Partition Type (e.g., Raceway Arrangement) Patents (Class 52/220.7)
-
Patent number: 7453047Abstract: A cable duct (1) is provided for wall mounting a cable. The duct includes a cable acceptance region (2) and a lower terminating section (3) for arrangement on the floor and for covering the edges of floor coverings. The cable acceptance region (2) has a cable acceptance housing (4) attached to the wall in the mounted state, and a removable cover (5). The removal of the cover provides access to the interior (6) of the cable acceptance housing (4). The lower terminating section (3) is permanently connected to the cable acceptance housing (4) so that the lower terminating section (3), even with the cover (5) removed in the mounted state of the cable duct, (1) remains in a fixed arrangement to the floor. To facilitate the mounting of the cable duct, a clip (27) is provided for wall mounting. The clip (27) on its upper end has a section (30) bent away from the wall that is received in a corresponding leg receiver (31) located on the back of the cable acceptance housing (4).Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2006Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Assignee: Proverum AGInventor: Moritz Muehlebach
-
Patent number: 7448168Abstract: A knock-down portable partition system has cover panels supported on a post and beam framework designed for quick and easy on-site manual assembly. The framework includes at least two vertical posts and at least two structural beams rigidly, yet detachably interconnecting the vertical posts. Connectors secure the beams to the posts, such that the partition system can be assembled and disassembled manually. The partition system may include utility troughs shaped to retain wires, cabling, etc. therein to provide power and/or communication to the system. The utility troughs have opposite ends shaped to be detachably mounted to the posts.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2007Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: Steelcase Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael R. Shields, Brian J. Kane, Robin Christopher, Dennis J. Boyle, Charles A. Seiber, Peter N. Skillman, Joseph Chang, Richard S. Hand
-
Publication number: 20080263977Abstract: A quick-connect system for connecting two or more sections of wireway in generally longitudinal alignment along an X-axis. The system involves the a series of screws in the bottom and side walls of a generally U-shaped connector receivable in corresponding slots in the bottom and side walls of the two wireway sections. In one embodiment, the bottom wall slots are closed-ended slots and the side wall slots are open-end slots extending in from respective end edges of the wireway sections. The side walls slots are configured such that they have longitudinal centerlines having X-axis and Y-axis components.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2007Publication date: October 30, 2008Applicant: COOPER TECHNOLOGIES COMPANYInventor: Duan E. Packard
-
Publication number: 20080263976Abstract: A section of wireway having an elongate channel-shaped body and cover for the body. The cover has a releasable hinge connection with the body for swinging between open and closed positions. In one embodiment, the hinge connection comprising at least two T-shaped slots in a side wall of the body at locations spaced along the length of the body and at least two T-shaped hinge members on the cover receivable in said slots for hinging the cover to the body.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 27, 2007Publication date: October 30, 2008Applicant: COOPER TECHNOLOGIES COMPANYInventors: Gary W. Howell, Duan E. Packard
-
Patent number: 7427050Abstract: A multi-part mounting assembly for securing a plurality of individual pathway conduits relative to one another extending through a wall panel between adjacently positioned wall studs including two support members extending parallel to one another and defining therebetween a pathway conduit zone for receiving the individual conduits along with end members for providing sealing at the outermost edges and one or more partitioning means securable at a plurality of discrete positions within slots defined in the support members and being securable with respect to the support members and including set screws for safely holding pathway conduits in position extending therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2006Date of Patent: September 23, 2008Assignee: Specified Technologies Inc.Inventors: James P. Stahl, Sr., James P. Stahl, Jr., Julio Lopes, Leonid Kreyman
-
Publication number: 20080209827Abstract: A temporary movable/removable compression partition wall system for partitioning a room includes a wall component and spaced-apart pressure feet at the top of the wall for pressing against a track positioned between the top of the wall and the ceiling and additional spaced-apart pressure feet at the bottom of the wall for pressing against a track positioned between the bottom of the wall and the floor. This wall is temporarily, securely and rigidly positionable at a selected location in a room and subsequently removable with substantially no damage to the ceiling, floor or walls.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 16, 2008Publication date: September 4, 2008Inventor: Scott T. Webb
-
