Task-area Type Repositionable Component (e.g., Modular Booth, Workstation, Or Concession Stand) Patents (Class 52/36.1)
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Patent number: 7565772Abstract: 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. The framework includes at least two vertical posts and at least two structural beams rigidly, yet detachably interconnecting the vertical posts. Connectors secure the beams to the posts, such that the partition system can be assembled and disassembled manually. The partition system may include utility troughs shaped to retain wires, cabling, etc. therein to provide power and/or communication to the system. The utility troughs have opposite ends shaped to be detachably mounted to the posts.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2005Date of Patent: July 28, 2009Assignee: Steelcase, Inc.Inventors: Michael L. Waalkes, Marcus K. Pressnell, Mark T. Slager, Michael R. Shields, Brian J. Kane, Robin Christopher, Dennis J. Boyle, Charles A. Seiber, Peter N. Skillman, Joseph Chang, Richard S. Hand
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Publication number: 20090173016Abstract: A partition system for office spaces generally includes a framework and a plurality of different types of decorative and/or functional tiles mountable to the framework. The framework includes I- and C-shaped vertical frame members which are adjustably joined by upper and lower horizontal spanners such that the distance between the vertical frame members is adjustable. Also, the framework may include other types of vertical frame members for forming L-, T-, or X-junctions within the partition system framework. A variety of decorative and functional tiles are mountable to the framework, including retractable workspace tiles, several types of storage tiles, display tiles, window tiles, and electrical and data services tiles.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2009Publication date: July 9, 2009Applicant: KIMBALL INTERNATIONAL, INC.Inventors: Keith E. Metcalf, J. Douglas Mitchell
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Publication number: 20090145050Abstract: A self-contained plug-and-play furniture system is ready to host state-of-the-art technology within a portable, autonomous and expandable structure so that a person may work, play and communicate at optimum efficiency. The assembly of the system begins with a primary unit including a desk work station. The primary unit is fully equipped for electric power, voice and data connection and includes multiple power outlets, as well as data and voice outlets. The primary unit is expandable both vertically and horizontally by attaching prefabricated sections, as needed, including a sliding door section that completes assembly of an interior environment of the furniture system. Insulated wall, ceiling and floor panels fit within openings of the exterior frame structures of the primary unit and prefabricated sections to provide privacy and, when fully assembled, to enclose the interior environment.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2008Publication date: June 11, 2009Inventor: Ronald Dugand
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Patent number: 7540115Abstract: A partition system for office spaces generally includes a framework and a plurality of different types of decorative and/or functional tiles mountable to the framework. The framework includes I- and C-shaped vertical frame members which are adjustably joined by upper and lower horizontal spanners such that the distance between the vertical frame members is adjustable. Also, the framework may include other types of vertical frame members for forming L-, T-, or X-junctions within the partition system framework. A variety of decorative and functional tiles are mountable to the framework, including retractable workspace tiles, several types of storage tiles, display tiles, window tiles, and electrical and data services tiles.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2004Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.Inventors: Keith E. Metcalf, J. Douglas Mitchell
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Patent number: 7537030Abstract: A modular patient room includes a plurality of modular wall panels or units having various configurations. In some embodiments, the modular wall units have water dispensers. Headwall units having water dispensers are also disclosed. The water dispensers are configured to filter water or to sterilize water.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2007Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.Inventor: Dennis J Gallant
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Publication number: 20090100769Abstract: A prefabricated bathroom assembly and methods for its manufacture and installation are disclosed. For example, a prefabricated tub and/or shower assembly may be provided. In some embodiments, the prefabricated assembly may include at least a bathtub or a shower pan, tile surround(s), and a ceiling. The prefabricated assembly may be constructed substantially entirely off-site relative to a construction site and shipped to the construction site, for example, in substantially a single piece. Finishing face trim for making a seamless transition from the prefabricated assembly to the adjoining walls and ceiling may also be provided. In other embodiments, at least partially prefabricated panels (e.g., 3 wall panels and 1 ceiling panel), a tub or shower pan, the face trim, and/or other components may be shipped separately to the construction site for on-site assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 11, 2008Publication date: April 23, 2009Applicant: Eggrock, LLCInventors: Jeffrey L. Barrett, Adam Hedgcock
