SCREEN

Abstract

The present invention relates to a screen e.g. (50) with variable visibility. The screen has various regions (a)-(d). Each region (a)-(d) of the screen (50) provides a different level of possible visibility, which allows for different levels of interactivity between people positioned either side of the screen. Where a high degree of interactivity is required a person can utilise particular regions of the screen (50), and where low or no degree of interactivity is desired other regions of the screen (50) can be utilised.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to screens to provide partitioning. The invention can provide partitioning for workstation systems, although is not restricted to just this application.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTION

Offices and other working environments typically provide workstation systems on which the workers in the environment can carry out their tasks. A workstation system usually comprises a number of individual workstations, each adapted to be used by a single worker. The workstations are arranged in side-by-side adjacent and opposing back-to-back relationships so that a number of workstations for use by a number of workers can be installed in a compact space.

As each worker carrying out their task at a workstation is in close proximity to a neighbouring worker, this can cause problems with privacy. Typically, screens are placed in front and to the side of workers to enclose them in their workstation area. While providing a degree of privacy, the drawback of doing so is that it is difficult to communicate with neighbouring workers when required.

Partitioning can also be used in a standalone arrangement. Similar drawbacks are present.

An object of their present invention is to provide a screen that provides a degree of privacy but can also facilitate communication where, required, or at least to provide the public with the useful choice.

In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated otherwise, reference to such external documents or such sources of information is not to be construed as an admission that such documents or such sources of information, in any jurisdiction, are prior art or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.

It is intended that reference to a range of numbers disclosed herein (for example, 1 to 10) also incorporates reference to all rational numbers within that range (for example, 1, 1.1, 2, 3, 3.9, 4, 5, 6, 6.5, 7, 8, 9 and 10) and also any range of rational numbers within that range (for example, 2 to 8, 1.5 to 5.5 and 3.1 to 4.7) and, therefore, all sub-ranges of all ranges expressly disclosed herein are hereby expressly disclosed. These are only examples of what is specifically intended and all possible combinations of numerical values between the lowest value and the highest value enumerated are to be considered to be expressly stated in this application in a similar manner.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

In one aspect the present invention may be said to consist in a screen for separating a user from visual events on an opposite side of the screen, the screen comprising at least a first region and a second region, each region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, and the first region having a first ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions, the second region having a second ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions, wherein the first ratio is less than the second ratio, wherein the first ratio provides a first screen region that is sufficiently translucent or opaque to prevent visual events on the opposite side of the screen distracting a user when the user is not focusing on or through the first region, but also provides partial visibility through the screen when the user focuses through the first region, and wherein the second ratio provides a second region that is sufficiently transparent when the user focuses through the second region to provide visibility through the second region that is better than the partial visibility provided by the first region.

Preferably the regions are positioned adjacent on the screen.

Preferably the second region facilitates visual, audible and/or physical interaction between the user and another person on the opposite side of the screen.

Preferably the screen comprises a third region, the third region being substantially transparent and positioned to enable the user to view visual events occurring on the other side of the screen.

Preferably the third region is smaller in area than the first and second regions.

Preferably the third region is positioned in an inner portion of the screen.

Preferably the first region is positioned at an upper portion on a first lateral side of the screen, and the second region is positioned at an upper portion on a second lateral side of the screen, and the third region is positioned within the second region adjacent a boundary of the first and second regions.

Preferably in use, the screen is arranged such that the first region is positioned between the user and the likely position of distracting visual events on the opposite side of the screen.

Preferably in use, the screen is arranged such that the second region is positioned between the user and one or more other people or objects on the opposite side of the screen with which the user may want to interact.

Preferably in use, the screen is arranged such that the third region is positioned between the user and one or more other people or objects on the opposite side of the screen with which the user may want to interact.

Preferably the screen comprises a fourth region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, the fourth region positioned below the first and second regions and the fourth region having a third ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions, wherein the fourth ratio is larger than the first and second ratios, and wherein the fourth ratio provides a fourth region that is sufficiently transparent when the user focuses through the fourth region to provide visibility that is better than the partial visibility provided by the first region.

Preferably fourth region facilitates visual, audible and/or physical interaction between the user and another person on the opposite side of the screen.

Preferably the fourth region is positioned along a bottom portion of the first second regions when positioned adjacent on upper lateral sides of the screen.

Preferably in use positioned between adjacent workstations, the screen is arranged such that the fourth region is positioned adjacently proximate a surface of the user's workstation and between an adjacent workstation to provide the user with at least partial visibility of a surface of the adjacent workstation.

Preferably the screen comprises a fourth and third region, the third region being substantially transparent and positioned to enable the user to view visual events occurring on the other side of the screen.

Preferably the third region is smaller in area than the first and second regions.

Preferably the third region is positioned in an inner portion of the screen.

