Juxtaposed Corrugated Sheets Patents (Class 52/783.14)
  • Patent number: 11746590
    Abstract: A vertical cellular drape configured for use as a covering for an architectural structure may include a front drape panel and a rear drape panel. The front and rear drape panels may be coupled to each other so that the drape panels are configured to be moved laterally between an extended position and a retracted position to cover or expose an adjacent architectural structure, as desired. In addition, the drape panels may be configured to be positioned relative to each other such that a plurality of vertically oriented, internal cells are defined between the drape panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2020
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: John D. Rupel, Ren Judkins, Scott R. Cheslock, Toralf H. Strand
  • Patent number: 11002033
    Abstract: A wall for a building that includes a framed wall structure including a top support, a bottom support, and opposing side supports connected together, and at least one intermediate support attached to the top support and the bottom support, and a blast panel made of a cementitious material attached to the framed wall structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2021
    Assignee: UNITED STATES GYPSUM COMPANY
    Inventor: Frank Pospisil
  • Patent number: 9032691
    Abstract: A structural support system with a means for capturing and channeling elements originating from an exterior surface is disclosed. More specifically, the support system not only creates a dry area under a deck but is also a load bearing component of the deck. The support system is multifunctional in that it alleviates the need for traditional joist-dependent construction methods while simultaneously providing an efficient and aesthetically pleasing structure for maintaining a useful, dry area under the deck. Advantageously, embodiments are scalable in that the system comprises a repeatable series of interlocking components operable to be customized to any foreseeable deck footprint or load bearing application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2015
    Assignee: GDC Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Harold M. Hawkins, III, Michael A. Lyle, Timothy G. Osby
  • Patent number: 8955290
    Abstract: A composite sandwich structure comprises a core sandwiched between composite laminate facesheets. The core includes a plurality of core sections spliced together at joints that incorporate integral features for arresting the propagation of irregularities in the facesheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Charles R. Saff, John H. Fogarty, Haozhong Gu, Terry D. Richardson, Kevin M. Retz
  • Patent number: 8813433
    Abstract: A load bearing structure including a first fixed net layer, a second fixed net layer and a non-linear structure in between. The first fixed net layer may include a first layer of flexible fabric and a fixing material that fixes the shape of the first layer of flexible fabric. The second fixed net layer may include a second layer of flexible fabric and a fixing material that fixes the shape of the second layer of flexible fabric. The non-linear reinforcing structure may be in communication with the first and second fixed net layers and may be configured to share with the first and second fixed net layers a load applied to the load bearing structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: Mark E. Wilsey
  • Patent number: 8708281
    Abstract: The invention seeks to improve the integrity in respect of tolerance to damage following the spread of cracks in failure-mitigating structures of the failsafe type. To do this, the invention proposes to form a composite hybrid structure within the failure-mitigating structure. A failure-mitigating mainframe, particularly of an aircraft fuselage, equipped with a structural element made of composite according to the invention, has profiled longitudinal structural components assembled back to back by fasteners. First sides are longitudinally aligned and bonded to the fuselage skin, and the other sides are longitudinally aligned some distance away from the first sides. Fasteners couple the composite structural element to the external face of the sides of the metal components that are longitudinally aligned some distance away from the first sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Airbus Operations (SAS)
    Inventor: Julien Guillemaut
  • Patent number: 8627612
    Abstract: A net layer (32) defines the shell (40) of a building, carried by any necessary supports. A hardening layer (34) is applied to fix the shape of the net layer (32) and to establish wall, roof, and floor. Optionally the shell is of sufficient strength to receive application of further layers in order to define an exoskeleton. Structures of roof sections include parallel-sided segments and converging-sided segments, with troughed or domed section shapes. Structures of walls include opposed shell sides (35), (78) and central filler layers (70), together defining an exoskeleton. Posts (72) can add additional structural capacities for supporting walls, roof and floor and can be formed integrally of net (32) and hardener (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Mark E. Wilsey
  • Patent number: 8615969
