Cubicle Type; I.e., Spaced From Floor Or Ceiling Patents (Class 52/239)
  • Patent number: 6079173
    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: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael Robert Shields, Brian Joseph Kane, Robin Christopher, Dennis J. Boyle, Peter N. Skillman, Charles A. Seiber, Joseph Chang
  • Patent number: 6079172
    Abstract: Dividing element in panel form to produce partitions and presentation facilities for temporary displays.Dividing element in the form of a panel placed upright and intended to be detachably fitted to other elements to form a partition or division, specifically for temporary displays.The element is composed of a thin structure equipped with deformations (10, 11) emerging from the principal plane (P) of the panel in the thickness direction, having a repetitive shape in at least one direction of the principal plane (P), the tops of the deformations comprising elementary surfaces (202) situated at least partially in an auxiliary plane (PA1, PA2) corresponding to one face of the element and of a screen (12) in at least one auxiliary plane (PA1, PA2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: Guy Gilbert Chenel
  • Patent number: 6076308
    Abstract: A partition panel system including a partition frame with vertically spaced horizontal frame members defining first discrete attachment locations, a pair of horizontally spaced blades adjustably attached to selected ones of the first discrete attachment locations, the blades including opposing inner surfaces defining vertically spaced second discrete attachment locations, and shelves adjustably attached to selected ones of the second discrete attachment locations. This allows the shelves to be horizontally and vertically adjustably supported on the partition frame in a selected one of a variety of positions. At least one shelf has a front portion with edges that extend partially around in front of the blades, thus providing increased surface area. The shelves are supported on the blades by shelf supports. Connectors on the ends of the shelves are movable between engaged and disengaged positions for securely engaging the shelf supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: LaDene S. Lyon, Joylene M. Battey, Kurt P. Dammerman, Michelle L. Lindale, Anthony A. Stachowiak
  • Patent number: 6076317
    Abstract: Workstations are defined using a combination of office panels and bridge arrangements which are attached to and project at an angle from a spine of office panels. The office panel frames which partially define a workstation provide the convenience of power and communication cabling within the panel frames. The bridge arrangements provide a lower cost alternative defining other walls of the workstation while also providing a system which can be rearranged easily. The bridge arrangements are preferably self supporting in an upright orientation and can easily be detached from a horizontal securing channel of an office panel frame and moved to a new position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Assignee: Teknion Furniture Systems Limited
    Inventors: John Hellwig, Jonathan Liberty, Lorie Marangoni
  • Patent number: 6076323
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are rapidly assembled walls and columns, wherein the walls and columns are made of wasted wooden material, wood, marble, lime stone, tile, compressed stone powder FRP, glass, calcium silicate plate, while the inner components are made of metals as steel, stainless steel, and aluminum alloy, and reinforced plastics, carbon fiber and fire-proof plastics.The method of assembling rapidly assembled walls and columns comprises A, B, C, D and E five assembly modes, these modes are commonly characterized by applying an idea of exquisite, simple and progressive through making use of wooden block principle. Every person who is an amateur in construction work can construct his own house in DIY way according to the steps illustrated and using materials provided in the present invention. The products made of the present invention may be used as inner and outer walls, columns, interior decoration, landscaping articles, sound isolation member, security fence and ceiling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2000
    Inventor: Fu Sung Chiu
  • Patent number: 6073399
    Abstract: A combination overhead support system and accessory board includes at least one freestanding post disposed in a substantially vertical position. The post includes at least one longitudinally-extending connector portion. At least one beam is supported at least in part by the post in a substantially horizontal, overhead position. An accessory board having at least one side face configured to removably support articles thereon and opposite first and second marginal side edges is normally disposed in a generally vertical orientation. The first side is detachably connected to the connector portion of the post to support the accessory board on the post in a cantilevered fashion. The second side edge is substantially free, and unsupported by the overhead support system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Shipman, Paul D. Hurley, Robert C. Coon
  • Patent number: 6067762