Preferably the first region is positioned at an upper portion on a first lateral side of the screen, and the second region is positioned at an upper portion on a second lateral side of the screen, and the third region is positioned within the second region adjacent the boundary of the first and second regions.

Preferably the translucent or opaque portions are formed from a solid material that is fully or substantially opaque or translucent such that events viewed through the translucent or opaque portions are at least partially obscured.

Preferably the translucent or opaque portions of each region are formed as one or more patterns.

Preferably the translucent or opaque portions of each region are formed as irregular patterns.

Preferably the translucent or opaque portions of each region are distributed irregularly throughout the respective regions.

Preferably the transparent portions are formed of free space.

Preferably the transparent portions are formed of a transparent material

Preferably the screen comprises two or more first regions.

Preferably the screen comprises two or more second regions.

Preferably the screen comprises two or more third regions.

Preferably the screen comprises two or more fourth regions.

Preferably the first ratio is between 20%-40%

Preferably the second ratio is between 40%-60%

Preferably the third ratio is between 60%-80%

Preferably the first and second regions are equal in size.

Preferably the area of the first and second regions are each ⅓ of the total area of the screen.

Preferably the area of the fourth region is 1/9 of the total area of the screen.

Preferably the area of the third region is between 0.28 and 0.5 of the total area of the screen.

Preferably the proportions and positions of the first, second third and fourth regions are as shown in the templates depicted in one of FIGS. 1, 2a-2d, 3a-3c and 4a-4c.

Optionally the screen is that as shown in FIG. 5.

Optionally the screen is that as shown in FIG. 8.

Optionally the screen is that as shown in FIG. 10.

Optionally the screen is that as shown in FIG. 11.

Preferably the screen is adapted for use with one or more workstations, wherein the screen comprises a base adapted to attach the screen proximate to a back edge or a side edge of a workstation desktop.

Preferably the screen comprises a base, the base comprising couplings for coupling the screen to a workstation.

Preferably the couplings comprise one or more protrusions for coupling into a corresponding coupling of a workstation.

Preferably the screen comprises a base adapted to support the screen on the ground.

Preferably the screen is adapted to be coupled to another screen.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to consist in a workstation system comprising two or more adjacent desktops arranged in an opposing relationship along respective back edges, and at least one screen disposed adjacent the back edges between the desktops, wherein the screen comprises at least a first region and a second region, each region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, and the first region having a first ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions, the second region having a second ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions, wherein the first ratio is less than the second ratio, and wherein the first ratio provides a first screen region that is sufficiently translucent or opaque to prevent visual events on the opposite side of the screen distracting a user when the user is not focusing on or through the first region, but also provides partial visibility through the screen when the user focuses through the first region, and wherein the second ratio provides a second region that is sufficiently transparent when the user focuses through the second region to provide visibility through the second region that is better than the partial visibility provided by the first region.

Preferably the screen further comprises a third region, the third region being substantially transparent and positioned to enable the user to view visual events occurring on the other side of the screen.

Preferably the screen is arranged such that: the first region is positioned between respective users of each desktop such that it at least partially blocks the usual activities of each user from the other user, the second region is positioned between respective users of each desktop such that each user can interact visually; audibly and/or physically through the second region, and the third region is positioned between respective users such that each user can interact visually, audible and/or physically through the third region.

Preferably the third region is positioned to provide each user with visibility of the other user's face.

Preferably two screens are disposed adjacent the back edges between the desktops.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to consist in a workstation system comprising two or more adjacent desktops arranged in a side-by-side relationship along respective side edges, and at least one screen disposed adjacent the side edges between the desktops, wherein the screen comprises at least a first region and a second region, each region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, and the first region having a first ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions, the second region having a second ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions, wherein the first ratio is less than the second ratio, and wherein the first ratio provides a first screen region that is sufficiently translucent or opaque to prevent visual events on the opposite side of the screen distracting a user when the user is not focusing on or through the first region, but also provides partial visibility through the screen when the user focuses through the first region, and wherein the second ratio provides a second region that is sufficiently transparent when the user focuses through the second region to provide visibility through the second region that is better than the partial visibility provided by the first region.

Preferably the screen further comprises a fourth region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, the fourth region positioned below the first and second regions and the fourth region having a third ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions, wherein the fourth ratio is larger than the first and second ratios, and wherein the fourth ratio provides a fourth region that is sufficiently transparent when the user focuses through the fourth region to provide visibility through the fourth region that is better than the partial visibility provided by the first region.

Preferably the screen is arranged such that: the first region is positioned between respective users of each desktop such that it at least partially blocks the usual activities of each user from the other user, the second region is positioned between respective users of each desktop such that each user can interact visually, audibly and/or physically through the second region, and the fourth region is positioned adjacently proximate and between respective surfaces of the users' desktops such that each user can interact visually, audibly and/or physically through the fourth region.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to consist in a screen for separating a user from visual events on an opposite side of the screen, the screen comprising at least a first region and a second region, each region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, wherein the openness of the second region is greater than the openness of the first region to provide a region through which interactivity can take place.