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Publication number: 20090038236Abstract: A desktop including a first portion and a diagonal portion oriented diagonally with respect to the first portion. Both the first portion and diagonal portion each have a top surface, a bottom surface opposite said top surface, a plurality of side surfaces, and first and second longitudinal axes, respectively, that substantially bisect each portion. The first portion and diagonal portion are oriented so that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are diagonal to one another. The desktop also includes a return portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces. The return portion is joined with the first portion and has a third longitudinal axis that substantially bisects the top surface of the return portion. The third longitudinal axis is substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 20, 2008Publication date: February 12, 2009Inventor: David A. Murray
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Patent number: 7469512Abstract: A fabricated wall system employs a plurality of modular wall sections that may be coupled to laboratory benches, cabinets or the like, within the laboratory environment. Each modular wall section comprises a frame including an upper frame portion having one or more slots formed therein for receiving demising panels. The demising panels provide a wall surface within the upper frame portion for demising or separating the laboratory environment into distinct areas. The lower frame portion includes a slot for receiving demising panels removed from the upper frame portions, thereby providing for self-storage of the panels behind the laboratory bench.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Assignee: Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska by and behalf of University of Nebraska Medical CenterInventors: Mike Faber, Chuck Niemeyer
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Patent number: 7461480Abstract: A slide out room is glidingly supported from a main structure by a flexible tension member defining first and second lengths, each length trained about a set of rotatable support members carried by the main structure such that the tension member supports the room from the rotatable support members in both its extended and retracted positions. A tensioner connected to the tension member is used to adjust the tension in the tension member. A leveler carried by the room includes a longitudinal adjustment member that engages the tension member, whereby the room may be leveled relative to the main structure by adjusting the adjustment member.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2004Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Inventor: Stewart E. Gardner
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Patent number: 7454867Abstract: In a structure for supporting components of a wall, one lower profile section is shaped to form longitudinal recesses and an operating unit is associated with the lower profile section base, and removably coupled at top to at least one structural element. The operating unit has one foot, shaped to form at least one protrusion for coupling, when the operating unit is rotated about a vertical axis, with the longitudinal recesses by engagement at least of the protrusion with a matching portion of the recesses, thus forming a bayonet joint between the operating unit and the lower profile section.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2006Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Metal Work S.r.l.Inventor: Bruno Nicoletti
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Patent number: 7457730Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating the decoration of an area, and particularly a surface such as a wall in a room, are provided. A user may view a virtual impression of the placement of selected artwork on a particular wall. The user provides an image of the area to be decorated, along with a reference scale associated with the area, to a server. The user views and selects an image of an artwork object from an available selection of artwork images, the artwork image having a corresponding size of the artwork object. The image of the artwork is scaled such that the ratio of the size of the artwork object and the size of the artwork image substantially corresponds to the ratio of the size of the area to be decorated and the size of the area image. The scaled artwork image is then overlayed on the area image and may be viewed by the user to provide a simulated image of the area and artwork.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2005Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Inventor: Donald A. Degnan
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Publication number: 20080282620Abstract: A portable deck adapted for outdoor use includes a base forming a floor with retaining rails attached by hinges to a side and an end of the base pivotable between a use position extending upwardly and a storage position folded toward the floor. The deck may be supported on a plurality of extendable-retractable wheels. A foldably supported shelf may be attached to the top of at least one of the rails. Brace members with pivoting central joints may be angularly disposed between the deck floor and a post that forms the rail assembly to support it in an upright position and between a post and a shelf to hold it in a level position. Alternatively, a locking rod is positioned in brackets attached to the deck perimeter to entrap the rails between the rod and the deck to releasably retain them in an upright position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2008Publication date: November 20, 2008Inventor: Artis DELONEY
