US20050162051A1 - Modular furniture system - Google Patents
Modular furniture system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20050162051A1 US20050162051A1 US10/512,786 US51278604A US2005162051A1 US 20050162051 A1 US20050162051 A1 US 20050162051A1 US 51278604 A US51278604 A US 51278604A US 2005162051 A1 US2005162051 A1 US 2005162051A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- cell
- cells
- furniture system
- end plates
- tile
- 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.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B83/00—Combinations comprising two or more pieces of furniture of different kinds
- A47B83/001—Office desks or work-stations combined with other pieces of furniture, e.g. work space management systems
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B47/00—Cabinets, racks or shelf units, characterised by features related to dismountability or building-up from elements
- A47B47/04—Cabinets, racks or shelf units, characterised by features related to dismountability or building-up from elements made mainly of wood or plastics
- A47B47/047—Modular arrangements of similar assemblies of elements
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B87/00—Sectional furniture, i.e. combinations of complete furniture units, e.g. assemblies of furniture units of the same kind such as linkable cabinets, tables, racks or shelf units
- A47B87/007—Linkable independent elements with the same or similar cross-section
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B87/00—Sectional furniture, i.e. combinations of complete furniture units, e.g. assemblies of furniture units of the same kind such as linkable cabinets, tables, racks or shelf units
- A47B87/02—Sectional furniture, i.e. combinations of complete furniture units, e.g. assemblies of furniture units of the same kind such as linkable cabinets, tables, racks or shelf units stackable ; stackable and linkable
- A47B87/0284—Cabinet systems consisting of stacked-and-linked uniform casings, each being a cabinet or drawer-holder, e.g. lockers, mail/file boxing systems
Definitions
- the present invention relates to modular furniture.
- the present application discloses a furniture system comprised of a plurality of basic building blocks, or cells.
- the cells serve as both storage space and division between work areas.
- the cells are adapted to be combined and arranged to provide an almost limitless variety of furniture system arrangements.
- the systems provide many advantages over traditional furniture systems, including, inter alia, cost and space savings, multi-directional loading and access, the ability to receive tiles, reduction in shadows cast, compatibility with traditional panels, and the capacity to enclose various connectors such as electrical wires and telephone and data cables.
- many modern office floor plans comprise open floor space that is subdivided by interconnected free-standing panels 80 .
- the panels 80 define boundaries of various work areas 82 .
- the panels 80 may support desktop work surfaces 84 and storage units 86 , such as drawers or shelves.
- the drawers and shelves 86 are often attached to the panels 80 or to the desktop 84 either above or below the desktop work surface.
- the storage units 86 project outwardly from the panels 80 , either above or below the desktop 84 .
- U.S. patents describe typical panel systems, including U.S. Pat. No. 3,425,171 to Propst et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,325,597 to Morrison, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,567,698 to Morrison.
- Office spaces are generally lit with banks of overhead lights. Thus, work area storage space that is positioned above the desktop casts downward shadows onto the desktop. The X's in FIGS. 27 and 28 represent these shadows. Many workers must supplement the available overhead light with a desk lamp. This extra lamp occupies work area space that could be better used if the extra lamp were not necessary. The extra lamp also increases the cost of the typical panel-based furniture system.
- Storage units that are positioned beneath the desktop occupy space that might otherwise be occupied by a worker's legs and feet.
- the worker cannot sit at the desktop directly in front of the storage units because he or she must sit back from the desktop a sufficient distance to prevent his or her knees from banging against the storage units.
- This necessary separation of the worker from the desktop prevents the worker from being able to comfortably use the desktop space directly above the storage units.
- the storage units beneath the desktop effectively cast shadows upwardly, limiting the uses for large portions of desktop space.
- the dotted lines in FIGS. 27 and 28 represent these shadows.
- Storage units positioned beneath work surfaces also limit the heights to which those work surfaces can be adjusted.
- pedestal units and lateral files may provide storage space without attachment.
- a pedestal comprises a free-standing bank of drawers that is typically positioned beneath the desktop. Thus, pedestals create the same problems described above by casting shadows upwardly and limiting vertical adjustment of the work surface.