In another aspect the present invention may be said to consist in a screen for separating a user from visual events on an opposite side of the screen, the screen comprising at least a first region and a second region, the first region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, wherein the openness of the second region is greater than the openness of the first region to provide a region through which interactivity can take place.

The term “comprising” as used in this specification means “consisting at least in part of”. When interpreting each statement in this specification that includes the term “comprising”, features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as “comprise” and “comprises” are to be interpreted in the same manner.

To those skilled in the art to which the invention relates, many changes in construction and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. The disclosures and the descriptions herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.

Where specific integers are mentioned herein which have known equivalents in the art to which this invention relates, such known equivalents are deemed to be incorporated herein as if individually set forth.

The invention consists in the foregoing and also envisages constructions of which the following gives examples only.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Preferred embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings, of which:

FIG. 1 shows in schematic form a template for designing a variable visibility screen comprising different regions,

FIG. 2a-2d show alternative templates based on FIG. 1 but adapted for different sizes of screen,

FIGS. 3a-3c show alternative templates,

FIGS. 4a-4c show alternative templates,

FIG. 5 shows a possible embodiment of a screen,

FIG. 6 shows screens installed in a workstation system,

FIG. 7 shows freestanding screens,

FIG. 8 shows another possible embodiment of a screen,

FIG. 9 shows a screen module for installation at a workstation,

FIG. 10 shows another possible embodiment of a screen,

FIG. 11 shows another possible embodiment of a screen, and

FIG. 12 shows a screen used in a preferred workstation system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The invention relates to a screen e.g. 50 for use with workstation system 60, such as shown schematically in FIG. 6. A screen according to the invention can also be used in freestanding configurations. The screen is not solely restricted for use in office environments, or solely with workstations. It could be implemented in a range of applications where pardoning is required. Each region of the screen provides a different level of possible visibility, which allows for different levels of interactivity between people positioned either side of the screen. Where a high degree of interactivity is required a person can utilise particular regions of the screen, and where low or no degree of interactivity is desired other regions of the screen can be utilised.

In general the screen can provide two basic functions, it primarily acts as a visual blocker between parties to provide a degree of privacy or to prevent distraction, and secondly is a point for brief interactions between two parties. In general, when a user is doing focused work at his or her desktop, the eye can rest on particular regions of the screen in order to block out visual events or other distractions such as movement occurring on the other side of the screen. However, when a user needs to interact with another person on the other side of the screen, they can simply refocus through other suitable regions of the screen to make eye contact or to observe objects and events on the other side.

The degree of interactivity provided by each region predominantly is determined by visibility through that region. The visibility or perceived visibility through a region is dependent on a person's focal point and/or direction of attention or focus when using that region. The level of interactivity can relate to audible and physical interactivity also.

FIG. 1 shows in schematic form a possible template 1 showing the general regions (a)-(d) of a screen according to one embodiment. This template can be used as a guide to create particular embodiments of a screen in accordance with the invention, such as the embodiments 50, 80, 100, 110 shown in FIGS. 5 and 8-11 and as will be described later. The template 1 is not an actual screen that would be used. It indicates the various regions of a screen. The screen itself can be of any suitable size and shape for the application for which it is used. Particular dimensions are shown in FIG. 1, however these are exemplary only. The invention should not be considered to be restricted to a screen of just these dimensions. Other possible dimensions are shown in FIGS. 2a-2d. The screen can have up to four different regions (a)-(d), each designed to provide a different level of interactivity.

Referring to FIG. 1, the regions are: (a)—immediate periphery, (b)—transition, (c)—lower screen, (d)—optimum viewing. The four regions (a)-(d) have corresponding ratios of opened to closed space that reflects the need for visual blockage or visual openness. Exemplary dimensions are shown in FIG. 1. these show the relative dimensions for one possible template. It will be appreciated that it is not essential that the template has these dimensions, or the same relative sizes between regions. The regions, their sizes and relative sizes can all be adapted as required for a particular end application. In use, a screen e.g. 50, 80, 100 or 110 will be positioned such that each of the regions are arranged in the appropriate space to facilitate the desired degree of interactivity through the screen. This will be described in further detail later with respect to FIG. 6.

The screen (e.g. 50 shown in FIG. 5) is for providing selective blocking and access to visual events that occur on the other side of the screen, which may or may not be distracting or may or may not be of interest to the person sitting at one side of the screen. It will be appreciated that the screen is two way and therefore the various regions of the screen operate in the same manner irrespective of which side a user sits of the screen.