    Abstract: An integrated prefabricated furniture system is provided for fitting-out a building space of the type having a generally open plan interior defined by fixed walls. The furniture system includes a wall-covering frame, freestanding partition frames, and floor-to-ceiling frames that can be interconnected to subdivide the building space. The wall-covering frame is constructed to be positioned against and selectively cover portions of the fixed walls, and the portable partition system and the floor-to-ceiling frames are constructed to spatially divide the building space into a plurality of work areas, with at least one of the freestanding partition frames having an end abutted against the wall-covering frame. A plurality of cover panels is removably attached to the wall-covering frame and to the freestanding partition frames for covering the wall-covering frame, the freestanding partition frames, and the floor-to-ceiling frames.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Ernest P. Greer, Robert J. Luchetti, David A. Shipman, Jack A. Tanis, Gregg Robert Draudt, Anne C. Ackerly, Michael Tingley
  • Patent number: 6061972
    Abstract: A portable divider wall including a wall member of a lightweight foam material and two foot supports or feet located along a bottom portion of the wall member for supporting the wall member in an upright position. The foot supports each include a recess in which the bottom portion of the wall member is disposed, and a projection which projects into the interior of the wall member to removably secure the foot to support the wall member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventor: Clarkson S. Thorp
  • Patent number: 6058667
    Abstract: A knock-down transparent module includes a module frame with a pair of vertical side frame members, each having an upper end and a lower end. Upper and lower horizontal frame members have opposite ends and extend generally horizontally between the vertical side frame members adjacent the upper and lower ends thereof and interconnect the same adjacent the upper and lower ends to define a central opening through the module frame. A transparent sheet is secured to the module frame and extends across the central opening. The module frame defines outer faces having at least one hook shaped to engage an opening in a partition frame member, thereby permitting the module frame to be removably supported within a partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas B. MacDonald, Theodore Q. Chau, Kevin J. Longhurst, Richard S. Hand
  • Patent number: 6052958
    Abstract: A space-dividing wall panel system having a plurality of upright wall panels serially connected one with the other by an intermediate upright support post. The height of each wall panel is adjusted by modular panel extension assemblies which are mounted on base panels supported by lower support posts and include extension posts connected to the lower support posts so as to be arranged coaxial therewith. Spaced apart pairs of the extension posts are connectable to a cross rail at upper ends thereof which defines a downwardly extending generally U-shaped extension frame. A serially adjacent pair of extension frames shares a common extension post which is connected to both of the cross rails thereof, where the base panel and the extension panel assembly disposed thereon respectively define base and beltline raceways for workstation cabling. Additional extension posts can be inserted into the upper ends of extension posts already positioned so as to vertically extend the height of the wall panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Wayne Miedema, Robert Fox, Richard Klamforth
  • Patent number: 6047509
    Abstract: A panel used for display purposes comprises a frame having corner members that are molded in identical halves and snapped together. The corner members are provided with T-slots along the outer edges that will receive slidable members. A detent extends into the T-slot to engage the slidable members slid into the T-slot to hold them in position. The corner members include tangs for receiving extrusions for forming edge frames for the panel, with the corner members holding the frame in an assembly. The corner members have receptacles for receiving pins or shanks that can be latched in place with a latch member sliding in the T-slot on at least one of the legs of the respective corner member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Media/Graphics, Inc.
    Inventor: Troy S. Savoie
  • Patent number: 6039294
    Abstract: A support leg has a unitary one-piece molded body which includes an upper fitting portion to be fitted into a vertical side of a partition wall. The upper fitting portion has two opposing vertical plate portions, a plurality of U-shaped bends which extend from the vertical plate portions to bend about a common vertical axis and which are spaced vertically, a plurality of horizontal grooves defined by the adjacent bends, and limit blocks formed on the vertical plate portions within the horizontal grooves. A lower sleeve portion extends downward from the upper fitting portion and has a female screw portion adjacent to the upper fitting portion, and a tubular portion with a bore of uniform cross-section that extends coaxially downward from the female screw portion. A horizontal abutment portion projects from the lower sleeve portion below the upper fitting portion for abutting against the bottom end of the partition wall. The horizontal abutment portion has an engagement groove and an engagement projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Inventor: Waterson Chen
  • Patent number: 6023889
