CA2178379C - Privacy screen for office panelling systems - Google Patents
Privacy screen for office panelling systems Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2178379C CA2178379C CA002178379A CA2178379A CA2178379C CA 2178379 C CA2178379 C CA 2178379C CA 002178379 A CA002178379 A CA 002178379A CA 2178379 A CA2178379 A CA 2178379A CA 2178379 C CA2178379 C CA 2178379C
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- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- panel
- screen
- privacy screen
- privacy
- office
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
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- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 10
- 239000000758 substrate Substances 0.000 claims description 23
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 claims description 3
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 3
- 229920004142 LEXAN™ Polymers 0.000 description 1
- 239000004418 Lexan Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000010276 construction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000001125 extrusion Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000203 mixture Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000008521 reorganization Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05D—HINGES OR SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS
- E05D15/00—Suspension arrangements for wings
- E05D15/06—Suspension arrangements for wings for wings sliding horizontally more or less in their own plane
- E05D15/0621—Details, e.g. suspension or supporting guides
- E05D15/0626—Details, e.g. suspension or supporting guides for wings suspended at the top
- E05D15/0643—Details, e.g. suspension or supporting guides for wings suspended at the top on balls or floating rollers
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/74—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge
- E04B2/7407—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge assembled using frames with infill panels or coverings only; made-up of panels and a support structure incorporating posts
- E04B2/7416—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge assembled using frames with infill panels or coverings only; made-up of panels and a support structure incorporating posts with free upper edge, e.g. for use as office space dividers
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05D—HINGES OR SUSPENSION DEVICES FOR DOORS, WINDOWS OR WINGS
- E05D15/00—Suspension arrangements for wings
- E05D15/06—Suspension arrangements for wings for wings sliding horizontally more or less in their own plane
- E05D15/0621—Details, e.g. suspension or supporting guides
- E05D15/0626—Details, e.g. suspension or supporting guides for wings suspended at the top
- E05D15/0652—Tracks
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
- E05Y2201/00—Constructional elements; Accessories therefor
- E05Y2201/10—Covers; Housings
- E05Y2201/11—Covers
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
- E05Y2201/00—Constructional elements; Accessories therefor
- E05Y2201/60—Suspension or transmission members; Accessories therefor
- E05Y2201/622—Suspension or transmission members elements
- E05Y2201/684—Rails; Tracks
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
- E05Y2600/00—Mounting or coupling arrangements for elements provided for in this subclass
- E05Y2600/50—Mounting methods; Positioning
- E05Y2600/51—Screwing or bolting
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
- E05Y2800/00—Details, accessories and auxiliary operations not otherwise provided for
- E05Y2800/10—Additional functions
- E05Y2800/122—Telescopic action
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
- E05Y2900/00—Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof
- E05Y2900/10—Application of doors, windows, wings or fittings thereof for buildings or parts thereof
- E05Y2900/13—Type of wing
- E05Y2900/132—Doors
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E05—LOCKS; KEYS; WINDOW OR DOOR FITTINGS; SAFES
- E05Y—INDEXING SCHEME ASSOCIATED WITH SUBCLASSES E05D AND E05F, RELATING TO CONSTRUCTION ELEMENTS, ELECTRIC CONTROL, POWER SUPPLY, POWER SIGNAL OR TRANSMISSION, USER INTERFACES, MOUNTING OR COUPLING, DETAILS, ACCESSORIES, AUXILIARY OPERATIONS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR, APPLICATION THEREOF
- E05Y2999/00—Subject-matter not otherwise provided for in this subclass
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Electromagnetism (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Displays For Variable Information Using Movable Means (AREA)
- User Interface Of Digital Computer (AREA)
- Overhead Projectors And Projection Screens (AREA)
Abstract
The privacy screen provides a simple, effective solution to provide visual privacy for the traditional open workstations of office panelling systems. The privacy screen can easily be retrofitted to existing systems without the need for specialized panels or overhead mounting structure at an opening threshold. The privacy screen is mounted to overlap with a face of a panel adjacent a panel and extend there beyond to close the entryway to the workstation.
Description
WH-9485CA 2 1 l 8 3 7 9 TITLE: PRIVACY SCREEN FOR OFFICE PANELLING SYSTEMS
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to office panelling systems and in particular relates to a privacy screen which can be secured to the office panelling system, adjacent an entryway between panels to allow selective closure of the entryway.