    Abstract: Disclosed is a reinforcement structure of a rectangular flat metal plate, which is provided with: a rectangular flat metal plate that is predominantly subjected to in-plane shear, and supports a compressive load as necessary; strip-like rectangular section members that are spliced in parallel with both side edges of the flat plate in the longitudinal direction so as to reinforce the flat plate; and a plurality of square tube-like members that are parallelly arranged for each constant interval in the shorter side direction of the flat plate, and are spliced on one side surface of the flat plate, or are spliced so as to overlap one another across the flat plate between both surfaces of the front and back of the flat plate, wherein the torsional rigidity and torsional strength of the rectangular flat metal plate are increased to ensure a yield shear load, and shear yield strength can be stably maintained even in the transition of shear deformation after the yield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignees: Suzuki Laboratory of Material and Structure Co. Ltd., Nippon Steel Engineering Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshiro Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8544240
    Abstract: A ballistic resistant construction panel having a series of elongated channels formed by coupling a corrugated member to adjacent planar wall members. These channels are filled with sand to provide the ballistic resistance of the panel. These panels are constructed of a fiber-reinforced plastic material and may be assembled together to form a temporary shelter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventor: John P. Hughes, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8397468
    Abstract: A light-transmitting roof panel assembly, having the same shape as adjoining metal roof panels in a standing seam metal roof, includes an outer transparent panel made of a polymeric material and an inner reinforcing panel made of perforated metal. The inner and outer panels nest together and lie flush with the roof. Crimpable side corrugation pieces are attached to the reinforcing panel so that the assembly can be connected to neighboring roof panels by seaming.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2013
    Assignee: BlueScope Steel North America Corporation
    Inventor: Richard R. McClure
  • Patent number: 8381381
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system, method and apparatus for producing fire rated doors having added strength, better finishing and low cost manufacturing flexibility. The fire rated doors are made from two panels “sandwiched” together. An optional interior layer (e.g., fire resistant material, lead sheeting, steel or Kevlar) can be added between the door panels for various purposes. Splines, stiles or sticks are inserted in longitudinal channels in the door panels to provide assistance in aligning the door panels and greater hardware holding strength. An intumescent banding material concealed by a banding material around the perimeter of the door seals the door within its frame during a fire. The door design and the automated manufacturing process provide greater design choice, reduced cost and faster fabrication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: Polymer-Wood Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Evan R. Daniels
  • Patent number: 8276344
    Abstract: A structural support system with a means for capturing and channeling elements originating from an exterior surface is disclosed. More specifically, the support system not only creates a dry area under a deck but is also a load bearing component of the deck. The support system is multifunctional in that it alleviates the need for traditional joist-dependent construction methods while simultaneously providing an efficient and aesthetically pleasing structure for maintaining a useful, dry area under the deck. Advantageously, embodiments are scalable in that the system comprises a repeatable series of interlocking components operable to be customized to any foreseeable deck footprint or load bearing application.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: GDC Enterprises
    Inventors: Harold M. Hawkins, III, Michael A. Lyle, Timothy G. Osby
  • Patent number: 8221540
    Abstract: A refractory includes a cement, a binder and a matrix. The matrix comprises both stainless steel fibers and organic fibers. The refractory can be easily cast, without additional steel reinforcement, into large fire wall 16 panels 10 capable of meeting the requirements of testing conducted in accordance with ASTM E-119, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials in support of IEEE Std. 979-1994, Guide for Substation Fire Protection. The fire wall 16 assembly withstood the fire endurance test without passage of flame and gases hot enough to ignite cotton waste during a four-hour fire exposure. The assembly also withstood a 45 psi water stream for five minutes immediately following the four-hour fire exposure period. This is a stringent mechanical requirement, as all fire walls 16 must maintain their integrity before, during and after a fire, per the Universal Building Code's definition of a true fire wall 16.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Inventor: Alonso P. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8158271
    Abstract: A panel is disclosed formed of sheet material, the panel having opposite edges and being profiled to include a plurality of formations spaced along the length of the panel and extending between the edges, each formation including a substantially convex section and a substantially concave section which meet at a peak, and wherein each formation meets an adjoining formation at a trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Gram Engineering Pty Limited
    Inventor: Ronald Leslie Mann
  • Patent number: 8118925
