U.S. patent application number 10/426780 was filed with the patent office on 2004-11-04 for table and meeting constructions and arrangements.
Invention is credited to Cvek, Sava.
Application Number | 20040216647 10/426780 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33309960 |
Filed Date | 2004-11-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040216647 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Cvek, Sava |
November 4, 2004 |
Table and meeting constructions and arrangements
Abstract
A table construction with first and second table members with
proximal ends and distal ends and with a base structure and at
least one support surface retained by the base structure wherein
the first and second table members can be disposed in a chevron
arrangement, such as by pivoting. Plural support surfaces can be
retained by the base structures or a single, generally continuous
support surface can be retained by each base structure. The support
surfaces can be retained by support arms that can be laterally and
vertically pivotable, and the support surfaces can be rotatably
retained relative to the support arms. Where a single support
surface is retained relative to each table member, proximal edges
of the support surfaces can cooperate to define a V-shaped
configuration that can be closed by a pivoting of the first table
member relative to the second table member.
Inventors: |
Cvek, Sava; (Jamaica Plain,
MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THOMAS P O'CONNELL
135 CAMBRIDGE STREET SUITE 10
BURLINGTON
MA
01803
|
Family ID: |
33309960 |
Appl. No.: |
10/426780 |
Filed: |
April 30, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
108/50.02 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 37/02 20130101;
A47B 21/02 20130101; A47B 3/002 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
108/050.02 |
International
Class: |
A47B 037/00 |
Claims
I claim as deserving the protection of Letters Patent:
1. A table construction comprising: a first table member with a
proximal end and a distal end wherein the first table member
comprises a base structure and at least one support surface
retained by the base structure; a second table member coupled to
the first table member wherein the second table member has a
proximal end and a distal end and wherein the second table member
comprises a base structure and at least one support surface
retained by the base structure; and a means for disposing the first
table member and the second table member in a chevron
arrangement.
2. The table construction of claim 1 wherein the means for
disposing the first table member and the second table member in a
chevron arrangement comprises a means for pivotally coupling the
first table member to the second table member whereby the first and
second table members can be pivoted between a closed configuration
wherein the first table member is in proximity to the second table
member and an open configuration wherein the first and second table
members are disposed in a chevron arrangement.
3. The table construction of claim 1 wherein plural support
surfaces are retained by the base structure of the first table
member and wherein plural support surfaces are retained by the base
structure of the second table member.
4. The table construction of claim 3 wherein at least one of the
plural support surfaces is retained by a support arm that has a
proximal end coupled to the respective base structure and a distal
end coupled to the respective support surface.
5. The table construction of claim 4 wherein the support arm is
laterally pivotable relative to the respective base structure
whereby the location of the support surface retained by the support
arm can be adjusted relative to the respective base structure.
6. The table construction of claim 5 wherein the support surface is
rotatably coupled to the support arm whereby the orientation of the
support surface relative to the support arm can be adjusted.
7. The table construction of claim 4 wherein the support arm is
vertically pivotable relative to the respective base structure
whereby the height of the support surface retained by the support
arm can be adjusted relative to the respective base structure.
8. The table construction of claim 7 wherein the support arm is
laterally pivotable relative to the respective base structure
whereby the location of the support surface retained by the support
arm can be adjusted relative to the respective base structure.
9. The table construction of claim 8 wherein the support surface is
rotatably coupled to the support arm whereby the orientation of the
support surface relative to the support arm can be adjusted.
10. The table construction of claim 7 wherein the support arm is
vertically pivotable relative to the respective base structure by a
parallel movement joint arrangement.
11. The table construction of claim 7 wherein the support surface
is pivotable about a horizontal axis relative to the distal end of
the support arm whereby the angular disposition of the support
surface can be adjusted.
12. The table construction of claim 7 further comprising a means
for locking the support surface at a given height.
13. The table construction of claim 3 wherein each of the plural
support surfaces retained by the base structure of the first table
member and each of the plural support surfaces retained by the base
structure of the second table member is retained by a support arm
that has a proximal end coupled to the respective base structure
and a distal end coupled to the respective support surface.
14. The table construction of claim 2 wherein each of the first and
second table members has a support surface with a support surface
proximal edge, a support surface distal edge, a support surface
facing edge, and a support surface outside edge, wherein the
support surface proximal edges cooperate to define a generally
V-shaped configuration when the first and second table members are
disposed in a closed configuration, and wherein the support surface
proximal edges tend to pivot into proximity when the first and
second table members are pivoted to an open configuration.
15. The table construction of claim 14 further comprising at least
one generally wedge-shaped insert and a means for removably and
replaceably disposing the wedge-shaped insert within the generally
V-shaped configuration defined by the support surface proximal
edges when the first and second table members are disposed in a
closed configuration.
16. The table construction of claim 14 wherein the support surface
distal edges cooperate to define a generally V-shaped configuration
when the first and second table members are disposed in a closed
configuration and further comprising a stand with a platform with a
wedge-shaped portion whereby the stand can be disposed with the
wedge-shaped portion of the platform occupying at least part of the
generally V-shaped configuration defined by either the support
surface proximal edges or the support surface distal edges when the
first and second table members are disposed in a closed
configuration.
17. The table construction of claim 3 further comprising a means
for providing lighting relative to each of the plural support
surfaces.
18. The table construction of claim 17 wherein the means for
providing lighting relative to each of the plural support surfaces
comprises a low-level lighting arrangement associated with each of
the plural support surfaces.
19. The table construction of claim 2 wherein the base structures
of the first and second table members each comprise elongate
frameworks with a support leg disposed at a proximal end thereof
and a support leg disposed at a distal end thereof wherein the
support legs at the proximal end of the elongate frameworks each
extend diagonally outboard of the elongate frameworks of the first
and second table members.
20. The table construction of claim 19 further comprising at least
one caster rotatably coupled to each of the frameworks.
21. The table construction of claim 1 further comprising electrical
wiring and connecting elements operably associated with each of the
first and second table members for providing access to power and
data capabilities.
22. The table construction of claim 21 further comprising a means
for retaining power and data cords relative to each support
surface.
23. The table construction of claim 22 wherein the means for
retaining power and data cords relative to each support surface
comprises a cord retaining inlet within each support surface.
24. The table construction of claim 1 further comprising a means
for altering the number of support surfaces retained by the base
structures of the first and second table members.
25. The table construction of claim 24 wherein the means for
altering the number of support surfaces retained by the base
structures of the first and second table members comprises at least
one modular base structure extension and a means for coupling the
modular base structure extension to one of the base structures of
the first and second table members.
26. The table construction of claim 25 wherein each base structure
extension retains at least one support surface.
27. The table construction of claim 26 wherein the at least one
support surface retained by each base structure extension is
retained by a support arm that has a proximal end coupled to the
base structure extension and a distal end coupled to the support
surface.
