U.S. patent application number 11/412969 was filed with the patent office on 2007-11-01 for table and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to Steelcase Development Corporation. Invention is credited to John R. Hamilton, James N. Ludwig, Karl J. Mead.
Application Number | 20070251428 11/412969 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38647117 |
Filed Date | 2007-11-01 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070251428 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mead; Karl J. ; et
al. |
November 1, 2007 |
Table and method
Abstract
A table for offices and the like includes an elongate center
beam and two center posts having lower ends abuttingly supported on
a floor surface and upper ends connected with opposite ends of the
center beam. Two outrigger beams are positioned on opposite sides
of the center beam in a generally mutually perpendicular
relationship therewith, and have inner ends connected with one of
the center posts. Two outrigger posts are positioned on opposite
sides of the center beam, and have lower ends thereof abutting the
floor surface and upper ends connected with the outside ends of the
outrigger beams to stabilize the table. Two elongate worksurfaces
are positioned along opposite sides of the center beam and have a
length generally commensurate with the same. The worksurfaces have
inside edges connected with and at least partially supported by the
center beam, end segments abutting and at least partially supported
by the upper ends of the outrigger posts, and outside edges which
protrude outwardly from the outrigger posts in a cantilevered
fashion and extend freely therealong to permit unencumbered access
to the worksurfaces.
Inventors: |
Mead; Karl J.; (East Grand
Rapids, MI) ; Hamilton; John R.; (Grand Rapids,
MI) ; Ludwig; James N.; (East Grand Rapids,
MI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PRICE HENEVELD COOPER DEWITT & LITTON, LLP
695 KENMOOR, S.E.
P O BOX 2567
GRAND RAPIDS
MI
49501
US
|
Assignee: |
Steelcase Development
Corporation
|
Family ID: |
38647117 |
Appl. No.: |
11/412969 |
Filed: |
April 27, 2006 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
108/50.02 |
Current CPC
Class: |
E04B 2002/7488 20130101;
E04B 2002/7483 20130101; A47B 13/02 20130101; E04B 2/7422 20130101;
A47B 83/001 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
108/050.02 |
International
Class: |
A47B 37/00 20060101
A47B037/00 |
Claims
1. A table for offices and the like, comprising: a rigid, elongate
center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends
thereof defining a predetermined length therebetween; first and
second center post members, positioned adjacent to said first and
second ends of said center beam member, and having lower ends
thereof configured for abutting support on an associated floor
surface, and upper ends thereof operably connected with said first
and second ends of said center beam member to support said center
beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a
predetermined height above the floor surface; first and second
rigid outrigger beam members positioned on opposite sides of said
center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular
relationship therewith, and having outer ends thereof, and inner
ends thereof operably connected with opposite sides of said first
center post member; first and second outrigger post members
positioned on said opposite sides of said center beam member
adjacent said first center post member, and having lower ends
thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and
upper ends thereof operably connected with said outside ends of
said first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize said
table; and first and second elongate worksurfaces positioned along
said opposite sides of said center beam member, and having
predetermined lengths thereof generally commensurate with said
predetermined length of said center beam member, inside edges
thereof operably connected with and at least partially supported by
said center beam member, end segments thereof abuttingly engaging
and at least partially supported by said upper ends of said first
and second outrigger post members, and outside edges thereof
protruding outwardly from said first and second outrigger post
members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong
to permit unencumbered access to said first and second
worksurfaces.
2. A table as set forth in claim 1, including: third and fourth
rigid outrigger beam members positioned on opposite sides of said
center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular
relationship therewith, and having outer ends thereof, and inner
ends thereof operably connected with opposite sides of said second
center post member; and third and fourth outrigger post members
positioned on said opposite sides of said center beam member
adjacent said second center post member, and having lower ends
thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and
upper ends thereof operably connected with said outside ends of
said third and fourth outrigger beam members to further stabilize
said table.
3. A table as set forth in claim 2, wherein: said first and second
worksurfaces abuttingly engage and are at least partially supported
by said upper ends of said third and fourth outrigger post
members.
4. A table as set forth in claim 3, wherein: said first center post
member has a generally X-shaped transverse cross-sectional
configuration, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges
extending outwardly from a central region of said first center post
member; and said first end of said center beam member is detachably
connected with a first one of said flanges on said first center
post member.
5. A table as set forth in claim 4, wherein: said inner ends of
said first and second outrigger beam members are detachably
connected with second and third ones of said flanges on said first
center post member.
6. A table as set forth in claim 5, wherein: said first outrigger
post member has a generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration
that is generally commensurate with said cross-sectional
configuration of said first center post member, and includes four
mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central
region of said first outrigger post member; and said outer end of
said first outrigger beam member is detachably connected with a
first one of said flanges on said first outrigger post member.
7. A table as set forth in claim 6, wherein: each of said flanges
of said first center post member includes a T-shaped slot extending
along an outer edge thereof; and including a first connector
retained in said T-shaped slot of said one flange on said first
center post member and detachably connected with said first end of
said center beam member.
8. A table as set forth in claim 7, including: a second connector
retained in said T-shaped slot of said second flange on said first
center post member and detachably connected with said inner end of
said first outrigger beam member.
9. A table as set forth in claim 8, wherein: each of said flanges
of said first outrigger post member includes a T-shaped slot
extending along an outer edge thereof; and including a third
connector retained in said T-shaped slot of said one flange on said
first outrigger post member and detachably connected with said
outer end of said first outrigger beam member.
10. A table as set forth in claim 9, wherein: said center beam
member includes mounting slots extending along opposite side faces
thereof; and including a plurality of brackets detachably retained
in said mounting slots, and detachably connected with said first
and second worksurfaces to at least partially support said inside
edges thereof.
11. A table as set forth in claim 10, wherein: said first and
second center post members have a height greater than the height of
said first, second, third and fourth outrigger post members, such
that at least an upper portion of said center beam member protrudes
vertically above said first and second worksurfaces.
12. A table as set forth in claim 11, wherein: said mounting slots
on said center beam member are disposed vertically above said first
and second worksurfaces, and are configured to receive and
detachably retain accessories therein.
13. A table as set forth in claim 12, including: a plurality of
accessories detachably retained in said mounting slots on said
center beam member.
14. A table as set forth in claim 13, wherein: said first and
second outrigger beam members have a lateral cross-sectional shape
which is generally commensurate with the lateral cross-sectional
shape of said center beam member.
15. A table as set forth in claim 14, wherein: said center beam
member defines a first center beam member; and including a second
rigid, elongate center beam member having first and second
oppositely disposed ends thereof defining a predetermined length
therebetween; and wherein said first end of said second center beam
member is detachably connected to a fourth one of said flanges on
said first center post member.
16. A table as set forth in claim 15, including: a third center
post member, positioned adjacent to said second end of said second
center beam member, and having a lower end thereof configured for
abutting support on the floor surface, and an upper end thereof
operably connected with said second end of said second center beam
member to support said second center beam member in a generally
horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor
surface in alignment with said first center beam member; fifth and
sixth rigid outrigger beam members positioned on opposite sides of
said second center beam member in a generally mutually
perpendicular relationship therewith, and having outer ends
thereof, and inner ends thereof operably connected with opposite
sides of said third center post member; fifth and sixth outrigger
post members positioned on said opposite sides of said second
center beam member adjacent said third center post member, and
having lower ends thereof configured for abutting support on the
floor surface, and upper ends thereof operably connected with said
outside ends of said fifth and sixth outrigger beam members to
stabilize said table; and third and fourth elongate worksurfaces
positioned along said opposite sides of said second center beam
member, and having predetermined lengths thereof generally
commensurate with said predetermined length of said second center
beam member, inside edges thereof operably connected with and at
least partially supported by said second center beam member, end
edges thereof abuttingly engaging and at least partially supported
by said upper ends of said fifth and sixth outrigger post members,
and outside edges thereof protruding outwardly from said fifth and
sixth outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and
extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to said
third and fourth worksurfaces.
17. A table as set forth in claim 16, wherein: said third center
post member and said fifth and sixth outrigger post members have a
generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration that is generally
commensurate with said cross-sectional configuration of said first
and second center post members and said first, second, third and
fourth outrigger post members; and said second center beam member
and said fifth and sixth outrigger beam members have a lateral
cross-sectional shape that is generally commensurate with said
lateral cross-sectional shape of said first center beam member and
said first, second, third and fourth outrigger beam members.
