Table and method
A table for offices and the like includes an elongate center beam and two center posts having lower ends abuttingly supported on a floor surface and upper ends connected with opposite ends of the center beam. Two outrigger beams are positioned on opposite sides of the center beam in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and have inner ends connected with one of the center posts. Two outrigger posts are positioned on opposite sides of the center beam, and have lower ends thereof abutting the floor surface and upper ends connected with the outside ends of the outrigger beams to stabilize the table. Two elongate worksurfaces are positioned along opposite sides of the center beam and have a length generally commensurate with the same. The worksurfaces have inside edges connected with and at least partially supported by the center beam, end segments abutting and at least partially supported by the upper ends of the outrigger posts, and outside edges which protrude outwardly from the outrigger posts in a cantilevered fashion and extend freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the worksurfaces.
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The present invention relates to furnishings for open office spaces and other similar environments, and in particular to a furniture construction for tables, workstations and the like.
The efficient use of building floor space is an ever-growing concern, particularly as building costs continue to escalate. Open office plans have been developed to reduce overall officing costs, and generally incorporate large, open floor spaces in buildings that are equipped with modular furniture systems that can be readily reconfigured to accommodate the ever-changing needs of a specific user, as well as the divergent requirements of different tenants.
Desks and desking systems are generally well known in the art, and have typically been configured to support either individual workers, such as in private offices or workstations, or a group of workers, such as with conference tables, library tables and the like.
More recently, desking systems have been used in open office plans, particularly to support group work and/or temporary workers, visitors and other similar personnel. Desking systems have been developed to provide flexible furnishings, which allow companies to create temporary spaces where groups can meet and present, or work on team projects.
Changing technology and changing work processes demand that current office furnishings be readily adapted to efficiently support the ever-changing needs of workers. Therefore, the quick and easy reconfigurability of desking systems is desired to meet these needs. Also important is ready user accessibility and power and data capabilities, as well as visual appeal and style, while effectively managing the ever-growing web of wires vital to business and education collaborations. The cost of office furniture, and reconfigurability of the same, are also important factors, such that an uncomplicated design that is economical to manufacture and reconfigure is clearly beneficial.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONOne aspect of the present invention is a table for offices and the like, comprising a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a predetermined length therebetween. First and second center post members are positioned adjacent to the first and second ends of the center beam member, and have lower ends configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends operably connected with the first and second ends of the center beam member to support the center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface. First and second rigid outrigger beam members are positioned at opposite sides of the center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and have outer ends, and inner ends operably connected with opposite sides of the first center post member. First and second outrigger post members are positioned on opposite sides of the center beam member adjacent the first center post member, and have lower ends configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends operably connected with the outside ends of the first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize the table. First and second elongate worksurfaces are positioned along the opposite sides of the center beam member, and have predetermined lengths generally commensurate with the predetermined length of the center beam member, inside edges operably connected with and at least partially supported by the center beam member, end segments abutting and at least partially supported by the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members, and outside edges protruding outwardly from the first and second outrigger posts in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the first and second worksurfaces.
Another aspect of the present invention is a table for offices and the like, comprising a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a predetermined length therebetween. First and second center post members are positioned adjacent to the first and second ends of the center beam member, and have lower ends configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends operably connected with the first and second ends of the center beam member to support the center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface. At least one outrigger beam member is positioned on one side of the center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and has an outer end, and an inner end operably connected with an associated side of the first center post member. At least one outrigger post member is positioned on the one side of the center beam member adjacent the first center post member, and has a lower end configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and an upper end operably connected with the outside end of the outrigger beam member to stabilize the table. At least one elongate worksurface is positioned along the one side of the center beam member, and has a predetermined length generally commensurate with the predetermined length of the center beam member, an inside edge operably connected with and at least partially supported by the center beam member, an end segment abutting and at least partially supported by the upper end of the outrigger post member, and an outside edge protruding outwardly from the outrigger post member in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the worksurface.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is an improvement in tables for offices and the like, comprising a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a predetermined length therebetween. At least one center post member is positioned adjacent to the first end of the center beam member, and has a lower end configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and an upper end operably connected with the first end of the center beam member to support at least a portion of the center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface. First and second rigid outrigger beam members are positioned at opposite sides of the center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and have outer ends, and inner ends operably connected with opposite sides of the center post member. First and second outrigger post members are positioned on opposite sides of the center beam member adjacent the center post member, and have lower ends configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends operably connected with the outside ends of the first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize the table. First and second elongate worksurfaces are positioned along the opposite sides of the center beam member, and have predetermined lengths generally commensurate with the predetermined length of the center beam member, inside edges operably connected with and at least partially supported by the center beam member, end segments abutting and at least partially supported by the upper ends of the outrigger post members, and outside edges protruding outwardly from the outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the first and second worksurfaces.