Cubicle Type; I.e., Spaced From Floor Or Ceiling Patents (Class 52/239)
  • Patent number: 6571519
    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: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2003
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6553731
    Abstract: A combination partition screen includes at least two upright supports, each upright support having a plurality of longitudinal coupling portions in corners thereof and a plurality of spacers respectively mounted between each two adjacent upright supports to support partition panels, each spacer having a flat base wall, a flat bearing wall and a flat supporting wall respectively extended from the base wall, an upward stop flange extended from the flat bearing wall and adapted to hold with the flat base wall a partition panel on the flat bearing wall, a downward stop flange extended from the flat supporting wall and adapted to hold with the flat base wall a partition panel below the flat supporting wall, a downward locating flange extended from the flat bearing wall and defining with the flat supporting wall an elongated coupling chamber for hanging things, a flat positioning wall perpendicularly extended from an opposite side of the flat base wall on the middle, an elongated clamping wall extended from the fla
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventor: Yi-Cheng Hsueh
  • Patent number: 6550195
    Abstract: The floor system for a work environment providing for access to utilities to be associated with articles such as articles of furniture is disclosed. The floor system includes a plurality of floor tiles. At least one of the floor tiles provides an access pattern. A floor is formed by selective arrangement of the plurality of floor tiles with at least one access point for utilities provided by the access pattern of at least one of the plurality of floor tiles. At least one article of furniture is selectively positioned on the floor. At least one access point can be selectively located within the floor. The position of at least one article of furniture on the floor and location of the access point of the floor are at least partially coincident and access to utilities can be provided through the floor to the article of furniture regardless of the position of the article of furniture on the floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Robert V. Cooper, Joseph R. Branc, Thomas G. Feldpausch
  • Patent number: 6546684
    Abstract: A knock-down partition panel frame includes a pair of spaced apart generally upright posts, each having at least one receptacle defining a tapered surface. The partition panel frame further includes at least one generally horizontal member extending between and interconnecting the posts. The horizontal member includes fastenerless connectors at opposite ends thereof, each having at least one connecting element engaging with the tapered surface to thereby securely interconnect the posts and the horizontal member to define a rigid partition frame having an interior space. A cover panel is secured to the partition frame, and closes off at least a portion of the interior space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael R. Shields, Brian J. Kane, Robin Christopher, Dennis J. Boyle, Peter N. Skillman, Charles A. Seiber, Joseph Chang, Richard S. Hand, Douglas L. Scheerhorn
  • Patent number: 6546675
    Abstract: A panel support assembly 25 comprises a post 10 having at least one elongate recess 12, rotatably supporting a respective panel receiving member 13. The panel receiving member 13 comprising a rod-like member having an internal channel 14 adapted to receive a panel 11. The recess 12 is part-cylindrical and respective panel receiving member 14 is cylindrical, partially fitting within recess 12, so as to allow relative rotation. A pair of panel support assemblies 25, with pairs of panel receiving members 13 facing each other, provides a panel fixing system for fixing a panel 11.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Assignee: Harkk PTY LTD
    Inventor: David John Adderton
  • Publication number: 20030068205
    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 in 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: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2001
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Ronald Augustine
  • Patent number: 6533019
    Abstract: A partition panel for office systems includes a rigid panel frame having a generally rectangular perimeter and a generally rectangular opening therethrough. The panel frame has a base configured to abuttingly support the panel frame freestanding on a floor surface. The panel frame includes a row of openings configured to support hang-on accessories. The partition panel also includes at least four H-shaped connectors, each of which is secured to said panel frame adjacent each side of the rectangular opening. A rigid sheet is secured to the frame by the connectors, and spans at least a substantial portion of the rectangular opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Alan E. Rheault, John S. Malnor, Joel T. Ruiter
  • Publication number: 20030041540
    Abstract: A partition for open building space and the like having a frame including at least one substantially horizontal surface. A cover member is configured to enclose at least a portion of the frame. The cover member includes attachment members configured to connect the cover member to the frame. A seal is attached to the cover member and includes a resilient flap which engages the substantially horizontal surface of the frame to inhibit the passage of acoustical and/or optical energy through the partition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: Donald P. Gravel, Douglas L. Hancey, Vladimir Zila
  • Patent number: 6513288
    Abstract: A window assembly for installation across at least a portion of an opening through a partition frame. The window assembly includes a sheet of light-transmitting material defining opposite edges. Side members are disposed on the opposite side edges, and telescope relative to one another. At least one of the side members includes a connector for securing the window assembly to the partition frame. The connector engages the partition frame upon telescoping of the side members to secure the window to the partition frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas B. MacDonald, Theodore Q. Chau, Kevin J. Longhurst, Richard S. Hand, Mark D. Porter
