Cubicle Type; I.e., Spaced From Floor Or Ceiling Patents (Class 52/239)
  • Patent number: 6854233
    Abstract: A partition panel system that requires no tools, is easy to handle and is quickly assembled. The partition panel system includes a panel of barrier material surrounded by a frame and several sets of connectors. Each connector of one set of connectors has an “H” shaped configuration for attaching to panels for linear alignment of the panels. Each connector of another set of connectors a configuration for attaching panels at right angles. Other angles may be used by providing variation connectors. The connectors are inexpensive because they may be made from extrusions that are cut to a predetermined length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: HON Technology Inc.
    Inventors: Terry W. Pitsch, Sean A. Ross
  • Patent number: 6854217
    Abstract: A workstation includes at least one vertical wall that is pivotable between an open and a closed position. In the closed position, wires that are behind the pivotable wall are concealed from view. In the open position, easy access is provided to the wires for re-arranging or changing the wires. The pivotable vertical wall includes at least one horizontal work surface that extends forwardly. A stationary vertical wall may be positioned adjacent the pivotable wall and may provide partial support for another horizontal work surface that extends forwardly from the stationary wall. The stationary wall may include a pivotable panel that allows easy access to wires positioned behind the stationary wall. A top shelf may extend across both the pivotable and stationary walls and include apertures positioned behind the plane defined by the two walls so that wires can be inserted through the apertures to the space behind the walls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Nucraft Furniture Company
    Inventors: Robert J. Bockheim, William Frederick Schacht, Linda Elizabeth Chesser Schacht, Scott E. Carpenter, Michael G. Fedrigo
  • Patent number: 6854234
    Abstract: A panel connector system is provided and includes a plurality of panels and panel connectors. Each panel includes panel sidewall extensions, lips extending from the sidewall extensions, and cross-walls. The sidewall extensions, lips, and cross-walls define outwardly opening edge channels. The panel connectors include a base and a member extending generally transversely from the base. The base includes a base plate and a contact element. The arm portion includes a generally longitudinal slot, a ledge or protruding portion and a spring portion. A male seating surface extends from the ledge and a female seating surface is present on the spring portion. The clip base plate is fastened to the panel cross-wall and one of the lips is disposed in the clip slot when the clip is attached within the edge channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2005
    Assignee: Skyline Displays, Inc.
    Inventors: Dixon Gimpel, Timothy Cota, William Funk
  • Patent number: 6851226
    Abstract: A freestanding partition panel for dividing a floor space includes a rigid partition frame having vertical side frame members and first and second horizontal frame members extending between the vertical side frame members to form a vertically enlarged opening through the frame, and an open space within the panel. At least one intermediate horizontal cross member extends across the vertically enlarged opening and defines upper and lower openings through the frame. The intermediate cross member and at least a selected one of the first and second horizontal frame members include a plurality of horizontally spaced apart attachment locations defining a plurality of discrete, serially adjacent mounting spaces. The partition panel further includes a utility unit that is mountable in a selected one of the mounting spaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Bruce G. MacGregor, Juan Carlos Bruce Novoa, Larry Cheng, Energy Cruse, II, Thomas B. Eich, Jesse A. Fourt, David M. Gresham, Alex T. Grishaver, Joseph Lishing Hei, Matthew D. Inouye, Katherine J. Kuchenbecker, James N. Ludwig, Sven D. Newman, Todd A. Pelman, Alexey Salamini, Franz Niklaus Schulz, Benjamin J. V. Tarbell, Scott A. Whitman, David M. Webster
  • Patent number: 6848236
    Abstract: A treatment or manufacturing installation in a working area, comprising at least one machine having at least one workstation, particularly a beverage bottle treatment or manufacturing machine, which is fixedly disposed on a floor area, and comprising a machine protection device which comprises panes which cover at least the workstation in a supporting frame which comprises vertical pillars and which defines an area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Inventor: Erich Eder