Patent number: 7408118Abstract: A trunking section (50) is described and has a body (51) with sides (52a, 52b and 52c) which form a channel (54). Trunking section (50) also has an end portion (62) inserted into first end (56) such that it engages the internal surfaces of sides (52a, 52b and 52c) and is welded thereto. End portion (62) is provided with a first aperture (64) which is adapted to receive a bush connector (66) and has four curved edges (70) and four straight edges (72) therebetween. The bush connector (66) has a male part (74) and a female part (76). Male part (74) has a tubular body (78) which has an aperture (80), it has external first threaded surfaces (82) and rotation prevention means, in the form of flat portions (84). Bush connector (66) also has a female part (76) with an internal second thread (88) which engages first threaded portions (82) of male part (74).Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2004Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Inventor: Richard J. Thompson
-
Patent number: 7408114Abstract: The present invention is directed to a raceway system including a base, at least two covers and a faceplate. The base includes sidewalls having a top wall with a flange member. The covers include a top portion having two ends with a flange member at each end. The flange members of the covers are in mating engagement with the flange members of the base when the cover is coupled to the base. The cover is flush with the base when it is coupled to the base. The faceplate is installed on the raceway so that it overlaps a portion of each cover and extends over and is flush with a portion of the top walls of the base.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2006Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: Panduit Corp.Inventors: Charles F. VanderVelde, Randall T. Woods
-
Patent number: 7408113Abstract: The present invention is directed to a one-piece corner duct that routes wires in a corner of an enclosure. The one-piece corner duct includes a back wall and sidewalls. The back wall has at least one co-extruded hinge that enables the back wall to pivot to allow the one-piece corner duct to conform to a corner of the enclosure. The sidewalls have a plurality of fingers that retain the wires in the corner duct. The fingers also maintain a cover on the one-piece corner duct to provide access to the wires therein.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2007Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: Panduit Corp.Inventors: Jack E. Caveney, Jeffrey K. Groff, Rodney G. Rouleau, Charles F. VanderVelde
-
Publication number: 20080178542Abstract: A rigid utility portal that can replace a removed or omitted section of the framing members of a wall construction that also includes stud, and that will permit the passage therethrough of electrical utilities, plumbing utilities, and/or HVAC without the necessity of drilling holes in the conventional wooden top framing plates which can destroy the integral strength of the wall. The utility portal may include a center portion for spanning the spacing between framing members and studs, and may include one or two skirt portions and one or two tab portions extending downwardly from the center portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 24, 2008Publication date: July 31, 2008Applicant: Williams Utility Portals, LLCInventor: William Baxter Williams
-
Patent number: 7386960Abstract: A modular supporting structure is intended to support juxtaposed panels in order to form a modular partition wall adapted to subdivide and define a space to be used as an office into independent working zones. The modular supporting structure comprises a lower cross member, a plurality of intermediate cross members, an upper cross member and a plurality of upright spacers, with each upright spacer interconnecting a pair of adjacently arranged cross members. Only one joining element is provided for interconnection of each intermediate cross member to a pair of lower and upper upright spacers, respectively, at their point of concurrence, in order to form a supporting structure consisting of a framework of rectangular elementary cells intended to frame the juxtaposed panels.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2003Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: Unifor S.p.A.Inventor: Piero Molteni
-
Patent number: 7388163Abstract: The present invention is directed to a raceway system including a base, at least two covers a device bracket and a faceplate. The base includes sidewalls having a top wall with a flange member. The covers include a top portion having two ends with a flange member at each end. The flange members of the covers are in mating engagement with the flange members of the base when the cover is coupled to the base. The cover is flush with the base when it is coupled to the base. The device bracket is installed in the base. The covers are positioned over the device bracket and the faceplate is installed over the device bracket. The faceplate overlaps a portion of each cover and extends over a portion of the top walls of the base.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2007Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: Panduit Corp.Inventors: Charles F. VanderVelde, Rodney G. Rouleau
-
Patent number: 7348488Abstract: Raceway for electrical cables having a channel-shaped base element made up of a flat bottom wall, and two side walls which form with the flat bottom wall respective blunt edges and which have a plurality of narrow cut-outs that are parallel and extend perpendicular to the flat bottom wall, and a series of slits arranged between the flat bottom wall and the narrow cut-outs. Each slit extends as far as the flat bottom wall, completely sectioning the blunt edge that the flat bottom wall forms with the side wall. The flat bottom wall is provided with a weakening line extending parallel to the blunt edge. The raceway allows a cable to be deviated through one of the side walls without having to deviate the cable vertically, by breaking away one of vertical flanges defined between the two narrow cut-outs.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2006Date of Patent: March 25, 2008Assignee: Unex Aparellaje Electrico S.L.Inventor: Juan Manuel Benito-Navazo