The modern office continues to evolve and office panelling systems provide a great deal of flexibility to address the changing needs of the user over time. Office panelling systems are commonly used for subdividing a large open space into work stations and hallways. Normally the work stations are defined by a group of office panels defining an enclosure with an entryway from the work station to a hallway. For many applications this work station with an open entryway is sufficient and provides the user with some privacy while still being part of an open part of the office. An open entryway also has the ability of providing a greater feeling of space as the work station is opening on to a hallway or larger space.
In some applications it is desirable to be able to close this entryway and in particular, to provide visual privacy from anyone in the hallway outside of the work station.
It would therefore be desirable to be able to provide a simple method for closing of the entryway and in particular, to provide a system which has wide application and is easy to install.
n SUN~IARY OF T~i,E INVENTION
A system of office panels according to the present invention, subdivide an open space into work stations and at least some of the work stations have an entryway usable by a person between a first panel and a spaced second panel for entering or exiting the work station. A privacy screen is supported by and to one side of the first panel and is movable from a position overlapping and exterior to the first panel, to leave the entryway open, to an extended position closing the entryway. The privacy screen includes an outer frame supporting a non-transparent sheet substrate there within.
In one aspect of the invention, the privacy screen is supported by at least one telescopic slide attached to the first panel and located intermediate the privacy screen and the first panel.
The invention also provides an privacy screen per se. The privacy screen can be relatively light weight and provides visual privacy to the work station when desired.
The privacy screen is in contrast to a lockable door which would also provide security to the work station itself.
The purpose of the privacy screen is to allow the user to restrict anyone in the hallway adjacent to the work station from observing his work, if the privacy screen is in a closed position. This type of application is particularly desirable for computer programmers and software developers who often have development work displayed on computer monitors.
The privacy screen is mounted to the outer face of the first panel and, to a limited extent, encroaches on the hallway. This allows the privacy screen to be easily retrofitted to existing panels defining the entryway.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to office panelling systems and in particular relates to a privacy screen which can be secured to the office panelling system, adjacent an entryway between panels to allow selective closure of the entryway.
The modern office continues to evolve and office panelling systems provide a great deal of flexibility to address the changing needs of the user over time. Office panelling systems are commonly used for subdividing a large open space into work stations and hallways. Normally the work stations are defined by a group of office panels defining an enclosure with an entryway from the work station to a hallway. For many applications this work station with an open entryway is sufficient and provides the user with some privacy while still being part of an open part of the office. An open entryway also has the ability of providing a greater feeling of space as the work station is opening on to a hallway or larger space.
In some applications it is desirable to be able to close this entryway and in particular, to provide visual privacy from anyone in the hallway outside of the work station.
It would therefore be desirable to be able to provide a simple method for closing of the entryway and in particular, to provide a system which has wide application and is easy to install.
n SUN~IARY OF T~i,E INVENTION
A system of office panels according to the present invention, subdivide an open space into work stations and at least some of the work stations have an entryway usable by a person between a first panel and a spaced second panel for entering or exiting the work station. A privacy screen is supported by and to one side of the first panel and is movable from a position overlapping and exterior to the first panel, to leave the entryway open, to an extended position closing the entryway. The privacy screen includes an outer frame supporting a non-transparent sheet substrate there within.
In one aspect of the invention, the privacy screen is supported by at least one telescopic slide attached to the first panel and located intermediate the privacy screen and the first panel.
The invention also provides an privacy screen per se. The privacy screen can be relatively light weight and provides visual privacy to the work station when desired.
The privacy screen is in contrast to a lockable door which would also provide security to the work station itself.
The purpose of the privacy screen is to allow the user to restrict anyone in the hallway adjacent to the work station from observing his work, if the privacy screen is in a closed position. This type of application is particularly desirable for computer programmers and software developers who often have development work displayed on computer monitors.
The privacy screen is mounted to the outer face of the first panel and, to a limited extent, encroaches on the hallway. This allows the privacy screen to be easily retrofitted to existing panels defining the entryway.
n i ~
According to an aspect of the invention in which the privacy screen is supported by telescopic slides, the slides have at least three stages with at least 40~ overlap - 2a -between adjacent stages when the privacy screen is in the closed position.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the privacy screen is only supported by telescopic slides located at an upper and lower part of the privacy screen from the first panel. V~hen the privacy screen is in the closed position, it is supported in a cantilevered manner from the first panel.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the sheet substrate is preferably of a translucent plastic material.
According to yet a further aspect of the invention, the substrate is bowed outwardly away from the first panel between vertical sides of the frame of the privacy screen provided about the substrate.