28. The table construction of claim 3 further comprising at least
one elongate central platform retained by the base structure of the
first or second table members wherein the elongate central platform
is disposed inboard of the plural support surfaces.
29. A meeting arrangement comprising: a table construction
comprising a first table member with a proximal end and a distal
end wherein the first table member comprises a base structure and
at least one support surface retained by the base structure; a
second table member coupled to the first table member wherein the
second table member has a proximal end and a distal end and wherein
the second table member comprises a base structure and at least one
support surface retained by the base structure; and a means for
disposing the first table member and the second table member in a
chevron arrangement; and a conferencing structure for being
disposed in proximity to the table construction.
30. The meeting arrangement of claim 29 wherein the conferencing
structure comprises a stand with a platform supported by a support
structure.
31. The meeting arrangement of claim 30 wherein each of the first
and second table members has a support surface with a support
surface proximal edge, a support surface distal edge, a support
surface facing edge, and a support surface outside edge, wherein
the support surface proximal edges cooperate to define a generally
V-shaped configuration when the first and second table members are
disposed in a closed configuration, wherein the support surface
proximal edges tend to pivot into proximity when the first and
second table members are pivoted to an open configuration, wherein
the support surface distal edges cooperate to define a generally
V-shaped configuration when the first and second table members are
disposed in a closed configuration and wherein the platform of the
stand has at least a wedge-shaped portion whereby the stand can be
disposed with the wedge-shaped portion of the platform occupying at
least part of the generally V-shaped configuration defined by
either the support surface proximal edges or the support surface
distal edges when the first and second table members are disposed
in a closed configuration.
32. The meeting arrangement of claim 31 wherein the stand further
comprises a means for adjusting a height of the platform and a
means for adjusting a pitch of the platform.
33. The meeting arrangement of claim 29 wherein the conferencing
structure comprises a modular base framework comprising first and
second stanchions, upper and lower cross members each with first
ends coupled modularly to the first stanchion and second ends
coupled modularly to the second stanchion, an upper support surface
for supporting at least one display article, and at least one lower
support surface whereby stanchions, cross members, and support
surfaces of varied lengths can be employed to vary a size of the
conferencing structure.
34. The meeting arrangement of claim 29 wherein the conferencing
structure comprises a combination display arrangement comprising a
base, multiple display elements, and a means for enabling a
selective display of one or more of the display elements.
35. The meeting arrangement of claim 34 wherein the means for
enabling a selective display of one or more of the display elements
comprises a means for enabling at least one display element to
slide into and out of an overlapping relationship with at least one
other display element.
36. The meeting arrangement of claim 29 wherein the conferencing
structure comprises a teleconferencing arrangement with a display
screen, a camera system, and a means for supporting the display
screen and the camera system.
37. A table construction comprising: a first table member with a
proximal end and a distal end wherein the first table member
comprises a base structure and at least one support surface
retained by the base structure; a second table member coupled to
the first table member wherein the second table member has a
proximal end and a distal end and wherein the second table member
comprises a base structure and at least one support surface
retained by the base structure; and a means for pivotally coupling
the proximal end of the first table member to the proximal end of
the second table member whereby the first and second table members
can be pivoted between a closed configuration wherein the first
table member is in proximity to the second table member and an open
configuration wherein the first and second table members are
disposed in a chevron arrangement.
38. The table construction of claim 37 wherein plural support
surfaces are retained by the base structure of the first table
member and wherein plural support surfaces are retained by the base
structure of the second table member wherein the plural support
surfaces are each retained by a support arm that has a proximal end
coupled to the respective base structure and a distal end coupled
to the respective support surface.
39. The table construction of claim 38 wherein the support arm is
laterally pivotable relative to the respective base structure
whereby the location of the support surface retained by the support
arm can be adjusted relative to the respective base structure.
40. The table construction of claim 38 wherein the support surface
is rotatably coupled to the support arm whereby the orientation of
the support surface relative to the support arm can be
adjusted.
41. The table construction of claim 38 wherein the support arm is
vertically pivotable relative to the respective base structure
whereby the height of the support surface retained by the support
arm can be adjusted relative to the respective base structure.
42. The table construction of claim 37 wherein each of the first
and second table members has a support surface with a support
surface proximal edge, a support surface distal edge, a support
surface facing edge, and a support surface outside edge, wherein
the support surface proximal edges cooperate to define a generally
V-shaped configuration when the first and second table members are
disposed in a closed configuration, and wherein the support surface
proximal edges tend to pivot into proximity when the first and
second table members are pivoted to an open configuration.
43. The table construction of claim 42 further comprising at least
one generally wedge-shaped insert and a means for removably and
replaceably disposing the wedge-shaped insert within the generally
V-shaped configuration defined by the support surface proximal
edges when the first and second table members are disposed in a
closed configuration.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates generally to table
constructions. Stated more particularly, this patent discloses and
protects a table and meeting constructions and arrangements that
can be used to facilitate and adapt to a wide variety of meeting
formats including, by way of example, presentations,
videoconferences, and multimedia displays.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Meetings are critically important in business, civic,
political and numerous other applications. For example, workers
commonly must convene in groups to confer, to present and receive
policy statements and other information, to collaborate and
coordinate regarding multi-faceted tasks, to pool skills and
insights toward analyzing and confronting issues and problems, to
generate creative energy and new ideas, to communicate with
remotely located colleagues by use of video conferencing, and to
give and receive training. Furthermore, with telecommuting, flex
time, and other scheduling variations becoming increasingly common,
in-person and videoconference type meetings are of ever greater
value as possibly the only opportunities for colleagues to exchange
ideas and information, to form bonds of friendship and respect, and
to motivate and inspire one another.
[0003] For a plurality of reasons, the ideal seating arrangement in
substantially any type of meeting situation will provide each
participant with open and direct lines of sight and communication
with other participants and with any display materials or devices.
For example, conversation best flourishes during a meeting when
each participant can see each other participant. Full eye contact
stimulates and encourages contributions, full comprehension, and
inspiration on the part of all participants. Also, it has been
shown that presentations are most effective when the presenter can
observe and adjust to the reactions of all audience members.
Conducting and participating in videoconferencing can be
distracting and confusing unless the faces of all participants
appear and remain in a continuous series in the display frame. Even
further, note taking and the review of meeting materials are most
effectively carried out when participants can simply look up from
their notepads, computer screens, or meeting materials and directly
at other participants, a speaker, and/or a display screen without
being forced to twist, turn, or maneuver back and forth to see.