  • Patent number: 6817147
    Abstract: A clip for retaining a cover to a partition frame member of the type having openings on opposite side faces. The clip includes an elongated flexible member having a U-shape defining a base portion and a pair of arms extending therefrom. Each arm includes an end portion extending inwardly, and having a shape that permits reception of the end portions in openings of a partition frame member to thereby retain the clip on the partition frame in an orientation wherein the base portion is spaced-apart from the partition frame member to permit vertical routing of utility lines along the partition frame member and through the clip.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventor: Douglas B. MacDonald
  • Patent number: 6817149
    Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6807776
    Abstract: A prefabricated system for outfitting a building space includes an architectural product (such as a full-height permanent building wall, a post-and-beam product with overhead frame, and a drywall-covered wall), a furniture product (such as a partial-height wall, a partition, and a desking system), and a plurality of accessories. The architectural product includes a structural member with horizontal and vertical accessory-mounting T-slots, and the furniture product includes structural trim pieces with identical vertical and horizontal accessory-mounting T-slots. The plurality of accessories are constructed to stably engage any of the accessory-mounting slots at a selected location along the slots. Some accessories can be attached to and extend between the two products, such as an accessory screen that extends between a post of a post-and-beam system and an end of a partition system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Daniel L. Girdwood, James N. Ludwig, Karl J. Mead, Karl H. Mueller, Dale T. Kelley
  • Publication number: 20040177573
    Abstract: A stackable wall panel assembly includes a lower wall panel having a top, a bottom, vertically extending ends and opposite sides and an upper wall panel having a top, a bottom, vertically extending ends and opposite sides. A lower connector post is connected to the lower wall panel and an upper connector post is connected to the upper wall panel. A draw rod connects the lower connector post to the first upper connector post, with a spacer post disposed therebetween.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Applicant: HERMAN MILLER, INC.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Newhouse, David B. Martin, Kevin Scott Breuker, Mark James Dinneweth, Steven M. Van Weiren, Thomas L. Verkaik
  • Patent number: 6786017
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention employ a modular room including a plurality of modular room components (e.g., anchor assemblies, upright assemblies, etc.). These anchor assemblies and upright assemblies can take different forms permitting assembly of a modular room or modular structure in different manners, and in some cases provide for interchangeable interior and exterior wall panels and components. In some embodiments, a bracket assembly is coupled to an substantially vertical elongated upright for improved strength and stability. Preferably, the anchor assembly has a base plate with at least one edge at an angle with respect to the rest of the base plate for additional strength. If desired, the vertical position of the upright with respect to the base plate can be adjusted. In some embodiments, one or more overhead trusses are used to stabilize the walls of a modular room.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: L&P Property Management Company
    Inventor: Steven C. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6786014
    Abstract: Office forming equipment includes a partition panel partitioning a residence space of an office and is constructed such that a pair of spaces separated from each other with the partition panel have such a mutual relation that the visibility of one of the spaces from the other through the erected planar member varies with varying view angle with respect to an erected surface of the erected planar member. This construction makes it possible to enhance the efficiency of an organization of a knowledge-intensive type markedly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: Kokuyo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akihiro Kishimoto, Fumihiko Nomura
  • Patent number: 6773794
    Abstract: The addition of a small amount of plastic fibers to a mix of inorganic magnesium compound, water and other substances adapted to be extruded to form a synthetic construction panel will significantly reduce the degree of slumping which the extruded material will exhibit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Fairmount Distributors, Inc.
