WORKSPACE ASSEMBLY

Abstract

A workstation including a first sidewall having a first edge and a second edge. A second sidewall having a first edge and a second edge is spaced apart from the first sidewall. The workstation further includes a desk configured to support the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The desk is a desk movable between a first height and a second height and has a planar upper surface. A panel angled relative to the upper surface of the desk is coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall. An opening is formed by the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the planar upper surface, and the panel. The first and second sidewalls are angled so that the first edge of the first sidewall and the first edge of the second sidewall are closer together than the second edge of the first sidewall and the second edge of the second sidewall.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/266,208 filed Dec. 11, 2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference into this application.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to workspace assemblies, particularly for use in offices. The present disclosure is also related to privacy hoods for use on work surfaces such as tables or desks.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, the disclosure provides a workstation including a first sidewall having a first edge and a second edge. A second sidewall is spaced apart from the first sidewall. The second sidewall has a first edge and a second edge. The workstation further includes a desk configured to support the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The desk is movable between a first height and a second height. The desk has a planar upper surface. A panel is coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall. The panel is angled relative to the planar upper surface of the desk. An opening is formed by the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the planar upper surface, and the panel. The first sidewall and the second sidewall are angled so that the first edge of the first sidewall and the first edge of the second sidewall are closer together than the second edge of the first sidewall and the second edge of the second sidewall.

In another embodiment, the disclosure provides a workstation including an overhead structure having a first sidewall, a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall, and a panel secured to and extending between the first sidewall and the second sidewall so that first sidewall and the second sidewall are secured relative to the panel and the first sidewall is secured relative to the second sidewall. The workstation further includes a desk configured to support the overhead structure. The desk is adjustable between a first height and a second height. The desk has a planar upper surface. The workstation further includes an opening formed between the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the panel, and the planar upper surface.

In yet another embodiment, the disclosure provides an overhead structure for use with a desk having a planar upper surface. The overhead structure includes a first sidewall having a first bottom edge configured to rest on the planar upper surface of the desk and a first upper edge that is obliquely angled relative to the first bottom edge. The overhead structure also includes a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall. The second sidewall has a second bottom edge configured to rest on the planar upper surface of the desk and a second upper edge that is obliquely angled relative to the second bottom edge. The overhead structure further includes a panel secured to the first and second upper edges and extending between the first and second sidewalls. The panel is configured to be spaced from the planar upper surface of the desk so that an uninterrupted opening is formed between the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the panel, and the planar upper surface when the overhead structure is supported on the desk.

Other aspects of the disclosure will become apparent by consideration of the detailed description and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a workspace assembly including a workstation, a first table, a second table, and a chair.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the workstation of FIG. 1 at a first height.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the workstation of FIG. 1 at a second height.

FIG. 4 is a section view of the workstation taken along section line 4-4 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is a front view of the workstation.

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the workstation.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the workstation.

FIG. 8 illustrates the workstation in use.

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of the first table.

FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the first table.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view of the second table.

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the second table.

FIG. 13 illustrates a workstation including a privacy feature.

FIG. 14 illustrates a workstation including another privacy feature.

FIG. 15 illustrates a workstation including yet another privacy feature.

FIG. 16 illustrates a workstation including a hood.

FIG. 17 illustrates a front view of a first hood for use with a workstation.

FIG. 18 illustrates a rear view of the first hood for use with the workstation.

FIG. 19 illustrates a front view of a second hood for use with a workstation.

FIG. 20 a section view of the workstation taken along section line 20-20 of FIG. 7, illustrating power and data distribution through the workstation.

FIG. 21 illustrates a cable guide connecting workstations of two workspace assemblies.

FIG. 22 illustrates another cable guide connecting workstations of two workspace assemblies.

FIG. 23 illustrates yet another cable guide connecting workstations of two workspace assemblies.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of another workstation.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a workstation including another hood.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Before any embodiments of the disclosure are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

In any disclosed embodiment, the terms “substantially”, “approximately”, and “about” may be substituted with “within a percentage of” what is specified, where the percentage includes 0.1, 1, 5, and 10 percent. The terms “angled” and “at an angle” are used to mean a non-zero angle or non-parallel relationship between two components.