- a lateral file similarly comprises a free-standing bank of drawers. Lateral files may be of similar height to typical pedestals, or may be taller. Lateral files are typically positioned in front of panels and next to or spaced from the desktop.
- lateral files are positioned in front of panels, they do not use available floor space efficiently.
- One or more surfaces of the lateral file (such as the rear surface and one side surface) abut surfaces of the panels. These “redundant surfaces” are always hidden from view. If the panel were not necessary to divide the adjacent work areas, the lateral file could be pushed outward relative to its respective work area. This expansion would recover lost floor space and eliminate some redundant surfaces.
- Newell et al. disclose a cabinet structure having vertically extending corner recesses. Each recess is adapted to receive an elongate corner trim element.
- the corner trim element has a rounded convex configuration on one side thereof, and a generally square corner configuration on the other side thereof.
- the corner trim element can be positioned in any of the recesses in two different orientations, such that either the rounded or the square corner configuration is exposed.
- the corner trim element When the square corner configuration is exposed, the corner trim element provides a vertically elongate groove.
- the groove accommodates one-half of a connecting element, such as a vertical hinge element, for permitting the corner of the cabinet to be secured to another furniture component, such as another cabinet or an upright wall panel.
- Beirise discloses an office furniture module.
- the module comprises a body portion having a removable top portion and a removable bottom member. A space between the top portion and an upper surface of the body portion defines an upper horizontally extending passageway. A space between the bottom member and a lower end of the body portion defines a lower horizontally extending passageway. Removable upper and lower insert panels cover openings in the body portion.
- the modules When the furniture module is placed next to other identical furniture modules, the modules include upper and lower horizontally extending passageways therethrough.
- Newell et al. discloses only apparatus for connecting a file cabinet to a panel. This interconnection enables the elimination of some panels, but does not provide any other substantial benefit.
- Beirise discloses a module that can be combined with other modules to form work areas, but the range of applications for the module are limited.
- the module has a closed back side. Therefore, to create adjacent work areas that are divided by the module, two modules must be positioned back-to-back, as shown in FIG. 1 of Beirise, in order to provide storage space to both work areas.
- the modules When the modules are positioned back-to-back, they occupy more floor space than they save by eliminating panels, and they create redundant surfaces.
- a furniture system that overcomes these limitations would be of great benefit to environments that use modular furniture.
- the furniture system would preferably comprise a versatile base unit that creates cost and space savings, provides multi-directional loading and access, possesses the ability to receive tiles, reduces shadows, is compatible with traditional panels, and provides the capacity to enclose various connectors such as electrical wires and telephone and data cables.
- the preferred embodiments of the present modular furniture system have several features, no single one of which is solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this modular furniture system as expressed by the claims that follow, its more prominent features will now be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments,” one will understand how the features of the preferred embodiments provide advantages, which include providing a versatile base unit that serves as both storage space and division between neighboring work spaces, thus conserving raw materials and recovering floor space, provides multidirectional loading and access, possesses the ability to receive tiles, reduces shadows, is compatible with traditional panels, provides the capacity to enclose various connectors such as electrical wires and telephone and data cables, and is adapted to support work surfaces and dividing panels.
- a preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell that is adapted to be combined with other similar cells to form a furniture system.
- the cell comprises first and second spaced end plates, and at least one horizontal support beam.
- the cell is adapted to receive a storage component from both a first side and a second side opposite the first side.
- the present modular furniture system comprises a cell that is adapted to be combined with other similar cells to form a furniture system.
- the cell comprises first and second spaced end plates, and at least one horizontal support beam.
- the at least one horizontal support beam comprises a crossbar with posts disposed at either end thereof. The posts are substantially parallel to one another and also substantially perpendicular to the crossbar.
- Another preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell defining a storage space therein.
- the storage space is at least partially bounded by first and second spaced end plates and at least one horizontal support beam.
- the modular furniture system further comprises a tile that is securable between the end plates to thereby define a further boundary of the cell.
- Another preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell defining a storage space therein.
- the storage space is at least partially bounded by first and second spaced end plates and at least one horizontal support beam.
- the modular furniture system further comprises a tile that is securable to either of the end plates to thereby at least partially cover the end plate.