    Inventor: Melvin Lindner
  • Patent number: 6772567
    Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient Jr., Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6761004
    Abstract: A reconfigurable office partition system that includes movable rigid panels each comprised of a core panel mounted within a perimeter frame. Said core panel comprised of a matrix of compressed straw or other cellulose-based natural fiber lined by paper or paperboard suitable for accepting a variety of surface treatments, and also suitable for accepting nails, screws or other means for hanging or otherwise attaching articles thereon. Frames comprised of vertical and horizontal rails specially adapted to engage said core panels and further adapted to releasably and slidably attach to a series of specialty connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Affordable Building Systems
    Inventors: Todd Anglin, Carroll Moore, Erez Steinberg
  • Patent number: 6760999
    Abstract: A workspace display for open plan spaces includes a partition with a plurality of freestanding partition walls configured to divide a building space into at least one workspace. The workspace has an opening permitting user ingress and egress, and the partition has a height lower than a ceiling height to form a gap between a top edge of the partition and a ceiling. The workspace display includes a dry erasable whiteboard secured to the partition, and a video device is mounted to the partition in a generally overhead position in optical communication with the whiteboard, such that an occupant of the workspace can electronically manipulate images on the whiteboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph R. Branc, Mark A. Baloga, William L. Miller, Michell Niewiadomski, Joel D. Stanfield
  • Patent number: 6754998
    Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6756539
    Abstract: An adjustable mid-panel spillover fitting is disclosed. The fitting includes a base, a cover securable to the base, and a cover cap securable to the base and the cover. The base has a spillover side, and the cover has an opening on a side wall thereof for receiving the spillover side. The cover has a shelf extending toward the side wall, and the cover cap has a groove for receiving the shelf therein. The cover cap includes at least one latch on an inside surface thereof for securing the cover cap to the base in a plurality of predetermined positions, and the cover cap is adjustable between the plurality of predetermined positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Panduit Corp.
    Inventor: Charles VanderVelde
  • Patent number: 6751913
    Abstract: A wall structure includes at least two studs that are designed to support panels front and back, and end caps or raceway channel defining members on the leading and trailing edges of the panel wall structure. Each of the studs includes sets of oppositely arranged flanges that in turn cooperate with marginal edges of both the panels and the raceway defining members. Cross bracing is provided to allow wiring either within the enclosed space between the panels, or more preferably in the wireways defined in the raceway members so that the power and data communication conductors can be isolated from one another. The feature of the panel structure is that the panels themselves can support light fixtures or other lightweight electrical devices, and heavier electrical devices or units can be accommodated from the cross bracing or from shelves secured to the cross bracing and to the studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventors: John R. Marrotte, Richard R. Picard, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6751914
    Abstract: A post and beam furniture system having a plurality of horizontally-extending beams having a longitudinally-extending T-shaped first channel and a longitudinally, T-shaped second channel, and a plurality of vertical posts each having a lower portion thereof adapted to be abuttingly supported on a floor surface of an office space, and an upper portion thereof adapted to be connected with the horizontally-extending beams, and a longitudinally-extending T-shaped channel. The channels of the beams and posts receiving a plurality of connectors and accessories, including a multiple bracket post and beam connectors, a T-nut connector, and T-connector, an infill panel, a horizontally-extending two-part wire manager, a vertically extending wire manager, a vertically adjustable worksurface, a transactional surface, a swivel support for supporting a post thereon, and a universal utility hook.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Zeh, James R. Yurchenco, Peter S. Macdonald, Jonah L. Houston
  • Patent number: 6748997
    Abstract: An upright connector or support post usable in a space-dividing wall panel system formed from serially connected panel assemblies. The post includes a plurality of openings disposed in vertically spaced relation with one another which receive load-bearing elements such as hangers or hooks typically associated with furniture components. Dimples or deformations extend transversely along the upper and lower edges of the openings and provide increased strength at the attachment points along the post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 15, 2004
    Assignees: Haworth, Inc., Innotec Corporation
    Inventors: Nicholas Fricano, Richard Dixon, Mark R. Smith, Jonathan R. DeYoung, Scott J. Leenstra
  • Patent number: 6745525
    Abstract: A housing 5 with a cable access aperture 9 for electrical and data wiring, is slidably fitted into a panel rail 1 with one or more apertures for use in a office panel system, the cable access aperture 9 of the housing then aligned with an aperture in the panel slide, said housing 5 being held in its position by a fastening means 11, the aligned apertures allowing the passage of electrical and data wires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2004
    Assignee: Technigroup Far East Pte Ltd.
