Demountable Type (e.g., Partition) Patents (Class 52/481.2)
  • Publication number: 20090293402
    Abstract: An office work system comprises a first furniture unit having a first laterally-extending channel, and a second furniture unit having a second laterally-extending channel, the second channel being disposed substantially parallel to and at least substantially the same vertical height as the first channel, such that at least a portion of the first and second channels coextend. The office work system further comprises a work accessory and a connector assembly to connect the work accessory to the first and second furniture units along the coextending portions of the channels, the assembly including a pair of engagement members adapted to engage the first and second channels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 27, 2009
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Inventors: John Hamilton, Marvin C. Knauf, Bradley D. Youngs, Mark T. Slager, Kurt R. Heidmann, Daniel Phillips, Helen A. Buckley, Ryan Pauly
  • Patent number: 7617643
    Abstract: The present invention is directed toward fire-rated wall construction components for use in building construction. The invention provides wall components and systems which have fire-retardant characteristics, as well as wall components which allow for needed ventilation in a building throughout times when no fire is present. Embodiments include tracks for holding studs which incorporate various geometries capable of receiving intumescent material. When the intumescent material becomes hot, it expands rapidly and fills its surrounding area, blocking fire, heat, and smoke from traveling to other areas of a building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: California Expanded Metal Products Company
    Inventors: Don A. Pilz, Raymond E. Poliquin, Fernando Hernandez Sesma
  • Patent number: 7578110
    Abstract: A modular frame connection is formed by abutting a front camming surface of a front camming end of a front fastening plate against a rear camming surface of a rear camming end of a rear fastening plate while a front pierced end of the front fastening plate and rear pierced end of the rear fastening plate are separated, inserting the front and rear camming ends between a front and rear flanges of a post or beam, rotating the front pierced end toward the rear pierced end until a front finger surface of the front camming end is disposed insertably between a front lip of the front flange and a web of the post or beam and abutably to the front flange and a front abutment surface substantially orthogonal to the front fastening plate is disposed abutably to the web, rotating the rear pierced end toward the front pierced end until a rear finger surface of the rear camming end is disposed insertably between a rear lip of the rear flange and the web of the post or beam and abutably to the rear flange and a rear abutmen
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph W. Jenkins
  • Patent number: 7571578
    Abstract: A thermal wall system for slowing heat transfer through walls. The system includes horizontal top and bottom tracks, horizontal top and bottom plates, and vertical studs mounted to and extending between the top and bottom plates. The top tracks and plates have flanges that extend downward. The bottom tracks and plates have flanges that extend upward. The width of the plates fits within the width of the tracks. Top and bottom tracks and plates are respectively nested along their webs and one flange to form a longitudinal opening between their respective opposing flanges. Rigid insulation may be disposed in the longitudinal opening. Thermal framing components may also be provided, extending between the top and bottom plates, to support vertical edges of insulation sheets. Thermal end caps may be used to treat the terminal edges of insulation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 11, 2009
    Assignee: Nucon Steel Corporation
    Inventors: Donald R. Moody, Courtney J. Hanson
  • Patent number: 7509776
    Abstract: A modular storage shed system is provided, including an upper frame assembly having a plurality of vertically oriented posts, each post defining an elongated slot extending axially along at least a portion of a length thereof, a plurality of external wall panels each defining a pair of side edges, each wall panel including a lip extending orthogonally from at least a portion of each side edge thereof and defining at least one aperture formed therein. There is provided a plurality of panel locks having a lock member. The lock member may snap-fit engage the apertures in the lips of the wall panels when the lips of adjacent wall panels are positioned within the slot of a common vertical post and when the lock member of the panel lock is pressed between the adjacent wall panels into the slot of the vertical post.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2009
    Assignee: Arrow Group Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Ron Reisman
  • Patent number: 7469512
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska by and behalf of University of Nebraska Medical Center
    Inventors: Mike Faber, Chuck Niemeyer
  • Patent number: 7461494
    Abstract: A sill plate adapted to support drywall above a floor surface to prevent the formation of mold in the drywall. The sill plate has a base section and a first wall associated with the base section. A first shelf is associated with the first wall. The first shelf is adapted to support drywall. The sill plate may also include a second wall associated with base section where the second wall is opposed from the first wall. The second wall may include a second shelf associated with the second wall. Each of the first shelf and second shelf may extend along a plane parallel to a plane passing through the base section. Drywall may rest on the first shelf prior to being affixed to vertical studs extending from the sill plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: Construction Solutions, LLC
    Inventor: Joseph A. Frezza
  • Patent number: 7451577
