Impaling-type Fastener Patents (Class 52/361)
  • Patent number: 9260865
    Abstract: The insulated panel comprises exterior sheathing, studs, rigid foam panels and a spray-pour foam. The rigid foam panels are placed up against the sheathing between the studs, and the spray-pour foam is used to fill in the voids.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2016
    Inventor: Jordan Byron Rothwell
  • Patent number: 8622364
    Abstract: A post support device that enables a rotted base portion of a wooden support post to be removed in situ and the remaining end of the support post to be secured for regained structural integrity, the device having a base adapted to being attached to the surface, elevation support means in cooperation with the base for supporting the post above the base, at least two cover plates, each adapted to covering a portion of the exterior of the post, and each including an elongate flange facing inward towards the post and generally transverse to the longitudinal axis of the post, said flange portion including a leading cutting edge to enable the flange portion to bite into the surface material of the post upon the application of force to the flange to provide a mechanical seal between the flange and the post, first and second fastening means for securing each cover plate to the post and the base and the elevation support means to the post or the filler block if one is used, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Inventor: Richard Bergman
  • Patent number: 8387340
    Abstract: In an anchor installation in a lightweight construction panel including first and second cover plates with a support core structure disposed between the cover plates, wherein the anchor is installed in a bore so as to extend at least through the first cover plate and the support core to the second support plate, the anchor includes engagement structures for engagement with at least the first cover plate and the support core and also cement containing balloons which are crushed upon insertion of the anchor thereby releasing the cement which solidifies forming a firm connection between the anchor and the first and second cover plates and the support core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Inventors: Günther Zimmer, Martin Zimmer
  • Patent number: 8365490
    Abstract: An improved purlin clip has an arm and a leg defining a channel to receive the lower flange of a ceiling purlin. A pin is integrally formed with the lower leg of the clip and extends downwardly. The pin is adapted to penetrate a ceiling membrane. A cap is frictionally fit onto the pin to retain the membrane adjacent the purlin, and to support the membrane, with the insulation blown in between the membrane and the ceiling deck. The pin includes teeth or barbs for retentively engaging the cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Assignee: HIDH-R, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin W. Kinzler
  • Patent number: 8117798
    Abstract: A post anchoring method for fence, deck, balcony and railing applications comprising providing an apparatus comprising a base member adapted to being attached to a surface and a tubular member that defines an inside surface, an outside surface and has a base end and a terminal end, and is at least twice as long as it is wide, wherein the base end is connected to the base member, and the terminal end defines an edge capable of piercing into the post; and carrying out the following steps in any order: attaching the base member to the surface; and aligning the post with the tubular member, abutting an end of the post to the terminal end and forcing the tubular member into the post to substantially impale the post such that the outside and inside surfaces frictionally engage the material of the post to secure the tubular member to the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Richard Bergman
  • Patent number: 7827758
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device and method to maintain the integrity of a vapor barrier for use with concrete slab on grade construction. In accordance with the present invention an apparatus to repair a punctured concrete slab vapor barrier includes a substantially planar concrete slab vapor barrier patch having a resealable aperture to receive a removable, substantially upright support. The patch is secured to the existing vapor barrier and the concrete is poured and substantially set. The support is removed and the malleable concrete flows, causing the engagement of the resealable aperture, thereby repairing the punctured vapor barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Inventor: Michael Bauer
  • Patent number: 7568320
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a wall reinforcement system, in particular for tying a veneer wall (21) to a back up wall (22). The system can protect a building against adverse seismic or wind loading conditions. A helical wall tie (1) is driven into a back-up wall (22) using a percussion tool. A connector (10) is then placed over the end of the wall tie, the connector engaging with the helical fins to prevent its removal without unscrewing the connector (10). A reinforcement wire (20), which preferably extends around a building, is then threaded through a hole in the connector to lock the rotation of the connector (10). The reinforcement wire is used to link a series of connectors together. The wire is then encased in mortar (24) within the bed joint between two courses of bricks. In preferred embodiments, more than two reinforcement wires extend in parallel along the bed joint.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Helifix Limited
    Inventors: Robert I. Paterson, Brian A. Breeze
  • Patent number: 7334374
    Abstract: A fastener including a body having a predetermined axial length, wherein the body includes a screw head at one axial end of the body, a threaded portion at an opposite axial end of the body and an unthreaded shank portion extending between the screw head and the threaded portion, and wherein the shank portion has an axial length in excess of at least one-third of the axial length of the fastener body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Ben L. Schmid
  • Patent number: 6918222
    Abstract: A novel fastener for holding and spacing an object at a predetermined distance from a substrate comprises a bridge portion, a first prong extending in a driving direction from the bridge portion, and a second prong spaced from the first prong and extending generally parallel to the first prong in the driving direction from the bridge portion, wherein the second prong is substantially shorter than the first prong.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Illinois Tool Works Inc.