[0004] Accomplishing these things with all meeting participants
sitting around a single table as is the case in a traditional
meeting framework can be achieved rather easily. However, modern
meeting situations often create circumstances where traditional
seating arrangements simply cannot provide users with the viewing
and communicative relationships described above as being necessary
to enabling all persons attending a meeting, whether in person or
virtually, to participate in the meeting and gain the benefits
thereof fully and effectively. In videoconferencing and many
presentation situations, for example, meeting participants in a
given location often find themselves sitting at a traditional table
while being forced to attempt to gain a direct view of a display
screen or presenter by turning or twisting away from a normal,
comfortable seating position and peering around other meeting
participants. In doing so, the meeting participant must forego the
stable work surface that would normally be aligned with his or her
seating position and directly in front of him or her. When a group
of participants are so disposed, persons viewing them either in
person or remotely cannot easily see the faces of all attendees but
instead see a confusing and distracting grouping of overlapping,
possibly unidentifiable persons.
[0005] As one knowledgeable in the art will be aware, therefore,
traditional table and seating arrangements prove far less than
ideal for conducting meetings, including videoconference meetings,
where multiple attendees in a given location seek to direct their
attention to a given person or communication device. The
knowledgeable observer will also be aware that traditional table
constructions, whether round, rectangular, oval, or any other
shape, are rigid in their performance such that they cannot easily
adapt to the varied needs of modern work and meeting environments.
Accordingly, it becomes clear that there is a need for a table
construction that can facilitate and adapt to the varied and
different needs of modern meeting situations including
videoconference and presentation type meetings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] With the foregoing in mind, a basic object of embodiments of
the present invention is to provide table and meeting constructions
and arrangements that can readily adapt to and facilitate a variety
of meeting formats.
[0007] A more particular object of embodiments of the invention is
to provide table and meeting constructions and arrangements that
can enable multiple meeting participants to have clear and direct
lines of sight relative to a centrally disposed person or
structure.
[0008] Another object of certain manifestations of the invention is
to provide table and meeting constructions and arrangements that
can convert between various configurations to adapt to and
facilitate different meeting types.
[0009] A further object of particular embodiments of the invention
is to provide table and meeting constructions and arrangements that
enhance the comfort and productivity of meeting participants.
[0010] These and further objects and advantages of the invention
will become obvious not only to one who reviews the present
specification and drawings but also to one who has an opportunity
to make use of an embodiment of the present invention for table and
meeting constructions and arrangements. However, it will be
appreciated that, although the accomplishment of each of the
foregoing objects in a single embodiment of the invention may be
possible and indeed preferred, not all embodiments will seek or
need to accomplish each and every potential object and advantage.
Nonetheless, all such embodiments should be considered within the
scope of the present invention.
[0011] One basic embodiment of the present invention for a table
construction is founded on first and second table members. Each
table member can be considered to have a proximal end and a distal
end and can be formed by a base structure and at least one support
surface retained by the base structure. The table construction can
further include a means for disposing the first table member and
the second table member in a chevron or generally V-shaped
arrangement.
[0012] While the first and second table members can be fixed in a
chevron arrangement, one embodiment of the invention incorporates a
means for pivotally coupling the first table member to the second
table member, such as by a pivotal coupling of their proximal ends.
Under such an arrangement, the first and second table members can
be pivoted between a closed configuration wherein the first table
member is in proximity to the second table member and an open
configuration wherein the first and second table members are
disposed in a chevron arrangement.
[0013] In one construction, the table construction can have plural
support surfaces retained by the base structures of each of the
first and second table members. The support surfaces can be
retained relative to their respective base structure by a support
arm that has a proximal end coupled to the base structure and a
distal end coupled to the support surface. In certain embodiments,
the support arms can be laterally pivotable relative to their
respective base structure such that the location of the support
surface retained by the support arm can be adjusted relative to the
respective base structure. Furthermore, the support surfaces can be
rotatably coupled to the support arms whereby the orientation of
the support surfaces relative to the support arms can be adjusted.
Still further, certain manifestations of the invention can have
support arms that are vertically pivotable relative to the
respective base structure, possibly by a parallel movement joint
arrangement, whereby the height of the support surface retained by
the support arm can be adjusted relative to the respective base
structure. In such a case, the table construction can include a
means for locking each support surface at a given height.
[0014] In another refinement, particularly where multiple support
surfaces are retained by each base structure, the table
construction can include at least one elongate central platform
retained by the base structure of the first or second table member.
The elongate central platform can be disposed inboard of the plural
support surfaces such that it will provide additional support
surface area and such that it will tend to bridge the distance
between support surfaces.
[0015] In particular embodiments of the invention, each of the
first and second table members can have a support surface with a
support surface proximal edge, a support surface distal edge, a
support surface facing edge, and a support surface outside edge.
The support surface proximal edges can cooperate to define a
generally V-shaped configuration when the first and second table
members are disposed in a closed configuration. Those support
surface proximal edges can tend to pivot into proximity with one
another when the first and second table members are pivoted to an
open configuration. A generally wedge-shaped insert can be provided
in combination with a means for removably and replaceably disposing
the wedge-shaped insert within the generally V-shaped configuration
defined by the support surface proximal edges when the first and
second table members are disposed in a closed configuration thereby
to provide a generally continuous surface. Even further, the
support surface distal edges can also cooperate to define a
generally V-shaped configuration when the first and second table
members are disposed in a closed configuration.
[0016] The table construction can further include a stand that has
a platform with a wedge-shaped portion that can occupy at least
part of the generally V-shaped configuration defined by either the
support surface proximal edges or the support surface distal edges
when the first and second table members are disposed in a closed
configuration. The stand can additionally or alternatively be
employed to support various articles, as a lectern, or for
substantially any other purpose. Under some embodiments of the
invention, a means can be included for providing lighting relative
to each of the plural support surfaces. That means could take a
number of forms including, for example, a low-level lighting
arrangement, such as an LED or an array of LED's, associated with
each of the plural support surfaces.
[0017] While the first and second table members can be crafted in
numerous different ways under the present invention, one embodiment
of the table construction has base structures each founded on
elongate frameworks that have a support leg disposed at a proximal
end thereof and a support leg disposed at a distal end thereof. The
support legs can extend diagonally outboard of the elongate
frameworks of the first and second table members to provide optimal
seating area for meeting participants. The table construction can
further include one or more casters rotatably coupled to each of
the frameworks of the first and second table members for easing the
movement and pivoting of the table construction.
[0018] Since the table construction can be expected to be used in
meeting and conference situations where electrical power and data
access will be integral, the table construction can additionally
include electrical wiring and connecting elements that are operably
associated with each of the first and second table members for
providing meeting participants with access to power and data
capabilities. Furthermore, each support surface can incorporate a
means for retaining power and data cords relative to each support
surface. For example, each support surface could have a cord
retaining inlet formed therein through which one or more power or
data cords could be passed.
