Connecting Feature For Modular-type Panels Having Article (e.g., Cabinet, Shelf Bracket) Attachment Patents (Class 52/36.5)
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Publication number: 20100088972Abstract: Modular construction panels, systems, and methods of installation are set forth for use in creating buildings. A modular construction panel includes a panel having a height, opposed faces, and opposed generally vertical ends. In one embodiment, a keyway receiver is integral with the panel adjacent one of the ends, and a keyway spline is integral with the panel adjacent the other end. In another embodiment, a keyway receiver is integral with the panel adjacent one of the ends. In still another embodiment, a keyway receiver is integral with the panel adjacent one of the ends. One modular construction system includes first and second panels, each having: a height, opposed faces, opposed generally vertical first and second ends, a keyway receiver at the first end or one of the faces adjacent the first end, and a keyway spline at the second end or one of the faces adjacent the second end.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2008Publication date: April 15, 2010Inventor: Timothy P. Devine, JR.
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Publication number: 20100064597Abstract: An off-module connector system for a partition system detachably connects a first partition with a second partition in a non-parallel, angular relationship at a location on the first partition between the opposite side members thereof. The off-module connector system includes a top connector bracket which engages the attachment slots on the panel frames and a bottom connector bracket which engages an associated rack to securely, yet removably, mount the two partition panels in an off-modular relationship.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2009Publication date: March 18, 2010Inventors: David C. Eberlein, Daniel R. Van Dyk, Michael L. Waalkes, Davinder S. Dhanoa
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Patent number: 7624542Abstract: A shower or bath wall liner panel 1 includes panel sections on either side of a fold 4 down the panel, and opposing non-planar formations 7 and 8 integrally formed in the panel on either side of the fold 4 from which after installation of the liner panel one or more of a shelf, soap dish, flannel rail, or a step 10 may be supported within a shower enclosure or above a bath or which form integrally one or more of a shelf or basket, soap dish, flannel rail, or step.Type: GrantFiled: October 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 1, 2009Assignee: Kohler New Zealand LimitedInventor: John Hatrick-Smith
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Publication number: 20090282756Abstract: An adjustable height backsplash for an appliance such as a cooking range is disclosed. The backsplash includes an upper wall mount mountable to a wall; a lower wall mount mountable to the wall at a selectable distance from the upper wall mount; an upper faceplate mountable to the upper wall mount and including an upper front panel; and a lower faceplate mountable to the lower wall mount and including a lower front panel. After installation, the upper front panel and the lower front panel together substantially cover a continuous portion of the wall.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 16, 2008Publication date: November 19, 2009Inventors: Chidanand Begur, Sheena Leigh Ritchie, Jorge Hinojosa, Heather Ann Thomas
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Publication number: 20090241438Abstract: A modular patient room includes a plurality of modular wall panels or units having various configurations. In some embodiments, the modular wall units have at least one shelf and a flip-down work surface. The modular wall unit optionally may include an integrated computer monitor and a keyboard attached to the flip-down work surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2009Publication date: October 1, 2009Inventor: Dennis J. Gallant
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Patent number: 7571571Abstract: A slatwall profile comprises an upper male and a lower female end portions for interlocking with adjacent profiles to create a slatwall panel. The female end portion includes an attachment wall for attachment to a wall structure and a downwardly disposed longitudinal groove formed by the attachment wall, a base wall formed with a substantially 90° corner with the attachment wall, and a U-shaped return that forms a lip. The male end portion is receivable into the groove in an adjacent profile. The male end portion includes a cover wall that overlies the attachment wall in a spaced apart relationship. The cover wall includes a bulge for being positioned adjacent the corner and is configured to support the cover wall a distance away from the attachment wall. The male end portion includes a transverse wall extending from the bulge, the transverse wall for overlaying the base wall.Type: GrantFiled: February 8, 2008Date of Patent: August 11, 2009Assignee: Megawall CorporationInventor: James Mershon
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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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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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Publication number: 20090011696Abstract: A ventilation device comprises a body (11) having first and second ports (14, 15) and a ventilation passage (13) that extends through the body between the ports to allow airflow through the body. The ventilation device also comprises a noise attenuation device (21) arranged to attenuate noise transmission through the passage in at least one direction from the first to the second port. The noise attenuation device comprises at least one array (22, 23) of noise attenuation tubes disposed in the ventilation body. In one form, the noise attenuation device (21) include two arrays of attenuator tubes disposed on respective opposite sides of the passage (13). The tubes each have a mouth (27) that opens to the passage and a central axis that extends from the mouth in the direction of elongation of that tube.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 9, 2005Publication date: January 8, 2009Inventor: Christopher James Matthews
