U.S. patent application number 11/652228 was filed with the patent office on 2007-08-02 for multi-use conferencing space, table arrangement and display configuration.
Invention is credited to Mark A. Baloga, Carl V. III Forslund, Frank G. Graziano, John R. Hamilton, Karl H. Mueller.
Application Number | 20070175131 11/652228 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36572607 |
Filed Date | 2007-08-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070175131 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mueller; Karl H. ; et
al. |
August 2, 2007 |
Multi-use conferencing space, table arrangement and display
configuration
Abstract
A partition assembly for use in a space including a floor
structure and at least a first workspace where the workspace
includes a first egress along a first side, the assembly including
a first support positionable to extend upward from the floor
structure adjacent the at least a first workspace and at least a
first closure structure supported by the first support proximate
the workspace for movement between a first position wherein the
closure structure is at least in part located above the workspace
and a second position wherein the closure structure is located at
least one of adjacent the first egress and within the first egress
so as to restrict movement through the first egress.
Inventors: |
Mueller; Karl H.;
(Rosenheim, DE) ; Forslund; Carl V. III; (Grand
Rapids, MI) ; Graziano; Frank G.; (East Grand Rapids,
MI) ; Baloga; Mark A.; (East Grand Rapids, MI)
; Hamilton; John R.; (Grand Rapids, MI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
QUARLES & BRADY LLP
411 E. WISCONSIN AVENUE
SUITE 2040
MILWAUKEE
WI
53202-4497
US
|
Family ID: |
36572607 |
Appl. No.: |
11/652228 |
Filed: |
January 11, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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11005595 |
Dec 6, 2004 |
|
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11652228 |
Jan 11, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/239 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 87/002 20130101;
A47B 2200/0079 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/239 |
International
Class: |
E04H 1/00 20060101
E04H001/00 |
Claims
1. A partition assembly for use in a space including a floor
structure and at least a first workspace where the workspace
includes a first egress along a first side, the assembly
comprising: a first support positionable to extend upward from the
floor structure adjacent the at least a first workspace; and at
least a first closure structure supported by the first support
proximate the workspace for movement between a first position
wherein the closure structure is at least in part located above the
workspace and a second position wherein the closure structure is
located at least one of adjacent the first egress and within the
first egress so as to restrict movement through the first
egress.
2. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the closure structure is
pivotally mounted to the first support for movement between the
first and second positions about a first substantially horizontal
pivot axis.
3. The assembly of claim 2 wherein the closure structure includes a
substantially planar and substantially rectilinear first panel
member that is at least somewhat vertical when the closure
structure is in the second position.
4. The assembly of claim 3 wherein the first panel member includes
a first edge and the closure structure includes a second
substantially planar and substantially rectilinear panel member
that is connected along the first edge of the first panel member,
the first and second panel members forming an obtuse angle.
5. The assembly of claim 4 wherein the second panel member is
substantially horizontal and at least in part above the workspace
when the first closure structure is in the first position.
6. The assembly of claim 3 further including at least a first flat
panel display screen supported by the closure structure.
7. The assembly of claim 6 wherein the first panel member includes
an internal surface that faces the workspace when the closure
member is in each of the first and second positions and wherein the
first flat panel display is supported by the closure member so as
to face the workspace when the closure structure is in each of the
first and second positions.
8. The assembly of claim 1 further including a second support
spaced apart from the first support by the workspace wherein the
first closure structure is also supported by the second support for
movement between the first and second positions.
9. The assembly of claim 8 wherein each of the first and second
supports include a top end and wherein the assembly further
includes an arch member that connects the tops ends of the first
and second supports together.
10. The assembly of claim 8 wherein the first closure member is
pivotally supported by the first and second supports for movement
between the first and second positions.
11. The assembly of claim 8 wherein each of the first and second
supports includes a track, the first closure structure includes
rollers and wherein at least a subset of the rollers are receivable
in and moveable along the tracks as the first closure structure
moves between the first and second positions.
12. The assembly of claim 1 wherein the workspace includes a second
egress along a second side, the assembly further including a second
closure structure supported by the first support proximate the
workspace for movement between a first position wherein the second
closure structure is at least in part located above the workspace
and a second position wherein the second closure structure is
located at least one of adjacent the second egress and within the
second egress so as to restrict movement through the second
egress.
13. The assembly of claim 12 wherein the first closure structure is
pivotally mounted to the first support for rotation about a first
horizontal axis and wherein the second closure structure is
pivotally mounted to the first support for rotation about a second
horizontal axis.
14. The assembly of claim 13 wherein each of the first and second
closure structures includes at least a first substantially flat
rectilinear panel wherein the first panels are substantially
horizontal when the closure structures are in the first positions
and are at least in part vertically oriented when the closure
structures are in the second positions.
15. The assembly of claim 14 further including a second support
spaced apart from the first support by the workspace wherein each
of the first and second closure structures are further supported by
the second support member for movement between the first and second
positions.
16. A partition assembly for use in a space including a floor
structure and at least a first workspace where the workspace
includes first and second egresses along first and second sides,
respectively, the assembly comprising: first and second supports
positionable to extend upward from the floor structure on opposite
sides of and adjacent the at least a first workspace; a first
closure panel supported by the first and second supports for
movement between a first position wherein the first closure panel
is at least in part located above the workspace and a second
position wherein the first closure panel is located at least one of
adjacent the first egress and within the first egress so as to
restrict movement through the first egress; and a second closure
panel supported by the first and second supports for movement
between a first position wherein the second closure panel is at
least in part located above the workspace and a second position
wherein the second closure panel is located at least one of
adjacent the second egress and within the second egress so as to
restrict movement through the second egress; wherein each of the
first and second closure panels is substantially horizontal when in
the first position and is at least in part vertically oriented when
in the second position.
17. A conferencing assembly comprising: first and second display
screen structures arranged on opposite sides of a conferencing
space where the first and second screen structures face in
substantially opposite directions and where each of the display
screen structures includes first and second lateral edges; a first
seat located adjacent the first edge of the first display screen
structure and separated from a second edge of the second display
screen structure, the first seat juxtaposed to substantially face
the space between the first and second display screen structures;
and a second seat located adjacent a first edge of the second
display screen structure and separated from the second edge of the
first display screen structure, the second seat juxtaposed to
substantially face the space between the first and second display
screens, at least in part facing the first seat and so that the
conferencing space is at least in part between the first and second
seats.
18. The assembly of claim 17 wherein each of the first and second
seats includes an elongated arcuate couch that is concave toward
the conferencing space.
19. The assembly of claim 18 wherein each of the seats includes a
back support, the assembly further including first and second
counter members supported by the back supports of the first and
second seats, each of the counter members extending rearward from a
supporting back member.
20. The assembly of claim 19 wherein each of the counter members is
arcuate and extends substantially along a length dimension of an
adjacent back support.
21. The assembly of claim 17 wherein the first and second seats are
immediately adjacent the first and second display screen
structures.
22. The assembly of claim 17 wherein each of the first and second
seats includes a back support, the assembly further including first
and second arcuate wall members located adjacent the first and
second seats, respectively, where the wall members extend to
heights higher than the back supports.
23. The assembly of claim 22 wherein each of the arcuate wall
members has a height dimension between four and seven feet.
24. The assembly of claim 17 wherein each of the first and second
seats includes a back support, the assembly further including at
least a third display screen supported above and adjacent the first
seat back support.
25. The assembly of claim 24 further including at least a fourth
display screen supported above and adjacent the second sitting
arrangement back support.
26. The assembly of claim 17 wherein the first display screen
structure includes a first panel that is between four and seven
feet high wherein the first display is one of mounted in and
mounted on the first panel and wherein the second display screen
structure includes a second panel that is between four and seven
feet high wherein the second display is one of mounted in and
mounted on the second panel.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/005,595 which was filed on Dec. 6, 2004 and
which is titled "MULTI-USE CONFERENCING SPACE, TABLE ARRANGEMENT
AND DISPLAY CONFIGURATION" and is also related to provisional
patent application No. 60/744,320 which was filed on Apr. 5, 2006
and which is titled "WORK SPACE DIVING SYSTEM".
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates to improved space layouts,
table configurations and display configurations and more
specifically to space, table and display assemblies that are
configurable in many different ways to support conferencing
requirements of differently sized groups of people.
[0004] It is common knowledge that when people share a common goal
and work together toward that goal, the goal is typically achieved
faster and more efficiently than if those same people worked
separately toward the same goal. It is also common knowledge that,
in most cases, people within large groups have different sets of
strengths and that common goals can be achieved most efficiently
and effectively by identifying tasks required to achieve the goals
and assigning tasks to specific people within the larger group that
have specific strengths particularly suited for achieve those
tasks. Moreover, it is also generally accepted that there are
different stages involved in achieving any common goal and that the
extent of collaborative activities and communications at each stage
are different.
[0005] For instance, during a first stage of achieving a common
goal, at least one and in many cases several people within a large
group formulate their own vision of a goal to achieve by the larger
group. Second, after one or more people formulate their own vision
of a goal, the vision or visions are shared with people in the
larger group. People in the larger group critically discuss the
individual vision or visions so that all merits and problems are
brought to light. The people in the group settle on one common goal
that all group members can agree to work toward. After a common
goal is accepted by group members, the group identifies and agrees
upon separate tasks to be completed in order to achieve the common
goal and to identify subsets or teams (e.g., two, three, four,
etc.) of people from the larger group best suited to achieve the
tasks.
[0006] Third, after tasks have been assigned to smaller teams, the
smaller teams apply their particular skills to the assigned tasks
with an eye toward completing those tasks. Here, the larger process
may be repeated again with each team member separately taking on
different subsets of the team tasks.
[0007] Fourth, while the teams are working in parallel on their
assigned tasks, the larger group may periodically get together to
review progress by the teams, to modify the common goal or the
directions in which the different teams are headed, to change the
team members, etc.
[0008] Fifth, once all of the teams have completed their assigned
tasks, the entire group gets together again to achieve the common
goal by communicating how the tasks have been completed and the end
results.
[0009] Office designers have known for a long time that the
efficiency and effectiveness with which people perform specific
types of activities or tasks is closely related to the environments
in which the people perform those activities. For example, in the
past, it has generally been accepted that collaborative activities
between large groups of people such as sharing personal visions and
discussing and identifying a common group goal are best performed
in a large dedicated and confidential conference space or room away
from private personal spaces (e.g., private offices or partition
spaces). Where common spaces are dedicated to conferencing, people
can come together in a relatively neutral location that is not
specifically associated with any one group member or subset of
group members. Where a space is generally confidential, people
within the space are more likely to share unconventional ideas and
concepts which often result in new common goals and ways of
achieving those goals.
[0010] In addition, where large groups collaborate on ideas and
information, typical resources (i.e. environmental enhancements)
used to facilitate collaboration include a large table, surrounding
chairs and some type of visual aid. The table is provided so that
conference attendees have a convenient location to place reference
materials such as paper documents, laptops and/or notepads for
taking notes. In general it has been recognized that visual queues
are very important in communication. For instance, where a first
person is explaining a concept to a second person, by observing the
second persons facial expressions (e.g., a grimace, a surprised
look, etc.) and body movements (i.e., nodding of the head, shaking
of the head, etc.) during explanation, the first person can usually
gauge if the second person is understanding the concept, agrees or
disagrees with the concept, wants to interject a comment or another
related idea, etc. Similarly, where a third person is listening to
the explanation, if the third person can see the second persons
facial expressions and body movements, the third person also can
gauge the second persons reaction to the presentation and, if
necessary, interject helpful comments or, if the second person is
showing signs of disagreement with the first person, may feel more
comfortable questioning the first persons information or point of
view. For this reason, many conference tables are configured so
that people there around have at least some direct line of sight to
other people at the table (i.e., the table top may be round, oval,
etc.) and hence can visually gauge how ideas are being accepted, if
ideas are being understood and if other people want to interject
related ideas and comments.
[0011] Visual aids may include, for instance, a large pad of paper
mounted to an easel, a large whiteboard, a large television, a
large flat panel electronic display screen, a screen and projector,
etc. Where visual aids are used, the visual aid is usually located
within the conference space at a commanding or focal location
within the space so that when a conference attendee uses the aid,
others at the conference have a view of the information being
presented. For instance, in known configurations where an
electronic display is employed, the display is space away from and
to one side of the conference table and is mounted to a wall that
at least in part defines the conference space. Here, to help all
conference attendees at a table to view the display screen, the
screen is typically mounted at a height well above (e.g., the lower
screen edge is at least a foot) the table top height.
[0012] As another example, it has generally been accepted that
smaller group activities such as working on tasks assigned to
smaller teams of people are best performed in smaller confidential
spaces or rooms that include tables, chairs and, in many cases,
visual aids (e.g., a pad of paper, a white board, an electronic
display screen, etc.). Tables in these spaces are usually smaller
than the tables provided in the larger conference spaces so that
team members are more intimately located for idea sharing and
collaboration. Again, confidential space fosters sharing of
unconventional ideas and concepts and often results in innovative
ways to complete tasks effectively and efficiently.
[0013] As one other example, it has generally been accepted that
individuals need to work separately at some times in order to help
achieve group goals and that the best environment for performing
individual work is a private office or partition space where a
person has access to a personal computer or the like. For instance,
when identifying a personal vision for a group or when working on
details required to complete larger tasks or achieve common goals,
individuals often work best in private dedicated personal
spaces.
[0014] To best accommodate all types of activities required to
achieve group goals, most offices are currently configured to
include at least three different types of space including large
conference spaces, relatively smaller conference spaces and
personal private type spaces (e.g., offices) where each of the
spaces includes a table or desk suitable for the activities likely
to be performed in the space, a chair or chairs and other resources
such as a visual aids, computers, etc. Here, the theory is that
groups of people are fluid between the different spaces, coming
together in the conference spaces to discuss and define goals and
tasks and to perform collaborative tasks and separating into the
private spaces to complete detail type activities.
[0015] While offices that are physically divided into three
different types of space are common and clearly have some
advantages related to facilitating collaborative work, it is
believed that these types of spaces also have several important
shortcomings. First, despite efforts to arrange tables, chairs and
visual aids within large conference rooms in ways that foster
communication between attendees, often the end result is a
configuration that adversely affects communication. For instance,
where an electronic display is mounted to a wall at one end of a
large conference table, many attendees at the table have to rotate
their chairs or, in some cases, have to completely turn their
chairs around to view information presented via the aid. In
addition, in some cases, attendees may have to move their chairs
away from the edge of the conference table in order to view
information presented via the display without obstructing other
attendee views. Here, where all attendees face generally in one
direction toward the display screen, attendees cannot easily make
eye contact with, or observe other visual queues from, other
attendees and hence cannot determine if concepts are being
understood, if other attendees want to interject comments or agree
or disagree with information presented. Clearly lack of visual
queues reduces communication effectiveness appreciably.
[0016] As another instance, where attendees move to a focal or
commanding location within a conference space such as adjacent a
display screen mounted on a conference space wall to present
information, the dynamic within the space changes. To this end,
when one attendee moves to a commanding location within a space,
the dynamic changes from one of collaboration between peers to
presentation by a single attendee that temporarily assumes the
mantle of group leader. It is believed that when one group member
assumes a commanding location within a space to present
information, other conference attendees tend to become less
critical of the information, ideas and concept presented and hence
interchange of ideas is stifled.
[0017] As still one other instance, even where a person presenting
information via a wall mounted display or the like remains seated
at a conference table during the presentation, at least some of the
people at the table still have to physically rotate their chairs
toward the display screen or divert their field of view away from
the presenter and toward the screen to view presented information.
When chairs are rotated away from a presenter or fields of view are
diverted from the presenter, the presenter loses the ability to
sense visual queues.
[0018] Second, while movement between large group, small team and
individual activities and spaces that facilitate those activities
is, in theory, supposed to be fluid, in reality, such movement is
usually interrupted and disjointed. In this regard, while people in
large groups often become energized when common goals and tasks for
achieving those goals are identified and when tasks are initially
assigned to team members, after leaving a conference, attendees
often lose focus, start to question the common goals or tasks
assigned to achieve the goals and/or turn their attention to other
activities unrelated to the common goals and tasks. In short
momentum is lost when the large group breaks up to pursue assigned
tasks.
[0019] Third, while electronic display screens are advantageous for
sharing information among groups and teams of people, currently
such displays are relatively expensive and are usually dedicated to
single conference spaces. For this reason, while large electronic
displays may be provided in large conference spaces for use by
large groups where the cost associated therewith is justifiable, in
many cases such displays are not provided in smaller conference
spaces. Instead, in smaller spaces, less expensive visual aids such
as whiteboards or large paper pads are often provided to facilitate
collaboration.
[0020] Where large displays (e.g., televisions or the like) have
been provided on wheeled carts to enable movement between two or
more different conference spaces, despite being moveable, in many
cases these types of displays are positioned at one location in one
space and are not moved among spaces due to their size, linkage
requirements to computers, etc., to drive the displays and so
on.
[0021] Fourth, many people find it difficult to share their ideas
and concepts in large groups and, in particular, in groups where
other group members will likely have different and divergent ideas
and where some group members may have relatively strong
personalities. In fact, there are at least some studies that
suggests that the best collaborative activities take place in pairs
(i.e., in groups of two) as most people can develop a sense of
trust with one person more quickly than with larger groups of
people. Therefore, when goals, tasks and personal skills are
discussed in large group conferences, often many people that have
different and valuable views, suggestions and comments do not
express themselves and goals and tasks are set without the benefit
thereof and, in many cases, without complete acceptance by all
group members. While iterative large group and small team
conferences may minimize the effects of this problem, in many cases
the lack of fluidity between large and small groups and associated
spaces causes conference attendees to forgo such solutions and
instead the group ploughs ahead without the benefit of all ideas
being expressed and without complete buy in to group goals.
[0022] Fifth, providing many different spaces that are each
dedicated to one type of use (e.g., large conferencing, small team
conferencing or individual private use) is relatively expensive and
often results in spaces that are relatively underutilized. For
instance, in many cases, while a company may periodically need a
large conference space to share information, in many cases such
large conference spaces will go unused during more than 90% of
normal business hours.
[0023] Sixth, requiring people to separate and come together
multiple times and to break the flow of activities between
different spaces breaks trains of thought and generally slows
momentum toward achieving goals. Where goals are slowly achieved
businesses often fail.
[0024] One solution to at least some of the problems discussed
above has been to provide a plurality of relatively small table
assemblies in a large conference space where the table assemblies
can be brought together to form a large conference table or can be
separated to facilitate smaller team sized conferencing break out
sessions. In these cases the tables may be mounted on casters or
the like to facilitate easy rearrangement of the assemblies for
whatever purpose they are required. In addition, in these cases
often some type of linking mechanism is provided to lock adjacent
table tops together to form a large table arrangement when desired
and some type of brake mechanism is provided on the casters so that
the separate table tops do not move about with respect to each
other. The brake mechanism is also used to lock the separate table
assemblies in positions after the table tops are separated to
facilitate break out sessions. Here, a single space can be used
generally to either facilitate a large conference about a single
table arrangement including the smaller tables or to facilitate two
or more smaller conferences by physically separating the table
assemblies.