    Abstract: A demountable and remountable wall assembly for partitioning room space between an overhead and a floor, the major elements of which are reusable. The assembly provides one or two walls, at lease one of which has an outer fastener-free surface. Additionally, the fastener-free surface may be made substantially smooth and seamless. The walls are arranged in planar congruence, separated by internal spacers or studs, and vertically positioned between the overhead and floor of the room space to be partitioned. Removable tracks or spacers at the top and bottom of the wall assembly serves to interface the wall assembly with the floor and ceiling of the space. The walls are constructed of either finished or unfinished wall panels (e.g., fabric covered or sheet rock panels) which are incorporated into the assembly using a combination of removable fasteners and releasable adhesives. The finished or exposed area of a wall surface includes no fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2008
    Inventor: W. Frank Little, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7331148
    Abstract: A concrete form comprises cross members, plywood, and metal studs. The studs include a front wall, a rear wall, and a pair of side walls, the walls arranged to form a generally rectangular cross-section. A pair of inner walls extends between and perpendicular to the pair of side walls. A pair of flanges extends from the side walls. The flanges are aligned with each other and positioned between the front wall and the pair of inner walls. A portion of each stud is adapted for complementary engagement with the cross members. The cross members are attached to at least one of the inner walls and the flanges of the cut portion of the studs, and the plywood is mounted to the rear wall.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2008
    Assignee: Brentmuir Developments (1993) Ltd.
    Inventor: Nick Di Lorenzo
  • Patent number: 7310918
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2007
    Assignee: Knoll, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Reuter, Charles P. Rozier, Jr., Wallace C. Bullwinkle
  • Patent number: 7225852
    Abstract: A cover pad for an upright wall having an improved support for simplifying attachment of a flexible covering such as fabric. The support includes a flat substrate sized to closely conform to the assembled cover pad. A ringlike frame defined by frame elements extend along edges of the substrate. Each frame element has a first elongate part engaged with the respective edge of the substrate, and a second elongate part joined to the first part by a lengthwise hinge. The second part functions as a hinging flange which is initially in an open position generally aligned with a front face of the substrate so that a flexible covering can be secured, as by adhesive, to an exposed surface of the flange while maintaining the fabric positioned across the face of the substrate. The hinging flanges of the frame elements are folded inwardly to overlie respective edges of the substrate, thereby securing the fabric across the face of the substrate and wrapped around the edges thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: Anthony McConnell, Randolph Woellper, Harold R. Wilson
  • Patent number: 7197853
    Abstract: A demountable and remountable wall assembly for partitioning room space between an overhead and a floor, the major elements of which are reusable. The assembly provides one or two walls, at lease one of which has an outer fastener-free surface. Additionally, the fastener-free surface may be made substantially smooth and seamless. The walls are arranged in planar congruence, separated by internal spacers or studs, and vertically positioned between the overhead and floor of the room space to be partitioned. Removable tracks or spacers at the top and bottom of the wall assembly serves to interface the wall assembly with the floor and ceiling of the space. The walls are constructed of either finished or unfinished wall panels (e.g., fabric covered or sheet rock panels) which are incorporated into the assembly using a combination of removable fasteners and releasable adhesives. The finished or exposed area of a wall surface includes no fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2007
    Inventor: W. Frank Little, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7185460
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: David A. Corden
  • Patent number: 7168219
    Abstract: A support structure such as, for example, a door jamb and a window jamb. In one embodiment, the jamb is formed from a first stud that has a web and two first flanges and a second stud with a second web and second flanges. The first stud has at least one first hole through the first web and the second stud has at least one second hole through the second web. The first and second studs are oriented such that at least one first hole is aligned with at least one second hole and a stud engager is inserted through the aligned holes to retain the studs in abutting contact to form the jamb.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Dietrich Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William L. Elderson
  • Patent number: 7168213
    Abstract: There is provided an adjustment device for adjusting the vertical height of, for example, studs, furniture and large appliances. The device has a base (12), a pine (14) upstanding from and supported by the base and a rotatable cam element (20). The pin has a number of grooves (16) and the cam is capable of engaging one or more of the grooves to alter the distance between the base and cam. Also disclosed is a stud or mullion (30) having two sets of channels, each of which is adapted to receive a cooperating means for mounting a panel or bracket. The sets of channels are parallel to each other and spaced apart by parallel spaced webs (32, 34). The adjustment device may be inserted in the stud or mullion. Further disclosed is a joining clip (not illustrated) for mounting a panel or bracket to the stud or mullion. The clip is in two parts, one part has means to connect the clip to the panel and the other has a pair of resilient arms and is able to mate with the first part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Telezygology Inc.