- FIG. 1 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an end plate of the present modular furniture system
- FIG. 2 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system
- FIG. 3 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system
- FIG. 4 is an exploded front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, comprising two of the end plates of FIG. 1 and two of the horizontal support beams of FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 5 an assembled front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 4 ;
- FIG. 6 is a front left-side perspective view of two of the cells of FIG. 5 , illustrating a vertical stacking arrangement of the cells;
- FIG. 7 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a foundation of the present modular furniture system
- FIG. 8 is a partially exploded front left-side perspective view of the foundation of FIG. 7 , and two foundation supports;
- FIG. 9 is a partially exploded front left-side perspective view of two of the foundations of FIG. 7 , and two foundation supports, illustrating a horizontally adjacent arrangement of the foundations;
- FIG. 10 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of the components of FIG. 9 ;
- FIG. 11 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a bridge for connecting horizontally adjacent cells
- FIG. 12 is a front left-side perspective view of four of the cells of FIG. 5 , illustrating a vertical stacking arrangement of the cells upon the foundation of FIG. 7 , and illustrating, in exploded fashion, possible positions for the bridges of FIG. 11 ;
- FIG. 13 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of FIG. 12 , illustrating the bridges connected to the cells;
- FIG. 14 is a top plan view of two of the cells of FIG. 5 , illustrating the cells connected by two of the bridges of FIG. 11 ;
- FIG. 15 is a front left-side perspective view of three of the cells of FIG. 5 , illustrating a vertical stacking arrangement of the cells upon the foundation of FIG. 7 , and illustrating, in exploded fashion, possible positions for additional slotted posts;
- FIG. 16 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of FIG. 15 , illustrating the posts connected to the cells, and illustrating, in exploded fashion, possible positions for support brackets;
- FIG. 17 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of FIG. 16 , illustrating the support brackets connected to the cells;
- FIG. 18 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of FIG. 17 , illustrating a desktop supported atop the support brackets;
- FIG. 19 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side columns of vertically stacked cells of FIG. 5 , illustrating the ability of the stacks to provide storage space to work areas on either side of the stacks;
- FIG. 20 is a front left-side perspective view of two stacked cells of FIG. 5 atop the foundation of FIG. 7 , further illustrating a raceway extending across the upper cell;
- FIG. 21 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of FIG. 20 , further illustrating a drawer received within the upper cell;
- FIG. 22 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of FIG. 21 , wherein the raceway is positioned between the two cells;
- FIG. 23 is a left-side cross-sectional view of the components of FIG. 21 , taken along the line 23 - 23 ;
- FIG. 24 is a left-side cross-sectional view of the components of FIG. 22 , taken along the line 24 - 24 ;
- FIG. 25 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side finished cell stacks, illustrating the ability of the individual cells in the stacks to receive a variety of different storage components;
- FIG. 26 is a front left-side perspective view of a finished work area incorporating the cells of FIG. 5 , and illustrating the versatility of the cells;
- FIGS. 27 and 28 are top plan views of arrangements of prior art panel-type furniture systems
- FIGS. 29 and 30 are top plan views of sample arrangements of the present modular furniture system
- FIG. 31 is a front left-side perspective view of four horizontally adjacent stacks of the cells of FIG. 5 , illustrating the capacity of the cells to internally accommodate electrical wiring and data cabling,
- FIG. 32 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system.
- FIG. 33 is a left-side elevational view of the cell of FIG. 32 ;
- FIG. 34 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , including another preferred embodiment of a foundation;
- FIG. 35 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side columns of vertically stacked cells of FIG. 32 ;
- FIG. 36 is a left-side elevational view of the cell stacks of FIG. 35 ;
- FIG. 37 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a hanging file drawer and a tile;
- FIG. 38 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a shelf and a tile;
- FIG. 39 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive cabinet-style doors and a tile;
- FIG. 40 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a closed drawer and a tile;
- FIG. 41 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a closed drawer and a tile, with the drawer being inserted from a side opposite that shown in FIG. 40 and the tile being attached to a side opposite that shown in FIG. 40 ;
- FIG. 42 is a front left-side perspective view of a column of vertically stacked cells of FIG. 32 , illustrating trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating horizontal raceways;
- FIG. 43 is a front left-side perspective view of the cage of FIG. 32 , illustrating a drawer received within the cell and a tray atop the cell, the tray creating a horizontal raceway;
- FIG. 44 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side columns of vertically stacked cells of FIG. 32 , illustrating trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating horizontal raceways, wires passing through the horizontal and vertical raceways, and electrical outlets;
- FIG. 45 is a front left-side perspective view of a possible arrangement of the present modular furniture system.