18. A table as set forth in claim 17, wherein: each of said first,
second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth outrigger beam members
includes a T-shaped slot extending along a lower edge thereof; and
said accessories include at least one electrical outlet member
detachably mounted in said T-slot in an associated one of said
outrigger beams.
19. A table as set forth in claim 18, including: at least one
shroud positioned around and enclosing at least a portion of said
one outrigger beam and said one of said outrigger post members
connected therewith.
20. A table for offices and the like, comprising: a rigid, elongate
center beam member having first and second oppositely disposed ends
thereof defining a predetermined length therebetween; first and
second center post members, positioned adjacent to said first and
second ends of said center beam member, and having lower ends
thereof configured for abutting support on an associated floor
surface, and upper ends thereof operably connected with said first
and second ends of said center beam member to support said center
beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a
predetermined height above the floor surface; at least one
outrigger beam member positioned on one side of said center beam
member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship
therewith, and having an outer end thereof, and an inner end
thereof operably connected with an associated side of said first
center post member; at least one outrigger post member positioned
on said one side of said center beam member adjacent said first
center post member, and having a lower end thereof configured for
abutting support on the floor surface, and an upper end thereof
operably connected with said outside end of said outrigger beam
member to stabilize said table; and at least one elongate
worksurface positioned along said one side of said center beam
member, and having a predetermined length thereof generally
commensurate with said predetermined length of said center beam
member, an inside edge thereof operably connected with and at least
partially supported by said center beam member, an end segment
thereof abuttingly engaging and at least partially supported by
said upper end of said outrigger post member, and an outside edge
thereof protruding outwardly from said outrigger post member in a
cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit
unencumbered access to said worksurface.
21. A table as set forth in claim 20, wherein: said first center
post member has a generally X-shaped transverse cross-sectional
configuration, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges
extending outwardly from a central region of said first center post
member; said first end of said center beam member is detachably
connected with a first one of said flanges on said first center
post member; and said inner end of said outrigger beam member is
detachably connected with a second one of said flanges on said
first center post member.
22. A table as set forth in claim 21, wherein: said outrigger post
member has a generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration that
is generally commensurate with said cross-sectional configuration
of said first center post member, and includes four mutually
perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central region of
said outrigger post member; said outer end of said outrigger beam
member is detachably connected with a first one of said flanges on
said outrigger post member; and said outrigger beam member has a
lateral cross-sectional shape which is generally commensurate with
the lateral cross-sectional shape of said center beam member.
23. A table as set forth in claim 22, wherein: said center beam
member includes mounting slots extending along opposite side faces
thereof; and including a plurality of brackets detachably retained
in said mounting slots, and detachably connected with said
worksurface to at least partially support said inside edge
thereof.
24. A table as set forth in claim 23, wherein: said first and
second center post members have a height greater than the height of
said outrigger post member, such that at least an upper portion of
said center beam member protrudes vertically above said
worksurface; said mounting slots on said center beam member are
disposed vertically above said worksurface, and including a
plurality of accessories detachably retained in said mounting slots
on said center beam member.
25. In a table for offices and the like, the improvement
comprising: a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and
second oppositely disposed ends thereof defining a predetermined
length therebetween; at least one center post member, positioned
adjacent to said first end of said center beam member, and having a
lower end thereof configured for abutting support on an associated
floor surface, and an upper end thereof operably connected with
said first end of said center beam member to support at least a
portion of said center beam member in a generally horizontal
orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface;
first and second rigid outrigger beam members positioned on
opposite sides of said center beam member in a generally mutually
perpendicular relationship therewith, and having outer ends
thereof, and inner ends thereof operably connected with opposite
sides of said center post member; first and second outrigger post
members positioned on said opposite sides of said center beam
member adjacent said center post member, and having lower ends
thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and
upper ends thereof operably connected with said outside ends of
said first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize said
table; and first and second elongate worksurfaces positioned along
said opposite sides of said center beam member, and having
predetermined lengths thereof generally commensurate with said
predetermined length of said center beam member, inside edges
thereof operably connected with and at least partially supported by
said center beam member, end segments thereof abuttingly engaging
and at least partially supported by said upper ends of said
outrigger post members, and outside edges thereof protruding
outwardly from said outrigger post members in a cantilevered
fashion and extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered
access to said first and second worksurfaces.
26. A table as set forth in claim 25, wherein: said center post
member has a generally X-shaped transverse cross-sectional
configuration, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges
extending outwardly from a central region of said first center post
member; said first end of said center beam member is detachably
connected with a first one of said flanges on said first center
post member; and said inner ends of said first and second outrigger
beam members are detachably connected with second and third ones of
said flanges on said center post member.
27. A table as set forth in claim 26, wherein: said first outrigger
post member has a generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration
that is generally commensurate with said cross-sectional
configuration of said center post member, and includes four
mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a central
region of said first outrigger post member; said outer end of said
first outrigger beam member is detachably connected with a first
one of said flanges on said first outrigger post member; and said
first and second outrigger beam members have a lateral
cross-sectional shape which is generally commensurate with the
lateral cross-sectional shape of said center beam member.
28. A table as set forth in claim 27, wherein: said center beam
member includes mounting slots extending along opposite side faces
thereof; and including a plurality of brackets detachably retained
in said mounting slots, and detachably connected with said first
and second worksurfaces to at least partially support said inside
edges thereof.
29. A table as set forth in claim 28, wherein: said center post
member has a height greater than the height of said first and
second outrigger post members, such that at least an upper portion
of said center beam member protrudes vertically above said first
and second worksurfaces; said mounting slots on said center beam
member are disposed vertically above said first and second
worksurfaces; and including a plurality of accessories detachably
retained in said mounting slots on said center beam member.
30. In a table for offices and the like, the improvement
comprising: a rigid, elongate center beam member having first and
second oppositely disposed ends thereof defining a predetermined
length therebetween; at least one center post member, positioned
adjacent to said first end of said center beam member, and having a
lower end thereof configured for abutting support on an associated
floor surface, and an upper end thereof configured for operable
connection with said first end of said center beam member to
support at least a portion of said center beam member in a
generally horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above
the floor surface; said center post member having a generally
X-shaped transverse cross-sectional configuration, and including
four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly from a
central region of said center post member, and wherein said first
end of said center beam member is detachably connected with a first
one of said flanges on said first center post member; at least one
rigid outrigger beam member positioned on one side of said center
beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular relationship
therewith, and having an outer end thereof, and an inner end
thereof operably connected with an associated side of said center
post member; said outrigger beam member has a lateral
cross-sectional shape which is generally commensurate with the
lateral cross-sectional shape of said center beam member; at least
one outrigger post member positioned on said side of said center
beam member adjacent said center post member, and having a lower
end thereof configured for abutting support on the floor surface,
and an upper end thereof operably connected with said outside end
of said outrigger beam member to stabilize said table; said
outrigger post member having a generally X-shaped cross-sectional
configuration that is generally commensurate with said
cross-sectional configuration of said center post member, and
including four mutually perpendicular flanges extending outwardly
from a central region of said outrigger post member, and wherein
said outer end of said outrigger beam member is detachably
connected with a first one of said flanges on said outrigger beam
member; and at least one elongate worksurface positioned along said
one side of said center beam member, and having a predetermined
length thereof generally commensurate with said predetermined
length of said center beam member, an inside edge thereof operably
connected with and at least partially supported by said center beam
member, an end segment thereof abuttingly engaging and at least
partially supported by said upper end of said outrigger post
member, and an outside edge thereof protruding outwardly from said
outrigger post member in a cantilevered fashion and extending
freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to said
worksurface.
31. A table as set forth in claim 30, wherein: each of said flanges
of said center post member includes a T-shaped slot extending along
an outer edge thereof; and including a first connector retained in
said T-shaped slot of said one flange of said center post member
and detachably connected with said first end of said center beam
member.
32. A table as set forth in claim 31, wherein: said center beam
member includes mounting slots extending along opposite side faces
thereof; and including a plurality of brackets detachably retained
in said mounting slots, and detachably connected with said first
and second worksurfaces to at least partially support said inside
edges thereof.
