Interfitted Trim Plate Patents (Class 52/242)
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Patent number: 6751913Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 18, 2001Date of Patent: June 22, 2004Assignee: The Wiremold CompanyInventors: John R. Marrotte, Richard R. Picard, Jr.
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Patent number: 6748710Abstract: A partition and wall system includes a partition with trim piece(s) securely attached to a top edge and vertical side edges of the partition. One or both of the trim piece(s) have a T-slot running along their length, to which accessories can be secured by use of T-fasteners that extend into the slot and engage blind surfaces at a bottom of the slot. The accessories include such things as screens, hooks, lights, panels, shelves, wire managers, utility-using devices, and the like, and can be easily arranged by office workers in optimal and customized arrangements, thus improving efficiency and adding function and value to the office arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: June 15, 2004Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: David M. Gresham, James N. Ludwig, Karl J. Mead, Karl Heinz Mueller
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Patent number: 6729087Abstract: A two-part base molding system includes mounting and molding portions. The mounting portion includes at least one mounting engaging element extending therefrom. The mounting portion has an outer surface, and the mounting engaging element has inner and outer surfaces. The molding portion is mountable to the mounting portion, and includes at least one molding engaging element extending therefrom. The molding portion has a rear surface, and the molding engaging element has inner and outer surfaces. When the molding portion is mounted to the mounting portion, the inner surfaces of the mounting and molding engaging elements substantially abut one another, and the outer surface of the mounting engaging elements substantially abuts the rear surface of the molding portion.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Inventor: Mark J. Sauter
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Publication number: 20040035067Abstract: A support beam and a support frame for an office furniture system which can be used to mount and support a variety of furniture system components and electrical and communication equipment. The support beam has an elongate, hollow lower beam section with a top panel and vertical side panels. An elongate upper beam rail having a top extends parallel to and spaced-apart from the lower beam section. This rail has a plurality of post-receiving holes formed in its top for mounting other components such as a support wall. Spaced apart posts rigidly connect the beam rail to the lower beam section. Rail connecting devices are provided at opposite ends of the beam rail for rigidly connecting it to an adjacent end of another beam rail or to the support frame. The support frame has a horizontal metal beam and two elongate, hollow end frame sections extending downwardly from opposite ends of the beam. A raceway is rigidly mounted on a lower portion of this beam and extends downwardly therefrom.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 26, 2002Publication date: February 26, 2004Applicant: Nova-Link LimitedInventor: Antonius A. Vander Park
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Publication number: 20040020137Abstract: A partition system includes an internally-open partition frame having permanent and removable frame members forming multiple vertical and horizontal wireways, with both lay-in and feed-through wire routing. Utility support brackets are attachable for good wire management. The partition frame supports a wide variety of customizable and functional surface components, including a markerboard wall surface, a slatwall, a colored/covered wall surface, a wall surface including utility outlets, a transparent window. The partition frame includes continuous horizontal and vertical rows of slots that flexibly and adjustably support furniture accessories, such as a worksurface, at selected heights and locations along the partition system. Covers are provided that maintain a very high-quality appearance with uniform lines and gaps. Some covers include adjustable edge-mounted light seals for eliminating light leaks and unsightly areas.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 14, 2003Publication date: February 5, 2004Inventors: David J. Battey, Roy W. Fink, Richard Scott Hand, Joshua W. Hoekstra, Robert E. Jeffers, Michael P. Kelley, Douglas B. MacDonald, Gaylan M. McColley, Karl J. Mead, F. Javier Olivera, William H. Palermo, Todd Pelman, Micah E. Roberts, Mark T. Slager, Steven J. Throndset
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Patent number: 6651396Abstract: This invention relates to a space-dividing wall panel system which includes components which are compatible with various types of wall panels and furniture components therefor. These components include a connector bracket having multiple inserts for supporting furniture components thereon, and an interface assembly also is provided which is compatible with various wall panel systems. A spiral cable manager also is provided for supporting cabling within the wall panels.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2002Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Haworth, Inc.Inventors: Phillip DeRuiter, Pete Beyer, Dave Emery, Robert Tuttle, Kevin Meyer
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Publication number: 20030182885Abstract: A partition and wall system includes a partition with trim piece(s) securely attached to a top edge and vertical side edges of the partition. One or both of the trim piece(s) have a T-slot running along their length, to which accessories can be secured by use of T-fasteners that extend into the slot and engage blind surfaces at a bottom of the slot. The accessories include such things as screens, hooks, lights, panels, shelves, wire managers, utility-using devices, and the like, and can be easily arranged by office workers in optimal and customized arrangements, thus improving efficiency and adding function and value to the office arrangement.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2002Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventors: David M. Gresham, James N. Ludwig, Karl J. Mead, Karl Heinz Mueller
