Portable Patents (Class 160/135)
  • Patent number: 5375641
    Abstract: A modular panel system suitable for erecting a freestanding portable exhibit display, or room partition, utilizes a plurality of lightweight structural panels interconnected across the entire horizontal length of the display, or partition, by a plurality of elastic connecting members. Vertically abutting structural panels are interconnected by a plurality of rigid connecting members. The structural panels accommodate the elastic and rigid connecting members through insertion into a first set of horizontally extending parallel channels internal to each panel, and a second set of vertically extending parallel channels internal to each panel. The overall weight of the present modular panel system is significantly reduced, while achieving a hinged relationship between horizontally abutting panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 27, 1994
    Assignee: Good Impressions, Inc.
    Inventor: Donald D. Schlueter
  • Patent number: 5372174
    Abstract: Tools used by masons, painters, plasterers, wallboard tapers and many others are usually cleaned at the end of the day by hosing them off. Water may splash back, wetting the shoes and pants of the workman. Also water may accumulate on the ground or paved surface where cleaning is being carried out, causing the soles of shoes or boots to become soaked. The present invention comprises a hinged member comprising a base on which the workman stands and a vertical leaf in front of the workman to intercept splashes. Side wings may be hinged to the vertical leaf.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 13, 1994
    Inventor: Harland E. Wilke
  • Patent number: 5363616
    Abstract: An adjustable mullion is provided for forming a corner or joint between two building panels such as in the formation of shower enclosures, walls, partitions and the like. The mullion can be adjusted through an arc of up to 90 degrees in one orientation and can be inverted to provide a total of 180 degrees of movement. The mullion comprises two members which can be cooperatively interconnected before or after joinder to the panels. Each member includes an elongated barrel portion which is generally arcuate in cross-section. One of the barrels is sized for being received and retained within the other barrel to form an adjustable joint between the mullions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1994
    Assignee: Diston Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Ana M. Hernandez
  • Patent number: 5364311
    Abstract: A collapsible labyrinth is constructed with a plurality of collapsible separating boards temporarily secured by vertical pivotal posts, two horizontal bars respectively on and under a line of separating boards to secure upper and lower ends of the pivotal posts, and tenons fitting in a mortise in a lower end of each separating board and also in one of tenon holes preset in the ground for securing temporatily each separating board so that the boards can be altered in position to make up a labyrinth route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: November 15, 1994
    Inventor: Hung-Tu Chou
  • Patent number: 5355555
    Abstract: A hinge strip forms a hinge arrangement comprising a plurality of edge related segments, oriented between two mutually adjacent elements, normally in the form of two flat panels, the strip having at least one surface coated with a respective adhesive layer for adhesion to at least one of an edge region and an edge surface of a respective element, the hinge strip being divided along its edge surface into segments by exposing a number of mutually spaced segments separating weakenings, which are arranged to extend transversely to a longitudinally extending center line or a hinge rotation line, each segment having a nonadhesive surface region which is positioned between two adjacent adhesive surface regions, a non-adhesive surface region of adjacent edge segments being located on alternating sides of a hinge line.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Inventor: Christer Zarelius
  • Patent number: 5356119
    Abstract: A free standing versatile baby barrier system comprising individual modules each having a flat stiff mat-like horizontal component and a flat vertical component of similar width attached at one end near a mid-section of the horizontal component such that the width of the vertical component spans the width of the horizontal component. The vertical component is of sufficient height to prevent the baby from climbing over the barrier to the protected side, and the horizontal component is of sufficient length to require the baby to stand or crawl on the horizontal component thus securing the horizontal component to the floor by the baby's own weight. Individual modules may be detachably linked together with hinge members attached to the lateral edges of the vertical components of the modules, allowing for rotation of the modules relative to one another to conveniently adjust the barrier system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 18, 1994
    Inventor: Joel F. Schock
  • Patent number: 5351740