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is an improvement in tables for offices and the like, comprising a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a predetermined length therebetween. At least one center post member is positioned adjacent to the first end of the center beam member, and has a lower end thereof configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and an upper end configured for operable connection with the first end of the center beam member to support at least a portion of the center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface. The center post member has a generally X-shaped transverse cross-sectional configuration, including four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of the center post member, and wherein the first end of the center beam member is detachably connected with the first one of the flanges on the first center post member. At least one rigid outrigger beam member is positioned on one side of the center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and has an outer end, and an inner end operably connected with an associated side of the center post member. The outrigger beam has a lateral cross-sectional shape which is generally commensurate with the lateral cross-sectional shape of the center beam member. At least one outrigger post is positioned on the side of the center beam member adjacent the center post member, and has a lower end configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and an upper end operably connected with the outside end of the outrigger beam member to stabilize the table. The outrigger post member has a generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration that is generally commensurate with the cross-sectional configuration of the center post member, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of the outrigger post member, and wherein the outer end of the outrigger beam member is detachably connected with a first one of the flanges on the outrigger post member. At least one elongate worksurface is positioned along the one side of the center beam member, and has a predetermined length generally commensurate with the predetermined length of the center beam member, an end segment abutting and at least partially supported by the upper end of the outrigger post member, and an outside edge protruding outwardly from the outrigger post member in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the worksurface.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a method for making a table, comprising the steps of forming a rigid, elongate center beam member with first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a predetermined length therebetween, and forming rigid first and second center post members with lower ends configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends configured for operable connection with the first and second ends of the center beam member. The method further includes the steps of forming rigid first and second outrigger beam members with outer ends, and inner ends configured for operable connection with opposite sides of the first center post member, forming first and second outrigger post members with lower ends configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends configured for operable connection with the outside ends of the first and second outrigger beam members, and forming first and second elongate worksurfaces with predetermined lengths generally commensurate with the predetermined length of the center beam member. The method further includes the steps of detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second center post members with the first and second ends of the center beam member to support the center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface, positioning the first and second outrigger beam members on opposite sides of the center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and detachably connecting the inner ends of the first and second outrigger beam members with opposite sides of the first center post member. The method further includes the steps of positioning the first and second outrigger post members on opposite sides of the center beam member adjacent the first center post member, and detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members with the outside ends of the first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize the table. The method further includes the steps of positioning the first and second worksurfaces along the opposite sides of the center beam member with inside edges thereof extending generally parallel and adjacent to the opposite sides of the center beam member, end segments positioned adjacent to the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members, and outside edges protruding outwardly from the first and second outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the first and second worksurfaces. The method further includes the steps of detachably connecting at least a portion of the inside edges of the first and second worksurfaces with the center beam member to at least partially support the same thereon, and abuttingly engaging the end segments of the first and second worksurfaces on the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members to at least partially support the same thereon.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a method for making a table, comprising the steps of forming a plurality of rigid, elongate beam members with first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a variety of different predetermined lengths therebetween, and forming first and second center post members with lower ends configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends configured for operable connection with the first and second ends of an associated one of the center beam members. The method also includes the steps of forming rigid first and second outrigger beam members with outer ends, and inner ends configured for operable connection with opposite sides of the first post member, forming first and second outrigger post members with lower ends configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends configured for operable connection with the outside ends of the first and second outrigger beam members, and forming a plurality of pairs of elongate worksurfaces with a variety of different predetermined lengths generally commensurate with the predetermined lengths of the center beam members. The method further includes the steps of selecting one of the center beam members with a predetermined length generally commensurate with the desired length of the table, and detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second center post members with the first and second ends of the one center beam member to support the one center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface. The method further includes the steps of positioning the first and second outrigger beam members on opposite sides of the one center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and detachably connecting the inner ends of the first and second outrigger beam members with opposite sides of the first center beam member. The method further includes the steps of positioning the first and second outrigger post members on opposite sides of the one center beam member adjacent the first center post member, and detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members with the outer ends of the first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize the table. The method further includes the steps of selecting one pair of the worksurfaces with predetermined lengths substantially commensurate with the predetermined length of the one center beam member, and positioning the first and second worksurfaces along the opposite sides of the center beam member with inside edges thereof extending generally parallel and adjacent to the opposite sides of the center beam member, end segments positioned adjacent to the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members, and outside edges protruding outwardly from the first and second outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the first and second worksurfaces. The method further includes the steps of detachably connecting at least a portion of the inside edges of the first and second worksurfaces with the center beam member to at least partially support the same thereon, and abuttingly engaging at least a portion of the end segments of the first and second worksurfaces with the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members to at least partially support the same thereon.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a table and method with improved user accessibility and power and data capabilities, as well as visual appeal and style. The table is extremely flexible, adaptable, compact, sturdy, and economical to manufacture in a wide variety of different sizes and shapes using common parts.