FIG. 1 illustrates a workspace assembly 10 including a height adjustable workstation 14, a first table 18, and a second table 22. The first table 18 is a relatively short table and the second table 22 is a relatively tall table. The workstation 14, the first table 18, and the second table 22 are moveable into different configurations as further explained below for use in, for example, an office.

With additional reference to FIGS. 2-6, the workstation 14 includes a desk 30, a first sidewall 34, a second sidewall 38, and a canopy 42. The term “desk” is used generally to refer to a traditional desk or a table or any other furniture item at which a user U (FIG. 7) works or crafts, or is otherwise engaged or productive (collectively, “work”).

The desk 30 includes a desktop 44 supported by a first leg 46 and a second leg 50. The term “desktop” is used generally as a component of the desk 30 that provides a surface for work. The first leg 46 and the second leg 50 are generally vertical and support the desktop 44, first sidewall 34, second sidewall 38, and canopy 42 above a floor. The term “floor” is used generically to mean the ground, flooring, or other surface on which the workspace assembly 10 sits. The first leg 46 and the second leg 50 have adjustable heights so that the desktop 44 is positionable at a first height (FIG. 2) corresponding to a sitting position of a user and a second height corresponding (FIG. 3) corresponding to a standing height of the user. The first leg 46 and the second leg 50 are substantially similar or identical. The first leg 46 includes a first telescoping segment 54, a second telescoping segment 58, a motor 62 (FIG. 4), and shaft 66 (these components are labeled 54′, 58′, 62′, and 66′ for the second leg 50). The second telescoping segment 58 is positioned within the first telescoping segment 54. The shaft 66 is threaded or otherwise engaged with one of the telescoping segments 54, 58, and is coupled to the motor 62. The motor 62 rotates the shaft 66 clockwise or counterclockwise to move the second telescoping segment 58 linearly with respect to the first telescoping segment 54. As the second telescoping segment 58 moves linearly with respect to the first telescoping segment 54, the desktop 44 is raised and lowered (e.g., between a standing position and a seated position of the user U).

With reference to FIG. 6, the desktop 44 includes a work surface 70 facing up, a first side edge 74, a second side edge 78, a front edge 82, and a rear edge 86. The front edge 82 is an edge of the desk 30 closest to a user U working at the desk 30. The work surface 70 provides a work surface on which a user can work and support other objects (e.g., a computer monitor 90, peripheral electronic devices 94, books, office supplies, accessories, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the work surface 70 extends across the entire desktop 44. In other embodiments, the work surface 70 may only extend across a section of the desktop 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the first side edge 74 and second side 78 are non-parallel. Specifically, the first side edge 74 and the second side edge 78 are angled such that the front edge 82 is longer than the rear edge 86. In some embodiments, the angle α (FIG. 6) between the side edges 74, 78 is approximately 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 40 degrees, or 60 degrees.

As shown in FIG. 6, the illustrated desktop 44 also includes openings 98 adjacent the rear edge 86. The openings 98 facilitate running cables through the desktop 44. The openings 98 also provide storage spaces for, for example, office supplies or decorations. In the illustrated embodiment, the desktop 44 includes several openings 98 formed as discrete compartments. In other embodiments, the desktop 44 may include a single, continuous opening extending along the rear edge 86. The desk 30 may include an optional slidable drawer (not shown) moveably coupled to a lower surface (facing downward, opposite the work surface 70) of the desktop 44. In some embodiments, the drawer may be omitted.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1-8, the first and second sidewalls 34, 38 are generally vertical walls that are coupled to the side edges 74, 78 of the desktop 44 and movable with the desktop 44 as its height is adjusted. As a result, the first and second sidewalls 34, 38 are spaced from each other by the width of the desktop 44. With specific reference to FIG. 5, the first sidewall 34 includes a rear edge 118, a front edge 126, and a bottom edge 128, and the second sidewall 38 includes a rear edge 122, a front edge 130, and a bottom edge 132. In FIGS. 1-8, the bottom edges 128, 132 of the first and second sidewalls 34, 38 are below the desktop 44 but above the floor. The portion of the sidewalls 34, 38 extending below the desktop 44 provide some privacy for the workstation user's legs while seated.