    Inventors: Geronimo E. Lat, Joseph Righter, Jr., Francis D. O'Connor
  • Patent number: 6907699
    Abstract: A fastener for securing a 0.625 inch (? inch) thick gypsum wallboard panel to a wooden building frame. The fastener includes a body having a predetermined axial length. The body includes a cupped head at one axial end of the body, having a diameter that is at least in excess of 0.297 inches ({fraction (19/64)} inches), a threaded portion at an opposite axial end of the body and an unthreaded shank portion extending between the cupped head and the threaded portion, wherein the shank portion has an axial length that is at least in excess of one-third of the axial length of the fastener body, and a shank portion diameter that is at least in excess of 0.098 inches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2005
    Inventor: Ben L. Schmid
  • Patent number: 6883284
    Abstract: A device for use in structures having masonry cavity wall construction for promoting removal of water and water vapor between a masonry exterior wall and a structural back-up wall. A plurality of the devices, which are elongated and have a generally “V” shape, are arranged in a systematic pattern in order to catch and retain trash mortar during a construction phase of the structure. Following construction, the device, which includes a wicking material to transport accumulated water beyond ends of the device, functions to promote the removal of water and water vapor in the cavity so as to prevent deterioration of the building materials of the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Inventors: Paul R. Burgunder, John Koester
  • Patent number: 6820387
    Abstract: A self-furring wire lath has stiffening trusses. In a preferred embodiment the lath comprises a grid of intersecting transverse and longitudinal wires welded at their intersections. Stiffening trusses are formed at bent sections in the transverse wires by first longitudinal wires affixed at the shoulders of the bent sections and second longitudinal wires affixed on the bent sections. A barrier layer is disposed between the first and second longitudinal wires. A building paper backing may be affixed to the barrier layer. The lath reduces cracking and wastage of stucco while remaining easy to work with.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Inventors: Abraham Sacks, Jeffrey L. Sacks, William Spilchen, Narcis Rugina, Harold R. Davis
  • Publication number: 20030024193
    Abstract: A fastener including a body having a predetermined axial length, wherein the body includes a nail head at one axial end of the body, a textured portion at an opposite axial end of the body, a shank portion extending between the nail head and the textured portion, and wherein the shank portion has an axial length in excess of at least one-third of the axial length of the fastener body, a raised ring integrally formed in the shank portion intermediate the nail head and the textured portion and a resilient ring seated against the raised ring on the side of the raised ring opposite the nail head.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2002
    Publication date: February 6, 2003
    Inventor: Ben L. Schmid
  • Patent number: 6367216
    Abstract: A fastener clip for use in constructing a security wall system, and a security wall system so constructed are disclosed. The fastener clip has an elongate smooth surfaced planar body, a counter-sunk fastener recess formed s centrally within the body, a fastener opening defined within the recess and extending therethrough, and at least two spaced prongs formed as a part of the body which extend away from the body in a common direction. The fastener recess is sized and shaped to fit within an opening of a rigid mesh wall panel placed in registry with at least one structural frame member of a building. A threaded fastener is passed through the fastener opening and driven into the frame member to seat a bottom portion of the recess and a driving head of the fastener against the frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2002
    Assignee: Alabama Metal Industries
    Inventor: Gary J. Maylon
  • Patent number: 6173542
    Abstract: Disclosed is an otherwise conventional wood molding that has a keyhole slot milled along its length on the mounting side thereof. Special mounting plates are attached to the wall via nails or other fasteners and include a specially designed key protrusion that mate with the keyhole slot. Inserting the key into the keyhole slot, the molding can be attached to and removed from the wall quickly, easily and repetitively without damaging either the molding or the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Inventor: Roger Wright