33. A table as set forth in claim 32, wherein: said center post
member has a height greater than the height of said outrigger post
member, such that at least an upper portion of said center beam
member protrudes vertically above said first and second
worksurfaces.
34. A table as set forth in claim 33, wherein: said mounting slots
on said center beam member are disposed vertically above said first
and second worksurfaces; and including a plurality of accessories
detachably retained in said mounting slots on said center beam
member.
35. A method for making a table: comprising: forming a rigid,
elongate center beam member with first and second oppositely
disposed ends defining a predetermined length therebetween; forming
rigid first and second center post members with lower ends thereof
configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and
upper ends thereof configured for operable connection with the
first and second ends of the center beam member; forming rigid
first and second outrigger beam members with outer ends thereof,
and inner ends thereof configured for operable connection with
opposite sides of the first center post member; forming rigid first
and second outrigger post members with lower ends thereof
configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper
ends thereof configured for operable connection with the outside
ends of the first and second outrigger beam members; forming first
and second elongate worksurfaces with predetermined lengths thereof
generally commensurate with the predetermined length of the center
beam member, and including inside edges, end segments and outside
edges; detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second
center post members with the first and second ends of the center
beam member to support the center beam member in a generally
horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor
surface; positioning the first and second outrigger beam members on
opposite sides of the center beam member in a generally mutually
perpendicular relationship therewith; detachably connecting the
inner ends of the first and second outrigger beam members with
opposite sides of the first center post member; positioning the
first and second outrigger post members on the opposite sides of
the center beam member adjacent the first center post member;
detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second
outrigger post members with the outer ends of the first and second
outrigger beam members to stabilize the table; positioning the
first and second worksurfaces along the opposite sides of the
center beam member with the inside edges thereof extending
generally parallel and adjacent to the opposite sides of the center
beam member, the end segments thereof positioned adjacent to the
upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members, and the
outside edges thereof protruding outwardly from the first and
second outrigger post members in a cantilevered fashion and
extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the
first and second worksurfaces; detachably connecting at least a
portion of the inside edges of the first and second worksurfaces
with the center beam member to at least partially support the same
thereon; and abuttingly engaging at least a portion of the end
segments of the first and second worksurfaces with the upper ends
of the first and second outrigger post members to at least
partially support the same thereon.
36. A method as set forth in claim 35, including: forming rigid
third and fourth outrigger beam members with outer ends thereof,
and inner ends thereof configured for operable connection with
opposite sides of the second center post member; forming rigid
third and fourth outrigger post members with lower ends thereof
configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper
ends thereof configured for operable connection with the outside
ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam members; positioning
the third and fourth outrigger beam members on opposite sides of
the center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular
relationship therewith; detachably connecting the inner ends of the
third and fourth outrigger beam members with opposite sides of the
second center post member; positioning the third and fourth
outrigger post members on the opposite sides of the center beam
member adjacent the second center post member; and detachably
connecting the upper ends of the third and fourth outrigger post
members with the outer ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam
members to stabilize the table.
37. A method as set forth in claim 36, including: abuttingly
engaging at least a portion of the end segments of the first and
second worksurfaces with the upper ends of the third and fourth
outrigger post members to at least partially support the same
thereon.
38. A method for making a table; comprising: forming a plurality of
rigid, elongate center beam members with first and second
oppositely disposed ends defining a variety of different
predetermined lengths therebetween; forming rigid first and second
center post members with lower ends thereof configured for abutting
support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends thereof
configured for operable connection with the first and second ends
of an associated one of the center beam members; forming rigid
first and second outrigger beam members with outer ends thereof,
and inner ends thereof configured for operable connection with
opposite sides of the first center post member; forming rigid first
and second outrigger post members with lower ends thereof
configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper
ends thereof configured for operable connection with the outside
ends of the first and second outrigger beam members; forming a
plurality of pairs of elongate worksurfaces with a variety of
different predetermined lengths generally commensurate with the
predetermined lengths of the center beam members, and including
inside edges, end segments and outside edges; selecting one of the
center beam members with a predetermined length generally
commensurate with the desired length of the table; detachably
connecting the upper ends of the first and second center post
members with the first and second ends of the one center beam
member to support the one center beam member in a generally
horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor
surface; positioning the first and second outrigger beam members on
opposite sides of the one center beam member in a generally
mutually perpendicular relationship therewith; detachably
connecting the inner ends of the first and second outrigger beam
members with opposite sides of the first center post member;
positioning the first and second outrigger post members on the
opposite sides of the one center beam member adjacent the first
center post member; detachably connecting the upper ends of the
first and second outrigger post members with the outer ends of the
first and second outrigger beam members to stabilize the table;
selecting one pair of the worksurfaces with predetermined lengths
substantially commensurate with the predetermined length of the one
center beam member; positioning the first and second worksurfaces
along the opposite sides of the center beam member with the inside
edges thereof extending generally parallel and adjacent to the
opposite sides of the center beam member, the end segments thereof
positioned adjacent to the upper ends of the first and second
outrigger post members, and the outside edges thereof protruding
outwardly from the first and second outrigger post members in a
cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong to permit
unencumbered access to the first and second worksurfaces;
detachably connecting at least a portion of the inside edges of the
first and second worksurfaces with the center beam member to at
least partially support the same thereon; and abuttingly engaging
at least a portion of the end segments of the first and second
worksurfaces with the upper ends of the first and second outrigger
post members to at least partially support the same thereon.
39. A method as set forth in claim 38, including: forming rigid
third and fourth outrigger beam members with outer ends thereof,
and inner ends thereof configured for operable connection with
opposite ends of the second center post member; forming rigid third
and fourth outrigger post members with lower ends thereof
configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and upper
ends thereof configured for operable connection with the outside
ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam members; positioning
the third and fourth outrigger beam members on opposite sides of
the one center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular
relationship therewith; detachably connecting the inner ends of the
third and fourth outrigger beam members with opposite sides of the
second center post member; positioning the third and fourth
outrigger post members on the opposite sides of the one center beam
member adjacent the second center post member; and detachably
connecting the upper ends of the third and fourth outrigger post
members with the outer ends of the third and fourth outrigger beam
members to stabilize the table.
40. A method as set forth in claim 39, including: abuttingly
engaging at least a portion of the end segments of the first and
second worksurfaces with the upper ends of the third and fourth
outrigger post members to at least partially support the same
thereon.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to furnishings for open office
spaces and other similar environments, and in particular to a
furniture construction for tables, workstations and the like.
[0002] The efficient use of building floor space is an ever-growing
concern, particularly as building costs continue to escalate. Open
office plans have been developed to reduce overall officing costs,
and generally incorporate large, open floor spaces in buildings
that are equipped with modular furniture systems that can be
readily reconfigured to accommodate the ever-changing needs of a
specific user, as well as the divergent requirements of different
tenants.
[0003] Desks and desking systems are generally well known in the
art, and have typically been configured to support either
individual workers, such as in private offices or workstations, or
a group of workers, such as with conference tables, library tables
and the like.
[0004] More recently, desking systems have been used in open office
plans, particularly to support group work and/or temporary workers,
visitors and other similar personnel. Desking systems have been
developed to provide flexible furnishings, which allow companies to
create temporary spaces where groups can meet and present, or work
on team projects.
[0005] Changing technology and changing work processes demand that
current office furnishings be readily adapted to efficiently
support the ever-changing needs of workers. Therefore, the quick
and easy reconfigurability of desking systems is desired to meet
these needs. Also important is ready user accessibility and power
and data capabilities, as well as visual appeal and style, while
effectively managing the ever-growing web of wires vital to
business and education collaborations. The cost of office
furniture, and reconfigurability of the same, are also important
factors, such that an uncomplicated design that is economical to
manufacture and reconfigure is clearly beneficial.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] One aspect of the present invention is a table for offices
and the like, comprising a rigid, elongate center beam member
having first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a
predetermined length therebetween. First and second center post
members are positioned adjacent to the first and second ends of the
center beam member, and have lower ends configured for abutting
support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends operably
connected with the first and second ends of the center beam member
to support the center beam member in a generally horizontal
orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface.