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Publication number: 20030140583Abstract: A two-part base molding system includes mounting and molding portions. The mounting portion includes at least one mounting engaging element extending therefrom. The mounting portion has an outer surface, and the mounting engaging element has inner and outer surfaces. The molding portion is mountable to the mounting portion, and includes at least one molding engaging element extending therefrom. The molding portion has a rear surface, and the molding engaging element has inner and outer surfaces. When the molding portion is mounted to the mounting portion, the inner surfaces of the mounting and molding engaging elements substantially abut one another, and the outer surface of the mounting engaging elements substantially abuts the rear surface of the molding portion.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 25, 2002Publication date: July 31, 2003Inventor: Mark J. Sauter
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Patent number: 6553731Abstract: 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 flaType: GrantFiled: April 11, 2001Date of Patent: April 29, 2003Inventor: Yi-Cheng Hsueh
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Publication number: 20030068205Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 9, 2001Publication date: April 10, 2003Inventor: Ronald Augustine
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Patent number: 6490835Abstract: A vinyl siding wall ornamentation packaged as a self-contained kit including one or both of an already assembled vinyl siding design, and a plurality of vinyl siding strips to be assembled according to predetermined plan, for overlaying the wall in substantially watertight securement.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2001Date of Patent: December 10, 2002Inventor: William G. Simmons
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Publication number: 20020157335Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 26, 2001Publication date: October 31, 2002Inventor: Richard L. Vos
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Publication number: 20020088188Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2001Publication date: July 11, 2002Inventor: Ching-Chang Chang
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Patent number: 6389773Abstract: A stackable panel system having a versatile corner supporting arrangement for addition onto existing wall systems for a modular office system. The corners of the stackable panel include a sliding engagement scheme, wherein a mast assembly is secured to a top portion of the wall system by a mast base and slidably engages a central open area of a corner support on the stackable panel by means of a vertically oriented mast upright. Additional panels can be added to the stackable panels by means of intermediate connectors. On the upper portion of the top panel, a corner trim piece covers over the central open area of the top corners. A top connector helps to rigidly secure adjacent stackable panels, either with a T-shaped, L-shaped or X-shaped connection. A perimeter framing system utilizing the corner support arrangement for the stackable panels is also provided. Each of the frame members includes a semi-circular section and a flat section.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2000Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: Knoll, Inc.Inventors: Robert E. Reuter, Wallace C. Bullwinkle, Ronald A. Snyder
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Patent number: 6389778Abstract: A prefabricated modular wall panel brace is used in the construction of long wall for buildings. Each prefabricated modular panel brace is placed beside another framing component between a top plate and a bottom plate. Every other panel maybe inverted with respect to the adjacent panel so that the ends of a diagonal brace in each panel is adjacent to the diagonal brace in the adjacent panel. Each panel may have a movable/swiveling section to accommodate an angled portion of the wall. The modular wall panel brace may be used in single or multiple floor structures for either interior or exterior walls to provide shear or diaphragm bracing of the wall units of a building to provide bracing for wind or seismic loads.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2000Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: Itec Steel CorporationInventor: J. V. Strange
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Patent number: 6357199Abstract: Method of and apparatus for supporting and stabilizing elongated electrical distribution units intermediate first and second elongated generally parallel channels within modular furniture by fixing a plurality of spaced legs to the distribution units with each leg extending transversely to, and in generally the same direction from each distribution unit. A portion of each distribution engages the first channel and a plurality of mounting brackets are disposed intermediate the distribution unit and the second channel with each mounting bracket located adjacent to a corresponding leg. Each leg is fastened to the adjacent bracket at a generally central location of the adjacent bracket when the spacing between the first and second elongated members is near a preferred minimum distance, while each leg is fastened to the adjacent bracket near one end of the bracket when the spacing between the first and second elongated members is near a preferred maximum distance.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2001Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Assignee: Dekko Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Gregg E. Laukhuf, Raymond H. Riner
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Patent number: 6349516Abstract: A frame arrangement for use with an interior space-dividing wall system including portable upright panel assemblies. The frame arrangement includes upright post assemblies in supportive engagement with the floor and a cross members which extend laterally between adjacent pairs of the post assemblies. The cross member mounts thereon a cable trough which may be utilized to carry cabling and to support a power distribution assembly including electrical receptacles for providing the panel assemblies with electrical power. The cross member and cable trough are adapted to prevent rotation of the cable trough during insertion and removal of plugs or jacks from the receptacles.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 1999Date of Patent: February 26, 2002Assignee: Haworth, Inc.Inventors: Mark A. Powell, Peter J. Beyer, Richard G. Haworth
