U.S. patent application number 11/893687 was filed with the patent office on 2008-01-17 for partition panel with modular appliance mounting arrangement.
Invention is credited to Larry Cheng, Energy II Cruse, Thomas B. Eich, Jesse A. Fourt, David M. Gresham, Alex T. Grishaver, Joseph Lishing Hei, Matthew D. Inouye, Katherine J. Kuchenbecker, James N. Ludwig, Bruce G. MacGregor, Sven D. Newman, Juan Carlos Bruce Novoa, Todd A. Pelman, Alexey Salamini, Franz Niklaus Schulz, Benjamin J. V. Tarbell, David M. Webster, Scott A. Whitman.
Application Number | 20080010923 11/893687 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 27732532 |
Filed Date | 2008-01-17 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080010923 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MacGregor; Bruce G. ; et
al. |
January 17, 2008 |
Partition panel with modular appliance mounting arrangement
Abstract
A freestanding partition panel for dividing a floor space
includes a rigid partition frame having vertical side frame members
and first and second horizontal frame members extending between the
vertical side frame members to form a vertically enlarged opening
through the frame, and an open space within the panel. At least one
intermediate horizontal cross member extends across the vertically
enlarged opening and defines upper and lower openings through the
frame. The intermediate cross member and at least a selected one of
the first and second horizontal frame members include a plurality
of horizontally spaced apart attachment locations defining a
plurality of discrete, serially adjacent mounting spaces. The
partition panel further includes a utility unit that is mountable
in a selected one of the mounting spaces. The partition panel
further includes a first cover panel secured to the partition frame
and extending horizontally between the side edge of the utility
unit and the selected vertical side frame member. The first cover
panel is connected to the intermediate horizontal cross member and
extends vertically between the intermediate horizontal cross member
and the selected one of the first and second members. A second
cover panel is secured to the partition frame, and extends
horizontally between the vertical side frame members. The second
cover panel extends vertically between the intermediate horizontal
cross member and the other of the selected one of the first and
second horizontal members.
Inventors: |
MacGregor; Bruce G.; (Palo
Alto, CA) ; Novoa; Juan Carlos Bruce; (Cupertino,
CA) ; Cheng; Larry; (Mountain View, CA) ;
Cruse; Energy II; (Foster City, CA) ; Eich; Thomas
B.; (Palo Alto, CA) ; Fourt; Jesse A.; (Palo
Alto, CA) ; Gresham; David M.; (East Grand Rapids,
MI) ; Grishaver; Alex T.; (Daly City, CA) ;
Hei; Joseph Lishing; (Palo Alto, CA) ; Inouye;
Matthew D.; (Foster City, CA) ; Kuchenbecker;
Katherine J.; (Menlo Park, CA) ; Ludwig; James
N.; (East Grand Rapids, MI) ; Newman; Sven D.;
(Menlo Park, CA) ; Pelman; Todd A.; (San
Francisco, CA) ; Salamini; Alexey; (San Francisco,
CA) ; Schulz; Franz Niklaus; (St Gallen, CH) ;
Tarbell; Benjamin J. V.; (Menlo Park, CA) ; Whitman;
Scott A.; (Palo Alto, CA) ; Webster; David M.;
(San Francisco, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PRICE HENEVELD COOPER DEWITT & LITTON, LLP
695 KENMOOR, S.E.
P O BOX 2567
GRAND RAPIDS
MI
49501
US
|
Family ID: |
27732532 |
Appl. No.: |
11/893687 |
Filed: |
August 17, 2007 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10984518 |
Nov 9, 2004 |
|
|
|
11893687 |
Aug 17, 2007 |
|
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|
10076709 |
Feb 15, 2002 |
6851226 |
|
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10984518 |
Nov 9, 2004 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
52/239 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A47B 83/001 20130101;
E04B 2002/7483 20130101; E04B 2002/7488 20130101; A47B 2083/006
20130101; E04B 2/7435 20130101; E04B 2002/7487 20130101; F16M
11/2014 20130101; F16M 2200/065 20130101; F16M 13/02 20130101; E04B
2002/749 20130101; F16M 2200/061 20130101; F16M 11/046 20130101;
F16M 11/041 20130101; F16M 11/2092 20130101; E04B 2/7422
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
052/239 |
International
Class: |
E04H 1/12 20060101
E04H001/12 |
Claims
1-63. (canceled)
64. A partition panel for open office space and the like,
comprising: a rigid frame adapted to be supported in a generally
vertical orientation on an associated floor surface to partition
the open office space into individual workstations, and including:
a marginal frame portion extending about the periphery of said
frame, and defining interior and opposite exterior faces; and an
appliance mounting grid portion disposed within said interior of
said marginal frame portion, and configured to divide at least a
portion of said interior into a plurality of serially adjacent
mounting spaces having a substantially identical size and shape;
said mounting spaces being arranged in a plurality of columns and a
plurality of rows; a plurality of modular appliance members, each
having: a similarly configured mounting portion thereof adapted to
be positioned on said frame at preselected ones of said mounting
spaces; a finished cover portion thereof disposed generally
parallel with one of said faces of said frame, and enclosing the
associated one of said mounting spaces; and an accessory portion
thereof configured to functionally equip an associated one of the
workstations; and connectors detachably mounting said modular
appliance members to said frame at said preselected ones of said
mounting spaces, such that said modular appliance members can be
readily removed from said frame and reattached thereto at different
ones of said mounting spaces to reconfigure said partition panel
for a wide variety of different applications.
65. A partition panel as set forth in claim 64, wherein: said
accessory portion has at least a portion thereof extending into and
housed within said interior of said frame.
66. A partition panel as set forth in claim 65, wherein: said
columns of said mounting spaces are disposed in a generally
vertical orientation.
67. A partition panel as set forth in claim 66, wherein: said rows
of said mounting spaces are disposed in a generally horizontal
orientation.
68. A partition panel as set forth in claim 67, including: a cover
disposed generally parallel with said one face of said frame and
enclosing the remaining ones of said mounting spaces.
69. A partition panel as set forth in claim 68, wherein: said
modular appliance members include differently configured accessory
portions to equip the associated workstation with a variety of
different work tools.
70. A partition panel as set forth in claim 69, wherein: said cover
includes a plurality of individual cover members configured to
enclose at least one, but not all, of said mounting spaces.
71. A partition panel as set forth in claim 64, wherein: said
columns of said mounting spaces are disposed in a generally
vertical orientation.
72. A partition panel as set forth in claim 64, wherein: said rows
of said mounting spaces are disposed in a generally horizontal
orientation.
73. A partition panel as set forth in claim 64, including: a cover
disposed generally parallel with said one face of said frame and
enclosing the remaining ones of said mounting spaces.
74. A partition panel as set forth in claim 64, wherein: said
modular appliance members include differently configured accessory
portions to equip the associated workstation with a variety of
different work tools.
75. A partition panel as set forth in claim 64, wherein: said cover
includes a plurality of individual cover members configured to
enclose at least one, but not all, of said mounting spaces.