    Inventor: Bruce High
  • Patent number: 6742307
    Abstract: The present invention recites a system for forming individual work areas within an open area. The system includes a spine wall extending vertically from a surface of the open area. A first work surface extends along and substantially perpendicular to one side of the spine wall. The first work surface has a length substantially equal to a length of the spine wall. A divider wall is positioned atop the first work surface and releasably connected to the spine wall at any point along the length of the spine wall for forming cubicles of desired size. An extension wall is releasably connected to the dividing wall for extending an area of cubicles formed on either side of the dividing wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: Ross Adam Cole Briskman
  • Publication number: 20040093805
    Abstract: A partition system for office spaces generally includes a framework and a plurality of different types of decorative and/or functional tiles mountable to the framework. The framework includes I- and C-shaped vertical frame members which are adjustably joined by upper and lower horizontal spanners such that the distance between the vertical frame members is adjustable. Also, the framework may include other types of vertical frame members for forming L-, T-, or X-junctions within the partition system framework. A variety of decorative and functional tiles are mountable to the framework, including retractable workspace tiles, several types of storage tiles, display tiles, window tiles, and electrical and data services tiles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2003
    Publication date: May 20, 2004
    Inventors: Robert A. Underwood, Keith E. Metcalf, Ryan A. Herbig, J. Douglas Mitchell
  • Patent number: 6735908
    Abstract: A straddle bin for an office furniture system with walls comprised of modular partitions. The straddle bin provides two adjacent compartments extending through an office partition with one compartment open to a first side of the partition only and the other compartment open to a second side of the partition only, and with sliding doors on each side of the partition to close the compartment opening on that side and when open, to lie over a blind, closed rear end of the adjacent compartment. The straddle bin provides private compartments for users on both sides of the partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Inscape Corporation
    Inventor: John R. Edwards
  • Patent number: 6729085
    Abstract: A stackable wall panel assembly including a lower wall panel having a top, a bottom, vertically extending ends and opposite sides and an upper wall panel having a top, a bottom, vertically extending ends and opposite sides. A vertically extending stanchion has a lower end connected to the top of the lower wall panel and an upper end connected to the bottom of the upper wall panel. The bottom of the upper wall panel is spaced from the top of the lower wall panel to form an open space between the upper and lower wall panels. In a preferred embodiment, a rail extends between the stanchions. Also in a preferred embodiment, a cover covers the space formed between the upper and lower wall panels. In another aspect, a second stanchion is connected to the top of the upper wall panel and a second upper wall panel is connected to the top of the second stanchion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Newhouse, David B. Martin, Kevin Scott Breuker, Mark James Dinneweth, Steven M. Van Weiren, Thomas L. Verkaik
  • Patent number: 6718709
    Abstract: A light-weight, portable display system which includes plural, hollow, plastic panels having uniquely contoured corners. The panels may be of flat or curved configuration. Most of the plastic panels are fabricated to present smooth front and rear faces. However, some panels are made with at least one slotted face for supporting shelves therein. Straight plastic connector components are designed to accept the corners of the panels, thereby connecting the panels in a manner to form a display area. Hinged plastic connectors are provided so that adjacent panels may be arranged at angles ranging from ninety to one hundred eighty degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2004
    Inventors: Tim Koutras, Saro Sarkisyan, Veram Badangiz, Paul Edmunds
  • Patent number: 6712118
    Abstract: A knockdown portable exhibition frame assembly as an alternative delineation system used for display purposes at trade shows and special events. Fabric sheet material with an enlarged portion is slipped into a horizontal channel at the top and attached to the bottom channel providing a flat taut wall providing a area for display of graphics and products. Horizontal members are releasably attached to vertical posts to form a frame for the fabric sheet material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventor: Jeffrey Mark Nussdorf
  • Patent number: 6701677