Each sidewall 34, 38 includes an inside surface 110 (facing toward the other sidewall) and an outside surface 114 (facing away). Because they are attached to the side edges 74, 78 of the desktop 44, the sidewalls 34, 38 are similarly angled (i.e., at approximately 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 40 degrees, or 60 degrees) relative to each other and the planes of the inside surfaces 110 converge away from the user U. The distance between the rear edges 118, 122 is less than the distance between the front edges 126, 130.

In other embodiments, the inside surfaces 110 may be curved (e.g., concave, twisted, etc.) instead of planar. The inside surfaces 110 may also be multifaceted or otherwise non-planar. The term “plane” in this regard should be interpreted as the best fit of a plane across the inside surface 110 even if the surface is curved, multifaceted or otherwise non-planar. Regardless of the shape of the inside surfaces 110, the sidewalls 34, 38 should present the focus and visual impression of a tunnel, yet still feel like an open workspace to a user U sitting at the desk 30. The impression is of a tunnel that is deeper than the depth of the desk 30. This tunnel effect focuses one's attention on the convergence of the tunnel, where, for example, a monitor is positioned. The absence of a wall or partition directly across from the user U sitting at the desk 30 provides a more open feel for, among other things, airflow and light.

Referring back to FIGS. 5-6, the canopy 42 is coupled to the first and second sidewalls 34, 38 above the desk 30. In the illustrated construction, the canopy 42 connects upper edges of the sidewalls 34, 38 such that the sidewalls 34, 38 and the canopy 42 form an inverted and generally U-shaped overhead structure. The upper edges of the sidewalls 34, 38 and the canopy 42 are also angled relative to the work surface 70 of the desk 30. In particular, the canopy 42 is oriented such that a front edge 134 of the canopy 42 is higher (i.e., spaced further away from the work surface 70) than a rear edge 138 of the canopy 42. The front edge 134 thereby forms an upper edge of the canopy 42, and the rear edge 138 forms a lower edge of the canopy 42. The canopy 42 also has an inner surface 142 that is downward-facing, toward the work surface 70.

Similar to the sidewalls 34, 38, the inner surface 142 of the canopy 42 is planar, but may alternatively be curved (e.g., concave). The plane of the inner surface 142 (or its best planar fit) converges with the plane of the work surface 70 (or its best planar fit) in a direction away from the user U. This convergence furthers the impression of a tunnel that is deeper than the actual depth of the desk 30. The convergence gives the impression of a deeper space and further focuses the attention of a user sitting at the desk 30 on the computer monitor 90. In some embodiments, the canopy 42 is angled approximately 20 degrees, 30 degrees, 40 degrees, or 60 degrees) relative to the work surface 70. In other embodiments, the canopy 42 may be angled approximately 45 degrees relative to the work surface 70.

The angles of the sidewalls 34, 38 and canopy 42 give the user U the impression of a tunnel that ends in an opening 146. The opening 146 is framed by the rear edges 118, 122 of the sidewalls 34, 38, the rear edge 138 of the canopy 42, and the work surface 70. The opening 146 has a width measured between rear edges 118, 122 of the sidewalls 34, 38, and a height measured between the work surface 70 and the rear edge 138 of the canopy 42. In the illustrated embodiment, the width-to-height ratio of the opening 146 is approximately 16:9, but may be larger or smaller in other constructions. The rear edge 138 of the canopy 42 is spaced at most about 28 inches above the work surface 70 of the desk 30. In some embodiments, the rear edge 138 is spaced about 18-28 inches above the work surface 70. In the illustrated embodiment, the rear edge 138 is spaced about 23 inches above the work surface 70.

FIG. 8 illustrates a workstation 14 in use. The opening 146 in the workstation 14 provides more open working environments for users U, compared to a conventional cubicle with three boxed-in walls or offices with modular walls. The canopy 42, however, is spaced above the desk 30 to help users concentrate without being interrupted. For example, if a person P walks past the workstation 14, a shadow of the person P is visible as the person P approaches the opening 146 of the workstation 14. The canopy 42 inhibits the user U sitting at the workstation 14 from making eye contact with the person P walking past. Instead, the user U sitting the workstation 14 only sees the person P′s waist and lower torso through the opening 146. Due to the lack of eye contact, the user U does not feel obligated to stop working and converse with the person P walking past. Productivity of the user U sitting at the workstation 14 is thereby increased compared to open workspaces.