76. In a partition system of the type having a plurality of panels
detachably interconnected to partition open floor space into
individual workstations, the improvement of a partition panel,
comprising: a rigid frame adapted to be supported in a generally
vertical orientation on an associated floor surface and detachably
connected with an adjacent one of said panels, and including: a
marginal frame portion extending about the periphery of said frame,
and defining interior and opposite exterior faces; and an appliance
mounting grid portion disposed within said interior of said
marginal frame portion, and configured to divide at least a portion
of said interior into a plurality of serially adjacent mounting
spaces having a substantially identical size and shape; said
mounting spaces being arranged in a plurality of columns and a
plurality of rows; a plurality of modular appliance members, each
having: a similarly configured mounting portion thereof adapted to
be positioned on said frame at preselected ones of said mounting
spaces; a finished cover portion thereof disposed generally
parallel with one of said faces of said frame, and enclosing the
associated one of said mounting spaces; and an accessory portion
thereof configured to functionally equip an associated one of the
workstations; and connectors detachably mounting said modular
appliance members to said frame at said preselected ones of said
mounting spaces, such that said modular appliance members can be
readily removed from said frame and reattached thereto at different
ones of said mounting spaces to reconfigure said partition panel
for a wide variety of different applications.
77. A partition system as set forth in claim 76, wherein: said
accessory portion has at least a portion thereof extending into and
housed within said interior of said frame.
78. A partition system as set forth in claim 77, wherein: said
columns of said mounting spaces are disposed in a generally
vertical orientation.
79. A partition system as set forth in claim 78, wherein: said rows
of said mounting spaces are disposed in a generally horizontal
orientation.
80. A partition system as set forth in claim 79, including: a cover
disposed generally parallel with said one face of said frame and
enclosing the remaining ones of said mounting spaces.
81. A partition system as set forth in claim 80, wherein: said
modular appliance members include differently configured accessory
portions to equip the associated workstation with a variety of
different work tools.
82. A partition system as set forth in claim 81, wherein: said
cover includes a plurality of individual cover members configured
to enclose at least one, but not all, of said mounting spaces.
83. A partition panel for open office space and the like,
comprising: a rigid frame adapted to be supported in a generally
vertical orientation on an associated floor surface to partition
the open office space into individual workstations, and including:
a marginal frame member extending about the periphery of said
frame, and defining an interior cavity and opposite exterior faces;
and an appliance mounting grid member shaped for reception within
said interior cavity of said marginal frame member, and configured
to divide at least a portion of said interior cavity into a
plurality of serially adjacent mounting spaces having a
substantially identical size and shape; said mounting spaces being
arranged in a plurality of columns and a plurality of rows; first
connectors detachably supporting said appliance mounting grid
member within said interior cavity of said marginal frame members;
a plurality of modular appliance members, each having: a similarly
configured mounting portion thereof adapted to be positioned on
said appliance mounting grid member at preselected ones of said
mounting spaces; a finished cover portion thereof disposed
generally parallel with one of said faces of said frame, and
enclosing the associated one of said mounting spaces; and an
accessory portion thereof configured to functionally equip an
associated one of the workstations; and second connectors
detachably mounting said modular appliance members to said
appliance mounting grid member at said preselected ones of said
mounting spaces, such that said modular appliance members can be
readily removed from said frame and reattached thereto at different
ones of said mounting spaces to reconfigure said partition panel
for a wide variety of different applications.
84. A partition panel as set forth in claim 83, wherein: said
accessory portion has at least a portion thereof extending into and
housed within said interior cavity of said frame.
85. A partition panel as set forth in claim 84, wherein: said
columns of said mounting spaces are disposed in a generally
vertical orientation.
86. A partition panel as set forth in claim 85, wherein: said rows
of said mounting spaces are disposed in a generally horizontal
orientation.
87. A partition panel as set forth in claim 86, including: a cover
disposed generally parallel with said one face of said frame and
enclosing the remaining ones of said mounting spaces.
88. A partition panel as set forth in claim 87, wherein: said
modular appliance members include differently configured accessory
portions to equip the associated workstation with a variety of
different work tools.
89. A partition panel as set forth in claim 88, wherein: said cover
includes a plurality of individual cover members configured to
enclose at least one, but not all, of said mounting spaces.
90. In a partition system for open office space and the like, the
improvement of a partition panel, comprising: at least one rigid
framework adapted to be supported in a generally vertical
orientation on an associated floor surface to partition the open
office space into individual workstations, and including: a
marginal frame portion extending about the periphery of said
framework, and defining an interior cavity and opposite exterior
faces; and an intermediate frame member disposed within said
interior cavity of said marginal frame portion, operably connected
therewith, and configured to divide at least a portion of said
interior cavity into a plurality of serially adjacent mounting
spaces having a substantially identical size and shape; a plurality
of modular appliance members, each having: a similarly configured
mounting portion thereof adapted to be positioned on said frame at
preselected ones of said mounting spaces; a finished cover portion
thereof disposed generally parallel with one of said faces of said
frame, and enclosing the associated one of said mounting spaces;
and an accessory portion thereof configured to functionally equip
an associated one of the workstations, and having at least a
portion thereof extending into and housed within said interior
cavity of said frame; a connector mechanism detachably mounting
said modular appliance members to said framework at said
preselected ones of said mounting spaces, such that said modular
appliance members can be readily removed from said framework and
reattached thereto at different ones of said mounting spaces to
reconfigure said partition panel for a wide variety of different
applications; and at least one cover disposed generally parallel
with said one face of said frame and enclosing the remaining ones
of said mounting spaces.
91. A partition system as set forth in claim 90, wherein: said
modular appliance members include differently configured accessory
portions to equip the associated workstation with a variety of
different work tools.
92. A partition system as set forth in claim 91, wherein: said
intermediate frame member is configured to define a plurality of
said mounting spaces arranged in a vertically stacked relationship
in which said modular appliance members can be interchanged.
93. A partition system as set forth in claim 92, wherein: said
cover includes a plurality of individual cover members configured
to enclose at least one, but not all, of said mounting spaces.
94. A partition system as set forth in claim 93, wherein: said
cover members include at least one single mounting space cover
configured to enclose only one of said mounting apertures.
95. A partition system as set forth in claim 94, including:
connectors detachably connecting said cover members with said
framework to permit said cover members to be readily rearranged on
said framework to accommodate a wide variety of different
technology and aesthetic applications.
96. A partition system as set forth in claim 95, including:
connectors detachably connecting said intermediate frame member
with said marginal frame portion to permit said marginal frame
portion to accommodate a wide variety of different technology and
aesthetic applications.
97. A partition system as set forth in claim 96, wherein: said
intermediate frame member includes at least one horizontal cross
member extending between and detachably connected with opposite
sides of said marginal frame portion.
98. A partition system as set forth in claim 97, wherein: said
modular appliance members include at least one electrical power
module.
99. A partition system as set forth in claim 98, wherein: said
modular appliance members include at least one electrical power and
data module.
100. A partition system as set forth in claim 99, wherein: said
modular appliance members include at least one storage module.
101. A partition system as set forth in claim 100, wherein: said
modular appliance members include at least one paper management
module.
102. A partition system as set forth in claim 101, wherein: said
modular appliance members include at least on dropdown worksurface
module.