  • Patent number: 6510663
    Abstract: An in-fill panel arrangement is designed for post and beam furniture systems of the type having overhead beams supported on vertical posts. Each of the beams has a lowermost face with a horizontal slot extending therealong, and each of the posts includes outwardly extending flanges having an end face with a slot extending vertically therealong. Beam-to-post connectors are attached to the opposite ends of the beams, and are detachably retained in the slots in the posts to mount the beams on the posts. Rigid in-fill panels are shaped to be positioned directly below the beams and above the floor to partition the space into individual work areas. Panel mounting brackets are detachably retained in the slots in the posts and the beams, and are connected with the in-fill panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Jourden, Karl Heinz Mueller, Genevieve Wing
  • Publication number: 20030005654
    Abstract: A workstation comprising a beam having a length and comprising longitudinally extending first and second channels. The first channel is spaced apart from the second channel in a substantially parallel relationship therewith. A first component has an insert portion disposed in the first channel, and the second component has an insert portion disposed in the second channel. In one preferred embodiment, a second beam is spaced apart from the first beam in a substantially parallel relationship therewith. The second beam has a length and comprises longitudinally extending first and second channels, wherein the first channel of the second beam is spaced apart from the second channel of the second beam in a substantially parallel relationship therewith.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2002
    Publication date: January 9, 2003
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Weber, Robert M. Seeley, Steven B. Panse
  • Patent number: 6502357
    Abstract: A wall panel system of the present invention includes a plurality of inter-connecting tongue-and-groove panels which are framed by top, bottom, and side channel members to form walls which may be easily erected and taken down. The bottom channel member has a back leg, a front leg, and a bottom surface extending between the back and front legs. The top channel member can either be an integral, one-piece assembly or a two-piece assembly. In the one piece assembly, the top channel member is substantially similar to the bottom channel member. The two piece top channel member includes a fixed member and a locking leg mountable to the fixed member. The fixed member includes a back leg, an upper surface, and a rearwardly facing groove in the upper surface. The locking leg includes a finger which is received in the groove. The locking leg can have either a single panel or have or a pair of spaced apart arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: The GSI Group
    Inventors: Thomas Stuthman, Brian Dust, Corey Knight, Eugene Pollock
  • Patent number: 6497075
    Abstract: A freestanding framework having a plurality of generally vertically disposed support columns supporting a plurality of generally horizontally disposed overhead beams. The overhead beams include a portion that provides a raceway for the delivery of an electrical conduit. One or more barrier members are connected with framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2002
    Assignee: Herman Miller Inc.
    Inventors: Charles P. Schreiner, Travis M. Randolph
  • Publication number: 20020189171
    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: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: David A. Parshad
  • Publication number: 20020189179
    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: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Joel T. Ruiter, David J. Dekkar, James D. Houda, Peter E. Mack
  • Patent number: 6493995
    Abstract: A modular exhibit panel and lock system includes a first wedge secured within a first channel of a first object, such as a modular exhibit panel. A second wedge is secured within a second channel of a second object, such as a second panel. The first and second objects are securely associated with one another by placing the first wedge in the first channel, and the second wedge in the second channel in an orientation generally opposite of a first wedge and sliding the first and second channel relative to one another so that the first and second wedges interlock causing the first and second objects to be connected to one another. A multi-faceted panel connector having channels in at least two facets thereof, and a third wedge within these channels, can be used to securely associate panels of the system with one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Inventor: Alexander L. McKenzie
  • Publication number: 20020184832
    Abstract: An upright space-dividing panel which mounts thereon a cushion usable as a back rest. The cushion is secured to the panel by at least one strap which is secured to the panel and overlies a side face thereof in a generally vertical orientation. The cushion includes a mounting arrangement on the rear side thereof which cooperatively engages with the strap to permit vertical sliding movement of the cushion relative to the panel so as to define a back rest which is usable in conjunction with a furniture component disposed adjacent the panel and defining a seating surface thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2001
    Publication date: December 12, 2002
    Inventor: Ralph E. Reddig
  • Patent number: 6490829
    Abstract: A freestanding framework having a plurality of generally vertically disposed support columns supporting a plurality of generally horizontally disposed overhead beams. The overhead beams include a portion that provides a raceway for the delivery of an electrical conduit, and a lower portion formed as an open-sided rail. One or more barrier members are connected with the open-sided rail.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Herman Miller Inc.