With continued reference to FIG. 8, in the illustrated construction, the sidewalls 34, 38 and the canopy 42 are made of a translucent material. The translucent material allows general shapes to be visible through the sidewalls 34, 38 and canopy 42, but specific details are not visible. The translucence (or opacity) of the sidewalls 34, 38 and canopy 42 should be set so that the user U has a visual awareness of people, things and work that affect behavior. It is equally important that a person P outside the workstation 14 has a visual awareness of the occupancy of the workstation 14 to affect the work and behavior outside of the workstation 14. Materials for the sidewalls 34, 38 and canopy 42 should therefore be chosen to carefully balance the concepts of “open” and “focused” to arrive at the desired user U and person P experience. Such balance should take into account whether the translucence is too low such that forms are undefined or concealed and unrecognizable. On the other hand, the translucence may be too high if forms are visible to a level that details are evident and clear. An example of a well-balanced translucence is when forms are filtered and seen in a foggy or hazy, soft silhouette with significant light diffusion. It may in some applications be desirable to set the translucence such that there is more visual substance and richness for forms 1 foot away than 5 feet away, for example. The material of the sidewalls 34, 38 and canopy 42 may also be given a pattern that is technical or rich when inspected close-up. Alternatively, it is acceptable that the material have no pattern.

In other embodiments, the inside surfaces 110 of the sidewalls 34, 38 and the inner surface 142 of the canopy 42 may be formed by separate panels that are secured to the sidewalls 34, 38 and the canopy 42. The panels add to the performance and/or aesthetics of the sidewalls 34, 38 and the canopy 42. For example, in some embodiments, the panels may be acoustic panels, tackable panels, writable panels, and the like. In such embodiments, the panels may be made of fiberglass, tack board, white board, and the like. In other embodiments, the separate panels may be omitted, and the inside surfaces 110 and the inner surface 142 may be formed directly by the sidewalls 34, 38 and the canopy 42. FIG. 19, for example, includes panels 148 on the sidewalls 34, 38 which may be whiteboards, magnetic panels, cork or pushpin panels, or any other panel type that is useful to the workstation user. The panels 148 may provide additional structural support to the bottom portions of the sidewalls 34, 38.

The desktop 44 and the canopy 42 move together between first and second heights. In some embodiments, the sidewalls 34, 38 may include sliding, telescoping, or accordion-type panels that expand and collapse to change the height of the canopy 42. In addition, the desk 30 may be slidably coupled for movement relative to the sidewalls 34, 38, or may be fixed to the sidewalls 34, 38 to move when the panels of the sidewalls 34, 38 expand or contract. In some embodiments, the size ratio of the openings 146 (e.g., 16:9) remains constant regardless of the position of the desktop 44. Further, adjustment between the first and second positions may be powered by a motor as described above, or may be performed manually.

As shown in FIGS. 13-15, the workstation 14 may include a privacy feature 150 for selectively covering the opening 146 in the workstation 14. The privacy feature 150 includes different types of closures 154 that extend partially or completely across the opening 146 of the workstations 14. In some embodiments, the privacy feature 150 may include blinds, shades, curtains, shutters, sliders, or the like. The closures 154 may move vertically top-down (i.e., from the canopy 42 toward the desktop 44) as shown in FIG. 13, vertically upward (i.e., from the desktop 44 toward the canopy 42) as shown in FIG. 14, or side-to-side (i.e., from one sidewall 34, 38 to the other sidewall 34, 38) as shown in FIG. 15 between an open position and a closed position. Alternatively, the closures 154 may rotate or pivot between open and closed positions, or can be installed in multiple, predefined positions. In some embodiments, movement of the closures 154 may be powered. In other embodiments, the closures 154 may be moved manually. In further embodiments, the closure 154 may include tech glass, such as smart glass, that selectively becomes frosted to reduce visibility through the glass. The translucence or opacity of the closures 154 should be set with similar principals as the translucence or opacity of the sidewalls 34, 38 and canopy 42 described above.