  • Patent number: 6164467
    Abstract: A free-standing modular wall system (10, 110) utilizing a plurality of individual slat members (22) stacked vertically one upon the other to form panels (12, 14) and supported upon upright end members (20) having a foot or base (16, 116) whereby the resulting module may be moved from place to place and joined with other such modules to form a longer wall. Preferably, the slats (22) are formed of sheet metal and mounted on transverse hanger brackets (24), to which some or all of the slat members (22) may be either fixedly or movably by interlocking slidable engagement. Preferably, the panels, (12, 14) consisting of slats (22) and hanger brackets (24) are removably mounted upon the upright supports (20). The modular wall system units (10, 110) may either be single-faced or double-faced, i.e., may have only a single slat-wall panel (12, 14) or may have a pair of such panels disposed back-to-back, for use in installations where both sides are fully exposed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2000
    Assignee: Spectra Products Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel D. DePottey, Daniel J. Muellerleile, Ronald J. Friday, Vaninath Uppalapati
  • Patent number: 6158174
    Abstract: A system is provided for providing portable nail care in which a mobile nail care kiosk having running water and a station for providing the nail care is wheeled to a temporary position, such as by a gate of an airport terminal, to permit the on-the-spot provision of nail care services adjacent the gate. In one embodiment, the mobile kiosk is provided with its own self-contained water supply and waste disposal vessel, along with a heater for heating the water for a sink adjacent the nail care table for providing running water for use throughout the nail care process. By virtue of the mobility of the kiosk, nail care services can be provided at a convenient location to passengers or airport personnel whose flights have been delayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Assignee: Nailport Incorporated
    Inventor: Kimberly Mairs
  • Patent number: 6152048
    Abstract: A work station suitable for mounting electrical, communication and computer equipment has a hollow support beam capable of supporting work surfaces and equipment on one side of the beam. Legs mount the beam in a horizontal position above a floor. Support brackets are detachably connected to a side of the beam and work surface members are mounted on these brackets. A support wall is detachably mounted on top of the beam and this wall has rigid metal side panels with rails for attaching shelving and other devices. Each support bracket has an arm supporting section extending perpendicular to the length of the bracket and an upwardly and forwardly extending front section connected to the forward position. The work surface members are connected to this front section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Nova-Link Limited
    Inventor: Antonius A. Vander Park
  • Patent number: 6148567
    Abstract: A space-dividing wall panel system which includes components which are compatible with various types of wall panels and furniture components therefor. These components include a connector bracket having multiple inserts for supporting furniture components thereon, and an interface assembly also is provided which is compatible with various wall panel systems. A spiral cable manager also is provided for supporting cabling within the wall panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip DeRuiter, Pete Beyer, Dave Emery, Robert Tuttle, Kevin Meyer
  • Patent number: 6145253
    Abstract: A head wall apparatus includes a support configured to be coupled to a wall. A front panel is coupled to the support to define an interior region of the head wall. A plurality of first gas blocks are coupled to the support, and a plurality of second gas blocks are also coupled to the support spaced apart from the first gas blocks. Each of the first and second gas blocks have an inlet and an outlet. The apparatus further includes a plurality of first and second gas supply hoses located in the interior region which are coupled to the first and second gas supply blocks, respectively. At least one divider is coupled to the support within the interior region. The at least one divider is configured to separate the first and second gas supply hoses into first and second separate pathways within the interior region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2000
    Assignee: Hill-Rom, Inc.