[0019] In an even further aspect of the invention, the table
construction can include a means for altering the number of support
surfaces retained by the base structures of the first and second
table members. By way of example, the means for altering the number
of support surfaces retained by the base structures can comprise at
least one modular base structure extension and a means for coupling
the modular base structure extension to one of the base structures.
Each base structure extension can retain at least one support
surface, such as by a support arm.
[0020] The table construction can be employed as part of a meeting
arrangement in combination with a conferencing structure that can
be disposed in proximity to the table construction during a meeting
or conference. The conferencing structure can take the form of a
stand with a platform supported by a support structure. The first
and second table members can each have a support surface with a
support surface proximal edge, a support surface distal edge, a
support surface facing edge, and a support surface outside edge.
The support surface proximal edges and the support surface distal
edges can cooperate to define generally V-shaped configurations
when the first and second table members are disposed in a closed
configuration. In such a case, the platform of the stand can have
at least a wedge-shaped portion such that the stand can be disposed
with the wedge-shaped portion of the platform occupying at least
part of the generally V-shaped configuration defined by either the
support surface proximal edges or the support surface distal edges
when the first and second table members are disposed in a closed
configuration thereby to tend to bridge the gap exhibited by the
V-shaped configuration. To enhance its versatility, the stand can
further include a means for adjusting a height of the platform and
a means for adjusting a pitch of the platform.
[0021] In another embodiment, the conferencing structure can
comprise a modular base framework with first and second stanchions,
upper and lower cross members each with first ends coupled
modularly to the first stanchion and second ends coupled modularly
to the second stanchion, an upper support surface for supporting at
least one display article, and at least one lower support surface.
Under such a construction, stanchions, cross members, and support
surfaces of varied lengths can be employed to vary a size of the
conferencing structure. In still another embodiment, the
conferencing structure can be formed as a combination display
arrangement with a base, multiple display elements, and a means for
enabling a selective display of one or more of the display
elements. That means can take the form of a means for enabling at
least one display element to slide into and out of an overlapping
relationship with at least one other display element. In some
cases, the conferencing structure can comprise a teleconferencing
arrangement with a display screen, a camera system, and a means for
supporting the display screen and the camera system.
[0022] One will appreciate that the foregoing discussion broadly
outlines certain more important goals and features of the invention
to enable a better understanding of the detailed description that
follows and to instill a better appreciation of the inventor's
contribution to the art. Before an embodiment of the invention is
explained in detail, it must be made clear that the following
details of construction, descriptions of geometry, and
illustrations of inventive concepts are mere examples of the many
possible manifestations of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0023] In the accompanying drawing figures:
[0024] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a meeting arrangement with a
table construction according to the present invention in an open
configuration;
[0025] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the table construction of
FIG. 1 in a closed configuration;
[0026] FIG. 3 is a view in side elevation of an alternative support
surface and support arm arrangement;
[0027] FIGS. 4A through 4D are top plan views of embodiments of
table and meeting constructions and arrangements under the present
invention with varying numbers of support surfaces;
[0028] FIG. 4E is a perspective view of an embodiment of the table
construction with modular base structure extensions;
[0029] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the
table construction;
[0030] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a
meeting arrangement with a table construction in an open
configuration;
[0031] FIGS. 7A and 7B are perspective views of stands under the
instant invention;
[0032] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of still another embodiment of
the table construction;
[0033] FIGS. 9A through 9C are top plan views of embodiments of
table and meeting constructions and arrangements under the present
invention in varying configurations;
[0034] FIGS. 10A and 10B are top plan views of multiple table
constructions cooperating to form a meeting arrangement;
[0035] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of still another embodiment of
the table construction;
[0036] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the table construction of
FIG. 11 in a teleconferencing meeting arrangement;
[0037] FIGS. 13A through 13C are top plan views of embodiments of
table and meeting constructions and arrangements under the present
invention in varying configurations;
[0038] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of still another refinement of
the table construction;
[0039] FIGS. 15A and 15B are views in side elevation of still
further embodiments of the table construction;
[0040] FIGS. 16A and 16B are top plan views of multiple table
constructions cooperating to form a meeting arrangement;
[0041] FIGS. 17A and 17B are perspective views of combination
display arrangements according to the present invention; and
[0042] FIG. 18A is a view in front elevation of the conferencing
arrangement of FIG. 1;
[0043] FIG. 18B is a view in front elevation of a variation of the
conferencing arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 18A;
[0044] FIG. 18C is a perspective view of the conferencing
arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 18A; and
[0045] FIG. 18D is a perspective view of a further variation of the
conferencing arrangement of FIGS. 1 and 18A.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0046] As with many inventions, the present invention for table and
meeting constructions and arrangements can assume a wide variety of
embodiments. However, to assist those reviewing the present
disclosure in understanding and, in appropriate circumstances,
practicing the present invention, certain exemplary embodiments of
the table and meeting constructions and arrangements are described
below and shown in the accompanying drawing figures.
[0047] Looking first to FIG. 1, a first exemplary embodiment of a
table construction according to the present invention is indicated
generally at 10. There, the table construction 10 is founded on a
first table member 12 that is pivotally coupled to a second table
member 14 at a pivot axis 20. In this case, the first table member
12 has a base structure 16 that retains a plurality of support
surfaces 22 by corresponding support arms 24. Similarly, the second
table member 12 has a base structure 18 that retains a plurality of
support surfaces 22 by corresponding support arms 24. Still
further, a support surface 22 is retained by a support arm 24
relative to the pivot axis 20 of the table construction 10.
[0048] Under even this most basically described arrangement, the
table construction 10 advantageously can be readily converted
between what can be considered an open configuration wherein the
first and second table members 12 and 14 are disposed in a chevron
arrangement as is shown, for example, in FIG. 1 and what can be
considered a closed configuration wherein the first and second
table members 12 and 14 are disposed in proximity to one another as
is shown, for example, in FIGS. 2 and 9B. As one can appreciate
from FIG. 1 and as can be seen most clearly in FIG. 9A, when the
first and second table members 12 and 14 are arranged in an open
configuration, the support surfaces 22 of the first and second
table members 12 and 14 are angularly and sequentially spaced
relative to a centrally disposed person or structure.
[0049] In the depiction of the meeting arrangement of FIG. 1, the
centrally disposed structure comprises a conferencing arrangement
100, which in this case comprises a teleconferencing arrangement
100, that has a display screen 102 that can cooperate with a camera
system 104 for enabling a mutual viewing of persons and materials
viewed by the camera system 104 and remotely located persons and
materials viewed by a corresponding camera system (not shown). In
this example, the display screen 102 and the camera system 104 are
supported by a base framework 110 that has an upper support surface
106 on which the display screen 102 and the camera system are
disposed and a lower support surface 108 on which further equipment
and materials (not shown in FIG. 1) can be disposed. It will be
appreciated, of course, that the centrally disposed person or
structure could vary. For example, the teleconferencing arrangement
100 could be supplemented or replaced by one or more moderating
persons, by a video screen arrangement, by a display board, or by
any other structure, person, or material to which a group's
attention might be directed.