[0025] In addition, multiple tables can be used to maintain
fluidity of a series of large and small conferences within a single
space so that greater progress toward defining goals and completing
tasks can be achieved in a shorter amount of time. For instance,
with small tables together to form a large conference table top
arrangement, a large conference can be conducted. Thereafter, the
tables can be separated and smaller breakout sessions can be
conducted followed by bringing the tables back together to conduct
yet another large conference session to further share small group
information.
[0026] Unfortunately, while multi-table assemblies deal with some
of the problems discussed above, such assemblies do not address
other problems. For instance, multiple table assemblies do not
address the issues related to location of large display screens or
other visual aids that require conference attendees to physically
turn away from other attendees at a conference in order to view
presented information or the fact that attendees that use the
visual aids are located in commanding positions that reduce
criticism and comments from other attendees.
[0027] As another instance, multiple table assemblies do not
address issues related to providing electronic displays for each of
a plurality of smaller conference table configurations when
breakout sessions occur. Indeed, where only a single electronic
display is provided in a large conference space, when breakout
sessions occur, the single display can only be used by members of
one of the breakout sessions at a time.
[0028] As still one other instance, while separate table assemblies
can be moved to different locations within a large conference space
to facilitate breakout sessions, such physical distance between
tables without visual barriers of any type (e.g., vertical walls of
partition systems of some type) often is insufficient to give
people the feeling of being in a space that is confidential or at
least semi-confidential with respect to the other areas of the
larger space. As in the case of sharing ideas in large groups, many
people have difficulty sharing ideas in spaces where
confidentiality is suspect.
[0029] In addition, even where separate table assemblies are
provided to facilitate both large conferences and small breakout
sessions, it is believed that several factors discourage using the
tables separately to facilitate multiple breakout sessions. First,
the lack of relatively expensive electronic display screens for use
with each separate table assembly discourage breakout sessions
using the separate tables. Second, problems associated with suspect
confidentiality have discouraged separation of the table assemblies
to facilitate break out sessions. Third, it is believed that any
work required to rearrange tables about a conference room including
disconnecting linking mechanisms between tables, unlocking caster
brake mechanisms, etc., operates as a strong impediment to
rearranging those tables. The impediment is exacerbated where
additional tasks (e.g., realigning tables, relocking brake
mechanisms and reconnecting linking mechanisms, etc.) have to be
completed to reconfigure the tables in the original large table
arrangement. The impediment is still further exacerbated where the
locking and unlocking and brake mechanisms are not completely
intuitive to users as many users will not routinely use such
features or where the activities require users to crawl under table
tops to perform the locking and linking activities.
[0030] In cases where the tasks associated with reconfiguring table
assemblies is are not understood or are considered to burdensome,
after a large conference around a multiple table assembly
arrangement, when small break out sessions are to occur, instead of
breaking up the table arrangement, conference attendees simply
leave the conferencing space and conduct smaller team meetings in
private offices or other smaller conference spaces (i.e., in other
rooms dedicated to conferencing). Thus, despite added costs
associated with providing a versatile table configuration, the
table configuration is not used for its intended purpose.
[0031] One other solution to some of the problems discussed above
is to provide a lap top to each conference attendee and to present
information to the attendees via lap top display screens. Here,
attendees needn't turn away from a conference table to view
information being presented and each attendee has an unobstructed
view of presented information. In addition, when the attendees
separate to facilitate smaller breakout sessions, each attendee has
her own laptop display screen for collaborating with team
members.
[0032] One problem with sharing conference information via laptops
is that attendees focus on the information on their laptops instead
of making visual contact with the other attendees. In addition,
while information is being presented by one attendee, often other
attendees will want to use their laptops to locate other
information that they want to share with the other attendees. Where
presentation information is provided via laptops, non-presenting
attendees cannot use their laptops for other purposes.
[0033] Thus, it would be advantageous to have a new conference
configuration wherein all conference attendees have a clear and
generally unobstructed view of information being presented via
visual aids and particularly via display screens. In addition, it
would be advantageous to have a conferencing configuration where
table sections can easily be arranged in different orientations to
accommodate large or small groups of attendees. Moreover, it would
be advantageous to have a conference configuration wherein display
screens could be used in multiple positions within the conference
space and, in at least some cases, outside the conference space, to
share information where the supporting structure that facilitates
movement of the displays enables extremely simple and intuitive
movement.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0034] It has been recognized that at least two displays can be
placed at generally opposite edges of a conference table top and
used by conference attendees about the top to share information in
ways that are particularly advantageous. To this end, with displays
at generally opposite table top edges and with the same information
presented on each display, conference attendees need not turn away
from the conference table in general to observe information
presented via at least one of the displays. Instead, the attendees
need only look across a part of the table to observe the presented
information.
[0035] It has also been recognized that with edge positioned
display screens, attendees can view other attendees directly to
identify visual queues from the other attendees and need only
divert their field of view minimally to see presented information
on one of the edge positioned screens. Moreover, an information
presenter can remain seated at a conference table while presenting
information and hence a feeling of peer to peer communication and
collaboration can be maintained regardless of which attendee is
presenting. Furthermore, a presenting attendee can refer to any of
the edge positioned display screens to when communicating with
other attendees which allows the presenter to generally face any
attendee that the presenter is addressing while still generally
facing at least one of the screens.
[0036] In addition, it has been recognized that a table assembly
can be mounted at least in part to a rail that facilitates table
splitting into two or more sections to facilitate breakout
sessions. Here, by mounting the table sections to a rail where the
sections slide apart along the rail, a particularly intuitive split
table configuration can be formed that is easy and simple to use.
Here, in at least some cases, a separate display screen can be
positioned adjacent at least one edge of each table section so that
when the sections are separated, a separate one of the displays is
useable with a separate one of the sections to facilitate breakout
session information sharing.
[0037] Consistent with the above, at least some embodiments of the
invention include a conferencing assembly, the assembly comprising
a support and at least one table top member forming a substantially
flat top surface, the at least one top member supported by the
support with the flat surface substantially horizontal, the at
least one top member forming first and second corners, a first edge
extending between the first and second corners and a second edge
extending between the first and second corners, the first edge
including at least one substantially straight section proximate the
first corner and at least one curved section that bows convexly
outward generally away from the second edge, the second edge
including at least one curved section that bows convexly outward
generally away from the first edge. Here, the second edge may also
includes at least one substantially straight section. In some cases
the substantially straight section of the second edge is proximate
the second corner.
[0038] In some cases the at least one top member includes at least
first and second top members that form the first and second edges.
In some cases the first and second top members form the first and
second edges, respectively. In some cases the first and second
edges are external edges and wherein the first top member forms an
internal edge opposite the external edge of the first top member
that extends between the first and second corners and the second
top member forms an internal edge opposite the external edge of the
second top member that extends between the first and second
corners. In addition, in some cases the internal edges of the first
and second top members are substantially straight and wherein the
internal edge of the first top member is parallel to the internal
edge of the second top member. Moreover, in some cases the support
facilitates movement of at least one of the first and second top
members with respect to the other of the first and second top
member. Here, the support may include at least one rail and the at
least one of the first and second top members that is supported to
move with respect to the other of the first and second top members
may be mounted to the rail for sliding movement there along.
Moreover, in some embodiments each of the first and second top
members is mounted to the at least one rail for sliding movement
there along. Furthermore, each of the first and second top members
may be mounted to the rail for movement along a trajectory that is
substantially parallel to the internal edges of the first and
second top members.
[0039] In some cases the first and second top members are
positionable along the rail in at least two juxtapositions
including a combined orientation wherein the internal edges of the
first and second top members are adjacent along substantially their
entire length dimensions and a spaced orientation wherein at least
a section of the internal edge of the first top member is spaced
from at least a section of the internal edge of the second top
member. In addition, in some cases each of the first and second top
members slides along the rail along a trajectory that is parallel
to the internal edge of the top member. In some cases the straight
section of the first edge is closer to the second corner when the
first and second top members are in the spaced orientation than
when the first and second top members are in the combined
orientation.
[0040] In some cases the straight section of the first edge is
closer to the second corner when the first and second top members
are in the combined orientation than when the first and second top
members are in the spaced orientation. Here, in some cases the
assembly further includes at least one display screen wherein the
screen is positioned along the at least one substantially straight
section of the first edge with the screen generally facing in the
direction of the second edge. In addition, in some cases the
display screen includes a lower edge and wherein the lower edge is
proximate the straight section of the first edge. In some cases the
display screen is at least eighteen inches high by twenty-four
inches wide. In addition, in some cases the display screen is
mounted to the straight section of the first edge.
[0041] In other cases the support is a first support and wherein
the assembly further includes a second support that independently
supports the display screen adjacent the first edge. Here the
second support may include wheels for transporting the display
screen. In some cases the second support includes a rail and an arm
assembly, the arm assembly mounting the screen to the rail for
movement there along. In some cases the second edge includes at
least one substantially straight section proximate the second edge
and the display screen is a first display screen and wherein the
assembly further includes at least a second display screen, the
second display screen positioned along the straight section of the
second edge with the second screen generally facing in the
direction of the first edge.
[0042] In a particularly advantageous configuration the first and
second screens face in opposite directions. Here the first and
second display screens may oppose each other.
[0043] In some cases the assembly further includes at least first
and second display screens positioned along the straight sections
of the first and second edges, respectively. In some cases the
first and second display screens generally face the second and
first edges, respectively.
[0044] At least some embodiments of the invention also include a
conferencing assembly comprising a support rail having a length
dimension, a first table top member forming a substantially flat
top surface and including an internal edge that extends between
first and second corners and an external edge that extends between
the first and second corners, the first table top supported by the
rail on a first side of the rail and with the internal edge
proximate the rail for sliding movement along a trajectory parallel
to the length dimension and a second table top member forming a
substantially flat top surface and including an internal edge that
extends between first and second corners and an external edge that
extends between the first and second corners, the second table top
supported by the rail on a second side of the rail with internal
edge of the second top member proximate the rail.
[0045] Here, the second top member may be supported by the rail for
sliding movement along a trajectory parallel to the length
dimension of the rail. In some cases the assembly further includes
at least a first display screen positioned adjacent the external
edge of the first table top. In addition, in some cases the
assembly further includes at least a second display screen
positioned adjacent the external edge of the second table top.
[0046] Moreover, at least some embodiments include a conferencing
assembly comprising a support, at least one table top member
forming a substantially flat top surface, the at least one top
member supported by the support with the flat surface substantially
horizontal, the at least one top member including at least first
and second substantially straight edge sections where the second
edge section forms an angle with respect to the first edge section
of less than substantially sixty degrees and at least first and
second display screens positioned adjacent and substantially
parallel to the first and second edge sections, respectively, each
of the first and second display screens facing across at least a
portion of the top surface of the top member.
[0047] Moreover, some embodiments include a conferencing assembly
comprising a support, at least one table top member forming a
substantially flat top surface, the at least one top member
supported by the support with the flat surface substantially
horizontal, the at least one top member including at least first
and second generally oppositely facing edge sections and at least
first and second display screens including first and second front
surfaces positioned proximate the first and second edge sections,
respectively, each of the first and second display screens facing
across at least a portion of the top surface of the top member, the
first display screen facing in a first direction and the second
display screen facing in a second direction wherein the second
direction is generally opposite the first direction.
[0048] In some cases each of the first and second screens includes
a lower edge and wherein the lower edges of the first and second
screens are adjacent the first and second edge sections. In some
cases the lower edges of the first and second screens are
immediately adjacent the first and second edge sections. In some
cases the at least one top member includes at least first and
second top members, the first top member forms the first edge and
the second top member forms the second edge and wherein the support
supports at least the first top member for movement with respect to
the second top member. In some cases the support includes a rail
and wherein each of the first and second top members are mounted to
the rail for sliding motion along a rail length dimension.
[0049] At least some embodiments include a conferencing assembly
comprising a support, at least one table top member forming a
substantially flat top surface, the at least one top member
supported by the support with the flat surface substantially
horizontal, the at least one top member including at least first
and second generally oppositely facing edge sections, at least
first and second rail members positioned above and substantially
parallel to the table top surface, the at least first and second
rail members including distal ends that extend outward past the
first and second edge sections of the table top, respectively, at
least first and second display screens mounted for movement along
the first and second rail members, respectively, each of the
display screens supportable by one of the rail members in a first
use position wherein the first and second display screens are at
first locations along the first and second rail members and face in
substantially opposite directions across the table top,
respectively, and at least a second position wherein the first and
second display screens are located at second locations along the
first and second rail members, respectively.
[0050] Furthermore, some embodiments include a display assembly for
use in at least first and second different spaces, the assembly
comprising at least one wall that at least in part divides first
and second spaces, the wall forming an opening, a flat panel
display including a front viewing surface and a mount at least in
part located within the opening, the mount supporting the flat
panel display for movement between at least a first position
wherein the front viewing surface is viewable within the first
space and a second position wherein the display is viewable within
the second space.
[0051] In some cases the mount includes at least one rail and
wherein the display is supported by the at least one rail for
sliding motion between the first and second spaces. In some cases
the display is supported by the at least one rail for sliding
motion between the first and second positions. In some cases the
display is supported by a pivot assembly for rotational motion
about a pivot axis wherein the pivot assembly is supported by the
rail. In some cases the pivot axis is vertical. In some cases the
rail is a first rail and the mount further includes a second rail
spaced below and substantially parallel to the first rail and
wherein the display is supported by the first and second rails for
sliding motion between the first and second spaces. In some cases
the rail extends from the first space to the second space through
the opening. In some cases the mount includes a pivot assembly
mounted within the opening and wherein the display is supported by
the pivot assembly for rotational motion between the first and
second positions. In some cases at least a portion of the display
is located within the opening when the display is in the first
position and at least a portion of the display is located within
the opening when the display is in the second position. In some
cases the at least one wall includes oppositely facing first and
second wall surfaces and wherein the front viewing surface is
substantially parallel to the first and second wall surfaces when
the display is in the first and second positions, respectively. In
some cases the pivot assembly includes a door assembly including a
door surface and wherein the display is mounted to the door
surface.
[0052] Some embodiments include a conferencing configuration
facilitating variable use of space, the configuration comprising a
space wall structure including at least a first space wall that
forms an opening between first and second spaces and that includes
a first space wall surface adjacent the opening, a flat display
panel including a front viewing surface and an oppositely facing
rear surface and a mount supported by the first space wall surface,
the mount supporting the flat panel display for movement between at
least a first position wherein the rear surface is proximate the
first primary wall surface and the front viewing surface is visible
within the first space and a second position wherein the front
surface faces and is viewable in the second space.
[0053] In addition, at least some embodiments include a
conferencing configuration facilitating variable use of space, the
configuration comprising a space wall structure defining a primary
space, the space wall structure including at least a first space
wall that at least in part forms an opening, a first alcove wall
structure forming a first alcove space within the at least one
opening, at least one rail supported above the primary space, the
at least one rail including first and second ends, the first end
proximate the first alcove space and a first flat panel display
including a front viewing surface, the display linked to the rail
for movement between a first position within the primary space with
the front viewing surface visible within the primary space and a
second position wherein the display is proximate and viewable
within the first alcove space.
[0054] These and other objects, advantages and aspects of the
invention will become apparent from the following description. In
the description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings
which form a part hereof, and in which there is shown a preferred
embodiment of the invention. Such embodiment does not necessarily
represent the full scope of the invention and reference is made
therefore, to the claims herein for interpreting the scope of the
invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0055] FIG. 1 is a is a top plan view showing one conference
configuration according to at least some aspects of the present
invention;
[0056] FIG. 2 is a view of one end of the configuration illustrated
in FIG. 1;
[0057] FIG. 3 is a view of a second end of the configuration
illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0058] FIG. 4 is a side plan view of one end of the table and one
of the displays illustrated in FIG. 1;
[0059] FIG. 5 is a similar to FIG. 1, albeit illustrating another
conference configuration;
[0060] FIG. 6 is a similar to FIG. 1, albeit illustrating another
conference configuration;
[0061] FIG. 7 is a similar to FIG. 1, albeit illustrating a
conference configuration including three display screens;
[0062] FIG. 8 is a similar to FIG. 1, albeit illustrating a
conference configuration including four display screens;
[0063] FIG. 9 is a perspective view a flat panel display mounted on
a cart that can be moved toward and away from the edge of a table
top;
[0064] FIG. 10 is a side elevational view illustrating one
additional conference configuration according to at least some
aspects of the present invention;
[0065] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of another conference
configuration according to at least some aspects of the present
invention;
[0066] FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of the configuration of
FIG. 11;
[0067] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view similar to FIG. 12,
albeit where displays are in different positions;
[0068] FIG. 14 is a partial cross-sectional view taken along the
line 14-14 in FIG. 11;
[0069] FIG. 15 is a top plan view of another conference
configuration according to at least some aspects of the present
invention;
[0070] FIG. 16 is similar to FIG. 15, albeit illustrating displays
and chairs in different orientations with respect to other
configuration components;
[0071] FIG. 16A is similar to FIG. 16, albeit illustrating displays
and chairs in another orientation;
[0072] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 17-17
in FIG. 15, albeit showing a single flat panel display mounted to a
rail member;
[0073] FIG. 18 is a top plan view of yet another conference
configuration according to at least some aspects of the present
invention;
[0074] FIG. 19 is similar to FIG. 18, albeit illustrating displays
in different positions with respect to rail members;
[0075] FIG. 20 is a top plan view of yet another inventive
conference configuration;
[0076] FIG. 21 is a top plan view of another inventive conference
configuration;
[0077] FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of the configuration
illustrated in FIG. 21;
[0078] FIG. 23 is a top plan view of one more conference
configuration according to at least some aspects of the present
invention;
[0079] FIG. 24 is a top plan view of another inventive conference
configuration according to at least some aspects of the present
invention;
[0080] FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the configuration
illustrated in FIG. 24 and taken along the line 25-25;
[0081] FIG. 26 is a top plan view of another inventive conference
configuration including a split and sliding table top;
[0082] FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of the configuration
shown in FIG. 26;
[0083] FIG. 28 is an end elevational view of the configuration
shown in FIG. 26;
[0084] FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 29-29
in FIG. 26;
[0085] FIG. 30 is a top plan view of the configuration in FIG. 26,
albeit with table top sections in a separated orientation;
[0086] FIG. 31 is similar to FIG. 30, albeit with the table tops in
a different separated orientation;
[0087] FIG. 32 is a top plan view of another split table top
conference configuration;
[0088] FIG. 33 is a top plan view of the configuration of FIG. 32,
albeit with the table sections in a split orientation;
[0089] FIG. 34 is a top plan view of a conference configuration
wherein a split table is positioned within a conference room so
that the table and wall structure of the conference room cooperate
to provide a additional synergy;
[0090] FIG. 35 is similar to FIG. 34, albeit where table top
members are in a split configuration;
[0091] FIG. 36 is a top plan view of another split table
configuration;
[0092] FIG. 37 is similar to FIG. 36, albeit where the table
sections have been slid into a split configuration;
[0093] FIG. 38 is a top plan view of another inventive conference
configuration;
[0094] FIG. 39 is a side elevational view of one of the table
assemblies and a display screen of FIG. 38;
[0095] FIG. 40 is similar to FIG. 38, albeit where the table
assemblies have been separated to facilitate break-out
sessions;
[0096] FIG. 41 is a top plan view of another inventive conference
configuration;
[0097] FIG. 42 is a top plan view similar to FIG. 41, albeit where
the conference configuration table assemblies have been separated
to facilitate break-out sessions;
[0098] FIG. 43 is a front perspective view taken along the line
43-43 in FIG. 20;
[0099] FIG. 44 is similar to FIG. 43, albeit wherein one of two
wall mounted flat panel displays has been moved into a second
position usable within an alcove;
[0100] FIG. 45 is a perspective view showing a flat panel display
mounted to a rail assembly where the flat panel display is usable
in either first or second spaces separated by a wall;
[0101] FIG. 46 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 46-46
of FIG. 45;
[0102] FIG. 47 is a perspective view showing a flat panel display
mounted to a door where the door separates first and second
spaces;
[0103] FIG. 48 shows the configuration of FIG. 47, albeit where the
door is closed and the display is usable within one of the two
spaces;
[0104] FIG. 49 is a perspective view showing a flat panel display
mounted within an opening in a wall;
[0105] FIG. 50 is similar to FIG. 49, albeit where the display has
been rotated within the opening in the wall;
[0106] FIG. 51 is similar to FIG. 49, albeit where the display has
been rotated through 180.degree. from an original position in FIG.