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Publication number: 20080236054Abstract: An architectural system adaptable to patient acuity level has a headwall unit with a cavity, a ceiling unit, and a column coupled to the ceiling unit. The column is movable between a first position in which at least a majority of the column is situated in the cavity and a second position in which the column is situated outside the cavity. Various types of patient-care equipment is also disclosed. The patient-care equipment is included in, or is coupleable to, one or more of the ceiling unit, the headwall unit, or the column.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 9, 2008Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Dennis J. Gallant, Dennis M. Lanci, John P. Biondo
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Publication number: 20080236053Abstract: A display system for casket selection comprises a back wall, actual utilitarian and ornamental casket features mounted to the back wall, and a display adjacent the back wall. The display is operable to display facsimiles of the actual utilitarian and ornamental casket features.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 29, 2007Publication date: October 2, 2008Inventors: Jerry David Adams, Curt Allen Bingham, Troy Brake, Brian Carl Gard, Joseph Leo Giesey, Nicholas Kaiser, Gary Joseph Paul Munchel, Daniel J. Parker, Richard Strohmier, Mark Steven Williams, Vernon Charles Wolski
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Publication number: 20080184630Abstract: The present invention relates to a facility for manufacturing non-roadable buildings. The facility includes an enclosed area having a roof and a plurality of bays for positioning the non-roadable buildings therein, each of the plurality of bays is configured to have one non-roadable building positioned therein and being at least partially enclosed and separated from each other of the plurality of bays. The facility further includes an exit positioned adjacent each of the plurality of bays configured to allow the non-roadable building positioned therein to pass therethrough when the non-roadable building is substantially complete and lifting devices positioned within the enclosed area and configured to move elements for manufacturing of the non-roadable building through the facility, including movement of the elements to each of the plurality of bays.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2007Publication date: August 7, 2008Inventors: James Rhodes, Matthew Priddy
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Patent number: 7406803Abstract: A multi-media workstation having a master rail system for permitting horizontal adjustment of the various components of the workstation. The workstation generally includes a console having a work surface and a master rail system for supporting various audiovisual equipment. The master rail system includes a rail extrusion connecting at least two frames and having a longitudinal slot formed in at least one of its surfaces. The various components of the workstation each include a finger engaged in the longitudinal slot of the rail extrusion, wherein the component is able to be horizontally translated along a length of the rail extrusion.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2006Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: Forecast Consoles, Inc.Inventor: William G. Haberman
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Publication number: 20080178537Abstract: A modular manufacturing station is provided. The modular manufacturing station has a plurality of beams forming a skeleton and being capable of extension and retraction. The modular manufacturing station also has at least one utility connection for receiving external utilities. Additionally, the modular manufacturing station has at least one piece of manufacturing equipment. Furthermore, the modular frame has a control system configured to regulate operation of the manufacturing equipment.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 31, 2007Publication date: July 31, 2008Inventors: John M. Spangler, Mark E. Dietz
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Patent number: 7398626Abstract: The invention relates to a module for building platforms, stages, or flooring, which is particularly suitable for use outside. The module comprises a ladder-type frame, supporting devices, connecting means and, preferably, covering elements.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Inventor: Hubertus Greschbach
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Patent number: 7392621Abstract: An architectural system adaptable to patient acuity level has a headwall unit with a cavity, a ceiling unit, and a column coupled to the ceiling unit. The column is movable between a first position in which at least a majority of the column is situated in the cavity and a second position in which the column is situated outside the cavity. Various types of patient-care equipment is also disclosed. The patient-care equipment is included in, or is coupleable to, one or more of the ceiling unit, the headwall unit, or the column.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2006Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.Inventors: Dennis J. Gallant, Dennis M. Lanci, John P. Biondo
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Patent number: 7386960Abstract: A modular supporting structure is intended to support juxtaposed panels in order to form a modular partition wall adapted to subdivide and define a space to be used as an office into independent working zones. The modular supporting structure comprises a lower cross member, a plurality of intermediate cross members, an upper cross member and a plurality of upright spacers, with each upright spacer interconnecting a pair of adjacently arranged cross members. Only one joining element is provided for interconnection of each intermediate cross member to a pair of lower and upper upright spacers, respectively, at their point of concurrence, in order to form a supporting structure consisting of a framework of rectangular elementary cells intended to frame the juxtaposed panels.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2003Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: Unifor S.p.A.Inventor: Piero Molteni
