway defining at least one, and preferably multiple power circuits, with the powerway coupled to at least one power protector disposed in interiorly in the wall panel member and providing power protection to a power circuit thereof, wherein the power protector comprises power surge protector (USP) and/or uninterruptable power supply (UPS). A multiwire multicircuit powerway is described comprising at least two power circuits having associated therewith power circuit receptacle terminals constructed so as to allow a compatible receptacle element to be selectively positioned on the powerway in power delivery relationship with any selected one of the multiple power circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Assignee: Network Power Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Winston W. Eaton, Thomas H. Patchel, James T. Asaki, Donald L. Bentley
  • Patent number: 5349135
    Abstract: An apparatus to fasten panel electrical distribution units to divider panels. Mounting tabs are formed from a panel bracket. Mounting ears with holes to receive the mounting tabs and a slidable locking member with openings to receive the mounting tabs are carried on the panel distribution unit. The mounting tabs are inserted through the holes and openings, and the lock member is then moved to a locked position. The slidable lock member contains a spring member which provides positive friction force to keep the lock member in its locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Rosemount Office Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Lloyd C. Mollenkopf, Russsell J. Rein
  • Patent number: 5336849
    Abstract: A raceway includes a base and removable cover defining internal channels; discrete conductive shields are mounted in each channel in overlying relation to power and communications conductors therein; and a latching member is removably mounted between the cover and base continuously along coextending lengths of the latching member and the cover, the latching member being in interfering relation to cover movements required for removal of the cover from the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventor: Charles A. Whitney
  • Patent number: 5336097
    Abstract: An electrical power distribution system is provided with an elongate track and a plurality of power tap assemblies that are engageable with the track. The power tap assemblies may be moved to any desired location along the track. Power may be fed into the track through one of the assemblies and taken out of the track through another of the assemblies. Receptacles may be mounted to one or more of the power tap assemblies. A latch system can hold the power tap assemblies in (1) a fully inserted, electrically engaging orientation and (2) an electrically disconnected orientation wherein the components are still supported on the track. The components employ spring terminals which establish electrical contact through a surface-to-surface butt engagement with a conducting member. Mechanical key systems are provided for preventing improper mounting of the components on the track and for preventing the connection of more than one power in-feed to the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 9, 1994
    Assignee: RHC/Spacemaster Corporation
    Inventors: Lawrence J. Williamson, Jr., Donald C. Smith, Charles R. Snyder
  • Patent number: 5322444
    Abstract: The known arrangements of low-voltage energy distribution include connecting elements for busbar trunking systems with which, while a change of direction is possible, the currents are limited. The new device is intended to make it possible to easily change directions, even with high currents. To achieve this object, the invention teaches that the busbars at the junction site are placed in such a way around a common tensioning element that they can be rotated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 21, 1994
    Assignee: Klockner-Moeller GmbH
    Inventors: Karsten Audehm, Eckhard Ammann
  • Patent number: 5318454
    Abstract: A power distribution system includes powerways and power outlets for positioning in a plurality of furniture units. The powerways may include a plurality of power blocks each having at least three hermaphrodite ports. The power blocks of each powerway are interconnected by flexible conductors. Outlet blocks for the system include a flexible conductor and a connector for connection to the port. The hermaphrodite ports are for connection with other power blocks, outlet blocks, and a power tap-in.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 7, 1994
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Steven C. Deer, Scott H. Russell
  • Patent number: 5299947
    Abstract: A Utility Raceway for modular walls, fixed walls, and modular fixed or moveable partitions. The Utility Raceway is comprised of multiple compartments where electrical, data, and communication devices and device mounting brackets can be mounted on both sides of the raceway. The configuration of the Utility Raceway is I beam. Compartments can be added or deleted. Holecuts can be provided in the center structure of the I beam so that access can be made from one compartment to another. This will increase the capacity of said Utility Raceway making it easier for fiber optic cable to be used because of crucial bending requirements of said fiber optic cable. Said Utility Raceway can use existing manufacture's electrical, data and communication device mounting brackets and device plates. Said Utility Raceway can be metallic or non-metallic. It can use metallic or non-metallic electrical, data and communication device plates and mounting brackets or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 5, 1994