    Abstract: A new attachment plate is provided for securing components of panel assemblies to a mounting post, the attachment plate incorporating a securing hook together with a locking tab. The attachment plate includes a projecting hook which mates with a slot in a mounting post structural member. The hook is of a lesser length than the slot in the post, and a further projection as a locking tab is provided on the attachment plate which also enters the slot and restrains reversed relative movement between the plate hook and the post slot, so as to limit or prevent undesired disassembly of a panel from the post. The application of an upward impact to the plate causes a cam surface on the locking tab to contact the upper end of the mounting post slot. This deflects the locking tab out from the slot, to enable removal of the hook from the slot, for panel disassembly from the post. Also provided is a hooked supporting plate incorporating pairs of flexible presser tabs, to compensate for manufacturing tolerances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Assignee: G. D. Hanna Incorporated
    Inventor: Ronald D. Hanna
  • Patent number: 5352149
    Abstract: A children's play structure includes a frame having hinging sections capable of being arranged into a free-standing structure and interchangeable panels capable of removable attachment to the frame to provide multiple scenes on the plurality of hinging sections of the frame. The hinging sections of the frame comprise elongated beams or pipes joined at their opposite ends to form an open rectangular frame pivotally joined to adjacent hinging sections. In a first embodiment, the panels are provided by a piece of canvas folded over on itself and stitched together at opposite ends to form a sock which is dropped onto the frame. The canvas is easily replaced by another canvas having different scenes or murals to change the theme or environment of the play structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Assignee: Calapitter Creations, Inc.
    Inventors: Connie R. Melashenko, Erik W. Nielsen, Robert A. Melashenko
  • Patent number: 5347778
    Abstract: A system for joining partitioning panels is simple to assemble and take down while effectively concealing the inter-panel connections and maintaining visual continuity of the panels. Attachment fittings are provided at the top and bottom corners of each panel and plate-like connector brackets are used to connect the fittings and assemble the panels either in line or at an angle. Snap-on covers are provided for the top attachment fittings which conceal the connector brackets and form a visual continuation of finishing strips which extend along the top edges of the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 20, 1994
    Assignee: Globe Business Furniture, Inc.
    Inventor: James R. Bray
  • Patent number: 5339576
    Abstract: A modulable wall system is shown including panels that are flexibly hinged to each other along vertical main frame sections. Each individual panel consists of a flat core made of a light material and is peripherally limited by a rigid area. The rigid area is provided for connecting vertical main frame sections to upper and lower horizontal main frame sections. The vertical main frame sections have grooves along their vertical sides for linking and hinging with adjacent panels and the lower horizontal main frame sections have support feet threadedly connected thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 23, 1994
    Assignee: Steelcase Strafor (S.A.)
    Inventor: Philippe Fussler
  • Patent number: 5325904
    Abstract: A partitioning system with vertical posts and horizontal connecting tubes, where panels can be attached to the posts with connecting elements, the posts having a connecting bar which is perpendicular to the plane of the partition with a row of connecting bores, cantilevered arm elements, which extend perpendicular with respect to the partition plane, can be attached to the posts. A simple structure of partitions with a closed visible side is possible with the aid of specially designed connecting elements, without the connecting elements being visible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Assignee: Martin Leitner
    Inventor: Martin Leitner
  • Patent number: 5323836
    Abstract: A portable display system including an array of modular corrugated paperboard panels arranged in a matrix having at least two vertically adjacent rows of panels. Each panel has peripheral flaps folded back to provide strength and to capture threaded fasteners that protrude from the rear of the panels. Attachment hinges engage the fasteners at the rear of the panels to align and join adjacent panels. A vertical reinforcing tube is attachable at each end of the display by passing through holes defined in flaps at the rear of the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: Boise Cascade Corporation
    Inventors: Paul B. Tuttle, William E. Owens
  • Patent number: 5313751
    Abstract: An edge connector for connecting structural members at their adjacent edges is disclosed, including a base extending transversely between its edges, a support wall integral with the base and extending away from the base on one side thereof, the support wall extending generally parallel to the base edges and being positioned between the transverse center of the base and one edge; and a tongue integrally connected at one end to the support wall, extending from the support wall to a free end thereof; and spaced away from the base and positioned between the transverse center of the base and the other edge of the base on the side of the center opposite the one base edge, the tongue and the base defining a recess therebetween to receive the tongue of a mating connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 24, 1994
    Inventor: Waldemar E. Wittler
  • Patent number: 5309686