In some embodiments, the workstation 14 may also include one or more lights 156 (FIG. 8) supported by the canopy 42. Such lights may include a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) integrated in the inner surface 142 of the canopy 42. The LEDs may be controlled by a user to change intensity and/or color. In some embodiments, the LEDs may also be programed to illuminate in different patterns or rhythms. Wiring for the lights may be routed through one or both of the sidewalls 34, 38. In other embodiments, the workstation 14 may include other arrays of LEDs, fluorescent, or incandescent lights supported on the underside of the canopy 42.

As shown in FIGS. 5 and 7-8, the workstation 14 further includes a shelf 162 supported by one of the sidewalls 34, 38 (e.g., the first sidewall 34 for illustrative purposes). The shelf 162 is coupled to the inside surface 110 of the first sidewall 34 above the desk 30. The shelf 162 is configured to support accessories, such as portable electronic devices 94 (e.g., smartphones, tablet computers, etc.) or office supplies (e.g., notebooks, pens, etc.), for a user. In the illustrated embodiment, the shelf 162 is adjustable relative to the desk 30. The first sidewall 34 may include slots or holes in the inside surface 110 at different heights or positions. Portions of the shelf 162 may be removably received in the slots or holes to support the shelf 162 at different heights. Corresponding slots may also be formed in the inside surface 110 of the second sidewall 38 so that the shelf 162 can alternatively be supported by the second sidewall 38 or so that a second shelf can be supported by the second sidewall 38.

FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate the first table 18 of the workspace assembly 10. The table 18 includes two legs 170, a tabletop 174, and a shelf area 178. The illustrated legs 170 are planar, rectangular members that are spaced apart from each other to support the table 18 on the ground. In other embodiments, the legs 170 may be curved, circular or any other shape and the illustrated leg shape should not be regarded as limiting. Similar to the sidewalls 34, 38 of the workstation 14, the legs 170 of the table 18 are angled toward each other to generally match the overall shape and contour of the workstation 14. In some embodiments, the legs 170 are angled between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 60 degrees toward each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the legs 170 are each angled approximately 30 degrees toward each other.

The tabletop 174 is coupled to and extends between the legs 170. The tabletop 174 forms an upper surface 176 of the table 18. The upper surface 176 is generally planar and provides space for a user to sit, store objects, rest his/her feet while sitting in a chair, or kneel in front of.

The shelf area 178 is also coupled to and extends between the legs 170 beneath the tabletop 174. The illustrated shelf area 178 extends parallel to the tabletop 174 and is continuous (i.e., uninterrupted) between the legs 170. The shelf area 178 provides an area for a user to store objects. In some embodiments, the shelf area 178 can alternatively be configured with more space, additional walls or dividers, and/or doors to accommodate different user preferences for storing and securing objects. Additionally, the doors may be lockable.

The illustrated first table 18 has an overall height H1. As shown in FIG. 1, the overall height H1 is smaller than a space beneath the desktop 44 of the workstation 14 so that the table 18 can fit under the desk 30 and within a footprint of the workstation 14. In particular, the overall height H1 of the table 18 is less than a distance D1 measured from the floor to the lower surface of the desktop 44.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate the second table 22 of the workspace assembly 10. The table 22 includes two legs 182, a tabletop 186, and a shelf area 190. The illustrated legs 182 are planar, rectangular members that are spaced apart from each other to support the table 22 on the floor. Similar to the sidewalls 34, 38 of the workstation 14, the legs 182 are angled toward each other to generally match the overall shape and contour of the workstation 14. In some embodiments, the legs 182 are angled between approximately 10 degrees and approximately 60 degrees toward each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the legs 182 are each angled approximately 30 degrees toward each other.

The tabletop 186 is coupled to and extends between the legs 182. The tabletop 186 forms an upper surface 188 of the table 22. The upper surface 188 is planar and provides space for a user to store objects or work while standing.