First and second rigid outrigger beam members are positioned at
opposite sides of the center beam member in a generally mutually
perpendicular relationship therewith, and have outer ends, and
inner ends operably connected with opposite sides of the first
center post member. First and second outrigger post members are
positioned on opposite sides of the center beam member adjacent the
first center post member, and have lower ends configured for
abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends operably
connected with the outside ends of the first and second outrigger
beam members to stabilize the table. First and second elongate
worksurfaces are positioned along the opposite sides of the center
beam member, and have predetermined lengths generally commensurate
with the predetermined length of the center beam member, inside
edges operably connected with and at least partially supported by
the center beam member, end segments abutting and at least
partially supported by the upper ends of the first and second
outrigger post members, and outside edges protruding outwardly from
the first and second outrigger posts in a cantilevered fashion and
extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the
first and second worksurfaces.
[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is a table for
offices and the like, comprising a rigid, elongate center beam
member having first and second oppositely disposed ends defining a
predetermined length therebetween. First and second center post
members are positioned adjacent to the first and second ends of the
center beam member, and have lower ends configured for abutting
support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends operably
connected with the first and second ends of the center beam member
to support the center beam member in a generally horizontal
orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface. At
least one outrigger beam member is positioned on one side of the
center beam member in a generally mutually perpendicular
relationship therewith, and has an outer end, and an inner end
operably connected with an associated side of the first center post
member. At least one outrigger post member is positioned on the one
side of the center beam member adjacent the first center post
member, and has a lower end configured for abutting support on the
floor surface, and an upper end operably connected with the outside
end of the outrigger beam member to stabilize the table. At least
one elongate worksurface is positioned along the one side of the
center beam member, and has a predetermined length generally
commensurate with the predetermined length of the center beam
member, an inside edge operably connected with and at least
partially supported by the center beam member, an end segment
abutting and at least partially supported by the upper end of the
outrigger post member, and an outside edge protruding outwardly
from the outrigger post member in a cantilevered fashion and
extending freely therealong to permit unencumbered access to the
worksurface.
[0008] Yet another aspect of the present invention is an
improvement in tables for offices and the like, comprising a rigid,
elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely
disposed ends defining a predetermined length therebetween. At
least one center post member is positioned adjacent to the first
end of the center beam member, and has a lower end configured for
abutting support on an associated floor surface, and an upper end
operably connected with the first end of the center beam member to
support at least a portion of the center beam member in a generally
horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor
surface. First and second rigid outrigger beam members are
positioned at opposite sides of the center beam member in a
generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and have
outer ends, and inner ends operably connected with opposite sides
of the center post member. First and second outrigger post members
are positioned on opposite sides of the center beam member adjacent
the center post member, and have lower ends configured for abutting
support on the floor surface, and upper ends operably connected
with the outside ends of the first and second outrigger beam
members to stabilize the table. First and second elongate
worksurfaces are positioned along the opposite sides of the center
beam member, and have predetermined lengths generally commensurate
with the predetermined length of the center beam member, inside
edges operably connected with and at least partially supported by
the center beam member, end segments abutting and at least
partially supported by the upper ends of the outrigger post
members, and outside edges protruding outwardly from the outrigger
post members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely
therealong to permit unencumbered access to the first and second
worksurfaces.
[0009] Yet another aspect of the present invention is an
improvement in tables for offices and the like, comprising a rigid,
elongate center beam member having first and second oppositely
disposed ends defining a predetermined length therebetween. At
least one center post member is positioned adjacent to the first
end of the center beam member, and has a lower end thereof
configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and
an upper end configured for operable connection with the first end
of the center beam member to support at least a portion of the
center beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a
predetermined height above the floor surface. The center post
member has a generally X-shaped transverse cross-sectional
configuration, including four mutually perpendicular flanges
extending outwardly from a central region of the center post
member, and wherein the first end of the center beam member is
detachably connected with the first one of the flanges on the first
center post member. At least one rigid outrigger beam member is
positioned on one side of the center beam member in a generally
mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and has an outer
end, and an inner end operably connected with an associated side of
the center post member. The outrigger beam has a lateral
cross-sectional shape which is generally commensurate with the
lateral cross-sectional shape of the center beam member. At least
one outrigger post is positioned on the side of the center beam
member adjacent the center post member, and has a lower end
configured for abutting support on the floor surface, and an upper
end operably connected with the outside end of the outrigger beam
member to stabilize the table. The outrigger post member has a
generally X-shaped cross-sectional configuration that is generally
commensurate with the cross-sectional configuration of the center
post member, and includes four mutually perpendicular flanges
extending outwardly from a central region of the outrigger post
member, and wherein the outer end of the outrigger beam member is
detachably connected with a first one of the flanges on the
outrigger post member. At least one elongate worksurface is
positioned along the one side of the center beam member, and has a
predetermined length generally commensurate with the predetermined
length of the center beam member, an end segment abutting and at
least partially supported by the upper end of the outrigger post
member, and an outside edge protruding outwardly from the outrigger
post member in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely
therealong to permit unencumbered access to the worksurface.
[0010] Yet another aspect of the present invention is a method for
making a table, comprising the steps of forming a rigid, elongate
center beam member with first and second oppositely disposed ends
defining a predetermined length therebetween, and forming rigid
first and second center post members with lower ends configured for
abutting support on an associated floor surface, and upper ends
configured for operable connection with the first and second ends
of the center beam member. The method further includes the steps of
forming rigid first and second outrigger beam members with outer
ends, and inner ends configured for operable connection with
opposite sides of the first center post member, forming first and
second outrigger post members with lower ends configured for
abutting support on the floor surface, and upper ends configured
for operable connection with the outside ends of the first and
second outrigger beam members, and forming first and second
elongate worksurfaces with predetermined lengths generally
commensurate with the predetermined length of the center beam
member. The method further includes the steps of detachably
connecting the upper ends of the first and second center post
members with the first and second ends of the center beam member to
support the center beam member in a generally horizontal
orientation at a predetermined height above the floor surface,
positioning the first and second outrigger beam members on opposite
sides of the center beam member in a generally mutually
perpendicular relationship therewith, and detachably connecting the
inner ends of the first and second outrigger beam members with
opposite sides of the first center post member. The method further
includes the steps of positioning the first and second outrigger
post members on opposite sides of the center beam member adjacent
the first center post member, and detachably connecting the upper
ends of the first and second outrigger post members with the
outside ends of the first and second outrigger beam members to
stabilize the table. The method further includes the steps of
positioning the first and second worksurfaces along the opposite
sides of the center beam member with inside edges thereof extending
generally parallel and adjacent to the opposite sides of the center
beam member, end segments positioned adjacent to the upper ends of
the first and second outrigger post members, and outside edges
protruding outwardly from the first and second outrigger post
members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong
to permit unencumbered access to the first and second worksurfaces.
The method further includes the steps of detachably connecting at
least a portion of the inside edges of the first and second
worksurfaces with the center beam member to at least partially
support the same thereon, and abuttingly engaging the end segments
of the first and second worksurfaces on the upper ends of the first
and second outrigger post members to at least partially support the
same thereon.
[0011] Yet another aspect of the present invention is a method for
making a table, comprising the steps of forming a plurality of
rigid, elongate beam members with first and second oppositely
disposed ends defining a variety of different predetermined lengths
therebetween, and forming first and second center post members with
lower ends configured for abutting support on an associated floor
surface, and upper ends configured for operable connection with the
first and second ends of an associated one of the center beam
members. The method also includes the steps of forming rigid first
and second outrigger beam members with outer ends, and inner ends
configured for operable connection with opposite sides of the first
post member, forming first and second outrigger post members with
lower ends configured for abutting support on the floor surface,
and upper ends configured for operable connection with the outside
ends of the first and second outrigger beam members, and forming a
plurality of pairs of elongate worksurfaces with a variety of
different predetermined lengths generally commensurate with the
predetermined lengths of the center beam members. The method
further includes the steps of selecting one of the center beam
members with a predetermined length generally commensurate with the
desired length of the table, and detachably connecting the upper
ends of the first and second center post members with the first and
second ends of the one center beam member to support the one center
beam member in a generally horizontal orientation at a
predetermined height above the floor surface. The method further
includes the steps of positioning the first and second outrigger
beam members on opposite sides of the one center beam member in a
generally mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and
detachably connecting the inner ends of the first and second
outrigger beam members with opposite sides of the first center beam
member. The method further includes the steps of positioning the
first and second outrigger post members on opposite sides of the
one center beam member adjacent the first center post member, and
detachably connecting the upper ends of the first and second
outrigger post members with the outer ends of the first and second
outrigger beam members to stabilize the table. The method further
includes the steps of selecting one pair of the worksurfaces with
predetermined lengths substantially commensurate with the
predetermined length of the one center beam member, and positioning
the first and second worksurfaces along the opposite sides of the
center beam member with inside edges thereof extending generally
parallel and adjacent to the opposite sides of the center beam
member, end segments positioned adjacent to the upper ends of the
first and second outrigger post members, and outside edges
protruding outwardly from the first and second outrigger post
members in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely therealong
to permit unencumbered access to the first and second worksurfaces.