The purpose of the substrate is to provide visual privacy to the work station and therefore it need not be of high structural integrity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings wherein:
Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of an office panelling system having an entryway to a work station;
Figure 2 is a partial view of an office panelling system of Figure 1 with a privacy screen used to close the entryway;
Figure 3A is an exploded perspective view showing one manner of mounting the upper telescopic slide and curved privacy screen to the office panelling system;
According to an aspect of the invention in which the privacy screen is supported by telescopic slides, the slides have at least three stages with at least 40~ overlap - 2a -between adjacent stages when the privacy screen is in the closed position.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the privacy screen is only supported by telescopic slides located at an upper and lower part of the privacy screen from the first panel. V~hen the privacy screen is in the closed position, it is supported in a cantilevered manner from the first panel.
According to a further aspect of the invention, the sheet substrate is preferably of a translucent plastic material.
According to yet a further aspect of the invention, the substrate is bowed outwardly away from the first panel between vertical sides of the frame of the privacy screen provided about the substrate.
The purpose of the substrate is to provide visual privacy to the work station and therefore it need not be of high structural integrity.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings wherein:
Figure 1 is a partial perspective view of an office panelling system having an entryway to a work station;
Figure 2 is a partial view of an office panelling system of Figure 1 with a privacy screen used to close the entryway;
Figure 3A is an exploded perspective view showing one manner of mounting the upper telescopic slide and curved privacy screen to the office panelling system;
Figure 3B is an end view showing the interior of the telescopic slide of Figure 3A;
Figure 4A is an exploded perspective view showing one manner of mounting the upper telescopic slide and a straight privacy screen to the office panelling system;
Figure 4B is a cross-section showing the securement of the upper telescopic slide member of Figure 4A to the office panelling system;
Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the privacy screen in an open and closed position respectively;
Figure 7 is a partial perspective view showing an office panelling system with two privacy screens for closing entryways into work stations; and Figure 8 illustrates end caps used to close the end of the telescopic slide and which form part of a stop mechanism for the slide.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The panelling system partially shown as 2 in Figures 1 and 7, is used to define work stations 9, which typically have an entryway 8 opening onto a hallway 11.
These panelling systems subdivide large office areas in a convenient manner, also allow convenient reorganization, and can be moved to a new location.
The privacy screen 10 is moveable from the open position of Figure 1 to the closed position of Figure 2 where the workstation is isolated from the hallway.
The privacy screen 10 is supported from the first panel 4, located to one side of the entryway 8, and includes an upper telescopic slide 20 and a lower telescopic slide 22. These telescopic slides preferably have at least three stages with substantial overlap there between in an extended position to allow the privacy screen to be supported in a cantilevered manner from the first panel when the privacy screen is in the closed position of Figure 2.
The privacy screen includes an outer peripheral frame 12 with a sheet substrate 14 located within the frame 12. Preferably the sheet substrate is of a lightweight translucent plastic (such as THERMOCLEAR LEXAN) to provide visual privacy while still allowing some light into the work station 9. The sheet substrate, shown in Figures 1 and 2, is bowed outwardly into the hallway 11 and is held within the frame 12 in a low stressed state. This provides additional structural integrity to the privacy screen and avoids the requirement for intermediate support of the sheet substrate.
Figure 3A illustrates securement of the privacy screen 10 to the first panel 4. The first panel 4 includes a structural frame 5 supporting upholstered elements 7.
Details of this type of frame are shown in our United States Patent No. 4,535,577, which is incorporated herein by reference. Brackets 30 are mechanically attached to the U-shaped top channel 40 of the office panel frame 5. These brackets serve to provide top support for the privacy screen 10. In a similar manner, the lower telescopic slide 22 is mechanically attached by brackets to the structural frame 5. The telescopic slides 20 and 22 are of a reversible design to allow sliding in either direction.
The telescopic slides also provide a finished face to the length of the telescopic slides including the workstation faces of the slides, when the privacy screen is in the closed position.
The privacy screen at an upper edge thereof includes an L bracket 29 which is secured to the structural cover 70 (Figure 3B). The structural cover 70 moves with the privacy screen 10 and provides a finished face to the workstation side of the privacy screen, which is exposed when the privacy screen closes the entryway. The structural cover 70 has inner slide 56 fixed thereto.
Mounting brackets 30 have structural cover 72 attached thereto and cover 72 has outer slide 60 fixed thereto.