    Inventors: Dickory Rudduck, Michael John Laybourne Hort
  • Patent number: 7159369
    Abstract: A stud bridging/spacing member generally having at least three longitudinally spaced apart notches for receiving and engaging therein a web of a metal stud. At least one of the notches has opposing notch sides which are oriented such that when a portion of a web is received therein, one of the notch sides contacts the web at a first portion of the web and the other notch side contacts the web at a second portion of the web such that the first portion of the web and the second portion of the web are not located on a common longitudinal axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Dietrich Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: William L. Elderson
  • Patent number: 7143552
    Abstract: A support beam and a support frame for an office furniture system which can be used to mount and support a variety of furniture system components and electrical and communication equipment. The support beam has an elongate, hollow lower beam section with a top panel and vertical side panels. An elongate upper beam rail having a top extends parallel to and spaced-apart from the lower beam section. This rail has a plurality of post-receiving holes formed in its top for mounting other components such as a support wall. Spaced apart posts rigidly connect the beam rail to the lower beam section. Rail connecting devices are provided at opposite ends of the beam rail for rigidly connecting it to an adjacent end of another beam rail or to the support frame. The support frame has a horizontal metal beam and two elongate, hollow end frame sections extending downwardly from opposite ends of the beam. A raceway is rigidly mounted on a lower portion of this beam and extends downwardly therefrom.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Assignee: Nova-Link Limited
    Inventor: Antonius A. Vander Park
  • Patent number: 7055287
    Abstract: This invention relates to a space-dividing wall panel system having a plurality of base panels which are serially connectable one with the other to define a vertically enlarged wall supported on a floor. Each base panel is defined by at least one horizontal box-beam rigidly connected to a pair of laterally spaced apart vertical uprights which are connected at the opposite ends of the box-beam and have a reduced thickness compared thereto. With this clearance between the faces of the box-beam and the uprights, the box-beam, cross rails at the ends of the uprights as well as additional extension panels are formed with longitudinally extending channels which are positioned free of interference with the vertical uprights and aligned with serially-adjacent channels of serially-adjacent wall panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: X. Shawn Yu, Bryan R. Gingrich, Robert L. Tuttle, Keith Foco
  • Patent number: 6959515
    Abstract: A building structure comprising: a support module; and one or more room modules, the or each room module being attachable to and cantilevered from the support module. The room modules are independently attached to the support module to allow independent removal or addition of room modules.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2005
    Inventor: Ashley Thomas Beighton
  • Patent number: 6941716
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: HNI Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: Mark A. Kottman
  • Patent number: 6883277
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Kimball International, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Wiechecki, Michael F. Cifelli
  • Patent number: 6820388
    Abstract: A stackable wall panel assembly includes a lower wall panel having a top, a bottom, vertically extending ends and opposite sides and an upper wall panel having a top, a bottom, vertically extending ends and opposite sides. A lower connector post is connected to the lower wall panel and an upper connector post is connected to the upper wall panel. A draw rod connects the lower connector post to the first upper connector post, with a spacer post disposed therebetween.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Herman Miller, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas J. Newhouse, David B. Martin, Kevin Scott Breuker, Mark James Dinneweth, Steven M. Van Weiren, Thomas L. Verkaik
  • Patent number: 6817149
    Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Patent number: 6807784