    Abstract: A work space management system for creating work areas including two horizontal elongate tracks attached to a permanent wall with a decorative wall tile disposed therebetween and an office partition panel attached to the tracks at variably selectable positions for defining and partitioning the work areas. Overhead modular storage units and work surfaces may attach alternatively to the panels and tracks at any point and may be removed and relocated as needed. The brackets attaching the modular furniture to the track include an anti-dislodgement tang preventing disconnection of the furniture units from the track by only vertical movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 10, 1994
    Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Underwood, Jay M. Henriott
  • Patent number: 5305567
    Abstract: A frame system and frame members in which the frame members have a base, a support wall extending from the base adjacent one edge thereof a tongue extending from the support wall parallel to and spaced from the base, a detent or groove between the free end of the tongue and the other edge of the base, a bend or protrusion connected to the base adjacent the one edge, on the other side of said base from said support wall a tubular structure comprising a center channel and a pocket on each side thereof for receiving an angle member. In an assembled frame, the frame members are joined end to end by angle members in the pockets. Hook and loop features fabric secured respectively to the sides of the pockets and display panels permits simple mounting and changing of panels on the assembled frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: Waldemar E. Wittler
  • Patent number: 5293720
    Abstract: A modular support structure for a control room work station is disclosed which is capable of being used to support top surfaces of different shapes. The support structure includes a plurality of adjustable posts wherein each post comprises two elongated rectangular post flanges, each having a top edge for supporting the top surface, a bottom edge, an elongated outer edge and an elongated articulating edge opposing said outer edge, and hinge means for articulating said two rectangular post flanges with each other along said articulating edges. The hinged posts permit the attachment of panels at a variety of angles to accommodate the shape of the top surface. Also provided is a control room work station having the modular support structure of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 15, 1994
    Assignee: The Human Factor, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard M. Brice, Thomas M. Gattis, Kent R. Brewer, Arthur G. Howard
  • Patent number: 5291700
    Abstract: An activities module is positioned on a support surface, such as the floor of a room, to provide activity stations with horizontal work surfaces. The module includes an upright post member that has at least two vertical grooves. A flat panel has an opening sized to receive the post member when the flat panel is oriented horizontally, and upright partition panels are provided corresponding to the vertical grooves in the post member. Each partition panel has an inner edge fitted into the groove, an outer edge and a bottom edge that rests on the support surface. The partition panels each have a slot to receive the flat, horizontal panel, and fasteners secure the module together. A second flat, horizontal panel may similarly be mounted below the first flat panel, and a third flat, horizontal panel may provide a shelf or bench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Inventor: Keith Chew
  • Patent number: 5287909
    Abstract: A freestanding privacy screen comprises a plurality of like panels shaped to be positioned in a side-by-side relationship. Each panel includes a frame on which an insert panel can be mounted, and hollow side members or uprights. A pair of hinge rods are positioned in the hollow uprights of the frame for axial rotation therein, and have first key members positioned adjacent opposite ends thereof. Panel connectors interconnect adjacent panels in a mutually vertically aligned relationship. Each panel connector has a two-part body construction interconnected by a removable fastener to capture associated end portions of adjacent hinge rods therebetween. The connectors have second key members that mate with the first key members on the hinge rod ends which rotationally interconnect adjacent hinge rods, such that when the privacy screen panels are pivoted, the hinge rods retain adjacent panels in their vertically aligned relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 22, 1994
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Marvin C. Knauf, Bruce A. Preston, John C. Fuhs
  • Patent number: 5282606
    Abstract: A reconfigurable safety fence system for disposition relative to a fixed plane or area of reference includes a plurality of panels, each panel having a central vertical post including a swivel-mounted wheel at a lower base and, essentially symmetrically about an axis defined by the central post, respective upper and lower horizontal, and left and right vertical, perimeters of each of the panels, including vertical picket elements between the horizontal perimeters, each of the vertical perimeters including hinge elements for rotational movement and securement of each panel relative to that panel adjacent thereto about a vertical axis of each of the hinge elements in which a first vertical perimeter of a first of the panels of the system is secured to the area of reference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 1, 1994
    Inventor: Arthur V. Praiss
  • Patent number: 5274970