    Abstract: A partition includes a partition frame having a face and a cavity behind the face, and a covering attached to the partition frame that aesthetically covers the face. The covering includes an access slit through which the cavity can be accessed, and is sufficiently flexible so that the slit can be opened to access the cavity. A pouch can be attached to the covering material along the slit, so that a purse-like pouch is created for holding personal items and/or excess electrical wiring. A zipper or closure device can be used on the access slit. In one form, the skin is releasably attached with hook-and-loop material, so that a corner of the skin can be pulled loose for accessing the cavity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: David M. Gresham, James N. Ludwig, Karl J. Mead, Karl Heinz Mueller
  • Patent number: 6688371
    Abstract: A glide assembly for a space-dividing wall panel arrangement including a housing which is mounted within a lower open end of an upright support element associated with a wall panel assembly, and a stem which projects downwardly from the housing for supportive engagement with a floor. The housing includes a lock plate which defines thereon projections which wedgingly engage within correspondingly located openings in the support element. Tabs are provided on the support element which are deformed during assembly so as to engage the respective projections and prevent disengagement of the glide assembly from the support element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2004
    Assignees: Haworth, Inc., Innotec Corporation
    Inventors: Fred E. Rutan, Nicholas Fricano, Mark R. Smith, Jonathan R. DeYoung, Scott J. Leenstra
  • Patent number: 6684929
    Abstract: An office panel partition includes a panel frame having at least two uprights and a horizontal structural member rigidly interconnecting the uprights. The panel frame has a first side and a second opposite side, and the panel frame defines at least four apertures on the first side thereof. The partition also includes a cover member having a major planar surface defining an exterior surface of the partition. The cover member includes at least four projections that are removably insertable into the at least four apertures to removably secure the cover member to the frame. The apertures are arranged in at least two vertically spaced horizontal rows and at least two horizontally spaced vertical columns. The apertures in a first one of the columns have different horizontal dimensions than those of the apertures located in the other of the columns. Each of the projections has a range of lateral positions when inserted into a respective one of the apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas B. MacDonald, Steven E. Sanders, Mark T. Slager, Dean K. Hubbard, Roy W. Fink, Steven J. Throndset, David J. Battey, Robert E. Jeffers, Allen C. Hager
  • Patent number: 6684583
    Abstract: A utility panel system is provided for open office spaces, and the like. Each utility panel has a relatively thick, skeleton-like frame, with a foot and opposite sides shaped for interconnection with like panel frames to create a substantially freestanding utility panel system. Cover panels are detachably connected to the opposite faces of each panel frame to enclose the same, and provide ready access to the panel interior. Horizontal utility troughs extend continuously between the opposite sides of each panel frame in a vertically stacked relationship. The utility troughs have open ends located at the opposite panel sides, and are positioned such that when adjacent utility panels are interconnected in a side-by-side relationship, the utility troughs are aligned to form multiple raceways. Panel connectors are provided to connect the utility panels with one or more of a variety of existing partition panels, such that the utility panels act as a spine which supplies utilities to the existing partition panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald R. Hodges, George V. Weller
  • Patent number: 6681529
    Abstract: An information display system is disclosed. A work environment providing a work area and a workstation including the information display system are also disclosed. The information display system includes a track system adapted to attach to a mounting structure and a plurality of display panels coupled to the track system for movement with respect to the mounting structure. The display panels are adapted to present information selectively for display by pivotal and translating movement of the plurality of display panels. The track system may include at least one rail. The display panels may be cantilevered away from the track system at a vertical elevation to provide clearance below the display panels for a seated worker. The information display system may include a plurality of containers coupled to the track system for movement with respect to the mounting structure, with each of the plurality of containers is adapted to include at least one display panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Baloga, Carl V. Forslund, III
  • Patent number: 6679016
    Abstract: A lift screen has an upright post, a lift mechanism, and a partition board. The upright post is a hollow body, the lift mechanism is disposed in the upright post; and the partition board provides at least an elongated slide plate at a facial side and a lower side connects with the lift mechanism. The lift screen is possible to be set up into multiple forms with multiple functions so as to offer a high mobility and more flexibility while in use and to be set up into a form with a worktable, so as to satisfy various needs and desired arrangements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Inventor: Yu-An Liu