-
Patent number: 7345239Abstract: One disclosed system comprises a first channel for routing at least one of a plurality of cables in a first direction; a second channel for routing said at least one cable in a second direction; and a plurality of teeth spaced apart from one another and disposed in one of said first channel and said second channel, said teeth positioned to create spaces in-between said plurality of cables before said at least one cable transitions from said first direction to said second direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2003Date of Patent: March 18, 2008Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Philip Tousignant, Denis Foley, Robert M. Mondor
-
Patent number: 7310918Abstract: A wall spine assembly for a modular office system comprises a plurality of individual panel assemblies. Each of the panel assemblies includes a vertical support structure and mechanically affixed lower panels in a rigid box-beam structure. Facing panels are removably attached to support brackets mounted on the vertical supports. A cavity exists between the facing panels and vertical supports to permit the lay-in of cabling through the office system. A crown member is provided on the top of the vertical support and is adapted to receive brackets for the mounting of accessories above a desk or other work surface attached to the panel. The panels, and especially the crown, permit the mounting of office components such as shelves, storage cabinets, lighting fixtures and the like anywhere along the horizontal length of the wall. A horizontally telescoping vertical end post is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2000Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Knoll, Inc.Inventors: Robert E. Reuter, Charles P. Rozier, Jr., Wallace C. Bullwinkle
-
Patent number: 7262371Abstract: Raceway modules of predetermined length are joined by couplers designed to allow optional gaps between the T-shaped raceway base plate portions. Upper and lower L-shaped raceway covers are separately snapped out the base, allowing electrical and data/communication devices to be provided in staggered relationship, and anywhere along the raceway. The lower L-shaped raceway cover configuration allows outlet devices to be provided in the lower side of the raceway. The T-shaped base plate has prepunched knock-out openings and mounting holes provided in a predetermined pattern, and prepunched lines of weakening, that simplify the installation process. The couplers come in several lengths and configurations, to bridge crossing raceway or other obstructions, and to provide continuity in the gaps between the raceway modules. Prewired cover components are fitted with spaced outlet devices for installation in areas of a room that require such service.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2005Date of Patent: August 28, 2007Assignee: The Wiremold CompanyInventors: Mark Makwinski, Richard R. Picard, Jeffery Hemingway, Shawn Stempinski
-
Patent number: 7250574Abstract: A cable trough for installing cables alongside a railway line or other right of way is described. The cable trough is constructed using longitudinally oriented reinforcing fibers coated with polymeric resin that generally aligns the reinforcing fibers with the length of the cable trough. One or more connector clips may be used to secure respective portions of the cable trough to one another. The cable trough is provided with a cover that may be removably secured to an elongate channel to protect the cables housed within the cable trough. Elbows, corners, tees, and other connectors may be provided to run the cable trough in any desired direction. A method of installing cables in a cable trough is also described.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2006Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Inventor: Ronald W. Fox
-
Patent number: 7234889Abstract: An accessory for connecting a portion of a first conduit to a portion of at least one second conduit or to another accessory, which accessory includes a base element and an end element including complementary engagement elements co-operating with one another to allow relative displacement between the end element and the base element between a position in which the end element is deployed relative to the base element, and a position in which the end element is retracted onto the base element. The accessory includes resilient return elements distinct from the complementary engagement elements and suitable for acting between the base element and the end element in order to return the end element into the deployed position.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2004Date of Patent: June 26, 2007Assignees: Legrand France, Legrand SNCInventor: Bruno Gautier
-
Patent number: 7229050Abstract: A component support system includes a first vertical support unit, a second vertical support unit and a raceway system between the first vertical support unit and the second vertical support unit. The raceway system includes at least one floor and at least one divider coupled to the at least one floor and extending non-parallel relative to the at least one floor.Type: GrantFiled: November 27, 2002Date of Patent: June 12, 2007Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventor: Rheid J. Schloss
-