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Patent number: 7377078Abstract: A workstation (desk) 7 that can be assembled or disassembled without the use of tools or fasteners, mounted on casters 40, with adjustable integrated privacy enclosure panels 8, 10, 12, 14. In an open plan work environment a user of the workstation (desk) can create private, semi private and open personal workspace by pivoting the integrated privacy enclosure panels 8, 10, 12, 14, easily roll the workstation (desk) 7 to another location without disturbing other workstations (desks) 7, and create new workstation (desk) 7 configurations by connecting workstation together using the integrated privacy enclosure panels 8, 10, 12, 14 as common connecting elements. Thus a considerably more versatile workstation is provided that can enable users the ability to immediately create a multitude of workstation configurations and arrangements to suit their long term and immediate needs.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2006Date of Patent: May 27, 2008Inventors: Michael John Golino, Zlatan Vukosavljevic
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Publication number: 20080110104Abstract: A large-capacity booth for the treatment, in particular for the spraying and/or drying, of workpieces, in particular motor vehicles, rail vehicles, aircraft or watercraft, having at least two opposite booth walls and one booth ceiling is described. The booth walls each have at least two vertical supports composed of open sectional elements, which are connected to one another via wall elements. The booth ceiling has at least two lattice beams extending in a planar manner in the vertical direction and composed essentially of open sectional elements. The lattice beams connect mutually opposite supports of the booth walls in such a way that the booth walls and the booth ceiling stabilise one another.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2007Publication date: May 15, 2008Applicant: EISENMANN ANLAGENBAU GMBH & CO. KGInventor: Rainer Benzinger
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Publication number: 20080098663Abstract: A sound attenuation enclosure comprising a plurality of panels positioned side by side one another forming an enclosure about an operating device that generates noise. The panels are supported by a plurality of columns, and are separable from the columns so the enclosure and its components are transportable. The panels and columns may have an enclosed inner chamber filled with a sound retardant material.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2006Publication date: May 1, 2008Inventor: Robert Vaughan Seel
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Publication number: 20080005974Abstract: A portable lactation module in which a mother can breastfeed or change her baby in private and in safety within a public space. The module includes a comfortable seat and a changing table in which the mother can breastfeed and then change her baby inside the module. The module includes side walls and at least one door with one-way glass or frosted glass that will allow the mother to see outside but prevent people from the outside to see clearly the mother inside in order to provide for privacy. Across from the seat and under the changing table is an opening for a baby stroller to be parked. The opening allows for the mother to access items from the stroller from inside the module without having to bring the stroller inside the module. A stroller locking device is provided for inside the module to prevent the stroller from the removed from the opening while the mother is inside.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2007Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventors: Mary Carmen Delgado Vazquez, William Diaz-Lopez
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Publication number: 20080000171Abstract: A portable workstation includes wheels, a tabletop, a generally planar member and a chassis joining the wheels, the tabletop and the planar member. While joined to the wheels and the tabletop by the chassis, the planar member is movable between a protracted position and a retracted position. A majority of the planar member extends above the tabletop in the protracted position, and a majority of the planar member does not extend above the tabletop in the retracted position.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2006Publication date: January 3, 2008Applicant: BRADYQUIN, LLCInventors: Jodi McKay, Robert McKay, Brett Rhinehardt, Daniel Lee Bizzell, Ian D. Kovacevich, Tom Philpott
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Publication number: 20070294953Abstract: A cubicle work space organizer is provided in the form of an accessory support surface having a first portion defined by a shelf with leading and trailing edges and a light transmissible region therebetween and a second portion defined by an outwardly projecting tray with both portions being supported from a cubicle wall by the releasable coupling of a rearwardly projecting mounting bracket to a set of vertically aligned, cubicle wall retention slots to position the accessory support surface between a desktop and a lighting source for selectively removing accessories from the desktop and organizing them on the accessory support surface while enabling the transmission of light onto the desktop through at least a portion of the shelf.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 26, 2006Publication date: December 27, 2007Inventor: Ruby Guillen