    Abstract: A refractory includes a cement, a binder and a matrix. The matrix comprises both stainless steel fibers and organic fibers. The refractory can be easily cast, without additional steel reinforcement, into large fire wall 16 panels 10 capable of meeting the requirements of testing conducted in accordance with ASTM E-119, Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials in support of IEEE Std. 979-1994, Guide for Substation Fire Protection. The fire wall 16 assembly withstood the fire endurance test without passage of flame and gases hot enough to ignite cotton waste during a four-hour fire exposure. The assembly also withstood a 45? water stream for five minutes immediately following the four-hour fire exposure period. This is a stringent mechanical requirement, as all fire walls 16 must maintain their integrity before, during and after a fire, per the Universal Building Code=s definition of a true fire wall 16.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Alonso P. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8104233
    Abstract: A net layer (32) defines the shell (40) of a building, carried by any necessary supports. A hardening layer (34) is applied to fix the shape of the net layer (32) and to establish wall, roof, and floor. Optionally the shell is of sufficient strength to receive application of further layers in order to define an exoskeleton. Structures of roof sections include parallel-sided segments and converging-sided segments, with troughed or domed section shapes. Structures of walls include opposed shell sides (35), (78) and central filler layers (70), together defining an exoskeleton. Posts (72) can add additional structural capacities for supporting walls, roof and floor and can be formed integrally of net (32) and hardener (34).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Mark E. Wilsey
  • Patent number: 8061092
    Abstract: A light-transmitting roof panel assembly, having the same shape as adjoining metal roof panels in a standing seam metal roof, includes an outer transparent panel made of a polymeric material and an inner reinforcing panel made of perforated metal. The inner and outer panels nest together and lie flush with the roof. Crimpable side corrugation pieces are attached to the reinforcing panel so that the assembly can be connected to neighboring roof panels by seaming.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Assignee: BlueScope Buildings North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard McClure
  • Patent number: 8029913
    Abstract: A panel is disclosed formed of sheet material, the panel having opposite edges and being profiled to include a plurality of formations spaced along the length of the panel and extending between the edges, each formation including a substantially convex section and a substantially concave section which meet at a peak, and wherein each formation meets an adjoining formation at a trough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2011
    Assignee: Gram Engineering Pty Limited
    Inventor: Ronald Leslie Mann
  • Patent number: 7980184
    Abstract: A foldably constructed force-resisting structure comprises a top member and a bottom member foldably constructed and assembled from one or more blanks of sheet material, preferably corrugated paperboard, initially in a flat condition. The top member includes a base panel and at least one side portion folded downwardly from the base panel. The bottom member includes a base panel and at least one side portion folded upwardly from the base panel. The top and bottom members are assembled in nested relation to define an interior of the force-resisting structure between the base panels, which are at least substantially parallel to one another. The force-resisting structure includes a vertical support rib structure in the interior defining an X-shaped or cross-shaped configuration. The support rib structure is foldably constructed from the top member base panel and/or the bottom member base panel and provides vertical support for a load disposed on the base panel of the top member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Douglas A. Olvey
  • Patent number: 7921562
    Abstract: A method of welding a deck plate and a closed section rib both constituting a steel plate deck, comprising: working a root portion of the closed section rib to have a flat surface in parallel with a surface of the deck plate; and welding the deck plate and the closed section rib while making the flat surface of the closed section rib to be in contact with the surface of the deck plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignees: Ihi Corporation, Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho
    Inventors: Noboru Kiji, Masashi Fujiwara, Tsutomu Matsuoka, Shigeki Nishiyama, Makoto Ota
  • Patent number: 7770354
    Abstract: A lightweight cementitious panel/tile is provided with increased bending stiffness and less weight than conventional construction panels. The cementitious panel is constructed of a cementitious surface (which may be reinforced with wood fiber or other materials) supported by an integrated stiffener grid on the underside to absorb stresses and loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Inventor: Thuan H. Bui
  • Publication number: 20100115881
    Abstract: A stiffened plate is formed by welding a plurality of stiffener materials which, together with a steel plate, form closed cross-sectional structures onto a surface of the steel plate. The stiffener materials are joined to the steel plate as a result of edge portions of the stiffener materials which are in contact with the steel plate by being laser welded at a predetermined welding speed as a result of a laser having a predetermined output being irradiated from a predetermined direction thereon from the external side of the closed cross-sectional structures. Accordingly, it is possible to achieve an improvement in the weld quality when welding stiffener materials onto a steel plate, and to achieve an improvement in fatigue strength.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventors: Koutarou Inose, Shiro Saito, Junko Kambayashi, Hiroto Yamaoka, Tomohiro Sugino, Isao Kawaguchi
  • Publication number: 20090282778