Patent number: 7223925Abstract: A cover fitting for connecting more than one raceway includes an L-shaped top having first and second curved grooves extending along the inner surface of the top and a plurality of hooks extending outwardly from the inner surface for engaging a portion of each raceway base. The cover fitting further includes first and second opposing sides extending from the inner surface of the top. The cover fitting can be used with a fitting base received in first and second grooves for situations requiring a specific bend radius, or in applications without a fitting base, where there are no bend radius requirements.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 2005Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Hubbell IncorporatedInventors: Stephen Ewer, David McBain, Gary W. Bateson
-
Patent number: 7210270Abstract: An elevated raceway for routing utility lines in a vertically spaced relationship above the upper edge of a partition. The raceway includes an elongated passageway configured to retain utility lines in a horizontally extending manner. A first support member extends downwardly from the raceway, and has a connector spaced apart from the raceway a first vertical distance. The connector is configured to attach to a partition frame. A second support member extends downwardly from the raceway, and has a connector spaced apart from the raceway a second vertical distance that is different from the first vertical distance, such that the raceway is supported at a generally uniform vertical height above an upper edge of a partition having sections with different heights.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2000Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Jonathan J. King, Joel T. Ruiter, David J. Dekker, James D. Houda
-
Patent number: 7208676Abstract: An adjustable mid-panel spillover fitting is disclosed. The fitting includes a base, a cover securable to the base, and a cover cap securable to the base and the cover. The base has a spillover side, and the cover has an opening on a side wall thereof for receiving the spillover side. The cover has a shelf extending toward the side wall, and the cover cap has a groove for receiving the shelf therein. The cover cap includes at least one latch on an inside surface thereof for securing the cover cap to the base in a plurality of predetermined positions, and the cover cap is adjustable between the plurality of predetermined positions.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2004Date of Patent: April 24, 2007Assignee: Panduit Corp.Inventor: Charles VanderVelde
-
Patent number: 7205487Abstract: An electrical assembly for use with an electrical distribution system used in a modular furniture system. The electrical assembly includes a flexible sleeving with a first sleeving end which has a first cross-section of a first geometrical shape, and a conduit with a first conduit end which has a second cross-section of a second geometrical shape, where the second geometrical shape is different than the first geometrical shape. A coupler is over-molded the first sleeving end and the first conduit end. The coupler includes a first coupler end and a second coupler end, the first coupler end has a first aperture complimentary in shape to the first cross-section, and the second coupler end includes a second aperture complimentary in shape to the second cross-section.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2006Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: Pent Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Brad W. Plattner
-
Patent number: 7193159Abstract: A raceway base has a T-shaped configuration that mounts to a flat surface so that the stem of the T defines a divider wall for isolating adjacent wire-ways with low voltage data/com cabling and high voltage power cabling. L-shaped raceway covers are separately secured to the raceway base, and allow for outlet devices to be mounted in one of these raceways in a gap between spaced L-shaped raceway covers. A U-shaped device bracket is adapted to be snapped in place one of these wire-ways, and a housing or shroud cooperates with the device bracket to define a pathway for cables crossing through openings in the dividing wall of the base, for connection to outlet devices oriented perpendicular to the flat surface. This geometry provides a generous radius of curvature for data/communication cabling carried in one wire-way, and connected to downwardly facing outlet jacks in the lower wall of the other L-shaped raceway cover.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2005Date of Patent: March 20, 2007Assignee: The Wiremold CompanyInventors: Mark Makwinski, Richard R. Picard, Shawn Stempinski, Jeffery Hemingway
-
Patent number: 7185460Abstract: A free-standing panel wall system adapted for selectively and adjustably mounting wall panels on either or both sides thereof. The wall system includes generally a plurality of horizontally disposed rails, a plurality of vertical supports carried on either or both sides of the horizontal rails, and a registration mechanism for selectively positioning the horizontal rails and vertical supports relative to each other. Each of the horizontal rails defines a plurality of equally spaced-apart first openings. Each of the upright supports defines a plurality of equally spaced-apart second openings. The first and second openings cooperate to receive conventional fasteners such that the horizontal rails are incrementally adjustable along the vertical supports, and the vertical supports are incrementally adjustable along the horizontal rails.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2005Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Inventor: David A. Corden
-