The shelf area 190 is also coupled to and extends between the legs 182 beneath the tabletop 186. The illustrated shelf area 190 extends parallel to the tabletop 186 and is continuous (i.e., uninterrupted) between the legs 182. The shelf area 190 provides an area for a user to store objects. A bottom of the shelf area 190 is also spaced above the floor at a distance D2 that is high enough for the first table 22 to fit under the shelf area 190 and within a footprint of the second table 22. In some embodiments, the shelf area 190 can alternatively be configured with more space, additional walls or dividers, and/or doors to accommodate different user preferences for storing and securing objects. Additionally, the doors may be lockable.

The illustrated second table 22 has an overall height H2. As shown in FIG. 1, the overall height H2 is taller than the space beneath the desk 30 of the workstation 14. Instead, the overall height H2 of the second table 22 is generally equal to a conventional counter height, allowing a user to stand and work at the second table 22.

FIGS. 16-19 illustrate other constructions of a workstation according to the present invention in which various hoods 208, 308, 408 sits on top of the work surface 70 of the desktop 44. The hoods include components analogous to the sidewalls 34, 38 and canopy 42 of the previously described constructions, but which are not mounted to the side edges 74, 78 of the desktop 44. The same reference numbers are used for convenience, it being understood that the desk 30 and desktop 44 in these constructions may be different from those of the previous constructions. Because the sidewalls 34, 38 of the hoods 208, 308, 408 are not mounted to the side edges of the desktop 44, the angle α (FIG. 6) between the sidewalls 34, 38 could be adjustable to a user's preference in some constructions.

In FIG. 16, the hood 208 that is freestanding or anchored to the work surface 70. If freestanding, the hood 208 can be slid toward the front edge (“extended”) or rear edge (“retracted”) of the work surface 70 to move it closer or further away from the user depending on the user's needs. The hood 208 helps block ambient light, noise, and distractions. When in the retracted position, the hood 208 is more open. In some embodiments, the hood 208 may be powered for movement between the retracted and extended positions. In other embodiments, the hood 208 may be manually movable between the retracted and extended positions. In further embodiments, the hood 208 may be automatic in that the workstation 204 senses when a user is sitting down at the workstation 204 and automatically moves the hood 208 to the extended position, and senses when the user is standing up from or leaving the workstation and automatically moves the hood 208 to the retracted position.

In FIGS. 17 and 18, the sides 34, 38 of the hood 308 each include three right-triangle shaped wall components 334a, 334b, 334c and 338a, 338b, 338c to support the canopy 236. The first wall components 334a, 338a form a sidewall that is parallel to the side edges 74, 78 of the desktop 44. The first wall components 334a, 334b each include a short side that is positioned on the work surface 70, a long side that extends vertically from the work surface 70, and a hypotenuse. The second wall components 334b, 338b include a short side that sits on the work surface 70, a long side that extends vertically from the work surface 70, and a hypotenuse. The corner between the hypotenuse and short side of the first and second wall components 334b, 338b come together at a right angle (i.e., with an angle between the short sides being 90 degrees). As such, the second wall components 334b, 338b extend toward each other generally along the rear edge 86 of the desktop 44. The third wall components 334c, 338c include a hypotenuse that extends along the hypotenuse of the associated first component 334a, 338a and another wall that extends along the hypotenuse of the associated second wall component 334b, 338b. The third wall components 334c, 338c therefore bridge between the hypotenuses of the first and second wall components 334a, 338a, 334b, 338b.

FIG. 20 illustrates an exemplary desk 30 that can be used in the present invention. The illustrated desk 30 includes pathways 304, 308 formed beneath and behind the desk 30. The pathways 304, 308 are configured to facilitate power and data distribution through the workstation 14. In particular, the pathways 304, 308 allow cables and other wires to run through the workstation 14 for connection to a computer and/or a peripheral electronic device. The cables may also power or provide data for motors, lights, computer, or any other device or feature. In the illustrated embodiment, the pathways include a first pathway 304 formed beneath the openings 98 at the rear of the desk 30, and a second pathway 308 formed in front of the openings 98 and beneath the desk 30. In other embodiments, other suitable pathways may be formed elsewhere in the workstation 14 for routing cables and other wires throughout the workstation 14.