- FIG. 46 is a front right-side perspective view of the arrangement of FIG. 45 ;
- FIG. 47 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive tiles;
- FIG. 48 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a roll-up covering and a tile;
- FIG. 49 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 ;
- FIG. 50 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , illustrating a tray atop the cell, the tray creating a raceway,
- FIG. 51 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 32 , illustrating a drawer received within the cell, and a tray below the cell, the tray creating a raceway,
- FIG. 52 is a front left-side perspective view of two vertically stacked cells of FIG. 32 , illustrating drawers received within the cells from the back side thereof, trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating a raceway, tiles received on front faces of the cells, and electrical outlets on the front faces of the cells;
- FIG. 53 is a front left-side perspective view of two columns of vertically stacked cells of FIG. 32 , illustrating drawers received within the cells from the back side thereof, trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating a raceway, tiles received on front faces of the cells, and electrical outlets on the front faces of the cells between the two stacks;
- FIG. 54 is a partially exploded front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, and another preferred embodiment of a foundation;
- FIG. 55 is a front left-side perspective view of a column of vertically stacked cells of FIG. 54 and the foundation of FIG. 54 ;
- FIG. 56 is a partially exploded perspective view of the cell stack of FIG. 55 ;
- FIG. 57 is a front left-side perspective view of the end plate of FIG. 1 and two of the horizontal support beams of FIG. 2 ;
- FIG. 58 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of end plates and a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system
- FIG. 59 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, including the end plates and horizontal support beam of FIG. 58 ;
- FIG. 60 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of an end plate a a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system, including T connectors;
- FIG. 61 is an exploded front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of end plates and horizontal support beams of the present modular furniture system
- FIG. 62 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, the cell comprising the components of FIG. 61 ;
- FIG. 63 is a front left-side perspective view of two vertically stacked cells of FIG. 62 ;
- FIG. 64 is an exploded front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system.
- FIG. 65 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of the cell of FIG. 64 ;
- FIG. 66 is a front left-side perspective view of one of the end plates, two of the T connectors and the horizontal support beam of FIG. 64 .
- the present modular furniture system is particularly well adapted for use in office environments.
- the description below focuses on the use of the furniture system in an office environment.
- the present modular furniture system is also adapted for use in other environments, such as homes, manufacturing and assembly facilities, etc.
- the present modular furniture system provides a basic building block, or cell, that can be combined with other building blocks to construct work spaces.
- the groupings of building blocks can be arranged in an almost limitless number of ways.
- the groupings serve as both storage space and division between neighboring work spaces, thus conserving raw materials, recovering floor space and reducing shadows.
- the cells provide multi-directional loading and access, and are well suited for receiving tiles.
- the groupings also provide raceways for concealing electrical wires and telephone and data cables, and are adapted for supporting horizontal work surfaces and vertical panels.
- the cell 100 pictured in FIGS. 4 and 5 comprises one preferred embodiment of the basic building block of the present modular furniture system.
- Each cell 100 preferably comprises first and second end plates 102 connected to one another by at least one horizontal support beam 104 .
- the word beam encompasses any horizontal cross member reaching between two end plates, regardless of the shape, size, length, thickness, width, etc. of such beam.
- each cell 100 includes first and second upper support beams 104 , and first and second lower support beams 104 .
- vertically contiguous cells 100 preferably share common support beams 104 .
- a given support beam 104 may act as an upper support beam 104 for a cell 100 beneath it, and as a lower support beam 104 for a cell 100 above it.
- FIG. 1 presents a detailed view of a preferred embodiment of the end plates 102 .
- each end plate 102 is substantially flat and rectangular.
- the end plates 102 could have virtually any perimeter shape, such as triangular, hexagonal, round, etc.