Patent number: 7183488Abstract: A conduit includes an elongate member with an outer surface and an inner surface defining an inner passage for enclosing one or more electrical signal conductors therein, and an electromagnetic shield disposed coaxially with the elongate member to block electromagnetic radiation emitted by the one or more electrical signal conductors.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2005Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Assignee: Secured Systems Licensing, LLCInventors: Craig McCarthy, John Edwards, legal representative, G. Bradford Saunders, Stanley Dunaway, deceased
-
Patent number: 7183502Abstract: An extendable channel unit such as molding unit (21) has a pair of telescopically arranged relatively extendable conduits (55, 75) with a conductor (22) interconnected in conductive relation between the conduits, with an intermediate section (137) of the conductor effective to accommodate the relative extension of the conduits. The intermediate section may include a sinuous configuration (133) or expandable coils (139). The channel unit may be installed along a wall (145) or other surface for decoratively covering the installation of the conductor for connection with an operated device (153). The channel unit may be installed into an extendable ramp (163) when installed along a floor, such as within a doorway (171). Two joints (308, 310) provide freedom of rotation about the conductor axis on opposed sides of an angled joint (312) that provides freedom of rotation about an axis disposed at a 45° angle to the axis of the conductor.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2006Date of Patent: February 27, 2007Inventors: David H. Johnston, Richard A. Clark
-
Patent number: 7154052Abstract: A device plate for mounting a communications device to a raceway defining a wireway, the device plate including a base having first and second opposing sides and defining an opening therethrough for providing access to the wireway when the device plate is attached to the raceway. The device plate being attachable to the raceway such that the first side of the base faces the wireway. The device plate includes a coupler support extending generally perpendicular from the first side of the base adjacent the opening therein such that the coupler support extends into the wireway when the base is attached to the raceway. The coupler support adapted for mounting a coupler thereto. The device plate further including means for attaching the base to the raceway and means for mounting a communications device to the second side of the base.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2005Date of Patent: December 26, 2006Assignee: The Wiremold CompanyInventor: Shawn Stempinski
-
Patent number: 7151222Abstract: A wire shield has a first tubular section for attachment to a fixed component. A second tubular section is integrally joined to the first tubular section along a common longitudinal axis. The second tubular section has an outer diameter with an outer surface. A small key protrudes from the outer surface. A third tubular section has an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the second tubular section. An opening having spaced borders extends through the third tubular section. The third tubular section is fit around, and is able to slide upon, the second tubular section with the key positioned in the opening. A mounting device and a support for an electrical connector extending from the third tubular section are adjustable in longitudinal and angular position relative to the first and second tubular sections within limits defined by contact of the key with the borders of the opening.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2006Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Yazaki North America, Inc.Inventor: James Thomas Jetton
-
Patent number: 7143552Abstract: A support beam and a support frame for an office furniture system which can be used to mount and support a variety of furniture system components and electrical and communication equipment. The support beam has an elongate, hollow lower beam section with a top panel and vertical side panels. An elongate upper beam rail having a top extends parallel to and spaced-apart from the lower beam section. This rail has a plurality of post-receiving holes formed in its top for mounting other components such as a support wall. Spaced apart posts rigidly connect the beam rail to the lower beam section. Rail connecting devices are provided at opposite ends of the beam rail for rigidly connecting it to an adjacent end of another beam rail or to the support frame. The support frame has a horizontal metal beam and two elongate, hollow end frame sections extending downwardly from opposite ends of the beam. A raceway is rigidly mounted on a lower portion of this beam and extends downwardly therefrom.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2002Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Assignee: Nova-Link LimitedInventor: Antonius A. Vander Park
-
Patent number: 7115814Abstract: A conduit system comprises a plurality of elongate channels, each having three walls, one open side, and two open ends; a plurality of coupling devices, each adapted to be disposed between a pair of adjacent channels to couple their adjoining ends together to form a conduit with two open ends; a plurality of first covers, each adapted to be disposed over the open side of one or more channels and to be removably attached thereto by a locking device disposed within the respective channel and adapted to be operated only from within the channel; and at least one second cover adapted to be disposed over the open side of one or more channels and to be removably attached thereto by a locking device disposed within the respective channel and adapted to be remotely operated by an elongated member extending through one of the open ends of the conduit.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2004Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Secured Systems Licensing, LLCInventors: Craig McCarthy, John Edwards, legal representative, G. Bradford Saunders, Stanley Dunaway, deceased