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Publication number: 20070283630Abstract: Among other things, a mounting system is provided comprising at least one column having top and bottom ends and defining a vertical axis. Each column has internal wall portions which define at least one channel therein extending parallel to its vertical axis, an outer channel portion opening to its exterior surface, and an inner channel portion extending inwardly. Mounting brackets, each having a first detent member, are positionable within the channel, and engagable with the internal wall portions for fixing themselves against rotation. A longitudinal rail member is slidably positionable within the channel parallel to the vertical axis and has a first set of indexing means arranged along it. At least one support bracket has a main body portion and a second set of one or more indexing means thereon matable with the first set so as to releasably mount the support bracket on the column in indexed relation thereto.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2006Publication date: December 13, 2007Applicant: TAYCO PANELINK LTD.Inventors: Dakota KASDORF, Simon STANESCU
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Patent number: 7249624Abstract: A post and beam furniture system having a plurality of horizontally-extending beams having a longitudinally-extending T-shaped first channel and a longitudinally, T-shaped second channel, and a plurality of vertical posts each having a lower portion thereof adapted to be abuttingly supported on a floor surface of an office space, and an upper portion thereof adapted to be connected with the horizontally-extending beams, and a longitudinally-extending T-shaped channel. The channels of the beams and posts receiving a plurality of connectors and accessories, including a multiple bracket post and beam connectors, a T-nut connector, and T-connector, an infill panel, a horizontally-extending two-part wire manager, a vertically extending wire manager, a vertically adjustable worksurface, a transactional surface, a swivel support for supporting a post thereon, and a universal utility hook.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 2004Date of Patent: July 31, 2007Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Mark A. Zeh, James R. Yurchenco, Peter S. Macdonald, Karl H. Mueller, Jonah L. Houston, Ari T. Adler, Stephen J. Senatore, Steven L. Atkins, Ana T. Chang, Todd A. Pelman
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Patent number: 7210270Abstract: An elevated raceway for routing utility lines in a vertically spaced relationship above the upper edge of a partition. The raceway includes an elongated passageway configured to retain utility lines in a horizontally extending manner. A first support member extends downwardly from the raceway, and has a connector spaced apart from the raceway a first vertical distance. The connector is configured to attach to a partition frame. A second support member extends downwardly from the raceway, and has a connector spaced apart from the raceway a second vertical distance that is different from the first vertical distance, such that the raceway is supported at a generally uniform vertical height above an upper edge of a partition having sections with different heights.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2000Date of Patent: May 1, 2007Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Jonathan J. King, Joel T. Ruiter, David J. Dekker, James D. Houda
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Patent number: 7197851Abstract: A door for a telepresence display booth having improved acoustics comprises a projection screen frame and a projection screen. The projection screen is coupled to the projection screen frame and comprises a trapezoidal surface. A viewing surface of the projection screen is oriented such that a normal vector for the viewing surface comprises horizontal and vertical components. An accessible telepresence display booth having improved acoustics comprises a surround screen and a door assembly for accessing the display booth. The surround screen provides a viewing surface for rear projecting an immersion scene to a user. The surround screen is configured such that a normal vector for the surround screen comprises horizontal and vertical components. The door assembly is coupled to the surround screen and provides access to the display booth through a portion of the surround screen.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2003Date of Patent: April 3, 2007Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.Inventors: Norman Paul Jouppi, Vaughan Stanton Thomas
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Patent number: 7174678Abstract: A modular patient room includes a plurality of modular wall panels or units having various configurations. In some embodiments, the modular wall units have water dispensers. Headwall units having water dispensers are also disclosed. The water dispensers are configured to filter water or to sterilize water.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2002Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.Inventor: Dennis J. Gallant