Referring to FIG. 5, which shows a possible embodiment of a screen 50, the screen comprises a pattern 52 that extends over at least some of the regions (a)-(d) shown in template 1. The pattern comprises one or more translucent or opaque portions 51 and one or more transparent portions 53. Opaque portions 51 provide a complete block to light, while translucent portions allow diffuse light through so that objects are not clearly visible. A screen might have solely a translucent or opaque pattern, or a pattern comprising a combination of opaque/translucent portions. The pattern 52 in this case is solely opaque. The transparent portions 53 allow light through unabated so that objects viewed through these portions are clearly visible. The translucent/opaque portions 51 can be made from any suitable material such as plastics, metals, woods and the like. The transparent portions 53 can be clear open space, or a transparent material such as glass or plastic. Preferably, however, the transparent portions are open space to permit sound to travel through and also to enable physical interactivity, if desired. It will be appreciated that the opaque/translucent portions 51 of the pattern 52 may be preferably contiguous, although they could be non-contiguous. It will also be appreciated that the transparent portions 53 could be contiguous or non-contiguous depending on the configuration of the translucent/opaque portions. Where contiguous there will be a single opaque/translucent or transparent portion. Where non-contiguous, there are multiple portions. In this specification the terms “portion” and “portions” can be used interchangeably to mean all of a opaque/translucent or transparent part of a pattern.

Referring jointly to FIGS. 1 and 3, the portion of the pattern 52 occurring within the periphery region (a) has a ratio of between 20-40% of the area of the transparent portion or portions to the area of translucent/opaque portion or portions 51.

This first ratio of transparent 53 to translucent/opaque portions 51 allows for some blocking of visual events behind the screen thereby reducing distractions. Where the user is focused in the foreground of the immediate periphery region (a), for example when they are focussing on a computer monitor or on reading, their focus will be such that they do not see clearly through the immediate periphery portion (a). Therefore, visual events occurring on the other side of the screen 53 will be less evident or distracting. However, if the user wishes to focus on or through the immediate periphery region (a) there will be some partial visibility through that region (a) such that the user might be able to see some visual events occurring the other side to a certain degree.

Visual events might be, for example, another person carrying out tasks. Visual events can also more generally cover any static or dynamic objects or other physical, visual and audible occurrences.

The portion of pattern 52 that occurs within transition region (b) has a ratio of between 40-60% of the area of the transparent portions 53 to the area of the translucent/opaque portions 51. This ratio provides a greater degree of visibility through this region (b) of the screen than the immediate periphery region (a). Where a user may want to interact with another person behind the screen or visually focus on objects or events on the other side, transition region (b) provides a greater or better degree of visibility than the immediate periphery region (a). It therefore provides an interactive area whereby a person can interact visually, audibly and/or physically through the screen with people and events taking place on the other side of the screen.

The pattern 52 in the lower screen region (c) has a ratio of between 60-80% of the area of the transparent portions 53 to the area of the translucent/opaque portions 51. Preferably, this part of the screen, when used in a workstation environment, provides a division just above the respective work surfaces of adjacent users. This provides a portion (c) between respective users' stationery, work, personal items and the like. However, the ratio of this region (c), which is larger than that for the transition region (b) and immediate periphery region (a) allows visibility such that a user can see work, items and the like on a desktop adjacent. This may enable a user to assess whether further interactivity is required through one of the other regions e.g. (b) or (d).

Preferably an optimum viewing region (d) is completely free of any translucent/opaque pattern. That is, it is fully transparent. This area provides a fully interactive region whereby users can converse and engage visually, audibly, and/or physically through the region. It also provides preferably an unobstructed view of a user on the other side of the screen to facilitate good communication.

The screen is also provided with a base (e), which assists with floor or desktop mounting. This will be described further in relation to FIGS. 6 and 7.

In a preferred embodiment, and of particular use where the screen is used as a partition for workstations systems, the regions (a)-(d) are arranged as shown in FIG. 1. The immediate periphery (a) and transition regions (b) are provided on top lateral sides in an adjacent arrangement as shown. In FIG. 1, the immediate periphery region (a) is on the top left hand side and the transition region is on the top right hand side. It will be appreciated that these positions could be reversed, such as when a user is looking at the screen from the reserve side. The lower screen region (c) is positioned below and extends across the bottom edges of the upper immediate periphery (a) and transition (b) regions. The base (e) extends entirely across the bottom portion of the screen.

The optimum viewing region (d) is preferably positioned somewhere in an inner region of the screen, possibly within a general central region, although not necessary in the actual centre of the screen. In a preferred embodiment, the optimum viewing region (d) is positioned within the transition region (b) adjacent the boundary between the transition region (b) and the immediate periphery region (a). It will be appreciated that when referring to the transition region (b) in cases where there is an optimum region (d), this may be generally or at least partially be within the transition region (b).