-
Patent number: 7078617Abstract: A cable organizer including a first member defining an elongate channel receivable of cables and including a plurality of apertures through which the cables can be passed into or out of the channel and a second member defining an elongate channel and slidably connected to the first member. The second member is positionable in communication with an aperture in a lower side of the first member by sliding the second member along the lower side of the first member, e.g., in a channel formed in connection therewith for this purpose, such that the cables can be guided from the channel in the first member to the channel in the second member.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2005Date of Patent: July 18, 2006Inventor: Ralph Luciere
-
Patent number: 7055287Abstract: This invention relates to a space-dividing wall panel system having a plurality of base panels which are serially connectable one with the other to define a vertically enlarged wall supported on a floor. Each base panel is defined by at least one horizontal box-beam rigidly connected to a pair of laterally spaced apart vertical uprights which are connected at the opposite ends of the box-beam and have a reduced thickness compared thereto. With this clearance between the faces of the box-beam and the uprights, the box-beam, cross rails at the ends of the uprights as well as additional extension panels are formed with longitudinally extending channels which are positioned free of interference with the vertical uprights and aligned with serially-adjacent channels of serially-adjacent wall panels.Type: GrantFiled: December 8, 2003Date of Patent: June 6, 2006Assignee: Haworth, Inc.Inventors: X. Shawn Yu, Bryan R. Gingrich, Robert L. Tuttle, Keith Foco
-
Patent number: 7053303Abstract: A secure conduit system is described through which electrical, electronic or optical fiber cables, pneumatic tubing, hydraulic tubing or other elongated wiring, cabling or tubing can be routed. The system includes open-sided raceways through which the cable is routed, covers for closure of the raceways, at least one locking device to lock a raceway and cover and being releasable only from within the raceway, with the device release being accessible only though an open end of the conduit, and the remainder of the conduit sections being openable only after release of the locking device of the first section. The conduit system may be multibranched and is intended to be connected at its ends to secure enclosures which allow for controlled access to the cabling and to the release mechanism. Typical uses will be for computer networks, communication systems, equipment control systems and remote environmental gas sampling and analysis systems.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: May 30, 2006Assignee: Secured Systems Licensing, LLCInventors: Craig McCarthy, Stanley Dunaway, G. Bradford Saunders
-
Patent number: 7049508Abstract: A flexible conduit that forms a raceway for cables and wires is provided. The flexible conduit includes a generally flat strip extending along an axis and a first plurality of hinges in the strip. Each of the first plurality of hinges is generally parallel to the axis such that the strip is foldable along the first plurality of hinges between a first open configuration and a second closed configuration wherein the strip of material defines the raceway. A second plurality of hinges, spaced along the axis, is also provided in the strip. Each hinge of the second plurality of hinges extends along a corresponding hinge axis generally perpendicular to the axis of the strip such that the strip is foldable along the second plurality of hinges between the first open configuration and a second folded configuration.Type: GrantFiled: April 20, 2005Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Inventors: Richard D. Bushey, Bret L. Bushey
-
Patent number: 7049517Abstract: A method comprises selecting a first elongated channel member with at least two open ends, placing an elongated carrier in the first channel member so that it extends through the at least two open ends, placing a first cover over an open side of the first channel member to form a hollow first conduit section in combination therewith so that the elongated carrier extends therethrough, and locking the first cover to the first channel member with a locking device that is operable only from within the first conduit section and is accessible only through an open end thereof.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2004Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignee: Secured Systems Licensing, LLCInventors: Craig McCarthy, Stanley Dunaway, G. Bradford Saunders
-
Patent number: 7045707Abstract: Internal and external elbow base fittings have longer sides or legs that can be selectively severed at lines of weakening to make up the raceway base. The offset assembly also includes cover components that snap onto these elbow base fittings, and may match the perimeter raceway system with which the offset assembly is used.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2005Date of Patent: May 16, 2006Assignee: The Wiremold CompanyInventor: Marc Galasso
-