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Patent number: 7174851Abstract: An animal display and habitat assembly having a number of modular animal display units coupled together to enclose a common access area, each of the display units including an outwardly facing display frame with a viewing section between opposing upright members and laterally disposed transition members that include first sections coupled to the upright members and second sections projecting inwardly from their respective first sections to provide a pair of door jambs across which an access door may enclose a display compartment or may be opened into the common access area.Type: GrantFiled: August 10, 2004Date of Patent: February 13, 2007Assignee: North America Pet ProductsInventors: Ronald K. Bonner, Eric R. Knudsen
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Patent number: 7165360Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention employ a modular room including a plurality of modular room components (e.g., anchor assemblies, upright assemblies, etc.). These anchor assemblies and upright assemblies can take different forms permitting assembly of a modular room or modular structure in different manners, and in some cases provide for interchangeable interior and exterior wall panels and components. In some embodiments, a bracket assembly is coupled to an substantially vertical elongated upright for improved strength and stability. Preferably, the anchor assembly has a base plate with at least one edge at an angle with respect to the rest of the base plate for additional strength. If desired, the vertical position of the upright with respect to the base plate can be adjusted. In some embodiments, one or more overhead trusses are used to stabilize the walls of a modular room.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2003Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Assignee: L & P Property ManagementInventor: Steven C. Thompson
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Patent number: 7150127Abstract: A partition system for office spaces generally includes a framework and a plurality of different types of decorative and/or functional tiles mountable to the framework. The framework includes I- and C-shaped vertical frame members which are adjustably joined by upper and lower horizontal spanners such that the distance between the vertical frame members is adjustable. Also, the framework may include other types of vertical frame members for forming L-, T-, or X-junctions within the partition system framework. A variety of decorative and functional tiles are mountable to the framework, including retractable workspace tiles, several types of storage tiles, display tiles, window tiles, and electrical and data services tiles.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2003Date of Patent: December 19, 2006Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.Inventors: Robert A. Underwood, Keith E. Metcalf, Ryan A. Herbig, J. Douglas Mitchell
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Patent number: 7125088Abstract: A multi-media workstation having a master rail system for permitting horizontal adjustment of the various components of the workstation. The workstation generally includes a console having a work surface and a master rail system for supporting various audiovisual equipment. The master rail system includes a rail extrusion connecting at least two frames and having a longitudinal slot formed in at least one of its surfaces. The various components of the workstation each include a finger engaged in the longitudinal slot of the rail extrusion, wherein the component is able to be horizontally translated along a length of the rail extrusion.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2005Date of Patent: October 24, 2006Assignee: Forecast Consoles, Inc.Inventor: William G. Haberman
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Patent number: 7117644Abstract: A modular sentry station uses stackable interlocking panels that when assembled provide a ballistic shield. The sentry station can optionally include interlocking ceiling and floor panels that provide a partially enclosed, bunker-type ballistic shield.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2003Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Assignee: Blackwater Target Systems LLCInventor: Jim Dehart
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Patent number: 7040057Abstract: An architectural system adaptable to patient acuity level has a headwall unit with a cavity, a ceiling unit, and a column coupled to the ceiling unit. The column is movable between a first position in which at least a majority of the column is situated in the cavity and a second position in which the column is situated outside the cavity. Various types of patient-care equipment is also disclosed. The patient-care equipment is included in, or is coupleable to, one or more of the ceiling unit, the headwall unit, or the column.Type: GrantFiled: May 23, 2002Date of Patent: May 9, 2006Assignee: Hill-Rom Services, Inc.Inventors: Dennis J. Gallant, Dennis M. Lanci
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Patent number: 7017306Abstract: A containment assembly such as a down flow containment assembly including a barrier means between the processing zone and the operator breathing zone at least a first part of which is provided with flexible gloves for access to and maneuverability in the processing zone.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Carlisle Process Systems LimitedInventor: Martyn Ryder
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Patent number: 6986556Abstract: A multi-media workstation having a master rail system for permitting horizontal adjustment of the various components of the workstation. The workstation generally includes a console having a work surface and a master rail system for supporting various audiovisual equipment. The master rail system includes a rail extrusion connecting at least two frames and having a longitudinal slot formed in at least one of its surfaces. The various components of the workstation each include a finger engaged in the longitudinal slot of the rail extrusion, wherein the component is able to be horizontally translated along a length of the rail extrusion.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2004Date of Patent: January 17, 2006Assignee: Forecast Consoles, Inc.Inventor: William G. Haberman