    Abstract: An adjustable wall jamb is disclosed which can compensate for a variety of variations in wall structures when fitting a panel member thereto. One adjustable wall jamb is for a shower enclosure and affords a channel into which a portion of the wall panel is sealed, and thus provides a "floating" type seal without contacting an end of the adjustable wall jamb. The adjustable wall jamb is formed as a support post and is telescopingly fitted into a stud jamb. In an alternative embodiment, there is a one-piece adjustable wall jamb having securing flanges and sealing fingers formed as a one-piece unit. This can be utilized in conjunction with the square fitment of a panel to a wall, a corner construction, or an angled construction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2000
    Assignee: Kohler Co.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Husting, Thomas A. Bonnell
  • Patent number: 6012258
    Abstract: A dominant and secondary component cooperate with an office panel frame to define a light transmitting port through the office panel frame. The dominant component is supported by the office panel frame and the secondary component is supported by the dominant component. The dominant and secondary components cooperate to provide improved safety features and more effectively distribute accidental forces to the office panel frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2000
    Assignee: Teknion Furniture Systems Limited
    Inventors: Mortimer Brown, Ian B. Kuznick
  • Patent number: 6009676
    Abstract: A partition system includes a first partition having a face and a horizontal row of slots accessible through the face, and a second partition having an abutting end adapted to be positioned adjacent the face. The first partition includes a frame and covers on the frame that define a horizontally extending gap for accessing the slots. A connector for interconnecting the abutting end to the face includes a one-piece U-shaped clip having a pair of legs forming a first end with opposing hooks configured to securely horizontally engage the slots in the face, and having an intermediate section forming a second end configured to securely engage the abutting end. The intermediate section is resilient such that the legs can be flexed together to an install position for insertion into a selected slot and can be flexed apart to a retaining position where the hooks are positioned to securely engage the selected slot in the first partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Developement Inc.
    Inventors: Michael J. Feldpausch, Stephen J. Feldpausch, William K. Hofman
  • Patent number: 6009675
    Abstract: A knock-down portable partition system has cover panels supported on a post and beam framework designed for quick and easy on-site manual assembly without tools. The framework includes at least two vertical posts with at least two beam connection ports on opposite side faces adjacent upper and lower portions of the posts. Each beam connection port has a window through the side face of the post, and first and second horizontally aligned fastener apertures in front and rear faces of the post adjacent opposite sides of the window. At least two structural beams rigidly, yet detachably interconnect the vertical posts at the upper and lower portions thereof. Each end of each of the structural beams is shaped for close reception in an associated post window, and includes a vertically oriented, transverse notch through a lower portion of the beam in which a lower edge of the post window is closely received to longitudinally lock each beam in its associated post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2000
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael R. Shields, Brian J. Kane, Robin Christopher
  • Patent number: 6003275
    Abstract: A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Paul T. Cornell, Robert J. Luchetti, Gregg R. Draudt, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
  • Patent number: 6003273
    Abstract: A floor-to-ceiling partition wall system includes a plurality of partition panels, each having panel frames interconnected along opposite side edges thereof. The partition panels have cover panels mounted on opposite side faces thereof to form a partition wall having substantially planar side surfaces. A utilities infeed panel has an infeed panel frame with opposite vertical side edges that are interconnected with side edges of adjacent partition panel frames such that the infeed panel forms an integral portion of the partition wall. The infeed panel frame defines first and second opposite side faces, and a vertically-extending central space connected to an opening in the ceiling. A first cover panel is connected to the first side face. A second cover panel is removably connected to the second side face of the infeed panel frame, and closes off the central space. The second cover panel permits access to the central space for utilities management upon removal of the second cover panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Michael D. Elsholz, Robert E. Jeffers, Karl J. Mead
  • Patent number: 6000179
    Abstract: A partition construction is provided for subdividing a building workspace wherein a first panel has a first frame with a horizontal top frame member and a vertical first side frame member, a second panel has a second frame with a horizontal bottom frame member and a vertical second side frame member, and a connection system for connecting the first and second panels in a stacked arrangement to form a first partition stack. The connection system includes at least one stacking connector which has fastener apertures proximate to each end of the connector. The fastener apertures in the stacking connector are in a predefined pattern identical to the fastener aperture pattern in the first and second side frame members. The connection system also includes a horizontal rail adapted to vertically align the top frame member of the first panel and bottom frame member of the second panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Musculus, Robert E. Jeffers, Peter S. Macdonald