- Portions of the perimeter of each end plate 102 preferably include scores or perforations 106 .
- the scores or perforations 106 define removable tabs 108 .
- the removable tabs 108 provide clearance for raceways 166 that house electrical wiring and/or data cables, as described below.
- the illustrated end plate 102 includes surface features that help to increase the rigidity of the end plate 102 .
- a first surface 110 of the illustrated end plate 102 includes two spaced channels 112 .
- a second surface of the end plate 102 opposite the first surface 110 , includes raised ridges opposite the channels.
- Each channel 112 runs in a substantially vertical direction from an upper edge 114 of the plate 102 to a lower edge 116 thereof.
- Each channel 112 contains a plurality of vertically spaced through-holes 118 .
- the through holes 118 are adapted to receive fastening members (not shown), such as screws or bolts, that secure the end plates 102 to the horizontal support beams 104 , as described below.
- Side edges 120 of the end plates 102 are preferably bent approximately ninety degrees out of the plane of the plate 102 toward the second surface of the plate 102 . These bent edges 120 further increase the rigidity of the end plates 102 .
- the end plates 102 could include additional surface features to further increase the rigidity of the end plates 102 .
- each end plate 102 could include additional vertical channels, located either between the two spaced channels 112 described above or outside these channels 112 .
- the end plates 102 could also include generally horizontal channels.
- FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate preferred embodiments of the horizontal support beam 104 .
- the beam 104 comprises an elongate, horizontally oriented cross bar 122 .
- the cross bar 122 is tubular in order to reduce the raw material costs of manufacturing the beam.
- the illustrated cross bar 122 has a cross-section that is generally rectangular with rounded corners. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the cross bar 122 could have virtually any cross-section, including hexagonal or round.
- Opposite ends of the cross bar 122 include generally vertical posts 124 .
- the beam 104 of FIG. 2 is adapted to reside between vertically adjacent cells 100 , as illustrated in FIG. 6 . Therefore, each post 124 extends both upward and downward from the cross bar 122 .
- the beam 102 of FIG. 3 is adapted to reside above an uppermost cell 100 , as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13 . Therefore, each post 124 extends only downward from the cross bar 122 .
- a cross-section of each post 124 is generally C-shaped. This cross-section provides high bending strength without requiring a large amount of material.
- the posts 124 could have virtually any cross-section, including a figure-eight with one open side, or substantially rectangular. Front and rear edges of the posts 124 preferably include vertically spaced slots 126 .
- the slots 126 provide mounting points for work surfaces, shelves and other structures, as described below.
- Inside edges of each post 124 include vertically spaced through holes 128 that align with the through holes 118 in the end plates 102 , as shown in FIG. 5 .
- Fastening members extend through the through holes 118 in the end plates 102 and the through holes 128 in the posts 124 to releasably secure the two together.
- the posts 124 could be secured to the end plates 102 using other fastening members besides screws or bolts. These components could also be secured to each other without fastening members, such as by using an adhesive, or a tab and slot arrangement, for example.
- the end plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 are preferably constructed of metal.
- a preferred metal is mild steel.
- the end plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 could be constructed from non-metal materials, such as plastics or composites.
- the end plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 could have any dimensions to suit any application. However, to reduce manufacturing costs, the end plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 can also be manufactured in standard sizes. Consumers can then pick and choose from the available standard sizes in order to construct their own furniture system.
- Preferred dimensions for the standard-sized end plates 102 include (expressed as height ⁇ width): 14′′ ⁇ 17′′, 21′′ ⁇ 17′′, 28′′ ⁇ 17′′, 35′′ ⁇ 17′′ and 42′′ ⁇ 17′′.
- the preferred width of 17′′ of for each end plate 102 results in an approximate depth of 18′′ for each cell 100 when tiles and storage components are added to the cell 100 , as described below.
- Preferred lengths for the standard-sized horizontal support beams 104 include: 18′′, 24′′, 30′′, 36′′, 42′′ and 48′′.
- the cells 100 are adapted to be stacked on top of one another and arranged side-by-side, as shown in FIGS. 6, 12 , 15 and 16 , for example.
- each of the cells 100 has substantially the same height as the other cells 100 .