49 so that the display is again flush with the wall in which the
display is mounted; and
[0107] FIG. 52 is a partial view showing a mounting structure for
mounting the display of FIG. 49 within a frame received in the wall
opening.
[0108] FIG. 53 is a perspective view of an open concept meeting
room in accordance with the present invention;
[0109] FIG. 54 is a plan view of the open concept meeting room of
FIG. 53;
[0110] FIG. 55a is a cross-sectional view of the wall assembly of
FIGS. 53 and 54;
[0111] FIG. 55b is a cross-sectional view of a wall designed for
use in a variety of workspace areas;
[0112] FIG. 56 is a cross-sectional view of a wall including a
lighting or display device;
[0113] FIG. 57 is a bottom plan view of the open concept meeting
room of FIG. 55a;
[0114] FIG. 58 is a close-up view of a seam formed between walls
assembled into the open concept meeting room of FIG. 54;
[0115] FIG. 59 is a plan view of a plurality of walls arranged into
another open concept meeting room;
[0116] FIG. 60 is a plan view of a plurality of walls arranged into
another open concept meeting room;
[0117] FIG. 61 is a front elevational view of a single wall
designed to be incorporated into traditional wall systems; and
[0118] FIG. 62 is a cross-sectional view of a composite
construction element designed for use in the wall systems of FIGS.
53-61;
[0119] FIG. 63 is a perspective view of a conferencing system
according to another aspect of the present invention;
[0120] FIG. 64 is a top plan view of the system of FIG. 63;
[0121] FIG. 65 is a perspective view similar to that shown in FIG.
63, albeit of another exemplary conferencing system;
[0122] FIG. 66 is a top plan view similar to the view of FIG. 64,
albeit showing another exemplary conferencing system;
[0123] FIG. 67 is a perspective view of a conferencing system,
according to one additional inventive aspect;
[0124] FIG. 68 is a side plan view in part in phantom of the system
of FIG. 67;
[0125] FIG. 69 is similar to FIG. 68, albeit showing components of
the system in a second position;
[0126] FIG. 70 is a front plan view of the system of FIG. 67;
[0127] FIG. 71 is front plan view of the system of FIG. 67, albeit
where components are in the positions shown in FIG. 69;
[0128] FIG. 72 is similar to FIG. 67, albeit showing another
inventive embodiment;
[0129] FIG. 73 is similar to FIG. 70, albeit showing a front plan
view of the system of FIG. 72;
[0130] FIG. 74 is a view similar to that shown in FIG. 67, albeit
showing one additional inventive embodiment;
[0131] FIG. 75 is a front plan view of the system shown in FIG.
74;
[0132] FIG. 76 is a side plan view, in part in phantom, of the
system shown in FIG. 74 with a closure subassembly in a first
position;
[0133] FIG. 77 is similar to FIG. 76 albeit showing the closure
subassembly in an intermediate position;
[0134] FIG. 78 is similar to FIG. 76, albeit showing the closure
subassembly in a second position;
[0135] FIG. 79 is similar to FIG. 67, albeit showing another
inventive system;
[0136] FIG. 80 is similar to FIG. 67, albeit showing yet another
system;
[0137] FIG. 81 is similar to FIG. 67, albeit showing yet another
inventive system;
[0138] FIG. 82 is similar to FIG. 81, albeit showing yet one other
inventive system;
[0139] FIG. 83 is similar to FIG. 67, albeit showing another
inventive system;
[0140] FIG. 84 is similar to FIG. 69, albeit showing additional
inventive embodiments;
[0141] FIG. 85 is similar to FIG. 68, albeit showing the
embodiments of FIG. 84 with closure subassemblies in storage
positions;
[0142] FIG. 86 is a top plan view of a conferencing system like the
system shown in FIG. 64, albeit with display screens positioned at
different angles.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0143] A. Multi-Use Conferencing Space, Table Arrangement And
Display Configuration Description
[0144] One or more specific embodiments of the present invention
will be described below. It should be appreciated that in the
development of any such actual implementation, as in any
engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific
decisions must be made to achieve the developers' specific goals,
such as compliance with system-related and business related
constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another.
Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort
might be complex and time consuming, but would nevertheless be a
routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for
those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.
[0145] Referring now to the drawings wherein like reference
numerals correspond to similar elements throughout the several
views and, more specifically, referring FIGS. 1 through 4, a first
embodiment of the present invention will be described in the
context of an exemplary conferencing configuration 10 including a
conference table assembly 11, a plurality of chairs, four of which
are identified by numerals 14, 16, 18 and 19 and two flat panel
video display assemblies identified by numerals 20a and 20b.
[0146] In this first exemplary embodiment display assemblies 20a
and 20b are identical and therefore, in the interest of simplifying
this explanation, only certain aspects of display assembly 20a will
be described here in any detail. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4,
display assemble 20a includes a flat panel housing structure 32 and
a display screen 34 mounted within the housing structure 32.
Display assembly 20a may be hooked up to any type of driving system
including one or more computers, a television or cable receiver,
video conferencing equipment, etc. Hereinafter, unless indicated
otherwise, it will be assumed that conference attendees use laptop
computers 13, 15, etc., to control information presented via
displays 20a and 20b.
[0147] As shown in FIG. 2, display screen 34 has a width dimension
W and a height dimension H. Although various widths and heights are
contemplated, in at least some embodiments of the present invention
screen 34 will have a width W of at least two feet and a height H
of at least two feet. In particularly advantageous embodiments,
screen 34 has a width W of at least three feet and a height H of at
least three feet. Hereinafter display assembly 20a and 20b are
referred to either as assemblies 20a and 20b or simply as displays
20a and 20b.
[0148] As best illustrated in FIG. 1, table assembly 11 includes a
table top member 12 that has a generally oblong leaf shape that
forms first and second corners 22 and 24 at opposite ends and
includes first and second edges 26 and 28 that extend between the
first and second corners 22 and 24, respectively. First edge 26
includes a substantially straight section 26a proximate first
corner 22 and a curved section 26b that extends from the straight
section 26a to second corner 24, the curved section 26a bowing
convexly outward generally away from second edge 28. Similarly,
second edge 28 includes a substantially straight section 28a
proximate second corner 24 and a curved section 28b that extends
from the straight section 28a to the first corner 22 and that bows
convexly outward generally away from first edge 26. In the
illustrated embodiment the length dimensions of straight edge
sections 26a and 28a are identical and are substantially equal to
the width dimension W (see again FIG. 2) of display screen 34.
[0149] Although not illustrated, in addition to top member 12,
table assembly 11 also includes some type of supporting structure
therebelow to support top member 12 at a normal table top height
suitable for use by conference attendees seated about the assembly
22 in chairs 14, 16, 18, etc. For instance, where the chairs are a
normal sitting height, top member 12 may be between twenty-eight
and thirty-one inches high. As another instance, where the chairs
are of a stool height, top member 12 may be between thirty-five and
forty-four inches high, depending on the stool height. The
supporting structure below top member 12 may include several legs,
pedestals, castered pedestals, etc.
[0150] Referring still to FIGS. 1 through 4, according to the first
embodiment of the present invention, displays 20a and 20b are
positioned adjacent straight edge sections 26a and 28a so that the
display screens 34 face in substantially opposite directions but
are offset from each other. Importantly, displays 20a and 20b are
positioned directly next to edge sections 26a and 28a,
respectively, and such that the lower edges of the display screens
34 reside at or just above (e.g., within 8 inches of) the top
surface of table top member 12 (see specifically FIGS. 2, 3 and
4).
[0151] Referring to FIG. 4, in at least some embodiments of the
present invention, a display support assembly 40 is provided that
includes a bracket 42 and a plurality of bolts 44 and 46. Bracket
42 includes a horizontal member 48 and channel forming structure
including two ribs or extensions 50 and 52 that extend to the same
side of member 48 and substantially perpendicular thereto. Ribs 50
and 52 are shaped and dimensioned to form a channel 51 therebetween
that fittingly receives a bottom end of display 20a. Horizontal
member 48 forms a plurality of apertures that pass therethrough.
Similarly, rib 50 forms a plurality of apertures (not illustrated)
that pass therethrough.
[0152] To mount bracket 40 to table top 12, screws 46 are placed
through the apertures formed by horizontal member 48 and are
received in an undersurface 56 of table top member 12 such that rib
52 is adjacent straight edge section 26a and so that channel 51
formed by ribs 50 and 52 opens upwardly. To mount display 20a to
bracket 40, display 20a is positioned such that the lower end
thereof is received in the channel formed by ribs 50 and 52.
Thereafter, bolts or screws 44 are placed through the apertures
formed by rib 50 and extend into the rear surface of the bottom
portion of display 20a to rigidly hold display 20a with respect to
bracket 42.
[0153] Referring still to FIGS. 1 through 4, after displays 20a and
20b have been mounted proximate straight edge sections 26a and 28a,
chairs 14, 16, 18, etc., are placed around the curved edge sections
26b and 28b. During conferencing activity, with attendees
positioned at each one of the chairs about table top member 12, it
is contemplated that when any one of the attendees is presenting
information, the information being presented can be presented on
both displays 20a and 20b at opposite ends of table 12. Here,
because the information is displayed in a relatively large format
and it is presented at the edge of the table (e.g., 26a or 26b),
all the attendees in chairs 14, 16, 18, etc., have a clear and
generally unobstructed view of information on at least one and, in
may cases, both of displays 20a and 20b. For example, referring to
FIGS. 1 through 3, for an attendee sitting in chair 14, the
attendee can direct her sight along the direction indicated by
field of view 60 to view information on display 20a or, in the
alternative, can direct her sight along the field of view indicated
by numeral 62 to view information presented via display 20b.
[0154] In addition, because of the orientation of displays 20a and
20b with respect to the seats around table 12, as conference
attendees turn their chairs in various directions to angle toward
other attendees during conversations, regardless of the direction
in which the attendees are facing, the attendees still have a
relatively good view of information being presented on at least one
of displays 20a and 20b. For example, assume that the attendee in
chair 16 is presenting information via displays 20a and 20b while
having a conversation with the attendee in chair 14. Here, while
the attendee in chair 14 directs her sight along the field of view
indicated by numeral 64 when making eye contact with the presenting
attendee in chair 16, the attendee in chair 14 need only slightly
change her field of view as indicated by field of view 60 to view
information being presented on display 20a. Similarly, referring
still to FIG. 1, when the attendee in chair 18 is presenting
information via displays 20a and 20b and is having a conversation
with the attendee in chair 14, the attendee in chair 14 can direct
her field of view along the direction indicated by numeral 66 to
make eye contact with the presenting attendee in chair 18 and need
only change her field of view slightly as indicated by field of
view 62 to observe the information presented via display 20b. In a
similar fashion, when the attendee in chair 14 is discussing
information with the attendee in chair 19 just to the right of
chair 14 as illustrated in FIG. 1, the attendee in chair 14 can
simply divert her line of sight slightly to view information
presented via display 20b while the attendee in chair 19 need only
divert his attention slightly to view the information presented via
display 20a.
[0155] Here, some comments regarding the advantageous positioning
of displays 20a and 20b relative to top member 12 are provided.
First, because people are accustomed to communicating with other
people about a table, it has been recognized that obtaining
information from displays positioned directly at table edges is
relatively natural.
[0156] Second where the displays are adjacent and generally rise
above table edges, the screens are at about the same height as
conference attendees around table top member 12. Thus, when an
attendee diverts her attention from another attendee to one of
displays 20a or 20b, while the field of view may change slightly,
the horizontal angle of view generally remains unchanged (i.e., the
attendee need not redirect view up or down to change from observing
another attendee to observing one of the displays 20a or 20b).
[0157] Third, because all conference attendees remain seated while
displays 20a and 20b are used to share information, no one or
sub-set of attendees assumes a relatively more commanding position
(e.g., at the front of a room) with respect to other attendees and
sharing of ideas becomes much more open.
[0158] Fourth, the curved table edges 26b and 28b enable all
attendees to have a good view of both displays 20a and 20b while
still allowing the table top surface to be sufficiently large for
spreading out other conference information.
[0159] Fifth, the curved edges 26b and 28b are inviting for
attendees and encourage attendees to gather therearound.
[0160] Sixth, attendees can view each other attendee as well as
either of displays 20a and 20b without physically turning away from
the space generally above top member 12.
[0161] While the advantageous lines of sight have been described
above for an attendee in chair 14 as illustrated in FIG. 1, it
should be appreciated that each of the attendees in each of the
chairs about table top member 12 has similar advantageous lines of
sight when presenting information, when viewing information
presented by other attendees and when observing or making eye
contact with other attendees.
[0162] In addition to the advantageous table shape described with
respect to FIGS. 1 through 3 above, the edge oriented screen
concept is also advantageous in the context of other table top
shapes. For example, referring to FIG. 5, another conferencing
configuration 70 is illustrated which includes a round table top
member 72, first and second displays 20a and 20b and a plurality of
chairs including, among others, chairs identified by numerals 74,
76 and 78. Here, instead of mounting displays 20a and 20b adjacent
the edges of round top 72, displays 20a and 20b rest on the top of
table top 72 near the edges and oppose each other facing in
opposite directions. Once again, conference attendees generally
have clear and unobstructed lines of sight of each of displays 20a
and 20b. For instance, an attendee in chair 74 can view information
displayed on each of displays 20a and 20b when looking in different
directions and, generally, without turning away from table top
member 72. In addition, each attendee has generally clear and
unobstructed lines of sight of each of the other attendees about
table top member 72. Moreover, each of the attendees can make eye
contact with other attendees and relatively quickly and
unobstructively change their field of view to view information
presented on one of the displays 20a or 20b due to the placement of
the displays with respect to the attendees. For instance, the
attendee in chair 74 can make eye contact with the attendee in
chair 78 by directing her view along field of view 80 and, can then
redirect her view slightly as indicated by field of view 82 to view
information presented via display 20b.
[0163] Another exemplary conferencing configuration 86 is
illustrated in FIG. 6 that includes a symmetrical leaf shaped table
top 88, first and second displays 20a and 20b and a plurality of
chair, three collectively identified by numeral 90. Table top 88
includes first and second oppositely directed corners 92 and 94 and
edges 96 and 98 that traverse the distance between corners 92 and
94. First edge 96 includes a first generally straight section 96a
proximate first corner 92 and a second generally straight section
96b proximate second corner 94 and a curved section 96c between the
first and second straight section 96a and 96b, respectively. Curved
section 96c bows convexly outward and generally away from second
edge 98. Similarly, second edge 98 includes a first generally
straight section 98a proximate second corner 94, a second generally
straight section 98b proximate first corner 92 and a curved section
98c that extends between the first and second straight sections 98a
and 98b, respectively, and that bows generally convexly outwardly
away from first edge 96.
[0164] As illustrated, displays 20a and 20b are positioned adjacent
straight edge sections 96a and 98a so that they generally face in
opposite directions but are slightly offset from each other. Here,
as in the two conference configuration examples described above,
displays 20a and 20b are positioned at a height such that the lower
edges of the display screens are at or slightly above (e.g., within
8 inches) the table top height.
[0165] While only three exemplary table shapes have been described
above, it should be appreciated that the present invention
contemplates many other table top shapes in configurations where at
least two display screen are positioned at or slightly above the
table top height and adjacent or proximate the edges of the table
tops. For instance, other shapes may include a square, a rectangle,
an oval, etc.
[0166] In addition to contemplating conferencing configurations
including two displays positioned adjacent generally opposite table
top edges, other configurations are contemplated that include
three, four, or more display screens positioned adjacent table
edges. To this end, one other exemplary conferencing configuration
100 is illustrated in FIG. 7 that includes a table top member 102,
first, second and third flat panel display screens 20a, 20b and 20c
and a plurality of chairs 106, 108, 110, 112, 114 and 116. Here,
table top member 102 includes three generally straight edges 120,
122 and 124 that form 120.degree. angles with respect to each other
and also includes three curved edges 126, 128 and 130, a separate
curved edge between each two adjacent straight edge sections. Each
curved edge is concave inward bowing generally toward the other two
curved edges as illustrated.
[0167] Displays 20a, 20b and 20c are positioned adjacent straight
edge sections 120, 122 and 124, respectively, such that the display
screens included therewith face toward top 102, are perpendicular
to top 102 and have lower edges that generally reside slightly
above or adjacent top 102. In the illustrated configurations, two
chairs are positioned adjacent each curved edge 126, 128 and 130.
For example, chairs 106 and 108 are adjacent curved edge 126.
[0168] Referring still to FIG. 7, assume a conference attendee in
chair 106 is presenting information via displays 20a, 20b and 20c
while talking directly to an attendee in chair 110. Here, the
presenting attendee in chair 106 can make direct eye contact with
the attendee in chair 110 and, to view one of the displays, can
redirect her line of sight easily and quickly toward display 20c.
Similarly, as the attendee in chair 110 converses with the attendee
in chair 106 and makes eye contact, the attendee in chair 110 can
quickly and easily modify his line of sight to view displayed
information on display 20a. While the attendees in chairs 106 and
110 converse about displayed information, the attendee in chair 112
can either observe information on display 20a while generally
listening to the attendee in chair 106 or can observe information
on display 20c while generally facing the attendee in chair 110.
Similarly, the attendee in chair 108 can observe displayed
information on either of displays 20a or 20c or, if desired, on
display 20b, while the attendees in chairs 114 and 116 can observe
displayed information on display 20a when the attendee in chair 106
is talking or on display 20c when the attendee in chair 110 is
talking.
[0169] Referring now to FIG. 8, an exemplary conferencing
configuration 150 is illustrated that includes a table top member
152, four displays 20a, 20b, 20c and 20d and a plurality of chairs,
four chair collectively identified by numeral 154. In this
embodiment, top 152 is generally octagonal including eight
substantially straight side edge sections 156, 158, 160, 162, 164,
166, 168 and 170. Four of the side edges 156, 160, 164 and 168 have
identical length dimensions where the length dimensions are
substantially similar to the width dimensions W (see again FIG. 2)
of one of the screens 34 of one of the displays (e.g., 20a). The
other four side edges 158, 162, 166 and 170 have identical length
dimensions that are longer than the screen width dimension W. As
illustrated in FIG. 8, a separate one of the displays 20a, 20b, 20c
and 20d is positioned adjacent each of edges 156, 160, 164 and 168
with the display screens facing opposite edges of table top member
152. Here again, as in the previously described conferencing
configurations, conference attendees in chairs 154 have generally
clear and unobstructed views of other attendees as well as of
information presented via at least one and, in many cases, two or
more of the displays 20a, 20b, 20c and 20d.