Patent number: 7034221Abstract: An extendable channel unit such as molding unit (21) has a pair of telescopically arranged relatively extendable conduits (55, 75) with a conductor (22) interconnected in conductive relation between the conduits, with an intermediate section (137) of the conductor effective to accommodate the relative extension of the conduits. The intermediate section may include a sinuous configuration (133) or expandable coils (139). The channel unit may be installed along a wall (145) or other surface for decoratively covering the installation of the conductor for connection with an operated device (153). The channel unit may be installed into a ramp (163) when installed along a floor, such as within a doorway (171).Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2004Date of Patent: April 25, 2006Inventors: David H. Johnston, Richard A. Clark
-
Patent number: 7017615Abstract: A protector includes a main body, lids, hinges, and lock portions. The main body including a bottom wall, a first sidewall, and a second sidewall. The lids are coupled to the main body through the hinges. The lock portions are disposed between the lids and the main body. The lids are configured to cover the main body from both sides thereof. A first lid includes a closure plate at an adjacent position thereof. The closure plate protrudes from an end portion of the first lid toward an inner surface side of the second lid. The closure plate closes gap between the first and second lids. A second lid includes a misassembly prevention rib at an adjacent position thereof. The rib protrudes from an end portion of an outer surface of the second lid toward a direction away from the bottom wall.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2005Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignees: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd., Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takashi Suzuki, Hiroshi Sasaki
-
Patent number: 6996943Abstract: A bracket for supporting an electrical junction box within a wall frame. The bracket has a junction box support portion adapted to be connectable to the electrical junction box and a cable support portion extending from the junction box support portion. The cable support portion has a cable securing portion that receives and automatically secures the electrical cables in the cable support portion, thereby fixing the electrical cables a desired distance from the junction box.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2002Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Denier Electric Co., Inc.Inventors: Dennis J. Denier, Charles H. Bull, Joseph P. Kallmeyer
-
Patent number: 6951085Abstract: A utility panel system is provided for open office spaces, and the like. Each utility panel has a relatively thick, skeleton-like frame, with a foot and opposite sides shaped for interconnection with like panel frames to create a substantially freestanding utility panel system. Cover panels are detachably connected to the opposite faces of each panel frame to enclose the same, and provide ready access to the panel interior. Horizontal utility troughs extend continuously between the opposite sides of each panel frame in a vertically stacked relationship. The utility troughs have open ends located at the opposite panel sides, and are positioned such that when adjacent utility panels are interconnected in a side-by-side relationship, the utility troughs are aligned to form multiple raceways. Panel connectors are provided to connect the utility panels with one or more of a variety of existing partition panels, such that the utility panels act as a spine which supplies utilities to the existing partition panels.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2004Date of Patent: October 4, 2005Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Ronald R. Hodges, George V. Weller
-
Patent number: 6936765Abstract: An insert bridges a junction box to provide a continuous path between consecutive pipes of an electrical wiring guideway. The insert includes a generally tubular body having a first end and a second end. The insert has a length that is sized to bridge a gap across the junction box and a diameter that is sized for sliding into a pipe of the electrical wiring guideway. A first flange surrounds the generally tubular body and is spaced from the first end thereof. A second flange surrounds the generally tubular body and is spaced from the second end thereof. The flanges abut opposing inner walls of the junction box to ensure that the insert is not lost into a pipe. A slit extends along the length of the insert to allow for removal of the insert once the electrical wiring has been laid.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2002Date of Patent: August 30, 2005Inventor: Jay Horner
-
Patent number: 6931795Abstract: A work environment providing a work area and a workstation including the information display system are also disclosed. A utility distribution system is also disclosed. An information display system is further disclosed. The work environment may provide a work space that can be arranged or divided to include at least one work area within the available floor space. The utility distribution system includes a utility threshold may be adapted for movement along a predefined path about the work area to selectively deliver utilities to at least one portion of the work area. The utility distribution system may be selectively positioned for use in a variety of locations relative to a track system. The information display system may include a track system adapted to attach to a mounting structure and a plurality of display panels coupled to the track system for movement with respect to the mounting structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Mark A. Baloga, Carl V. Forslund, III, Thomas G. Feldpausch