    Inventors: Dennis J. Gallant, Edward W. Catton, Steven R. Westerfeld
  • Patent number: 6134844
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Paul T. Cornell, Gregg R. Draudt, Robert J. Luchetti, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 6128877
    Abstract: A variable width panel includes a frame having a knock-down construction adapted for on-site assembly. The frame includes a first rigid stile adapted to be disposed in a generally vertical assembled orientation along a first side of the frame. At least two rigid cross-members having first ends thereof rigidly attached to the stile are disposed in a vertically spaced-apart relationship, and extend in a generally horizontal assembled orientation. The cross-members having predetermined full width with a construction which permits the cross-members to be cut to a custom width at a second end thereof during the on-site assembly for use in a special width panel that is adapted for connection with the standard width panels. The frame also includes fasteners for detachably connecting the second ends of the cross-members with the second stile to define a pocket therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Steven F. Goodman, Roy W. Fink, Allen C. Hager, James D. Houda, Michael H. Abson
  • Patent number: 6122865
    Abstract: A workspace display comprises a sidewall partition defining a workspace with a portal opening and a door partition to selectively close the portal. A first display screen is disposed on the interior side of the door partition for individual viewing from inside the workspace. A second display screen is disposed exterior of the sidewall partition and positioned a spaced apart distance in general alignment therewith, without substantial interference with user ingress and egress through the portal opening. A video device is positioned overhead in optical communication with the first display screen when the door partition is in its fully closed position to support individual activities. The video device is in optical communication through the portal opening with the second display screen when the door partition is in its fully open position to support group activities. An image on the second display screen can be viewed on either the interior or exterior screen surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph R. Branc, Mark A. Baloga, William L. Miller, Mitchell Niewiadomski, Joel D. Stanfield
  • Patent number: 6112472
    Abstract: An integrated furniture system for subdividing a building space includes an overhead framework system and a furniture-supporting partition system integrated to be used together, separately, or in a partially overlapping arrangement. The overhead framework system is constructed to provide a relatively open meeting area, and includes at least one horizontally extending beam and posts supporting the beam overhead. The beam and posts are interconnected to form a space below the beam and between the posts, with the space having known height and width dimensions. The furniture-supporting partition system is constructed to subdivide the building space into an arrangement of physically separated offices. The furniture-supporting partition system includes side surfaces defining second width and height dimensions. The partition includes at least a portion positioned in the space under the beam and is potentially positioned completely under the beam in the space. The partition may or may not completely fill the space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel R. Van Dyk, Martin L. Bolinger, Brad L. Dykstra, Jason T. Otto, Michael Miles
  • Patent number: 6098358
    Abstract: A knock-down portable partition including a panel frame having a central portion. At least one cover panel covers at least a portion of the central portion of the panel frame. Connectors detachably mount the cover panel on the panel frame to facilitate assembly and removable of the cover panel on the panel frame. The panel frame includes at least two vertical posts each having an upper end, a lower end and opposite faces with at least two beam connection ports thereon positioned adjacent the upper and lower ends of the associated one of the posts. The panel frame also includes upper and lower beams extending generally horizontally between the vertical posts adjacent the upper and lower ends thereof, and interconnecting the same adjacent the connection ports. Movable lock members having a flexible extension are positioned on one of the posts and the beams adjacent the connection ports, and are movably mounted thereon for shifting between an unlocked position and a locked position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael R. Shields, Brian J. Kane, Robin Christopher, Dennis J. Boyle, Peter N. Skillman, Charles A. Seiber, Joseph Chang, Paul J. Granzotto, Richard S. Hand, Kevin J. Longhurst, Theodore Q. Chau, Douglas L. Scheerhorn, John L. McCrackin
  • Patent number: 6085467