    Assignee: Rachael Barnard
    Inventor: Rachael Barnard
  • Patent number: 5277609
    Abstract: A power distribution system for office furniture includes a powerway having a power block with power block conductors therein. A intermediate connector block is supported on the power block and includes recesses for receiving outlet blocks having power outlets therein. The intermediate connector block may include a generally C-shaped housing which is assembled into the utility raceway between the top of the power block and the top of the utility raceway. In one embodiment powerway, cables includes woven sheaths. The woven sheaths are attached to a connector using a fastener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventor: Charles C. Ondrejka
  • Patent number: 5252086
    Abstract: A power distribution system for office furniture includes a powerway having a power block with power block conductors therein. A outlet block is supported on the powerway and includes outlets for the office furniture. The outlets are connected to different conductors in the powerway by a jumper. The powerway may include at least three first connectors on one end and at least one second connector on the other end. The first and second connectors interconnect thereby facilitating connection with other identical powerways. According to one aspect, one component includes a projection and another component includes a recess which facilitate connection of these components using a substantially flat implement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Scott H. Russell, Craig M. Anderson, Steven C. Deer, Mark T. Slager, David A. VanDyke, Charles C. Ondrejka, Jerry P. White
  • Patent number: 5244401
    Abstract: A multi-tiered electrical system is provided for furniture arrangements and the like of the type having a plurality of individual furniture units interconnected side-by-side. A branch raceway extends along each furniture unit, and houses therein an associated branch powerway, which is connected with adjacent branch powerways to create a branch circuit. Power taps are connected to the branch circuit to provide conventional low current power to electrical appliances. A feeder raceway extends adjacent each branch raceway, and houses therein a feeder harness that is connected by a power-in connector to a source of high current electrical power. A power jumper interconnects the feeder harness with one of the branch powerways, such that multiple branch circuits can be powered by a single power-in connector through the feeder harness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Scott H. Russell, George V. Weller
  • Patent number: 5236370
    Abstract: An electrical system for an interior space-dividing system which, in a preferred embodiment, constitutes an eight-wire, three-circuit system. The electrical system is prefabricated and includes elongate harnesses mounted within channels which extend interiorly or portable space-dividing members. Adjacent harnesses are electrically joined by flexible electrical jumpers which create pluglike connections with power blocks provided on the ends of adjacent harnesses. Receptacle units are removably connectable to at least one side of each power block, and have circuit-selecting capability to facilitate access to all three circuits from adjacent work areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1993
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven J. King, David E. Emery
  • Patent number: 5214889
    Abstract: There is disclosed an electrified wall panel system having a power distribution server locatable within a wall panel unit. The power distribution server has four receptacle module ports oriented in an H-shaped configuration in which a first receptacle port on a first side of the wall panel unit opens toward a first end of the wall panel unit, a second receptacle port on the first side of the wall panel unit opens toward a second end of the wall panel unit, a third receptacle port on a second side of the wall panel unit opens toward the first end of the wall panel unit, and fourth receptacle port on the second side of the wall panel unit opens toward the second end of the wall panel unit. There is also disclosed an electrified wall panel system with wall panel connector interchangeably usable with the interconnection of two, three, and four wall panel units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1993
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: James H. Nienhuis, Jeffrey L. Clark, Michael L. De Pree, Robert L. Beck
  • Patent number: 5203712
    Abstract: A power distribution system (2) for a raceway (6) of a wall panel comprises an outlet (8), a cable assembly (10), a junction box (12), a side-mount wiring device (14), and an end-mount wiring device (16) for connection to the junction box (12) as a self contained wiring branch adding an additional outlet receptacle (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: AMP Incorporated
    Inventors: Jerry B. Kilpatrick, Mitchell E. Miller, Victor E. Slack
  • Patent number: 5203713