The method further includes the steps of detachably connecting at
least a portion of the inside edges of the first and second
worksurfaces with the center beam member to at least partially
support the same thereon, and abuttingly engaging at least a
portion of the end segments of the first and second worksurfaces
with the upper ends of the first and second outrigger post members
to at least partially support the same thereon.
[0012] Yet another aspect of the present invention is to provide a
table and method with improved user accessibility and power and
data capabilities, as well as visual appeal and style. The table is
extremely flexible, adaptable, compact, sturdy, and economical to
manufacture in a wide variety of different sizes and shapes using
common parts.
[0013] Yet another aspect of the present invention is a table
construction capable of using common accessories on and
interchanged among portable partition systems, post and beam
partition systems and tables. Such accessories may include power
and data communication outlets, varied receptacles, file cabinets,
partition screens, tables, light fixtures and utility managers, as
well as other various support devices. Preferably, the table
construction uses common parts and/or systems from a post and beam
furniture system to create a table, workstation or the like. The
table construction utilizes a common aesthetic appearance between
the various configurations, as well as common utility routing
techniques between the various configurations.
[0014] These and other advantages of the invention will be further
understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference
to the following written specification, claims and appended
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a table embodying the
present invention.
[0016] FIG. 2 is a fragmentary perspective view of the table.
[0017] FIG. 3 is an exploded, fragmentary view of the table,
wherein worksurfaces therefor are shown in broken lines.
[0018] FIG. 4 is an exploded, fragmentary view of a frame portion
of the table.
[0019] FIG. 5 is a top plan view of a post portion of the
table.
[0020] FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of a beam portion
of the table.
[0021] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a T-nut portion of the
table.
[0022] FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of the T-nut.
[0023] FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of the T-nut.
[0024] FIG. 10 is an exploded, fragmentary perspective view of a
beam-to-post connector assembly portion of the table, shown prior
to installation on an associated beam.
[0025] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of an anchor portion of the
beam-to-post connector assembly.
[0026] FIG. 12 is a front elevational view of the anchor.
[0027] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the anchor.
[0028] FIG. 14 is a rear elevational view of the anchor.
[0029] FIG. 15 is a bottom plan view of the anchor.
[0030] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of a nut plate portion of the
beam-to-post connector assembly.
[0031] FIG. 17 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the nut
plate.
[0032] FIG. 18 is a top plan view of the beam-to-post connector
assembly, shown installed between an associated post and beam to
interconnect the same.
[0033] FIG. 19 is an exploded, perspective view of two beam-to-post
connector assemblies, shown prior to connection between an
associated post and beam.
[0034] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a worksurface support
bracket portion of the table.
[0035] FIG. 21 is a fragmentary perspective view of a pair of
worksurface support brackets, shown attaching a worksurface to an
associated beam.
[0036] FIG. 22 is a fragmentary perspective view of the worksurface
support bracket, shown attaching a worksurface to an associated
beam.
[0037] FIG. 23 is a fragmentary perspective view of an alternative
embodiment of the present invention.
[0038] FIG. 24 is a fragmentary top plan view of the table shown in
FIG. 23.
[0039] FIG. 25 is another fragmentary perspective view of the table
shown in FIG. 23.
[0040] FIG. 26 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of
the present invention.
[0041] FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a storage portion of yet
another embodiment of the present invention.
[0042] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of a support post portion of
the table shown in FIG. 27.
[0043] FIG. 29 is an exploded, perspective view of the support post
shown in FIGS. 27 and 28.
[0044] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of a frame portion of yet
another embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 31 is an end elevational view of the table frame shown
in FIG. 30.
[0046] FIG. 32 is an exploded, perspective view of the table frame
shown in FIG. 30.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0047] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper",
"lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal"
and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented
in FIG. 1. However, it is to be understood that the invention may
assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except
where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be
understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in
the attached drawings, and described in the following
specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the inventive
concepts defined in the appended claims.
[0048] The reference numeral 1 (FIG. 1) generally designates a
table for offices and the like, embodying the present invention. As
best illustrated in FIG. 4, table 1 includes a rigid, elongate
center beam 2 having first and second oppositely disposed ends 3
and 4 defining a predetermined length therebetween. First and
second rigid center posts 5 and 6 are positioned adjacent to the
opposite ends 3 and 4 of center beam 2, and have lower ends 7 and 8
configured for abutting support on an associated floor surface, and
upper ends 9 and 10 operably connected with the opposite ends 3 and
4 of center beam 2 to support center beam 2 in a generally
horizontal orientation at a predetermined height above the floor
surface. First and second rigid outrigger beams 11 and 12 are
positioned on opposite sides of center beam 2 in a generally
mutually perpendicular relationship therewith, and have outer ends
13 and 14, and inner ends 15 and 16 operably connected with
opposite sides of the first center post member 5. First and second
rigid outrigger post members 17 and 18 are positioned on opposite
sides of center beam 2 adjacent the first center post 5, and have
lower ends 19 and 20 configured for abutting support on the floor
surface, and upper ends 21 and 22 operably connected with the
outside ends 13 and 14 of outrigger beams 11 and 12 to stabilize
table 1. First and second elongate worksurfaces 23 and 24 (FIG. 1)
are positioned along opposite sides of center beam 2, and have
predetermined lengths generally commensurate with the length of
center beam 2, inside edges 25 and 26 operably connected with and
at least partially supported by center beam 2, end segments 27 and
28 abuttingly engaging and at least partially supported by the
upper ends 21 and 22 of outrigger post members 17 and 18, and
outside edges 29 and 30 protruding outwardly from outrigger post
members 17 and 18 in a cantilevered fashion and extending freely
therealong to permit unencumbered access to worksurfaces 23 and
24.
[0049] In the example illustrated in FIG. 4, center beam 2, center
posts 5 and 6, outrigger beams 11 and 12, and outrigger posts 17
and 18 are all detachably interconnected to one another by
connectors or connector assemblies 40 to define a rigid frame 41 on
which worksurfaces 23 and 24 are securely supported in the fashion
described in greater detail hereinafter.
[0050] It is to be understood that the modular construction of
table 1, as well as the related method of manufacture, permit
constructing a wide variety of tables having different shapes,
sizes and heights. For example, the table 1 illustrated in FIGS.
1-3 has two center beams 2 and 2a, three center posts 5, 6 and 6a,
and six outrigger beams 11, 12, 11a, 12a, 11b, and 12b, all of
which are interconnected by connectors 40 to form frame 41 on which
two worksurfaces 23 and 24 are supported on opposite sides of
center beams 2 and 2a. In the illustrated example, center beams 2
and 2a have substantially identical lengths, and outrigger beams
11, 12, 11a, 12a, 11b and 12b also have substantially equal
lengths, such that the table is symmetrical. As will be appreciated
by those skilled in the art, an additional center beam may be added
to increase the overall length of table 1, which would in turn be
supported at its free end by an associated center post, a pair of
outrigger beams, and a pair of outrigger posts (not shown). The
width of the table may also be increased by increasing the lengths
of outrigger beams 11, 12, 11a, 12a, 11b and 12b, and increasing
the widths of the associated worksurfaces 23 and 24.
[0051] Each of the illustrated center beams 2 and 2a has a lateral
cross-sectional shape and size that is substantially identical to
the beam disclosed in Applicants' related application Ser. Nos.