[0050] As a result, meeting participants (not shown) seated
relative to or otherwise associated with the support surfaces 22
will enjoy direct and unimpeded lines of sight and communication
relative the centrally disposed person or structure. Where the
centrally disposed person or structure comprises a teleconferencing
arrangement 100 as shown in FIGS. 1 and 9C, this disposition
enables each meeting participant to see the display screen 102 of
the teleconferencing arrangement 100 without being forced to twist,
lean, and otherwise attempt to peer around interposed meeting
participants. With this, each meeting participant can readily view
any material that might be displayed on the display screen 102,
such as remote meeting participants, instructional information, and
entertainment. Just as importantly, each meeting participant
situated relative to a given spaced support surface 22 can be
directly imaged by the camera 104 of the teleconferencing
arrangement 100 such that the meeting participants can be seen
clearly and identifiably by remotely disposed meeting participants
and, additionally or alternatively, can be recorded as such by any
appropriate recording medium.
[0051] FIGS. 6 and 9A depict a further use of the table
construction 10 wherein it is disposed in an open or chevron
arrangement. There, the table construction 10 is oriented to allow
meeting participants seated or otherwise disposed relative to the
support surfaces 22 to view a screen arrangement 112, such as might
be used for a video presentation. In FIG. 6, one sees that the
screen arrangement 112 has a blank display screen 114 supported by
a framework 118 that has a base 116. Of course, in many cases, it
may be possible to eliminate the screen arrangement 112 altogether
by simply projecting images onto any suitable surface, such as a
blank wall. A stand 120, which is again shown in FIG. 7A, is
received into the open area between the first and second table
members 12 and 14. The stand 120 has a platform 122 supported by a
base 124 that is disposed on casters 132 for enabling a convenient
movement of the stand 120. During this use of the table
construction 10 and the stand 120, the platform 122 can be used for
supporting a projector 126, which can be of any type.
[0052] Since video presentation situations normally demand a
darkened room, each support surface 22 of the table construction 10
incorporates a low-level lighting arrangement 38, which is
described in greater detail below. In FIG. 9C, where the table
construction 10 is again shown in an open configuration, the stand
120 has been moved out of the meeting participants' lines of sight
to enable a meeting to be conducted wherein the screen arrangement
112 does not have images projected thereon but instead is used to
display images applied thereto or associated therewith by any
appropriate method.
[0053] Looking more particularly to FIG. 7A, the stand 120 is shown
to incorporate a means for adjusting the height of the platform
122. Of course, such an adjustment could be carried out in numerous
ways that would readily occur to one skilled in the art after
reading this disclosure. In this embodiment, the height adjustment
means comprises a pair of vertically disposed support rods 128 that
are slidably associated with a receiver arrangement 130. The
receiver arrangement 130 could comprise any means for slidably
engaging the support rods 128. For example, it could take the form
of first and second sleeves (not shown) for matingly receiving the
support rods 128. In this case, the receiver arrangement 130
comprises a panel with sleeves affixed thereto or formed therewith.
Detents, friction engaging knobs, or any other means can be
provided for selectively locking the platform 122 at a given
height. Of course, the shape and dimensions of the platform 122
could vary widely within the scope of the invention. In the
examples of FIGS. 6, 7A, and 7B, the platforms 122 have truncated
wedge shapes. The pitch of the platform 122 is adjustable thereby
enabling a most convenient aiming of the projector 126 and enabling
the stand 120 to be used to great advantage as a lectern for
presentations, speeches, and the like.
[0054] A further version of the stand 120 is depicted in FIG. 7B.
The stand 120 again has a platform 122 that is supported by a base
124. The base 124 again has support rods 128 that are slidably
received relative to a receiver arrangement 130. In this case,
however, the receiver arrangement 130 incorporates a cabinet
arrangement 134 with one or more drawers, shelves, or other support
and storage components. Casters 132 again support the base 124 for
enabling a ready relocation and orientation of the stand 120.
[0055] Where the first and second table members 12 and 14 are
pivotable relative to one another as in the present embodiment, the
table construction 10 can be readily reconfigured to a closed
configuration by a simple pivoting of the first table member 12
into proximity with the second table member 14 as is illustrated in
FIG. 2. There, the first and second table members 12 and 14 have
been pivoted about the pivot axis 20 until their base structures 16
and 18 are in immediate proximity and are essentially parallel to
one another. When the table construction 10 is so configured, the
support surfaces 22 retained relative to the base structures 16 and
18 of the first and second table members 12 and 14 are disposed in
a facing relationship, and the support surface 22 retained relative
to the pivot axis 20 is disposed inboard of the remaining support
surfaces 22. When so arranged, the table construction 10 can be
used to great advantage in face-to-face meeting situations where
the meeting participants need not direct most or all of their
attention to a centrally disposed person or structure.
[0056] Looking more particularly to the structures of the first and
second table members 12 and 14, one sees that the base structures
16 and 18 in the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2 comprise elongate,
generally rectangular frameworks with free distal ends and
pivotally joined proximal ends. The first and second table members
12 and 14 are each coupled in a pivotable relationship to the pivot
axis 20, which in this case comprises an elongate tube or rod, and
free distal ends. Each base structure 16 and 18 has a leg 28
projecting from its distal end and a base leg 28 projecting from
its proximal end. In each case, the base legs 28 extend along
outward diagonals from the ends of the base structures 16 and 18
thereby giving the table construction 10 optimal stability while
minimizing interference with the available seating area. The base
legs 28 can be supplemented in supporting the base structures 16
and 18 and the first and second table members 12 and 14 in general
by casters 30 that can be disposed adjacent to the proximal and
distal ends of each of the base structures 16 and 18 so that the
first and second table members 12 and 14 can be pivoted between
open and closed configurations most smoothly and easily and so that
the table construction 10 in general can be most stable.
[0057] The table construction 10 in this exemplary embodiment
integrates all wiring and connecting elements necessary for
providing meeting participants with the power, data, and
communication capabilities necessary to support the electronic
devices nearly inherent to current meeting situations. More
particularly, each base structure 16 and 18 provides a plurality of
power outlets 26 and data and communication connections 27 spaced
along the length thereof such that each meeting participant will
have dedicated power, data, and communication capabilities. The
power outlets 26 and the data and communication connections 27 can
be of any appropriate type or types. For example, certain data and
communication connections 27 can simply provide access to standard
telephone service while others can provide access to more advanced
high speed data and communication connections, such as T1 and LAN
communication connections.