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Publication number: 20090000235Abstract: Connectors for modular framing systems having T-shaped slots are disclosed. The connectors connect framing members to each other or connect floor panels to framing members. Architectural structures and modular framing systems containing the connectors are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2008Publication date: January 1, 2009Applicant: KieranTimberlake Associates, LLPInventors: Stephen James Kieran, Marilia Beatriz Martelli Rodrigues, Jon Eric Morrison, Vassil Alexandrov Draganov, Edward Paul Boa, Hans Rainer Porschitz, James Timberlake
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Patent number: 7448168Abstract: 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: June 12, 2007Date of Patent: November 11, 2008Assignee: 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: 20080202039Abstract: An improved panel is disclosed. The panel is of the type for use with a bracket and which, in use: forms a wall surface as part of an assembly for partitioning or dividing a space; defines a horizontal groove; and is adapted to releasably, securely, receive, via the horizontal groove, said bracket. The improvement comprises a metal sheet and a metal bolster. The metal sheet has a front and a rear face, the front face defining said wall surface in use and said sheet defining a horizontal slot in use. The metal bolster is secured to the rear face of said metal sheet to define, in combination with the metal sheet, said horizontal groove.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2008Publication date: August 28, 2008Applicant: UNIFOR S.P.A.Inventor: Cesare PICCHIO
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Publication number: 20080197253Abstract: A standard having a base plate that in some embodiments includes a first upturned edge, a second upturned edge, and at least one aperture. A first support can be positioned between the first upturned edge and the aperture, and can extend past a top surface of the first upturned edge. A second support can be positioned between the second upturned edge and the aperture, and can extends past a top surface of the second upturned edge. The upturned portions and supports can be dimensioned such that fasteners used to secure the standard to a surface do not interfere with elements (e.g., drywall, pegboard, display panels, and the like) covering the base plate, and/or such that the supports are at least partially recessed in a surface defined by such covering elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 24, 2006Publication date: August 21, 2008Inventor: Steven C. Thompson
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Patent number: 7398624Abstract: A structural panel for use in building structures or in the formation, finish or decoration thereof includes an outer sheet and a connector sheet with a plurality of collapsible or compressible dividers therebetween. The panel in a rest condition is expanded and of a desired thickness for final use but can be compressed into a relatively thin thickness or profile for shipping purposes. The panel is very lightweight but structurally strong and can be selectively bent in one transverse direction if desired. The panel can be easily cut or formed into any predetermined size or shape.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2006Date of Patent: July 15, 2008Assignee: Hunter Douglas Inc.Inventors: Paul G. Swiszcz, Ko Kuperus, Wendell B. Colson, Jason T. Throne
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Patent number: 7310918Abstract: A wall spine assembly for a modular office system comprises a plurality of individual panel assemblies. Each of the panel assemblies includes a vertical support structure and mechanically affixed lower panels in a rigid box-beam structure. Facing panels are removably attached to support brackets mounted on the vertical supports. A cavity exists between the facing panels and vertical supports to permit the lay-in of cabling through the office system. A crown member is provided on the top of the vertical support and is adapted to receive brackets for the mounting of accessories above a desk or other work surface attached to the panel. The panels, and especially the crown, permit the mounting of office components such as shelves, storage cabinets, lighting fixtures and the like anywhere along the horizontal length of the wall. A horizontally telescoping vertical end post is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 11, 2000Date of Patent: December 25, 2007Assignee: Knoll, Inc.Inventors: Robert E. Reuter, Charles P. Rozier, Jr., Wallace C. Bullwinkle
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Patent number: 7299594Abstract: An apparatus for at least one of providing a decorative shelf, decorative framing, decorative shelving, decorative paneling and a decorative member for supporting and hanging preselected articles. The apparatus comprises a panel member formed with a brick like design adjacent an outer surface thereof and having each of a first predetermined shape and a predetermined thickness and at least one of an opening, having a second predetermined shape, formed in the panel member to provide a frame like member for at least one of a mirror and a picture and a means formed in the brick like design for supporting at least one of a shelf and a bracket for supporting and hanging such preselected articles.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2003Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Inventors: Todd E. Chornenky, Daniel Chornenky