Yet another aspect of the present invention is a table construction capable of using common accessories on and interchanged among portable partition systems, post and beam partition systems and tables. Such accessories may include power and data communication outlets, varied receptacles, file cabinets, partition screens, tables, light fixtures and utility managers, as well as other various support devices. Preferably, the table construction uses common parts and/or systems from a post and beam furniture system to create a table, workstation or the like. The table construction utilizes a common aesthetic appearance between the various configurations, as well as common utility routing techniques between the various configurations.
These and other advantages of the invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specification, claims and appended drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, “rear”, “front”, “vertical”, “horizontal” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in
The reference numeral 1 (
In the example illustrated in
It is to be understood that the modular construction of table 1, as well as the related method of manufacture, permit constructing a wide variety of tables having different shapes, sizes and heights. For example, the table 1 illustrated in
Each of the illustrated center beams 2 and 2a has a lateral cross-sectional shape and size that is substantially identical to the beam disclosed in Applicants' related application Ser. Nos. 10/087,324 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,914), 10/753,663 and 11/122,899, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. More specifically, as best illustrated in
The illustrated outrigger beams 11 & 12, 11a & 12a, and 11b & 12b each have a lateral cross-sectional shape and size which is substantially identical to center beam 2, as illustrated in
The illustrated center posts 5, 6 and 6a have a substantially identical construction, wherein each has a lateral cross-sectional shape and size that is substantially identical to the post disclosed in Applicants' related application Ser. Nos. 10/087,324 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,914), 10/753,663 and 11/122,899, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. More specifically, each center post 5, 6 and 6a has a generally cruciform or X-shaped transverse cross-sectional configuration defined by four mutually perpendicular flanges 80-83, which extend outwardly from a generally square central region 84. Each of the flanges 80-83 has a square plan configuration and a flat end face 85 with a single longitudinal slot 86 extending centrally along end face 85. Each of the slots 86 has a generally T-shaped lateral cross-sectional configuration defined by an enlarged interior track portion 87, a reduced neck portion 88 which opens laterally outwardly, and arcuate clamping portions 89 which mate with connectors 40. The shape and size of slots 86 in center post 5 are similar to the shape and size of the slots 54 and 55 in center beam 2, so as to accept a common connector 40 therein. Each of the illustrated center posts 5, 6 and 6a includes a circular base or foot 90 attached to the lower end 7, 8 and 8a thereof to facilitate abutting support on an associated floor surface. Foot 90 may be vertically adjustable to accommodate for undulations or unevenness in the floor surface.
The illustrated outrigger posts 17 & 18, 17a & 18a, and 17b & 18b each have a lateral cross-sectional shape and size which is substantially identical with the center posts 5, 6 and 6a, as illustrated in
The worksurfaces 23 and 24 illustrated in
In the table 1 illustrated in
With reference to
With reference to
With reference to
The illustrated nut plate 102 has a substantially rectangular plan configuration defined by opposite ends 140 and opposite sides 141 which are shaped to be closely received within the notches 70 and 73 of center beam 2. Each of the illustrated nut plates 102 includes a pair of threaded apertures 142 extending laterally therethrough at a medial portion of the associated nut plate 102, which are configured to threadedly receive therein associated fasteners 101.
As best illustrated in
As noted above, the opposite end 4 of center beam 2 is attached to center post 6 in a similar fashion, and the opposite ends of outrigger beams 11 & 12, 11a & 12a, and 11b & 12b are attached to outrigger posts 17 & 18, 17a & 18a, and 17b & 18b, as well as center posts 6a, in a similar fashion.