    Abstract: A power distribution system includes a power outlet for connection to different power supply circuits in a power block when assembled thereto. The system includes a power block having arrays of openings on the front and back faces which are vertically staggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: AMP Incorporated
    Inventors: Jay L. French, John L. Himes, Jr., James S. Hower, Douglas J. Pirc, Ronald M. Weber, James H. Wise
  • Patent number: 5203711
    Abstract: A power distribution system is disclosed for electrification of modular wall panels. The distribution system includes a track along a wall panel, a plurality of electrical power lines running along the track and defining a plurality of power distribution circuits, and a plug-receiving receptacle mounted adjacent the power lines for interconnection therewith. The invention contemplates receptacle contacts mounted on the receptacle, a plurality of circuit contacts interconnected with the power lines, and a plurality of interchangeable circuit control modules for selectively interchangeably interconnecting the plug-receiving receptacle with different power distribution circuits. The interchangeable circuit control modules include a plurality of control contacts of different arrays engageable between the receptacle contacts and different ones of the circuit contacts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 20, 1993
    Assignee: Molex Incorporated
    Inventor: Steven B. Bogiel
  • Patent number: 5186640
    Abstract: A wiring harness assembly includes a conductor carrying channel having a first end and a second end. A first socket is electrically coupled to the first end of the conductor carrying channel. A connector assembly is coupled to the second end of the conductor carrying channel. The connector assembly includes a body portion, a second socket coupled to the body portion and extending a first predetermined distance longitudinally outwardly from the body portion, and a third socket coupled to the body portion and extending a second predetermined distance, longer than the first predetermined distance, longitudinally outwardly from the body portion. The second and third sockets are configured to mate with a first socket coupled to a separate wiring harness assembly adjacent the second end of the conductor carrying channel to couple the two adjacent wiring harnesses electrically. The separate wiring harness assembly may be located in an adjacent wall panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1993
    Assignee: Group Dekko International
    Inventor: Phillip A. McCoy
  • Patent number: 5178555
    Abstract: A kit (2) adapting a junction box (4) for installation along a raceway comprises, a mounting bracket (10) having a first adjustable mounting mechanism for locating the mounting bracket (10) along the raceway, providing an initial adjustment, and a second adjustable mounting mechanism for securing a junction box (4) to the mounting bracket (10), and for adjustably locating the junction box (4) along the mounting bracket (10), providing a second and final adjustment to accurately locate the junction box (4) between two premeasured lengths of cable (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 12, 1993
    Assignee: AMP Incorporated
    Inventors: Jerry B. Kilpatrick, Victor E. Slack
  • Patent number: 5171159
    Abstract: An electrical junction assembly for use in the wall panels of a space-divider wall system includes a junction block having several receptacle connectors to provide a plurality of electrical outlets on both sides of a wall panel. The junction block is connected by means of conduits extending from both ends of the junction block to oppositely directed connector blocks for connection to adjoining panels. This assembly of junction block and connector blocks allows electrical power to be supplied to one end of the panel and conducted to and through the junction block to other panels. The receptacle connectors on the junction block each have one type of terminal configuration, e.g., a female electrical terminal configuration and one of the connector blocks is provided with the identical terminal configuration. The other connector block is provided with a matching terminal configuration, e.g., a male electrical terminal configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Inventor: Norman R. Byrne
  • Patent number: RE34977
    Abstract: A prewired electrical distribution member of the type utilized along movable partitions or similar modular furniture near the bottom edges thereof for distributing electrical energy and having like connectors at opposite ends thereof for connection to like member of an adjacent member is disclosed. Each member includes an elongated rigid central portion having a connector for receiving at least one electrical outlet centrally located therealong and flexible end portions permanently attached thereto. The flexible end portions enclose a plurality of conductors arranged in generally single file vertical alignment and have the connectors permanently fixed to their respective free ends. The connectors have both end and side terminal openings and are uniquely adapted to engage one another in any of an end to end, side to side, or end to side manner for effecting electrically insulating housing partially open at one end connections at corners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 20, 1995
    Assignee: Pent Assemblies, Inc.
    Inventor: Phillip A. McCoy