As shown in FIGS. 21-23, a cable guide 312A, 312B, 312C may be used to connect two workstations 14, 14′ together. The cable guide 312A-C, or coupler, extends between two workstations 14, 14′ that are separated from each other by a gap (rather than directly abutting or touching each other). Each of the illustrated cable guide 312A-C includes panels that define a generally open pathway between the workstations 14, 14′. The open pathways allow cables or wires to be run from one workstation 14 to the adjacent workstation 14′. In some embodiments, the cable guide 312A-C may be secured to the sidewalls 34, 38 of the workstations 14, 14′ to also inhibit the workstations 14, 14′ from moving or shifting relative to each other. In other embodiment, the cable guide 312A-C may be adapted to allow relative movement (e.g. one workstation 14 at the standing height and workstation 14′ is at the sitting height) of the two workstations 14, 14′. For example, the cable guide 312A-C may be made of a flexible material, articulated, or telescopic. As shown in FIG. 21 the cable guide 312A is a structure positioned about midway up the height of the workstations 14, 14′. As shown in FIG. 22, the cable guide 312B is a structure that lies generally flat on and extends across the floor supporting the workstations 14, 14′. As shown in FIG. 23, the cable guide 312C is a structure positioned near the bottom of the workstations 14, 14′, but spaced apart from the floor.

FIG. 24 illustrates another construction of the workstation 414 in which sidewalls 434, 438 extend to the floor and support the desktop 44 (i.e., all components of the workstation 414 are supported on the bottom edges 428, 432 of the respective sidewalls 434, 438). The canopy 42 in this construction is essentially the same as in previously-described constructions. In this construction, the sidewalls 434, 438 are structural components for the desk as well as for the enclosure. The desktop 44 in this construction is at a single height, which can be for a seated user or for a standing user, but is not capable of height adjustment. This workstation 414 includes features mentioned above, such as slots or holes 460 for adjusting a height or position of the previously-described shelf 162 (FIG. 8). The workstation 414 also includes openings or holes 498 in the desktop 44 which are a version of the openings 98 described above. It should be understood that features of this construction and all other constructions described in this specification can be mixed and matched for any desired configuration for a particular application.

FIG. 25 illustrates another construction of a hood 508 that sits on top of the work surface 70 of the desktop 44. The hood 508 may be freestanding or anchored to the work surface 70. Similar to the previous hoods, the illustrated hood 508 includes a first sidewall 534, a second sidewall 538, and a canopy 542. Each sidewall 534, 538 includes a front edge 546 adjacent a front of the desk (e.g., where a user is seated), a rear edge 550 opposite the front edge 546, a bottom edge 554 that engages (e.g., sits on) the work surface 70, and an upper edge 558 opposite the bottom edge 554. The canopy 542 is secured to the upper edges 558 of the sidewalls 534, 538 and extends between the sidewalls 534, 538. The canopy 542 includes a first or front edge 562 adjacent the front edges 546 of the sidewalls 534, 538, and a second or rear edge 566 adjacent the rear edges 550 of the sidewalls 534, 538. The upper edges 558 of the sidewalls 534, 538 are angled relative to the work surface 70 (e.g., sloped downwardly from the front edges 546 to the rear edges 550) so that the front edge 562 of the canopy 542 is an upper edge and the rear edge 566 of the canopy 542 is a lower edge. The rear edges 550 of the sidewalls 534, 538, the rear edge 566 of the canopy 546, and the work surface 70 frame an opening 570 defined by the hood 508.

In the illustrated construction, the upper edges 558 of the sidewalls 534, 538 are also angled relative to each other, while the bottom edges 554 of the sidewalls 534, 538 are generally parallel to each other. For example, the upper edges 558 may be oriented at the angle α (FIG. 6). In some constructions, the angle α may be between 15° and 45°. More specifically, the angle α may be about 15°, 20°, 25°, 30°, 35°, 40°, or 45°. Since the bottom edges 554 of the sidewalls 534, 538 are parallel to each other, the sidewalls 534, 538 are twisted to angle the upper edges 558 relative to each other.

Similar to the previous workstations, the sidewalls 534, 538 and the canopy 542 of the illustrated hoodie 508 may also be made of translucent materials.