    Abstract: A stackable case to tower conversion for stacking shipping cases that are typically used for storing and transporting "pop-up" display structures for use at trade shows. The case to tower conversion provides a linking module for stacking cases one on top of the other. The linking module includes a plurality of walls, a plurality of projecting members, and a support member and is capable of engaging with the shipping cases to securely attach one case to another. The resulting tower can be used to form a part of the display and to support display panels or graphics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Stellar Holdings, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy Packrall, Andrew Jay Burkette
  • Patent number: 6079173
    Abstract: A knock-down portable partition includes a rigid panel frame having a central portion. The partition includes at least one cover panel covering at least a portion of the central portion of the rigid panel frame. Connectors detachably mount the cover panel on the panel frame to facilitate assembly and removal of the cover panel on the panel frame. The rigid panel frame includes at least two vertical posts having an upper end, a lower end, and opposite side faces. The opposite faces have at least two beam connection ports thereon positioned adjacent the upper and lower ends of the associated one of the posts. The panel frame also includes upper and lower beams extending generally horizontally between the vertical posts adjacent the upper and lower ends thereof, and interconnecting the vertical posts adjacent the connection ports. The panel frame includes quick-disconnect connectors such as movable lock members positioned on one of the posts and the beams adjacent the connection ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael Robert Shields, Brian Joseph Kane, Robin Christopher, Dennis J. Boyle, Peter N. Skillman, Charles A. Seiber, Joseph Chang
  • Patent number: 6076903
    Abstract: A work station suitable for mounting office equipment, and particularly electrical equipment, including an elongate support beam and legs for mounting this beam in a horizontal position above a floor. Work surfaces are mounted on at least one side of this beam and a support wall is mounted on top of the beam. A support wall extension is mounted on top of this support wall so as to increase the overall height of the wall. A self-supporting equipment cabinet is connectible to one end of the support beam and has an access opening in at least one side located adjacent the end of the beam. This opening permits wiring and cable to extend from the cabinet into the beam. Support brackets with horizontal inner arm sections and steeply sloping intermediate arm sections are provided to connect work surface members to the beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Nova-Link Limited
    Inventor: Antonius Adrian Vander Park
  • Patent number: 6076308
    Abstract: A partition panel system including a partition frame with vertically spaced horizontal frame members defining first discrete attachment locations, a pair of horizontally spaced blades adjustably attached to selected ones of the first discrete attachment locations, the blades including opposing inner surfaces defining vertically spaced second discrete attachment locations, and shelves adjustably attached to selected ones of the second discrete attachment locations. This allows the shelves to be horizontally and vertically adjustably supported on the partition frame in a selected one of a variety of positions. At least one shelf has a front portion with edges that extend partially around in front of the blades, thus providing increased surface area. The shelves are supported on the blades by shelf supports. Connectors on the ends of the shelves are movable between engaged and disengaged positions for securely engaging the shelf supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: LaDene S. Lyon, Joylene M. Battey, Kurt P. Dammerman, Michelle L. Lindale, Anthony A. Stachowiak
  • Patent number: 6076317
    Abstract: Workstations are defined using a combination of office panels and bridge arrangements which are attached to and project at an angle from a spine of office panels. The office panel frames which partially define a workstation provide the convenience of power and communication cabling within the panel frames. The bridge arrangements provide a lower cost alternative defining other walls of the workstation while also providing a system which can be rearranged easily. The bridge arrangements are preferably self supporting in an upright orientation and can easily be detached from a horizontal securing channel of an office panel frame and moved to a new position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Teknion Furniture Systems Limited
    Inventors: John Hellwig, Jonathan Liberty, Lorie Marangoni
  • Patent number: 6073399
    Abstract: A combination overhead support system and accessory board includes at least one freestanding post disposed in a substantially vertical position. The post includes at least one longitudinally-extending connector portion. At least one beam is supported at least in part by the post in a substantially horizontal, overhead position. An accessory board having at least one side face configured to removably support articles thereon and opposite first and second marginal side edges is normally disposed in a generally vertical orientation. The first side is detachably connected to the connector portion of the post to support the accessory board on the post in a cantilevered fashion. The second side edge is substantially free, and unsupported by the overhead support system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Shipman, Paul D. Hurley, Robert C. Coon