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Patent number: 7276270Abstract: In an assembly of modules with magnetic anchorage for the construction of a grid structure, a joining element for connecting rigidly at least a first and a second elongated modules of the grid structure, characterised in that it comprises: a body of the joining element; at least a first and a second tubular projections of the body for axial attachment of the first and respectively second elongated modules; and a housing of the body for securing the body to a further module of the grid structure; the at least first and second tubular projections being in direct communication with the housing for contact of the further module to the at least first and second elongated modules.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2002Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Claudio Vicentelli
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Patent number: 7185460Abstract: A free-standing panel wall system adapted for selectively and adjustably mounting wall panels on either or both sides thereof. The wall system includes generally a plurality of horizontally disposed rails, a plurality of vertical supports carried on either or both sides of the horizontal rails, and a registration mechanism for selectively positioning the horizontal rails and vertical supports relative to each other. Each of the horizontal rails defines a plurality of equally spaced-apart first openings. Each of the upright supports defines a plurality of equally spaced-apart second openings. The first and second openings cooperate to receive conventional fasteners such that the horizontal rails are incrementally adjustable along the vertical supports, and the vertical supports are incrementally adjustable along the horizontal rails.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2005Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Inventor: David A. Corden
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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: 7104023Abstract: A wall organizer comprises a first slatwall member secured to a wall, the first slatwall member having a plurality of first grooves having a first center-to-center groove spacing between said first grooves; a second slatwall member secured to the wall above or below the first slatwall member, the second slatwall member having a plurality of second grooves having a second center-to-center groove spacing between said second grooves; and at least another first or second slatwall member secured to the wall above or below one of the first and second slatwall members.Type: GrantFiled: October 16, 2003Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Showall, Inc.Inventor: William H. Holztrager
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Patent number: 7003863Abstract: An apparatus for mounting accessories to a panel surface includes at least one accessory interface on the panel surface. An elongate engaging section is recessed within and lies generally parallel to a part of the panel surface. An accessory device has a utility part and an elongate engaging part that is coupled to the utility part. A plurality of the accessory devices and/or accessory interfaces can be provided. An appropriate device and interface are selected. The engaging part is inserted into a portion of the panel interface. The accessory device is slid to an installed position with the engaging part received in the engaging section of the accessory interface.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2002Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignee: Rubbermaid IncorporatedInventors: Erik L. Skov, William F. Croft, Timothy M. Pierzynski, David M. Stitchick
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Patent number: 6883277Abstract: A floor-to-ceiling wall panel system, in which each panel includes a universal frame adjustably attached to a floor track member which rests on a floor surface, the frame additionally including a jack post assembly for releasable connection to a ceiling track fastened to a ceiling. The panel system includes a number of multi-functional components, thereby reducing the number of components in the panel system and facilitating easier installation of the panel system as well its easier modification of the panel system once installed. For example, a single track member may serve as both the floor track and the ceiling track. Also, a single type of spring clip may be used to attach several components to the frame, such as opaque panel skins and window panels, is well as to attach trim pieces to the floor and ceiling tracks, which mask the adjustable connections of the panel frame thereto.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2002Date of Patent: April 26, 2005Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.Inventors: Robert W. Wiechecki, Michael F. Cifelli
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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: 6807784Abstract: 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: November 13, 2002Date of Patent: October 26, 2004Inventor: Yi-Cheng Hsueh
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Patent number: 6807776Abstract: A prefabricated system for outfitting a building space includes an architectural product (such as a full-height permanent building wall, a post-and-beam product with overhead frame, and a drywall-covered wall), a furniture product (such as a partial-height wall, a partition, and a desking system), and a plurality of accessories. The architectural product includes a structural member with horizontal and vertical accessory-mounting T-slots, and the furniture product includes structural trim pieces with identical vertical and horizontal accessory-mounting T-slots. The plurality of accessories are constructed to stably engage any of the accessory-mounting slots at a selected location along the slots. Some accessories can be attached to and extend between the two products, such as an accessory screen that extends between a post of a post-and-beam system and an end of a partition system.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 2002Date of Patent: October 26, 2004Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Daniel L. Girdwood, James N. Ludwig, Karl J. Mead, Karl H. Mueller, Dale T. Kelley