Preferably, cover 70 and cover 72 are the same. Outer slide 60 and inner slide 56 are interconnected by intermediate slide 58. With this arrangement, L bracket 29 and cover 70 conceal the telescopic slides within the width of the privacy screen 10 and cover 72 conceals the telescopic slides in front of the first panel. The bowed privacy screen 10 is in front of the telescopic slides and the structural covers. Extrusions 47 forming part of the frame of the privacy screen include a projecting handle edge for opening and closing the screen. A horizontal handle 49 strengthens the frame and provides an interior handle.
Figures 4A and 4B show an alternate arrangement used with a flat privacy screen 10a. The privacy screen 10a has a flat, lightweight substrate 14a to provide visual privacy. The slide 22 includes a stationary structural cover 52 attached at 54 to brackets 30. This cover is exposed when the privacy screen closes the entryway 8.
Structural cover 52 defines a top opening channel between the cover and the face of the panel. Outer slide 60 is attached to cover 52 and is stationary therewith. Slide 60 receives and supports the intermediate slide 58 which receives and supports inner slide 56. Inner slide 56 is secured to and stationery with the privacy screen 10a which hangs below the slide 20 to keep the privacy screen close to the first panel 4. The lower telescopic slide is positioned below the privacy screen, thereby keeping the privacy screen close to the face of the panel.
The inner slide 56 is attached to the privacy screen 10a by the two connected "C" shaped members 50 and 51 which basically enclose the slides 56, 58 and 60 in a WH-9485CA 2 1 l 8 3 7 9 concealed manner. These members include interior slots for securement of the slides. A rearwardly opening gap 61 allows the "C" shaped members 50 and 51 to move without interference from the brackets 30. Member 51 provides a finished surface to the side of the privacy screen facing the hallway and member 50 provides a finished surface to the side of the privacy screen facing the workstation.
Both these members move with the privacy screen. The actual mechanical part of the slides is similar to telescopic slides used in filing cabinets.
Once the slides are secured, the privacy screen can then be mounted on the slides. The direction of slide can also be reversed to accommodate right or left hand opening without removing the privacy screen from the panel, which is described with reference to Figure 8.
Slide 22 is of a construction similar to slide 20 and conceals the mechanical components of the slide in the same manner.
Slides 20 and 22 shown in Figures 3 and 4 provide finished surfaces to both the interior and exterior of the workstation covering the slide mechanism when the screen closes the entryway 8 while still providing good structural strength and ease of operation.
With this arrangement, the first slide 56, the intermediate slide 58 and the outer slide 60, which are interconnected by ball bearings and guides, remain hidden from view by member 52 and members 50 and 51 in the flat screen design and members 29, 70 and 72 in the curved screen design.
Figure 5 shows the flat privacy screen 10a and how the slide components 56, 58 and 60, all telescope within each other and allow the privacy screen to overlap with the panel 4 leaving the entryway 8 open. In Figure 6, the first slide 56 has moved with the privacy screen 10 and as _ 7 _ WH-9485CA 21 l 8 3 7 9 required drawn the intermediate slide 58 therewith.
Intermediate slide 58 has at least 40~ overlap with slide 56, and outer slide 60. Thus, there remains a very high degree of overlap between the telescopic slide members and this provides sufficient structural stability to support the screen at any position. Slide 22 is mechanically fastened by brackets 25 to the structural frame of the office panel 4. If desired, the privacy screen can releasably engage a support point on the second panel for improved support.
Figure 8 illustrates how end caps 90 and 92 are attached to the structural covers 70 and 72 of telescopic slide 20 to close the ends of the slide and form a stop mechanism. The slide itself can slide in either direction.
End cap 90 is inserted in the end of structural cover 72, which is remote from the entryway. With this cap in place, the slide can only extend in one direction. End cap 92 is inserted in the opposite end of structural cover 72 and moves with the privacy screen. These stop members provide a finished surface at the ends of the telescopic slide.
The direction of the slide can be reversed by removing the end caps, extending the slide in the other direction, and reversing the ends of structural covers 70 and 72 to which the end caps 90 and 92 are secured. It can be appreciated from the above that end caps 90 and 92 each form a stop mechanism and define the direction of extension.
End caps 90 and 92 are the same and can be secured in any suitable manner. Set screws 94 can pass through holes 96 or 98 in structural covers 70 or 72 and lock with ports 99 in tabs 95 of the end caps.