    Abstract: A freestanding partition system including upstanding posts for resting on a floor. At least one rail assembly extends between adjacent posts and is spaced from the floor. Saddles hang from the rail assembly and trays are suspended from the saddles to form raceways. A vertical pole assembly is detachably connected to each post and extends coaxially therewith so that a pair of adjacent pole assemblies and a rail define a panel-receiving space. A panel is supported by the rail and is receivable in the panel-receiving space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Inventor: Raymond P. Roberts
  • Patent number: 5272848
    Abstract: A portable room divider includes a plurality of folded wall panels positioned between a pair of end members with wheels. The end members are provided with clasps that normally retain the panels in a folded condition and cooperate with the end members to form a cart for the panels. The clasps can be disengaged to permit the panels to be unfolded to form a wall that is anchored at each end by an end member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1993
    Inventor: Paul Maas
  • Patent number: 5259164
    Abstract: A wall capable of rapid assembly and dismantling is disclosed, which includes a plurality of detachable boards, each of which are connected to at least one other of such detachable boards on an adjacent facing side. Coupling elements for connecting each of the plurality of detachable boards to another of such board are included, each of which permit at least a part of the facing sides of the plurality of detachable boards, which extend in a vertical direction, an infinitely variable swiveling action about an axis extending parallel to the facing sides of the plurality of detachable boards. The coupling elements extend perpendicularly to a swiveling axis and in the direction of the swiveling axis and are fastened edgeways laying flat to each of two detachable boards which are adjacent one another. The coupling elements act as a spacing piece along the facing side of each of the detachable boards and extend perpendicular to the swiveling axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1993
    Inventor: Martin Wiese
  • Patent number: 5258083
    Abstract: An office space dividing panel, and method of assembling same, wherein first and second rectangular fabric pieces are applied to first and second major flat faces, respectively, of a rectangular frame. The rectangular frame has a perimetrical edge which defines first and second peripheral grooves. Outer edges of the first and second fabric pieces are firmly held in the first and second peripheral grooves by a pressure sensitive adhesive, which in a preferred embodiment of the invention is applied to the grooves in a foamed, heated state. Each fabric piece is tensioned in the directions of the length and width of the fabric piece while the fabric is pressed into an adhesive coated peripheral groove, with sufficient pressure being applied during the pressing step to immediately set the adhesive and bond the fabric piece to the frame while retaining the applied tension in the fabric piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1993
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: Duane M. Monk, John R. Pfaendtner, Ronald B. DeLong
  • Patent number: 5255478
    Abstract: Workstations with the look and feel of millwork but with the flexibility of systems furniture comprise modules constructed from a relatively few number of elements. The modules are based on several basic geometries, and comprise a horizontal work surface, a forward support panel assembly, and end panel assemblies. In addition, each module can be equipped with transactional shelves and various accessories, e.g. pull-out writing shelves and pencil drawers, drawer pedestals, courtesy shelves, lighting, etc. The elements of the modules are constructed from durable materials that are easy to maintain and clean. Certain embodiments of these workstations are particularly well adapted for use in health care settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1993
    Assignee: Bay View Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Baranowski, Daniel J. De Vries, Gene T. Plitt
  • Patent number: 5251413
    Abstract: A space divider system comprising a pair of rigid rectangular frames rigidly secured to each other at their edges and modular components mounted to the frames. The bending moments of the modular components are opposed by a stabilizer that comprises a spacer having opposed outer faces that are flush with the outer face of the frames, a foot secured to a lower end of the spacer and extending outwardly therefrom in floor contacting relationship, and a brace secured to the foot and the spacer. The stabilizer is rigidly connected between the edges of the two adjacent frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventor: Steven F. Goodman
  • Patent number: 5242241
    Abstract: A display accessory for rigid connection to a display panel of the type having an elongated longitudinal undercut retaining channel along one edge and having a narrow slot entrance to the retainer channel. The accessory includes a longitudinal tubular member of circular or polygonal cross-section and at least one pair of aligned longitudinally spaced apart connectors on the tubular member. Each of the connectors comprises a lock pin extending through the wall of the tubular member and having a large retaining head within the tubular member. The opposite end of the lock pin has a locking member having opposed flat faces. The shape of the locking member corresponds to the cross-section of the retainer channel of the panel to which the accessory is to be connected and the thickness of the locking member is such that it fits within the channel slot of the display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1993