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Patent number: 6772567Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.Inventors: Niels Diffrient Jr., Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
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Patent number: 6754992Abstract: A connector for providing a load supporting connection between a first “supporting” structural member and a second structural member supported thereby comprises a flange and an integral web formed with one or an array of two or more spaced slots. The flange may also be formed with an array of spaced slots. In a preferred embodiment, the slots of the flange have a lower portion dimensioned to receive a head of a stud which projects from a surface of the supporting member and a coextensive upper portion dimensioned to receive the shank of the stud. The slots of the web have an upper portion dimensioned to receive a head of a stud which projects from a surface of the supported member and a coextensive lower portion dimensioned to receive the shank of the stud. In a preferred embodiment, the width of each shank receiving slot portion is less than the width of the respective stud head.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2001Date of Patent: June 29, 2004Assignee: The Steel Construction InstituteInventors: Michael Patrick Byfield, Bassam Adeeb Burgan
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Publication number: 20040111980Abstract: A slat wall assembly comprising a first slat, an attachment assembly, and a second slat. The first slat includes a body and a lower flange. The body includes an upper edge and a lower edge. The lower flange emanates from the lower edge of the body. The attachment assembly is associable with the lower flange of the first slat and facilitates attachment of the first slat to an existing wall. The second slat includes a body and an upper flange. The body includes an upper edge and a lower edge. The upper flange emanates from the upper edge of the body. The upper flange is configured to be insertable into the lower flange of the first slat and retainable therein.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 12, 2002Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventor: Paul James Kosch
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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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Publication number: 20040065024Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: October 2, 2002Publication date: April 8, 2004Inventor: Mark A. Kottman
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Patent number: 6711871Abstract: A wall panel assembly comprising a curved, upwardly opening channel and a support member having a downwardly extending insert portion. The insert portion is inserted into the channel. A component is attached to the support member. In a preferred embodiment, a rail member comprises the channel and is removeably attached to a wall panel frame. In another aspect, the wall panel further includes at least a second channel and a second support member engaged with the second channel. The second support member being further attached to the component. In a preferred embodiment, one or both of the second support members include a rotatable cam member that releasably engages the component. A method is also provided for configuring a wall panel with an off-module component.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2001Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.Inventors: Jean M. Beirise, Kevin L. McClintock, Todd A. Shane
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Publication number: 20040035061Abstract: The kitchen furniture assembly is made in the form of a rigid self-bearing framework (4) featuring two side upright members (5) with interconnecting cross-members and support brackets (8, 9), on which modular floor-mount cabinets (1) and modular wall-mount cabinets (2) are capable of resting, respectively, in their installed position.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 28, 2003Publication date: February 26, 2004Inventors: Roberto Lucci, Paolo Orlandini
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Publication number: 20040035074Abstract: The present invention is a partition system having improved vibration dampening characteristics. The partition system includes a frame having elongated support posts and a plurality of tiles being mounted to the posts via a plurality of mounting elements. Each tile has opposite first and second sides, opposite top and bottom edges, and opposite side edges. The mounting elements each have a body portion and a finger portion. The body portion is adapted and configured to releasbly mount to the post and the finger portion is configured to extend away from the post when the body portion is mounted to the post. The tiles have a pair of hook members mounted to the first side of the tile. The hook members are adapted and configured to hook onto the finger portion of the mounting elements. The tiles also have a pair of resilient clip members which are adapted and configured to releasably attach to the finger portion of the mounting elements.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 20, 2002Publication date: February 26, 2004Inventors: Simion Stanescu, Vadym Vasylchenko, Piotr Otrebski, Bohdan Wozniak
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Publication number: 20040035060Abstract: A number of embodiments of moveable storage racks and/or partitions that can be installed in existing buildings without the necessity of installing guide rails for them. In addition, the movement may be controlled so that the partitions move either in a parallel fashion or they can be rotated through an arc. The partitions are supported on drive and guide belts that are mounted on the underside thereof and which eliminate the need for the guide rails and spread the weight of the partition over a greater area of the floor so as to permit use in buildings which were not originally designed for such systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2003Publication date: February 26, 2004Inventors: Kunio Miyazaki, Tomoyuki Kawano, Takuya Nakamura, Michihiko Higashinozono, Ichiro Ikenaga, Hiroyuki Kiyota, Kazuya Tokunaga