[0170] While edge mounted brackets like the one described with
respect to FIG. 4 may be used in at least some embodiments for
supporting displays adjacent table edges, other supporting
assemblies are contemplated. For instance, while not illustrated,
it is contemplated that a simple display stand may be provided that
resides adjacent a table top edge to support a display screen
thereabove. In addition, in at least some embodiments, it is
contemplated that support assemblies may be provided to facilitate
movement of display screens with respect to table edges so that,
while displays may be easily positioned adjacent table edges as
described above at times, at other times, the displays can be moved
away from the table edges to be used in a different fashion or to
be stored. For example, referring now to FIG. 9, in at least some
embodiments, it is contemplated that a cart 180 may be provided for
moving displays like display 20a within a conferencing room or the
like and, more specifically, toward and away from a table edge 182
so that the display can be used as described above to facilitate
information sharing around a conference table top or can be moved
to another location for another purpose.
[0171] Cart 180 includes, among other things, a base 184, wheels or
casters collectively identified by numeral 186 and a supporting
flat planar member 188. Base 184 is generally boxed shaped
including four bottom corners. A separate wheel or caster 186 is
mounted proximate each of the bottom corners of base 184 to support
base 184 thereabove for movement along a floor below. Planar member
188 is mounted to the top of base 184 and forms a generally flat
and horizontal surface 190. Planar member 188 includes, among other
edges, a flat edge 192. The combined height of base member 184,
wheels 186 and top member 188 is similar to the height of a table
top surface 200 with which the cart assembly is to be used. Display
20a is placed on top surface 190 and can be moved toward and away
from table edge 182 as indicated by arrow 202.
[0172] Referring now to FIG. 10, a conferencing configuration 220
including a table assembly 222, two flat panel displays 20a and 20b
and two moveable carts 180a and 180b located within a conference
space 230 is illustrated. Conference space 230 includes a back wall
236 and first and second generally parallel lateral walls 238 and
240 that are spaced apart by back wall 236. Each of the lateral
walls 238 and 240 forms a lateral wall surface 242 and 244,
respectively. In the illustrated configuration, table 222 is
positioned mid-way between lateral wall surfaces 242 and 244 and
includes two leg or pedestal structures 232 and 234 and a top
member 224. Pedestals 232 and 234 support top member 224 thereabove
at a table top height suitable for use with chairs (not
illustrated). Top member 224 includes first and second oppositely
facing straight edges 226 and 228 that face lateral wall surfaces
244 and 242, respectively. In a configuration consistent with the
examples above and as illustrated in FIG. 10, carts 180a and 180b
can be used to move displays 20a and 20b to positions adjacent
edges 228 and 226 for particularly advantageous sharing of
information. At other times, carts 180a and 180b can be used to
move displays 20a and 20b away from edges 228 and 226 and generally
against lateral wall surfaces 242 and 244, respectively, so that
table 222 can be used in a different fashion or so that displays
20a and/or 20b can be used in a different fashion (e.g., to
facilitate smaller break-out or side-bar sessions proximate lateral
walls 238 and 240.
[0173] Referring now to FIGS. 11 through 14, another exemplary
conferencing configuration 250 is illustrated that includes a
screen supporting assembly that facilitates screen movement within
a conferencing space. To this end, configuration 250 includes a
table assembly 252, first and second displays 20a and 20b, a
plurality of chairs, two collectively identified by numeral 254, a
rail assembly 256 and first and second supporting arm assemblies
258a and 258b.
[0174] Rail assembly 256 includes first and second posts 260 and
262 and a rail 270. Each of posts 260 and 262 is substantially
similar and therefore, in the interest of simplifying this
explanation, only post 260 will be described here in any detail.
Post 260 is an elongated rigid member including opposite top and
bottom ends 266 and 264, respectively. Post 260 has a length
dimension such that, when rail 270 is attached to the top thereof
and perpendicular thereto, a person of ordinary height can easily
walk below rail 256 without concern for head clearance. Posts 260
and 262 are mounted to a floor structure 265 on opposite sides of a
conference space 271 therebetween and such that the posts 260 and
262 are substantially vertically oriented with top ends 266 at
similar heights.
[0175] Referring still to FIGS. 11 through 14, rail 270 is an
elongated rigid member including first and second ends 272 and 274
that are mounted to the top ends (e.g., 266 in FIG. 12) of posts
260 and 262 and traverses the distance therebetween. Any type of
mechanical mounting structure known may be used to mount rail
member 270 to posts 260 and 262. Referring specifically to FIG. 14,
rail 270 has a generally rectilinear cross-section including
parallel top and bottom side surfaces 276 and 278 and parallel
lateral side surfaces 280 and 282. Rail 270 forms separate T-slots
271, 273, 275 and 277 in each of side surfaces 276, 278, 280 and
282, respectively, and generally along the entire length of the
rail.
[0176] Referring again to FIGS. 11 through 13, table assembly 252
includes an oval shaped top member 284 and first and second
pedestal or leg structures 286 and 288. Pedestals 286 and 288 rest
on floor structure 265 and support top member 284 thereabove at a
table top height suitable for use with chairs 254. Top member 284
includes first and second oppositely facing ends 290 and 292,
respectively. In the illustrated configuration, table assembly 252
is positioned centrally between posts 260 and 262.
[0177] Referring to FIG. 12, each of support arm assemblies 258a
and 258b is identical and therefore, in the interest of simplifying
this explanation, only assembly 258a will be described here in any
detail. Referring also to FIG. 14, assembly 258a includes a glide
assembly 298 and an extension arm 300. Glide assembly 298 includes
a base member 302 and first and second rigid lateral members 304
and 306 that extend upward from the base member 302. Lateral
members 304 and 306 are separated by a space dimension slightly
greater than the width of rail member 270 between surfaces 280 and
282. An axel 310 extends from member 304 toward member 306 and a
roller wheel 314 is mounted thereto for rotation about a horizontal
axis 301. Similarly, an axel 312 extends from member 306 toward
member 304 and a roller wheel 316 is mounted thereto for rotation
about horizontal axis 301. Wheels 314 and 316 are dimensioned to be
receivable with clearance within T-slots 277 and 275. A third axel
308 extends upward from base member 302 between members 304 and 306
and a third roller wheel 320 is mounted thereto for rotation about
a vertical axis 303 that is perpendicular to axis 301. Wheel 320 is
dimensioned to be received in T-slot 273 with clearance.
[0178] Arm 300 is an elongated rigid member that includes a top end
330 and a bottom end 332. In at least some embodiments, top end 330
is rigidly mounted to base member 302 and bottom end 332 is rigidly
mounted to a bracket 334 (see again FIG. 12) that is in turn
mounted to a rear surface of display 20a.
[0179] Referring once again to FIGS. 12 and 14, support arm
assembly 258a is mounted to rail member 270 by positioning roller
wheels 314, 316 and 320 in T-slots 277, 275 and 273, respectively.
Here, rollers 314 and 316 rest on upward facing surfaces of lateral
T-slots 277 and 275 to hold the arm assembly 258a and display 20a
attached thereto in a suspended fashion. Third roller wheel 320
contacts one of the lateral surfaces of bottom T-slot 273 to reduce
lateral sway of arm assembly 258a and display 20a attached
thereto.
[0180] With the arm assembly 258a supporting display 20a as
described above, it should be appreciated that arm assembly 258a
and the attached display can be moved along the length of rail
member 270 and, more specifically, can be moved between a first
in-use position adjacent a table edge as illustrated in FIGS. 11
and 12 and a second storage or in-use position as illustrated in
FIG. 13 where the display 20a is adjacent beam 260. Similarly, arm
258b and attached display 20b can be moved between first and second
in-use positions as indicated in FIGS. 12 and 13, respectively.
[0181] Where displays 20a and 20b are mounted to an overhead rail
270, in at least some cases the lower ends of the displays 20a and
20b may reside just above the table top member 284 so that the
displays 20a and 20b can be moved to supported locations above the
table top member 284 while in other cases the lower ends of
displays 20a and 20b may be slightly below top member 284.
[0182] According to another aspect of the present invention, it has
been recognized that, while it is advantageous to have two or more
displays positioned at the edges of a table top that face in
generally opposite directions to facilitate information sharing, in
at least some embodiments, it is also advantageous to have
additional background displays that are viewable by conference
attendees for posting background information or information that is
important but not the immediate focus of the conference attendees.
To this end, in at least some cases, it is contemplated that
background display assemblies or screens may be placed "off axis"
from displays positioned at table edges. For instance, referring
again to FIG. 11, where displays 20a and 20b have been positioned
at opposite ends of table assembly 252, additional larger displays
20c and 20d may be mounted or supported at locations spaced from
the table edge, generally between displays 20a and 20b and parallel
to rail member 270. Here, when appropriate, information presented
on display 20c can be viewed by conference attendees on a side of
table assembly 252 opposite display 20c while information presented
via display 20d maybe viewed by attendees on a side of assembly 252
opposite display 20d.
[0183] While the off-axis displays have been described here with
respect to the embodiment including posts 260 and 262 and rail 270
as illustrated in FIGS. 11 through 13, it should be appreciated
that the off-axis displays maybe used in any of the inventive
embodiments described throughout this specification including
embodiments where brackets mount edge displays directly to table
edges, embodiments where carts are used to move displays or to
support displays with respect to table edges, etc. In this regard,
off-axis displays are shown in various other illustrated and
described configurations (e.g., see display 20c in FIG. 10,
displays 20c and 20d in FIG. 21, displays 20c and 20d in FIG. 20,
etc.)
[0184] According to one additional aspect to the present invention,
where displays and, in particular, flat panel displays, are mounted
or supported for movement within a conference space, it has been
recognized that the display or displays can be used to facilitate
break-out sessions within the larger conference space by acting as
display screens dedicated to smaller spaces within the larger space
and, in at least some cases, also acting or operating as physical
barriers within the larger space to, in effect, cordon off smaller
spaces used by smaller groups of attendees. For example, in at
least some cases, it is contemplated that, referring once again to
FIG. 14, extension member 300 may be rotationally mounted to base
member 302 and/or, display 20a may be rotationally mounted to
extension member 300 to facilitate rotation of display 20a about a
substantially vertical support axis 350. Although not illustrated,
any type of mechanical structure may be provided between base
member 302 and arm 300 and/or between arm 300 and the bracket 334
mounted to the rear of display 20a to facilitate relative
rotation.
[0185] Here, as illustrated in FIGS. 11 and 13, display 20a can be
rotated about support axis 350 (see FIG. 14) so that, instead of
facing post 262, display 20a faces post 260. Thereafter, display
20a can be moved into the location shown in phantom and indicated
by label 20a', generally above table top 284. Similarly, display
20b can be rotated so that display 20b faces post 262 instead of
post 260 and then display 20b can be moved along rail member 270
until display 20b is in the position indicated by label 20b'
generally above the mid-section of table top member 284. With the
displays positioned as indicated above, as best seen in FIG. 11,
conference attendees to the left of display 20a' as illustrated can
use display 20a' to facilitate a break-out session at the left end
of table assembly 252. Similarly, attendees to the right of display
20b' as illustrated can use display 20b' to facilitate a break-out
session at the right end of table assembly 252 as illustrated. In
this case, displays 20a' and 20b' operate as a physical barrier
between the break-out sessions that take place at opposite ends of
table assembly 252.
[0186] Although not illustrated, as another alternative, referring
once again to FIG. 11, display 20a' may be rotated 900 so that
display 20a' faces off axis display 20c and generally faces the top
half of table assembly 252. Similarly, display 20b' can be rotated
90.degree. so that display 20b' generally faces off axis display
20d and the bottom half of table assembly 252 and can be slid along
rail 270 until an edge of display 20b' is adjacent a proximate edge
of display 20a'. In this case, the displays operate as a barrier
between the top and bottom halves of table assembly 252 and can be
separately used by attendees adjacent the top and bottom halves of
table assembly 252 to facilitate break-out sessions.
[0187] Instead of providing linear beam or rail members as
illustrated in FIGS. 11 through 13, in at least some inventive
embodiments, it is contemplated that non-linear rail member may be
employed that allow movement of displays to advantageous positions
within a conference space thereby facilitating relatively large
conference sessions and smaller break-out sessions. For instance,
referring now to FIGS. 15 through 17, yet another inventive
conferencing configuration 360 is illustrated that includes a table
assembly 362, three circular rail members 364, 366 and 368, six
display assemblies 370, 372, 374, 376, 378 and 380 and six chairs
382, 384, 386, 388, 390 and 392. Although not illustrated, table
assembly 362 includes pedestals or leg structures below a top
member 394 for supporting the top member 394 a generally horizontal
orientation and posts akin to the posts illustrated in FIGS. 11
through 13 are provided to support rail members 364, 366 and 368
overhead (e.g., at a height similar to the height illustrated in
FIGS. 11 through 13).
[0188] Table top member 394 has a generally triangular shape with
the corners rounded off substantially. Circular rail members 364,
366 and 368 are supported above table top 394 with one of the rail
members having an outer rail section that is generally above each
of the rounded table top 394 corners. The chairs (e.g., 382, 384,
etc.) are positioned along straight edge sections of table top
394.
[0189] Referring to FIG. 17, exemplary rail member 364 includes a
circular rail section that has a cross-section having features
similar to the features described above with respect to FIG. 14.
More specifically, rail member 364 forms lateral and top and bottom
T-slots along the entire length thereof. Each display assembly
(e.g., 370, 372, etc.) includes a display and a mounting arm
assembly similar to the assembly illustrated in FIG. 14 except
that, in this case, the display 20a is mounted so as to be parallel
to the rail to which the supporting arm assembly is mounted (i.e.,
display 20a is rotated 90.degree. about support axis 303 as
illustrated in FIG. 14). Here, display assemblies 370 and 372 are
mounted to rail member 364 so that the displays 370 and 372 face
opposite portions of member 364. Similarly, displays 374 and 376
are mounted to rail member 366 so that displays 374 and 376 face
opposite portions of rail member 366 and display assemblies 378 and
380 are mounted to rail member 368 so that displays 378 and 380
face opposite portions of rail member 368.
[0190] With the configuration components assembled as described
above, in at least one useful configuration, all of display
assemblies 370, 372, 374, 376, 378 and 380 are rotated about
associated rail members 364, 366 and 368 such that the displays are
adjacent rounded edges of table top member 394 and generally face
opposite straight sections of table top member 394 as best
illustrated in FIG. 15. In this relative orientation, configuration
360 is particularly useful for sharing of information between all
six conference attendees located in chairs 382, 384, 386, 388, 390
and 392. Here, it should be appreciated that attendees in chairs
382 and 384 have easy viewing of the displays associated with
assemblies 374 and 376, attendees in chairs 390 and 392 have easy
viewing of the displays associated with assemblies 370 and 372 and
attendees in chairs 386 and 388 have easy viewing of information
presented via the displays associated with assemblies 378 and
380.
[0191] Referring to FIG. 16, to facilitate one relatively small
break-out session for two conference attendees and a second
relatively larger break-out session for four conference attendees,
the display assemblies 370, 372, 374, 376, 378 and 380 can be slid
along rail members 364, 366 and 368 to positions generally above
table top member 394 so that displays associated with assemblies
378 and 380 generally face one rounded edge of top member 394 while
displays associated with assemblies 370, 372, 374 and 376 generally
face in a direction opposite the direction of the displays
associated with assemblies 378 and 380 and generally toward one of
the straight edges 398 of table top member 394. Here, chairs 382
and 392 can be moved to positions that facilitate easy viewing of
the displays associated with assemblies 378 and 380 while chairs
384, 386, 388 and 390 are moved to locations that facilitate easy
viewing of the displays associated with assemblies 370, 372, 374
and 376. It should be appreciated that, when configured as
illustrated in FIG. 16, the display assemblies (e.g., 370, 372,
etc.) form a barrier between different sections of table top member
394 generally along the line labeled 361.
[0192] Although not illustrated in neither of FIGS. 15 or 16, the
components of configuration 360 may be reoriented to facilitate
three relatively small break-out sessions by simply moving display
assemblies 370 and 372 about rail member 364 so that they generally
face rounded edge 400 and moving assemblies 374 and 376 about rail
member 366 so that displays associated therewith generally face
rounded edge 402. Here, three separate break-out sessions can be
facilitated, each break-out session adjacent a different one of the
rounded edges 400, 402 and 404.
[0193] In addition, where the displays associated with assemblies
370, 372, 374, 376, 378 and 380 are mounted for rotation about a
vertical axis as described above with respect to FIGS. 13 and 14,
in at least some cases, each display assembly 370, 372, 374, 376,
378 and 380 may be used separately for individual processing by
arranging the displays appropriately on rail members 364, 366 and
368. For instance, in FIG. 16A, assemblies 370, 372, 374, 376, 378
and 380 are arranged in one configuration to enable individual work
by the attendees in the chairs (e.g., 382, 384, etc.) as
arranged.
[0194] Referring now to FIGS. 18 and 19, yet another exemplary
conference configuration 410 is illustrated that is similar to the
conference configuration 360 in FIGS. 15 and 16. The main
difference between configuration 410 and configuration 360 is that,
instead of including a generally triangular shaped table top member
394, configuration 410 includes three round table top members 412,
414 and 416 that generally have the same shapes as the round shapes
defined by rail members 364, 366 and 368. Here, table tops 412, 414
and 416 are arranged such that edges are adjacent each other and so
as to form a generally triangular table configuration. Rail members
364, 366 and 368 are mounted above tops 414, 416 and 412 so as to,
in general, circumscribe the table top edges when viewed from
above.
[0195] Display assemblies 370, 372, 374, 376, 378 and 380 are
mounted to rail members 364, 366 and 368 for sliding movement
therealong in the same manner described above with respect to FIGS.
15 and 16. Chairs, two identified collectively by numeral 420, are
provided along the edges of table top members 412, 414 and 416 for
conference attendees.
[0196] As illustrated in FIG. 18, display assemblies 370, 372, 374,
376, 378 and 380 can be moved along rail members 364, 366 and 368
to positions such that the display assemblies each generally face
the two rail members that the display assemblies are not mounted
to. For instance, display assemblies 370 and 372 can be moved to
positions such that assembly 370 generally faces rail member 366
and assembly 372 generally faces rail member 368. With the display
assemblies positioned as described above, a relatively large
conference can be facilitated with attendees using each of table
top members 412, 414 and 416.
[0197] Referring to FIG. 19, to facilitate three small break-out
sessions, display assemblies 370, 372, 374, 376, 378 and 380 can be
moved along rail members 364, 366 and 368 to positions wherein the
displays associated with the display assemblies generally face away
from rail members that the display assemblies are not mounted to.
When so positioned, the configuration chairs (e.g., 420) can be
repositioned about the table top edges so that smaller groups of
attendees can use separate and dedicated pairs of the display
assemblies to share information. Once again it should be
appreciated that when the display assemblies 370, 372, 374, 376,
378 and 380 are positioned to facilitate small break-out sessions,
in addition to providing display screens for smaller groups of
conference attendees, the displays provide barriers between the
smaller groups.