    Abstract: A combination partition screen includes at least two upright supports, each upright support having a plurality of longitudinal coupling portions in corners thereof and a plurality of spacers respectively mounted between each two adjacent upright supports to support partition panels, each spacer having a flat base wall, a flat bearing wall and a flat supporting wall respectively extended from the base wall, an upward stop flange extended from the flat bearing wall and adapted to hold with the flat base wall a partition panel on the flat bearing wall, a downward stop flange extended from the flat supporting wall and adapted to hold with the flat base wall a partition panel below the flat supporting wall, a downward locating flange extended from the flat bearing wall and defining with the flat supporting wall an elongated coupling chamber for hanging things, a flat positioning wall perpendicularly extended from an opposite side of the flat base wall on the middle, an elongated clamping wall extended from the fla
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Yi-Cheng Hsueh
  • Patent number: 6805185
    Abstract: A partition for open building space and the like having a frame including at least one substantially horizontal surface. A cover member is configured to enclose at least a portion of the frame. The cover member includes attachment members configured to connect the cover member to the frame. A seal is attached to the cover member and includes a resilient flap which engages the substantially horizontal surface of the frame to inhibit the passage of acoustical and/or optical energy through the partition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2004
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Donald P. Gravel, Douglas L. Hancey, Vladimir Zila
  • Patent number: 6799404
    Abstract: A wall assembly includes at least two panel elements which are configured for contiguous placement adjacent to one another. Each of the panel elements defines a hollow internal passageway. The panels are configured to permit a contiguous placement whereby the respective passageways of the panels are brought into registration with one another. A connection element is positioned within one of the passageways. The connection element is accessible through a slot defined within the sidewall of the panel wherein the connection element resides. The connection element is slidable whereby it may be displaced partially into the second panel element. The connection element is thereafter actuatable whereby its lateral dimension is decreased to form a pressure fit union with the interior sidewalls of the two passageways. In its spatially decreased configuration, the connection element provides a means of interconnecting the two panel elements together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2004
    Assignee: Daw Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Peter J. Spransy
  • Patent number: 6775953
    Abstract: A number of wall panel apparatuses are disclosed. In one embodiment the wall panel apparatus includes a rectangular frame, two oppositely disposed metal tiles, each tile having a number of attachment and mounting clips whereby mounting of the tiles to opposite sides of the rectangular frame is easily accomplished by locating mounting clips attached to the lower edge portions of the tiles to a bottom frame member and pivoting the upper portion of the tiles so that the attachment clips which are resilient snap into place. A glass wall panel apparatus includes the same rectangular frame, however, top and bottom channels cover the top and bottom frame members of the rectangular frame, each of the channels having hook portions for engaging the top and bottom edges of the glass panes. Also included are side shroud channels and tensioning screws to adjust the channels in relation to the glass panes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Assignee: HON Technology Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Burken, Matthew C. Brown, Jeffrey E. Tjebkes, Chad C. Lolling, Peter A. Simmons, Tim B. Wilson, Gordon K. Hartman, Brian D. Meyer, Darren P. Williams, Thomas W. Garrett, Michael J. Frantz, Joseph A. Miller, Matthew R. Hanley
  • Patent number: 6754998
    Abstract: A space dividing system includes a column and a series of partition panels adapted for interconnection with the column. The column includes an internal passage, and is adapted to receive wiring from a building for supplying power to a receptacle arrangement interconnected with the column. Adjacent panels are connected to the column at spaced locations, and the receptacle arrangement is exposed between the adjacent panels. The column includes a structural skeleton to which the receptacle arrangement is mounted, and a series of covers are releasably engaged with the structural skeleton for finishing the aesthetic appearance of the column. An adjustable height mounting arrangement is interconnected with the upper end of the column for connection to a ceiling to stabilize the upper end of the column. Each panel is in the form of a frame defining an opening within which a core is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Krueger International, Inc.