It has been found that bowing of the substrate 14 within the rectangular frame 12 of the privacy screen stiffens the substrate and frame and also provides a look which is pleasing to the eye. Depending upon the material being used as the substrate as well as the size of the privacy screen 10, an intermediate support member can be _ g _ provided at the back of the privacy screen. This support opposes any tendency of the vertical members of the frame 12 to bow outwardly and also forms an interior handle for sliding the privacy screen.
The sheet substrate when made of a translucent plastic is lightweight, provides effective visual privacy and also blends with the existing panel system making it suitable for retrofit applications. The privacy screen can be made in different heights to suit different panel sizes.
The most common panel heights are approximately 51 inches and 66 inches. The mounting arrangement and positioning of the slides to one side of the panel allows off module connection and even mounting from across a junction between two panels. With this arrangement there is no requirement to have a panel of a specified width for a given privacy screen. The privacy screen is preferably of a width of about 36 inches.
Other lightweight substrates can also be used to provide a desired look while providing the workstation with visual privacy when desired. The privacy screen can also function to reduce noise to or from the workstation.
The privacy screen is easily adapted to office panel systems of different manufacturers by providing appropriate mounting brackets 25 and 30. These office panelling systems include panels having a rectangular frame with top and bottom horizontal members to which the slides can be secured.
Although various preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described herein in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that variations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention or the scope of the appended claims.
Figure 4A is an exploded perspective view showing one manner of mounting the upper telescopic slide and a straight privacy screen to the office panelling system;
Figure 4B is a cross-section showing the securement of the upper telescopic slide member of Figure 4A to the office panelling system;
Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the privacy screen in an open and closed position respectively;
Figure 7 is a partial perspective view showing an office panelling system with two privacy screens for closing entryways into work stations; and Figure 8 illustrates end caps used to close the end of the telescopic slide and which form part of a stop mechanism for the slide.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The panelling system partially shown as 2 in Figures 1 and 7, is used to define work stations 9, which typically have an entryway 8 opening onto a hallway 11.
These panelling systems subdivide large office areas in a convenient manner, also allow convenient reorganization, and can be moved to a new location.
The privacy screen 10 is moveable from the open position of Figure 1 to the closed position of Figure 2 where the workstation is isolated from the hallway.
The privacy screen 10 is supported from the first panel 4, located to one side of the entryway 8, and includes an upper telescopic slide 20 and a lower telescopic slide 22. These telescopic slides preferably have at least three stages with substantial overlap there between in an extended position to allow the privacy screen to be supported in a cantilevered manner from the first panel when the privacy screen is in the closed position of Figure 2.
The privacy screen includes an outer peripheral frame 12 with a sheet substrate 14 located within the frame 12. Preferably the sheet substrate is of a lightweight translucent plastic (such as THERMOCLEAR LEXAN) to provide visual privacy while still allowing some light into the work station 9. The sheet substrate, shown in Figures 1 and 2, is bowed outwardly into the hallway 11 and is held within the frame 12 in a low stressed state. This provides additional structural integrity to the privacy screen and avoids the requirement for intermediate support of the sheet substrate.
Figure 3A illustrates securement of the privacy screen 10 to the first panel 4. The first panel 4 includes a structural frame 5 supporting upholstered elements 7.
Details of this type of frame are shown in our United States Patent No. 4,535,577, which is incorporated herein by reference. Brackets 30 are mechanically attached to the U-shaped top channel 40 of the office panel frame 5. These brackets serve to provide top support for the privacy screen 10. In a similar manner, the lower telescopic slide 22 is mechanically attached by brackets to the structural frame 5. The telescopic slides 20 and 22 are of a reversible design to allow sliding in either direction.
The telescopic slides also provide a finished face to the length of the telescopic slides including the workstation faces of the slides, when the privacy screen is in the closed position.
The privacy screen at an upper edge thereof includes an L bracket 29 which is secured to the structural cover 70 (Figure 3B). The structural cover 70 moves with the privacy screen 10 and provides a finished face to the workstation side of the privacy screen, which is exposed when the privacy screen closes the entryway. The structural cover 70 has inner slide 56 fixed thereto.
Mounting brackets 30 have structural cover 72 attached thereto and cover 72 has outer slide 60 fixed thereto.
Preferably, cover 70 and cover 72 are the same. Outer slide 60 and inner slide 56 are interconnected by intermediate slide 58. With this arrangement, L bracket 29 and cover 70 conceal the telescopic slides within the width of the privacy screen 10 and cover 72 conceals the telescopic slides in front of the first panel. The bowed privacy screen 10 is in front of the telescopic slides and the structural covers. Extrusions 47 forming part of the frame of the privacy screen include a projecting handle edge for opening and closing the screen. A horizontal handle 49 strengthens the frame and provides an interior handle.