[0198] According to one additional aspect of at least some
embodiments of the present invention, it is contemplated that
displays may be supported for movement away from a conference table
edge to another location within a general conference space to
facilitate one or more smaller break-out sessions within a larger
conference space. To this end, referring now to FIG. 20 in at least
one embodiment, an overhead rail member may extend past at least
one edge of a conference table top member 424 so that, when a
display 20a is moved away from an adjacent table top edge 426, the
display remains separated from a conferencing space wall or other
type of barrier 428 such that additional chairs and the like may be
supported between the display 20a and the wall 428. For instance,
in FIG. 20, two lounge type chairs 430 and 432 with a small round
table 434 therebetween are positioned adjacent conferencing space
wall 428 and are spaced away from facing table top edge 426. Here,
display 20a can be moved along the direction indicated by arrow 440
away from edge 426 and toward wall 428 and can be rotated
180.degree. as indicated by arrow 442 such that the display faces
wall 428 and generally faces lounge chairs 430 and 432. When
display 20a is so positioned, two conference attendees can use
chairs 430 and 432 and display 20a to facilitate a small two person
break-out session in a space generally removed from table top 424
and where the display 20a allows presentation of ideas and also
forms a physical barrier between the break-out session attendees
and other persons generally within the larger conference space
560.
[0199] In FIG. 20, an additional relatively small break-out area or
space 444 formed by walls 576, 578 and 580 at the second end of
rail member 270 is illustrated. Again, two chairs 446 and 448 as
well as a small round table 450 are provided in space 444. Here, to
facilitate a small break-out session within space 444, display 20b
is moved to a location adjacent space 444 and rotate through
180.degree. in a fashion similar to that described above with
respect to display 20a.
[0200] In other embodiments it is contemplated that, instead of
using a linear rail like rail member 270 in FIG. 20 to support
displays at locations away from table top edges, contoured or
non-linear rail members may be employed that allow break-out
sessions away from a table top edge and at different orientations
with respect to the table top. To this end, referring now to FIGS.
21 and 22, another advantageous conferencing configuration 460 is
illustrated that includes, among other things, a table assembly
455, a Z-shaped rail member 458, first and second displays 20a and
20b, a plurality of conference chairs, two identified collectively
by numeral 462, four break-out sessions chairs 464, 466, 468 and
470 and two break-out session tables 472 and 474. Table assembly
455 includes an oval shaped top member 452 having oppositely facing
rounded edges 454 and 456. Assembly 455 also includes leg or
pedestal structures 457 and 459 that support top member 452 at a
table top height suitable for use with chairs 462.
[0201] Rail assembly 458 includes a linear central section 480 and
two end sections 482 and 484. End sections 482 and 484 extend from
opposite ends of central section 480 in opposite directions and
form right angles therewith. Referring again to FIG. 14 and also to
FIG. 21, each rail section 480, 482 and 484 is similar to rail
section 270 forming T-slots in each rail surface. The T-slots of
rail section 480 open into the T-slots of section 482 and also open
into the T-slits of section 484 so that the glide assembly wheels
or rollers can move from one rail section to the next. Here, if
necessary, additional clearance within the T-slots may be provided
where the rail sections 480, 482 and 484 intersect to ensure smooth
operating or, if necessary, curved rail sections akin to the rails
illustrated in FIGS. 18 and 19 may be provided between straight
sections 480, 482 and 484 to ensure smooth gliding motion.
[0202] As best illustrated in FIG. 22, rail assembly 458 is mounted
to a ceiling 486 by posts 488 and 490 that extend down therefrom
instead of being mounted to post that extend up from a floor below.
Assembly 458 is mounted such that central rail member 480 is
aligned along the length of table top member 452 and thereabove and
so that end rail members 482 and 484 extend substantially
perpendicular to the length dimension of table top member 452.
[0203] Lounge type chairs 464 and 466 and table 472 are arranged
adjacent a distal end of rail member 482. Similarly, chairs 468 and
470 and table 474 are arranged adjacent a distal end of rail member
484. Displays 20a and 20b and associated support arms are mounted
to rail assembly 458 for sliding motion there along and for
rotational motion about a support axis 303 (see aging FIG. 14).
[0204] With the configuration components arranged as described
above, referring still to in FIGS. 21 and 22, displays 20a and 20b
can be positioned adjacent the opposite table top edges 454 and 456
for use by conference attendees in chairs 462 that are gathered
around table top member 452. To facilitate smaller two-person
break-out sessions, displays 20a and 20b can be moved along rail
assembly 458 as indicated by arrows 492 and 494, respectively, and
can be rotated generally through 180.degree. about their support
axis 303 until the displays 20a and 20b are adjacent the distal
ends of rail members 482 and 484, respectively. These positions of
the displays are shown in phantom and indicated by labels 20a' and
20b'. Once again, displays 20a' and 20b' provide convenient screens
for break-out session attendees using chairs 464 and 466 and chairs
468 and 470 to share information and also provide barriers between
break-out session attendees and the larger conference space.
[0205] Referring now to FIG. 23, one additional exemplary
conferencing configuration 500 that includes a non-linear rail
assembly 502 is illustrated. Here, assembly 502 includes a central
rail member 504 and first and second end rail members 506 and 508.
In this embodiment, configuration 500 is employed in a conference
room including walls 510, 512, 514 and 516 that generally form a
rectilinear conference space 590 where oppositely facing walls 514
and 516 are generally longer than oppositely facing walls 510 and
512. A table assembly including an oval shaped top member 518 is
positioned generally centrally within conference space 590 and so
that its length between oppositely facing rounded edges 520 and 522
is substantially parallel to the long walls 514 and 516 that define
space 590. Central rail member 504 is mounted by posts 524 and 526
from a ceiling (not illustrated) above conference space 590 so that
rail member 504 is above table top member 518, parallel to wall
members 514 and 516 and extends from wall member 510 to oppositely
facing wall member 512. End rail member 506 and 508 extends from
opposite ends of central member 504 generally in opposite
directions toward wall members 514 and 516 and form approximately
45.degree. angles with central members 504. The distal end of first
end rail member 506 is mounted to the ceiling via a post 530
adjacent wall 514. Similarly, end rail member 508 is mounted to the
ceiling via a post 532 that extends down therefrom adjacent wall
516. Once again, member 504, 506 and 508 have cross-sections
similar to the cross-section of rail member 270 illustrated in FIG.
14 and the T-slots formed by rail member 504 open into similar
T-slots formed by rail members 506 and 508 so that support arm
assemblies that support displays 20a and 20b can glide or move
between members 504, 506 and 508 relatively easily.
[0206] With the configuration components arranged as described
above, referring still to FIG. 23, displays 20a and 20b can be
positioned adjacent opposite table edges 520 and 522 to facilitate
a relatively large conference session between attendees gathered
around top member 518. When displays 20a and 20b are not required
for use around top member 518, the displays can be moved away from
the table edges 520 and 522 and placed in storage positions or for
other uses away from table top member 518. For instance, display
20a can be moved in the direction indicated by arrow 540 toward
wall 510 and placed in a storage or other use position shown in
phantom and indicate by label 20a' against wall 510. In the
alternative, from the position indicated by label 20a', display
20a' can be moved along the direction indicated by arrow 542 along
rail member 506 toward wall 514 and can be rotated through
approximately 180.degree. into the position indicated by label
20a'' so that the display generally faces chairs 544 and 546
arranged to facilitate a small two-person break-out session
adjacent rail member 506. Moreover, from the position indicated by
label 20a'', display 20a'' can be moved and rotated along the
direction indicated by arrow 548 into the position indicated by
label 20a''' against wall 514 either for storage or use adjacent
wall 514.
[0207] Although not described here in detail, display 20b can be
moved in a fashion similar to that described above with respect to
display 20a and indicated by multiple phantom display
representations in FIG. 23 so that display 20b can be positioned
against wall 512, against wall 516 or in any of several different
positions with respect to the pair of break-out session chairs 550
and 552.
[0208] According to another aspect of at least some embodiments of
the present invention, it is contemplated that the walls of a
conferencing space may be specially configured to facilitate both a
large conference or meeting and relatively smaller break-out
conference spaces. In this regard, referring once again to FIG. 20,
in at least some embodiments, conference walls 560, 562, 564 and
565 may generally define a relatively large conference space 508
that accommodates a conference table and a plurality (e.g., 8) of
chairs to be used adjacent the conference table. In addition,
additional walls may form alcoves or smaller spaces that extend
into openings in one or more of the walls 560, 562, 564 and 565
that form the larger conferencing space 560. For example, in FIG.
20, walls 570, 572 and 428 form an alcove or break-out space 574 in
an opening 610 formed in wall 564 to accommodate chairs 430 and 432
as well as break-out session table 434. Similarly, in FIG. 20,
walls 576, 578 and 580 together define a second alcove space 444
that extends into an opening 611 formed in wall 566 for
accommodating chairs 446 and 448 and break-out session table 450.
These alcove or break-out spaces 574 and 444 generally allow pairs
of conference attendees to form a sidebar away from the larger
conference space 560 and, because of their enclosed nature, provide
a feeling of relative privacy within the larger space.
[0209] A second exemplary embodiment wherein wall structure
facilitates break-out sessions is illustrated in FIG. 23. In FIG.
23, a relatively large conference space 590 is formed by walls 510,
512, 514 and 516 where alcove spaces 592 and 594 extend into
openings in opposite corners of a larger conferencing space 590.
Here, for instance, additional walls 596, 598, 600 and 602 form
alcove space 592 at a corner between walls 510 and 514 where wall
596 is perpendicular to wall 514, walls 602 is perpendicular to
wall 510 and extends thereinto, wall 600 is parallel to wall 510
and wall 598 is parallel to wall 514. Similarly, additional walls
(not labeled) are provided at the corner where wall 512 approaches
wall 516 to form break-out space 594.
[0210] The wall structures that form the alcove spaces 592 and 594
accommodates chair pairs at particularly advantageous angles for
two person communication. More specifically, for example, chairs
544 and 546 can be positioned within space 592 such that attendees
in the chairs are oriented at a generally 90.degree. angle with
respect to each other which has been identified as a particularly
advantageous angle for two person communication. Angles other than
90.degree. but still within a range generally about 90.degree.
(e.g., 60-120.degree.) for the orientations of chair pairs within
spaces 592 and 594 are contemplated.
[0211] In at least some embodiments, it is contemplated that the
display supporting rail assembly can be designed and positioned
with respect to the walls of a conferencing room including
break-out session alcoves such that the displays and walls can
further operate in a synergistic fashion to give the feeling of
additional privacy when break-out sessions occur within the
alcoves. To this end, in at least one embodiment, referring again
to FIG. 20, where break-out alcove spaces 444 and 574 are at
opposite ends of rail member 270, rail member 270 may have a length
that extends into the opposite alcove spaces 574 and 444 or at
least to the openings 610 and 611 that open into those spaces. In
this case, when a display screen 20a is moved into a position
adjacent space 574 and is rotated to face into space 574, break-out
attendees in chairs 430 and 432 have a relatively private space for
sharing information where walls 570, 572 and 428 as well as the
display 20a substantially enclose space 574. Similarly, display 20b
may cooperate with walls 576, 580 and 578 to substantially enclose
space 444 for an additional break-out session.
[0212] Referring again to FIG. 23, when a display 20a'' is
positioned adjacent alcove space 592, the display 20a'' and walls
596, 598, 600 and 602 together substantially cordon off alcove
space 592 from the larger conferencing space 590 to facilitate a
break-out session.
[0213] The advantages associated with providing a wall structure
that forms break-out session alcoves as described with respect to
FIGS. 20 and 23 can also be obtained in the context of other
conferencing configurations where displays are supported by other
support structure for movement. To this end, for instance,
referring to FIGS. 24 and 25, yet another exemplary conference
configuration 620 is illustrated that includes a wall structure
622, a table assembly 621 including a table top member 624 having
oppositely facing first and second straight edge sections 626 and
628, respectively, conferencing chairs, two of which are
collectively identified by numeral 630, display screens 20a, 20b,
20c and 20d, break-out session chairs 632, 634, 636 and 638 and
break-out session tables 640 and 642. Here, wall structure 622
includes two long substantially parallel side walls 642 and 646 and
two substantially parallel end walls 644 and 648 where walls 642,
644, 646 and 648 generally form a rectilinear relatively large
conference space 654. Wall structure 622 also includes additional
walls that form alcove or break-out spaces 650 and 652 at opposite
corners of larger conference space 654 in a manner akin to that
described above with respect to FIG. 23.
[0214] Break-out session chairs 632 and 634 and table 640 are
arranged within break-out space 650. Similarly, chairs 636 and 638
and table 642 are arranged in break-out space 652. The table
including top member 624 is positioned generally centrally within
large conferencing space 654 and chairs 630 are placed therearound
except for along straight edge sections 626 and 628.
[0215] In this embodiment, referring still to FIGS. 24 and 25 and
also to FIG. 9, displays 20a, 20b, 20c and 20d are supported via
wheeled carts for movement within space 654. Consistent with at
least some of the configurations described above, at least two of
the displays 20a and 20b may be positioned adjacent straight edge
sections 626 and 628 to facilitate conferencing at top member 624
as illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25. Here, as illustrated in FIG. 24,
displays 20c and 20d maybe positioned against walls 642 and 646 for
off-axis viewing. With displays 20a and 20b adjacent edges 626 and
628, respectively, display 20c may be moved as indicated by arrow
660 to a location indicated by label 20c' to facilitate a
two-person break-out session between attendees in chairs 632 and
634. Similarly, when the attendees in chairs 632 and 634 require a
second display screen to facilitate their break-out session,
display 20d can be moved along the direction indicated by arrow 662
to the location indicated by label 20d' adjacent space 650 to
facilitate the break-out session. Where two displays are positioned
adjacent a corner alcove space (e.g., 650), advantageously, one of
the displays 20c' can be positioned so as to directly face the
break-out session attendee in chair 634 while the other display
20d' is positioned so as to directly face the attendee in chair 632
as illustrated in FIGS. 24 and 25.
[0216] Similarly, displays 20a and 20b may be moved to locations
adjacent space 652 to facilitate a break-out session therein. In
the alternative, any of the displays 20a-20d may be used with any
of the two alcove spaces 650 or 652 to facilitate a break-out
session and any of the displays may be used with top member 624 to
facilitate a larger conference.
[0217] According to at least one additional aspect of the present
invention, it has been recognized that conferencing tables like the
ones described above may be replaced by table assemblies where
table top members includes two or more top members that can be
arranged together to facilitate relatively large conferences and
that can be separated to facilitate break-out sessions within a
conferencing space. To this end, in at least some embodiments it is
contemplated that the supporting structure for supporting table top
members at table top heights may include a rail assembly below the
table top members that allows the separate members to slide
therealong between at least a first positions where the tops can be
used together to facilitate a relatively large conference and a
second position wherein the tops are at least relatively more
separated and can be used to facilitate the break-out sessions.
[0218] Consistent with the comments above, referring now to FIGS.
26 through 32, an exemplary split table conferencing configuration
670 is illustrated that includes first and second top members 672
and 674, respectively, a supporting structure 676, first and second
optional displays 678 and 680, respectively and a plurality of
conferencing chairs, two of which are collectively indicated by
numeral 682 in FIG. 24.
[0219] Each of top members 672 and 674 has a substantially similar
configuration and shape and therefore, in the interest of
simplifying this explanation, only member 672 will be described
here in detail. Member 672 is a rigid planar member including a
first straight long edge 684, a second straight short edge 686 and
a third generally curved edge 688. Straight edges 686 and 684 come
together to form a corner and are perpendicular to each other.
Curved edge 688 generally includes a straight edge section 690
adjacent edge 686 and that is substantially perpendicular thereto
and a curved edge sections 692 that extends from straight edge
section 690 to an end of edge 684 opposite edge 686. The curved
section 692 is generally curved convex outwardly away from straight
edge section 684.
[0220] Referring still to FIGS. 26 through 29, support structure
676 includes a rail member 696, stationary leg post members 698 and
700, glide assemblies 711 and 713 and movable leg assemblies 710,
712, 714 and 716. Each of stationary leg members 698 and 700 are
rigidly mounted to a floor structure 720 and extend vertically up
therefrom. Rail member 696 is mounted to the top ends of leg
members 698 and 700 in any suitable fashion so that rail member 698
is substantially horizontal. Rail member 698 is a linearly rail
member similar to the rail member described above with respect to
FIG. 14 and, to that end, forms separate T-slots in each of four
separate rail member surfaces 276, 278, 280 and 282.
[0221] Four glide assemblies 711 (not illustrated) are mounted to
an undersurface of top member 672 and four assemblies 713 (see FIG.
27) are similarly mounted to an undersurface of top member 674 in
an aligned fashion. Because each of the glide assemblies is
similarly constructed and operates in a similar fashion, only one
of assemblies 711 will be described here in any detail. Exemplary
assembly 711 includes a bracket 702 mounted to the undersurface of
top member 672 adjacent edge 684 that extends generally
perpendicularly from the undersurface. About midway along the
length of bracket 702 an axel 780 extends parallel to top member
672 and generally in the direction of edge 684. A roller wheel 782
dimensioned to be received with clearance within T-slot 721 is
mounted to axel 780 for rotation about a horizontal axis 729. Near
the distal end of bracket 702, bracket 702 forms a recess 704 in
which another roller wheel 776 is mounted for rotation about a
vertical axis 708. Wheel 776 is dimensioned and mounted within
recess 704 such that a surface thereof extends out of recess 704
and past an adjacent surface of bracket 702.
[0222] To mount top member 672 to rail member 696, roller 782 is
placed within T-slot 721 and roller 776 is received on external
rail surface 280 adjacent slot 721 such that rollers 776 and 782
generally support top 672 in a cantilevered fashion. Similarly,
upon mounting of top member 674 to rail 696, rollers 784 and 786
support top member 674 in a cantilevered fashion. In addition to
being supported by rail 696 and assemblies sets 711 and 713, top
members 672 and 674 are also supported by leg structures 710, 712,
etc., and therefore there is little binding between the rollers and
the rail. Other glide assembly types and configurations are
contemplated.
[0223] Each of leg assemblies 710, 712, 714 and 716 has a similar
construction and operation and therefore, in the interest of
simplifying this explanation, only assembly 710 will be described
here in detail. Assembly 710 includes a rigid leg member 790 having
an upper end 792 and a lower end 794. Upper end 792 is rigidly
attached to an undersurface of top member 672 proximate the corner
of member 672 formed by edges 686 and 690. A caster or roller 800
is mounted to the lower end of member 790. Leg assembly 714 is
mounted to a lower surface of member 672 proximate curved edge
section 692. Leg assemblies 712 and 716 are mounted to the lower
surface of member 674 at locations akin to the locations described
above with respect to leg assemblies 710 and 714.
[0224] In this embodiment, it will be assumed that displays 20a and
20b are mounted to the short straight edges (e.g., 686 in FIG. 26)
of top members 672 and 674 via brackets similar to the brackets
described above with respect to FIG. 4 so that displays 20a and 20b
move along with top members 672 and 674, respectively.
[0225] Referring once again to FIGS. 26 through 29, in at least one
orientation, top members 672 and 674 can be moved over rail member
696 so that the long straight edges (e.g., 684) are aligned. In
this orientation, top members 672 and 674 can be used together to
facilitate a relatively large conference where attendee chairs 682
are arranged along the curved edges 688 of the members 672 and
674.