Various features and advantages of the disclosure are set forth in the following claims.

Claims

1. A workstation comprising:

a first sidewall having a first edge and a second edge;

a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall, the second sidewall having a first edge and a second edge;

a desk configured to support the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the desk movable between a first height and a second height, and having a planar upper surface;

a panel coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall, the panel being angled relative to the planar upper surface of the desk;

an opening formed by the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the planar upper surface, and the panel; and

wherein the first sidewall and the second sidewall are angled so that the first edge of the first sidewall and the first edge of the second sidewall are closer together than the second edge of the first sidewall and the second edge of the second sidewall.

2. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the first sidewall, the second sidewall, and the panel move vertically with the desk as the desk moves between the first height and the second height.

3. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the desk is secured between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

4. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the panel is fixedly coupled to the first sidewall and the second sidewall so that the first sidewall, the second sidewall, and the panel form a self-supporting structure.

5. The workstation of claim 4, wherein the self-supporting structure is movable with respect to the desk.

6. The workstation of claim 1, wherein a lower edge of the panel is spaced at most 28 inches above the planar upper surface of the desk.

7. The workstation of claim 1, wherein a ratio of a width of the opening to a height of the opening is approximately 16:9.

8. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the panel is angled approximately 30 degrees with respect to the desk.

9. The workstation of claim 1, wherein the first sidewall is angled so that the first edge is approximately 30 degrees from the second edge.

10. The workstation of claim 8, wherein the second sidewall is angled so that the first edge is approximately 30 degrees from the second edge.

11. The workstation of claim 1, further comprising a first table having a first height to fit under the desk of the workstation and a second table having a second height that is taller than the desk of the workstation.

12. A workstation comprising:

an overhead structure comprising: a first sidewall; a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall; and a panel secured to and extending between the first sidewall and the second sidewall so that first sidewall and the second sidewall are secured relative to the panel and the first sidewall is secured relative to the second sidewall;

a desk configured to support the overhead structure, the desk adjustable between a first height and a second height, and having a planar upper surface; and

an opening formed between the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the panel, and the planar upper surface.

13. The workstation of claim 12, wherein the overhead structure moves vertically with the desk as the desk moves between the first height and the second height.

14. The workstation of claim 12, wherein the desk is secured between the first sidewall and the second sidewall.

15. The workstation of claim 12, wherein the overhead structure is movable with respect to the planar upper surface.

16. The workstation of claim 12, wherein the first sidewall is angled relative to the second sidewall from a first edge of the panel to a second edge of the panel.

17. The workstation of claim 16, wherein the first sidewall and the second sidewall are each angled approximately 30 degrees from the first edge of the panel to the second edge of the panel.

18. The workstation of claim 16, wherein the first edge of the panel is a lower edge and the first edge of the panel is spaced at most about 28 inches above the planar upper surface of the desk.

19. The workstation of claim 11, wherein a ratio of a width of the opening to a height of the opening is about 16:9.

20. The workstation of claim 12, further comprising a first table having a first height to fit under the desk of the workstation and a second table having a second height that is taller than the desk of the workstation.

21. An overhead structure for use with a desk having a planar upper surface, the overhead structure comprising:

a first sidewall having a first bottom edge configured to rest on the planar upper surface of the desk and a first upper edge that is obliquely angled relative to the first bottom edge;

a second sidewall spaced apart from the first sidewall, the second sidewall having a second bottom edge configured to rest on the planar upper surface of the desk and a second upper edge that is obliquely angled relative to the second bottom edge; and

a panel secured to the first and second upper edges and extending between the first and second sidewalls, the panel configured to be spaced from the planar upper surface of the desk so that an uninterrupted opening is formed between the first sidewall, the second sidewall, the panel, and the planar upper surface when the overhead structure is supported on the desk.

22. The overhead structure of claim 21, wherein the first upper edge is angled relative to the second upper edge from a first edge of the panel to a second edge of the panel.

23. The overhead structure of claim 22, wherein the first and second bottom edges are parallel.

24. The overhead structure of claim 21, wherein the first sidewall, the second sidewall, and the panel are made of translucent materials.