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Patent number: 6345478Abstract: A method of partitioning an office space includes providing an interlocking framework unit including at least one vertical framework configured to receive and support at least one partitioning material, at least one skirting framework configured to receive and support at least one partitioning material, at least one covering framework configured to receive and support at least one partitioning material, at least one window framework configured to receive and support at least one of at least one partitioning material and at least one window and at least one door framework configured to receive and support at least one of at least one partitioning material and at least one door; the interlocking framework unit being configured to form at least one internal conduit for plural cables between adjacent partitioning materials from a ceiling level through the at least one skirting framework positioned at a floor level when assembled and assembling the interlocking framework unit such that the at least one internal coType: GrantFiled: February 2, 2000Date of Patent: February 12, 2002Assignee: Joinwide Investment LimitedInventor: Tak Him Pang
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Publication number: 20010039772Abstract: Method of and apparatus for supporting and stabilizing elongated electrical distribution units intermediate first and second elongated generally parallel channels within modular furniture by fixing a plurality of spaced legs to the distribution units with each leg extending transversely to, and in generally the same direction from each distribution unit. A portion of each distribution engages the first channel and a plurality of mounting brackets are disposed intermediate the distribution unit and the second channel with each mounting bracket located adjacent to a corresponding leg. Each leg is fastened to the adjacent bracket at a generally central location of the adjacent bracket when the spacing between the first and second elongated members is near a preferred minimum distance, while each leg is fastened to the adjacent bracket near one end of the bracket when the spacing between the first and second elongated members is near a preferred maximum distance.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 5, 2001Publication date: November 15, 2001Applicant: Dekko Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Gregg E. Laukhuf, Raymond H. Riner
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Publication number: 20010032432Abstract: A molded skirting board, crown molding, or other decorative moldings simulating natural wood millwork, and a method of molding a loose cellulosic mat, in a single pressing step, to provide one or more relatively high density, skirting boards without requiring preliminary pressing, or other pre-shaping step, such as scalping. The molded articles are molded in a conventional, multi-opening fiberboard press to produce multiple, interconnected parts in a single pressing step process, while achieving excellent transfer of mold detail (embossing fidelity) without visually noticeable fiber fracture. A corrugated or L-shaped, hidden stiffening/positioning member spaces the article from a wall or ceiling to simulate thick, heavier, natural wood millwork.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 31, 2001Publication date: October 25, 2001Inventors: David Paxton, Steven K. Lynch
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Patent number: 6295775Abstract: A raceway structure which is fixedly attached to and extends longitudinally along one horizontally extending edge of a panel assembly. The raceway structure includes a U-shaped channel member which resiliently but releasably snaps into engagement with longitudinally spaced supports which are fixed to and project downwardly from the bottom frame rail of the panel. The supports occupy only minimal space within the channel member. The raceway channel member is provided with increased height relative to its width to provide upper and lower interior channel regions which accommodate power and telecommunication cabling systems. The supports are releasably engaged with upper edges of the channel member and provide the primary support for securing the channel member to the panel.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 1999Date of Patent: October 2, 2001Assignee: Haworth, Inc.Inventors: Thomas J. Osterman, Richard D. Elushik
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Patent number: 6256950Abstract: Method of and apparatus for supporting and stabilizing elongated electrical distribution units intermediate first and second elongated generally parallel channels within modular furniture by fixing a plurality of spaced legs to the distribution units with each leg extending transversely to, and in generally the same direction from each distribution unit. A portion of each distribution engages the first channel and a plurality of mounting brackets are disposed intermediate the distribution unit and the second channel with each mounting bracket located adjacent to a corresponding leg. Each leg is fastened to the adjacent bracket at a generally central location of the adjacent bracket when the spacing between the first and second elongated members is near a preferred minimum distance, while each leg is fastened to the adjacent bracket near one end of the bracket when the spacing between the first and second elongated members is near a preferred maximum distance.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 1999Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Assignee: Dekko Engineering, Inc.Inventors: Gregg E. Laukhuf, Raymond H. Riner