  • Publication number: 20040003556
    Abstract: A privacy door assembly providing a sliding privacy door and supporting panel for selectively closing an entryway in an existing workspace panel system. The support panel includes a front face, top edge, side edge, and bezel opposite the side edge. The support panel attached facewise to a system panel of the workspace panel system form an enclosure for slideably supporting and concealingly receiving the privacy door. The support panel further includes adjustable floor glides for leveling and supporting the weight of the support panel and the attached privacy door. The privacy door may include a recessed pull handle for pulling the door from its concealed position and extending it across the opening to be closed or a spring loaded plunger for propelling the door slightly from the concealed position. A receiving post may be located adjacent to an additional component of the workspace panel system across the opening from the support panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Publication date: January 8, 2004
    Inventor: Norman F. Zerbst
  • Publication number: 20030233810
    Abstract: An office panel assembly and fabric covering therefor. The panel assembly includes a supporting frame and a covering of textile fabric. The textile fabric is of a stitch bonded construction including a stitch yarns extending in a repeating stitch arrangement through a nonwoven fibrous substrate such that the stitch yarns cooperatively form a patterned show surface across one side of the said textile fabric.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Publication date: December 25, 2003
    Inventor: Martin Wildeman
  • Patent number: 6658805
    Abstract: A space-dividing wall panel system having a plurality of base panels which are serially connectable one with the other to define a vertically enlarged wall supported on a floor. Each base panel is defined by at least one horizontal box-beam rigidly connected to a pair of laterally spaced apart vertical uprights which are connected at the opposite ends of the box-beam and have a reduced thickness compared thereto. With this clearance between the faces of the box-beam and the uprights, the box-beam, cross rails at the ends of the uprights as well as additional extension panels are formed with longitudinally extending channels which are positioned free of interference with the vertical uprights and aligned with serially-adjacent channels of serially-adjacent wall panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: X. Shawn Yu, Bryan R. Gingrich, Robert L. Tuttle, Keith Foco
  • Publication number: 20030221383
    Abstract: A glide assembly for a space-dividing wall panel arrangement including a housing which is mounted within a lower open end of an upright support element associated with a wall panel assembly, and a stem which projects downwardly from the housing for supportive engagement with a floor. The housing includes a lock plate which defines thereon projections which wedgingly engage within correspondingly located openings in the support element. Tabs are provided on the support element which are deformed during assembly so as to engage the respective projections and prevent disengagement of the glide assembly from the support element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Inventors: Fred E. Rutan, Nicholas J. Fricano, Mark R. Smith, Jonathan R. DeYoung, Scott J. Leenstra
  • Patent number: 6651396
    Abstract: This invention relates to a space-dividing wall panel system which includes components which are compatible with various types of wall panels and furniture components therefor. These components include a connector bracket having multiple inserts for supporting furniture components thereon, and an interface assembly also is provided which is compatible with various wall panel systems. A spiral cable manager also is provided for supporting cabling within the wall panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2003
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip DeRuiter, Pete Beyer, Dave Emery, Robert Tuttle, Kevin Meyer
  • Publication number: 20030213193
    Abstract: An improved wall panel system is disclosed. The system includes wall panel assemblies, each assembly having a pair of side frame members having slotted channels, top and bottom steel tubes and fork connectors for attachment to the side frame members, a top cap, lower metal supports and a plastic base rail channel and cover. The system also includes a universal connector post, a universal I-beam shaped connector, a universal bracket, a variable height bracket and adjustable corner and end caps. The corner and end caps are scored to allow removal of cap walls resulting in an inventory of fewer parts and system versatility. A removal tool is also disclosed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Publication date: November 20, 2003
    Inventors: Mark Carroll, Tom Michel, Timothy J. Nichols, Martin J. Traver, Osama E. Abusada, Jason L. Thorn, Travis E. Wright
  • Patent number: 6625935