10/087,324 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,914), 10/753,663 and
11/122,899, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. More
specifically, as best illustrated in FIG. 6, each center beam 2 has
a generally rectangular end elevational configuration defined by a
flat top surface 50, a flat bottom surface 51, and flat opposing
side surfaces 52 and 53. A pair of slots 54 and 55 extend along the
top and bottom surfaces 50 and 51 of center beam 2, and have a
generally T-shaped lateral cross-sectional configuration defined by
enlarged track portions 56 and 57, reduced neck portions 58 and 59
which open upwardly and downwardly, and arcuate clamping portions
60 and 61 which mate with connectors 40. Fastener apertures 62 and
63 are formed vertically through slots 54 and 55, and extend into
the interior of center beam 2 at locations adjacent to the opposite
ends 3 and 4 thereof to facilitate attachment of connectors 40 in
the manner described in greater detail hereinafter. The side
surfaces 52 and 53 of the illustrated center beam 2 include a pair
of T-shaped hanger slots 64 and 65 extending longitudinally
therealong, defined by enlarged interior track portions 66 and 67,
and reduced neck portions 68 and 69 which open laterally outwardly.
Two horizontally extending upper slots 70 are formed in the
interior of center beam 2 at the opposite ends 3 and 4 thereof,
directly below apertures 62 and along the interior surfaces of
track portion 66. A pair of ribs 71 and 72 extend laterally
inwardly in a horizontal fashion along the lower portion of center
beam 2 at the opposite ends 3 and 4 thereof, and define two
horizontally extending lower slots 73 directly above apertures
63.
[0052] The illustrated outrigger beams 11 & 12, 11a & 12a,
and 11b & 12b each have a lateral cross-sectional shape and
size which is substantially identical to center beam 2, as
illustrated in FIG. 6 and described above, such that similar
portions are represented by the same, corresponding reference
numerals, except for the suffix "'" in the numerals of the latter.
Preferably, each of the center beams 2 and 2a and the outrigger
beams 11 & 12, 11a & 12a, and 11b & 12b are constructed
from preselected lengths of similarly shaped rigid channel
constructed from extruded aluminum or the like.
[0053] The illustrated center posts 5, 6 and 6a have a
substantially identical construction, wherein each has a lateral
cross-sectional shape and size that is substantially identical to
the post disclosed in Applicants' related application Ser. Nos.
10/087,324 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,914), 10/753,663 and
11/122,899, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. More
specifically, each center post 5, 6 and 6a has a generally
cruciform or X-shaped transverse cross-sectional configuration
defined by four mutually perpendicular flanges 80-83, which extend
outwardly from a generally square central region 84. Each of the
flanges 80-83 has a square plan configuration and a flat end face
85 with a single longitudinal slot 86 extending centrally along end
face 85. Each of the slots 86 has a generally T-shaped lateral
cross-sectional configuration defined by an enlarged interior track
portion 87, a reduced neck portion 88 which opens laterally
outwardly, and arcuate clamping portions 89 which mate with
connectors 40. The shape and size of slots 86 in center post 5 are
similar to the shape and size of the slots 54 and 55 in center beam
2, so as to accept a common connector 40 therein. Each of the
illustrated center posts 5, 6 and 6a includes a circular base or
foot 90 attached to the lower end 7, 8 and 8a thereof to facilitate
abutting support on an associated floor surface. Foot 90 may be
vertically adjustable to accommodate for undulations or unevenness
in the floor surface.
[0054] The illustrated outrigger posts 17 & 18, 17a & 18a,
and 17b & 18b each have a lateral cross-sectional shape and
size which is substantially identical with the center posts 5, 6
and 6a, as illustrated in FIG. 5 and described above, such that
similar portions are represented by the same, corresponding
reference numerals, except for the suffix "'" in the numerals of
the latter. As discussed in greater detail below, the illustrated
outrigger posts 17 & 18, 17a & 18a, and 17b & 18b each
have a length which is less than the length of center posts 5, 6
and 6a, so as to position center beams 2 and 2a above worksurfaces
23 and 24, and position the upper ends 21 and 22 of outrigger posts
17 & 18, 17a & 18a, and 17b & 18b directly below
worksurfaces 23 and 24 to support the same thereon. Preferably,
each of the center posts 5, 6 and 6a and outrigger posts 17 &
18, 17a & 18a, and 17b & 18b are constructed from
preselected lengths of similarly shaped rigid channel constructed
from extruded aluminum or the like.
[0055] The worksurfaces 23 and 24 illustrated in FIG. 1 have a
generally rectangular plan configuration defined by inside edges 25
and 26, outside edges 29 and 30, and end edges 95 and 96.
Worksurfaces 23 and 24 are rigid, can be constructed from
reinforced composite wood panels, or the like, and may also be
provided in a wide variety of different lengths and widths to
accommodate a specific table application. Preferably, worksurfaces
23 and 24 are elongate to define multiple side-by-side workstations
along both outside edges 29 and 30 of worksurfaces 23 and 24. When
center beams 2, 2a are elevated above worksurfaces 23 and 24, as
shown in FIG. 1, the same divide the worksurface area
longitudinally into two opposite sides. However, it is to be
understood that the center beams 2, 2a can be positioned flush with
worksurfaces 23 and 24 to create a single, open work area. In the
example illustrated in FIG. 1, the end segments 27 and 28 of
worksurfaces 23 and 24 are positioned inwardly from the associated
end edges 95 and 96, such that the end edges 95 and 96 of
worksurfaces 23 and 24 project or extend longitudinally outwardly
from the endmost center posts 5 and 6a, and associated outrigger
posts 17 & 18 and 17b & 18b. Filler center beam segments 97
extend from center posts 5 and 6a to the end edges 95 and 96 of
worksurfaces 23 and 24. However, it is to be understood that table
1 can be configured such that the end edges 95 and 96 are flush
with the endmost center posts and associated outrigger posts.
[0056] In the table 1 illustrated in FIG. 19, a pair of connector
assemblies 40 are used at both ends 3 and 4 of the center beams 2
and 2a, as well as outrigger beams 11 & 12, 11a & 12a, and
11b & 12b, to detachably connect the same with associated
center posts 5, 6 and 6a and outrigger posts 17 & 18, 17a &
18a, and 17b & 18b. Each of the connector assemblies 40 has a
construction, which is somewhat similar to the connector
illustrated in Applicants' related application Ser. Nos. 10/087,234
(now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,914), 10/753,663 and 11/122,899, which are
hereby incorporated herein by reference. FIG. 19 illustrates the
attachment of one end 3 of center beam 2 to an associated center
post 5. It is to be understood that the attachment of the opposite
end 4 of center beam 2 to center post 6 is similar, as is the
attachment of all outrigger beams 11 & 12, 11a & 12a, and
11b & 12b to center posts 5, 6 and 6a, as well as outrigger
posts 17 & 18, 17a & 18a, and 17b & 18b.
[0057] With reference to FIG. 19, each of the illustrated connector
assemblies 40 includes an anchor 100 which is mounted in one of the
horizontal top and bottom slots 54 and 55 of center beam 2 by
vertically extending fasteners 101, a nut plate 102, and a T-nut
103 having an outer head portion 104 received in the vertical
T-slot 86 on an associated flange 81 of center post 5, and a body
portion 105 detachably connected with anchor 100 by horizontally
extending fasteners 106. Connector assemblies 40 provide a very
rigid interconnection between center beam 2 and center post 5 which
is readily detachable, and also permits vertical adjustment of the
position of center beam 2 along the length of center post 5.
[0058] With reference to FIGS. 7-9, each T-nut 103 has a generally
T-shaped plan configuration, wherein body portion 105 has
substantially rectangular sidewalls 107, a substantially
rectangular rear wall 108, and a substantially rectangular head
portion 104 which includes outer wing areas 109 that project
laterally outwardly from the sides 107 of body 105 and include
inwardly extending arcuate ribs 110 along opposite sides 111, which
are configured to be closely received within the arcuate clamping
portions 60 and 61 of center beams 2 and 2a, outrigger beams 11
& 12, 11a & 12a, and 11b & 12b, center posts 5, 6 and
6a, and outrigger posts 17 & 18, 17a & 18a, and 17b &
18b. The forward wall or face 112 of T-nut 103 has beveled side
edges 113 and generally flat top and bottom edges 114. A threaded
aperture 115 extends through the rear wall 108 of T-nut 103 into
body 105 at a generally central location, and is configured to
threadedly receive therein the threaded end of an associated
fastener 106.