  • Patent number: 6000180
    Abstract: A partition construction includes a partition frame having a frame member. A cover panel covers a side of the partition frame. The partition includes a connection system on the cover panel that releasable attaches the cover panel to the partition frame. The connection system includes a plurality of top clips on the cover panel adjacent an upper edge that positively engage the partition frame. The connection system further includes a plurality of bottom fingers extending below a lower edge of the cover panel and engaging at least a selected one of a lower cover panel and a frame member located below the cover panel in a juxtaposed relationship.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Steven F. Goodman, Kenneth D. Brickner, Allen C. Hager, Daniel V. Constantino
  • Patent number: 5996287
    Abstract: A storage partition adapted for partitioning an area proximate a corner or along a flat wall having a partitioning means selectively repositionable between (a) a first position wherein access to the area is prohibited and (b) a second position wherein unimpeded rolling access to the area, via a floor surface, is permissible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Inventor: Donald H. Sullivan
  • Patent number: 5992124
    Abstract: A ceiling shoe and pilaster mounting system for a ceiling, where the pilaster mounting system includes a pilaster which is attached to a ceiling bracket which in turn is attached to the ceiling. The pilaster ceiling shoe is used to cover the top end of the pilaster and the ceiling bracket up to the ceiling. This ceiling shoe includes front and back shoe halves which are identical and mated together. Each shoe half has (a) a planar main wall which is oriented vertically, (b) a first side which is oriented vertically and which has a free vertical inner flange which is stepped inwardly from a remainder of the first side leaving an outer cutout, and (c) a second side which is oriented vertically and which has a free vertical outer flange which is stepped outwardly from a remainder of the second side leaving an inner cutout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Assignee: Santana Products, Inc.
    Inventor: Kirk R. Robinson
  • Patent number: 5979118
    Abstract: An expandable/contractible furniture component is configured for attachment to a partition system to provide an adjustable structure adapted to adjust with the partition system as the partition system is adjusted to provide different office sizes. The furniture component includes a corner shelf attached to the partition system, and in-line shelves also attached to the partition system. The in-line shelves are telescopingly adjustable into the corner shelf so that the plan dimensions of the shelves are adjustable concurrently with the partition systems to provide storage surfaces and shelves that extend and completely fill at least one dimension of the office. An in-line telescoping straight shelf construction and a two-way telescoping corner shelf construction are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 9, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Steven C. Gortsema, Thomas B. Eich, David P. Churchill, Charles A. Seiber, Frank Freidman, Jonathan J. King, Douglas G. Lyon, Douglas B. MacDonald
  • Patent number: 5974742
    Abstract: An integrated wall, archistructural and desk and panel system comprises a series of modular units that integrate into a variety of configurations with a minimum number of components. The desk and panel system comprises a base wall formed of interconnected modular wall panels having a desk back panel formed of modules of the same height and width and appearance as the base wall panels, so the back of the desk can comprise a section of the base wall. The top of the desk is recessed from the vertical support members and back panel of the desk so that modular upper wall panels can be mounted on the back panel and vertical support members, as well as on the base wall panels, to selectively increase the height of the wall panel system and to create a peripheral enclosure for the desk. A hollow transverse desk support beam and hollow inclined frame members provide wiring access to the desk top.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Inventors: Charles P. Schreiner, Travis M. Randolph
  • Patent number: 5970662
    Abstract: A system for subdividing a building space into work areas includes interconnectable partition panels, each having an internal frame with a plurality of horizontal frame members located at predetermined heights. The horizontal frame members each have at least one horizontal row of slots, and at least one of the horizontal frame members is located slightly above an optimal worksurface height for supporting an interactively used datum shelf. Furniture components are attachable to the horizontal frame members at selected horizontal positions, including the datum shelf, an undershelf storage unit, and an upper storage unit. A mobile furniture unit is provided having a worksurface located at an optimal worksurface height, the worksurface having a cantilevered edge section that can be extended partially under the datum shelf at a selected optimal depth for coordinated and efficient use of the datum shelf concurrent with using the worksurface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.