    Abstract: A partition panel for offices includes a partition frame having a horizontal frame member and a pair of horizontally spaced apart vertical frame members connected to the horizontal frame member. An accessory support is connected to the horizontally extending frame member at a selected one of a plurality of locations to permit adjustable connection of the accessory support to the horizontal frame member. The accessory support includes a plurality of vertically spaced apart connectors adapted to support an accessory unit at a selected one of a plurality of vertically spaced locations. An accessory unit is removably connected to the accessory support at a selected one of the vertically spaced apart connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Joel T. Ruiter, David J. Dekkar, James D. Houda
  • Patent number: 6619003
    Abstract: A method of assembling a frame assembly for a partition system is disclosed. The frame assembly includes a partition panel, a fabric covering the panel, and a frame component. The frame component automatically and evenly tensions the fabric about the panel. The frame component provided according to this method includes a support element, a lockable element, and an integral hinge defined between the support and lockable elements. The support element defines a cavity for receiving and supporting the panel. The lockable element extends from and is moveable relative to the support element. The panel is inserted into the cavity, and the fabric is mounted to the lockable element. Next, the lockable element is moved about the integral hinge such that the fabric mounted to the lockable element is automatically and evenly tensioned about the panel. A backing strip may be mounted to the frame component to protect the fabric from the integral hinge.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Quanex Corporation
    Inventors: John Paul Von Arx, Charles Joseph Librande
  • Patent number: 6619008
    Abstract: A corner connector arrangement which joins adjacent upright edges of at least two wall panels for maintaining the panels in angled relationship. The connector arrangement employs a connector post positioned between adjacent panel end edges. Each panel has a connecting bracket provided with outwardly protruding upper and lower flanges which respectively overlap upper and lower ends of the post. The post has suitable openings so that cabling can pass from interiorly of one panel through the post for passage into the interior of another panel. Elongate closure strips are secured to and extend longitudinally along opposite edges of the bracket associated with each panel. The closure strips have cantilevered flanges which are curved similar to and resiliently deflect into engagement with exterior peripheral surfaces on the post to enclose the post and the cabling therein. A separate closer strip that snaps onto the post may be used to enclose the post for two-panel connections.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Assignee: Smed International Inc.
    Inventors: Vincent Shivak, Dale R. Marshall, Darren R. Long
  • Patent number: 6612077
    Abstract: A display board which comprises a thin panel member adapted to be supported on an office wall partition to closely overlie a cover of a partition. The display board is preferably coupled to an internal frame of the partition by a mounting bracket which extends laterally inwardly over the top of a cover into engagement with the internal frame. With an inner surface of the display board lying on an outerface of the cover coupling to the framework to merely provide for support against vertical downward movement of the display board can be sufficient. Mounting separate brackets which extend from the framework outwardly above a cover are advantageously provided for ease of connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Inscape Corporation
    Inventor: David A. Parshad
  • Publication number: 20030154673
    Abstract: A freestanding partition panel for dividing a floor space includes a rigid partition frame having vertical side frame members and first and second horizontal frame members extending between the vertical side frame members to form a vertically enlarged opening through the frame, and an open space within the panel. At least one intermediate horizontal cross member extends across the vertically enlarged opening and defines upper and lower openings through the frame. The intermediate cross member and at least a selected one of the first and second horizontal frame members include a plurality of horizontally spaced apart attachment locations defining a plurality of discrete, serially adjacent mounting spaces. The partition panel further includes a utility unit that is mountable in a selected one of the mounting spaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventors: Bruce G. MacGregor, Juan Carlos Bruce Novoa, Larry Cheng, Energy Cruse, Thomas B. Eich, Jesse A. Fourt, David M. Gresham, Alex T. Grishaver, Joseph Lishing Hei, Matthew D. Inouye, Katherine J. Kuchenbecker, James N. Ludwig, Sven D. Newman, Todd A. Pelman, Alexey Salamini, Franz Niklaus Schulz, Benjamin J. V. Tarbell, Scott A. Whitman, David M. Webster
  • Publication number: 20030150180