[0058] Each support surface 22 in this embodiment comprises a
generally planar, generally rectangular, and rigid tablet. The
support surfaces 22 each have what can be considered a facing edge
that is disposed facing inwardly and what can be termed an outside
edge that is disposed facing outwardly. The support surfaces 22
retained relative to the base structures 16 and 18 each have what
can be termed a proximal edge nearest the proximal ends of the
first and second table members 12 and 14 and a distal edge nearest
the distal ends of the first and second table members 12 and 14.
The support surface 22 retained relative to the pivot axis 20 can
be considered simply to have a left edge to the side of the first
table member 12 and a right edge to the side of the second table
member 14.
[0059] Each support surface 22 incorporates a beverage retainer 32
adjacent to its facing edge for providing a segregated location for
a user to dispose a coffee cup, a beverage can or bottle, or any
other beverage container (not shown). To ensure that the beverage
is at least somewhat protected from spillage and to contain any
incidental spillage that might occur, each beverage retainer 32 has
a base portion and an annular peripheral edge. The beverage
retainer 32 could be formed integrally with the remainder of the
support surface 22 or it could be separately formed and coupled
thereto.
[0060] The support surfaces 22 further include a cord retaining
inlet 34 that can be formed in or coupled to the respective support
surface 22 through which one or more power or data cords (not
shown) can be passed thereby to retain the cord or cords in a
stable and unobtrusive manner. In cooperation with the integrated
power outlets 26 and the data and communication connections 27, the
cord retaining inlets 34 can minimize the risks of entanglement and
tripping relative to power and data cords, which can be
particularly problematic where a meeting room must be darkened for
a presentation or the like and where multiple meeting participants
have would otherwise have power and data cords strewn over a floor
surface.
[0061] The support arms 24 could simply retain the support surfaces
22 in a fixed location and orientation relative to the base
structures 16 and 18 and the pivot axis 20. However, in the
embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, the locations of the support surfaces
22 can be adjusted by use of a laterally pivotable coupling 23 of
the proximal end of each support arm relative to the respective
base structure 16 or 18 or relative to the pivot axis 20 as the
case may be. Furthermore, the relative orientations of the support
surfaces 22 can be adjusted by a rotatable coupling 25 of the
support surfaces 22 relative to the distal ends of the support arms
24. Under such an embodiment, a meeting participant can readily
manipulate the relative location and orientation of the support
surfaces 22 to suit, among other things, his or her personal
preferences, the location of other participants, and numerous other
factors.
[0062] A further arrangement for the support arms 24 and support
surfaces 22 is shown in FIG. 3. There, the support arms 24 are
again laterally pivotable by use of a coupling 23, and the
orientation of the support surfaces 22 can again be adjusted by
means of a rotatable coupling 25 between the support surfaces 22
and the support arms 24. The depicted embodiment further
incorporates a means for adjusting the height of the support
surfaces 22 relative to the base structures 16 and 18. That means
could, by way of example, comprise a parallel movement arm
arrangement 29, such as a spring balanced arm arrangement. The arm
arrangement 29 could alternatively or additionally incorporate
friction joints, detents, or any other suitable means for enabling
the angular disposition of the support arm 24 to be adjusted and
then maintained or locked at a given height. One possible means for
locking the support arm 24 at a given angular disposition is shown
in FIG. 3 in the form of tension adjustment knobs 31 and 33. In a
still further refinement, the pitch of the support surface 22 could
be adjustable by a means for pivoting the support surface 22 about
a horizontal axis. In this embodiment, that means comprises a
selectively adjustable friction-type knob joint 37 in combination
with a retaining fork 35 that pivotally supports the support
surface 22 at its lateral edges.
[0063] While the embodiment of the table construction 10 shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2 has a total of seven support surfaces 22 such that
seven meeting participants could be comfortably accommodated, it
will be appreciated that embodiments of the table construction 10
could well provide fewer or additional support surfaces 22. By way
of example, FIG. 4A shows an embodiment of the table construction
10 that has just three support surfaces 22 while FIG. 4B depicts a
version of the table construction 10 that provides five support
surfaces. The embodiment of FIG. 4C is similar to the embodiments
of FIGS. 1 and 2 in that it retains seven support surfaces 22 while
the table construction of FIG. 4D incorporates nine support
surfaces 22.
[0064] Of course, the number of support surfaces 22 provided by the
table construction 10 could be fixed, such as during initial
assembly. However, under certain embodiments of the invention, the
number of support surfaces 22 and, therefore, the overall size and
capacity of the table construction 10 can be changed with the
addition or deletion of modular components. For example, as is
shown in FIG. 4E, the table construction 10 could be founded on a
structure with first and second table members 12 and 14 with base
structures 16 and 18 each retaining a single support surface 22 and
a third support surface 22 retained relative to the pivot axis 20.
Where additional meeting participants are to be accommodated, a
modular base structure extension 36 can be fixed to the distal end
of the base structure 16 and a modular base structure extension 36
can be fixed to the distal end of the base structure 18. Each base
structure extension 36 can retain one or more support surfaces 22
by support arms 24 thereby expanding the capacity of the table
construction 10. If further capacity is necessary or desirable,
additional modular base structure extensions 36 with associated
support surfaces 22 can be fixed to the distal ends of the
proximally disposed base structure extension or extensions 36. Of
course, where the extended capacity provided by the base structure
extensions 36 is no longer necessary, one or more of the base
structure extensions 36 can be detached and removed.
[0065] Any effective means could be employed for coupling the base
structure extensions 36 to the base structures 16 and 18. For
example, standard fasteners 40 could be employed. Additionally or
alternatively, the ends of the base structures 16 and 18 and the
base structure extensions 36 could incorporate mutually engaging
elements, such as rigid hooks and corresponding apertures. In any
case, the base structure extensions 36 could incorporate their own
base leg or legs 28. Alternatively, the base legs 28 could be
coupled to the base structures 16 and 18 and the base structure
extensions 36 to be readily removable and replaceable such that,
when a base structure extension 36 is to be added or removed, the
base leg 28 can be removed from the previous distal end of the
table member 12 or 14 and coupled to the new distal end of the
table member 12 or 14.
[0066] FIG. 4E also depicts a further possible refinement of the
table construction 10 in the form of lighting arrangements 38
associated with each of the support surfaces 22. While the lighting
arrangements 38 could be of any appropriate type, in one presently
preferred embodiment, the lighting arrangements 38 provide
low-level lighting such that the lighting arrangements 38 can be
activated even during meeting situations where the room has been
intentionally darkened to enable a presentation or the like. While
a number of types of low-level lighting arrangements 38 could be
used to good advantage under the present invention, one presently
contemplated lighting arrangement 38 comprises LED low-level
lighting. Advantageously, such low-level lighting can enable
meeting participants to view one another and materials disposed on
the supporting surface 22 and possibly elsewhere while not
adversely interfering with the darkness required for certain
meeting situations, such as video and similar presentations.