103. A partition system as set forth in claim 102, wherein: said
modular appliance members include at least one tilt-open bin.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND CLAIM TO PRIORITY
[0001] The present application is a continuation of commonly
assigned, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/984,518, filed on
Nov. 9, 2004, entitled PARTITION PANEL WITH MODULAR APPLIANCE
MOUNTING ARRANGEMENT, which is hereby incorporated herein by
reference, and claims priority thereto under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.120,
which application is a continuation of Ser. No. 10/076,709, filed
Feb. 15, 2002, entitled PARTITION PANEL WITH MODULAR APPLIANCE
MOUNTING ARRANGEMENT, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,851,226.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to open office plans and the
like.
[0003] 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 which are readily
reconfigurable to accommodate the ever-changing needs of a specific
user, as well as the divergent requirements of different tenants.
One arrangement commonly used for furnishing open plans includes
movable partition panels which are detachably interconnected to
partition off the open spaces into individual workstations and/or
offices. Such partition panels are configured to receive hang-on
furniture units, such as worksurfaces, overhead cabinets, shelves,
etc., and are generally known in the office furniture industry as
"systems furniture". Another arrangement for dividing and/or
partitioning open plans includes modular furniture arrangements, in
which a plurality of differently shaped, freestanding furniture
units are positioned in a side-by-side relationship, with
upstanding privacy screens attached to at least some of the
furniture units to create individual, distinct workstations and/or
offices. Both of these types of modular furniture systems, as well
as others, have been widely received due largely to their ability
to be readily reconfigured and/or moved to a new site, since they
are not part of a permanent leasehold improvement.
[0004] At present, some types of furniture systems utilize vertical
rows of slots to support hang-on furniture units. Also, systems
have been developed that utilize horizontal rows of slots for
supporting hang-on furniture units such as storage units,
worksurfaces and the like. Existing furniture systems commonly
include cover panels that are attached to a partition frame to
close off the frame and provide visual and audio privacy for the
worker. However, existing furniture systems may not provide
sufficient flexibility to permit the location of the hang-on
furniture units to be readily adjusted. Furthermore, positioning of
the cover panels on existing systems may be problematic.
[0005] Considerable efforts have been made to provide the users of
such furniture systems with power and/or data connections. Existing
systems typically include worksurfaces that are utilized to support
various accessories such as phones, computer monitors, printers and
the like. In general, the worksurfaces must be relatively large to
support such equipment, such that the overall size or "footprint"
of the workspace for a given user will be quite large. The
relatively large footprint requires more floor space, leading to
more cost per user.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] One aspect of the present invention is a freestanding
partition panel for dividing a floor space. The partition panel
includes a rigid partition frame having horizontally spaced apart
vertical side frame members and vertically spaced apart first and
second horizontal frame members extending between the vertical side
frame members to form a generally quadrilateral vertically enlarged
opening through the frame, and defining an open space within the
panel. The partition panel includes at least one intermediate
horizontal cross member extending across the vertically enlarged
opening and defining an upper opening through the frame above the
intermediate horizontal cross member, and defining a lower opening
through the frame below the intermediate horizontal cross member.
The intermediate cross member and at least a selected one of the
first and second horizontal frame members include a plurality of
horizontally spaced apart attachment locations defining a plurality
of discrete, serially adjacent mounting spaces in a selected one of
the upper and lower openings through the frames within the open
space. The partition panel further includes a utility unit
connectable to selected ones of the attachment locations of the
intermediate horizontal cross member and the selected one of the
first and second horizontal members, such that the utility unit can
be mounted in a selected one of the mounting spaces. The utility
unit has a side edge spaced apart from a selected one of the
vertical side frame members. The partition panel further includes a
first cover panel secured to the partition frame and extending
horizontally between the side edge of the utility unit and the
selected vertical side frame member. The first cover panel is
connected to the intermediate horizontal cross member and extends
vertically between the intermediate horizontal cross member and the
selected one of the first and second members. A second cover panel
is secured to the partition frame, and extends horizontally between
the vertical side frame members. The second cover panel extends
vertically between the intermediate horizontal cross member and the
other of the selected one of the first and second members.
[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is a freestanding
partition panel for dividing floor space. The partition panel
includes a rigid partition frame having first and second
horizontally spaced apart vertical side frame members, and
elongated vertically spaced apart first and second horizontal
members extending between the vertical side frame members to define
an open space within the panel. The first and second horizontal
members include a plurality of horizontally spaced apart attachment
locations defining a plurality of discrete, serially adjacent
mounting spaces within the open space. A utility unit is
connectable to selected ones of the attachment locations of the
first and second horizontal members, and extends vertically between
the first and second horizontal members. The utility unit defines a
generally vertical side edge that is horizontally spaced apart from
the first vertical side frame member to define a gap therebetween.
A cover panel is secured to the partition frame, and has a first
vertical side edge proximate the vertical side edge of the utility
unit, and a second vertical side edge proximate the first vertical
side frame member. The cover panel is secured to the first and
second horizontal members and extends therebetween to substantially
close off the gap.
[0008] Yet another aspect of the present invention is a method of
configuring a partition panel. The method includes providing a
freestanding partition frame defining horizontally spaced apart
vertical side faces and an interior space between the vertical side
faces. The partition frame has first and second generally vertical
side edges that are horizontally spaced apart to define a frame
width. The partition frame has generally horizontal upper and lower
edges defining a generally quadrilateral perimeter with the
vertical side edges. The method includes dividing at least a
portion of the interior space into a plurality of serially adjacent
mounting spaces defining a horizontal row. The mounting spaces each
have substantially the same size and configuration. A plurality of
utility units is provided, each configured to be mounted into a
selected one of the mounting spaces at a selected horizontal
position. The utility units have an exterior side surface that
faces outwardly, and a generally vertical side edge and generally
horizontal upper and lower side edges defining a height. The
utility unit is secured to the partition frame in a selected one of
the mounting spaces at a selected horizontal position with the
vertical side edge of the utility unit spaced inwardly from the
first vertical side edge of the partition frame to form a first gap
defining a width that is substantially less than the frame width.
The upper side edge of the utility unit is spaced downwardly from
the upper edge of the partition frame to form an upper gap having a
width about the same as the frame width. The lower side edge of the
utility unit is spaced upwardly from the lower edge of the
partition frame to form a lower gap having a width about the same
as the frame width. A first cover panel having a width
substantially equal to the first gap is provided. The first cover
panel has a height substantially the same as the height of the
utility unit. The first cover panel is installed to the partition
frame to substantially close off the first gap. An upper cover
panel is installed to the frame to substantially close off the
upper gap, and a lower cover panel is secured to the partition
frame to substantially close off the lower gap.
[0009] Yet another aspect of the present invention is a flat
display screen for mounting to partitions. The arrangement includes
a flat display screen adapted to provide images. First and second
support arms each have first and second links pivotably
interconnected. Each first link has an end adapted to be pivotably
mounted to a partition for pivoting about a substantially vertical
axis. Each second link has an end pivotably connected to the
display screen, and the first and second support arms support the
display screen for movement in the horizontal direction between a
stored position and a use position.
[0010] These and other features, advantages, and objects of the
present 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
[0011] FIG. 1 is a partially exploded, perspective view of a
partition panel system with a modular appliance mounting
arrangement embodying the present invention;
[0012] FIGS. 1A-1AE are perspective views of modular appliance
units according to the present invention;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a front elevational view of a partition frame;
[0014] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the partition frame of FIG.