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Patent number: 6615551Abstract: A media wall for supporting various types of media, such as plasma screen or flat screen television sets, as well as other types of thin media, includes an upright vertical wall to which the media is mounted. The wall may include a pair of sidewalls mounted to a back face of the vertical wall, as well as a shelf extending forwardly from the vertical wall. At least one aperture may be included for enabling power or data cables to be inserted through the wall from the front to the back. A video camera support may be mounted on the vertical wall. The wall may be pivotable about a vertical axis to allow easy access to the rear of the wall for setting up and adjusting the electrical cabling used to support the media.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2001Date of Patent: September 9, 2003Assignee: Nucraft Furniture CompanyInventors: Linda Elizabeth Chesser, William Frederick Schacht, Robert J. Bockheim, Scott E. Carpenter, Michael G. Fedrigo
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Publication number: 20030163958Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2002Publication date: September 4, 2003Inventors: 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: 6612077Abstract: A display board which comprises a thin panel member adapted to be supported on an office wall partition to closely overlie a cover of a partition. The display board is preferably coupled to an internal frame of the partition by a mounting bracket which extends laterally inwardly over the top of a cover into engagement with the internal frame. With an inner surface of the display board lying on an outerface of the cover coupling to the framework to merely provide for support against vertical downward movement of the display board can be sufficient. Mounting separate brackets which extend from the framework outwardly above a cover are advantageously provided for ease of connection.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Inscape CorporationInventor: David A. Parshad
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Patent number: 6612078Abstract: A structure to fast combine two boards into a box or cabinet by means of a snap catch comprised of a catch piece and a strike piece without using any screw, within, the catch piece being incorporated into a first board and provided with catch-hook while the strike plate being incorporated into a second board provided with recess to receive insertion by the catch from the catch piece to couple both boards to each other, laterally or vertically as required.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2001Date of Patent: September 2, 2003Assignee: Kenmark Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventor: James Hawang
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Patent number: 6601349Abstract: A free-standing panel wall system which includes at least an elongated floor rail and an elongated top rail, each of a generally U-shaped cross section, and first and second sets of upright standards of generally U-shaped cross-section and having respective side wings that project laterally from the standard, there being one set of standards releasably secured at their top and bottom ends on respective ones of the opposite side webs of the floor rail and top rail. At spaced apart locations intermediate the floor and top rails and disposed between the standards of the first and second sets of standards there is provided a plurality of horizontal connectors, each of which is removably secured to respective ones of the standards on the opposite sides of the horizontal connectors. In one embodiment, there is provided one or more wall system sections which extend generally laterally of the plane of the main wall system section.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2001Date of Patent: August 5, 2003Inventor: David A. Corden
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Publication number: 20030131538Abstract: A residence space forming equipment for use in placing furniture other than a panel in a residence space partitioned with the panel is constructed such that the panel has a facing part provided with a latticework having an engagement function, while the furniture provided with a latticework having a similar engagement function, thereby making it possible to enhance the mobility in the residence space effectively.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2002Publication date: July 17, 2003Inventor: Akihiro Kishimoto
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Patent number: 6591555Abstract: A storage unit for use in an office environment. The storage unit includes a structural frame having two opposing side panels, at least one laterally extending panel extending between and interconnecting the side panels to define an interior space. The frame includes a perimeter defining an access opening that provides access to the interior space. The storage unit includes a flexible cover having opposing side edges, a front edge, and a rear edge. The flexible cover is attached to the structural frame proximate said rear edge of said flexible cover. The flexible cover extends freely from the attachment to the frame. The flexible cover has an engagement feature which is selectively engageable with the frame at first and second locations on the frame. Engagement of the cover with the frame at the first location places the flexible cover in a closed position with the opposing side edges of the flexible cover extending proximate the perimeter defining the access opening.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2001Date of Patent: July 15, 2003Assignee: Steelcase Development CorporationInventors: Jonathan J. King, Joel T. Ruiter, David J. Dekkar, James D. Houda, Peter E. Mack