  • Patent number: 6070741
    Abstract: A memorial death care merchandise display unit and method of displaying the unit that maximizes the types and styles of death care merchandise comprising two vertical, parallel, spaced wing walls and a vertical back wall attached to a rear end of each wing wall. Attached to the back wall and/or the wing walls is at least one angled display board to engage the line of sight of a prospective purchaser and provide a location for the multi-planar display of a variety of death care merchandise, decedent confinement chambers, and visual materials. Additionally, the unit may further contain a cornice and/or at least one illumination source to improve the visibility and notoriety of the death care merchandise. Alternatively, at least two display units are combined to create a modular memorial death care merchandise display unit capable of depicting a plurality of death care merchandise, decedent confinement chambers, and visual materials design lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: The York Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas E. Bachman, Lynn A. Taggart, Alton F. Doody
  • Patent number: 6061972
    Abstract: A portable divider wall including a wall member of a lightweight foam material and two foot supports or feet located along a bottom portion of the wall member for supporting the wall member in an upright position. The foot supports each include a recess in which the bottom portion of the wall member is disposed, and a projection which projects into the interior of the wall member to removably secure the foot to support the wall member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventor: Clarkson S. Thorp
  • Patent number: 6052950
    Abstract: A modular structure for use in displays and exhibitions wherein three girders are affixed to vertical columns in a triangular patter having a right triangle. Triangular floor panels are supported by longitudinal flanges on the beams to provide an elevated load-bearing surface. The structure, girders and floor panels are designed for rapid assembly and take-down.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Exhibit Group/Giltspur
    Inventor: Christopher M. Wendel
  • Patent number: 6019481
    Abstract: A light fixture apparatus including a support frame, a light box coupled to the support frame and a hollow housing portion coupled to the support frame alongside the light box. An opening is provided in the housing and a horizontal electrical outlet is in the housing portion opposite the opening. The housing portion includes the first cover pivotally coupled to the support frame at a first end and spaced from the support frame at a second end to form the opening. A second cover is secured in the housing to enclose the wiring of the electrical outlet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2000
    Assignee: Hill-Rom, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas C. Ambach, Dale A. Nobbe
  • Patent number: 6012258
    Abstract: A dominant and secondary component cooperate with an office panel frame to define a light transmitting port through the office panel frame. The dominant component is supported by the office panel frame and the secondary component is supported by the dominant component. The dominant and secondary components cooperate to provide improved safety features and more effectively distribute accidental forces to the office panel frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Teknion Furniture Systems Limited
    Inventors: Mortimer Brown, Ian B. Kuznick
  • Patent number: 6009676
    Abstract: A partition system includes a first partition having a face and a horizontal row of slots accessible through the face, and a second partition having an abutting end adapted to be positioned adjacent the face. The first partition includes a frame and covers on the frame that define a horizontally extending gap for accessing the slots. A connector for interconnecting the abutting end to the face includes a one-piece U-shaped clip having a pair of legs forming a first end with opposing hooks configured to securely horizontally engage the slots in the face, and having an intermediate section forming a second end configured to securely engage the abutting end. The intermediate section is resilient such that the legs can be flexed together to an install position for insertion into a selected slot and can be flexed apart to a retaining position where the hooks are positioned to securely engage the selected slot in the first partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Developement Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Feldpausch, Stephen J. Feldpausch, William K. Hofman
  • Patent number: 6009675