    Inventors: Niels Diffrient, Timothy J. Bouche, Andrew J. Kopish
  • Publication number: 20040118054
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention employ a modular room including a plurality of modular room components (e.g., anchor assemblies, upright assemblies, etc.). These anchor assemblies and upright assemblies can take different forms permitting assembly of a modular room or modular structure in different manners, and in some cases provide for interchangeable interior and exterior wall panels and components. In some embodiments, a bracket assembly is coupled to an substantially vertical elongated upright for improved strength and stability. Preferably, the anchor assembly has a base plate with at least one edge at an angle with respect to the rest of the base plate for additional strength. If desired, the vertical position of the upright with respect to the base plate can be adjusted. In some embodiments, one or more overhead trusses are used to stabilize the walls of a modular room.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2003
    Publication date: June 24, 2004
    Applicant: L&P PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY
    Inventor: Steven C. Thompson
  • Patent number: 6751913
    Abstract: A wall structure includes at least two studs that are designed to support panels front and back, and end caps or raceway channel defining members on the leading and trailing edges of the panel wall structure. Each of the studs includes sets of oppositely arranged flanges that in turn cooperate with marginal edges of both the panels and the raceway defining members. Cross bracing is provided to allow wiring either within the enclosed space between the panels, or more preferably in the wireways defined in the raceway members so that the power and data communication conductors can be isolated from one another. The feature of the panel structure is that the panels themselves can support light fixtures or other lightweight electrical devices, and heavier electrical devices or units can be accommodated from the cross bracing or from shelves secured to the cross bracing and to the studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2004
    Assignee: The Wiremold Company
    Inventors: John R. Marrotte, Richard R. Picard, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20040065024
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Publication date: April 8, 2004
    Inventor: Mark A. Kottman
  • Publication number: 20040035074
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventors: Simion Stanescu, Vadym Vasylchenko, Piotr Otrebski, Bohdan Wozniak
  • Patent number: 6668504
    Abstract: In a sound-deadened wall comprising wooden studs, each of which has a front edge and a back edge, a front wall panel is fastened to the front edges of the studs and a back wall panel is fastened to the back edges of the studs. Further, front spacers are positioned along the front edge of each stud, between the front edge of said stud and the front wall panel, so as to define air gaps between the front edge of said stud and the front wall panel, and back spacers are positioned along the back edge of each stud, between the back edge of said stud and the back wall panel, so as to define air gaps between the back edge of said stud and the back wall panel. Each wall panel has two expansive surfaces and the associated spacers are defined by elastomeric strips adhering to such wall panel, on the expansive face to face the associated edges of the studs, before such wall panel is fastened to the associated edges of the studs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2003
    Assignee: Knight-Celotex, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Hughart
  • Patent number: 6658805
    Abstract: A space-dividing wall panel system having a plurality of base panels which are serially connectable one with the other to define a vertically enlarged wall supported on a floor. Each base panel is defined by at least one horizontal box-beam rigidly connected to a pair of laterally spaced apart vertical uprights which are connected at the opposite ends of the box-beam and have a reduced thickness compared thereto. With this clearance between the faces of the box-beam and the uprights, the box-beam, cross rails at the ends of the uprights as well as additional extension panels are formed with longitudinally extending channels which are positioned free of interference with the vertical uprights and aligned with serially-adjacent channels of serially-adjacent wall panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2003
    Assignee: Haworth, Inc.
    Inventors: X. Shawn Yu, Bryan R. Gingrich, Robert L. Tuttle, Keith Foco
  • Publication number: 20030208973
    Abstract: An improved structural combination for a free-standing panel wall system and comprises first and second pluralities of elongated channel members which meet one another at various locations along the length of the channel members to define an intersection, and a cap member overlying or underlying the intersections of the channel members, and means for anchoring the cap member to the intersecting portions of the channel members at their intersection. Preferably, the materials of construction of the channel member and the cap members are noncombustible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Publication date: November 13, 2003
    Inventor: David A. Corden
  • Publication number: 20030205010
    Abstract: A reconfigurable office partition system that includes movable rigid panels each comprised of a core panel mounted within a perimeter frame. Said core panel comprised of a matrix of compressed straw or other cellulose-based natural fiber lined by paper or paperboard suitable for accepting a variety of surface treatments, and also suitable for accepting nails, screws or other means for hanging or otherwise attaching articles thereon. Frames comprised of vertical and horizontal rails specially adapted to engage said core panels and further adapted to releasably and slidably attach to a series of specialty connectors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: November 6, 2003
    Inventors: Todd Anglin, Carroll Moore, Erez Steinberg
  • Publication number: 20030196401
    Abstract: A downwardly opening upper channel member (10) is positioned above an upwardly opening lower channel member (12). A lower end portion of a stud (14) is received in the lower channel member (12). A clip (54) is received in an upper end portion of the stud bracket (10). The clip (54) has an upper portion that is connected to the upper channel member (10). It also has a lower portion that extends downwardly into an upper end portion of its stud (14). The upper channel member (10) has opposite side flanges (20, 22) that include lower edges (32, 34) the stud (14) has an upper butt end that is positioned above the lower edge (32, 34) is below an upper web portion (18) of the upper channel member (10). The upper portion of the clip (54) is connected to the upper channel member (10). The clip (54) is free to move vertically with respect to the stud (14). In a wall construction, wallboard sheeting WS is connected to the stud (14) and the lower channel member (12) but not to the upper channel member (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 17, 2002