Preferably, the inner ends 15 and 16 of outrigger beams 11 & 12, 11a & 12a, and 11b & 12b are attached to center posts 5, 6 and 6a at locations vertically below the top surface 50 of center beam 2, such that at least a portion of center beam 2 extends upwardly above worksurfaces 23 and 24 in the manner illustrated in
With reference to
In the table 1 illustrated in
With reference to
The reference numeral 1c (
The reference numeral 1d (
The reference numeral 1e (
The reference numeral 1f generally designates yet another embodiment of the present invention, having an exposed wireway. Since table 1f is similar to the previously described table 1, similar parts appearing in
Tables 1-1d may be made in the following manner. A plurality of center beams 2 and 2a are cut from channel stock into lengths commensurate with the length desired between associated center posts 5 and 6. A plurality of outrigger beams 11, 12, 11a, 12a, 11b, and 12b are similarly cut to length from the same channel stock, but in shorter lengths in accordance with the desired width of the table. A plurality of center post members 5, 6 and 6a are cut to length from X-shaped channel at a length commensurate with the height at which the center beams 2 and 2a are to be supported. The outrigger posts 17, 18, 17a, 18a, 17b, and 18b are similarly cut from the same X-shaped channel to a length commensurate with the height at which worksurfaces 23 and 24 are to be supported. Feet 90 are attached to the lower ends of center posts 5, 6 and 6a, as well as outrigger posts 17, 18, 17a, 18a, 17b, and 18b. Connector assemblies 40 are then used to interconnect each of the center beams 2, 2a with the center posts 5, 6 and 6a in the manner described above. Outrigger beams 11, 12, 11a, 12a, 11b, and 12b are then connected with the center posts 5, 6 and 6a, as well as the outrigger posts 17, 18, 17a, 18a, 17b, and 18b, using connector assemblies 40. Worksurfaces 23 and 24 are then formed and/or selected of an appropriate length and width commensurate with the desired dimensions of the table. In the example illustrated in
Tables 1-1d can therefore be made in a wide variety of different shapes and sizes using parts which are not only common to one another, but also common to the related post and beam furniture system disclosed in Applicants' prior application Ser. Nos. 10/087,324 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,914) and 10/753,663. Tables 1-1d therefore present a common aesthetic appearance which permits the furniture systems to be used in close proximity and in various configurations. Furthermore, tables 1-1d are capable of using accessories common with Applicants' related furniture systems, such that they can be easily and quickly interchanged among the tables 1-1d and related post and beam furniture systems.
As will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing description, tables 1-1d may be provided in a wide variety of different shapes and sizes. For example, the various segments of the frame can be interconnected to create tables with not only rectangular configurations, but also tables having “L”, “T”, “X”, zigzag and other similar plan shapes. The worksurfaces may also be configured to provide corner surfaces, and may assume a wide variety of different geometric shapes, including, but not limited to, rectangular, square, triangular, round, oval, elliptical, etc., as well as nonsymmetrical shapes. Consequently, tables 1-1d can be configured to support many varied applications, and can even be reconfigured into different shapes if desired.
In the foregoing description, it will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the concepts disclosed herein. Such modifications are to be considered as included in the following claims, unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.
Claims
1. A table for offices and the like, comprising:
- a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends thereof defining a predetermined length therebetween;
- first and second center post members, positioned adjacent to said first and second ends of said center beam member, and having lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends thereof operably connected with said first and second ends of said center beam member to support said center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface;
- first and second rigid outrigger beam members positioned on opposite sides of said center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and having outer ends thereof, and inner ends thereof operably connected with opposite sides of said first center post member;
- first and second outrigger post members positioned on said opposite sides of said center beam member adjacent said first center post member, and having lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends thereof operably connected with said outside ends of said first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize said table; and
- first and second elongate worksurfaces positioned along said opposite sides of said center beam member, and having predetermined lengths thereof generally commensurate with said predetermined length of said center beam member, inside edges thereof operably connected with and at least partially supported by said center beam member, end segments thereof abuttingly engaging and at least partially supported by said upper ends of said first and second outrigger post members, and outside edges thereof protruding outwardly from said first and second outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to said first and second worksurfaces.