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Publication number: 20010002522Abstract: A raceway structure which is fixedly attached to and extends longitudinally along one horizontally extending edge of a panel assembly. The raceway structure includes a U-shaped channel member which resiliently but releasably snaps into engagement with longitudinally spaced supports which are fixed to and project downwardly from the bottom frame rail of the panel. The supports occupy only minimal space within the channel member. The raceway channel member is provided with increased height relative to its width to provide upper and lower interior channel regions which accommodate power and telecommunication cabling systems. The supports are releasably engaged with upper edges of the channel member and provide the primary support for securing the channel member to the panel.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 1999Publication date: June 7, 2001Applicant: FLYNN, THIEL, BOUTELL & TAINS, P.C.Inventors: THOMAS J. OSTERMAN, RICHARD D. ELUSHIK
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Patent number: 6170211Abstract: A demountable wall system mountable between, but not attached to, the floor and ceiling of a building constructed of a plurality of wall sections, each wall section including at least one upper horizontal framing member having opposed upper and lower slots; a plurality of spaced, parallel vertical framing members having opposed side slots facing side slots of adjacent vertical framing members; at least one horizontal lower member having opposed upper and lower slots; at least one vertical rectangular panel with upper, lower and opposed side edges inserted into facing slots of adjacent framing members; a floor mounting member inserted into the lower slot of the lower horizontal framing member; a vertically adjustable closure member inserted into the upper slot of the upper member to close the space between the ceiling and the upper horizontal framing member; and first and second door jamb attachment plates fitted into facing slots of adjacent vertical framing members for mounting of a door.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1998Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Assignee: Boyce Products Ltd.Inventor: David L. Boyce
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Patent number: 6141925Abstract: A movable transparent panel for reconfigurable office partitions and the like is adapted for floor-to-ceiling applications which include a floor track shaped to be supported on a floor surface, and a ceiling track shaped to be supported on a ceiling surface. A panel frame is supported in a normally vertical orientation between the floor track and the ceiling track. The panel frame has vertically spaced-apart upper and lower horizontal members with a pair of vertical side members interconnecting the upper and lower horizontal members and extending therebetween to define a generally quadrilateral opening. The upper horizontal member is operably connected to the ceiling track, and the lower horizontal member is operably connected with the floor track. A substantially transparent sheet is removably connected to the frame and extends across at least the portion of the opening.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1998Date of Patent: November 7, 2000Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.Inventors: Harold Halvorson, Jr., Gary S. Juhlin, David M. Lewis, James H. Davies, Richard A. Benoit, Robert J. Luchetti, Peter C. Greenberg
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Patent number: 6128877Abstract: A variable width panel includes a frame having a knock-down construction adapted for on-site assembly. The frame includes a first rigid stile adapted to be disposed in a generally vertical assembled orientation along a first side of the frame. At least two rigid cross-members having first ends thereof rigidly attached to the stile are disposed in a vertically spaced-apart relationship, and extend in a generally horizontal assembled orientation. The cross-members having predetermined full width with a construction which permits the cross-members to be cut to a custom width at a second end thereof during the on-site assembly for use in a special width panel that is adapted for connection with the standard width panels. The frame also includes fasteners for detachably connecting the second ends of the cross-members with the second stile to define a pocket therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1998Date of Patent: October 10, 2000Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.Inventors: Steven F. Goodman, Roy W. Fink, Allen C. Hager, James D. Houda, Michael H. Abson
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Patent number: 6125600Abstract: One or more guide members secured to an edge portion of a support or partition member direct conduits or any other elongate object along a predetermined path on the edge portion. The guide members include a body portion that defines an opening through which the conduits or other objects extend and a securing portion that secures the guide members to the support or partition.Type: GrantFiled: June 8, 1998Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: Fisher Hamilton Inc.Inventor: John M. Bastian
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Patent number: 6094875Abstract: A modular wall panel to extend between a floor and ceiling has top and bottom horizontal main runners between two vertical beams, each beam having a foot which rests on the floor, the foot being adjustable to adjust the panel height. A first pair of opposing spaced panels extend between the two vertical beams and have lower edges that rest on the bottom main runner and a lower mid-height runner is mounted on the upper edges of the first panel pair to support a horizontal I-beam extending between the vertical beams. An upper mid-height runner is supported on the upper edge of the I-beam and there are a second pair of spaced opposing panels having their lower edges mounted on the upper mid-height runner supported on the I-beam and their upper edges are held by the main runner. A cover member is provided to cover each face of the I-beam.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1998Date of Patent: August 1, 2000Assignee: Burkiss Inc.Inventor: Michel Laine