2;
[0015] FIG. 4 is a bottom plan view of the partition frame of FIG.
2;
[0016] FIG. 5 is a right elevational view of the partition frame of
FIG. 2;
[0017] FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the partition
frame of FIG. 2;
[0018] FIG. 7 is a fragmentary, top plan view of a structural
intermediate horizontal beam;
[0019] FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of the structural
intermediate beam of FIG. 7;
[0020] FIG. 9A is a cross-sectional view taken along the line
IXA-IXA; FIG. 8;
[0021] FIG. 9B is a schematic view of the partition frame of FIG.
2;
[0022] FIG. 10 is an exploded, fragmentary view showing an
intermediate beam having a safety clip;
[0023] FIG. 11 is a fragmentary view of a partition frame with two
modular appliance units mounted thereto;
[0024] FIG. 12 is a fragmentary, perspective view of a modular
appliance unit having storage features;
[0025] FIG. 12A is a cross-sectional view of a tray and lid taken
along the line XIIA-XIIA;
[0026] FIG. 12;
[0027] FIG. 13A is a fragmentary view of a modular appliance unit
having power and data outlets and wire management features;
[0028] FIG. 13B is a schematic view of the cover panel that may be
utilized to close off the modular appliance unit of FIG. 13A;
[0029] FIG. 14 is a fragmentary view of the cover panel mounting
bracket of FIG. 13A taken along the line XIV-XIV;
[0030] FIG. 15 is a fragmentary, perspective view of a modular
appliance unit having a flat screen display and articulating
support arm;
[0031] FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the articulating support
arm of FIG. 15 in the fully extended position;
[0032] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the articulating support
arm of FIG. 15 in the fully retracted position;
[0033] FIG. 18 is a fragmentary, exploded, perspective view of a
portion of the arm assemblies of FIG. 15;
[0034] FIG. 19 is a schematic top view of the friction rollers of
FIG. 18;
[0035] FIG. 20 is an exploded, fragmentary, perspective view
showing the friction rollers of FIG. 18;
[0036] FIG. 21 is a schematic end view of a partition panel showing
a pair of modular appliance units mounted on opposite sides of the
partition panel;
[0037] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
cover panel mounting bracket;
[0038] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a
cover panel mounting bracket;
[0039] FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of another alternate
embodiment of a cover panel mounting bracket;
[0040] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of the cover panel mounting
bracket of FIG. 24;
[0041] FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of the cover panel
mounting bracket of FIG. 24 from a rear side thereof;
[0042] FIG. 27 is a side view of the bracket of FIG. 22
illustrating the installation of the bracket between a pair of
horizontal beams;
[0043] FIG. 28 is a side view of the bracket of FIG. 22
illustrating the installation of the bracket between a pair of
horizontal beams.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0044] The present application is related to patent application
Ser. No. 10/077,553, entitled PANEL SYSTEM, filed on Feb. 2, 2002,
now U.S. Pat. No. 6,684,929, the entire contents of which are
hereby incorporated herein by reference.
[0045] 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. Hence, specific dimensions
and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments
disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the
claims expressly state otherwise.
[0046] The reference numeral 1 (FIG. 1) designates a partition
system 1 including a plurality of partition panels 2. Each of the
partition panels 2 includes a partition frame 3, each of which may
include one or more intermediate beams 4, and one or more cover
panels 6. One or more modular appliance units such as a flat screen
monitor 7, power module 8, or storage module 9 may be mounted to
the intermediate beams 4 and/or horizontal frame members 13, 14 at
a selected horizontal location. In addition to the full width
"segmented" cover panels 6, one or more smaller width cover panels
10 may be utilized to close off the gap that would otherwise exist
adjacent the modular accessory units 7, 8, and 9. Cover panels 10
have the same height as the modular accessory units, and a width as
required to close off the gap between the vertical side edge of the
modular accessory unit and an adjacent vertical frame member 12. If
required for a particular application, a plurality of modular
accessory units may be mounted to the frame in a side-by-side
manner extending across the entire width of the frame 3, such that
smaller cover panels 10 are not required. Although the modular
accessory units 7, 8 and 9 are illustrated as being positioned at
the same height, as described in more detail below, the accessory
units may be positioned at various different heights as required by
the user.
[0047] In addition to the flat screen modular accessory unit 7,
power and data modular accessory unit 8, and storage modular
accessory unit 9, additional modular accessory units may be
utilized to provide a wide variety of features to enhance the work
environment. Various modular accessory units according to the
present invention are illustrated in FIGS. 1A-1AE. The modular
accessory units may comprise various high tech devices to
facilitate data flow through the adjacent work areas and the like.
Other electronic modular accessory units may be utilized to control
the temperature, noise, or other environmental conditions within
the work area to thereby optimize a user's comfort and
productivity. A modular appliance unit comprising "Polycom"-style
voice conferencing system 1A suitable for small group space is
illustrated in FIG. 1A, and an integrated Plantronics-style
wireless headset 1A that reduces clutter from around the phone is
illustrated in FIG. 1B. A small touchscreen appliance 1C for the
communication of graphic, video and audio data is illustrated in
FIG. 1C, and a modular accessory unit with an integrated,
vertically oriented printer 1D for personal printing is illustrated
in FIG. 1D. The data lines for the printer may be routed within the
panel to the computer. The printer permits convenient, private
printing of documents.
[0048] Modular appliance units for controlling noise within the
work area include a white noise generator 1E to reduce perceived
distraction by increasing the ambient noise level as illustrated in
FIG. 1E. A wall-mounted speaker 1F with controls 2F is illustrated
in FIG. 1F. The horizontally and vertically selectable mounting
arrangement of the modular appliance units permits optimal
positioning of the speakers 1F in the workspace.
[0049] Various network hubs may be utilized to provide a common
connection point for the devices on the network. The hubs provide
information sharing a distributed feedback. These appliance units
can be selectively mounted at an optimum vertical and horizontal
position without cluttering the workspace. A modular accessory unit
comprising an integrated OEM Bluetooth, 802.11, or other wireless
networking hub 1G is illustrated in FIG. 1G. The distribution of
this hub is based on coverage area and the number of devices in
use. The bluetooth unit may be mounted adjacent the upper edge of
the partition to properly position the antenna. An infrared network
hub is illustrated in FIG. 1H. The IR hub may be mounted at a
central height to provide line-of-sight access to peripherals. A
USB hub 11 with integrated cable management is illustrated in FIG.
1I. A status indicator 1J for phone, privacy, voice-mail, etc. is
illustrated in FIG. 1J. The status indicator is positioned at the
upper edge of the partition panel, and a light or the like
indicates a phone-in-use condition to others in the area. FIG. 1K
shows a passive-infrared motion detector that may be operatively
connected to an alarm system, lighting control, and occupant status
and location information. A thermometer and thermostat for
controlling local heaters and fans to provide an optimal work
environment is illustrated in FIG. 1L. A modular accessory unit
comprising a distributed temperature sensor with display is
illustrated in FIG. 1M. The distributed temperature sensor provides
for control of the HVAC system within the office area. An infrared
control/light switch for overhead lighting is illustrated in FIG.