2. A table as set forth in claim 1, including:
- third and fourth rigid outrigger beam members positioned on opposite sides of said center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and having outer ends thereof, and inner ends thereof operably connected with opposite sides of said second center post member; and
- third and fourth outrigger post members positioned on said opposite sides of said center beam member adjacent said second center post member, and having lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends thereof operably connected with said outside ends of said third and fourth outrigger beam members to further stabilize said table.
3. A table as set forth in claim 2, wherein:
- said first and second worksurfaces abuttingly engage and are at least partially supported by said upper ends of said third and fourth outrigger post members.
4. A table as set forth in claim 3, wherein:
- said first center post member has a generally X-shaped transverse cross-sectional configuration, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of said first center post member; and
- said first end of said center beam member is detachably connected with a first one of said flanges on said first center post member.
5. A table as set forth in claim 4, wherein:
- said inner ends of said first and second outrigger beam members are detachably connected with second and third ones of said flanges on said first center post member.
6. A table as set forth in claim 5, wherein:
- said first outrigger post member has a generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration that is generally commensurate with said cross-sectional configuration of said first center post member, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of said first outrigger post member; and
- said outer end of said first outrigger beam member is detachably connected with a first one of said flanges on said first outrigger post member.
7. A table as set forth in claim 6, wherein:
- each of said flanges of said first center post member includes a T-shaped slot extending along an outer edge thereof; and including
- a first connector retained in said T-shaped slot of said one flange on said first center post member and detachably connected with said first end of said center beam member.
8. A table as set forth in claim 7, including:
- a second connector retained in said T-shaped slot of said second flange on said first center post member and detachably connected with said inner end of said first outrigger beam member.
9. A table as set forth in claim 8, wherein:
- each of said flanges of said first outrigger post member includes a T-shaped slot extending along an outer edge thereof; and including
- a third connector retained in said T-shaped slot of said one flange on said first outrigger post member and detachably connected with said outer end of said first outrigger beam member.
10. A table as set forth in claim 9, wherein:
- said center beam member includes mounting slots extending along opposite side faces thereof; and including
- a plurality of brackets detachably retained in said mounting slots, and detachably connected with said first and second worksurfaces to at least partially support said inside edges thereof.
11. A table as set forth in claim 10, wherein:
- said first and second center post members have a height greater than the height of said first, second, third and fourth outrigger post members, such that at least an upper portion of said center beam member protrudes vertically above said first and second worksurfaces.
12. A table as set forth in claim 11, wherein:
- said mounting slots on said center beam member are disposed vertically above said first and second worksurfaces, and are configured to receive and detachably retain accessories therein.
13. A table as set forth in claim 12, including:
- a plurality of accessories detachably retained in said mounting slots on said center beam member.
14. A table as set forth in claim 13, wherein:
- said first and second outrigger beam members have a lateral cross-sectional shape which is generally commensurate with the lateral cross-sectional shape of said center beam member.
15. A table as set forth in claim 14, wherein:
- said center beam member defines a first center beam member; and including
- a second rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends thereof defining a predetermined length therebetween; and wherein
- said first end of said second center beam member is detachably connected to a fourth one of said flanges on said first center post member.
16. A table as set forth in claim 15, including:
- a third center post member, positioned adjacent to said second end of said second center beam member, and having a lower end thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and an upper end thereof operably connected with said second end of said second center beam member to support said second center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface in alignment with said first center beam member;
- fifth and sixth rigid outrigger beam members positioned on opposite sides of said second center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and having outer ends thereof, and inner ends thereof operably connected with opposite sides of said third center post member;
- fifth and sixth outrigger post members positioned on said opposite sides of said second center beam member adjacent said third center post member, and having lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends thereof operably connected with said outside ends of said fifth and sixth outrigger beam members to stabilize said table; and
- third and fourth elongate worksurfaces positioned along said opposite sides of said second center beam member, and having predetermined lengths thereof generally commensurate with said predetermined length of said second center beam member, inside edges thereof operably connected with and at least partially supported by said second center beam member, end edges thereof abuttingly engaging and at least partially supported by said upper ends of said fifth and sixth outrigger post members, and outside edges thereof protruding outwardly from said fifth and sixth outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to said third and fourth worksurfaces.
17. A table as set forth in claim 16, wherein:
- said third center post member and said fifth and sixth outrigger post members have a generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration that is generally commensurate with said cross-sectional configuration of said first and second center post members and said first, second, third and fourth outrigger post members; and
- said second center beam member and said fifth and sixth outrigger beam members have a lateral cross-sectional shape that is generally commensurate with said lateral cross-sectional shape of said first center beam member and said first, second, third and fourth outrigger beam members.