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Patent number: 6047508Abstract: A reconfigurable office partition includes a movable panel with a rigid frame, a core panel mounted therein, and at least one cover panel detachably mounted on the frame and enclosing an associated portion thereof. The frame has at least one vertical stile with first and second channels that extend longitudinally therealong and are shaped to receive utilities therein through outwardly opening sides. The outwardly opening sides of the channels are juxtaposed in opposite directions to facilitate routing utilities along both faces of the panel. A variable height frame support may be positioned between the top of the panel and the building ceiling for floor-to-ceiling applications.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 1998Date of Patent: April 11, 2000Assignee: Steelcase Development Inc.Inventors: Steven F. Goodman, Roy W. Fink, James D. Houda, Michael H. Abson, Allen C. Hager
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Patent number: 5901516Abstract: A spacer and tension clip mount a baseboard to a wall in a manner such that the baseboard can be easily removed and then remounted to the wall. Corner modules mount to the baseboards to finish corners without requiring precise cutting to from corner joints.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 1997Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Inventor: Zane D. Watson
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Patent number: 5901514Abstract: An apparatus suitable for adaptation and use either as an exterior foundational base shroud or an interior decorative baseboard. In either case, the apparatus may be used to conceal and protect electrical, communications, or other conduit. The apparatus is suitable for use with a variety of standardized structural panels and may be manufactured through the extrusion process.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1996Date of Patent: May 11, 1999Inventor: Michael J. Wolfe
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Patent number: 5881518Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: June 5, 1996Date of Patent: March 16, 1999Assignee: Hollanding Inc.Inventors: John R. Edwards, Richard J. Palmer
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Patent number: 5839240Abstract: A partition system for subdividing a building space includes a partition frame including a top frame member and intermediate frame members, cover panels releasably attached to the partition frame to cover the partition frame, and a floor channel including an upwardly facing channel for supporting the partition frame. An upper trim system includes a top cap configured to engage and cover the top frame member, and further includes an end cap configured to engage and cover an end of the intermediate frame members, and still further includes a corner piece for aesthetically interconnecting the top cap and the end cap. A lower trim system includes an elongated base trim side piece attached to the floor channel for covering a lower portion of the partition frame, and further includes a base trim end shoe attached to the partition frame for covering an end of the frame along the building floor.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 1996Date of Patent: November 24, 1998Assignee: Steelcase Inc.Inventors: Michael D. Elsholz, Karl J. Mead, Gregg R. Draudt, Steven D. Desmit, William H. Palermo
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Patent number: 5644877Abstract: A ceiling closure above a portable wall (FIG. 6) includes wall panels (14, 15) having upper edges entrained by channels (17, 19) formed of legs (24-27) of a ceiling track. The closure is rendered demountable by having lower panel support channels formed by legs (31, 32) and L-shaped members (33, 34) having a lip (46) with a vertical component interfering with a corresponding lip 47 on a panel support track (36). The L-shaped member is held in place by virtue of the weight of the wall panel which it entrains. One and two panel embodiments are shown; vertical height adjustment (50) is provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 1995Date of Patent: July 8, 1997Inventor: Richard J. Wood
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Patent number: 5630302Abstract: A modular fitting room for retail store use. The fitting room provides side and front panels to define an interior space. A door panel is provided with laterally extending formations which cooperates with studs to prevent viewing of the interior space from outside of that space. Studs for mounting the door panel and for facilitating the assembly of the fitting room are also described.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 1996Date of Patent: May 20, 1997Assignee: Morgan Marshall Industries, Inc.Inventor: Phillip Rosenband
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Patent number: 5603192Abstract: First and second operable wall panel faces are positioned with respect to one another by vertical and horizontal brackets which include corner portions positioning the panel faces in compressed relation with vertical and horizontal flexible vinyl seals extending about the entire perimeter of the panel faces, so as to provide increased impact resistance, reduced noise transmission, and easier manufacture.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 1995Date of Patent: February 18, 1997Assignee: Advanced Equipment CorporationInventor: Wesley B. Dickson
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Patent number: 5471805Abstract: A slip track assembly having a slip track and a non-combustible secondary wall member which together are fastened to an overhead roof structure and slidingly receive the studs and primary wall member of a non-load bearing stud wall so as to provide a desired fire barrier connection.Type: GrantFiled: December 2, 1993Date of Patent: December 5, 1995Inventor: Duane W. Becker
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Patent number: 5401120Abstract: A pumpable mine assembly is provided having a pair of steel support structures forming the front and back surface of the seal. The support structures can be formed by either a row of vertically-disposed steel beams or a cable lattice secured by anchor bolts to the top and bottom surface of the mine entry. A separate wire mesh backing is provided on the inside of each of the pair of support structures. A seal bag placed within the wire mesh backing receives filling material, generally in the form of concrete. The filled seal bag forms a tight seal on the top, bottom and ribs of a mine entry or passageway.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1993Date of Patent: March 28, 1995Inventors: David A. Hussey, William R. Semethy, Jr.