    Assignee: Media/Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: LeRoy O. Nelson
  • Patent number: 5238515
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing an enlarged sheet-like fabric to a side face of a panel which is provided with edge frame elements having retaining channels extending therealong. Each retaining channel has a film or bead of a solid adhesive therein. An edge portion of the fabric is positioned to extend over the mouth of the groove, and is then folded over an inserting member which inserts the fabric edge portion into the groove. Substantially simultaneously the adhesive film or bead is heated, as by an induction heater, and the inserting member presses the folded fabric edge portion into the melted adhesive. This contact is maintained and the adhesive is subjected to cooling to effect resolidification thereof and fixed securement of the inserted fabric portion to the channel part. The insertion preferably involves an inserting device having a plurality of blade-like rollers which insert the fabric into the channel as the edge frame of the panel relatively moves longitudinally along the set of rollers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1993
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Insalaco, Thomas L. Dykstra
  • Patent number: 5220952
    Abstract: A fastening device for resiliently attaching adjacent panel sections together in edgewise alignment, wherein the panel sections respectively have pairs of alignable openings through peripheral edge extrusions, and the fastening device includes a pair of guide members for inserting into the openings of a first panel section and slidable locking devices for inserting into the edge extensions of a second panel section, and an elastic cord having ends secured by the locking devices and a length fed through the alignable openings and guide members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1993
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan Beaulieu
  • Patent number: 5219406
    Abstract: A framework for a space partition of the type used in dividing up an open space into individual offices which can be easily made of any desirable dimensions. The framework is made up of a pair of vertical members and a cross member connecting the vertical members. The cross member is, in turn, made up of a pair of connectors, each of which can engage one of the vertical members and which are connected to each other by a rod which is cut to a precise length so as to create a framework of a desired size.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1993
    Assignee: Schwartz Bros. Wood & Metal Furnitures Ltd.
    Inventor: Dan Raz
  • Patent number: 5207260
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an adjustable restraint system for confining articles within a desired space in a storage compartment such as an automobile trunk. One embodiment of the restraint system includes at least two posts positioned within the storage compartment and a piece of fabric secured to one of the posts for defining the storage space. The system further includes a fastener for maintaining the fabric in a taut condition and thereby preventing movement of the articles within the storage compartment. The posts are preferably adjustable in height so that the system of the present invention may be used in different dimensioned storage compartments. In another embodiment of the present invention, multiple posts and multiple pieces of fabric are used to form multiple article storage spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Inventor: Domenic V. Commesso
  • Patent number: 5207258
    Abstract: A sunshade consisting of one or more panels for all type windows and particularly side and rear vehicle windows. The sunshades made of a tear resistant corrugated base material with die cuts that provide a plurality of louver apertures. Die cut notches may be provided for joining and interlocking one panel to another permitting the sunshade to be made wider or narrower. The panels may also include integral stiffening members that double as mounting support legs so that the panels stiffly traverse large areas. The aperture flaps may be individually moved to any desirable angle that prevents sun glare and blaze from penetrating the windows of a moving vehicle, but without obstructing the ambient daylight or overall vision of the occupant. When parked, the flaps may be pressed back into the die cut aperture cavities so as to provide opaque panels for full sun blockage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1993
    Inventor: Paul M. Lennard
  • Patent number: 5201356
    Abstract: A partition for exhibition stands having at least one upper horizontal cross member and at least one lower horizontal cross member connected to one another by vertical uprights. A flexible material ring is disposed about the upper and lower cross members in order to bear via an upper loop on the upper member and hang via a lower loop under the lower cross member with a ballast being disposed inside the ring at the level of the lower loop so as to be located below the level of the lower cross member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 1991
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Inventor: Guy G. Chenel
  • Patent number: 5193603