[0059] With reference to FIGS. 11-15, the illustrated anchor 100
has a generally rectangular plan configuration defined by opposite
ends 120, and opposite sides 121 which are spaced apart so as to be
closely received within the upper and lower slots 54 and 55 of
center beam 2 in the manner illustrated in FIG. 18. Each anchor 100
has a step-shaped side elevational configuration defined by an
inclined forward portion 122 and a notched rearward portion 123.
With reference to FIG. 11, the forward portion 122 of the
illustrated anchor 100 includes a central recess 125 which extends
from the forward end 120 of anchor 100 to a perpendicularly
extending anchor wall 126, which includes a horizontally extending
fastener aperture 127 through which an associated fastener 106 is
received. The forward portion 122 of the illustrated anchor 100
includes a vertical fastener aperture 129 extending through recess
125 with a mating circular boss 130 at the opposite end thereof,
which projects outwardly from the lower surface 131 of anchor 100
and is adapted to be closely received within an associated one of
the fastener apertures 62, 63 in center beam 2. The rearward
portion 123 of the illustrated anchor 100 also includes a
vertically extending aperture 132 with a circular boss 133 at the
opposite end thereof which is shaped to be closely received within
one of the vertical apertures 62, 63 in center beam 2.
[0060] The illustrated nut plate 102 has a substantially
rectangular plan configuration defined by opposite ends 140 and
opposite sides 141 which are shaped to be closely received within
the notches 70 and 73 of center beam 2. Each of the illustrated nut
plates 102 includes a pair of threaded apertures 142 extending
laterally therethrough at a medial portion of the associated nut
plate 102, which are configured to threadedly receive therein
associated fasteners 101.
[0061] As best illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 19, the end 3 of center
beam 2 is attached to center post 5 in the following manner. A pair
of nut plates 102 are inserted into the slots 70 and 73 at the end
3 of center beam 2 and positioned so that threaded apertures 142
are vertically aligned with the vertical apertures 62 and 63 at the
end 3 of center beam 2. A pair of anchors 100 are positioned in the
T-slots 54 and 55 in the upper and lower faces 50 and 51 of center
beam 2, with fastener apertures 129 and 132 aligned with the
vertical apertures 62 and 63 at the end 3 of center beam 2, as well
as the apertures 142 in nut plates 102. Fasteners 101 are then
inserted through the fastener apertures 129 and 132 in anchors 100
through the vertical apertures 62 and 63 in center beam 2 and
threadedly engaged into the apertures 142 of nut plates 102 to
securely, yet detachably, mount anchors 100 on center beam 2. A
pair of T-nuts 103 are inserted into the vertical T-slot 86 on a
selected one of the flanges 81 of center post 5 at a selected
location. In the illustrated example, the upper T-nut 103 is
positioned in T-slot 86 so as to support center beam 2 in a
generally flush or horizontally aligned relationship with the top
of center post 5. Fasteners 106 are then inserted through the
apertures 127 in the anchor wall 126 of anchors 100 and into the
threaded apertures 115 in T-nuts 103 to securely, yet detachably,
mount the end 3 of center beam 2 to center post 5.
[0062] As noted above, the opposite end 4 of center beam 2 is
attached to center post 6 in a similar fashion, and the opposite
ends of outrigger beams 11 & 12, 11a & 12a, and 11b &
12b are attached to outrigger posts 17 & 18, 17a & 18a, and
17b & 18b, as well as center posts 6a, in a similar
fashion.
[0063] Preferably, the inner ends 15 and 16 of outrigger beams 11
& 12, 11a & 12a, and 11b & 12b are attached to center
posts 5, 6 and 6a at locations vertically below the top surface 50
of center beam 2, such that at least a portion of center beam 2
extends upwardly above worksurfaces 23 and 24 in the manner
illustrated in FIG. 1, so as to facilitate attachment of selected
accessories 150. Accessories 150 can be supported in either of the
two side T-slots 64 and 65 of center beams 2 and 2a or the top
T-slot 54. In the illustrated example, accessories 150 include task
lights 151, document management trays 152, shelves 153 and visual
partitions or screens 154. It is to be understood that table 1 is
adapted to mount thereon a wide variety of different types of
accessories, as illustrated and described in Applicants' related
application Ser. Nos. 10/087,324 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,914),
10/753,663 and 11/122,899, and the same can be located at various
locations along the length of center beams 2 and 2a.
[0064] With reference to FIGS. 20-22, the illustrated worksurfaces
23 and 24 are at least partially supported on frame 41 by
vertically adjustable worksurface support brackets 160. The
illustrated worksurface support brackets 160 are substantially
identical to the support brackets disclosed in Applicants' related
application Ser. Nos. 10/087,324 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,914) and
10/753,663, which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. More
specifically, each illustrated worksurface bracket 160 includes a
U-shaped body 161 having an upstanding, flat tab 162 at the upper
end thereof which is closely received within one of the horizontal
hanger slots 64 and 65 of an associated one of the center beams 2
and 2a, and a T-nut assembly 163 at the lower end thereof which is
received within T-slot 55 at the bottom surface of one of the
center beams 2 and 2a so as to securely, yet detachably, mount body
161 on an associated one of the center beams 2 and 2a at a variety
of different locations along the length thereof. An L-shaped jaw
164 is slidingly received and retained within body 161 by
horizontally oriented fasteners 165 which extend through an
associated slot 166 in the vertical portion of jaw 164 to permit
jaw 164 to shift vertically relative to body 161. Jaw 164 also
includes a horizontal leg 167 with upstanding fasteners 168 which
are anchored in the bottom of worksurfaces 23 and 24. By releasing
fasteners 165, the vertical position of jaw 164, along with the
associated worksurface 23, 24, can be varied relative to the center
beam 2, 2a on which body 161 is mounted.
[0065] In the table 1 illustrated in FIGS. 1-3, worksurfaces 23 and
24 are supported on frame 41 in the following manner. At least two
support brackets 160 are mounted along the inside edges 25 and 26
of each worksurface 23 and 24 in a laterally spaced apart
relationship, and attach the same to center beams 2 and 2a. A
sufficient number of support brackets 160 are used to provide
adequate support for worksurfaces 23 and 24, depending upon the
specific application contemplated. In the example illustrated in
FIG. 1, four support brackets 160 are provided for the inside edge
25 of worksurface 23, and four support brackets 160 are provided
for the inside edge 26 of worksurface 24. The end segments 27 and
28 of worksurfaces 23 and 24 are abuttingly supported on the upper
ends 21 and 22 of outrigger posts 17 & 18 and 17b & 18b. In
a similar manner, the central portions of worksurfaces 23 and 24
are abuttingly supported on the tops of outrigger posts 17a and
17b. Tie plates (not shown) may be used to positively, yet
detachably, connect the bottom surfaces of worksurfaces 23 and 24
to the upper ends of outrigger posts 17 & 18, 17a & 18a,
and 17b & 18b. The outside edges 29 and 30 of worksurfaces 23
and 24 protrude outwardly from the outrigger posts 17, 18, 17a,
18a, 17b and 18b, and thereby are supported in a cantilevered
fashion so as to extend freely along the exterior of the
worksurfaces to permit unencumbered access to the worksurfaces
anywhere along outside edges 29 and 30.
[0066] With reference to FIGS. 1-3, table 1 may be equipped with
both power and data to support electronic equipment, such as
telephones, computers, lighting, and the like. In the illustrated
example, U-shaped frames 170 are supported from the T-channels 55'
in the bottom edges of one or more of the outrigger beams 11 &
12, 11a & 12a, and 11b & 12b at a desired location
therealong. Power boxes 171 are mounted in the lower portions of
frames 170, and plates 172 are mounted on opposite sides of frames
170, and include a plurality of data ports 173 and power outlet
receptacles 174. In the example illustrated in FIG. 2, a floor
mounted monument 175 is provided to route wiring to receptacles 173
and 174. U-shaped shrouds 176 are provided to enclose the spaces
between outrigger posts 11 & 12, 11a & 12a, and 12b &
12b and center posts 5, 6 and 6a, so as to conceal and protect the
wiring associated with receptacles 173 and 174. Preferably, a
longitudinally extending space or gap is formed between the inside
edges 25 and 26 of worksurfaces 23 and 24 and the exterior faces 52
and 53 of center beams 2 and 2a through which wires may be routed
from shrouds 176 to the accessories 150 mounted on center beams 2
and 2a, as disclosed in Applicants' related application Ser. No.