    Inventors: Sean M. Corcorran, Charles Anthony Seiber, Robert P. Arko, Frank Friedman, Leon D. Segal, Jonathan J. King, Karl J. Mead, Paul B. Siebert
  • Patent number: 5966879
    Abstract: The privacy screen provides a simple, effective solution to provide visual privacy for the traditional open workstations of office panelling systems. The privacy screen can easily be retrofitted to existing systems without the need for specialized panels or overhead mounting structure at an opening threshold. The privacy screen is mounted to overlap with a face of a panel adjacent a panel and extend there beyond to close the entryway to the workstation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 19, 1999
    Assignee: Teknion Furniture Systems
    Inventors: Steve Verbeek, Lorie Marangoni, Harry Ayvazyan
  • Patent number: 5950386
    Abstract: A wall construction for subdividing building space includes a pair of interconnected frames forming a rectangular arrangement, the interconnected frames having abutting vertical side edges and non-abutting vertical side edges, and a removable cover for covering a portion of the interconnected frames, the cover including cover vertical side edges, the cover being removably supported on the interconnected frames. In one form, the cover spans the abutting vertical side edges of the interconnected frames with at least one of the cover vertical side edges being located between the non-abutting vertical side edges. In another form, the cover vertical side edges are both located between the non-abutting vertical side edges of the interconnected frames, and further both are misaligned with the abutting vertical side edges.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: David A. Shipman, Robert J. Luchetti, Gregg R. Draudt, Charles A. Seiber, Phillip M. Hobson, Benjamin G. Shaw, James B. Eldon, III, David D. McClanahan
  • Patent number: 5950371
    Abstract: A furniture system for fitting-out a building room of the type having a generally open plan and having an associated floor surface includes an overhead framework including a plurality of horizontal beam segments interconnected to form a rigid structure configured to be spaced above the floor surface. A plurality of support columns, each has an upper portion connected with the overhead framework, and a lower portion shaped to abut the floor surface to support the overhead framework in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation above average user height. Each of the support columns further includes at least three vertical edges defining substantially planar faces therebetween. At least two of the vertical edges have a plurality of slots therein for supporting office furniture items and office accessories. A shelf is mounted to one of the support columns and is supported thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Eric C. Rives, Joyce S. Bromberg
  • Patent number: 5943834
    Abstract: A furniture system for outfitting a building space, includes a plurality of partition frames, each having horizontally spaced apart uprights with opposing sides, and having horizontal frame members connecting the uprights. A top one of the horizontal frame members is one-piece and attached to a top of the uprights. The top one horizontal frame member includes opposing side faces that are spaced apart a distance greater than the opposing sides and that include cover-supporting connectors. Cover panels are provided having frame-engaging connectors extending horizontally beyond an inside surface of the frame. The frame-engaging connectors are configured to releasably engage the cover-supporting connectors. This allows the cover panels, when attached to the partition frames, to define an internal cavity in the frame that extends horizontally a width of the frame and vertically substantially the height of the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Jeffers, Melissa A. DuBuis, Scott M. Miller
  • Patent number: 5942984
    Abstract: A utility distribution system is provided for modular furniture of the type comprising individual furniture units which are juxtaposed to form one or more workstations. A signal conductor is positioned in each furniture unit, and extends generally between opposite sides thereof. Quick-disconnect connectors are provided at the opposite ends of each of the signal conductors, and mate with like quick-disconnect connectors in adjacent furniture units to create a communications network through the workstations. Each furniture unit has a signaler physically associated therewith, which is connected with an associated signal conductor at a coupler. A network controller is operably connected to the network to evaluate the network and/or the associated furniture units. The furniture units may be equipped with one or more utility ports, which are connected with the coupler, and service utility appliances, such as personal computers, telephones, facsimile machines, switches, power outlets, data receptacles, and the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: John Shackelford Toms, Steven M. Brown, William L. Miller, George V. Weller, Scott H. Russell, Joseph R. Branc, David C. Sweeton, Matthew M. Mikolajczak
  • Patent number: 5930963
    Abstract: A panel system includes a rigid generally rectangular frame assembly formed from a pair of spaced upright members and a plurality of transverse members connecting the upright members. One of the transverse members is positioned intermediate the ends of the upright members and has a generally H-shaped configuration in cross-section. A generally elongate channel fits within the intermediate transverse member and has an upwardly projecting portion which is narrower in width than the transverse member. The projecting portion serves to provide for the mounting of electrical devices and also creates a light stop when decorative tiles are used to form a gap or slot in the frame assembly for passage of electrical cables and wiring into the interior of the frame assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: HON Technology Inc.