[0226] When conference attendees desire to break-out into two small
groups to facilitate additional discussions, referring to FIG. 30,
table top members 672 and 674 can be slid along rail 696 in
opposite directions indicated by arrows 810 and 812 thereby
increasing the distance between displays 20a and 20b. During
sliding motion of top members 672 and 674, the top members are
supported by roller wheels 776, 772, 784 and 786 (see again FIG.
29) and casters 800 at the bottoms of leg assemblies 710, 712, 714
and 716 for easy movement. After top members 672 and 674 have been
separated as illustrated in FIG. 30, chairs 682 can be rearranged
at opposite ends of the split table assembly to facilitate two
breakout sessions adjacent displays 20a and 20b. Here, the distance
between displays 20a and 20b as well as the orientation of chairs
682 with respect to the different displays 20a and 20b helps to
focus breakout session attendees on information presented via one
of the displays and away from the information presented via the
other display.
[0227] Referring now to FIG. 31, instead of separating the table
top members 672 and 674 so that displays 20a and 20b are further
apart, in at least some embodiments it is contemplated that members
672 and 674 may be slid in the opposite directions indicated by
arrows 675 and 677 so that displays 20a and 20b end up proximate
each other to facilitate separate breakout sessions. In this case,
in addition to providing dedicated displays for the two separate
breakout sessions, the displays also provide a physical barrier
between the two breakout sessions giving session attendees a
greater sense of privacy.
[0228] Referring now to FIGS. 32 and 33, an additional split table
conferencing configuration 830 is illustrated that includes first
and second table top members 832 and 834, respectively, a support
structure 836, first and second optional displays 20a and 20b,
respectively, and a plurality of chairs, two collectively
identified by numeral 838. Here, configuration 830 is similar to
the configuration described above with respect to FIGS. 26 through
31 with a few exceptions. First, top members 832 and 834 have
shapes that are different than the shapes of members 672 and 674
described above. In addition, while members 672 and 674 were
arranged to slide along rail 696 in a direction substantially
perpendicular to displays 20a and 20b, in FIGS. 32 and 33, top
members 832 and 834 slide along a rail that forms part of support
structure 836 in directions substantially parallel to displays 20a
and 20b in opposite directions indicated by arrows 840 and 842.
Here, top members 832 and 834 may either be positioned adjacent
each other as indicated in FIG. 32 to facilitate a relatively large
conference or can be split as indicated in FIG. 33 to facilitate
relatively smaller breakout sessions where, while the table top
members 832 and 834 are separated, the displays 20a and 20b are
nevertheless relatively close so that members in the two separate
breakout sessions have a better view of the displays used by the
other breakout session attendees.
[0229] In at least some embodiments, it is contemplated that split
tables may be positioned within the context of a conferencing space
having wall structure and additional displays where the wall
structure, display positions and table juxtaposition are selected
so that additional synergies results. To this end, for instance,
referring now to FIGS. 34 and 35, a split table assembly 670
similar to the one described above in respect to FIGS. 26 through
31 may be located within a conference space 846 including
oppositely facing parallel side walls 848 and 850 where generally
off axis displays 20c and 20d are mounted to walls 848 and 850,
respectively. In the configuration shown in FIGS. 34 an 35,
displays 20a and 20b are supported by castered carts (see again 180
in FIG. 9) instead of being mounted to the edges of table top
members 672 and 674 so that the displays 20a and 20b can be moved
separately from the top members.
[0230] Here, table assembly 670 is oriented and dimensioned such
that, as illustrated in FIG. 35, when the top members 672 and 674
are split, opposite corners thereof are adjacent edges of the off
axis displays 20c and 20d. When so positioned, breakout session
attendees adjacent display 20a can use both display 20a and off
axis display 20c to share information. Similarly, breakout session
attendees adjacent to display 20b can use both display 20b and
display 20d to facilitate a second breakout session.
[0231] While the split table configurations described above have
been described in the context of tables where table top members or
sections are symmetrical or identically shaped, at least some
embodiments of the present invention are contemplated where the
split top members or sections are not identically shaped. For
example, referring to FIGS. 36 and 37, another exemplary conference
configuration 850 is illustrated that includes a table assembly
having first and second split top members 852 and 854, first,
second and third display screens 20a, and 20b, and 20c,
respectively, and a plurality of conferencing chairs, two of which
are collectively identified by numeral 856. Here, when top members
852 and 854 are positioned together to facilitate a relatively
large conference, the combined outside edge of members 252 and 254
generally defines a triangle with rounded corners where straight
edge sections 858, 860 and 862 exist between each two adjacent
rounded corners. Member 852 includes first and second straight edge
sections 858 and 860 and a curved section 859 there between. Member
854 includes straight edge section 862 and rounded edge sections
861 and 863 to each end thereof. Members 852 and 854 also each
include long straight edge 864 and 866, respectively, where the
long straight edges are adjacent each other.
[0232] The first, second and third display screens 20a, 20b and 20c
are arranged adjacent straight edge sections 854, 860 and 862,
respectively. Here, it will be assumed that the displays (e.g.,
20a) are mounted to the straight edge sections via a brackets akin
to the bracket illustrated and described above with respect to FIG.
4.
[0233] Referring to FIG. 36, top members 852 and 854 can be
positioned as illustrated with their long straight edges 864 and
866 adjacent and aligned. To facilitate two breakout sessions, top
members 852 and 854 can be slid along a rail member (not
illustrated) there under in opposite directions until the
arrangement of FIG. 37 is achieved. In this case, displays 20a and
20b are used to facilitate one of the breakout sessions while
display 20c is used to facilitate the second breakout session.
[0234] While the split table type embodiments described above are
described in the context of configurations that include a
supporting rail below table top members that guides the table tops
along restricted trajectories, in at least some embodiments, it is
contemplated that other types of support structure may be provided
for split table tops to facilitate movement of table top members
and reconfiguration thereof. For example, referring now to FIGS. 38
through 40, an exemplary conference configuration 870 is
illustrated that includes four table assemblies, each assembly
including a top member 872, 874, 876 and 878 and support structure
there below, four flat panel display screens 20a, 20b, 20c, and 20d
and a plurality of chairs, two of which are collectively identified
by numeral 880.
[0235] Top members 872, 874, 876 and 878 and associated supporting
structure are substantially identical and therefore, in the
interests of finding an explanation, only top member 872 and its
supporting structure will described here in detail. Top member 872
has a generally triangular shape including three straight edge
sections 882, 884 and 886 and three rounded edge sections 888, 890
and 892. Straight edge sections 886 and 884 form a generally right
angle, straight edge sections 882 and 884 form an approximately
45.degree. angle and straight edge sections 882 and 886 also form
an approximately 45.degree. angle. Curved edge section 890 is
formed between straight edge sections 884 and 886, curved edge
section 888 is formed between straight edge sections 882 and 884
and curved edge section 892 is formed between straight edge
sections 882 and 886.
[0236] Referring to FIG. 39, top member 872 is supported by three
leg assemblies 894, 896 and 898 where each of the leg assemblies is
substantially identical. Leg assembly 894 includes a rigid
elongated leg member 900 having top and bottom ends where the top
end is rigidly mounted to an undersurface of member 872 and the
bottom end is mounted to a wheel or caster 902 to facilitate
movement.
[0237] A display 20a, 20b, 20c and 20d is mounted to the straight
edge section (e.g., 882) of each of top members 872, 874, 876 and
878, respectively, that is opposite the right angle formed by the
other two straight edge sections (e.g., 884 and 886) of the top
member. In this embodiment it will be assumed that the displays
(e.g., 20a) are mounted to the edges of the table top members
(e.g., 872) via brackets like the bracket illustrated in FIG. 4 and
described above.
[0238] In operation, table top members 872, 874, 876 and 878 may be
brought together as illustrated best in FIG. 38 with their right
angle corners coming together to generally form an octagon-type
shape where all of the displays 20a, 20b, 20c and 20d face a center
of the table configuration. Here, chairs 880 may be positioned
between the displays to accommodate conference attendees. Once
again, as in the case of the embodiments described above, attendees
about the table configuration can share information and have
generally unobstructed views of information presented via at least
one and in many cases two or more of the edge mounted displays.
[0239] To facilitate breakout sessions, table top members 272, 274,
276 and 278 may be moved about the conference space and
repositioned. One exemplary repositioning is illustrated in FIG. 40
where top members 872 and 874 remain together and displays 20a and
20b can be used to facilitate one breakout session, top member 876
and associated display 20c can be used to facilitate a second
breakout session and top member 878 and display 20d are moved to a
different location within the conference space to facilitate a
third breakout session.
[0240] Referring now to FIGS. 41 and 42, one additional exemplary
conference configuration 910 is illustrated that includes a
conference space 912 defined at least in part by oppositely facing
space defining walls 914 and 916, a table configuration including,
among other components first through fourth table top members 918,
920, 922 and 924, respectively, first through fourth displays 20a,
20b, 20c and 20d, respectively, and a plurality of conferencing
chairs, two of which are collectively identified by numeral 926. In
configuration 910, displays 20c and 20d are mounted on walls 914
and 916, respectively, so as to face in opposite directions.
[0241] Top members 918 and 922 have similar rectangular shapes,
each having two long edges and two short edges. Each of top members
920 and 924 is rhombus shaped having one short edge and one long
edge that is parallel to the short edge and two side edges. Here,
the short edges of each of rectangular members 918 and 922 is
approximately half the length of the long edge of each of rhombus
shaped top members 920 and 924. Thus, when the long edges of
rectangular members 918 and 922 are brought together, the combined
short edges thereof have a length approximately equal to the long
edge of each of rhombus shaped members 920 and 924.
[0242] Display 20a is mounted to the short edge of top member 924.
Similarly, display 20b is mounted to the short edge of top member
920. Here, it is assumed that displays 20a and 20b are mounted to
the edges of members 924 and 920 via brackets like the bracket
illustrated and described above with respect to FIG. 4.
[0243] Although not illustrated, in this embodiment is assumed that
rectangular top members 918 and 922 are mounted on top of leg
assemblies that include casters or wheels therebelow (see again
FIG. 39) so that members 918 and 922 can be moved within the
conference space 912. In at least some embodiments, rhombus shaped
members 920 and 924 may not be mounted for movement and instead may
have pedestal type supports therebelow that do not include wheels
or casters. In other embodiments, wheels or casters may be provided
at the bottoms of the support structures for members 920 and
924.
[0244] Referring still to FIGS. 41 and 42, rectangular top members
918 and 922 can be positioned between rhombus shaped members 920
and 924 to form a relatively large conference table assembly with
displays 20a and 20b at opposite ends thereof and facing each
other. Here, chairs 926 can be placed around top members 918, 920,
922 and 924 to facilitate a relatively large conference. In this
case, displays 20c and 20d are off axis to the conference table
assembly and can be used for off axis purposes.
[0245] To facilitate small breakout sessions, rectangular top
members 918 and 922 can be pulled apart and moved toward walls 914
and 916, respectively, until edges thereof are proximate off axis
displays 20c and 20d as best illustrated in FIG. 41. In this case,
each of the four table top members 918, 920, 922 and 924 can be
used separately to facilitate a breakout session and each can be
used with a different one of the display screens 20a, 20b, 20c and
20d.
[0246] According to one additional aspect of at least some
embodiments of the present invention, it has been recognized that a
single display can be mounted to supporting structure that allows
the display to be moved between at least first and second different
positions or orientations where the display is usable to present
information in either one of first or second different spaces that
are at least in part defined by a wall structure that forms an
opening between the first and second spaces. For example, referring
once again to FIG. 20 and also to FIGS. 43 and 44, in one exemplary
embodiment where an alcove space 444 is formed within an opening
611 formed by a wall 566 where the wall 566 at least in part forms
a larger conference space 560, first and second displays 20e and
20f may be mounted on opposite sides of the alcove space 444 via
arm supports 930 and 932. Here, it is contemplated that arm
supports 930 and 932 can support the associated displays 20e and
20f, respectively, in at least two different positions. In a first
position illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 43, displays 20e and 20f are
adjacent and generally parallel to wall 566 and are usable
generally within larger conference space 560. In the second
position, displays 20e and 20f are rotated via arms 930 and 932 and
moved into the positions generally indicated in phantom and labeled
20e' and 20f' in FIG. 20 (see also FIG. 44) where the displays face
into alcove space 444. Here, the arms 930 and 932 should be long
enough to allow the entire display screens to clear the alcove
corners so that the entire screen surfaces are observable from
within alcove space 444 upon proper positioning. In this position,
the displays 20e and 20f are generally usable by breakout attendees
in space 444 and are not usable by persons in the larger
conferencing space 560. In the alternative, display 20e may remain
against wall 566 while display 20f is moved into position to be
used by attendees in alcove 444 as illustrated in FIG. 44.
[0247] Although not illustrated, other support structures for
supporting displays for movement between two positions adjacent an
alcove space 444 is contemplated. For instance, each of displays
20e and 20f may be hingedly mounted along an edge adjacent alcove
space 444 for movement between the two positions illustrated in
FIG. 20. As another instance, a track or rail member (see FIG. 14)
may be mounted to ceiling structure where the rail member extends
along wall 566 and the displays 20e and 20f are mounted to the rail
structure to glide therealong and to rotate through at least
180.degree..
[0248] According to still one additional embodiment, a flat panel
display screen may be mounted to rails for movement through an
opening in a wall that defines first and second different spaces.
For example, in at least some embodiments, is contemplated that a
display screen may be usable both outside a conference room or
space to greet conference attendees as they arrive to attend a
conference and within the conferencing space to share information
among conference attendees.
[0249] One exemplary system consistent with the comments above is
illustrated in FIG. 45 which includes a display 20a mounted to
first and second rails 942 and 944 for movement between a first
space 938 and a second space 940 where an opening 934 is formed
within a wall 936 that divides the first and second spaces 938 and
940, respectively. In this example, it is assumed that first space
938 is a greeting space outside a conference space and that space
940 is the conference space within a conference room. Rails 942 and
944 are mounted to wall 946 that is perpendicular to dividing wall
936. Referring also to FIG. 46, top rail 942 is an elongated rigid
member having top and bottom channel forming edges 943 and 945.
Brackets 947 and 949 mount opposite ends of rail 942 to wall 946.
Bottom rail 944 forms an upwardly facing channel 949 having two
surfaces that slope downwardly toward each other at an
approximately 120.degree. angle. Rail 944 is mounted at opposite
ends to wall 946 via brackets 952 (only one shown in FIG. 46).
[0250] Referring still to FIGS. 45 and 46, a top glide assembly 955
includes a rigid extension member 957 that extends upward from a
central location of the top edge of display housing 32, at least
two axels 959 and 961 that extend laterally in the same direction
from member 957 and roller wheels 963 and 965 mounted to the axels
for rotation about horizontal axis (not labeled). Wheels 963 and
965 are spaced apart such that rail 942 is receivable
therebetween.
[0251] Here, while only two axels 959 and 961 and associated wheels
are illustrated in FIG. 46, embodiments are contemplated where four
or more axels and associated wheels are provided to provide
additional stability or, where two ore more top glide assemblies
955 are provided and spaced apart along the top surface of display
housing 32.
[0252] A bottom glide assembly 971 includes a rigid extension
member 973 that extends downward from a lower surface of display
housing 32, two axels 975 and 977 that extend generally in opposite
directions from member 973 where an approximately 120.degree. angle
is forme by axels 975 and 977 and two roller wheels 979 and 981
mounted to axels 975 and 977 for rotation about axis that form an
approximately 120.degree. angle.
[0253] Rails 942 and 944 are mounted to wall 946 such that display
20a and glide assemblies 955 and 971 are receivable generally
therebetween. More specifically, when wheels 979 and 981 are
received within channel 949, the space between upper wheels 963 and
965 is aligned with rail 942. Other display mounting configurations
are contemplated for supporting display 20a on rails for movement
between first and second spaces.
[0254] Referring again to FIG. 45, in a first position, display 20a
is located within greeting space 938 and can be used to greet
conference attendees as the attendees arrive to attend a conference
within space 940 and to provide information about the conference
that is to occur. After attendees have arrived and prior to the
conference within space 940 beginning, display 20a can be moved
along rails 942 and 944 through opening 934 and into conference
space 940 as illustrated in phantom in FIG. 45 and as labeled
20a'.
[0255] Referring now to FIGS. 47 and 48, another embodiment wherein
a screen is mounted to support structure for moving the screen
between two different spaces for use in the two separate spaces is
illustrated. Here, instead of mounting display 20a to rails for
movement between two spaces as described above with respect to
FIGS. 45 and 46, a display 20a is mounted to an inside surface of a
door 960. Door 960 is hingedly mounted for rotation between an open
position illustrated in FIG. 47 to a closed position illustrated in
FIG. 48 within an opening 954 formed by a dividing wall 952 which
divides a greeting space 960 from a conference space 964. Here,
with door 960 in the open position illustrated in FIG. 47, as
attendees arrive for a meeting, again the attendees can be greeted
via display 20a and can be provided information regarding the
conference about to take place. Once all of the attendees have
arrived for a conference, door 960 can be closed as illustrated in
FIG. 48 and information can then be presented via display 20a
within conference space 964.
[0256] Referring now to FIGS. 49 through 52, yet one additional
embodiment 970 wherein support structure for a display allows the
display to be used in two different spaces is illustrated. Here, a
wall 972 divides a first space 974 from a second space 976 and an
opening 978 is formed between the first and second spaces 974 and
976, respectively. Opening 970 is dimensioned to receive display
20a so that, when display 20a is aligned along wall 972, opening
978 is substantially closed.
[0257] Referring specifically to FIG. 52, in this embodiment, posts
980 and 982 extend upward and downward from the upper and lower
ends of the housing that comprises part of display 20a and are
received within pivot holes 993 and 997 or recesses formed by a
frame member 999 that is mounted in opening 978. When so mounted,
display 20a is rotatable about a substantially vertical support
axis 986 that passes through posts 980 and 982.
[0258] Referring still to FIGS. 49 through 52, in one orientation,
display 20a is positioned substantially parallel to wall 972 to
close opening 978 and with the display screen facing into first
space 974 for presenting information therein. When display 20a is
positioned as illustrated in FIG. 48, display 20a can be rotated
about support axis 986 (see again FIG. 51) and as illustrated in
FIG. 49 through approximately 180 degrees so that display 20a faces
into second space 976 for use within that space. Here, again, the
configuration illustrated in FIGS. 48 through 51 may advantageously
be used where the first and second spaces are a greeting space
outside a conference room and a conference space inside the
room.
[0259] While the invention may be susceptible to various
modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have been
shown by way of example in the drawings and have been described in
detail herein. However, it should be understood that the invention
is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed.
For example, while some display supporting rails are shown
supported by floorposts and other supported by posts extending down
from a ceiling structure, it should be appreciated that either
support structure and indeed other structures such as the tops of
book cases, etc., may be used to support the rail members. In
addition, some aspects described above are believed inventive
separate from other aspects. For instance, edge positioned displays
adjacent opposite table edges is believed inventive separate from
the split table concepts and vice versa.
[0260] Moreover, any of the tops described above could be split for
sliding movement along various dividing lines. For instance, in
FIG. 6, leaf shaped top 88 could be split along any of the three
phantom lines shown to provide a split table configuration with
additional advantages.