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Patent number: 5355650Abstract: In a demountable office partition system, batten mounts with a base and legs of a resilient hard plastic are snap fit to supporting structures by reason of inwardly directed opposed flanges on the legs. The legs of the batten mounts also have soft plastic externally directed fingers to which a batten may be press fit. Use of the batten mounts permits the batten to be removed without damage. In another embodiment, the base of the batten mounts have a first set of depending inner legs with inwardly directed flanges and a second pair of depending outer legs with outwardly directed flanges outwardly spaced from the inner legs. The batten mount is fabricated of a resilient hard plastic. Again, the batten mounts may be snap fit to a supporting structure. However, in this embodiment, a batten is snap fit to the batten mounts. The batten may be removed from the batten mount without damage due to the resilience of the outer legs.Type: GrantFiled: April 28, 1993Date of Patent: October 18, 1994Inventor: Robert S. Agar
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Patent number: 5274972Abstract: A utility duct for elongated utility members is mountable on a wall structure and includes a retaining strip disposed on the wall structure and a capping member. Upper and lower connectors connect the capping member to the retaining strip to thereby form an internal duct passage for the utility members. The retaining strip has a plurality of supporting walls which together with the retaining strip form gutter-shaped channels for supporting the utility members. At least one of the supporting walls has an outer end formed as a seat which seats against the capping member when the capping member is mounted on the retaining strip by the upper and lower connectors.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1992Date of Patent: January 4, 1994Assignee: Hewing GmbHInventor: Joerg Hansen
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Patent number: 5237786Abstract: A temporary interior wall panel system may be mounted between the ceiling and the floor areas of a building to provide for interior partitioning of building space. The wall panel system includes easily mountable and demountable floor tracks, wall panels, and columns. The wall panels and columns are held in place between the building ceiling area and floor area by screwably adjustable jacks having ceiling and floor bearing plates. The position of the jacks along the length of the wall panels is adjustable.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 1991Date of Patent: August 24, 1993Inventor: Katharine M. Kochansky
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Patent number: 5212918Abstract: A support panel base cover is used with a support panel and a wall panel system. The support panel is mounted to a wall panel and has a bottom edge spaced apart from a floor. At least one vertically adjustable leg is adapted to cooperate with the support panel and the floor to support said panel on the floor. The support panel also is adapted to receive a cover internally therein. The cover is moveable relative to the support panel and the leg and is adapted to rest on the floor. In addition, the cover has a height sufficient to substantially conceal the space between the bottom edge of the support panel and the floor.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 1991Date of Patent: May 25, 1993Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.Inventors: Thomas J. Newhouse, Paul G. Dame
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Patent number: 5203132Abstract: A wall assembly includes a wall frame which is made from a U-shaped support channel in which one end of a wall stud may be releasably engaged by a ratchet engagement formed between the channel and the stud. The ratchet engagement is defined by ratchet teeth provided on the side walls of the channel and splines provided on the sides of the wall stud which splines are shaped to releasably engage the grooves between adjacent teeth. In addition, a door unit is used in the wall assembly which includes a peripheral pocket around the side jambs and top header of the door unit to allow the wallboard to be inserted into this pocket. Fasteners can then be used to secure the wallboard to the flange which defines the peripheral pocket such that the wallboard is connected directly to the door unit, thus obviating the need for side studs secured to the side jambs of the door unit.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 1991Date of Patent: April 20, 1993Inventor: Robert A. Smolik
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Patent number: 5195286Abstract: A ceiling infeed module for a free standing, space dividing, wall panel system which includes, in combination, a ceiling panel for inclusion in a suspended ceiling system, a hollow space dividing wall panel and a tubular member with a removable side cap interconnecting the ceiling panel and the hollow space dividing wall panel by way of a transition. The ceiling infeed module also includes a base shroud for use in concealing the lower portion of the hollow space dividing wall panel and a ceiling escutcheon for use in concealing an aperture cut into the ceiling panel. The tubular member carries electrical and communication service from the plenum area above the suspended ceiling to a free standing, space dividing wall panel system. The tubular member construction enables the electrical and communication service to be installed either before or after the ceiling infeed module is in place.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 1991Date of Patent: March 23, 1993Assignee: Westinghouse Electric Corp.Inventors: Ronald B. DeLong, Allen L. Palmbos