1N. The lighting system used with the IR control is outfitted with
an IR receiver, and implicit zonal control of the overhead lighting
system can be achieved by modifying the shape of the IR beam. Still
further, a tip-out lighting fixture to provide both task and
ambient light is illustrated in FIG. 10. The tip-out lighting
fixture may be a low-voltage halogen unit providing optimum
lighting conditions on the worksurface without cluttering the
worksurface. With reference to FIG. 1P, a small space-heater IP
with an integrated thermometer may be utilized to provide
consistent temperature control within the work area. Louvers for
directing the flow, a control for the speed, and optional remote
temperature sensor and/or control is also illustrated in FIG. 1P.
The space-heater may be a two way heater providing heat to both
sides of the partition. The modular mounting feature permits
positioning of the heater at an optimal location, such as directly
below the worksurface or adjacent the lower edge of the partition.
A fan to provide airflow directed at the occupant and louvers to
control direction/flow rate is illustrated in FIG. 1Q. The fan is
preferably capable of providing slow airflow, and may be mounted
above the worksurface.
[0050] Other modular accessory units according to the present
invention facilitate routing, access, and management of utility
lines in the work area. A slatwall support surface 1R with
translucent tilt-away section 2R for access to power and/or data
receptacles positioned within the partition panel is illustrated in
FIG. 1R. The slatwall facilitates utilization of space behind the
surface. A cable trough 1S for management of peripheral cables 2S
and the like within the beltway 3S is illustrated in FIG. 1S, and a
storage cabinet 1T with a pivotably mounted whiteboard door surface
2T is illustrated in FIG. 1T. The storage cabinet provides
convenient, private storage of personal items such as medicines,
keys, and the like, as well as office items. With reference to FIG.
1V, the modular accessory unit may comprise a storage unit 1U with
a clear panel 2U for display purposes. Various personal or
decorative items may be placed in the storage unit for display to
personalize the work area. A secure storage cabinet 1V with
lockable door 2V and adjustable shelves 3V is illustrated in FIG.
1V. A modular accessory unit comprising a receptacle 1W for papers,
magazines, and the like is illustrated in FIG. 1W, and a
"mail-slot" modular accessory unit 1X is illustrated in FIG. 1X. A
retaining member 2X is pivotably mounted at the lower portion
thereof to permit pass-through of papers 3X or the like between
co-workers or from a public to a private space.
[0051] Various other types of modular appliance units may also be
utilized to control, monitor and/or restrict access and/or privacy
between adjacent workspaces as required for a particular
application or office environment. For example, a small window
providing visual and aural access through the panel is illustrated
in FIG. 1Y. With reference to FIG. 1Z, a small window 1Z provides
controlled visual access through the panel by using an LCD glass
panel 2Z that can be made clear rather than translucent. With
further reference to FIG. 1AA, a window 1AA provides visual and
aural access through the panel with access being controlled by a
tambour door 2AA. With reference to FIG. 1AB, a small window 1AB
provides visual and aural access through the panel with access
being controlled with a mini-blind shade 2AB. A window 1AC with a
dot-pattern screen to provide limited visibility through the panel
is illustrated in FIG. 1AC. Rather than replacing a full-size
window, these windows allow for discreet communication between
adjacent workspaces.
[0052] In addition to the access and/or privacy control
arrangements described above, the modular accessory units may also
comprise various seating units or the like that may be utilized to
provide seating space for users when required, yet be storable in
the partition when not required to conserve space. With reference
to FIG. 1AD, a fold-out seat 1AD may be utilized to accommodate
temporary visitors. The fold-out seat allows for group interactions
without having to find an extra chair when working individually. A
fold-out seat to accommodate group seating for temporary visitors
is illustrated in FIG. 1AE. Such accessory units facilitate
movement of objects and workflow off the desktop or worksurface and
into the partition panel. Thus, a wide range of modular accessory
units may be provided as required by a particular user.
[0053] With further reference to FIG. 2A, each partition frame 3
includes a pair of vertical side frame members 12, and upper and
lower horizontal frame members 13, 14, respectively, that extend
between and rigidly interconnect the vertical side frame members 12
to form a generally quadrilateral perimeter. As described in detail
in the above-referenced application Ser. No. 10/077,553, entitled
PANEL SYSTEM, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,684,929, vertical side frame
members 12 include a plurality of openings 15-18 for mounting cover
panels 6, and horizontal frame members 13 and 14 include a
plurality of openings 19 and 20. The openings 15-20 receive clips
(not shown) on the cover panels 6 to thereby retain the cover
panels 6 on the partition frame 3. The vertical side frame members
12 include a plurality of openings 21 (FIG. 5) that permit utility
lines such as power and/or data lines to be fed horizontally
through the vertical frame members 12 between adjacent partition
frames 3. Similarly, upper frame member 13 includes openings 22
(FIG. 3), and lower frame member 14 includes openings 23 (FIG. 4)
to permit vertical pass-through of power and/or data lines at the
upper and lower edges, respectively, of the partition frame 3. A
channel 24 (FIG. 5) extends along the upper horizontal frame member
13 to provide for horizontal lay-in of utility lines along the
upper edge of the partition frame 3. Similarly, vertical side frame
members 12 include vertically extending channels 25 (FIG. 3) to
permit vertical routing of utility lines along the side edges of
the partition frame 3. Upper horizontal cross member 13 includes a
horizontal row of slots 27 (FIG. 2), and lower horizontal cross
member 14 includes a row of horizontal slots 28. Vertical frame
member 12 includes openings 39 and 40 that align with the
horizontal row of slots in the intermediate cross member 26 to
provide a continuous horizontal row of slots without "dead zones"
at the vertical frame members 12 (see also FIG. 10). Vertical side
frame members 12 each include a vertical row of slots 29. The rows
of slots 27-29 may be utilized to support hang-on furniture units
such as worksurfaces, binder bins, or the like.
[0054] Intermediate beams 4 each include a horizontal row of slots
26 for supporting hang-on furniture units. The intermediate beams 4
also include openings 19 and 20 for securing the cover panels 6. As
discussed in more detail below, the openings 19 and 20 may also be
utilized to secure smaller cover panels 10 to the partition frame 2
horizontally adjacent a modular accessory unit such as the flat
screen display 7 illustrated in FIG. 1. With further reference to
FIG. 6, each of the horizontal cross members 4, 13 and 14 includes
sets of openings 31 at regularly spaced intervals. In the
illustrated embodiment, each set of openings 31 is repeated every
six inches along each of the horizontal frame members 4, 13 and 14.
The regularly spaced openings 31 define a plurality of discrete,
serially adjacent mounting spaces 32. Openings 31 receive well nuts
or conventional self-tapping screws or the like to secure the
modular accessory units to the partition frame 3. The mounting
spaces 32 receive the modular appliance units 7, 8 and 9. For
example, the power and data module 8 illustrated in FIG. 1 may have
a width of twelve inches and take up two of the mounting spaces 32.