Referring to FIG. 1, exemplary dimensions will now be provided for the regions (a)-(d). It will be appreciated that the invention is not restricted to such dimensions, but they are provided to give an indication of the typical proportions. A screen used in a workstation system might have an overall dimension of 450 mm×600 mm. The periphery (a) and transition regions (b) are preferably square and of equal size, both being 300 mm×300 mm. The areas of the transition region (b) and periphery region (a) are one third of the total area of the screen. Note, this does not take into account that region (d) can be situated within region (b). In this case the actual area of transition region (b) will be reduced by the area of region (d).

Lower screen region (c) has dimensions of 150 mm×600 mm and forms approximately one ninth of the overall screen area. The optimum viewing region (d) can be between 75-90 mm×100-150 mm and can take up between 0.28 and 0.5 of the total area of the screen. The base (e) has a dimension of 50 mm×600 mm.

It will be appreciated that the various dimensions and proportions of each of the regions could be altered. These are the preferred dimensions as determined through experimentation. Referring to FIGS. 2a-2d, various other proportions and sizes of regions could be provided where the overall screen size is different. FIGS. 2a-2d show possible templates 20-23 for a screen design for screens of sizes 450 mm×600 mm; 450 mm×900 mm; 600 mm×600 mm; and 600 mm×900 mm respectively.

It will be appreciated that while the screen templates 1, 20-23 shown in FIGS. 1, 2a-2d comprise four variable visibility regions (a)-(d) it is not necessary for all regions to be used in a particular screen. For example, referring to FIGS. 3a-3c just regions (a) and (b) could be used (FIG. 3a), which would provide an interactive region (b) and a blocking region (a). Such an arrangement could be optionally augmented with a lower screen region (c) where appropriate (FIG. 3c). This may be in a situation where direct face to face interaction is not required, but some knowledge of the work surface of an adjacent user might be desirable. Alternatively, regions (a), (b) and (d) could be used in combination where knowledge of an adjacent work surface is not required, but interactive direct face contact is desired (FIG. 3b). Other combinations of regions (a), (b), (c), (d) could be used, as desired.

The screen templates shown in FIGS. 1, to 2a-2d have dimensions suitable for use as partitions in workstation systems. Where the partitions may be used as standing partitions, for example at standing workstations or even in standing environments without workstations, larger more suitable dimensions could be used. For example, such a screen might have a height of 1200 mm and be of suitable width. In this case the dimensions of the regions (a)-(d) would be adjusted accordingly. Also, preferably, in the standing embodiment only regions (a) and (b) might be used. There would be no requirement in this case for a lower screen region (c). The optimum viewing region (d) might not be required. To conduct face-to-face interactivity, someone could simply move or walk to the other side of the screen. However, in one possible embodiment an optimum viewing region (d) could be provided in a freestanding screen. In either case, a large proportion of the screen might be opaque to prevent viewing below shoulder or waist height. Clearly, regions (a) and (b) could extend below this level though, if required. The large opaque region might be integrally formed with the base (e) in this case.

FIG. 5 shows one possible screen 50 comprising a pattern 52 that corresponds to a template described above, such as that described in relation to FIG. 1. In this case, the screen 50 is a desktop screen, although it would be appreciated that a similar pattern 52 could be applied to a screen for other applications. As noted earlier the pattern 52 comprises translucent/opaque portions 51, (which in this case are opaque), and transparent portions 53. In this embodiment the opaque portions 51 formed of a suitable solid material such as plastics, wood or metal, and the transparent portions 53 are gaps. Each of the regions (a)-(d) of the screen 50 are generally indicated. As can be seen, the periphery region (a) has a pattern 52 with a low transparent portion area to opaque portion are ratio; the transition area (b) has a higher transparent portion area to opaque portion area ratio; the optimum viewing region (d) is completely clear of any opaque pattern, and the lower screen (c) also has a suitable ratio of transparent to opaque portion areas. The base (e) is completely opaque.

In this instance the pattern 52 is formed of a branch and leaf arrangement. While the pattern 52 could take any suitable form that meets the requirements of the chosen template e.g. 1, there are some preferable (although not essential) features of the pattern 52. First, preferably the opaque portions 51 of the pattern are not geometric or regular, but rather more random in shape and preferably randomly or irregularly placed throughout the various regions (a)-(d). For example, to meet the required ratio of a particular region, it is preferable that the opaque portions 51 are spread unevenly and are of a “chunky” and non-regular nature. That is, the features, such as the leaves in FIG. 5 are not “fine” or regular. Some degree of irregular shape of a reasonable size is desirable. This is preferable to having opaque portions spread evenly through the region to achieve the desired opaqueness ratio. The elements 51 of the pattern, such as the leaves 51, however could be of any suitable size. This assists in reducing the focus of user through the screen.