18. A table as set forth in claim 17, wherein:
- each of said first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth outrigger beam members includes a T-shaped slot extending along a lower edge thereof; and
- said accessories include at least one electrical outlet member detachably mounted in said T-slot in an associated one of said outrigger beams.
19. A table as set forth in claim 18, including:
- at least one shroud positioned around and enclosing at least a portion of said one outrigger beam and said one of said outrigger post members connected therewith.
20. A table for offices and the like, comprising:
- a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends thereof defining a predetermined length therebetween;
- first and second center post members, positioned adjacent to said first and second ends of said center beam member, and having lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends thereof operably connected with said first and second ends of said center beam member to support said center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface;
- at least one outrigger beam member positioned on one side of said center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and having an outer end thereof, and an inner end thereof operably connected with an associated side of said first center post member;
- at least one outrigger post member positioned on said one side of said center beam member adjacent said first center post member, and having a lower end thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and an upper end thereof operably connected with said outside end of said outrigger beam member to stabilize said table; and
- at least one elongate worksurface positioned along said one side of said center beam member, and having a predetermined length thereof generally commensurate with said predetermined length of said center beam member, an inside edge thereof operably connected with and at least partially supported by said center beam member, an end segment thereof abuttingly engaging and at least partially supported by said upper end of said outrigger post member, and an outside edge thereof protruding outwardly from said outrigger post member in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to said worksurface.
21. A table as set forth in claim 20, wherein:
- said first center post member has a generally X-shaped transverse cross-sectional configuration, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of said first center post member;
- said first end of said center beam member is detachably connected with a first one of said flanges on said first center post member; and
- said inner end of said outrigger beam member is detachably connected with a second one of said flanges on said first center post member.
22. A table as set forth in claim 21, wherein:
- said outrigger post member has a generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration that is generally commensurate with said cross-sectional configuration of said first center post member, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of said outrigger post member;
- said outer end of said outrigger beam member is detachably connected with a first one of said flanges on said outrigger post member; and
- said outrigger beam member has a lateral cross-sectional shape which is generally commensurate with the lateral cross-sectional shape of said center beam member.
23. A table as set forth in claim 22, wherein:
- said center beam member includes mounting slots extending along opposite side faces thereof; and including
- a plurality of brackets detachably retained in said mounting slots, and detachably connected with said worksurface to at least partially support said inside edge thereof.
24. A table as set forth in claim 23, wherein:
- said first and second center post members have a height greater than the height of said outrigger post member, such that at least an upper portion of said center beam member protrudes vertically above said worksurface;
- said mounting slots on said center beam member are disposed vertically above said worksurface, and including
- a plurality of accessories detachably retained in said mounting slots on said center beam member.
25. In a table for offices and the like, the improvement comprising:
- a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends thereof defining a predetermined length therebetween;
- at least one center post member, positioned adjacent to said first end of said center beam member, and having a lower end thereof configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and an upper end thereof operably connected with said first end of said center beam member to support at least a portion of said center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface;
- first and second rigid outrigger beam members positioned on opposite sides of said center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and having outer ends thereof, and inner ends thereof operably connected with opposite sides of said center post member;
- first and second outrigger post members positioned on said opposite sides of said center beam member adjacent said center post member, and having lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends thereof operably connected with said outside ends of said first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize said table; and
- first and second elongate worksurfaces positioned along said opposite sides of said center beam member, and having predetermined lengths thereof generally commensurate with said predetermined length of said center beam member, inside edges thereof operably connected with and at least partially supported by said center beam member, end segments thereof abuttingly engaging and at least partially supported by said upper ends of said outrigger post members, and outside edges thereof protruding outwardly from said outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to said first and second worksurfaces.
26. A table as set forth in claim 25, wherein:
- said center post member has a generally X-shaped transverse cross-sectional configuration, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of said first center post member;
- said first end of said center beam member is detachably connected with a first one of said flanges on said first center post member; and
- said inner ends of said first and second outrigger beam members are detachably connected with second and third ones of said flanges on said center post member.