    Inventors: Charles P. Schreiner, Travis M. Randolph
  • Publication number: 20020170239
    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: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Inventors: John R. Marrotte, Richard R. Picard
  • Publication number: 20020170240
    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: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2002
    Publication date: November 21, 2002
    Applicant: L & P Property Management Company
    Inventor: Steven C. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6481163
    Abstract: A partition frame includes vertically spaced apart upper and lower horizontal frame members. The partition frame also has a pair of horizontally spaced apart vertical frame members extending between and interconnecting the upper and lower frame members to form a generally rectangular frame. The vertical frame members have a vertical row of openings configured to support hang-on accessories, and the upper frame member includes a horizontal row of openings configured to support hang-on accessories.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Alan E. Rheault, John S. Malnor, Daniel R. VanDyk, Michael L. Waalkes, Errol S. Pearsons, Bruce W. DuVall, Jr., William K. Hofman, Daniel N. Phillips
  • Patent number: 6481168
    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: November 20, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Ronald R. Hodges, George V. Weller
  • Patent number: 6481169
    Abstract: A prefabricated furniture system for open building plans and the like includes a freestanding portable partition system having individual partition panels detachably interconnected side-by-side to define individual workstations. A post and beam furniture system is also included, having horizontal beams interconnected to define an overhead framework, and vertical support columns with lower ends abuttingly supported on the building floor surface, and upper ends connected with the overhead framework adjacent one end thereof. A connector system connects the overhead framework to the upper ends of the partition panels at a location spaced inwardly from the opposite end of the overhead framework, such that the horizontal beams at that end of the overhead framework extend over and protrude outwardly from the partition panels and are supported thereby in a cantilevered fashion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: James Ludwig, Kurt R. Heidmann, Dean K. Hubbard
  • Publication number: 20020166300
    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: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Applicant: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6474025
    Abstract: A workstation is disclosed. The workstation includes a primary worksurface configured for rotation and coupled to a base configured for rotation, a seat for a user coupled to the base, and a secondary worksurface at least partially surrounding the primary worksurface. The primary worksurface is available to a user on rotation of the primary worksurface and the secondary worksurface is selectively available to the user on rotation of the primary worksurface. A workstation having a rotatable worksurface coupled to the base, a seat for a user coupled to the base, and a partition configured for attachment to the worksurface is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Frederick S. Faiks, Mitchell Niewiadomski
  • Publication number: 20020157335
    Abstract: Floor and a ceiling adapter assemblies for a frame-based workspace definition system for interconnecting a gap between a floor surface and the workspace definition system, and a ceiling surface and the workspace definition system, to provide a full floor-to-ceiling height wall.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventor: Richard L. Vos
  • Publication number: 20020148180
    Abstract: A connector for connecting a horizontal member with at least one vertical member in an interlocking manner includes plastic body in the shape of a cylinder, having one flat side which extends parallel to a longitudinal axis of the cylinder. A pin projects outwardly near a top end in of the plastic body, in a radial manner. A through hole is provided in the plastic body through which a securing screw can be threaded into at least one vertical member against which the connector is disposed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 13, 2001
    Publication date: October 17, 2002
    Inventor: Edwin Muurmann
  • Patent number: 6463701
    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: October 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Baloga, Carl V. Forslund, III
  • Patent number: 6455777
    Abstract: An electrical power distribution system including a hollow elongated enclosure such as flexible metal conduit, a modular furniture distribution, or similar enclosure has a plurality of elongated insulated conductors within the enclosure, and a plurality of wraps spaced along, and each surrounding, the plurality of insulated conductors. There is also a flexible electrical ground conductor having an exposed electrically conductive surface within the enclosure making electrical contact with the enclosure interior in a plurality of randomly distributed regions along the length of the enclosure thereby randomly grounding enclosure regions throughout the extent of elongation. The wraps may comprise strips of adhesive tape confining the plurality of insulated conductors in a bundle and excluding the flexible conductor from the bundle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Dekko Engineering, Inc.