Alternately, the modular appliance unit may have a width of
twenty-four inches, such that the appliance unit takes up four of
adjacent mounting spaces 32. Significantly, the modular appliance
unit can be mounted at a selected horizontal position in one or
more of the mounting spaces 32, such that the horizontal position
of the appliance unit can be selected to meet the needs of a
particular user and/or application. Also, as described in more
detail below, a single intermediate beam 4 may be mounted adjacent
the frame members 13 or 14, such that a modular appliance unit may
be mounted adjacent the upper or lower edge of the frame 3 by
securing the appliance unit to the openings 31 in the intermediate
beam 4 and frame member 13 or 14.
[0055] With further reference to FIGS. 7-9, each intermediate beam
4 includes a front face 33 with a horizontal row of slots 26, and
openings 19 and 20 that receive clips to mount the cover panels 6
and/or smaller fill-in cover panels 10 and/or 11 illustrated in
FIG. 1. As discussed above, each intermediate beam 4 includes a
plurality of evenly spaced openings 31 for mounting the modular
appliance units, and each intermediate beam 4 also includes a pair
of hooks 34 at the opposite ends of the beam. With further
reference to FIG. 10, vertical side frame members 12 include
openings 35 that receive hooks 34 of the intermediate beams 4 to
thereby retain the intermediate beams 4 on the vertical frame
member 12. A flexible safety catch 36 is made of spring steel or
the like, and is spot welded or otherwise attached to the
intermediate beams 4 at the locations marked 37. The safety catch
36 includes a tab 38. During installation, during insertion of
hooks 34 in openings 35, tab 38 contacts the vertical frame member
12, and flexes outwardly in the direction of the arrow "A". As the
intermediate beam 4 is shifted downwardly to engage the hooks 34,
the tab 38 snaps into the opening 35. The tab 38 prevents upward
shifting and inadvertent dislodgment of hooks 34 from the openings
35. To remove the intermediate beam 4, the flexible safety catch
can be manually flexed, such that the tab 38 is disengaged from the
opening 35, thereby permitting disengagement of hooks 34 from
openings 35.
[0056] Each of the illustrated vertical frame members 12 includes a
plurality of openings 35 at equal vertical intervals, such that one
or more intermediate beams 4 can be positioned at a selected height
on the partition frame 3. In the illustrated example, the vertical
spacing between the pairs of openings 35 is 12.360 inches, such
that the intermediate beams 4 can be positioned at 12.360 inch
intervals on the vertical side frame members 12. Each vertical side
frame member 12 includes a set of openings 35 spaced 12.360 inches
from the upper horizontal frame member 13, and another set of
openings 35 spaced twelve inches away from the lower horizontal
cross member 14, such that an intermediate beam 4 can be mounted to
the frame 3 12.360 inches away from upper frame member 13 and/or
lower frame member 14. Upper frame member 13 and lower frame member
14 also include openings 31 (see also FIG. 2A) for mounting modular
appliance units. Each set of four openings 31 in the frame members
13, 14 and intermediate beams 4 is spaced at six inch intervals,
such that the appliance units can be positioned in six inch
increments at any selected horizontal position. A horizontal row of
mounting spaces 32 can be provided along the upper and/or lower
portions of the frame 3 if required for a particular application.
Thus, the horizontal location of the modular appliance unit can be
varied by positioning the appliance unit in a selected space 32.
Also, the intermediate beams 4 can be vertically positioned at a
selected height, such that the modular appliance units can be
readily mounted at selected vertical and horizontal positions.
[0057] FIG. 9B schematically illustrates the grid of appliance
mounting spaces and cover panel configurations provided by the
vertically adjustable intermediate beams and horizontally spaced
mounting openings 31 in the intermediate beams and upper and lower
frame members 13, 14. In FIG. 9B, each set of mounting openings 35
in the vertical frame members 12 is designated 35A, and each set of
mounting openings 31 in the intermediate beams and frame members 13
and 14 is designated 31A. In the example of FIG. 9B, the
intermediate beams are designated 4A, 4B and 4C. As discussed
above, the sets of openings 31A are spaced at six inch horizontal
intervals, designated S1, and the sets of openings 35A are spaced
at 12.360 vertical increments, designated S2. The intermediate
beams can be attached to selected ones of the sets of openings 35A,
thereby providing a plurality of attachment locations 125 that may
be utilized by connecting an intermediate beam to a selected set of
openings 35A in the vertical frame members 12. The attachment
locations 125 form a grid defining a plurality of mounting spaces
32A. Each of the mounting spaces 32A in the illustrated example has
a width of six inches, and a height of 12.360 inches. As discussed
above, the modular accessory units may have a width of six inches,
twelve inches, eighteen inches, twenty-four inches, or any other
multiple of six inches. In the example of FIG. 9B, a full width
cover panel 6A has a height of S2, and extends across the entire
width of the frame 3. A mounting space 32B having a width of twelve
inches is provided between shorter width cover panels 11 and 10A
immediately below the full width cover panel 6A. A second mounting
space 32C having a twenty-four inch width is provided between cover
panels 10B and 11. A full width cover panel 6B closes off the lower
portion of the frame 3, and has a height of two times S2. The
partial width cover panels 11, 10A and 10B may have a width of six
inches, twelve inches, or any multiple of six inches to close off
the gap or gaps along the side or sides of an appliance unit that
is mounted in a mounting space 32. Thus, prefabricated partial
width cover panels of six inches wide, twelve inches wide, eighteen
inches wide, and each additional multiple of six inches can be
provided, each having a height S2. Similarly, prefabricated full
width cover panels 6 having heights S2, and each multiple of S2 may
also be provided. Thus, the modular appliance units for a
particular workspace or other such application can be selected to
suit a user's needs. The horizontal and vertical locations of the
modular appliance units can also be selected, and the required
number of intermediate beams is installed to the frame 3 at the
desired vertical location(s). The required number and sizes of
cover panels can then be selected and installed to close off the
spaces that are not occupied by a modular appliance unit.
[0058] With reference to FIG. 11, power and/or data module 8
includes an upper flange 41, and a lower flange 42, each of which
has at least two clearance openings 43. The openings 31 in
intermediate beams 4 receive conventional well nuts (not shown),
and conventional threaded fasteners such as bolts or the like (also
not shown) that extend through the clearance openings 43 in flanges
41 and 42 to thereby secure the power and/or appliance module in
the mounting space 32. Alternately, self-tapping screws or other
conventional fasteners may be received in openings 31 to secure the
modular appliance units to the partition frame. Housing 44 of
module 8 includes a front face 45 having openings 46 and 47 for
mounting power receptacles 48 and data receptacles, respectively. A
large opening 50 through the front face 45 permits pass-through of
power and/or data lines from the interior space of the partition
frame to the exterior. A bezel 67 may be releasably secured to the
housing 44 and/or partition frame 3 to cover the housing 44 and
close off opening 50. Bezel 67 includes an opening 68 to provide
user access to power receptacles 48 and data receptacles 49. A pair
of wire managers 69 extend around opening 68. Wire managers 69 are
horizontally spaced from the front face 67A of bezel 67 such that
utility lines such as power line 81 can be routed between a wire
manager 69 and the face 67A of bezel 67.
[0059] The modular appliance unit may also comprise a display
screen 51 (FIG. 11) that is connected to a programmable computer
(not shown). Display screen 51 may be a touch tone screen
permitting users to, for example, reserve a conference room for a
meeting or the like.