    Abstract: 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 without tools. The framework includes at least two vertical posts with at least two beam connection ports on opposite side faces adjacent upper and lower portions of the posts. Each beam connection port has a window through the side face of the post, and first and second horizontally aligned fastener apertures in front and rear faces of the post adjacent opposite sides of the window. At least two structural beams rigidly, yet detachably interconnect the vertical posts at the upper and lower portions thereof. Each end of each of the structural beams is shaped for close reception in an associated post window, and includes a vertically oriented, transverse notch through a lower portion of the beam in which a lower edge of the post window is closely received to longitudinally lock each beam in its associated post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael R. Shields, Brian J. Kane, Robin Christopher
  • Patent number: 6000180
    Abstract: A partition construction includes a partition frame having a frame member. A cover panel covers a side of the partition frame. The partition includes a connection system on the cover panel that releasable attaches the cover panel to the partition frame. The connection system includes a plurality of top clips on the cover panel adjacent an upper edge that positively engage the partition frame. The connection system further includes a plurality of bottom fingers extending below a lower edge of the cover panel and engaging at least a selected one of a lower cover panel and a frame member located below the cover panel in a juxtaposed relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Steven F. Goodman, Kenneth D. Brickner, Allen C. Hager, Daniel V. Constantino
  • Patent number: 5987825
    Abstract: A modular message center consisting of at least two multifunctional modules can be assembled with the modules in at least two different relative positions. The modules incorporate a plurality of messaging and informational functions, such as cork board, dry-erase, adhesive notes, calendar, and magnetic message board. The main module is, preferably, square so that the supplemental modules can be attached to either side, top or bottom, with equal facility. The modules can be arrayed in horizontal, vertical, extended horizontal or extended vertical formats. The message center may be, for example, hung on a wall or magnetically affixed to a metallic surface, such as a refrigerator. The frame around one or more of the modules can be fitted to permit storage of felt tip markers or other writing implements along the length of frame member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1999
    Assignee: Rose Art Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence I. Rosen
  • Patent number: 5979118
    Abstract: An expandable/contractible furniture component is configured for attachment to a partition system to provide an adjustable structure adapted to adjust with the partition system as the partition system is adjusted to provide different office sizes. The furniture component includes a corner shelf attached to the partition system, and in-line shelves also attached to the partition system. The in-line shelves are telescopingly adjustable into the corner shelf so that the plan dimensions of the shelves are adjustable concurrently with the partition systems to provide storage surfaces and shelves that extend and completely fill at least one dimension of the office. An in-line telescoping straight shelf construction and a two-way telescoping corner shelf construction are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Steven C. Gortsema, Thomas B. Eich, David P. Churchill, Charles A. Seiber, Frank Freidman, Jonathan J. King, Douglas G. Lyon, Douglas B. MacDonald
  • Patent number: 5974742
    Abstract: An integrated wall, archistructural and desk and panel system comprises a series of modular units that integrate into a variety of configurations with a minimum number of components. The desk and panel system comprises a base wall formed of interconnected modular wall panels having a desk back panel formed of modules of the same height and width and appearance as the base wall panels, so the back of the desk can comprise a section of the base wall. The top of the desk is recessed from the vertical support members and back panel of the desk so that modular upper wall panels can be mounted on the back panel and vertical support members, as well as on the base wall panels, to selectively increase the height of the wall panel system and to create a peripheral enclosure for the desk. A hollow transverse desk support beam and hollow inclined frame members provide wiring access to the desk top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventors: Charles P. Schreiner, Travis M. Randolph
  • Patent number: 5970662