27. A table as set forth in claim 26, wherein:
- said first outrigger post member has a generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration that is generally commensurate with said cross-sectional configuration of said center post member, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of said first outrigger post member;
- said outer end of said first outrigger beam member is detachably connected with a first one of said flanges on said first outrigger post member; and
- said first and second outrigger beam members have a lateral cross-sectional shape which is generally commensurate with the lateral cross-sectional shape of said center beam member.
28. A table as set forth in claim 27, wherein:
- said center beam member includes mounting slots extending along opposite side faces thereof; and including
- a plurality of brackets detachably retained in said mounting slots, and detachably connected with said first and second worksurfaces to at least partially support said inside edges thereof.
29. A table as set forth in claim 28, wherein:
- said center post member has a height greater than the height of said first and second outrigger post members, such that at least an upper portion of said center beam member protrudes vertically above said first and second worksurfaces;
- said mounting slots on said center beam member are disposed vertically above said first and second worksurfaces; and including
- a plurality of accessories detachably retained in said mounting slots on said center beam member.
30. In a table for offices and the like, the improvement comprising:
- a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends thereof defining a predetermined length therebetween;
- at least one center post member, positioned adjacent to said first end of said center beam member, and having a lower end thereof configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and an upper end thereof configured for operable connection with said first end of said center beam member to support at least a portion of said center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface; said center post member having a generally X-shaped transverse cross-sectional configuration, and including four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of said center post member, and wherein said first end of said center beam member is detachably connected with a first one of said flanges on said first center post member;
- at least one rigid outrigger beam member positioned on one side of said center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and having an outer end thereof, and an inner end thereof operably connected with an associated side of said center post member; said outrigger beam member has a lateral cross-sectional shape which is generally commensurate with the lateral cross-sectional shape of said center beam member;
- at least one outrigger post member positioned on said side of said center beam member adjacent said center post member, and having a lower end thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and an upper end thereof operably connected with said outside end of said outrigger beam member to stabilize said table; said outrigger post member having a generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration that is generally commensurate with said cross-sectional configuration of said center post member, and including four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of said outrigger post member, and wherein said outer end of said outrigger beam member is detachably connected with a first one of said flanges on said outrigger beam member; and
- at least one elongate worksurface positioned along said one side of said center beam member, and having a predetermined length thereof generally commensurate with said predetermined length of said center beam member, an inside edge thereof operably connected with and at least partially supported by said center beam member, an end segment thereof abuttingly engaging and at least partially supported by said upper end of said outrigger post member, and an outside edge thereof protruding outwardly from said outrigger post member in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to said worksurface.
31. A table as set forth in claim 30, wherein:
- each of said flanges of said center post member includes a T-shaped slot extending along an outer edge thereof; and including
- a first connector retained in said T-shaped slot of said one flange of said center post member and detachably connected with said first end of said center beam member.
32. A table as set forth in claim 31, wherein:
- said center beam member includes mounting slots extending along opposite side faces thereof; and including
- a plurality of brackets detachably retained in said mounting slots, and detachably connected with said first and second worksurfaces to at least partially support said inside edges thereof.
33. A table as set forth in claim 32, wherein:
- said center post member has a height greater than the height of said outrigger post member, such that at least an upper portion of said center beam member protrudes vertically above said first and second worksurfaces.
34. A table as set forth in claim 33, wherein:
- said mounting slots on said center beam member are disposed vertically above said first and second worksurfaces; and including
- a plurality of accessories detachably retained in said mounting slots on said center beam member.
35. A method for making a table: comprising:
- forming a rigid, elongate center beam member with first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a predetermined length therebetween;
- forming rigid first and second center post members with lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends thereof configured for operable connection with the first and second ends of the center beam member;
- forming rigid first and second outrigger beam members with outer ends thereof, and inner ends thereof configured for operable connection with opposite sides of the first center post member;
- forming rigid first and second outrigger post members with lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends thereof configured for operable connection with the outside ends of the first and second outrigger beam members;
- forming first and second elongate worksurfaces with predetermined lengths thereof generally commensurate with the predetermined length of the center beam member, and including inside edges, end segments and outside edges;
- detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second center post members with the first and second ends of the center beam member to support the center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface;
- positioning the first and second outrigger beam members on opposite sides of the center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith;
- detachably connecting the inner ends of the first and second outrigger beam members with opposite sides of the first center post member;
- positioning the first and second outrigger post members on the opposite sides of the center beam member adjacent the first center post member;
- detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members with the outer ends of the first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize the table;
- positioning the first and second worksurfaces along the opposite sides of the center beam member with the inside edges thereof extending generally parallel and adjacent to the opposite sides of the center beam member, the end segments thereof positioned adjacent to the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members, and the outside edges thereof protruding outwardly from the first and second outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the first and second worksurfaces;
- detachably connecting at least a portion of the inside edges of the first and second worksurfaces with the center beam member to at least partially support the same thereon; and
- abuttingly engaging at least a portion of the end segments of the first and second worksurfaces with the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members to at least partially support the same thereon.