[0060] A left hand cover panel bracket 52 and a right hand cover
panel bracket 53 are mounted on the intermediate horizontal beams
4, and extend between the intermediate beams 4 to provide a
mounting location for the smaller fill-in cover panels 10 and/or
11. Brackets 52 and 53 each include a plurality of openings 54 that
receive conventional threaded fasteners (not shown) that are
threadably received in the conventional well nuts (not shown) that
are positioned in the openings 31 of the intermediate beams 4. The
illustrated brackets 52 and 53 each include cover panel mounting
openings 15, 16, 17 and 18 having the same configuration as
openings 15, 16, 17 and 18 in frame members 12, such that cover
panels 10 can be mounted to the cover panel brackets 52 and 53.
This arrangement permits the cover panels 10 to have the same
mounting clip and construction as the full width segmented cover
panels 6. Furthermore, the cover panel mounting brackets 52 and 53
ensure that the vertical side edges of the cover panels 10 directly
adjacent the modular appliance remains securely mounted to the
frame 3, and does not bow outwardly or otherwise create an
unsightly appearance. The left hand and right hand cover panel
brackets 52 and 53 may optionally include a cutout 55 that permits
wiring to be passed from within the panel outwardly between the
cover panels 10 and the vertical side member 56 of the cover panel
bracket 52 and/or 53.
[0061] With further reference to FIG. 12, the modular appliance
unit may also comprise a storage unit 9. In the illustrated
example, the storage unit 9 has a width of about twenty-four
inches, and includes "shoebox" shaped housing 58 with flange 57
extending upwardly from housing 58, and a lower flange 59 extending
downwardly from housing 58. Each of the flanges 57, 59 includes a
plurality of fastener openings 61 that receive a conventional
threaded fastener that is threadably received into a conventional
well nut that is positioned in the openings 31 in the intermediate
horizontal beams 4. Alternately, as discussed above, self-tapping
screws or the like may be utilized to secure the modular appliance
units to the frame. The housing 58 of storage unit 9 includes one
or more vertical center walls 62, vertical side walls 63,
horizontal lower side wall 63A, upper horizontal side wall 63B, and
vertical rear wall 63C. The walls 62 and 63 each include a
plurality of horizontally extending flanges 64 forming slots 64A
that may be used to support trays 65, paper holder 66, and the
like. Paper holder 66 includes a plurality of vertical wires 66A,
downwardly angled wires 66B, and horizontal wires 66C that are
configured to retain a plurality of papers, files, and the like in
a generally upright position. The walls 62, 63 and slots 64A may be
configured to slidably support a compact disk ("CD") jewel box 64B.
A right hand cover panel bracket 53 and/or left hand panel bracket
52 are mounted directly adjacent the storage unit 9 to provide an
attachment location for the cover panels 10. Trays 65 may have
generally vertical side walls 65A forming a shallow, upwardly
opening cavity 65B. A lid 60 (see also FIG. 12A) may be removably
positioned on tray 65 to close off cavity 65B. Lid 60 is flat, and
includes an opening 60A through the central portion to provide a
finger grip for a user. A small step 65D extends around the upper
edge 65E of walls 65A to support and position lid 60 with upper
surface 60B thereof generally flush with upper edge 65E. The
shelves 65 may have an overall front to rear dimension that is
greater than the depth of the housing 58, such that the forward
portion 65C of the tray 65 extends outwardly beyond the peripheral
edge 58A of the housing 58. As illustrated in FIG. 1, storage unit
9 may optionally include a door 82 that pivots between open and
closed positions to selectively close off at least a portion of
housing 58.
[0062] Storage unit 9 may also include a pencil holder 130, a
telephone holder 131, and a hanging file holder 132. Pencil holder
130 includes a flat upper portion 133 with opposite side edges 134
that support pencil holder 130 in slots 64A. Telephone holder 131
includes a housing 135 having at least a pair of opposed edges that
engage slots 64A on opposite sides of a vertical center wall 62.
Hanging file holder 132 is formed from wire, and includes
horizontal hanger portions 137 that support standard hanging file
folders 138. Walls 62 may include a plurality of openings 139
therethrough, each of which is positioned adjacent rear wall 63C
and slots 64A. During installation, ends 140 of hanging file holder
132 may be flexed inwardly and inserted into openings 139 to
thereby support file holder 132. When installed, vertical portions
141 of file holder 132 extend adjacent rear wall 63C, with the
lower portion of vertical portions 141 contacting rear wall 63C to
prevent rotation about ends 140. Horizontal portions 142 of holder
132 extend outwardly to position file holder 132. Paper holder 66
includes a somewhat similar mounting arrangement, except that a
vertical wire 66A contacts the storage unit 9 adjacent the lower
edge of housing 58 to prevent rotation of holder 66. As discussed
above, the various modular appliance units can be mounted at
various horizontal locations along the intermediate beams 4, and
cover panels 10 of standard size are then utilized to fill in the
gaps defined between the modular appliance unit and the vertical
side frame members 12.
[0063] With further reference to FIG. 13A, a second embodiment 70
of the power and/or data modular appliance may include a plurality
of flanges 57, 59, each having one or more openings 61 that receive
conventional threaded fasteners for securing the power and data
module 70 to the intermediate beams 4 in substantially the same
manner as described above in connection with the storage module 90.
Module 70 includes a main housing 71 and a vertically extending
inner housing 71A that supports power receptacles 73 facing
sidewardly on each side of the housing 71A. A pair of vertical side
wall portions 74 may be utilized to mount data outlets 75 facing
inwardly along the opposite sides of module 70. The electrical
power lines 76 connect to the electrical power system 76A (FIG. 1)
extending along the base. Similarly, data lines 77 can be connected
to the data lines 77A (FIG. 1) extending along the top edge of the
panel system. Alternately, the power lines 76A and data lines 77A
supplying the panel system may be routed internally through the
openings 21 (see also FIG. 5) in the vertical side frame members
12. Main housing 71 includes upper and lower horizontal walls 71B,
71C, respectively, and a vertical rear wall 71D. Upper and lower
walls 71B and 71C include an elongated opening 72 to permit
vertical routing of power lines 76 and/or data lines 77 from within
main housing 71 to the interior space of the partition panel. Large
openings 71E may also be provided along the sides of main housing
71 to permit horizontal routing of power lines 76 and/or data lines
77 from within main housing 71. A fill-in cover panel 10 or 11
having the same width as the power and data module 70 can be
mounted to the intermediate beams 4 and 5 to close off the module
70, such that a pair of side-by-side fill-in cover panels 10 and/or
11 close off the interior space between the intermediate beams 4
and 5.
[0064] With reference to FIG. 14, skin bracket 53 may optionally
include a hook 78 that may be inserted into an opening 31. The
bracket 53 is then shifted in the direction of the arrow "B" to
align the openings 54 in bracket 53 with the openings 31 in the
intermediate beam 4 and/or 5. One or more conventional threaded
fasteners 79 are then inserted through the openings 54 and 31, and
threaded into a conventional well nut 80. Alternately, conventional
self-tapping screws (not shown) may be driven into openings 31 to
secure the modular appliance units to the partition frame.