    Publication date: October 23, 2003
    Inventor: Matt Surowiecki
  • Publication number: 20030192279
    Abstract: In a sound-deadened wall comprising wooden studs, each of which has a front edge and a back edge, a front wall panel is fastened to the front edges of the studs and a back wall panel is fastened to the back edges of the studs. Further, front spacers are positioned along the front edge of each stud, between the front edge of said stud and the front wall panel, so as to define air gaps between the front edge of said stud and the front wall panel, and back spacers are positioned along the back edge of each stud, between the back edge of said stud and the back wall panel, so as to define air gaps between the back edge of said stud and the back wall panel. Each wall panel has two expansive surfaces and the associated spacers are defined by elastomeric strips adhering to such wall panel, on the expansive face to face the associated edges of the studs, before such wall panel is fastened to the associated edges of the studs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2002
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Applicant: Knight-Celotex, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Jeffrey S. Hughart
  • Publication number: 20030188379
    Abstract: A bathing enclosure wall panel and framing therefor are disclosed. In one embodiment there is a frosted, translucent, colored acrylic that is backed by a mirroring metal such as aluminum. There can also be a waterproofing paint layer behind the reflective material, as well as a cellulosic backing layer to reduce flexing. The material reflects light but does not present a risqué appearance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: Brian D. Cowell, Richard A. Olson, Mark A. Rothwell
  • Patent number: 6615559
    Abstract: A resiliently flexible construction beam includes a pair of lateral flange portions and a web extending therebetween, preferably, but not necessarily, so as to present a cross-sectional profile corresponding to commonly used construction beam members (e.g., 2″×4″ or 2″×6″). The resilience of the beam helps to attenuate sound transmission through the beam from one lateral member to the other. In particular, in a wall frame, beams according to the present invention are mounted at opposite ends thereof to end plates. In one example, the end plates include slits into which the webs of the beams can be received. The resilient web according to the present invention is conveniently made from a unitary piece of material such as, for example, steel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Owens Corning Fiberglas Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Ralph D. McGrath, John C. Chen
  • Patent number: 6612077
    Abstract: A display board which comprises a thin panel member adapted to be supported on an office wall partition to closely overlie a cover of a partition. The display board is preferably coupled to an internal frame of the partition by a mounting bracket which extends laterally inwardly over the top of a cover into engagement with the internal frame. With an inner surface of the display board lying on an outerface of the cover coupling to the framework to merely provide for support against vertical downward movement of the display board can be sufficient. Mounting separate brackets which extend from the framework outwardly above a cover are advantageously provided for ease of connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: Inscape Corporation
    Inventor: David A. Parshad
  • Publication number: 20030154672
    Abstract: A wall assembly includes at least two panel elements which are configured for contiguous placement adjacent to one another. Each of the panel elements defines a hollow internal passageway. The panels are configured to permit a contiguous placement whereby the respective passageways of the panels are brought into registration with one another. A connection element is positioned within one of the passageways. The connection element is accessible through a slot defined within the sidewall of the panel wherein the connection element resides. The connection element is slidable whereby it may be displaced partially into the second panel element. The connection element is thereafter actuatable whereby its lateral dimension is increased to form a pressure fit union with the interior sidewalls of the two passageways. In its spatially expanded configuration, the connection element provides a means of interconnecting the two panel elements together.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2002
    Publication date: August 21, 2003
    Inventors: Peter J. Spransy, Ronald H. Bushman, Donald A. Kugath
  • Publication number: 20030126818
    Abstract: A hanging thin wall plate comprises a decorating plate; a plurality of composite plates fixed to a back side of the decorating plate; and at least one aluminum-extruding piece fixed to the back surface of the decorating plate and between two composite plates. When the decorating plate, composite plates and aluminum-extruding piece are combined, retainers are engaged on a backside of the aluminum-extruding piece for being combined with other steel element. Thereby, a wall plate is capable of being fixed to a wall of a building. No hole is drilled on the decorating plate so that the decorating plate has a complete surface without any crack. Thereby, the thickness of the decorating plate can be reduced. A thinner decorating plate can be used and thus the weight of the wall plate is reduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2002
    Publication date: July 10, 2003
    Inventor: Hao-Ta Chung
  • Publication number: 20030115818
    Abstract: The mounting system comprises a grid of vertically upright C-profiles which are pushed with their lower and upper ends into horizontally extending U-profiles. Bracket clips are fitted to outer sides of the mutually opposite legs of the C-profiles. The bracket clips on the profiles are in engagement with rails. Panels are fastened to these rails. An insulating material can be accommodated in the gap enclosed by the panels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2002
    Publication date: June 26, 2003
    Applicant: Trespa International B. V.