    Inventor: Gregg Edward Laukhuf
  • Publication number: 20020129574
    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: Application
    Filed: February 5, 2002
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Inventors: Thomas J. Newhouse, David B. Martin, Kevin Scott Breuker, Mark James Dinneweth, Steven M. Van Weiren, Thomas L. Verkaik
  • Publication number: 20020129575
    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: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Applicant: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Publication number: 20020129576
    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: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Publication date: September 19, 2002
    Applicant: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6449909
    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 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Mark A. Baloga, Carl V. Forslund, III
  • Patent number: 6442909
    Abstract: A knock-down portable partition includes a rigid panel frame having a central portion. The partition includes at least one cover panel covering at least a portion of the central portion of the rigid panel frame. Connectors detachably mount the cover panel on the panel frame to facilitate assembly and removal of the cover panel on the panel frame. The rigid panel frame includes at least two vertical posts having an upper end, a lower end, and opposite side faces. The opposite faces have at least two beam connection ports thereon positioned adjacent the upper and lower ends of the associated one of the posts. The panel frame also includes upper and lower beams extending generally horizontally between the vertical posts adjacent the upper and lower ends thereof, and interconnecting the vertical posts adjacent the connection ports. The panel frame includes quick-disconnect connectors such as movable lock members positioned on one of the posts and the beams adjacent the connection ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael R. Shields, Brian J. Kane, Robin Christopher, Dennis J. Boyle, Peter N. Skillman, Charles A. Seiber, Joseph Chang
  • Patent number: 6438911
    Abstract: The sizable plastic back-up shear plate is laterally disposed with generally a spring fit into the outwardly facing mouth of a metal window frame. For windows having smaller mouths, the shear plate is cut along a discardable edge portion. The outwardly facing mouth is formed and defined by the window frame elongated hollow body and particularly by outer wall elements which face each other in an opposing manner. The plastic back-up shear plate has laterally disposed opposite outer edge portions which are interlockable on corresponding outer wall elements of hollow body metal window frame which wall elements define the mouth of the window frame. An intermediately disposed locking lip is utilized on smaller frame mouth after cutting or separating off the bread away edge portion. The plastic back-up shear plate has a lateral dimension slightly larger than the lateral mouth dimension and thereby achieves a spring fit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Store Front Supplies, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher A. Gorman
  • Publication number: 20020108330
    Abstract: A space-dividing wall panel arrangement having a plurality of upright wall panels serially connected one with the other by an upright support post. The wall panel arrangement additionally includes an open-frame structure which allows routing of cabling therethrough to provide power and communication capabilities to a workstation defined by the wall panels, and a removable and rigid top cap which is capable of supporting various furniture-type accessories at selected locations along the longitudinal extent of the panel arrangement, and which also permits mounting of return wall panels to permit greater flexibility in configuring a workstation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2001
    Publication date: August 15, 2002
    Inventors: X. Shawn Yu, Steven A. Heyer
  • Patent number: 6430880
    Abstract: A modular display panel and edge latching system therefor which employs concealed movable latching mechanism that can be actuated between adjacent panels set up, for example, on a floor to lock the panels into vertical alignment and against any tendency of floor unevenness to cause adjacent panels to become misaligned vertically. The components in the latching mechanism which create vertical position locking are actuated by the insertion of actuators typically carried as downward projections on other panels which rest on top of directly floor supported, underlying panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Idea Development Company
    Inventor: Matthias D. Kemeny
  • Patent number: 6427389
    Abstract: A workspace display comprises a sidewall partition defining a workspace with a portal opening and a door partition to selectively close the portal. A first display screen is disposed on the interior side of the door partition for individual viewing from inside the workspace. A second display screen is disposed exterior of the sidewall partition and positioned a spaced apart distance in general alignment therewith, without substantial interference with user ingress and egress through the portal opening. A video device is positioned overhead in optical communication with the first display screen when the door partition is in its fully closed position to support individual activities. The video device is in optical communication through the portal opening with the second display screen when the door partition is in its fully open position to support group activities. An image on the second display screen can be viewed on either the interior or exterior screen surfaces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph R. Branc, Mark A. Baloga, William L. Miller, Mitchell Niewiadomski, Joel D. Stanfield