    Inventor: Robert K. Nichols
  • Patent number: 5921040
    Abstract: A freestanding panel assembly for a modular office system is provided. A support frame includes top and bottom horizontal rails rigidly secured to a pair of vertical supports. A trough is attached to the top horizontal rail to provide a first cable pathway and a pair of feet are attached to the bottom horizontal rail. The feet provide a ledge to support a panel skin attached to the frame and define a second cable pathway for the panel assembly. The feet also include a leveling means. In a second embodiment, intermediate panel skin supports are attached to the frame, and define a third cable pathway therebetween. A top cover plate, bottom cover plate and beltway cover plate are removably attached to the frame. In this way, redesign and reconfiguration of the office panels are easily accomplished.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul A. Glashouwer, David P. Noel, Walter C. Mrotz, III, Thomas A. Langworthy, Thomas E. Bruce
  • Patent number: 5918422
    Abstract: A vertically sliding adjustable office panel system that allows each panel to change height individually or in unison by virture of a panel within a panel sliding assembly. The panels are connected side by side to form office cubicles. The space dividing system adjusts vertically by inserting or removing connectors. This system allows a closed office cubicle system to become a partially or completely open workstation by raising or lowering any or all of the panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventor: Robert Joseph Bucher, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5913783
    Abstract: An extendible and contractible support pole assembly for clamping engagement with and extension between a floor and a fixed ceiling. The upper portion of the pole assembly has a releasable clamping structure which is disposed above a drop ceiling and permits the pole assembly to be extended into clamping engagement with the fixed ceiling. The post assembly is provided with structural flanges extending longitudinally therealong to enable other components such as clamps or brackets to be attached thereto so as to permit other office accessories to be mounted in association therewith.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Weener, Barry Lee Andersen
  • Patent number: 5906079
    Abstract: A partition construction includes a partition frame and a markerboard having a flat, dry erasable markerboard surface that erasably receives an erasable medium. The partition further includes top and bottom brackets for attaching the markerboard to the partition frame. The bottom bracket defines a bottom channel that receives a bottom edge of the markerboard. The top bracket defines an opposing top channel that engages a top edge of the markerboard. The top bracket includes an inner component attached to the partition frame and defining an inner portion of the top channel. The top bracket further includes an outer component that is attached to the inner component and defines an outer portion of the top channel. The outer component is configured to be secured after the markerboard is set on the bottom bracket and is pivoted into engagement with the inner components so that, when secured, the outer component, the inner component, and the bottom bracket capture the markerboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase, Inc.
    Inventors: Kenneth D. Brickner, Steven F. Goodman, Daniel Grabowski, Matthew C. Roe
  • Patent number: 5905229
    Abstract: A modular panel partition system has a number of partition panels, each with opposing top and bottom edges, with opposing side edges that are adapted to releasably couple with a panel connector, and with an upper portion and an adjoining lower portion that extends between the upper portion and the bottom edge to define a wire-way. The panel connector has an elongated one-piece body that defines a post, has at least two sides that are adapted to releasably couple with a side edge of a panel to couple adjacent panels, and has an aperture that extends through the at least two sides of the panel connector. The aperture is aligned with the wire-ways of the panels and is adapted to pass conduits between the panels. The one-piece post extends from the bottom edge to the top edge of the panels. The aperture in the panel connector may extend through a bottom end of the panel connector. The panel connector post may also be hollow and adapted to pass conduits through the hollow portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Inventors: Mark A. McKitrick, David V. Middleton
  • Patent number: 5901513
    Abstract: A modular work station has spaced uprights that support a work surface, and a divider panel extending between the uprights. A communication cable channel extends between the uprights and has a passageway accessible for laying in a communication or other type of cable. At least one of the uprights has a recess that opens to an edge of the upright and aligns with the passageway in the communication cable channel such that a communication cable can extend through the recess to an adjacent modular work station. A cover member covers the opening in the upright channel to ensure that the cable is enclosed and yet can be laid in without threading it through openings in such uprights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Rosemount Office Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Lloyd C. Mollenkopf, Russell J. Rein, James Hennan, Brian A. Pleschourt
  • Patent number: 5901512
    Abstract: An office partition panel is electrically attached to an adjacent panel and/or a power source line. The panel has a body to be mounted upright on a lower edge having an elongated weldment forming a channel opening upwardly. Frame elements engage between the body and the weldment, spacing the channel from the body and from a lowermost channel forming the lower edge of the panel. The weldment provides lateral access to the channel for laying in wiring. An electrical fixture such as an outlet receptacle is mounted along the channel, and the channel supports the electrical wiring terminating at the electrical fixture. The wiring path leads from the channel in one panel to an adjacent panel and a bridge channel element attaches to the weldment to extend the channel across a gap between the adjacent panels. A cover strip removably mountable on the lower edge covers the channel laterally for enclosing the electrical wiring, and a bridge cover strip covers the bridge channel element across the gap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 11, 1999