-
Patent number: 6922949Abstract: A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2003Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Paul T. Cornell, Robert J. Luchetti, Gregg R. Draudt, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
-
Patent number: 6910306Abstract: A knock-down portable partition system has cover panels supported on a post and beam framework designed for quick and easy on-site manual assembly. The framework includes at least two vertical posts and at least two structural beams rigidly, yet detachably interconnecting the vertical posts. Connectors secure the beams to the posts, such that the partition system can be assembled and disassembled manually. The partition system may include utility troughs shaped to retain wires, cabling, etc. therein to provide power and/or communication to the system. The utility troughs have opposite ends shaped to be detachably mounted to the posts.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2002Date of Patent: June 28, 2005Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael R. Shields, Brian J. Kane, Robin Christopher, Dennis J. Boyle, Charles A. Seiber, Peter N. Skillman, Joseph Chang, Richard S. Hand
-
Patent number: 6909044Abstract: A cover fitting for connecting more than one raceway includes an L-shaped top having first and second curved grooves extending along the inner surface of the top and a plurality of hooks extending outwardly from the inner surface for engaging a portion of each raceway base. The cover fitting further includes first and second opposing sides extending from the inner surface of the top. The cover fitting can be used with a fitting base received in first and second grooves for situations requiring a specific bend radius, or in applications without a fitting base, where there are no bend radius requirements.Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2004Date of Patent: June 21, 2005Assignee: Hubbell IncorporatedInventors: Stephen Ewer, David McBain, Gary W. Bateson
-
Patent number: 6903266Abstract: A cable organizer including a first member defining an elongate channel receivable of cables and including a plurality of apertures through which the cables can be passed into or out of the channel and a second member defining an elongate channel and slidably connected to the first member. The second member is alternatively alignable with each of the plurality of the apertures in the first member by sliding the second member along the first member, e.g., in a channel formed in connection therewith for this purpose, such that the cables can be guided from the channel in the first member to the channel in the second member.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 2004Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Inventor: Ralph Luciere
-
Patent number: 6874969Abstract: A trunking angle accessory for establishing continuity between two differently oriented lengths of trucking each including a base section having two lateral flanges with rims that are directed toward each other and include elements for fitting a length of cover section comprises two cheeks each adapted to establish a continuous wall between two lateral flanges of the two base sections. Each cheek carries a strip for establishing a continuous wall between the rims of two lateral flanges of the two base sections. The band of each cheek includes elements for fitting a length of cover section which extend along a circular arc of given radius of curvature.Type: GrantFiled: May 31, 2002Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignees: Legrand, Legrand SNCInventors: Alain Jadaud, Bertrand Decore
-
Patent number: 6865853Abstract: A base plate assembly and method of forming a base plate assembly for use with a wall panel structure that is pleasing in appearance, simple in construction, and easy to install. The base plate assembly is generally u-shaped with top and bottom flanges. Prongs are associated with the top flange that snap into slots on each side of the base of adjacent vertical members that hold wall panels. Slots are located in the bottom flange of the base plate assembly and fit over vertical tabs on each side of spaced supports that enable the height of the vertical members to be adjusted. Pivoting the base plate assembly upward about the vertical tabs allows the prongs to be inserted and locked in the corresponding slots in each side of the base of the adjacent spaced vertical members thereby forming a volume in which electrical wiring, including electrical outlets, may be located.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 2003Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Assignee: HON Technology Inc.Inventors: David J. Burken, James C. Fitzgerald, William J. McKibbin, Christian J. Kleppe, Robert Nichols
-
Patent number: 6861583Abstract: A wire protector for protecting a wire during mounting of the wire on a mounting surface includes a retaining member configured to engage the wire. The retaining member includes a top portion and first and second arms extending generally perpendicularly from the top portion. Junctures between the top portion and the first and second arms are arcuate to engage the wire therein. At least one securing member is connected with the retaining member and adapted to position the retaining member on the surface.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2004Date of Patent: March 1, 2005Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property CorporationInventors: Steven Ryals, Wilson Ryals