  • Publication number: 20020100236
    Abstract: A space-dividing wall panel has glass panels mounted on opposite faces of the wall panel to permit viewing therethrough. Each glass panel is defined by a sheet of glass and edge rails extending about the periphery of the glass. The edge rails include fixing channels on opposite sides thereof which are press-fit onto respective edges of the glass without the use of a resilient gasket within the fixing channel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventors: Shane Kuipers, Dan Van Huis, Peter Beyer, Mike Sheedlo
  • Publication number: 20020100227
    Abstract: A system for defining a plurality of work zones within an otherwise open area including a first work space configuration and a second work space configuration. The first work space configuration is formed from nonarchitectural rigid walls, and a ceiling. The first work space configuration having a substantially enclosed interior work area. The second work space configuration formed from a framework of spaced apart poles extending upward from a base surface and crossbeams interconnecting the poles. The framework capable of being arranged in a plurality of patterns and forming a substantially open noncovered work area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventors: Lynn Barnhouse, Ayse Birsel, Jeff Weber
  • Patent number: 6425219
    Abstract: A modular partition system is based upon a panel frame structure formed of vertical members of substantially lesser thickness than the panels to be formed, which may be joined end-to-end in a modular manner, and side-by-side to join vertical ends of adjacent panels, and horizontal C-section rails secured to opposite sides of the vertical rails with mouths of the C-sections facing outwardly. Cladding panels are secured by vertically-spaced sets of spring clips engaging respectively upper and lower surfaces of vertically-spaced horizontal rails, and panels and other furnishings are secured to brackets engaged within the C-section of horizontal rails. The relationship of the horizontal and vertical members allows for easy cabling, and the use of the clamps permits panels and furnishings to be located without substantial regard to the horizontal modularity of the system. The basic panelling system requires a minimum number of different modular parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Inventors: Jack Barmak, David Shamir
  • Patent number: 6425626
    Abstract: The sidewalls of a truck/trailer box are constructed from a plurality of panels (10, 12, 14) which are welded together where their vertical edges meet (82, 88, 90). The panels (10, 12, 14) are each extrusions and each includes thin side skins (24, 26 and 48, 50 and 56, 58) and thin webs (28, 52, 60). The top panel (10) may be formed to include an integral top rail (34). The bottom panel (14) may be formed to include one or two side rails (18, 18′ and 120). The regions that need to be welded are made thick enough to be welded. Other regions are too thin to be welded. The overall construction is lightweight and quite strong and facilitates construction of the truck/trailer box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Inventor: Michael Kloepfer
  • Publication number: 20020095890
    Abstract: The wall rack which is designed for an office workstation, in particular a PC workstation, in a freestanding mobile embodiment or with fixed installation comprises essentially an upright base frame (1,10,10′) onto which a front panel (2,2′) is fitted on each side. The shelves (7,8) of various shapes and dimensions in the form of storage shelves (7) or work surfaces (8) which can withstand larger loads can be arranged and rearranged at selected heights on one or both front panels (2,2′). Through a subdivided opening (20) in the front panels (2,2′), which can be manually accessed by means of flaps (4) which can be pivoted upward, it is possible to access an electric socket unit for supplying power and/or for connecting communication leads for the equipment positioned in front of the wall rack.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 8, 2001
    Publication date: July 25, 2002
    Applicant: Vitra Patente AG
    Inventor: Egon Brauning
  • Patent number: 6418681
    Abstract: A modular temporary barrier system includes a plurality of panel members having adjoining edges. Each panel member comprises a foam core and exterior sheathing disposed thereon. Connecting structure associated with the panels is constructed and arranged to removably connect adjoining edges of adjacent panel members to one another, such that connected panel members together form a wall. In preferred embodiments of the invention, each panel member and two one-piece corner members each comprise a foam core and exterior sheathing disposed thereon. Each corner member can be removably connected to a respective end of the wall. In other preferred embodiments of the invention, the modular barrier system can further include two side panel members, each side panel member being able to connect to a respective end of the wall such that the wall is self-supporting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Inventor: James E. Dunks
  • Publication number: 20020088188