    Abstract: The present invention is a display framing apparatus utilizing a unique side frame member positioned on the side of a display panel. The side frame member has a cavity extending its length and opening at its opposite ends and an assembly structure located within the cavity for quick connection and disconnection of the side frame member to the frame of other panels. The assembly structure has a connection member selectively engageable with and disengageable from the frame of another panel, and an extensible member securing the connection member within the cavity for movement of the connection member by elongation of the extensible member between an inoperative position housed within said cavity and an engaged position wherein the connection device may be engaged with the frame of another individual panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1993
    Assignee: Whisnant Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: Hubert E. Whisnant
  • Patent number: 5187908
    Abstract: A space divider system for subdividing an interior space into distinct work areas is disclosed. The space divider system makes use of modular wall panels having improved interconnection components adapted to interact with tubular mounting frames which are interconnected intermediate to adjacent wall panels. Each wall panel includes a spring-biased upper bracket and a lower bracket each of which is mounted to a respective upper and lower horizontal surface at each corner of the wall panel. The lower bracket has an upturned lip which captures the lower open end of the mounting frame. The upper bracket is normally biased in an open position to permit the mounting frame to be aligned against the wall panel and is thereafter moved downward until its downturned lip captures the open upper end of the mounting frame. Pre-assembly of the upper bracket on each wall panel permits a method of easy and quick assembly and disassembly of the wall panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Assignee: La-Z-Boy Chair Company
    Inventor: Charles I. Losensky
  • Patent number: 5179810
    Abstract: A panel system is provided wherein a pair of adjacent display panels are removably interconnected. The system includes a tensioning member disposed within a peripheral track formed in each of the adjacent display panels. The tensioning member cooperates with an elongate link, which slidably engages the tracks of the adjacent panels and retains the link and tracks in a snug interfitting relation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 19, 1993
    Assignee: Nimlok Company
    Inventors: John L. Gename, David P. Evensen
  • Patent number: 5175969
    Abstract: A portable partition panel is provided for open office plans, and the like, and includes a panel frame and removable cover panels that removably attach thereto. Clips on the cover panels releasably engage side frame segments of the panel frame, and hooks on the bottom of the panel frame releasingly engage mating apertures on the cover panel to form a detachable interconnection therebetween. A top cap includes a catch which pulls the cover panels against the panel frame as the cap is installed to assist in securely, yet removably attaching the cover panels to the panel frame. Connectors on the cover panels can be removed and reinstalled, so that the cover panels can be installed in a second orientation to hide mars upholstery tears, and the like. Also, the panel frame includes an upwardly open channel for receiving articles such as wires in a raceway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1993
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Marvin C. Knauf, Steven J. Throndset, Linda M. Parker
  • Patent number: 5176462
    Abstract: A built-up screen coupling structure, comprising at least two screen board frames side matched together by a plurality of fastening devices and at least an adjusting device. The screen board frames have each at least a side end having a slot at the top and a plurality of relatively smaller openings at the outer side. The openings are respectively divided by a plurality of dividing boards. The fastening devices are respectively fastened in the openings and clamped on the dividing boards to connect two screen board frames together. The adjusting device is fastened in the slot to secure the connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1993
    Inventor: Kuei-Feng Chen
  • Patent number: 5172530
    Abstract: A panel frame and an acoustical insert frame assembly therefor for office furniture space divider systems, which, as assembled, can be utilized in work stations for both sound attenuation and data and communication cable and wire equipment connection masking and pass through purposes as well as masking of slack purposes, in which the panel frame is formed by rigid top, bottom, and side rails to define an open center structure therebetween of quadrilateral configuration that forms the panel frame, and has the usual front and rear sides; the insert frame assembly is mounted on the panel frame to complete the panel, as by being mounted on the front side of the frame, or by having a separate but similar insert frame assembly mounted on the rear side of the frame; each insert frame assembly comprises a supplemental frame that seats within the panel frame open center and mounts within the supplemental frame composite material that both effects sound attenuation and, within the metes and bounds of the supplemental f
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 22, 1992
    Assignee: Allsteel Inc.