    Abstract: A composite-structure panel (1) for buildings is provided, comprising a base structure (10) having a plane of development substantially parallel to the plane of development of the panel (1a). Said base structure (10) comprises a plurality of layers (11) having a plane of development substantially perpendicular to the plane of development (1a) of the base structure (10). Said layers (11) are made of corrugated laminar material and each of them defines a plurality of preferably linear waves (12) parallel to one another, which extend in a direction of extension (12a) oblique with respect to the plane of development (1a) of the base structure (10). Also provided is a wall (30) made of said base structure (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2008
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Sebastiano Bertero
  • Patent number: 7540123
    Abstract: The present invention relates to improved base for a large, commercial rooftop air conditioning (A/C) unit. The base is assembled from a series of interconnectable, corrugated floor panels having smooth bottom planar surfaces that may directly be mounted atop existing rooftop A/C unit curbs. The panels are each constructed from metal or steel, concave formed linear members that reside coplanar and are separated by a foam core. There is a base to wall panel connecting rail that simplifies the attachment of the A/c unit's side walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2009
    Inventor: Thomas Middleton Semmes
  • Patent number: 7493738
    Abstract: A lightweight cementitious panel/tile is provided with increased bending stiffness and less weight than conventional construction panels. The cementitious panel is constructed of a cementitious surface (which may be reinforced with wood fiber or other materials) supported by an integrated stiffener grid on the underside to absorb stresses and loads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Inventor: Thuan H. Bui
  • Patent number: 7398624
    Abstract: A structural panel for use in building structures or in the formation, finish or decoration thereof includes an outer sheet and a connector sheet with a plurality of collapsible or compressible dividers therebetween. The panel in a rest condition is expanded and of a desired thickness for final use but can be compressed into a relatively thin thickness or profile for shipping purposes. The panel is very lightweight but structurally strong and can be selectively bent in one transverse direction if desired. The panel can be easily cut or formed into any predetermined size or shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2008
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Swiszcz, Ko Kuperus, Wendell B. Colson, Jason T. Throne
  • Patent number: 7377084
    Abstract: A structural panel for use in building structures or in the formation, finish or decoration thereof includes an outer sheet and a connector sheet with a plurality of collapsible or compressible dividers therebetween. The panel in a rest condition is expanded and of a desired thickness for final use but can be compressed into a relatively thin thickness or profile for shipping purposes. The panel is very lightweight but structurally strong and can be selectively bent in one transverse direction if desired. The panel can be easily cut or formed into any predetermined size or shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2008
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Swiszcz, Ko Kuperus, Wendell B. Colson, Jason T. Throne
  • Patent number: 7207151
    Abstract: A structural panel for use in building structures or in the formation, finish or decoration thereof includes an outer sheet and a connector sheet with a plurality of collapsible or compressible dividers therebetween. The panel in a rest condition is expanded and of a desired thickness for final use but can be compressed into a relatively thin thickness or profile for shipping purposes. The panel is very lightweight but structurally strong and can be selectively bent in one transverse direction if desired. The panel can be easily cut or formed into any predetermined size or shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2007
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Swiszcz, Ko Kuperus, Wendell B. Colson, Jason T. Throne
  • Patent number: 7194846
    Abstract: A structural panel for use in building structures or in the formation, finish or decoration thereof includes an outer sheet and a connector sheet with a plurality of collapsible or compressible dividers therebetween. The panel in a rest condition is expanded and of a desired thickness for final use but can be compressed into a relatively thin thickness or profile for shipping purposes. The panel is very lightweight but structurally strong and can be selectively bent in one transverse direction if desired. The panel can be easily cut or formed into any predetermined size or shape.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.
    Inventors: Paul G. Swiszcz, Ko Kuperus, Wendell B. Colson, Jason T. Throne
  • Patent number: 6941720
    Abstract: This invention generally pertains to a composite building material comprising a lightweight core with a thin fiber cement facing on one side of the core and a second facing material on the other side. The fiber cement facing that is used on at least one of the faces of the building material is 3/16? or less, more preferably ?? or less. The green fiber cement facing is preferably formed by a slurry-dewatering process to form a sheet that is in a plastic, uncured, state prior to manufacture of the composite. The composite building material is assembled in an uncured state and then cured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: James Hardie International Finance B.V.