11/112,899. It is to be understood that power and data may also be
routed longitudinally along the center of table 1 by supporting the
same from the T-slot 54 in the bottom of center beams 2, 2a.
[0067] The reference numeral 1c (FIGS. 23-25) generally designates
another embodiment of the present invention, having side-by-side,
vertically adjustable worksurfaces 23c. Since table 1c is similar
to the previously described table 1, similar parts appearing in
FIGS. 1-22 and FIGS. 23-25, respectively, are represented by the
same, corresponding reference numerals, except for the suffix "c"
in the numerals of the latter. In table 1c, worksurface 23c (FIG.
25) is vertically adjustable relative to center beam 2c. More
specifically, vertically adjustable worksurface brackets 160c, as
described hereinabove, are positioned along the rear edges 25c of
worksurfaces 23c, and provide vertical adjustability with respect
to the same. Furthermore, at least a pair of outrigger posts 18c
associated with the vertical adjustable worksurfaces 23c include
two vertically adjustable support pads 180 and 181, which are
telescopingly mounted in the upper ends of outrigger posts 18c, and
are independently vertically adjustable to support the end edges
95c of worksurfaces 23c at selected elevations. Laterally adjacent
worksurfaces 23c can thereby be positioned along a single center
beam 2c at different heights, as shown in FIG. 25, to accommodate
for specific tasks.
[0068] The reference numeral 1d (FIG. 26) generally designates yet
another embodiment of the present invention having associated
storage, which is similar to that disclosed in Applicants' related
application Ser. No. 11/122,899. Since table 1d is similar to the
previously described table 1, similar parts appearing in FIGS. 1-22
and FIG. 26, respectively, are represented by the same,
corresponding reference numerals, except for the suffix "d" in the
numerals of the latter. Table 1d is configured to support
associated storage, which in the illustrated example, includes
generally rectangularly-shaped elevated cabinets 185 and 186. A
floor supported cabinet 187 is positioned adjacent to and
integrated with one end of table 1d, but is not supported thereby.
Elevated cabinets 185 are overhead cabinets that are supported at
opposite ends by vertically extending posts 188, which are
connected with the center beam 2d using the upper T-slot 54d.
Cabinets 186 are at worksurface height, and have one end supported
abuttingly on the worksurfaces 23d and 24d, and the opposite end
supported by legs 189 which engage the floor surface.
[0069] The reference numeral 1e (FIGS. 27-29) generally designates
yet another embodiment of the present invention having a storage
support post which wraps around the associated center beam 2e.
Since table 1e is similar to the previously described table 1,
similar parts appearing in FIGS. 1-22 and FIGS. 27-29,
respectively, are represented by the same corresponding reference
numerals, except for the suffix "e" in the numerals of the latter.
In table 1e, overhead storage cabinet 195 is supported by a pair of
posts 196, which have upper ends 197 attached to the lower surface
of cabinet 195 at opposite ends thereof, and lower ends 198 with
slots 199 that are received over center beam 2e. A T-shaped key 200
is mounted in the lower T-slot 55e on center beam 2e, and is
attached to the lower end of posts 196 by an associated end cover
201 and fasteners 202. A cap or shroud 203 is positioned at the
upper end 197 of each post 196 to cover the interface with the
lower surface of cabinet 195.
[0070] The reference numeral 1f generally designates yet another
embodiment of the present invention, having an exposed wireway.
Since table 1f is similar to the previously described table 1,
similar parts appearing in FIGS. 1-22 and FIGS. 30-32,
respectively, are represented by the same, corresponding reference
numerals, except for the suffix "f" in the numerals of the latter.
Table 1f includes a pair of exposed wireway channels 210 which
extend between a center post 5f and an outrigger post 18f directly
below the associated outrigger beam 12f on opposite sides thereof.
In the illustrated example, wireways 210 have a substantially
identical construction, and include generally C-shaped channels
211, having a pair of openings or windows 212 through which power
outlet receptacles 213 protrude. A frame 214 is mounted in the
lower T-slot 51f of outrigger beam 12f, and is adapted to support
receptacle 213 thereon. Both ends of each of the wireways 210
include a slotted end cap 215 which mounts channels 211 to center
post 5f and outrigger post 18f. The vertically oriented slots 216
in end caps 215 are received over the associated outwardly
protruding flanges 80f-83f of center post 5f and outrigger post
18f. A pair of U-shaped shrouds 217 are provided to enclose wires
extending between the floor and the wireways 210, and are
configured to be mounted on the inwardly extending flanges 80f-83f
of center post 5f and outrigger post 18f in the manner illustrated
in FIG. 30.
[0071] Tables 1-1d may be made in the following manner. A plurality
of center beams 2 and 2a are cut from channel stock into lengths
commensurate with the length desired between associated center
posts 5 and 6. A plurality of outrigger beams 11, 12, 11a, 12a,
11b, and 12b are similarly cut to length from the same channel
stock, but in shorter lengths in accordance with the desired width
of the table. A plurality of center post members 5, 6 and 6a are
cut to length from X-shaped channel at a length commensurate with
the height at which the center beams 2 and 2a are to be supported.
The outrigger posts 17, 18, 17a, 18a, 17b, and 18b are similarly
cut from the same X-shaped channel to a length commensurate with
the height at which worksurfaces 23 and 24 are to be supported.
Feet 90 are attached to the lower ends of center posts 5, 6 and 6a,
as well as outrigger posts 17, 18, 17a, 18a, 17b, and 18b.
Connector assemblies 40 are then used to interconnect each of the
center beams 2, 2a with the center posts 5, 6 and 6a in the manner
described above. Outrigger beams 11, 12, 11a, 12a, 11b, and 12b are
then connected with the center posts 5, 6 and 6a, as well as the
outrigger posts 17, 18, 17a, 18a, 17b, and 18b, using connector
assemblies 40. Worksurfaces 23 and 24 are then formed and/or
selected of an appropriate length and width commensurate with the
desired dimensions of the table. In the example illustrated in FIG.
1, worksurfaces 23 and 24 extend all the way between the opposite
end center posts 5 and 6a. However, worksurfaces 23 and 24 may be
slit or bifurcated at their centers, so that the inward edges are
supported by the center outrigger beams 11a and 12a and associated
outrigger posts 17a and 17b. In any event, the selected
worksurfaces 23 and 24 are operably connected with center beams 2
and 2a, as well as the upper ends of outrigger posts 17, 18, 17a,
18a, 17b, and 18b, in the manner described hereinabove.
[0072] Tables 1-1d can therefore be made in a wide variety of
different shapes and sizes using parts which are not only common to
one another, but also common to the related post and beam furniture
system disclosed in Applicants' prior application Ser. Nos.
10/087,324 (now U.S. Pat. No. 6,751,914) and 10/753,663. Tables
1-1d therefore present a common aesthetic appearance which permits
the furniture systems to be used in close proximity and in various
configurations. Furthermore, tables 1-1d are capable of using
accessories common with Applicants' related furniture systems, such
that they can be easily and quickly interchanged among the tables
1-1d and related post and beam furniture systems.
[0073] As will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the
foregoing description, tables 1-1d may be provided in a wide
variety of different shapes and sizes. For example, the various
segments of the frame can be interconnected to create tables with
not only rectangular configurations, but also tables having "L",
"T", "X", zigzag and other similar plan shapes. The worksurfaces
may also be configured to provide corner surfaces, and may assume a
wide variety of different geometric shapes, including, but not
limited to, rectangular, square, triangular, round, oval,
elliptical, etc., as well as nonsymmetrical shapes. Consequently,
tables 1-1d can be configured to support many varied applications,
and can even be reconfigured into different shapes if desired.
[0074] In the foregoing description, it will be readily appreciated
by those skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the
invention without departing from the concepts disclosed herein.
Such modifications are to be considered as included in the
following claims, unless these claims by their language expressly
state otherwise.
* * * * *