[0065] With further reference to FIG. 15, a flat screen monitor
appliance module 7 includes a housing 85 extending between the
intermediate beams 4 and 5. The housing 85 includes upper and lower
flanges 86 and 87, each having a plurality of clearance holes 88
that receive threaded fasteners that extend into well nuts
positioned in the openings 31 in the intermediate beams 4 and 5. A
flat screen monitor 92 is secured to the housing 85 by first and
second support arm assemblies 90 and 91. First arm assembly 90
includes a first link 93 and a second link 94. Similarly, the
second arm assembly 91 includes a first link 95 and a second link
96. The first links 93 and 95 are pivotally connected to a base
bracket 97 by hinges 98 and 99. First link 93 is pivotally
connected to second link 94 by a hinge 100. Similarly, first link
95 is pivotally connected to second link 96 by a hinge 101. The
outer ends 105 and 106 of second links 94 and 96, respectively, are
pivotally connected to a bracket 102 by hinges 103 and 104,
respectively, formed in link member 109. A thumbscrew 111 or the
like extends through openings 113 in clevis 114 of bracket 102, and
through opening 112 in link member 109 to permit tilt adjustment of
screen 92 about a horizontal axis. Thumbscrew 111 may be tightened
to secure screen 92 at the desired angle. An elongated slide member
115 includes a channel 116 having opposed grooves 117. When
assembled, grooves 117 receive edges 118 of bracket 10, and
openings 119 in slide member 115 align with openings 120 in bracket
102. Threaded fasteners or the like extend through openings 119 and
120 to interconnect bracket 102 and slide member 115. A connector
bracket 121 forms a channel 122 that slidably receives the slide
member 115 to provide height adjustment of screen 92. A thumbscrew
123 or the like secures the screen 92 at the desired height.
Bracket 121 includes flanges 124 that include openings 125 for
mounting screen 92 on bracket 121. With further reference to FIG.
17, a cable management loop 126 is secured to bezel 110. Power
lines 127 or the like may be routed through the loop 126 to ensure
that the lines do not interfere with the user's other equipment
and/or activities. The first and second arm assemblies 90 and 91
support the flat screen 92 for horizontal movement between the
fully extended position illustrated in FIG. 16, and the fully
retracted position illustrated in FIG. 17. A recess 107 is formed
in the face 108 of a bezel 110 that mounts to the frame 3, and/or
brackets 52, 53. When in the fully stored position of FIG. 17, the
arm assemblies 90 and 91 are received within the recess 107 to
permit the screen 92 to be positioned directly adjacent the
partition panel 2 to which it is attached.
[0066] The flat screen assembly 7 of FIG. 15 may include a pair of
friction rollers 115 made of rubber or other elastomeric material
at hinges 98 and 99. With further reference to FIGS. 18-20, links
94 and 96 each include a hexagonal cast boss 151 that is integrally
formed with the link. The friction rollers 150 include a hexagonal
opening 152 therethrough having slightly smaller overall size than
the boss 151, such that the roller 150 is secured to the boss 151
by a tight interference fit when installed. With reference to FIG.
19, the distance "D" between the center of the two rollers 150 is
slightly less than the diameter of the rollers 150, such that the
rollers 150 are elastically deformed at the contact area 153
between the two rollers 150. This interference fit between the
adjacent rollers 150 creates friction to control extension and
retraction of the flat screen 92 and prevents excessive inadvertent
movement thereof.
[0067] Instead of the left and right hand cover panel brackets 52
and 53 discussed above, an alternate embodiment 160 of the cover
panel bracket may be utilized in both a left hand and right hand
configuration (i.e., on either side of a modular appliance unit).
Cover panel bracket 160 includes a front web 161, a pair of
vertically extending side webs 162, an upper web 163, and a lower
web 164 forming a shallow "shoebox" shape. Mounting openings
165-168 through the front web 161 recite mounting clips to retain
cover panels 10 adjacent an appliance unit. The openings 165-168,
and cover panel mounting clips are described in detail in the
above-identified application Ser. No. 10/077,553, entitled PANEL
SYSTEM, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,684,929, previously incorporated herein
by reference. Side webs 162 are cut out at 172 to provide for
routing of utility lines 175 therethrough to or from the adjacent
appliance unit if required. With further reference to FIGS. 24-26,
a second embodiment 180 of the bracket cover panel mounting bracket
of FIGS. 22 and 23 is substantially the same as bracket 160, except
that bracket 180 includes an enlarged cutout portion 181 through
the front web 161 and side web 162 to permit lay-in of utility
lines 175, such as data or power lines. A small strip 182 can be
installed across the cutout 181 after the utility lines 175 are
installed by placing the ends 183 of strip 182 in openings 184. The
strip 182 provides a visual block between the edge of the cover
panel 10 and the adjacent appliance unit, by extending across the
gap between the appliance unit and the cover panel. An upwardly
extending tab 185 similarly provides a light blocking function.
[0068] With further reference to FIGS. 27 and 28, bracket 160 may
be installed between a pair of adjacent beams 4 by first inserting
upwardly extending tab 169 into an opening 186 in lower surface 187
of the uppermost beam 4. The lower end 188 of bracket 160 is then
rotated inwardly in the direction of the arrow "A" (FIG. 27) until
the bracket 160 is vertically aligned in the position illustrated
in FIG. 28. The bracket 160 is then shifted downwardly in the
direction of the arrow "B" to engage the tabs 170 in openings 189
in upper side 190 of the lower beam 4. A plurality of threaded
fasteners 191 are then inserted through the openings 174 (FIG. 23)
in the lower web 164 of bracket 160 and into the corresponding
openings 192 in the upper side 190 of the lowermost intermediate
beam 4. Threaded fasteners 191 may be self-tapping screws, well
nuts, or other such conventional fastener. During installation of
fasteners 191, the installer may utilize the access opening 173 and
cutouts 172 to provide access for the wrench, screwdriver, or the
like. The fasteners 191 ensure that the bracket 160 is rigidly
secured to the beams 4, without rattles or the like. Bracket 180 is
installed in substantially the same manner as just described for
bracket 160.
[0069] The modular appliance units of the present invention permit
such units to be mounted within the partition panel itself, thereby
reducing the worksurface space that would otherwise be required for
such units. The intermediate beams 4 can be positioned at various
vertical heights, and the modular appliance units can be secured to
a pair of intermediate beams 4 at the selected vertical position.
Alternately, the modular appliance units may be secured to an upper
frame member 13 and an intermediate beam 4, or, the modular
appliance unit may be secured to an intermediate beam 4 and the
lower horizontal frame member 14. Still further, the modular
appliance units can be positioned horizontally in a selected
mounting space 32. Accordingly, the present invention permits a
wide variety of modular appliance units to be positioned at
virtually any horizontal or vertical position within the partition
panels 2 utilizing a common mounting arrangement. The common
mounting arrangement permits the various types of modular appliance
units to be interchanged/moved as required. Furthermore, because
the modular appliance units are mounted at standard positions, and
have standard sizes, fill-in panels having standard widths and
heights can also be provided to quickly fill in any gaps between
the modular appliance units and the adjacent vertical frame
members.
[0070] 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.
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