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Patent number: 6973758Abstract: A structure that can be partially assembled at one location, transported to a site in modules, and then fully assembled into a structure suitable for housing a therapeutic radiation source is disclosed. The modules include reinforced walls that are filled with radiation shielding fill material to form a barrier around a central treatment area. Additional modules are placed over the first set of modules and form a barrier above the treatment room. A door with a selectively retractable threshold provides access to the treatment room. The module including the radiation equipment is included in removable portions so that the radiation equipment can be removed and replaced. The modules also form a patient waiting room and control area separated from the treatment by the barrier.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2001Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: RAD Technology, LLCInventors: Gary Zeik, Eric Landau, Joe Don Garrison, Cheri Ann Oquist, Ronald C. McCarthy, Theodore M. Engelhart
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Patent number: 6944993Abstract: A modular office panel comprises a panel that has outer peripheral frame members made of formed tubes. The tubes have outer edge walls, side walls, and inner edge walls that are positioned to the interior of the frame. The inner edge walls are formed of side flanges that overlap in the center and which are welded together to enclose the tube and make it rigid. A fabric retainer channel is welded to the inner edge wall of each frame tube and has wall portions that extend outwardly from outer sides of the tube and side walls spaced from and generally parallel to the side walls of the tube. The fabric retainer channel side walls have edge portions extending inwardly back toward the tube side walls and which inwardly turned edge portions include teeth for retaining fabric in place. The fabric retainer channel has a base wall with tabs that extend inwardly from the inner wall and which are used for holding a central divider wall in place within the periphery of the panel formed by the frame members.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2003Date of Patent: September 20, 2005Assignee: Rosemount Office Systems LLCInventors: Larry M. Jilk, Danny A. Thompson
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Patent number: 6941716Abstract: A wall panel tile connector is disclosed. The connector includes an elongated bracket with groups of openings and a number of clips which are attached to the bracket by use of the openings. The bracket has a first portion with an U-shaped cross section, a middle portion with an offset and a second portion. The offset has a slot-like opening and the second portion includes two smaller openings, the three openings being grouped to allow attachment of a clip. Each clip is generally U-shaped with a base and two legs, and a bent tab and offset fingers. The slot-like opening receives one of the legs of the clip. The offset fingers engage in the smaller openings and create an interference fit with the bracket. The tab is resilient and enables the tile to be engaged with a wall panel frame.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2002Date of Patent: September 13, 2005Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.Inventor: Mark A. Kottman
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Patent number: 6931795Abstract: A work environment providing a work area and a workstation including the information display system are also disclosed. A utility distribution system is also disclosed. An information display system is further disclosed. The work environment may provide a work space that can be arranged or divided to include at least one work area within the available floor space. The utility distribution system includes a utility threshold may be adapted for movement along a predefined path about the work area to selectively deliver utilities to at least one portion of the work area. The utility distribution system may be selectively positioned for use in a variety of locations relative to a track system. The information display system may include a track system adapted to attach to a mounting structure and a plurality of display panels coupled to the track system for movement with respect to the mounting structure.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2001Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Mark A. Baloga, Carl V. Forslund, III, Thomas G. Feldpausch
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Patent number: 6922949Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: April 18, 2003Date of Patent: August 2, 2005Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Paul T. Cornell, Robert J. Luchetti, Gregg R. Draudt, Kurt S. Bodden, Linda K. Zimmer
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Patent number: 6889477Abstract: A modular wall panel assembly includes a generally rectangular preassembled frame having a generally horizontal lower channel member and a base rail secured to the lower channel member in parallel spaced relation thereto. Two opposed floor glide assemblies are secured to the base rail and each includes an upwardly directed threaded stem configured at their upper ends to be rotated by a suitable rotary tool. An aperture is provided in the lower channel member in registry with each stem. The frame can thus be leveled on a floor by inserting a rotary tool vertically through the apertures and rotating the threaded stems as desired. Thereafter, decorative or other panels may be conveniently installed on the frame to substantially conceal the floor glides.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2000Date of Patent: May 10, 2005Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.Inventor: Mark A. Kottman