[0261] B. Workspace Dividing System Description
[0262] Referring to FIG. 53, an open-concept office meeting or
conference room 1010 includes a plurality of walls 1012, 1014,
1016. The walls 1012, 1014, 1016 break the general workspace into
an workspace 1018 and an area 1020 outside of the workspace 1018.
Extending horizontally from an interior wall of each wall 1012,
1014, 1016 is a bench or seat 1022, 1024, 1026, beneath which
extends a plurality of legs, generally designated 1028.
Accordingly, the plurality of legs 1028 supports the walls 1012,
1014, 1016 through the seats 1022, 1024, 1026. Extending from a top
portion of each wall 1012, 1014, 1016 are respective shields 1030,
1032, 1034, which are mirrored by similar shields 1036, 1038, 1040
that extend from a bottom of each wall 1012, 1014, 1016 under each
seat 1022, 1024, 1026 and into the workspace 1018.
[0263] Formed in each of the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 and extending
horizontally thereacross are a plurality of aligned slits 1042,
1044, 1046. The slits 1042, 1044, 1046 extend from the area 1020
outside of the workspace 1018 through the walls 1012, 1014, 1016
and into the workspace 1018. The slits 1042, 1044, 1046 are
positioned at a vertical height in the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 (for
example, at approximately four feet) designed to provide individual
seats within the workspace 1018 with a constant line of sight
through the slits 1042, 1044, 1046 and provide a view of the area
1020 outside of the workspace 1018 at both an immediate periphery
1050 about the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 as well as areas at a
distance 1052 from the walls 1012, 1014, 1016. According to one
embodiment, the slits 1042, 1044, 1046 have a vertical height of
greater than 1 inch but less than 4 inches. Furthermore, as will be
explained, the slits 1042, 1044, 1046 and walls 1012, 1014, 1016
include dimensions configured to provide individuals in the area
1020 outside of the workspace 1018 located at a distance 1052 from
the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 with a view into the workspace 1018, but
restrict individuals located at a close proximity 1050 to the walls
1012, 1014, 1016 from viewing the workspace 1018 so as to provide
those located in the workspace 1018 with visual privacy.
[0264] Similarly, the shields 1030, 1032, 1034 provide visual
privacy to individuals seated within the workspace 1018 by
restricting a line of sight 1054 from the area 1020 outside of the
workspace 1018 into the workspace 1018, even when an individual of
average height is standing in close proximity to the walls 1012,
1014, 1016. That is, while it is contemplated and, in some
applications even preferred, that the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 extend
above the legs 1028 to a total height of less than that of an
average individual's standing height (for example, between four and
five feet), as will be described with respect to FIGS. 55 and 58,
the dimensions and configuration of the shields 1030, 1032, 1034
restrict the line of sight 1054 from an individual of average
height attempting to view the workspace 1018. However, at this same
time, the overall height of the legs 1028, walls 1012, 1014, 1016,
and shields 1030, 1032, 1034 is such that a line of sight 1056
extending over the conference room 1010 is readily available to an
individual of average height. It should be noted that the
conference room 1010 includes a highly aesthetic appearance created
by multiple lines of symmetry included in the design. For example,
the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 include an arc or bow 1058 extending
vertically along the exterior surface of the walls 1012, 1014, 1016
where apex 1060 of the bow 1058 is located in a proximate midpoint
of the vertical rise of the walls 1012, 1014, 1016. Furthermore,
the shields 1030, 1032, 1024 extending vertically from the walls
1012, 1014, 1016 are mirrored by the return shields 1036, 1038,
1040 extending below each wall 1012, 1014, 1016.
[0265] As previously described, the vertically extending shields
1030, 1032, 1034 provide visual privacy to individuals seated
within the workspace 1018 and, as will be described, also provide
some auditory separation between the workspace 1018 and the area
1020 outside of the workspace 1018. On the other hand, the
downwardly extending return shields 1036, 1038, 1040 not only
mirror the vertically extending shields 1030, 1032, 1034 and
provide aesthetically appealing symmetry in the overall design of
the conference room 1010, but also allow for a reduced amount of
materials to be used in the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 while still
providing the feeling of being fully enclosed to individuals
located within the workspace 1018. In this regard, significant
manufacturing and materials cost savings can be realized over
traditional wall systems that include walls that extend completely
to the floor. That is, the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 are suspended
above the floor through a combination of the plurality of legs 1018
and the seats 1020, 1024, 1026, which together support the walls
1012, 1014, 1016.
[0266] Referring now to FIG. 54, a plan view of the meeting room
1010 further illustrates the symmetrical appearance formed by the
rounded design of the meeting room 1010. As also viewable from
above, in accordance with one embodiment, the seats 1022, 1024,
1026 extend beyond the shields 1030, 1032, 1034 such that the
majority of the workspace 1018 is not enclosed from above.
Furthermore, as will be described, the vertical and horizontal
extent of the shields 1030, 1032, 1034 is less than the horizontal
extent of the seats 1022, 1024, 1026. This design allows the walls
1012, 1014, 1016 to have a reduced height while still presenting
individuals located within the workspace 1018 with a feeling of
privacy from the area 1020 outside of the workspace 1018.
[0267] By arranging the seats 1022, 1024, 1026 against the walls
1012, 1014, 1016 (as opposed to arranging desks and other work
surfaces against a wall, as in traditional partitioned workspaces),
individuals seated in the workspace 1018 are focused toward a
common point 1062 located at the center of the workspace 1018 (as
opposed to being focused toward one of the walls). As such, the
meeting room 1010 inherently prepares individuals entering the
workspace 1018 for collaborative meetings. As will be described
below, additional display or communication devices can be
integrated into the meeting room 1010 in a manner so as to maintain
the collaborative focus of the meeting room 1010.
[0268] Referring now to FIG. 55a, a cross section of one of the
walls 1016 shows that extending up from the seat 1026 is a seat
back 1064. It should be noted that the seat back 1064 is displaced
from the wall 1016 such that a space 1066 is formed between the
seat back 1064 and the wall 1016. As shown in FIG. 56, this space
1066 may be filled with lighting or display elements 1068 designed
cast ambient light or projection displays onto the shield 1034
extending above the wall 1016. In this regard, the shield 1034 not
only serves as a visual shield but also a projection surface on
which to display and review materials to be discussed within the
meeting room 1010. Furthermore, by projecting from various points
around the meeting room 1010, the visual shield 1034 becomes an
active surface that is integrated into the meeting room 1010. In
this regard, individuals seated within the workspace 1018 can
easily view and review materials displayed on the shield 1034
without being forced to turn substantially from the common focus
point 1062 of FIG. 54. Accordingly, the meeting room 1010 further
facilitates open and continuous meetings and conversations between
individuals within the workspace 1018.
[0269] Referring again to FIG. 55a, as discussed above, the slit
1046 and wall 1016 include dimensions configured to provide
individuals in the area 1020 outside of the workspace 1018 located
at a distance 1052 from the wall 1016 with a view into the
workspace 1018, but restrict individuals located at a close
proximity 1050 to the wall 1016 from viewing the workspace 1018. In
this regard, the wall 1016 and the shield 1034 work in concert to
provide visual privacy to individuals located in the workspace
1018. That is, by including the shields 1030, 1032, 1034, the walls
1012, 1014, 1016 may have a height of less than 4 1/2 feet and,
when a visual shield having a vertical rise of less than 2 1/2 feet
is arranged to extend therefrom, the privacy provided by the
combined configuration is greater than a structure having a height
of 7 feet because the horizontal run of the shields 1030, 1032,
1034 extending into the workspace 1018 blocks visual lines
originating above a height of, for example, 7 feet.
[0270] While these dimensions are exemplary for particular
embodiments, it is contemplated that other arrangements may
facilitate reduced heights while still providing the
above-described privacy features. For example, referring now to
FIG. 55b, the features discussed above can be extended to a more
generalized wall system by removing the seat 1026 and seat back
1064 described with respect to FIG. 55a. According to this
arrangement, an individual may be seated so as to face the wall
1016. In this regard, the overall height of the wall 1016 and
shield 1034 may be reduced while still providing the individual
seated in the workspace 1018 and proximate to the wall 1016 with
the privacy from individuals located in the area outside 1020 of
the workspace 1018 at a distance from the wall 1016. Furthermore,
even with reduced dimensions, sight lines 1071 are available to the
individual located in the workspace 1018 so that a view of the area
outside 1020 of the workspace 1018 is provided to the individual
located in the workspace while an individual located in an area
1050 near the wall 1016 cannot see into the workspace 1018. That
is, since the individual can be seated proximate to and facing the
wall 1016, a consistent view of areas proximate to 1050 as well as
at a distance from 1052 the wall 1016 is available. On the other
hand, even when the heights of the wall 1016 and shield 1024 are
reduced, only individuals located at a distance 1052 from the wall
1016 can see through the slit 1046.
[0271] Referring again to FIG. 55a, not only does the shield 1034
form a visual barrier to provide privacy and intimacy to
individuals located within the workspace 1018, though secondary in
nature, the shield 1034 also acts as an acoustic barrier between
individuals in the area 1020 outside of the workspace 1018 and
individuals located in the workspace 1018. In fact, due to the
vertical rise and horizontal run of the shield 1034 above the wall
1016 and into the workspace 1018, the shield also serves to focus
sounds produced within the workspace 1018 toward the central point
1062 of FIG. 54 as well as to deflect sounds produced within the
area 1020 outside of the workspace 1018 from interfering with
conversations held within the workspace 1018.
[0272] The seat 1026 and wall 1016 extending therefrom are
supported by the leg 1028 positioned inwardly of the return shield
1040. It is contemplated that one wall 1016 and associated seat
1026 may be supported by as few as one leg 1028. In this regard,
one wall 1016, seat 1026, and leg 1028 will be unable to be
self-supporting in the upright position. However, when combined
with one or more additional walls 1012, 1014, such as shown in FIG.
54, the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 are readily capable of remaining
upright.
[0273] Alternatively, each wall 1012, 1014, 1016 and respective
seats 1022, 1024, 1026 may be supported by additional legs 1070 (as
shown in phantom). In this regard, as shown in FIG. 57, the legs
1028, 1070 may be staggered so that each individual wall 1012,
1014, 1016 is capable of self support and, when combined with other
wall segments, the overall meeting room 1010 is made further
robust.
[0274] Referring now to FIG. 58, it is contemplated that the walls
1012, 1014, 1016 may be joined in a variety of different ways. For
example, adjacent seats 1024, 1026 may be joined by way of bolts
1072 or similar fasteners. Furthermore, exterior walls 74 of
adjacent walls 1014, 1016 may be joined by heating the walls 1014,
1016 until the exteriors 74 become malleable and then smoothed to
remove the appearance of any junction 76 between the walls 1014,
1016. Accordingly, the symmetric appearance of the meeting room
1010 is further increased since, when viewed from the area 1020
outside of the workspace 1018, the walls 1012, 1014, 1016 appear as
one continuous rounded plane.
[0275] In particular, it is contemplated that the exteriors 1074 of
the walls may be formed from methyl methacrylate resin or similar
substances that become malleable when exposed to a given duration
of heating. Accordingly, in a manner similar to techniques used for
creating a continuous countertop using methyl methacrylate resin or
other substances such as Corian, seams between adjoining sections
can be removed. Corian is a registered trademark of Du Pont De
Nemours and Co. Corp. of Delaware.
[0276] Referring now to FIG. 59, a composite construction element
1077 for use in constructing a wall system includes an interior
formed from a rigid, self-supporting material, for example sheet
metal 1078, is surrounded by a soft padding, for example felt 1080.
The composite construction element 1077 may be utilized to for a
variety of components of traditional wall systems as well as the
meeting room or similar open-concept structures described above.
For example, the composite construction element 1077, by including
a rigid interior formed, for example, of sheet metal 1078, is
self-supporting. Accordingly, the composite construction element
may be used to create the shields 1030, 1032, 1034, 1036, 1038,
1040 (FIG. 53). In this regard, the felt linings 1080 provide
additional sound insulation. Similarly, the composite construction
element 1077 may be used to line an interior of the walls 1012,
1014, 1016.
[0277] Referring now to FIG. 61, the composite construction element
1077 may be used to form an insert 1082 engaged with or skin 1084
formed over a traditional wall 1086. Furthermore, the composite
construction element 1077 may be used to form various visual
shields 1088 or the like that are designed to extend from the
traditional wall 1086.
[0278] Referring now to FIGS. 60-62, it is contemplated that any of
the features or designs described above may be incorporated into
various wall designs including traditional walls (such as described
with respect to FIG. 60) and may be utilized to create a meeting
room having any of a wide variety of shapes and sizes without
deviating from the spirit of the invention. For example, as shown
in FIG. 61, a slit 1090, as described above with respect to FIGS.
53-58, may be incorporated into the traditional wall 1086.
Similarly, leg structures, benches, and the like may also be
incorporated into the traditional wall 1086.
[0279] In this regard, any of the features described above may be
incorporated into a wall system that is designed to form a meeting
room of virtually any size or shape. For example, as shown in FIG.
61, a meeting room 1092 having a hexagonal shape may be formed.
Similarly, as shown in FIG. 62, a meeting room 1094 having a
rectangular shape may be formed. In this regard, a meeting room may
be formed in virtually any shape, for example, a trapezoid, a
pentagon, a hexagon, a heptagon, an octagon, and the like. That is,
the shape of the meeting room does not limit the ability to
incorporate the above-described features such as a slit, visual
privacy shield, display elements, and the like.
[0280] C. Additional Embodiments
[0281] Referring now to FIGS. 63 and 64, another exemplary
conferencing configuration 1100 is illustrated that includes first
and second conferencing sub-assemblies 1102 and 1104, respectively,
and a conferencing table 1101. Each of the conferencing
sub-assemblies 1102 and 1104 is similarly constructed and operates
in a similar fashion and therefore, in the interest of simplifying
this explanation, only sub-assembly 1102 will be described here in
detail where components that are similar among the sub-assemblies
1102 and 1104 are labeled with similar numbers followed by either
the letter "a" or "b". Thus, for instance, a seating assembly that
comprises part of sub-assembly 1102 is labeled 1110a while a
similar sealing assembly that comprises part of sub-assembly 1104
is labeled 1110b.
[0282] Conferencing sub-assembly 1102 includes, among other things,
a seat or seating sub-assembly 1110a and a display screen
sub-assembly or structure 1106a. Seating sub-assembly 1110a
includes a generally arcuate sofa structure including a seat 1171
and a back support 1173, a wall structure 1112a, a rear counter
structure 1114a and a plurality of display screens, two of which
are identified by numerals 1116a and 1118a. Wall structure 1112a
extends upwardly behind back support 1173 and has oppositely facing
interior and exterior surfaces 1127a and 1129a, respectively.
Interior surface 1127a faces in the same direction as back support
1173. The wall structure 1120a has a height dimension H1 from a
supporting floor surface (not labeled) that is between 4 and 7 feet
tall. The wall height depends upon the purpose to be served by the
conferencing system 1100 as a whole. Where a sense of privacy is
deemed particularly important, wall structure 1112a would be
designed to have a greater height (e.g., 7 feet) and where privacy
is deemed less important the height would be closer to four feet.
In the illustrated embodiment interior surface 1127a of wall
structure 1112a forms back support 1173. In other embodiment,
although not illustrated, back support 1173 may be provided by a
structure separate from wall member 1112a.
[0283] Referring still to FIGS. 63 and 64, in the illustrated
embodiment 1100, first and second display screens 1116a and 1110a
are mounted on the interior surface 1127a of wall structure or
member 1112a so that the surfaces of the display screens facing the
same direction as back support 1173. In FIG. 63, the displays 1116a
and 1118a are flat panel displays while in FIG. 64 the displays are
shown as curved displays where the displays have a radius and
curvature similar to that of arcuate wall member 1112a. The
displays 1116a and 1118a are mounted above back support 1173.
[0284] Counter structure or member 1114a extends from the exterior
surface 1129a of wall member 1112a at a typical countertop height.
To this end, the height of the top surface formed by counter member
1114a may be between 30 and 45 inches and, in at least some
embodiments, will be approximately 42 inches. In the illustrated
embodiment, counter member 1114a extends along the entire length of
wall member 1112a. In at least some embodiments, counter member
1114a will have a depth dimension (not labeled) between 12 inches
and 36 inches and, in at least some embodiments, the depth
dimension will be between 20 and 24 inches.
[0285] Referring yet again to FIGS. 63 and 64, a control panel
1105a is provided within an arm rest (not labeled) associated with
seating sub-assembly 1110a. Here, the control panel 1105a may
include control buttons or a touch sensitive flat panel display for
controlling the information presented on displays 1116a and 1118a
as well as other displays included as part of sub-assembly 1104
(e.g., displays 1116b and 1118b (see specifically FIG. 64)) and
displays associated with display screen structures 1111a and
1111b.
[0286] Display screen structure 1106a includes a panel member 1141a
and a flat panel display 1103a. Panel 1141a is a rectilinear and
rigid panel member that includes first and second side edges 1111a
and 1115a, respectively, and that extends from a supporting floor
structure (not labeled) to a top end 1143a and has an interior
surface 1145a and an oppositely facing exterior surface (not
labeled). Interior surface 1145a forms a rectilinear opening (not
labeled) for receiving flat panel display screen 1103a. In other
embodiments the display screen 1103a may be mounted to interior
surface 1145a. In at least some embodiments the width (e.g., the
dimension between the side edges 1111a and 1115a) may be between 20
inches and 48 inches. In at least some embodiments, the width of
panel member 1141a is approximately 30 inches. The height dimension
(not labeled) of panel member 1141a may be between 4 and 7 feet,
depending upon how much privacy is desired for a conferencing space
delineated by system 1100.
[0287] Referring again to FIG. 63, the seat or sub-assembly 1110a
extends between first and second ends 1113a and 1122a. Similarly,
the second seat 1110b extends between first and second ends 1113b
and 1122b, respectively. Display structure 1141a is positioned with
respect to the first seating arrangement 1110a such that a first
edge 1115a thereof is adjacent the first end 1113a of seating
arrangement 1110a with the first edge 1115a located adjacent a
front surface of back support 1173. Display structure 1106b is
similarly arranged with respect to the second seating arrangement
1110b.
[0288] Referring again to FIGS. 63 and 64, while each of the
sub-assembly 1102 and 1104 may be separately used, in at lease some
embodiments it is contemplated that the first and second assemblies
1102 and 1104 will be used together to delineate a conferencing
space 1191 therebetween as shown. To this end, in at least some
embodiments, sub-assembly 1104 may be juxtaposed directly opposite
sub-assembly 1102 with the second edge 1111a of the display
structure 1141a space apart from the second end 1122b of the
seating arrangement 1110b and the second edge 1111b of display
structure 1106b spaced apart from the second end 1122a of seating
sub-assembly 1110a. Here, a first ingress/egress 1131 is formed
between display sub-assembly 1141a and seating assembly 1110b while
a second ingress/egress 1133 is formed between display sub-assembly
1106b and seating assembly 1110a as shown. Table 1101 may be
positioned between sub-assemblies 1102 and 1104 as shown.
[0289] Referring to FIG. 64, with the sub-assemblies 1102 and 1104
arranged as shown, when persons use conferencing space 1191, users
have unobstructed and comfortable viewing lanes for looking at each
of the other conference attendees and also have unobstructed
viewing lanes to multiple display screens associated with assembly
1100 so that, while an attendee is addressing other attendees
within the conferencing space, the attendees can easily view
information being presented without having to physically direct
their attention at another location to view information being
presented.