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventor: Wallace C. Bullwinkle
  • Patent number: 5899035
    Abstract: A knock-down portable partition includes a 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 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 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. The upper and lower beams interconnect the vertical posts adjacent the connection ports. The panel frame includes quick-disconnect connectors such as movable lock wedges positioned on one of the posts and the beams adjacent the connection ports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Mark T. Slager, Brian Joseph Kane, Marcus K. Pressnell, Michael Robert Shields, Robin Christopher, Dennis J. Boyle, Charles A. Seiber, Peter N. Skillman, Joseph Chang
  • Patent number: 5899025
    Abstract: An integrated prefabricated furniture system is provided for fitting-out a building room of the type having a generally open plan interior and having at least one utility source. The furniture system includes a plurality of horizontal beam segments interconnected in an end-to-end fashion to form a rigid overhead framework configured to be positioned above the floor surface. A plurality of overhead support columns each have an upper portion rigidly connected with the overhead framework, and a lower portion shaped to support the overhead framework on a floor in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation above average user height. Each of the overhead support columns includes an interior support structure in a generally X-shaped plan-form defining vertical raceways between adjacent legs of the cross-section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel S. Casey, Ronald A. Dykstra, Carl V. Forslund, III, Peter C. Greenberg
  • Patent number: 5896710
    Abstract: An acoustic panel system is provided for partially acoustically isolating a portion of a space in, for example, a recording studio. The acoustic panel system is modular in design and includes a plurality of different sized acoustic panels which can be assembled together in various configurations to form complete or partial acoustically isolated areas within a space. The acoustic panel system includes wall mount members, wall panels, floor panels, ceiling panels, transparent viewing panels and door panels. The wall mount members are basically partial members either permanently or removably interconnected with the walls of a space. The wall panels can be interconnected with the wall mount members. The wall panels may include casters for facilitating the movement thereof, and may also include feet for supporting the panels on uneven flooring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: Charlie Hoyle
  • Patent number: 5897325
    Abstract: A method for developing cognitive and motor skills in students comprising the steps of providing a thinking-learning-creating cubicle having a plurality of walls forming an enclosed space. The walls are operative to substantially prevent visual and auditory stimuli from sources disposed exteriorly of the walls from penetrating the enclosed space, thereby reducing distractions to a student positioned within the enclosed space. A learning interface in electrical communication with an interactive teaching apparatus is disposed within the enclosed space which is configured to direct the student's attention toward the learning interface. Communication means are provided which permit communication between an individual positioned within the enclosed space and an individual positioned exteriorly of the enclosed space. The method also includes the step of selecting a learning task for a student to execute within the enclosed space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Inventor: Karen S. Koby-Olson
  • Patent number: 5886295
    Abstract: A modular mounting system for the delivery of office utilities from a utility distribution system of an office partitioning system to a worksurface positioned in an individual workspace includes a mounting rail having an upper portion shaped for abutting attachment to a bottom surface of the worksurface and further includes a lower mounting portion defining at least one mounting aperture therein. A utility distribution bracket is abutted to the lower mounting portion wherein the bracket includes a base and an upper frame connected to the base defining therein a cavity shaped to closely receive a utility distribution block. The base and frame further define at least one aperture for user access to the utility distribution block.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 23, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventors: Phillip D. Carino, Steven C. Deer, Paul A. DenHartigh, Peter Ehling, Michael J. Everhart, Gareth H. Hendricks, Alan F. Mauer, Kevin M. Stanley, David A. Walz
  • Patent number: 5881500
    Abstract: A distribution duct for power distribution wiring, data communication wiring, and the other wiring is mounted between adjacent perforated support columns of a work space system. The duct extends laterally from the columns to allow the wiring to pass the face of a column. The duct includes an inner elongated member which rests at each end in a perforation in a respective column. A resilient clip holds each end of the inner member in the perforations. The inner member has an open side that is covered by an elongated outer member that is coextensive with the inner member and extends laterally away from one side of the columns. The outer member is snapped in place on the inner member, and covers snap in place on the outer members to connect the ends of adjacent outer members. An identical inner member may be mounted to the rear of a first inner member and receive a similar outer member to form a two-sided duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Applied Power Inc.