    Abstract: A system for subdividing a building space into work areas includes interconnectable partition panels, each having an internal frame with a plurality of horizontal frame members located at predetermined heights. The horizontal frame members each have at least one horizontal row of slots, and at least one of the horizontal frame members is located slightly above an optimal worksurface height for supporting an interactively used datum shelf. Furniture components are attachable to the horizontal frame members at selected horizontal positions, including the datum shelf, an undershelf storage unit, and an upper storage unit. A mobile furniture unit is provided having a worksurface located at an optimal worksurface height, the worksurface having a cantilevered edge section that can be extended partially under the datum shelf at a selected optimal depth for coordinated and efficient use of the datum shelf concurrent with using the worksurface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Sean M. Corcorran, Charles Anthony Seiber, Robert P. Arko, Frank Friedman, Leon D. Segal, Jonathan J. King, Karl J. Mead, Paul B. Siebert
  • Patent number: 5970679
    Abstract: The structure comprises cold-formed sections built-up from elementary sections joined stably together by means of connecting braces inside the built-up section; said joined elementary sections define longitudinal slots with their longitudinal lips which are bent inwards and each inclined with respect to that opposite so as to converge towards the interior; fastening devices comprising a channel die and one or more pressure pieces are fitted along the slots in order to clamp with screw means the lips that define said slots and deform them with a locking action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Inventor: Gregorio Amore
  • Patent number: 5966879
    Abstract: The privacy screen provides a simple, effective solution to provide visual privacy for the traditional open workstations of office panelling systems. The privacy screen can easily be retrofitted to existing systems without the need for specialized panels or overhead mounting structure at an opening threshold. The privacy screen is mounted to overlap with a face of a panel adjacent a panel and extend there beyond to close the entryway to the workstation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Teknion Furniture Systems
    Inventors: Steve Verbeek, Lorie Marangoni, Harry Ayvazyan
  • Patent number: 5967632
    Abstract: A mobile salon work station. In an exemplary application, the mobile salon work station includes a frame assembly and work areas equally spaced thereabout having mirrored surfaces, storage compartments, swing out shelves, overhead retractable electrical reels and an overhead accessory holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Inventor: John Lamia
  • Patent number: 5943828
    Abstract: A food vending area display structure for mounting on a counter top or other support surface comprising a front row of posts mounted on the support surface so as to extend upward therefrom, a plurality of display headers extending between adjacent posts in the row to identify separate dispensing areas, and a plurality of resilient transverse structural members extending between adjacent posts in the row to enable the posts to support one another in reacting to horizontal loads so that the posts need not pass through the support surface. The resilient transverse structural members may comprise curved metal grill bars having fittings at their ends which enable them to be fastened to the vertical posts by conventional hose clamps to facilitate assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Kraft Foods, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Samborn, William Randolph Dudley, Jr.
  • 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: 5906420
    Abstract: An office furniture system of free standing furniture elements which can be linked to each other comprises a modular desk unit and a modular storage unit. The modular storage unit occupies the same floor footprint as a rectangular desk unit. The separate storage unit enhances the storage capacity of an office layout since the mounting of drawers and shelves are not limited by the desk unit configuration. The storage unit has compatible lay-in wiring trays, accepts compatible modular power components and accepts the same privacy partition panels and other accessories as are mounted to the desk units. When the desk unit and the storage unit are linked into an integrated office design, a continuous pathway is provided for the electrical, communication and data wiring required for the office system. Power cables are physically separated from the data and communication wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles P. Rozier, Jr., Robert E. Reuter, Robert A. Melhuish, Michael L. McAllister, James A. Petronio
  • Patent number: RE36226
    Abstract: A modular system for erecting workbenches and equipped walls, in particular for use in laboratories, comprises a structure constructed of modular uprights and crosspieces to which beams can be fixed which permit supports for pieces of furniture, working tables, etc . . . , to be fitted in a slidable manner.?.. M.!..Iadd., m.Iaddend.ounted to the wall are also panels including electrical connections, panels for fluid supply, etc . . . , which have all of the components entirely received inside the associated wall in a flush-relationship therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 8, 1999
    Assignee: Wright Line, Inc.
    Inventor: Buzzi Antonio