- vertically stacked cells 100 could have varying heights.
- Vertically adjacent cells 100 share a common horizontal support beam 104 .
- the upwardly extending portions of the end posts 124 are secured to the upper cell 100
- the downwardly extending portions of the end posts 124 are secured to the lower cell 100 .
- Each cell 100 in the lowermost layer of cells 100 rests atop a foundation 130 , which is illustrated in FIG. 7 .
- Each foundation 130 preferably comprises a pair of spaced parallel end bars 132 that extend front-to-back.
- a pair of spaced parallel cross bars 134 extend side-to-side and connect the end bars 132 .
- a cross-section of the illustrated end bars 132 resembles a corrugated pattern.
- a ridge 136 with a flat top extends along the length of each end bar 132 .
- a cross-section of the illustrated cross bars 134 is substantially rectangular.
- Ends of the cross bars 134 preferably seat within channels 138 on the inside edges of the end bars 132 .
- Flanges 140 extend upwardly from the end bars 132 .
- One flange 140 is preferably positioned adjacent the end of each cross bar 134 .
- the flanges 140 could be positioned differently, and that fewer or more flanges 140 could be provided.
- Lower ends of each end plate 102 seat between the ridge 136 of one of the end bars 132 and the respective flanges 140 .
- foundation supports 142 such as, for example, glides or wheels, are preferably releasably securable to the foundations 130 .
- each corner of each foundation 130 includes a foundation support 142 .
- adjacent foundations 130 preferably share foundation supports 142 , as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10 , to keep the raw material cost of the present furniture system as low as possible.
- the foundation supports 142 preferably provide clearance between the foundation 130 and the floor upon which the cells 100 sit. This clearance provides a raceway for housing electrical wiring or telephone/data cabling. Thus, wiring and cabling can be conveniently channeled through groups of cells 100 to provide power and data hookups to individual work areas, while the wiring and cabling remains hidden from view.
- each foundation support 142 preferably comprises a horizontal bar 144 that passes through one of the flanges 140 , through the corresponding end bar 132 , and extends into an end of one of the cross bars 134 .
- a substantially cylindrical vertical post 146 extends through an end of the horizontal bar 144 opposite the cross bar 134 .
- a substantially disk-shaped glide 148 is secured to a lower end of the post 146 .
- a flat lower surface of each glide 148 opposite the post 146 rests on the floor.
- Each glide 148 is preferably constructed of a low-friction material such that it slides relatively easily over the floor. The glides 148 thus facilitate sliding the lowermost cell 100 , and any cells 100 stacked on top of the lowermost cell 100 , across the floor.
- the post 146 is preferably threaded, and preferably engages the horizontal bar 144 such that a distance between the horizontal bar 144 and the glide 148 is variable.
- the glides 148 thus enable the cells 100 to be level, even if the cells 100 are sitting on an uneven surface. By varying the distance between the horizontal bar 144 and the glide 148 , the glides 148 can compensate for depressions, bumps or slants in the floor.
- the glides 148 could be replaced by wheels, which would further enhance the mobility of the cells 100 .
- the glides 148 could be constructed of a high-friction material, or covered on their lower surfaces with a high-friction material. Such glides 148 would lessen the mobility of the cells 100 , which may be desirable to prevent the cells 100 from shifting unexpectedly.
- the foundations 130 could rest directly on the floor.
- the cells 100 are adapted to be arranged horizontally adjacent one another.
- Horizontally adjacent cells 100 may be connected to one another, or may simply rest on the floor next to one another, without being physically connected.
- the assembly is advantageously more sturdy than a collection of unconnected cells 100 .
- the connected cells 100 offer support to the adjacent cells 100 , reducing the potential of any one stack of cells 100 to tip over.
- FIG. 11 illustrates a preferred connecting member, or bridge 150 .
- the bridges 150 reside between adjacent cells 100 , as shown in FIGS. 12-14 , such that the opposite ends of each bridge 150 abut the end plates 102 of adjacent cells 100 .
- Each bridge 150 is shaped as a substantially C-shaped shallow channel.
- Downward opening hooks 152 extend from the side walls 154 of the channel in a direction opposite the base 156 of the channel. In the illustrated embodiment, three hooks 152 extend from each side wall 154 .