    Abstract: A system for forming individual work areas within an open area. The system includes a spine wall extending vertically from a surface of the open area, a first work surface extends continuously and uninterrupted along one side of the spine wall and having a length substantially equal to a length of the spine wall. The work surface is positioned to extend substantially perpendicular to the spine wall. A continuous data and power raceway are attached to the bottom of the work surface. A divider wall is positioned atop the first work surface and releasably connected to the spine wall at any point along the length thereof for forming cubicles of desired size. A second work surface may be positioned on an opposite side of the spine wall. End walls are positioned on opposite ends of the spine wall and extending perpendicular to the spine wall for providing additional support to the system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Ross Adam Cole Briskman
  • Publication number: 20030136066
    Abstract: Office forming equipment includes a partition panel partitioning a residence space of an office and is constructed such that a pair of spaces separated from each other with the partition panel have such a mutual relation that the visibility of one of the spaces from the other through the erected planar member varies with varying view angle with respect to an erected surface of the erected planar member. This construction makes it possible to enhance the efficiency of an organization of a knowledge-intensive type markedly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventors: Akihiro Kishimoto, Fumihiko Nomura
  • Patent number: 6591555
    Abstract: A storage unit for use in an office environment. The storage unit includes a structural frame having two opposing side panels, at least one laterally extending panel extending between and interconnecting the side panels to define an interior space. The frame includes a perimeter defining an access opening that provides access to the interior space. The storage unit includes a flexible cover having opposing side edges, a front edge, and a rear edge. The flexible cover is attached to the structural frame proximate said rear edge of said flexible cover. The flexible cover extends freely from the attachment to the frame. The flexible cover has an engagement feature which is selectively engageable with the frame at first and second locations on the frame. Engagement of the cover with the frame at the first location places the flexible cover in a closed position with the opposing side edges of the flexible cover extending proximate the perimeter defining the access opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Joel T. Ruiter, David J. Dekkar, James D. Houda, Peter E. Mack
  • Patent number: 6585028
    Abstract: A modular building system is disclosed for forming at least one dissassemblable, freestanding screen, the system comprising at least two elongate supports each having an upper end and a lower end, a foot for each of the support members to hold the support members stably in a vertical position and plurality of building blocks adapted to be threaded in vertical progression on the support members, stackable one upon another to form a screen. There is thereby provided a versatile building system for screens, particularly those to be used to partition room space, which are adjustable in height and easily disassembled for reconfiguration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2003
    Inventor: Richard Verdicchio
  • Patent number: 6581344
    Abstract: A workstation for a work environment having a floor is disclosed. The workstation includes a plurality of frame sections, and a latch mechanism releasably and rigidly securing at least one frame section to the floor. The latch mechanism includes a latch coupled to one of the frame sections, a wedge coupled to the latch, and a clip disposed between the latch and the wedge. The clip has a pair of flanges with ends capable of being disposed at least partially beneath the floor. The latch is configured to move the wedge between the flanges of the clip to operate the latch mechanism between a latched position and a released position so that the workstation may be quickly and easily disassembled. A workstation for a work environment having a floor having an aperture is also disclosed. The workstation includes among other features a latch mechanism having a sleeve and a wedge that may be inserted into the sleeve so that an end is at least partially disposed within the aperture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Mitchell Niewiadomski, Frederick S. Faiks
  • Patent number: 6581353
    Abstract: A support device for stabilizing a hanging wall above a floating slab. In areas having expansive soils, basement slabs and surface slabs will rise and fall with increases and decreases in soil moisture. Walls mounted on such slabs would be damaged when the slab rises. Therefore, such walls are made to hang from overhead structures such as joists with the bottom wall end spaced from the slab. The support device is mounted on a bottom plate within such a wall above a base plate fastened to the slab. The device includes a bracket having a flange for fastening to the bottom plate and an tubular extension extending downwardly through a hole in the bottom plate. A sleeve slidingly fits through the tubular extension and includes at least one nail (preferably two nails) extending through the sleeve and engaging the base plate. When the nails are hammered into the base plate, the wall can move up and down with the slab, but is stabilized against lateral movement due to lateral forces on the wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald J. Augustine