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Patent number: 6574924Abstract: A fitting for walls or panels includes a female coupling element which can be mounted on the panel or wall an a support element which can be fixed releasably in the female coupling element. A coupling and a complementary coupling are provided for restraining the support element in the female coupling element and include a pin and a catch seat, respectively, and a resilient member are also provided for urging the pin into the catch seat so as to prevent accidental disengagement of the coupling and the complementary coupling.Type: GrantFiled: December 7, 2000Date of Patent: June 10, 2003Assignee: Lino Manfrotto & Co., S.p.A.Inventor: Dario Luigi Maniezzo
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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: 20030051415Abstract: 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: June 10, 2002Publication date: March 20, 2003Inventors: Matt Remelts, John Matthai, Steve Vanwieren, Don Karaus, Paul Radke, Dustin J. Neifer, Greg A. Slocum, Wesley D. Mersman, Jean M. Beirise, Ares Marasligiller, Scott Perng-Juin Liu, Jennifer Baier, Gregory Baka, Eugene Hamilton, Jeff Weber, Jason Holt
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Publication number: 20030033757Abstract: A lift screen comprises an upright post, a lift mechanism, and a partition board. The upright post is a hollow body, the lift mechanism is disposed in the upright post; and the partition board provides at least an elongated slide plate at a facial side thereof and a lower side thereof connects with the lift mechanism. The lift screen is possible to be set up into multiple forms with multiple functions so as to offer a high mobility and more flexibility while in use and to be set up into a form with a worktable, so as to satisfy various needs and desired arrangements.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 4, 2002Publication date: February 20, 2003Inventor: Yu-An Liu
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Patent number: 6513298Abstract: A web connector, a building component connection and a method for connecting a first building component to a second building component. One embodiment of the web connector includes a rib member that is attachable to a web portion of the first building component and an attachment plate extending outward from the rib member. The rib member may be sized so that it is received on a leg portion that protrudes from the web portion of the first building component. The attachment plate is attachable to an attachment flange of the second building component. In another embodiment, the web connector includes two rib members and an attachment member that forms two plates for attaching two additional building components thereto.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2001Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Assignee: Aegis Metal Framing LLCInventor: Douglas A. Rassel
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Publication number: 20020189179Abstract: A storage unit for use in an office environment. The storage unit includes a structural frame having two opposing side panels, at least one laterally extending panel extending between and interconnecting the side panels to define an interior space. The frame includes a perimeter defining an access opening that provides access to the interior space. The storage unit includes a flexible cover having opposing side edges, a front edge, and a rear edge. The flexible cover is attached to the structural frame proximate said rear edge of said flexible cover. The flexible cover extends freely from the attachment to the frame. The flexible cover has an engagement feature which is selectively engageable with the frame at first and second locations on the frame. Engagement of the cover with the frame at the first location places the flexible cover in a closed position with the opposing side edges of the flexible cover extending proximate the perimeter defining the access opening.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 15, 2001Publication date: December 19, 2002Inventors: Jonathan J. King, Joel T. Ruiter, David J. Dekkar, James D. Houda, Peter E. Mack
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Publication number: 20020184832Abstract: An upright space-dividing panel which mounts thereon a cushion usable as a back rest. The cushion is secured to the panel by at least one strap which is secured to the panel and overlies a side face thereof in a generally vertical orientation. The cushion includes a mounting arrangement on the rear side thereof which cooperatively engages with the strap to permit vertical sliding movement of the cushion relative to the panel so as to define a back rest which is usable in conjunction with a furniture component disposed adjacent the panel and defining a seating surface thereon.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 11, 2001Publication date: December 12, 2002Inventor: Ralph E. Reddig
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Patent number: 6457278Abstract: Ingress and egress to closets and doorways through standard swinging doors requires that the area the door traverses be kept clear and is, therefore, space not usable for other purposes. The pivotal storage unit replaces doors with useful additional storage which occupies the full width and height of the door opening while permitting normal access through the doorway. The unit is mounted on hinges offset from the doorframe to permit full opening of the storage unit beyond 90°. The lower hinge incorporates a thrust bearing to support storage loads. A rolling support wheel on the base of the unit additionally supports the unit when heavily loaded. The unit can be formed in a variety of furniture configurations such as an armoire, computer work center, home entertainment center, pantry, desk, curio, vanity, etc. Two units can be used for double width doorways.Type: GrantFiled: September 7, 2000Date of Patent: October 1, 2002Inventor: Craig H. Fleming