[0290] Referring now to FIG. 65, another exemplary conferencing
assembly 1150 is illustrated that is similar to system 1100
described above with respect to FIGS. 63 and 64. In this regard,
the primary difference between assembly 1150 and assembly 1100 is
that the seating sub-assemblies 1152 and 1154 in assembly 1150
includes relatively shorter wall members or back support structures
where countertop members 1160 and 1161 are positioned at the top
ends of the wall or back support structures. Each of the countertop
members 1160 and 1161 are similarly constructed and operate in a
similar fashion and therefore only countertop member 1160 is
described here in detail. Member 1160, as shown, is arcuate and
extends along the entire length of seating arrangement 1152 and
extends rearward therefrom. Member 1160 may be between 12 and 48
inches and preferably is between 20 and 22 inches in depth. Using
system 1150, some conference attendees may be located within the
space delineated by assemblies 1152 and 1154 while other conference
attendees may be positioned outside the delineated space adjacent
countertop members 1160 and 1161 where they can peer into the
conferencing space.
[0291] Referring now to FIG. 66, another exemplary system 1170 is
shown that is similar to the system 1100 of FIGS. 63 and 64. Most
of the components that make up system 1170 are similar to the
components described above with respect to FIGS. 63 and 64 and
therefore will not be described again here in detail. Components
that are similar between the two embodiments are shown in FIG. 66
with labels that are identical to those in FIGS. 63 and 64. The
primary difference between the system of FIG. 66 and system 1100 of
FIGS. 63 and 64 is that the arcuate wall members 1112a and 1112b
extend past the ends of associated seating arrangements 1110a and
1110b opposite the display structures 1106a and 1106b. The extended
wall member portions are identified by numerals 1180a and 1180b,
respectively. Here, additional privacy is afforded to the space
delineated by the conferencing sub-assemblies 1102 and 1104 as
there is no direct line of sight from the space outside the
conferencing system 1170 to the space delineated by the
sub-assemblies 1102 and 1104. An ingress/egress path 1190 is shown
between a distal edge 1111a of display structure 1106a and an
internal surface 1186b of the wall extension portion 1180b.
Similarly, a second ingress/egress 1192 is shown passing between
the distal edge 1111b of display structure 1106b and an internal
surface 1186a of wall extension portion 1180a.
[0292] Referring now to FIGS. 67 through 71, an exemplary
conferencing assembly 1200 is shown that includes an arch
sub-assembly 1202, first and second closure sub-assemblies 1204 and
1206, a table 1208 and a plurality of chairs or seats collectively
identified by numeral 1240 in some of the figures. Arch
sub-assembly 1202 includes one or more supports or support members
that are located adjacent a workspace that includes egresses along
various sides. In the illustrated embodiment, the arch sub-assembly
includes first and second vertical support walls or panels 1214 and
1216, respectively, that are separated by a workspace therebetween
and a horizontal ceiling member 1210 that traverses the distance
between the top ends of the vertical wall members 1214 and 1216. In
the illustrated embodiment each of member 1214 and 1216 and ceiling
member 1210 is rectilinear in shape although other shapes are
contemplated. Each of the vertical wall members 1214 and 1216
includes an internal surface 1215, 1217, respectively, where the
internal surfaces face each other. In at least some embodiments,
flat panel display screens 1220, 1221 may be mounted to or mounted
within or formed integrally with the internal surfaces 1215 and
1217. First and second egresses 1364 and 1371 into the workspace
are defined by the openings to the sides of the arch structure 1202
(see FIG. 68).
[0293] Referring still to FIGS. 67 through 71, table assembly 1208
includes a rectilinear table top 1232 that, in the illustrated
embodiment, is rectilinear and is dimensioned so that it fits
within the work space between internal surfaces 1215 and 1217.
[0294] Above the display screens 1220 and 1221, pivot recesses are
formed for receiving pivot posts that comprise parts of the closure
sub-assemblies 1204 and 1206. In FIG. 70, oppositely facing pivot
recesses are identified by numerals 1223 and 1225. Each vertical
wall member 1214 and 1216 forms two pivot recesses, one for each of
closure sub-assemblies 1204 and 1206. The pivot recesses include
pairs of recesses that are aligned along horizontal pivot axis (see
1391 and 1393 in FIG. 67). For instance, recesses 1233 and 1225 in
FIG. 70 are aligned along horizontal axis 1393.
[0295] Referring still to FIGS. 67 through 71, each of the first
and second closure sub-assemblies 1204 and 1206 is similarly
constructed and operates in a similar fashion and therefore, in the
interest of simplifying the explanation, only sub-assembly 1206
will be described here in detail. Sub-assembly 1206 includes a hood
member 1269 and first and second pivot posts 1258 and 129,
respectively. Hood member 1269 includes first and second rigid
rectilinear closure members 1224 and 1222, respectively. First
closure member 1224 is a rigid rectilinear member that includes
oppositely facing first and second long edges 1261 and 1263,
respectively, and first and second oppositely facing short edges
1267 and 1269, respectively. A width dimension W1 is formed along
each of the long edges 1261 and 1263. Second closure member 1222 is
a rigid rectilinear member having oppositely facing long edges (not
labeled) and oppositely facing short edges 1226 and 1228. First
closure member 1224 is integrally formed with or securely connected
to second closure member 1222 along mating long edges thereof and
forms an obtuse angle .alpha. (e.g., between 110and 150 degrees)
with the second closure member 1222.
[0296] Referring still to FIGS. 67 through 71, about half way along
each short edge 1226 and 1228 of second closure member 1222, a
pivot post (e.g., 1258, 1229) extends laterally outward. The posts
1258 and 1229 are positioned along a single pivot axis. As best
seen in FIGS. 70 and 71, the width dimension W1 of the hood member
1269, the length dimensions of posts 1229 and 1258 and the space
defined by the internal surfaces 1215 and 1217 of members 1216 and
1214, respectively, are such that subassembly 1206 can be mounted
between members 1214 and 1216 with posts 1258 and 1229 extending
into post recesses 1223 and 1225. Once sub-assembly 1269 is mounted
between wall members 1214 and 1216, the hood member 1206 can be
moved between a first position shown in FIGS. 67, 68 and 70 and a
second position shown in FIGS. 69 and 71. Although not shown, it is
contemplated that some mechanical mechanism may be provided to
limit movement of hood member 1269 between the first and second
positions and/or to maintain the hood member 1269 in one of the two
positions or in intermediate positions between the first and second
positions.
[0297] Referring once again to FIGS. 68 and 69, closure members
1224 and 1222 form internal or interior surfaces 1248 and 1256 that
face the workspace or conferencing space at all times. In at least
some embodiments, flat panel display screens may be mounted to, or
integrally formed within, the internal surfaces 1246 and 1256.
Exemplary flat panel display screens 1250 and 1251 are shown in
phantom in FIGS. 68 and 69.
[0298] Referring yet again to FIGS. 67 through 71, in operation,
when closure sub-assemblies 1204 and 1206 are in the first position
as shown in FIGS. 67, 68 and 70, a person can easily approach the
work space defined by arch sub-assembly 1202 by walking through
either one of the egresses 1369, 1371 below the closure
sub-assemblies 1204 and 1206. Once one or more people are within
the space defined by arch sub-assembly 1202 or within the space
between closure sub-assemblies 1204 and 1206, the sub-assemblies
1204 and 1206 can be pivoted or rotated downwardly to the second
position shown in FIGS. 69 and 71 to thereby somewhat enclose the
work space under arch sub-assembly 1202 and restrict or hinder
movement through egresses 1369 and 1371 below the first closure
members (e.g., the space restricted by first closure member 1224).
In addition, when the closure sub-assemblies 1204 and 1206 are in
the second positions, persons located within the work space can
share information via any of the display screens associated
therewith including display screens 1220, 1221, 1250 and 1251 and
have an enhanced sense of privacy.
[0299] Referring now to FIGS. 72 though 73, yet another
conferencing sub-assembly 1270 is shown that has many components
that are similar or identical to the components described above
with respect to system 1200 in FIGS. 67 through 71. The primary
difference between system 1270 and system 1200 is that each of the
closure sub-assemblies 1204 and 1206 in system 1270 includes two
hood assemblies 1282 and 1284 instead of a single hood assembly
1269. As shown, each of the hood assemblies 1282 and 1284 are
similarly constructed and operate in a similar fashion to hood
assembly 1269 in FIG. 67, the only difference being that a width
dimension W2 of each of the hood assemblies 1282 and 1284 is
approximately half width W1 of hood assembly 1269. Thus, in system
1270, one of the hood sub-assemblies 1284 may be moved into the
second egress restricting position as shown in FIGS. 72 and 73
while the other hood assembly 1282 remains in a substantially
horizontal first position. Here it is contemplated that each of the
four hood subassemblies could be independently positionable.
[0300] Referring now to FIGS. 74 through 78, one additional
conferencing system 1290 is shown that is similar to the system
1200 described above with respect to FIGS. 67 through 71. The
primary differences between system 1290 and system 1200 are that
(1) instead of forming post recesses, each of the vertical wall
member 1214 and 1216 forms a substantially horizontal track (e.g.,
see 1310 in FIGS. 76 through 78) that is open on one end 1312 and
closed at the other end 1314 (see FIG. 78), (2) the system 1290
only includes a single hood sub-assembly 1294 and (3) the hood
sub-assembly 1294 includes roller pairs instead of pivot pins, one
of the roller pairs identified by numerals 1316 and 1318 in FIGS.
76 through 78.
[0301] Referring to FIGS. 76 through 78, each of the tracks 1310 is
dimensioned so as to receive an associated roller pair 1316, 1318.
In at least some embodiments, a track stop 1313 is provided along
each of the tracks a short distance away from the open end (e.g.,
1312) thereof. This stop 1313 is positioned so that it blocks
movement of associated roller 1316 when hood sub-assembly 1294 is
in a first false ceiling position as shown in FIGS. 74, 75 and 76
and so that it also blocks movement of roller 1318 out of channel
1310 when the hood sub-assembly 1294 is moved toward a second
egress restricting position along the direction indicated by arrow
1320 and when the sub-assembly 1294 is rotated down into the egress
restricting position along the direction indicated by arrow 1322 as
shown in FIG. 78.
[0302] In operation, with both of the rollers 1316 and 1318 of each
of the roller pairs (e.g., one pair mounted to each lateral edge of
hood member 1294) received within an associated track 1310, hood
sub-assembly 1294 is supported in the first false ceiling position.
To move the hood member 1294 into the egress restricting position,
sub-assembly 1294 is slid along the direction indicated by arrow
1320 in FIG. 77 until rollers 1318 contact stop 1313 after which
sub-assembly 1294 is rotated along the direction indicated by arrow
1322 in FIG. 78 until rollers 1316 contact the rear surfaces formed
by vertical wall members 1214 and 1216.
[0303] Refer now to FIG. 79, another exemplary conferencing system
1330 which is similar to the system 1200 described above with
respect to FIG. 67 through 71 is shown. Here, the primary
difference between system 1330 and system 1200 is that system 1330
includes a vertical support structure including vertical support
walls 1214 and 1216 that are not linked by a horizontal top arch
member 1210. In this system 1330, closure subassemblies 1204 and
1206 operate in a fashion similar to that described above with
respect to FIG. 67 and 71 and therefore operation thereof is not
described here again in detail.
[0304] Referring now to FIG. 80, another conferencing system 1350
is shown which is similar to the conferencing system shown in FIG.
79, albeit where the wall members 1214 and 1216 have been replaced
by post and beam structures 1352 and 1354, respectively. Here, flat
panel displays 1362 and 1364 are mounted to the post and beam
structures 1352 and 1354 so as to be oppositely facing. In this
case, closure subassemblies 1204 and 1206 operate in a fashion
similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 67-71 to move
between first and second positions by pivoting about first and
second horizontal pivot axis 1361 and 1363, respectively.
[0305] Referring now to FIG. 81, another system 1360 is shown that
is similar to the system 1350 shown in FIG. 80, albeit where a
table is replaced by a lounge type sitting arrangement below the
closure subassemblies 1204 and 1206. In FIG. 81, the lounge
arrangement includes four lounge chairs collectively identified by
numeral 1365 and a central table 1367 there between. Here again,
the closure subassemblies 1204 and 1206 operate in a fashion
similar to that described above with respect to FIG. 67-69 to move
between first and second positions to act as a false ceiling and
act to enclose or restrict movement into the space there below,
respectively.
[0306] Refer now to FIG. 82, one additional conferencing system
1370 is shown that includes first and second panel or wall or
display structures or members 1379 and 1381, a cross beam structure
1384 and a plurality of lounge chairs collectively identified by
numeral 1374. The wall structures 1379 and 1381 are similarly
constructed and operate in a similar fashion and therefore, in the
interest of simplifying this explanation, only structure 1381 will
be described here in detail. Structure 1381 includes a rigid
rectilinear frame subassembly 1378 and a panel 1380 mounted within
the frame structure 1378. Panel 1380 includes an interior surface
1376 and an exterior surface (not labeled) that faces in a
direction opposite the interior surface 1376. A flat panel
electronic display 1382 is mounted onto or within the internal
surface 1376.
[0307] Referring still to FIG. 82, wall structures 1379 and 1381
are spaced apart on opposite sides of the conferencing or work
space 1383 and are arranged so that the display screens (e.g.,
1382) face each other on opposite sides of the space 1383). In the
illustrated example, wall structures 1379 and 1381 are off-set and
beam structure 1384 traverses the distance between the wall
structure frame assemblies (e.g., 1378). In the illustrated
configuration, lounge chairs 1374 are arranged generally within the
space between wall structures 1379 and 1381.
[0308] Referring now to FIG. 83, another system 1390 which is
similar to the system 1360 shown in FIG. 81 is illustrated. The
primary difference between system 1390 and system 1360 of FIG. 81
is that system 1390 only includes a single vertical support
structure in the form of post and beam structure 1354 and a single
flat panel display 1364 mounted to structure 1354. Here, as in the
embodiment of FIG. 67-71, it is contemplated that closure
subassemblies 1204 and 1206 may rotate about posts that are linked
to post and beam structure 1354 between first and second positions
(see again FIGS. 68 and 69).
[0309] Referring now to FIGS. 84 and 85, one additional
conferencing embodiment 1410 is illustrated, which is similar to
the embodiment described above with respect to FIGS. 67-71. The
primary differences between system 1410 and system 1200 (see again
FIGS. 67-71) are that system 1410 includes a stationary false
ceiling member or structure 1422 and differently configured closure
subassemblies 1412 and 1426. While differently configured closure
subassemblies 1410 and 1426 are shown in FIGS. 84 and 85, it should
be appreciated that, in most cases, both of the closure
subassemblies that are included in a system 1410 will be of the
same type (e.g., either of the type labeled 1412 or of the type
labeled 1426).
[0310] Referring still to FIGS. 84 and 85, arch structure
subassembly 1202 includes a horizontal top member 1210 that, as in
FIG. 67, traverses the distance between first and second vertical
side members 1214 and 1216 (only member 1214 shown in FIGS. 84-85).
Horizontal member 1210 has a bottom surface 1440. False ceiling
member 1422 is mounted between the side wall members 1214 and 1216
and is spaced below bottom surface 1410 so as to form a space 1450
therewith.
[0311] Referring still to FIGS. 84 and 85, closure subassembly 1412
is a rigid member that includes a straight portion 1452 and a
curved portion 1453 where the curved portion 1453 includes an
internal surface 1430. Pivot posts (e.g., 1428) extend from
opposite side edges of the straight portion 1452 proximate an end
thereof and are received within post recesses (e.g., see 1223 and
1225 in FIG. 70) formed by the side walls 1214 and 1216 of arch
subassembly 1202. The curved portion 1453 curves such that it's
opposite ends extend along trajectories that are separated by
approximately 90 degrees. When subassembly 1412 is mounted to arch
subassembly 1202, subassembly 1412 can be moved between first and
second positions. The first position, a storage position, is shown
in FIG. 85 where the straight portion 1452 is angled upward and the
curved portion 1453 generally resides at a height above false
ceiling member 1422. In the second position shown in FIG. 84,
subassembly 1412 is rotated downward about the axis formed by the
pivot post 1428 so that straight portion 1452 is substantially
horizontal and curved portion 1453 extends downward. As shown, flat
panel display screen 1432 may be mounted to the internal surface
1430 of curved portion 1453 so that, when subassembly 1412 is in
the second position, the flat panel display 1432 can be observed
from within the meeting space defined by the system 1410.
[0312] Referring still to FIGS. 84 and 85, subassembly 1426 is
constructed in a fashion similar to that of subassembly 1412,
except that, subassembly 1426 includes two straight portions 1411
and 1413 that form an angle slightly greater than 90 degrees. A
flat panel display screen 1436 may be mounted to or integrally
formed with an internal surface 1434 of straight portion 1413 as
shown. Subassembly 1426 is mounted by posts 1433 for pivotal
rotation about an axis that passes through space 1450 as shown.
Again, in operation, subassembly 1426 can be moved between a first
position shown in FIG. 85 where an egress there below into the work
space delineated by system 1410 is open in a second position shown
in FIG. 84 where the egress there below into the space defined by
system 1410 is restricted or substantially blocked.
[0313] Referring to FIG. 86, another conferencing configuration
1500 similar to the configuration shown in FIG. 64 is illustrated
in a top plan view and includes two seating arrangements 1102 and
1104. The primary difference between arrangement 1100 and
arrangement 1500 is that the display screens 1502 and 1504 in
embodiment 1500 are angled so that, while they are generally
opposed (i.e., face generally in opposite directions), the displays
1502 and 1504 are skewed somewhat so that they do not directly
oppose each other (e.g., see optimal viewing areas 1506 and 1508
corresponding to displays 1502 and 1504 in FIG. 86, respectively).
To illustrate the different display juxtapositions displays 1106
and 1108 of assembly 1100 from FIG. 64 are shown in phantom in FIG.
86.
[0314] In at least some embodiments the display screen 1502 and
1504 may be moveably positioned adjacent the arrangements 1102 and
1104 so that they can be moved to instantaneously optimal positions
with respect to the arrangements 1502 and 1504. For instance,
although not shown, in at least some cases display 1502 may be
hingedly linked to arrangement 1102 for movement between the
phantom position shown at 1106 and position 1502 or display 1502
may be mounted on a wheeled cart for movement between different
positions.
[0315] Opposing and skewed display arrangements are contemplated in
other conferencing configurations. For instance, referring to FIG.
87, another conferencing configuration 1600 is illustrated that is
similar to the conferencing configuration 1360 of FIG. 81. The
primary differences between configurations 1600 and 1360 are the
display sizes and the display juxtapositions. While the displays
1362 and 1364 in configuration 1360 are directly opposed, in
configuration 1600 the displays 1602 and 1604 are mounted to posts
1606 and 1608 so as to face in opposite directions but the displays
are skewed so that they do not directly face each other. In
addition, displays 1602 and 1604 have relatively longer height
dimensions than displays 1362 and 1364 so that displays 1602 and
1604 provide a greater sense of privacy to occupants of the
configuration 1600.
[0316] The invention is to cover all modifications, equivalents,
and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the
invention as defined by the following appended claims. To apprise
the public of the scope of this invention, the following claims are
made:
* * * * *