    Inventors: Duane D. Fishel, Donald V. Beaver
  • Patent number: 5152113
    Abstract: A composite partition with several rectangular sections each of which has a panel surrounded by a frame having top, bottom and lateral frame members with channels for the respective edges of the panel. The top frame members extend into an inverted U-shaped rail which is affixed to the ceiling, and the bottom frame members extend into a U-shaped rail which is affixed to the floor. One lateral panel of one of two neighboring sections is separated from the adjacent lateral frame member of the other neighboring section by a narrow clearance which receives interengaged separable male and female detent elements of two elongated strip-shaped coupling members at opposite sides of the partition. The outer portions of the coupling members are recessed into the adjacent sides of the lateral frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1992
    Inventor: Jurgen Guddas
  • Patent number: 5131448
    Abstract: The invention is concerned with a foldable panel device which is useful in the display arts. The foldable panel device is particularly useful as a portable display for use at trade shows. The foldable panel device incorporates a pair of upper and lower panel sections which are pivotally connected to each other on a horizontal plane. The upper and lower panel sections have lateral panels connected thereto and which are capable of depending outwardly therefrom for display purposes. It is preferred that two lateral panels depend outwardly from each vertical side of said upper and lower panel sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: Channel-Kor Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Melvin M. Miller
  • Patent number: 5125193
    Abstract: A graphic display panel system formed in sections, wherein a graphic display image may be affixed to each section, the sections respectively having transparent edge caps and/or hinge connectors and/or locking pin assemblies for selectively interconnecting the sections to form an overall surface. The individual panel sections may be formed of a lightweight honeycomb structure or spaced apart plastic sheets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1992
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan J. Beaulieu
  • Patent number: 5121784
    Abstract: A sunshade consisting of one or more panels for all type windows and particularly side and rear vehicle windows. The sunshade is made of a tear resistant corrugated board material with die cuts that provide a plurality of louver apertures. Die cut notches may be provided for joining and interlocking one panel to the another permitting the sunshade to be made wider or narrower. The panels may also include integral stiffening members that double as mounting support legs so that the panels stiffly traverse large areas. The aperture flaps may be individually moved to any desirable angle that prevents sun glare and blaze from penetrating the windows of a moving vehicle, but without obstructing the ambient daylight or overall vision of the occupant. When parked, the flaps may be pressed back into the die cut aperture cavities so as to provide opaque panels for full sun blockage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Inventor: Paul M. Lennard
  • Patent number: 5115855
    Abstract: An improved hinge for portable multi-panel display systems, wherein the display system is formed by a plurality of individual composite panels having a cellular paperboard core the periphery of which has a relatively rigid, higher-density edging. The edging is adapted to receive either a flexible hinge for linking panels or an edge trim piece to form a finished periphery for a display system. The flexible hinge is a living hinge with two webs having parallel lines of weakness.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1992
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Curtis Lindblom, Michael W. Kirchner
  • Patent number: 5107652
    Abstract: Improved construction module comprising a reinforced or prestressed concrete slab (10) having a generally prismatic outer shape in which two of the parallel opposite edges thereof are provided with a plurality of mutually aligned protuberances (10') staggered on opposite edges. The surfaces forming the upper and lower edges are provided with channels (13, 13') which allow modules placed one above the other to be coupled by inserts fitted into the channels. The protuberances (10') on opposite parallel surfaces have aligned bores (11) in which rods (11') are insertable to allow several modules to be coupled together side by side and edge to edge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 28, 1992
    Assignee: Innovacions Tegnologiques S.A. I.T.S.A.