Referring to the templates in FIGS. 4a, 4b it should be noted that while the screen 50 has been described in relation to the template 1 as a single screen, in use two such screens could be joined together. For example, this might occur in use in a workstation system along the back edge where a larger lateral area needs partioning, or similarly in a freestanding arrangement. In this case, two screens might be arranged together side-by-side. The template is shown in FIG. 4a, or alternatively where appropriate one turned around such that two abut each other in a mirror image arrangement. The template of this arrangement is shown in FIG. 4b. The actual configuration would depend on the application, and in particular where various regions need placement. Details of such arrangements will be described later with reference to FIG. 6.

The screens arranged as above would be suitable for use in a modular system. However, in another alternative, a single screen could be provided that is the equivalent of two screens placed side to side. The corresponding template is also shown in FIG. 4c. In this case the various regions are the same as those described for FIG. 1 or similar, however the regions have been replicated. In this case immediate periphery (a) and lower screen (c) regions are formed as respective larger region.

It will be appreciated that the various regions (a)-(d) have been arranged in the manner shown as this configuration provides screens that are particularly suitable for use in workstations environments. It will be appreciated where requirements differ, the various regions (a)-(d) may be rearranged as required, to provide the interactive portions and low visibility portions where needed. Screens could be also adjoined in any suitable manner. The size of each region (a)-(d) could also be altered as required. Following from this, it will be appreciated that the particular arrangements of regions shown in FIGS. 1, 2a-2d, 3a-3c, 4a-4c could be altered if required. Not all combinations and permutations are shown. The important feature is that regions of different opaqueness ratios are provided to provide for different degrees of interactivity through various portions. It should also be noted that more than one of each region type (a)-(d) could be used in a screen.

Use of the screen in a workstation system will now be described with reference to FIG. 6. This Figure generically shows a typical workstation system 60 (the desktops of the workstations are only shown, for clarity) comprising four workstations 60a-60b. Clearly, the screens could be used in workstations systems comprising more or less than four workstations. Screens such as those described can be placed between side-by-side adjacent desks e.g. 61, and also along the back edges between desks e.g. 62a-62d. The screens 62a-62d are the embodiment 80 shown in FIG. 8. The regions are generally indicated on screens 62a, 62d. In the case of providing screens along the back edges, two screens 62a, 62b and 62c, 62d might be provided in a side-by-side arrangement to provide a suitable span, or alternatively a single long screen might be used (not shown). The screens provide partitioning to provide at least some degree of privacy for individual workers at their workstations. Screen 62d is shown being installed in the desktop.

The screens 62a-62d are arranged on the workstations 60a-60d such that the various regions (a)-(d) are positioned at a suitable points to provide the desired degree of interactivity and privacy. How they are arranged will be dependent on particular factors and also the actual arrangement of regions on the screen. The factors comprise: where users normally sit in a workstation, where equipment such as desktop computers 63 reside, where working papers, books and other stationery are and where the user is in relation to other users at their respective workstations.

By way of example, referring to the first workstation 60a, a user sits generally in a central position labelled x and uses a computer and computer monitor 63 is positioned in a central region as shown. They might have working papers to one side of them. Users in the workstations opposite 60d and adjacent 60b might have a similar set up (not shown for clarity). In this case the screens 62a, 62b are arranged such that two mirror imaged screens are placed side-by-side such that the peripheral regions (a) is generally central in the workstation behind the computer screen 63. The periphery region (a) provides the greatest degree of opaqueness/translucency, which provides shielding from distraction for visual events on the other side when the user does not focus on or through the screen 62a, 62b. The regions (a) are therefore placed in the centre of the workstation behind the monitor 63 of the user and in the general region of where they conduct the majority of their work. When working on the computer 63 or in a general manner the user's focus and attention will be in the foreground of the workstation 60a. With the region (a) positioned behind the computer screen in the central region of the desk 60a, this provides a partition that prevents distraction from visual events occurring on the other side of the screen 62a, 62b. The nature of the regions (a) of the screens combined with the close focal distance and attention of the user generally prevents visual events and distractions from the other side of the screen being noticeable.

However, if the user desires they can stare through the screens 62a, 62b and at least have partial visibility and some interactivity with objects, people and events on the other side. Regions (b) are positioned either side of the computer monitor 63 and central area. These regions have a lesser degree of opaqueness and therefore visual events occurring through them are more noticeable to the user. However, because the regions (b) are placed on the periphery of the central area of the workstation 63, and during use the worker has their focus at the foreground, they will not be unduly distracted or disturbed by visual events occurring the other side of region (b) of the screen. However, if the user decides they want to interact with a user on the other side of the screen opposite to them, they can use either of regions (b) on their left or right to conduct interactivity. The nature of the opaqueness of regions (b) enables users to focus through the screen and allow visual interactivity. It also allows audible and physically interactivity through this portion if required. Region (b) is suitable for brief interactions, or to gain the attention of a user on the other side to determine if further interactivity is required.