[0067] Looking to FIG. 5, one sees a variant of the table
construction 10 that again has first and second table members 12
and 14 with base structures 16 and 18 that are coupled, possibly
pivotally, at their proximal ends. For example, the first and
second table members 12 and 14 could again be pivotally coupled a
pivot axis 20. Each base structure 16 and 18 again retains a
plurality of support surfaces 22 by corresponding support arms 24.
In this embodiment, however, the base structures 16 and 18 can be
considered simplified in that they are essentially founded on a
basic, generally rectangular open framework 42. In each case, the
framework 42 has one or more privacy screens 44 affixed along the
length thereof.
[0068] Yet another embodiment of the table construction 10 is shown
in FIG. 8 where it is disposed in a closed configuration with the
base structures 16 and 18 of the first and second table members 12
and 14 in immediate proximity to one another such that meeting
participants would be in a generally face-to-face relationship.
While a support surface 22 is retained by a support arm 24 that
extends from the pivot axis 20 at the proximal ends of the base
structures 16 and 18, a stand 120 is disposed in the gap left at
the distal ends of the base structures 16 and 18 for supporting any
necessary or desirable article or articles. Low-level lighting
arrangements 38 are associated with each support surface 22 for
providing meeting participants with light where necessary. Finally,
elongate central platforms 46 and 48 are respectively retained by
the first and second base structures 16 and 18 to provide greater
surface area relative to the table construction 10 and to bridge at
least part of the gap between the various support surfaces 22.
[0069] The range of pivoting of the first and second table members
12 and 14 could vary within the scope of the invention. Indeed, in
certain embodiments, the first and second table members 12 and 14
could be pivotable between 0 degrees where the base structures 16
and 18 are immediately adjacent and generally parallel to one
another and 180 degrees or more where the base structures 16 and 18
are generally in line with one another. Alternatively, the range of
pivoting could be limited to any given angle, such as 45 degrees,
90 degrees, 120 degrees, or any other angle.
[0070] Advantageously, the pivotable relationship of the first and
second table members 12 and 14 allows further meeting arrangements
even beyond those described previously. By way of example, in FIGS.
10A and 10B, one sees multiple table constructions 10 according to
the present invention mutually associated in open or chevron
configurations to provide larger meeting arrangements to
accommodate additional meeting participants. In FIG. 10A, first and
second table constructions 10A and 10B are associated to form a
rectangular meeting arrangement of a given size while first,
second, third, and fourth table constructions 10A, 10B, 10C, and
10D cooperate to form a larger rectangular meeting arrangement in
FIG. 10B. In each case, the first and second table members 12 and
14 of the table constructions 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D are pivotable
to at least a 90 degree relationship. In FIG. 10A, the first and
second table constructions 10A and 10B are opened to approximately
90 degrees and are associated with the distal ends of the table
members 12 and 14 adjacent to one another in a generally
perpendicular relationship. In FIG. 10B, the first, second, third,
and fourth table constructions 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D are again
opened to approximately 90 degrees and the distal ends of the table
members 12 and 14 are disposed adjacent to one another in a
generally in-line relationship. Advantageously, with the diagonal
disposition of the base legs 28, a wedge-shaped gap is created
between adjacent table constructions 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D. Those
gaps can be employed to receive first, second, third, and fourth
stands 120A, 120B, 120C, and 120D, particularly where those stands
120A, 120B, 120C, and 120D have truncated wedge-shaped platforms
122 that tend to correspond to the wedge shape of the gaps between
adjacent table constructions 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D.
[0071] The above-described table constructions with multiple
independent support surfaces 22 can be advantageous, and indeed
preferred, in many circumstances. However, in other circumstances,
one or more generally continuous work surfaces may be advantageous.
Such a table construction 10 is shown, for example, in FIG. 11.
There, each of the first and second table members 12 and 14 retains
a single, at least generally continuous support surface 22 relative
its respective base structure 16 or 18. The base structures 16 and
18 are again pivotally joined at their proximal ends at a pivot
axis 20.
[0072] Each support surface 22 in this embodiment has what can be
considered a support surface facing edge that faces the opposing
support surface 22, a support surface outside edge that faces
outwardly from the table construction 10, a support surface
proximal edge adjacent to the proximal ends of the first and second
table members 12 and 14, and a support surface distal edge adjacent
to the distal ends of the first and second table members 12 and 14.
In this case, the support surface outside edges are contoured to
provide what can be considered ergonomic bays for accommodating
meeting participants while the support surface facing edges and
proximal and distal edges are generally straight.
[0073] The support surface proximal and distal edges are angled
relative to the base structures 16 and 18 thereby to provide a
generally wedge-shaped gap between them when the table construction
10 is in a closed configuration as is shown in FIG. 11. The angles
of the proximal and distal edges of the support surfaces 22 could
certainly vary. In this example, the proximal and distal edges are
disposed at an angle of roughly forty-five degrees relative to the
longitudinal orientation of the respective base structure 16 or 18.
When the first and second table members 12 and 14 are pivoted to an
open configuration, such as is shown in FIG. 12, the gap between
the support surface proximal ends will tend to narrow and, with
sufficient pivoting, close completely such that the support surface
proximal edges will meet whereby the support surfaces 22 will form
an effectively continuous surface. When the proximal edges are
disposed at approximately forty-five degrees, the first and second
table members 12 and 14 can be pivoted through a range of 90
degrees until they are generally perpendicular to one another as is
shown, for example, in FIGS. 13A and 13C.
[0074] When the table construction 10 is in a closed configuration,
the wedge-shaped gaps between the proximal and distal edges of the
support surfaces 22 certainly could be left open. However, as is
shown by way of example in FIGS. 11 and 13B, those gaps could be
spanned by correspondingly wedge-shaped inserts 50. The inserts 50
could be affixed in a removable and replaceable manner relative to
the first and second table members 12 and 14 by any appropriate
means. Under this arrangement, the wedge-shaped inserts 50 can
enable the table construction 10 to approximate the shape and
functionality of a traditional table when the first and second
table members 12 and 14 are in a closed configuration. Furthermore,
the wedge-shaped inserts 50 can be removed to enable a pivoting of
the table construction 10 to an open configuration.
[0075] Turning to FIG. 14, one sees that the table construction 10
again can provide meeting participants with access to power and
data, which in this case is carried out with the incorporation of a
power/data supply 54 that has plural power connections 26 and
plural data connections 27 and one or more power/data supply cords
52 extending therefrom. As such, multiple meeting participants can
make use of various electronic and communication devices, such as
the depicted notebook computer 136, without necessitating a nest of
wires surrounding the table construction 10.