    Inventors: Richard M. Latino, Patrick K. Beck, Edmund T. Paquette
  • Patent number: 5881518
    Abstract: This invention relates to an upright partition for use in a modular office furniture system, the partition comprising: a frame comprising: two vertical posts each having outward opposing faces defining spaced apart parallel forward and rearward planes; a plurality of horizontal beams, at least one beam in each said plane, each beam having an inward face and an outward face, the inward face of each beam being connected to one said outward face of an associated post in an overlapping moment resisting connection; and a plurality of cladding panels each connected to one said beam; whereby an internal cavity is defined inward of the outward faces of said beams, and a raceway is defined outward of said outward post faces and inward of the outward faces of said beams.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Hollanding Inc.
    Inventors: John R. Edwards, Richard J. Palmer
  • Patent number: 5875597
    Abstract: A space-dividing screen assembly comprising a pair of height-adjustable support posts and a flexible fabric screen having the opposite ends thereof connected to the support posts. The support posts include vertically movable outer tubes to which the opposite ends of the screen are connected. Vertical movement of the outer tubes permits adjustment of the height of the screen. The outer tube is rotatable so as to allow winding up of the flexible fabric onto the outer surface of the outer tube. Also, additional screens can be suspended from the support posts while the opposite free ends of the screens are supported by additional support posts to provide a readily adjustable privacy screen arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Bryan Gingrich, David Fik, Keith Foco
  • Patent number: 5875594
    Abstract: A hinged access door is secured to an office panel frame to be removable for full access to the interior of a panel frame or movable about hinge axis to also provide access to the panel frame without removing the access door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Teknion Furniture Systems
    Inventors: John Hellwig, Steve Verbeek, Ian Kuznick
  • Patent number: 5875596
    Abstract: A panel structure comprises a frame members defining the perimeter of the panel structure. The frame members have a first side facing outwardly of the panel structure and an opposed side facing inwardly. A panel member extends between the frame members and is engagable therewith. The panel member comprises an inner honeycomb core constructed from cellulosic material and having a pair of opposed side faces and a pair of opposed side panel members having a first side facing outwardly of the panel structure and an opposed side facing inwardly. Each of the opposed side faces is affixed to a respective side of the honeycomb core. The side panels are constructed essentially from material which, when not affixed to the honeycomb core, is non-structural and, when affixed to the honeycomb core, has a tensile strength sufficient to prevent compressive movement of the opposed side of the honey comb core.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Assignee: Global Upholstery Company
    Inventor: Vlad Muller
  • Patent number: 5873205
    Abstract: A moveable panel is described for providing privacy for a person in a work station or other location behind an arrangement of one or more stationary panels. The privacy panel is suspended from a pair of linear bearings which ride along a horizontal carrier rod mounted to the top edge of the stationary panel by a pair of hanging brackets. The linear bearings are attached to the privacy panel near its trailing edge so that the privacy panel can be moved to close an entryway adjacent the stationary panel. The entire assembly is preferably made of lightweight materials and can be easily mounted onto an existing stationary panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Assignee: Advantage Office Systems, LLC
    Inventors: Jerry C. Hanlon, Everett T. Bahre, Terrance G. Kissinger
  • Patent number: 5867955
    Abstract: A partition system is provided for subdividing a building space. The partition system includes different partition panels interconnectable in one of in-line, "X", "T", or "L" shaped arrangements by a connection system that simulates a "post" type connection, but which does not include vertically extending upright components. The connection system includes vertically spaced joint brackets for connecting the panels in the selected arrangement. The joint brackets each have sides with threaded connectors and barbed notches on each side. Vertically spaced frame brackets are used to rigidly connect the frame sections to the joint brackets. Trim pieces are constructed to securely engage the barbed notches on unoccupied sides of the joint brackets when there is a gap formed by absence of a panel on the unoccupied sides.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Assignee: Steelcase Inc.
    Inventor: Scott H. Russell