If the user decides they want a full interactivity they can then revert to using the optimum viewing region (d). In this situation, preferably the full face of the person on the other side of the screen is visible, which facilitates better communication. Alternatively, enough of the face is visible to allow communication. The size and position of the optimum viewing region (d) has been determined through experimentation of how much of a person's face a user needs to see in order to feel comfortable communicating with them. The x and y preferred position (as shown in FIG. 1) of the optimum viewing spot is determined by an average user's sitting height. The depth of desk might also best considered in determining the size of the optimum viewing region (d) and the exact position of it.

Preferably the optimum viewing region (d) is placed with its centre 200 mm below the top of the screen and 60 mm to one side of the boundary between the periphery (a) and transient regions (b).

The lower screen region (c) is placed so that it is adjacent in between respective work surfaces 60a, 60d at the back edge. The opaqueness ratio of this area enables a user to view the work occurring on the other side of the screen, to make an assessment of whether further interactivity is required. As region (c) is in a low activity area, the visual events occurring behind the lower screen region (c) should not overly distract or disturb a person working in the usual central portion of the desktop 60a.

Where a user or users utilise different parts of the desktop or carry out tasks in a different manner to that described above, the screens 62a, 62b can be arranged so the various regions (a)-(d) are in different places where they can be utilised more effectively. Alternatively the actual arrangement of the regions on the screen e.g. 62a itself might be different. Screens 62c, 62d are arranged in a similar manner in respect of workstations 60b, 60c.

Referring now to the screen 61 separating side-by-side workstations 60a, 60b, these operate in a similar manner. Namely the screen 61 is arranged such that the various regions (a)-(d) are positioned in accordance with the position in which work activities are carried out. Preferably region (a) is positioned towards the back edge of the desk 60a. Interactive regions (b) and (d) are towards the front edge of the workstation 60a and facilitate interactive work between two co-workers sitting side-by-side. Similarly region (c) adjacent above and between the work surfaces 60a, 60b provides some viewing of the items on a co-worker's work surface 60b.

The screens 61, 62a-62d are preferably used in a workstation system such as that in the U.S. patent applications 60/828,591 and 60/894,421 “A Workstation” filed on 6 Oct. 2006 and 12 Mar. 2007 respectively with the same assignee. The specifications of these US applications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. FIG. 12 shows how a screen e.g. 120 might be installed in such a workstation system 121.

FIG. 7 shows use of a free standing screen 70, 71. It can be arranged in much the same manner. As noted earlier, the freestanding screen 70, 71 might have a different combination of regions (a)-(d) to suit the nature of work taking place. Alternatively the freestanding screens 70, 71 might sit or stand between workstations (not shown) rather than being supported on or above them. The lower portion of the freestanding screen will be an opaque 72, 73 or similar base portion and the other portion extending above the desktop 74a, 74d may be similar to that described previously.

In one possible embodiment the freestanding screens 70, 71 might be used in a situation where there is a high desktop designed to be worked at in the standing position. Other variations are also possible.

Another possible embodiment of a screen 80 conforming to on of the templates described previously is shown in FIG. 8. The various regions of the screen (a)-(d) are indicated. The modular nature of the screen will be described with reference to FIG. 9. Such a modular screen 90 is adapted to coupled to a workstation system 60 such as that shown in FIG. 6. The modular screen 90 comprises the screen portion 80 and two elongated base portion members 91a, 91b which are adapted to sandwich over the base portion (e). Each base portion member comprises an elongated channel and corresponding aperture (92a, 92b are shown) in each end. The assembly also includes two end caps 93a, 93b comprising a square bracket and two protrusions (94a, 94b, 94c are visible) on or attached to the inside surface of each arm of the square bracket 93a, 93b. The end protrusions 94a-94c are adapted to couple and insert into the end apertures e.g. 92a, 92b and channels of the base members 91a, 91b. To assemble the screen module 90 the base members 91a, 91b are sandwiched onto the base region (e) of the screen 80 and then caps 93a, 93b inserted to retain the assembly in place by friction fit. Each end bracket 93a, 93b also includes a protrusion 95a, 95b which is adapted to insert in corresponding apertures on the workstation on which it is to be installed (see FIG. 6). These might be apertures on the desktop itself, or in framework or some supporting structure that supports the desktops. FIG. 6 shows a modular screen 62d being inserted. It also shows corresponding protrusion 95a, 95b and apertures 65a, 65b in the workstation systems.

FIG. 10 shows another possible embodiment of a screen 100 with the various regions (a)-(d) shown. FIG. 11 shows another possible embodiment 110, with the various regions generally indicated. It will be appreciated that yet other possible embodiments of patterns forming a screen are possible. Any arrangement which conforms to the general template described would be suitable.