Figures 4A and 4B show an alternate arrangement used with a flat privacy screen 10a. The privacy screen 10a has a flat, lightweight substrate 14a to provide visual privacy. The slide 22 includes a stationary structural cover 52 attached at 54 to brackets 30. This cover is exposed when the privacy screen closes the entryway 8.
Structural cover 52 defines a top opening channel between the cover and the face of the panel. Outer slide 60 is attached to cover 52 and is stationary therewith. Slide 60 receives and supports the intermediate slide 58 which receives and supports inner slide 56. Inner slide 56 is secured to and stationery with the privacy screen 10a which hangs below the slide 20 to keep the privacy screen close to the first panel 4. The lower telescopic slide is positioned below the privacy screen, thereby keeping the privacy screen close to the face of the panel.
The inner slide 56 is attached to the privacy screen 10a by the two connected "C" shaped members 50 and 51 which basically enclose the slides 56, 58 and 60 in a WH-9485CA 2 1 l 8 3 7 9 concealed manner. These members include interior slots for securement of the slides. A rearwardly opening gap 61 allows the "C" shaped members 50 and 51 to move without interference from the brackets 30. Member 51 provides a finished surface to the side of the privacy screen facing the hallway and member 50 provides a finished surface to the side of the privacy screen facing the workstation.
Both these members move with the privacy screen. The actual mechanical part of the slides is similar to telescopic slides used in filing cabinets.
Once the slides are secured, the privacy screen can then be mounted on the slides. The direction of slide can also be reversed to accommodate right or left hand opening without removing the privacy screen from the panel, which is described with reference to Figure 8.
Slide 22 is of a construction similar to slide 20 and conceals the mechanical components of the slide in the same manner.
Slides 20 and 22 shown in Figures 3 and 4 provide finished surfaces to both the interior and exterior of the workstation covering the slide mechanism when the screen closes the entryway 8 while still providing good structural strength and ease of operation.
With this arrangement, the first slide 56, the intermediate slide 58 and the outer slide 60, which are interconnected by ball bearings and guides, remain hidden from view by member 52 and members 50 and 51 in the flat screen design and members 29, 70 and 72 in the curved screen design.
Figure 5 shows the flat privacy screen 10a and how the slide components 56, 58 and 60, all telescope within each other and allow the privacy screen to overlap with the panel 4 leaving the entryway 8 open. In Figure 6, the first slide 56 has moved with the privacy screen 10 and as _ 7 _ WH-9485CA 21 l 8 3 7 9 required drawn the intermediate slide 58 therewith.
Intermediate slide 58 has at least 40~ overlap with slide 56, and outer slide 60. Thus, there remains a very high degree of overlap between the telescopic slide members and this provides sufficient structural stability to support the screen at any position. Slide 22 is mechanically fastened by brackets 25 to the structural frame of the office panel 4. If desired, the privacy screen can releasably engage a support point on the second panel for improved support.
Figure 8 illustrates how end caps 90 and 92 are attached to the structural covers 70 and 72 of telescopic slide 20 to close the ends of the slide and form a stop mechanism. The slide itself can slide in either direction.
End cap 90 is inserted in the end of structural cover 72, which is remote from the entryway. With this cap in place, the slide can only extend in one direction. End cap 92 is inserted in the opposite end of structural cover 72 and moves with the privacy screen. These stop members provide a finished surface at the ends of the telescopic slide.
The direction of the slide can be reversed by removing the end caps, extending the slide in the other direction, and reversing the ends of structural covers 70 and 72 to which the end caps 90 and 92 are secured. It can be appreciated from the above that end caps 90 and 92 each form a stop mechanism and define the direction of extension.
End caps 90 and 92 are the same and can be secured in any suitable manner. Set screws 94 can pass through holes 96 or 98 in structural covers 70 or 72 and lock with ports 99 in tabs 95 of the end caps.
It has been found that bowing of the substrate 14 within the rectangular frame 12 of the privacy screen stiffens the substrate and frame and also provides a look which is pleasing to the eye. Depending upon the material being used as the substrate as well as the size of the privacy screen 10, an intermediate support member can be _ g _ provided at the back of the privacy screen. This support opposes any tendency of the vertical members of the frame 12 to bow outwardly and also forms an interior handle for sliding the privacy screen.
The sheet substrate when made of a translucent plastic is lightweight, provides effective visual privacy and also blends with the existing panel system making it suitable for retrofit applications. The privacy screen can be made in different heights to suit different panel sizes.