    Inventors: Harvey Dale DeFord, James A. Gleeson, Donald J. Merkley
  • Patent number: 6886302
    Abstract: A deck drainage system having a plurality of channeled drainage panels. The drainage panels are mounted to direct water flow transversely of the deck joists to a gutter, the panels connected to and suspended from the underside of the joists. The gutter is mounted transversely across the discharge ends of the drainage panels to collect water therefrom and direct it to a down spout. Drainage panels, which are rectangular with the individual drainage channels extending lengthwise, may be overlapped both lengthwise and widthwise to fit the perimeter of the deck.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2005
    Inventor: Anslem Jackson
  • Patent number: 6691482
    Abstract: Decking including a profiled panel having a plurality of open-faced spaced ribs attached to a plurality of respective connecting sections. Each of the ribs defines a recessed area. A panel is received within each of the recessed areas and attached to the profiled panel defining a cavity. Each cavity is defined by at least a portion of the rib and the panel, respectively. The cavity is adapted to receive a tip of a fastener passing through the rib. The fastener is used to secure roofing material to an upper surface of the decking when used to form a roof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: Epic Metals Corporation
    Inventor: Robert L. Ault
  • Publication number: 20030089076
    Abstract: A structure of a wall partition is disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2001
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventor: Ching-Liang Kuo
  • Patent number: 6363665
    Abstract: A modular component shelter includes an adjacent side-by-side array of curved, interlocking, rigid panels. The panels curve upwardly and inwardly to a common vertex from a common base-level circumferential rim. The panels interlock between adjacent panels by means of raised interlocking ribs. The ribs extending in generally vertical planes along opposite side edges of each panel so as to form a first channel along a first side edge of each panel and second channel along an opposite second side edge of each panel. The first channel is shaped to snugly fit within the second channel along the length thereof. The first channel is releasably securable in the second channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2002
    Inventor: Peter Soehn
  • Patent number: 6351914
    Abstract: A light-transmitting building component, as wall roof or ceiling component etc. is formed with a technical membrane, in the form of a textile tissue on the outward-facing side and, furthermore, by a sound-insulation layer arranged at a distance to the outer layer of the technical membrane, and by and infrared-impeding, light-transmitting layer on the inward-facing side. In this manner, a building component is created which features low surface weight and still meets stringent requirements not only in terms of resistance to climatic influences but also with regard to heat and sound insulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2002
    Assignee: Werner Sobek Ingenieure GmbH
    Inventor: Werner Sobek
  • Publication number: 20010018816
    Abstract: A connection element formed of a strip of a corrugated sheet and including a plurality of bearing surfaces (3) spaced from each other and located in a common plane; at least one attachment opening (6, 7) formed in at least one bearing surface (3); a plurality of free-lying top surfaces (4) extending parallel to the bearing surfaces (3); free-lying legs (5) extending between respective bearing surfaces (3) and the top surfaces (4); and at least one through-opening (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) formed in at least one of free-lying top surfaces and legs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2001
    Publication date: September 6, 2001
    Inventors: Elmer Christ Hoepker, Hermann Beck
  • Publication number: 20010003889
    Abstract: A frame for supporting steel cladding panels of steel clad doors and doors formed therewith, the frames comprising a pair of jambs connected by headers and sills, each jamb comprising a molded channel of composite plastic material having within the channel integral bracing extending between the channel side walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Publication date: June 21, 2001
    Applicant: Royal Group Technologies Limited
    Inventor: Vic De Zen
  • Patent number: 6244007
    Abstract: A roof has a series of panels are positioned along roof joists such that there are upper and power panels to provide a series of air paths between the upper and associated lower panel. The upper panels are shorter in length than the lower panels so that a portion of the lower panel is exposed to create an opening for air to exit. The combination of the air paths and the exposed panels permits the free flow of air from the bottom to the top of the roof which allows cooling as well as rain water to flow along the lower panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2001
    Inventor: Unto A. Heikkila
  • Patent number: 6189270
    Abstract: A partition wall system provides for lay-in of cables. The system includes a plurality of interconnected panel sections and a plurality of covering skins. Each panel section has a base surface and a protrusion extending from the base surface. At least one of the covering skins is attached to each of the panel sections, forming a passage between the covering skin and the base surface of the panel section allowing the cables to travel between interconnected panel sections and through each panel section, in both horizontal and vertical directions. Interconnected panel sections may include first and second sheets of material, each sheet of material providing a base surface with a plurality of protrusions extending therefrom, wherein the first sheet of material is attached to the second sheet of material so that the base surface of the first sheet of material is substantially parallel to the base surface of the second sheet of material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Eugene Jeffers, Karl Jahn Mead, Douglas Bruce MacDonald, Charles Anthony Seiber