    Inventor: Ricardo R. Sosa
  • Patent number: 5105594
    Abstract: A fabric-covered hinged connector for flat display panels with fabric exteriors. The hinged connector includes caps formed of semi-rigid PVC and having opposing channel portions and tapered ends which are integrally connected with an elongate hinge formed of flexible PVC. The exterior surface and a large portion of the interior surface of the hinge connector are overlaid with fabric. A display panel is inserted into each of the channel portions. The paired display panels may thus be oriented at numerous angles relative to each other while the hinge connector itself is concealed by the fabric. The semi-rigid caps and flexible hinge piece are integrally formed simultaneously in one extrusion process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 21, 1992
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael W. Kirchner
  • Patent number: 5097643
    Abstract: An edge connector for connecting structural members at their adjacent edges is disclosed, including a base extending transversely between its edges, a support wall integral with the base and extending away from the base on one side thereof, the support wall extending generally parallel to the base edges and being positioned between the transverse center of the base and one edge; and a tongue integrally connected at one end to the support wall, extending from the support wall to a free end thereof; and spaced away from the base and positioned between the transverse center of the base and the other edge of the base on the side of the center opposite the one base edge, the tongue and the base defining a recess therebetween to receive the tongue of a mating connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1992
    Inventor: Waldemar E. Wittler
  • Patent number: 5092385
    Abstract: An interlocking panel system having individual thin-walled sections, each section being supported by a rectangular frame formed of edge strip material. Each edge strip is constructed with an outwardly facing interlocking channel, to permit interlocking engagement of hinges and other connectors. The system includes a flexible hinge assembly which has outer edges shaped to slidably engage into the edge strips, and locking levers for indexing and affixing the respective flexible hinges in locked relationship to the panel sections. The edge strips also have selectively positioned locating holes and a slidable bar is movable into position along the edge strips, to permit the attachment of locating pins and feet for the various panel sections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1992
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventor: Bryan J. Beaulieu
  • Patent number: 5088541
    Abstract: A space dividing panel system having a plurality of panels. Slotted standards are disposed between adjacent panels, with each slotted standard having first and second vertical rows of slots respectively accessible from opposite sides of the panels. A counter cap is disposed in spaced relation above an upper edge of a panel, supported by at least one support assembly. The upper edge of the panel includes an upwardly open wire trough. The support assembly includes first and second bracket members respectively supported by the first and second vertical rows of slots. A third bracket member is fixed to the first and second bracket members, and the counter cap is fixed to the third bracket member. The spaced relation between the counter cap and the upper edge of the wire trough provides access to the wire trough without disturbing the support assembly or counter cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 18, 1992
    Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.
    Inventors: Brian J. Persing, John P. Connor
  • Patent number: 5083668
    Abstract: A point-of-purchase display includes adjacent aligned panels having horizontal corrugations and spaced X-shaped slits cut therethrough, hangers for supporting product extending through the panel slits, U-shaped elongate clips adapted to frictionally engage the lateral edge of a panel to hold panels in vertical alignment, and side rails having a guard and a free end extending horizontally through clip apertures into the corrugations. The panels may be hinged together and friction means may be placed on the side rail ends to limit free movement within the corrugations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 28, 1992
    Inventor: Richard D. Bushey
  • Patent number: 5082224
    Abstract: An invention for facilitating the installation and removal of a partition or similar wall-like structure from the interior sections of an aircraft, including a support member, which is attached to any solid or structural section of the aircraft, and a partition fitting, which is secured along any edge of the partition or wall-like structure. The partition is then mountable within any area inside the aircraft by engaging the respective components in joined connection and securing them using any conventional means. The support member comprises a base plate and a section extending vertically from the base diminishing in thickness to form a shank member adaptable for releasable engagement with the partition fitting component of the device. The partition fitting includes a peripheral channel defined by parallel face opposed elements and is adaptable for connection along any edge of the partition or wall-like unit intended to be installed inside the aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1992
    Inventor: Joseph H. Hayward