    Abstract: A modular partition includes a compartment frame located beneath a lower horizontal strut of the partition. The compartment frame has a vertical wall and side flanges extended from the vertical wall to form separate cable shelves for holding cables inside in an organized fashion to avoid interference. The compartment frame further has two side panels each is pivotally engaged with a bulged flange formed at the upper section of the compartment frame so that the side panels may be opened or closed easily to facilitate cable laying and rearrangement. A plurality of fastening elements are provided to fasten the compartment frame with the partition struts securely.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventor: Ching-Chang Chang
  • Patent number: 6415553
    Abstract: A privacy screen assembly for work spaces of the type having spaced-apart partition panels forming an opening for user ingress and egress therethrough. The privacy screen assembly includes a privacy screen defining a lower edge, and at least one roller mounted adjacent the lower edge for movably supporting the privacy screen on a trackless floor surface. An attachment member is configured to movably interconnect the privacy screen with a first partition panel. The attachment member positions the privacy screen in an offset position relative to the first partition panel. The privacy screen is movable between an open position wherein the privacy screen is disposed alongside at least a portion of the first partition panel, and a closed position wherein the privacy screen closes off at least a substantial portion of the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth R. Krayer, Jr., Mark D. Swets, Troy A. Wyman, Joseph T. Graceffa, Jon D. Schiff
  • Patent number: 6415567
    Abstract: A partition for spatially dividing open building space and the like including a plurality of frames having adjacent frame ends interconnected by vertically spaced connector brackets to define a post-simulating joint and a trim system for the plurality of frames. The trim system includes a locator bracket and at least one side trim strip. The locator bracket is shaped to be attached to one of the connector brackets and includes upstanding side walls with outward extending upper tabs. The at least one side trim strip is shaped to enclose an associated open side of the post-simulating joint and includes at least one inwardly protruding top tab, each top tab mating and abutting at least one of the upper tabs of the locator bracket to positively locate the at least one side trim strip with respect to the adjacent frame ends.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Karl J. Mead, Marvin C. Knauf, Thomas R. Maas
  • Patent number: 6397533
    Abstract: A space dividing or partitioning system includes a series of panels adapted to be knocked down and reconfigured. Each panel includes a panel frame constructed from a pair of vertical posts interconnected by one or more horizontal support members. Each vertical post includes a series of receptacles aligned vertically along each face surface of the vertical post. The receptacles on the vertical posts receive attachment members contained on each end of the horizontal support member. The horizontal support member can be attached between a pair of the vertical posts without requiring the vertical posts to be separated. A tile retaining hook is received within a hook opening formed in the vertical post. The tile retaining hook includes a hook portion that is received in a hook channel of a decorative tile, such that the decorative tile can be hung on the panel frame through the use of the tile retaining hooks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Timothy G. Hornberger, Jon W. Gayhart, Andrew Mansfield, Yung Tse
  • Patent number: 6397532
    Abstract: A freestanding portable partition panel system is provided for open office spaces and the like. Each panel includes a skeleton-like frame having two vertical uprights positioned adjacent opposite side edges thereof, and at least two pairs of horizontal stringers attached to the outer faces of the uprights in a vertically spaced-apart relationship to rigidly interconnect the same. One or more horizontal rows of slots are defined in each of the stringers. Cover panels are detachably mounted thereon to provide ready access to the frame. The cover panels permit access to the slots, and special off-module connectors with hooks for engaging the slots are provided for interconnecting adjacent panels in off-module positions. The hooks of the connectors are engaged with selected slots to hold a first partition panel perpendicular to a second partition panel in an off-module position on its face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: David A. Shipman, Benjamin G. Shaw, Charles A. Seiber, Don S. Minami, David D. McClanahan, Robert J. Luchetti, Christopher O. Lada, Phillip M. Hobson, James B. Eldon, III, Gregg R. Draudt
  • Patent number: 6397534
    Abstract: A cover member for room partitions having a frame with at least one slotted cross-member. The cover member includes a pivoting lock member having a protruding lock tab shaped for reception in a slot in a slotted cross-member of a frame. A connecting member rotatably connects the lock member to a surface of the cover member in a manner which permits the lock member to be rotated about a center of rotation between an insertion position wherein the lock tab is in registry with the cross-member slot and an engaged position wherein the lock tab is engaged with the cross-member to positively yet removably lock the cover member on the frame. The lock member is set up such that the lock tab has a smaller lateral displacement from the center of rotation of the pivoting lock member in the engaged position than in the insertion position. At least one frictional member is configured to be connected to the cover member and extend through the pivoting lock member to frictionally hold the pivoting lock member in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Allen C. Hager, Steven F. Goodman