[0076] In FIGS. 15A and 15B, a table construction 10 is shown with
generally continuous support surfaces 22 retained relative to the
base structures 16 and 18 of each of the first and second table
members 12 and 14. In each case, the wedge-shaped gap between the
support surface proximal ends is spanned by a correspondingly
shaped insert 50. However, the wedge-shaped gap between the support
surface distal ends is occupied by a stand 120 similar to that
previously described. In FIG. 15A, the stand 120 has a cabinet-type
receiver arrangement 130 while the stand 120 in FIG. 15B has a
panel-type receiver arrangement 130. When the stand 120 is so
situated, the platform 122 can occupy the gap between the proximal
surface distal ends, particularly when the platform 122 is wedge
shaped. The stand 120 can be used simply to complete the surface of
the table construction 10, or to provide a lectern, or for any
other purpose. To be complete, one will note that the stand 120 and
the insert 50 could be oppositely disposed relative to the support
surface proximal and distal ends.
[0077] FIGS. 15A and 15B show another refinement in the form of one
or more lighting arrangements 38. A single lighting arrangement 38
could be secured relative to either the first or the second table
member 12 or 14. Alternatively, first and second lighting
arrangements 38 can be fixed in place relative to each of the first
and second table members 12 and 14. In any event, the lighting
arrangement or arrangements 38 could be of any desired type. For
example, they could comprise high-powered fluorescent or
incandescent lights. Alternatively or additionally, the lighting
arrangement or arrangements 38 could incorporate low-level lighting
capabilities, such as by an array of LED's or other suitable
arrangements.
[0078] As with the earlier described table construction 10 with
multiple support surfaces 22 retained relative to each of the first
and second table members 12 and 14, multiple embodiments of the
present table construction 10 can be employed in combination to
form further meeting arrangements. For example, in FIG. 16A, two
table constructions 10A and 10B cooperate to form a rectangular
meeting arrangement by having their support surface distal ends
disposed in contact such that the adjacent table members 12 and 14
are perpendicular to one another. In FIG. 16B, four table
constructions 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D are combined to form a still
larger meeting arrangement with adjacent table members 12 and 14
generally aligned end to end. Stands 120A, 120B, 120C, and 120D are
again interposed between the distal ends of the table constructions
10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D.
[0079] FIGS. 17A and 17B depict a combination display arrangement
138 that can be used in a variety of meeting formats. As such, the
combination display arrangement 138 has a framework 140 that is
supported by a base 142. The framework 140 could comprise a flat
panel arrangement as is shown in FIG. 17B. Alternatively, the
framework 140 could comprise a cabinet arrangement with one or more
drawers, shelves, or other storage and support elements for
retaining electronic components, materials to be displayed, or
substantially any other material. The framework 140 can retain a
display screen 144, such as a flat panel type screen. The framework
140 can additionally retain a display board 146, such as a
dry-erase board, a traditional chalkboard, a paperboard, or any
other display board 146. In this embodiment, one or both of the
display screen 144 and the display board 146 is slidably received
in a slot 148 in the framework 140 such that a user can selectively
exhibit the display screen 144, the display board 146, or any other
display surface or structure, by a selective sliding of necessary
elements relative to the slot 148.
[0080] Finally, FIGS. 18A through 18D illustrate the versatility of
the conferencing arrangement of FIG. 1. As FIGS. 18A through 18D
make clear, the conferencing arrangement 100 of FIG. 1 can be made
to be modular such that it can adapt to a wide variety of
conferencing needs. In FIG. 18A, the conferencing arrangement 100
is shown to have a base framework 110 formed by first and second
stanchions 101 and 103 with upper ends modularly engaged with first
and second upper coupling members 111 and 113 respectively and
lower ends modularly engaged with first and second lower coupling
members 115 and 117. The conferencing arrangement 100 further has
upper and lower cross members 105 and 107 each with first ends
respectively coupled modularly to the first upper coupling member
111 and the first lower coupling member 115 and with second ends
respectively coupled modularly to the second upper coupling member
113 and the second lower coupling member 117. The upper support
surface 106 is supported by the upper cross member 105 in
cooperation with the first and second upper coupling members 111
and 113, and the lower support surface 108 is supported by the
lower cross member 107, possibly in cooperation with the first and
second lower coupling members 115 and 117.
[0081] By exploiting the modularity of the above-described
conferencing arrangement 100, a wide variety of configurations can
be achieved to enable significant versatility in the support
provided by the conferencing arrangement 100. For example, in FIGS.
18A and 18C, the upper and lower cross members 105 and 107 and the
upper and lower support surfaces 106 and 108 are formed with
lengths calibrated such that the conferencing arrangement 100 is
relatively narrow in width such that it would be suitable for
supporting, for example, a single display screen 102. In FIG. 18B,
however, the upper and lower cross members 105 and 107 and the
upper and lower support surfaces 106 and 108 are appreciably longer
such that the conferencing arrangement 100 is relatively wider
whereby it would be suitable, for example, for retaining first and
second display screens 102A and 102B. Of course, it will be
appreciated that the upper and lower support surfaces 106 and 108
can be employed in either case to retain electronic equipment,
media materials, books, advertising material, and substantially any
other structure or combination of structures.
[0082] Additionally, by a further exploitation of the modularity of
the conferencing arrangement 100, the lengths of the first and
second stanchions 101 and 103 can be varied to achieve still
further display and storage abilities. While the first and second
stanchions 101 and 103 in FIGS. 18A, 18B, and 18C have a length
chosen to provide, by way of example, just one lower support
surface 108, longer stanchions 101 and 103 can be substituted as in
FIG. 18D for enabling sufficient space for disposing first, second,
and third lower support surfaces 108A, 108B, and 108C therebetween.
Of course, fewer or more support surfaces 108 can readily be
provided within the scope of the invention, particularly by use of
the versatility provided by the modular nature of the components of
the conferencing arrangement 100.
[0083] With a plurality of exemplary embodiments of the present
invention for a table construction 10 disclosed, it will be
appreciated by one skilled in the art that numerous changes and
additions could be made thereto without deviating from the spirit
or scope of the invention. This is particularly true when one bears
in mind that the presently preferred embodiments merely exemplify
the broader invention revealed herein. Accordingly, it will be
clear that those with major features of the invention in mind could
craft embodiments that incorporate those major features while not
incorporating all of the features included in the preferred
embodiments.
[0084] Therefore, the following claims shall define the scope of
protection to be afforded the inventor. Those claims shall be
deemed to include equivalent constructions insofar as they do not
depart from the spirit and scope of the invention. It must be
further noted that a plurality of the following claims may express
certain elements as means for performing a specific function, at
times without the recital of structure or material. As the law
demands, these claims shall be construed to cover not only the
corresponding structure and material expressly described in this
specification but also equivalents thereof.
* * * * *