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Patent number: 5195287Abstract: A panel comprising a substantially rigid layer, and a flexible layaer fixed to the rigid layer, the rigid layer having therethrough an endless cut dividing the rigid layer into a main portion and a cut-out portion, the flexible layer connecting the cut-out portion to the main portion and thereby holding the cut-out portion in place relative to the main portion.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 1991Date of Patent: March 23, 1993Assignee: Bemis Manufacturing CompanyInventor: Bradley J. Bruggink
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Patent number: 5146723Abstract: An interior wall mounting device comprising an elongated element having a base plate and at least one side flange projecting laterally from the base plate. The free edge of the side flange is turned inwardly to form a channel opening in a direction normal to the base plate and outwardly therefrom. The channel is adapted to have a plurality of studs securable laterally to the channel and shaped to receive the edge of a planar sheet securable against the studs to form a wall.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1991Date of Patent: September 15, 1992Inventors: Frank D. Greenwood, Kazimir Kobielski
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Patent number: 5088252Abstract: An elongated, extruded, resilient plastic channel member has a flat rear wall for mounting to a vertical building wall and receives an elongated, precut carpet strip. The flat rear wall terminates at upper and lower longitudinal edges respectively in an integral, generally L-shaped lower wall and an integral, reversely directed, arcuate upper wall. Both project outwardly and away from the rear wall and define therebetween upper and lower slots receiving the upper and lower longitudinal edges of a decorative precut carpet strip whose width is sized to the slots and slidably inserted therein. The channel member rear wall is thickened adjacent the connection between the arcuate upper wall and the rear wall to resist flexing of the arcuate upper wall and to prevent release of the grip between the arcuate upper wall, at its free edge, and the pile of the carpet strip.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 1990Date of Patent: February 18, 1992Inventor: Mark D. Antekeier
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Patent number: 5067294Abstract: A partition assembly has a hollow post with an upper open end. The assembly includes a panel having an edge recess and a post clip mounted in the recess for releasably attaching to the hollow post. The assembly also has a top spanner having a central prong sized to fit into the upper open end of the hollow post. This spanner has a pair of panel clips oppositely positioned about the central prong. Each of the panel clips are operable to releasably attach to the top of the panel.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 1990Date of Patent: November 26, 1991Inventor: Bruce McGowan
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Patent number: 5062246Abstract: Partition structure has a rigid rectangular frame and rigid rectangular panels received in openings on opposite sides of the frame, with a small clearance between the edges of the panel and the frame. One panel edge is pivotally connected to the frame. The opposite edge of the panel is held securely on the frame by a resilient U-shaped catch received in a slot in a lip on the frame extending rearwardly of the panel. The tongue can be deflected inwardly to free the shoulder from the lip by introducing a thin-bladed tool through the clearance between the panel edge and the frame, so that the panel can then be rocked outwardly about the pivotal connection to an open position. A secure engagement of the panels on the frame is obtained, so that cables or other electrical equipment are securely housed within the partition. By using a small clearance between the panel at the frame, the tongues holding the panels in place are practically indiscernible and the panel securing arrangement is rendered tamper proof.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 1990Date of Patent: November 5, 1991Inventor: Christopher C. Sykes
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Patent number: 5020290Abstract: A kit structure for erecting an interior wall within a building or the like has been disclosed. More particularly, the structure includes horizontal member to be attached to a floor and ceiling, vertical members extending between the horizontal members to brace panels placed on the wall, support members in the floor-attached member for supporting the panels and trim strips for concealing the other components and edges of the panel.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 1989Date of Patent: June 4, 1991Inventor: Victor J. Hajjar