    Inventor: Kees Hans Weurman
  • Patent number: 6578335
    Abstract: A wall framework includes top and bottom tracks, a horizontal channel and vertical studs. A first vertical stud is secured to the top track and the bottom track and has a first opening sized and shaped to permit the horizontal channel to extend therethrough and a second opening vertically spaced from the first opening. A second vertical stud is secured to the top track and the bottom track and has a third opening sized and shaped to permit the channel to extend therethrough and a fourth opening vertically spaced from the fourth opening. At least one clip extends through the first opening and the second opening. A fastener connects the horizontal channel to the clip. The clip cooperates with the fastener to secure the horizontal channel in a fixed relationship to the first vertical stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Assignee: California Expanded Metal Products Company
    Inventor: Raymond Edward Poliquin
  • Publication number: 20030070377
    Abstract: A knock-down portable partition system has cover panels supported on a post and beam framework designed for quick and easy on-site manual assembly. 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: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2002
    Publication date: April 17, 2003
    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
  • Publication number: 20030066248
    Abstract: A combination partition screen includes at least two upright supports, each upright support having a plurality of longitudinal coupling portions in corners thereof and a plurality of spacers respectively mounted between each two adjacent upright supports to support partition panels, each spacer having a flat base wall, a flat bearing wall and a flat supporting wall respectively extended from the base wall, an upward stop flange extended from the flat bearing wall and adapted to hold with the flat base wall a partition panel on the flat bearing wall, a downward stop flange extended from the flat supporting wall and adapted to hold with the flat base wall a partition panel below the flat supporting wall, a downward locating flange extended from the flat bearing wall and defining with the flat supporting wall an elongated coupling chamber for hanging things, a flat positioning wall perpendicularly extended from an opposite side of the flat base wall on the middle, an elongated clamping wall extended from the fla
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventor: Yi-Cheng Hsueh
  • Patent number: 6516571
    Abstract: A screen apparatus includes a perimeter frame with a notch and arcuate foot in one of the bottom corners that are adapted to receive a raised floor device, such as a raised power outlet. A covering covers the frame but the notch is not covered. The covering is preferably a light-passing translucent sheet of performance fabric which is adapted to pass light sufficient for a viewer to see a person behind the screen, but which scatters and blocks sufficient light to provide privacy by hiding details of the person's work from the viewer. The screen apparatus also includes bowed frame members extending horizontally between some of the outer frame members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas Overthun, George J. Simons, Jr., Thomas B. Eich, James N. Ludwig, David M. Gresham
  • Patent number: 6510663
    Abstract: An in-fill panel arrangement is designed for post and beam furniture systems of the type having overhead beams supported on vertical posts. Each of the beams has a lowermost face with a horizontal slot extending therealong, and each of the posts includes outwardly extending flanges having an end face with a slot extending vertically therealong. Beam-to-post connectors are attached to the opposite ends of the beams, and are detachably retained in the slots in the posts to mount the beams on the posts. Rigid in-fill panels are shaped to be positioned directly below the beams and above the floor to partition the space into individual work areas. Panel mounting brackets are detachably retained in the slots in the posts and the beams, and are connected with the in-fill panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Steelcase Development Corporation
    Inventors: Michael A. Jourden, Karl Heinz Mueller, Genevieve Wing
  • Publication number: 20020189171
    Abstract: A display board which comprises a thin panel member adapted to be supported on an office wall partition to closely overlie a cover of a partition. The display board is preferably coupled to an internal frame of the partition by a mounting bracket which extends laterally inwardly over the top of a cover into engagement with the internal frame. With an inner surface of the display board lying on an outerface of the cover coupling to the framework to merely provide for support against vertical downward movement of the display board can be sufficient. Mounting separate brackets which extend from the framework outwardly above a cover are advantageously provided for ease of connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: David A. Parshad