Preferred embodiments (or “forms”) of the invention have been described by way of example only and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A screen for separating a user from visual events on an opposite side of the screen, the screen comprising:

at least a first region and a second region, each region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, and

the first region having a first ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions,

the second region having a second ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions,

wherein the first ratio is less than the second ratio,

wherein the first ratio provides a first screen region that is sufficiently translucent or opaque to prevent visual events on the opposite side of the screen distracting a user when the user is not focusing on or through the first region, but also provides partial visibility through the screen when the user focuses through the first region, and

wherein the second ratio provides a second region that is sufficiently transparent when the user focuses through the second region to provide visibility through the second region that is better than the partial visibility provided by the first region.

2. A screen according to claim 1 wherein the regions are positioned adjacent on the screen.

3. A screen according to claim 1 above wherein the second region facilitates visual, audible and/or physical interaction between the user and another person on the opposite side of the screen.

4. A screen according to claim 1 further comprising a third region, the third region being substantially transparent and positioned to enable the user to view visual events occurring on the other side of the screen.

5. A screen according to claim 4 wherein the third region is smaller in area than the first and second regions.

6. A screen according to claim 4 wherein the third region is positioned in an inner portion of the screen.

7. A screen according to claim 4 wherein the first region is positioned at an upper portion on a first lateral side of the screen, and the second region is positioned at an upper portion on a second lateral side of the screen, and the third region is positioned within the second region adjacent a boundary of the first and second regions.

8-10. (canceled)

11. A screen according to claim 1 further comprising a fourth region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, the fourth region positioned below the first and second regions and the fourth region having a third ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions, wherein the fourth ratio is larger than the first and second ratios, and wherein the fourth ratio provides a fourth region that is sufficiently transparent when the user focuses through the fourth region to provide visibility that is better than the partial visibility provided by the first region.

12. A screen according to claim 11 wherein the fourth region facilitates visual, audible and/or physical interaction between the user and another person on the opposite side of die screen.

13. A screen according to claim 11 wherein the fourth region is positioned along a bottom portion of the first and second regions when positioned adjacent on upper lateral sides of the screen.

14-18. (canceled)

19. A screen according to claim 1 wherein the translucent or opaque portions are formed from a solid material that is fully or substantially opaque or translucent such that events viewed through the translucent or opaque portions are at least partially obscured.

20. A screen according to claim 1 wherein the translucent or opaque portions of each region are formed as one or more patterns.

21. A screen according to claim 1 wherein the translucent or opaque portions of each region are formed as irregular patterns.

22. A screen according to claim 1 wherein the translucent or opaque portions of each region are distributed irregularly throughout the respective regions.

23. A screen according to claim 1 wherein the transparent portions are formed of free space.

24. A screen according to claim 1 wherein the transparent portions are formed of a transparent material.

25-28. (canceled)

29. A screen according to claim 1 wherein the first ratio is between 20%-40%.

30. A screen according to claim 1 wherein the second ratio is between 40%-60%.

31. A screen according to claim 4 wherein the third ratio is between 60%-80%.

32-45. (canceled)

46. A workstation system comprising:

two or more adjacent desktops arranged in an opposing relationship along respective back edges, and

at least one screen disposed adjacent the back edges between die desktops, wherein the screen comprises at least a first region and a second region, each region comprising one or more translucent or opaque portions and one or more transparent portions, and

the first region having a first ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions,

the second region having a second ratio corresponding to the area of the one or more transparent portions to the area of the one or more translucent or opaque portions,

wherein the first ratio is less than the second ratio, and

wherein the first ratio provides a first screen region that is sufficiently translucent or opaque to prevent visual events on die opposite side of the screen distracting a user when the user is not focusing on or through the first region, but also provides partial visibility through the screen when the user focuses through the first region, and

wherein the second ratio provides a second region that is sufficiently transparent when the user focuses through the second region to provide visibility through the second region that is better than the partial visibility provided by the first region.

47. A workstation system according to claim 46 wherein the screen further comprises a third region, the third region being substantially transparent and positioned to enable the user to view visual events occurring on the other side of the screen.

48. A workstation system according to claim 47 wherein the screen is arranged such that:

the first region is positioned between respective users of each desktop such that it at least partially blocks the usual activities of each user from the other user,

the second region is positioned between respective users of each desktop such that each user can interact visually, audibly and/or physically through the second region, and

the third region is positioned between respective users such that each user can interact visually, audible and/or physically through the third region.

49. A workstation system according to claim 48 above wherein the third region is positioned to provide each user with visibility of the other user's face.

50. A workstation system according to claim 46 wherein two screens are disposed adjacent the back edges between the desktops.

51-55. (canceled)