36. A method as set forth in claim 35, including:
- forming rigid third and fourth outrigger beam members with outer ends thereof, and inner ends thereof configured for operable connection with opposite sides of the second center post member;
- forming rigid third and fourth outrigger post members with lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends thereof configured for operable connection with the outside ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam members;
- positioning the third and fourth outrigger beam members on opposite sides of the center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith;
- detachably connecting the inner ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam members with opposite sides of the second center post member;
- positioning the third and fourth outrigger post members on the opposite sides of the center beam member adjacent the second center post member; and
- detachably connecting the upper ends of the third and fourth outrigger post members with the outer ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam members to stabilize the table.
37. A method as set forth in claim 36, including:
- abuttingly engaging at least a portion of the end segments of the first and second worksurfaces with the upper ends of the third and fourth outrigger post members to at least partially support the same thereon.
38. A method for making a table; comprising:
- forming a plurality of rigid, elongate center beam members with first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a variety of different predetermined lengths therebetween;
- forming rigid first and second center post members with lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends thereof configured for operable connection with the first and second ends of an associated one of the center beam members;
- forming rigid first and second outrigger beam members with outer ends thereof, and inner ends thereof configured for operable connection with opposite sides of the first center post member;
- forming rigid first and second outrigger post members with lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends thereof configured for operable connection with the outside ends of the first and second outrigger beam members;
- forming a plurality of pairs of elongate worksurfaces with a variety of different predetermined lengths generally commensurate with the predetermined lengths of the center beam members, and including inside edges, end segments and outside edges;
- selecting one of the center beam members with a predetermined length generally commensurate with the desired length of the table;
- detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second center post members with the first and second ends of the one center beam member to support the one center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface;
- positioning the first and second outrigger beam members on opposite sides of the one center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith;
- detachably connecting the inner ends of the first and second outrigger beam members with opposite sides of the first center post member;
- positioning the first and second outrigger post members on the opposite sides of the one center beam member adjacent the first center post member;
- detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members with the outer ends of the first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize the table;
- selecting one pair of the worksurfaces with predetermined lengths substantially commensurate with the predetermined length of the one center beam member;
- positioning the first and second worksurfaces along the opposite sides of the center beam member with the inside edges thereof extending generally parallel and adjacent to the opposite sides of the center beam member, the end segments thereof positioned adjacent to the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members, and the outside edges thereof protruding outwardly from the first and second outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the first and second worksurfaces;
- detachably connecting at least a portion of the inside edges of the first and second worksurfaces with the center beam member to at least partially support the same thereon; and
- abuttingly engaging at least a portion of the end segments of the first and second worksurfaces with the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members to at least partially support the same thereon.
39. A method as set forth in claim 38, including:
- forming rigid third and fourth outrigger beam members with outer ends thereof, and inner ends thereof configured for operable connection with opposite ends of the second center post member;
- forming rigid third and fourth outrigger post members with lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends thereof configured for operable connection with the outside ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam members;
- positioning the third and fourth outrigger beam members on opposite sides of the one center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith;
- detachably connecting the inner ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam members with opposite sides of the second center post member;
- positioning the third and fourth outrigger post members on the opposite sides of the one center beam member adjacent the second center post member; and
- detachably connecting the upper ends of the third and fourth outrigger post members with the outer ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam members to stabilize the table.
40. A method as set forth in claim 39, including:
- abuttingly engaging at least a portion of the end segments of the first and second worksurfaces with the upper ends of the third and fourth outrigger post members to at least partially support the same thereon.
Type: Application
Filed: Apr 27, 2006
Publication Date: Nov 1, 2007
Applicant:
Inventors: Karl Mead (East Grand Rapids, MI), John Hamilton (Grand Rapids, MI), James Ludwig (East Grand Rapids, MI)
Application Number: 11/412,969
International Classification: A47B 37/00 (20060101);