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Patent number: 6871465Abstract: A modular system includes a first panel having a first channel and a second panel having a second channel. A first coupler is mounted in the first channel, and a second coupler is mounted in the second channel. Each coupler includes a middle portion extending from the base and having an edge rounded at least locally to a thickened end of the edge. The middle portion has a length extending beyond the first channel in which the coupler is mounted and into the second channel when the first panel is abutted with the second panel. The couplers are mounted in opposing fashion to cause interference among the thickened ends when the panels are abutted.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2003Date of Patent: March 29, 2005Inventor: Mathew G. LaBruzza
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Patent number: 6857712Abstract: A multi-media workstation having a master rail system for permitting horizontal adjustment of the various components of the workstation. The workstation generally includes a console having a work surface and a master rail system for supporting various audiovisual equipment. The master rail system includes a rail extrusion connecting at least two frames and having a longitudinal slot formed in at least one of its surfaces. The various components of the workstation each include a finger engaged in the longitudinal slot of the rail extrusion, wherein the component is able to be horizontally translated along a length of the rail extrusion.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2003Date of Patent: February 22, 2005Assignee: Forecast Consoles, Inc.Inventor: William G. Haberman
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Patent number: 6854217Abstract: A workstation includes at least one vertical wall that is pivotable between an open and a closed position. In the closed position, wires that are behind the pivotable wall are concealed from view. In the open position, easy access is provided to the wires for re-arranging or changing the wires. The pivotable vertical wall includes at least one horizontal work surface that extends forwardly. A stationary vertical wall may be positioned adjacent the pivotable wall and may provide partial support for another horizontal work surface that extends forwardly from the stationary wall. The stationary wall may include a pivotable panel that allows easy access to wires positioned behind the stationary wall. A top shelf may extend across both the pivotable and stationary walls and include apertures positioned behind the plane defined by the two walls so that wires can be inserted through the apertures to the space behind the walls.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2002Date of Patent: February 15, 2005Assignee: Nucraft Furniture CompanyInventors: Robert J. Bockheim, William Frederick Schacht, Linda Elizabeth Chesser Schacht, Scott E. Carpenter, Michael G. Fedrigo
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Patent number: 6851226Abstract: A freestanding partition panel for dividing a floor space includes a rigid partition frame having vertical side frame members and first and second horizontal frame members extending between the vertical side frame members to form a vertically enlarged opening through the frame, and an open space within the panel. At least one intermediate horizontal cross member extends across the vertically enlarged opening and defines upper and lower openings through the frame. The intermediate cross member and at least a selected one of the first and second horizontal frame members include a plurality of horizontally spaced apart attachment locations defining a plurality of discrete, serially adjacent mounting spaces. The partition panel further includes a utility unit that is mountable in a selected one of the mounting spaces.Type: GrantFiled: February 15, 2002Date of Patent: February 8, 2005Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Bruce G. MacGregor, Juan Carlos Bruce Novoa, Larry Cheng, Energy Cruse, II, Thomas B. Eich, Jesse A. Fourt, David M. Gresham, Alex T. Grishaver, Joseph Lishing Hei, Matthew D. Inouye, Katherine J. Kuchenbecker, James N. Ludwig, Sven D. Newman, Todd A. Pelman, Alexey Salamini, Franz Niklaus Schulz, Benjamin J. V. Tarbell, Scott A. Whitman, David M. Webster
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Publication number: 20040250480Abstract: Accessories are provided that may be used in a workspace to make the workspace more useful and convenient. A monorail attached to a top surface of a workspace panel is provided. A privacy screen, a light reflecting screen, a linear light, a flexible light and storage units may be attached to the monorail. A panel tile with apertures through a surface of the tile is also provided. A display tray, a document holder, a storage tray, a pencil holder, a disk holder, a bundle clip, a document gripper and a file organizer may be attached to the panel tile using connecting hooks inserted into the apertures. A fabric frame tile with a semi-transparent screen is also provided that diffuses light into the workspace and that may support tacks. A wire management cleat is also provided that may be attached to an underside of a worksurface for storing excess lengths of wire.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2004Publication date: December 16, 2004Applicant: Herman Miller, Inc.Inventor: John Matthai