The most common panel heights are approximately 51 inches and 66 inches. The mounting arrangement and positioning of the slides to one side of the panel allows off module connection and even mounting from across a junction between two panels. With this arrangement there is no requirement to have a panel of a specified width for a given privacy screen. The privacy screen is preferably of a width of about 36 inches.
Other lightweight substrates can also be used to provide a desired look while providing the workstation with visual privacy when desired. The privacy screen can also function to reduce noise to or from the workstation.
The privacy screen is easily adapted to office panel systems of different manufacturers by providing appropriate mounting brackets 25 and 30. These office panelling systems include panels having a rectangular frame with top and bottom horizontal members to which the slides can be secured.
Although various preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described herein in detail, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that variations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention or the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (30)
1. A system of office panels subdividing an open space into work stations with at least some of said work stations having an entryway through which a person can enter or exit one of work stations, each entryway being defined between a first panel and a spaced second panel, a privacy screen supported by and to one side of said first panel and movable from a position overlapping said one side of said first panel and defining an open position to an extended position closing said entryway, and wherein said privacy screen includes an outer frame supporting a non-transparent sheet substrate therewithin, and wherein said privacy screen is supported by at least one telescopic slide attached to said first panel and located intermediate said privacy screen and said first panel.
2. A system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said privacy screen is supported by upper and lowwer telescopic slides intermediate said screen and said panel.
3. A system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said at least one telescopic slide includes an upper telescopic slide attached to a horizontal structural member of said first panel and a lower telescopic slide attached to a structural base part of said first panel.
4. A system as claimed in claim 3 wherein each of said telescopic slides has at least 3 stages with at least 40%
overlap between adjacent stages when said privacy screen is moved to said extended position.
overlap between adjacent stages when said privacy screen is moved to said extended position.
5. A system as claimed in claim 4 wherein said privacy screen, between the open position and said extended position, is only supported from said first panel.
6. A system as claimed in claim 5 wherein said privacy screen at positions intermediate said open position said extended position is solely supported from said first panel.
7. A system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said sheet substrate is of a translucent material.
8. A system as claimed in claim 5 wherein said sheet substrate is outwardly curved away from said first panel between vertical sides of said frame.
9. A system as claimed in claim 1 wherein said sheet substrate is bowed outwardly away from said first panel between vertical sides of said frame.
10. A system as claimed in claim 9 wherein said substrate is of a thickness less than one quarter of an inch.
11. A system as claimed in claim 2 wherein said telescopic slides have cover members which conceal mechanical slide components of said telescopic slides to both sides of said privacy screen.
12. A system as claimed in claim 2 wherein each telescopic slide is mounted in a first housing fixed to said first panel and a second housing attached to said privacy screen which telescopes within said first housing, said housings conceal mechanical stages of said telescopic slide from normal view.
13. An office panelling system comprising a plurality of generally rectangular freestanding panels releasably connected to subdivide an open space wherein said rectangular panels include a first panel and a spaced second panel defining therebetween an entryway to a workstation defined by said panels, in combination with a privacy screen mounted on said rectangular panels, and wherein said privacy screen includes a mounting arrangement secured to said first panel to position said privacy screen to one side of said first panel accommodating movement of said privacy screen from a position where said privacy screen is overlapped with said first panel leaving said entryway open to an extended position where said privacy screen closes said entryway.
14. A system as claimed in claim 13 wherein said mounting arrangement includes a telescopic slide with a first end section secured to said first panel and a second end section secured to said privacy screen with said end sections telescoping relative to each other.
15. A system as claimed in claim 14 wherein said telescopic slide is secured to said first office panel and to said privacy screen adjacent an upper edge of said first panel.
16. A system as claimed in claim 15 wherein said telescopic slide includes an intermediate section which interconnects and telescopes with said first and second end sections of said telescopic slide.
17. A system as claimed in claim 13 wherein said mounting arrangement includes upper and lower telescopic slides which support said privacy screen from said first panel.
18. A system as claimed in claim 13 wherein said privacy screen has an outer frame supporting a lightweight non-transparent substrate therewithin.
19. A privacy screen secured to one side of an office panel and movable thereacross to an extended position, said privacy screen comprising a screen member supported by a mounting arrangement having a first part secured to a frame of said office panel and a second part secured to said screen member, said first part positioning said screen member immediately adjacent to said one side of said frame, said mounting arrangement accommodating horizontal sliding movement of the screen member between a first position and a second position, said screen in said second position being supported in a cantilevered manner generally beyond said office panel and in said first position said screen overlaps with said office panel.
20. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 19 wherein said second part of said mounting arrangement includes an elongate horizonal slide member attached to opposite sides of said screen member adjacent a horizontal top edge of said screen member.
21. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 19 wherein said screen member comprises a rectangular perimeter frame with a lightweight substrate contained therein which provided a visual block.
22. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 19 wherein said mounting arrangement includes a top support arrangement and a lower support arrangement, said top support arrangement including an elongate member with one end thereof fixed adjacent to a vertical edge of said screen member, said top support arrangement automatically extending in length with sliding movement of said screen member when said screen member moves from said first position to said second position and automatically reduces in length when said screen member moves from said second position towards said first position.
23. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 22 wherein said top and said lower support arrangements each include telescopic slides.
24. A privacy screen secured to an office panel of an office panelling system for selective closure of an entryway adjacent one end of said office panel, said privacy screen comprising a lightweight screen member, a slide mounting arrangement, said slide mounting arrangement including an elongate member fixed to a top edge of said screen member with said elongate member cooperating with an office panel support bracket secured to a frame member of said office panel said office panel support bracket having a first part secured to said frame member and a second part extending outwardly from and to one side of said first part, said second part slidingly supporting said elongate member and positioning said screen member generally forward of said first part such that said screen member immediately adjacent one side of said office panel and movable from a first position overlapping with said office panel to a second position closing said entryway.
25. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 24 wherein said mounting arrangement is adapted to accommodate sliding movement of said screen member between said first position and said second position where said second position can be to either side of said first position for accommodating a right or left securement of said privacy screen.
26. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 24 wherein said mounting arrangement includes telescopic slides.
27. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 24 wherein said mounting arrangement includes telescopic slides at a top and a bottom of said screen member.
28. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 24 wherein said first part of said mounting arrangement includes a horizontal flange with ports therein which receive fasteners securing said flange to said office panel frame.
29. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 24 wherein said slide mounting arrangement provides the sole support for said screen member.
30. A privacy screen as claimed in claim 29 wherein said screen member comprises a perimeter frame supporting a lightweight substrate which provides visual privacy.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
CA002178379A CA2178379C (en) | 1996-06-06 | 1996-06-06 | Privacy screen for office panelling systems |
AU29463/97A AU2946397A (en) | 1996-06-06 | 1997-06-03 | Privacy screen for office panelling systems |
PCT/CA1997/000383 WO1997046769A1 (en) | 1996-06-06 | 1997-06-03 | Privacy screen for office panelling systems |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
CA002178379A CA2178379C (en) | 1996-06-06 | 1996-06-06 | Privacy screen for office panelling systems |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
CA2178379A1 CA2178379A1 (en) | 1997-12-07 |
CA2178379C true CA2178379C (en) | 2003-08-19 |
Family
ID=4158354
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
CA002178379A Expired - Lifetime CA2178379C (en) | 1996-06-06 | 1996-06-06 | Privacy screen for office panelling systems |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
AU (1) | AU2946397A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2178379C (en) |
WO (1) | WO1997046769A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6233879B1 (en) | 1999-09-10 | 2001-05-22 | Groupe Pro-Plus Inc. | Double pivotable door |
FR2900425B1 (en) * | 2006-04-27 | 2011-04-01 | Graphik | SET OF ELEMENTS FOR MAKING A MOBILE ROOM |
US20220290494A1 (en) * | 2021-03-13 | 2022-09-15 | Rodney Hale Martin | Reversible Surface-Mounted Sliding Security Gate |
Family Cites Families (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE2502765C2 (en) * | 1975-01-24 | 1983-04-14 | Seawell S.A., Luxembourg | Room divider in the form of a partition |
US4535577A (en) * | 1982-12-15 | 1985-08-20 | Global Upholstery Company Limited | Office panelling system |
US5511348A (en) * | 1990-02-14 | 1996-04-30 | Steelcase Inc. | Furniture system |
-
1996
- 1996-06-06 CA CA002178379A patent/CA2178379C/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
-
1997
- 1997-06-03 WO PCT/CA1997/000383 patent/WO1997046769A1/en active Application Filing
- 1997-06-03 AU AU29463/97A patent/AU2946397A/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO1997046769A1 (en) | 1997-12-11 |
AU2946397A (en) | 1998-01-05 |
CA2178379A1 (en) | 1997-12-07 |
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