- Those of skill in the art will appreciate that fewer or more hooks 152 could be provided.
- each bridge 150 engages the vertically spaced slots 126 on one of the posts 124 of a particular cell 100 .
- the hooks 152 on the opposite side of each bridge 150 engage the vertically spaced slots 126 on one of the posts 124 of an adjacent cell 100 .
- a width of each bridge 150 determines the spacing between the adjacent stacks of cells 100 , as shown in FIG. 14 .
- the bridges 150 could have any width as desired to provide the desired spacing. In fact, the bridges 150 could be so narrow that adjacent cells 100 actually contact one another. Preferably, at least four bridges 150 connect adjacent cell stacks. However, fewer or more bridges 150 could be provided to suit particular applications.
- horizontally adjacent cells 100 can be connected to one another without the use of a separate component like the bridge 150 .
- hooks (not shown) on one cell 100 could engage slots (not shown) on the adjacent cell 100 to connect the cells 100 .
- each bridge 150 could embody a variety of other shapes.
- each bridge 150 could be shaped as a substantially rectangular box with two oppositely facing concave side walls.
- End walls of each rectangular bridge 150 would preferably include apertures for receiving connecting members, such as bolts or screws.
- the apertures in the end walls would align with the apertures in the end plates 102 .
- the connecting members would cooperate with the end plate apertures and the bridge apertures to secure the bridges 150 to the end plates 102 , thereby securing the adjacent cells 100 to one another.
- front and rear edges of the posts 124 preferably include vertically spaced slots 126 .
- Additional slotted vertical members 158 may fill the gaps between vertically adjacent posts 124 , as illustrated in FIGS. 15 and 16 .
- the vertically spaced slots 126 are adapted to receive not only the hooks 152 on the bridges 150 , but also vertically spaced hooks 152 that project from mounting brackets 160 , as illustrated in FIGS. 16 and 17 .
- the illustrated mounting brackets 160 are substantially triangular, and include a plurality of vertically spaced hooks 152 projecting from a rear edge thereof.
- the upper edges of the brackets 160 provide support for various surfaces, such as desktops, shelves, etc.
- the upper edge of each bracket may include a protruding tab 162 defining a substantially horizontal plane.
- the tab 162 provides a fastening surface for securing the bracket 160 to the surface that it supports.
- a screw may cooperate with an aperture in the tab 162 and penetrate the supported surface to secure the surface to the bracket 160 .
- FIG. 18 illustrates a desktop 164 supported at one end by a pair of brackets 160 . (Only one of the brackets 160 is visible in FIG. 18 ).
- FIGS. 20-24 illustrate stacks of cells 100 having raceways 166 .
- the raceway 166 comprises empty space that passes through the cells 100 .
- the raceways 166 may be bounded on one or more sides by trays 168 .
- the trays 168 form channels that extend across cells 100 from one end plate 102 to the opposite end plate 102 .
- One tray 168 may be provided to form an open channel, as shown in FIGS. 20, 21 and 23 .
- two trays 168 that face each other may be provided to form a closed channel, as shown in FIGS. 22 and 24 .
- the raceways 166 may extend across the top of an uppermost cell 100 , as shown in FIGS. 20, 21 and 23 , or the raceways 166 may extend between vertically adjacent cells 100 , as shown in FIGS. 22 and 24 .
- the raceways 166 may provide paths for electrical wiring and/or data cables.
- the trays 168 provide support to the wiring and cables so that they don't sag and interfere with other components within each cell 100 .
- the wiring and cables could instead be supported by their own tension.
- a tension inducing device such as a clip, could grip the wiring and cables, pulling them taut.
- the raceways 166 may also serve as air ducts for heating and cooling systems, or house pipes that carry water, gas, etc.
- a technician removes tabs 108 ( FIG. 20 ) from the end panels 102 .
- the technician may, but need not, insert trays 168 into the spaces formed by the removed tabs 108 .
- the spaces occupied by the tabs 108 at the center of the upper and lower edges 114 , 116 of the end plates 102 provide clearance for raceways 166 that run along the center of each cell 100 as measured in a front-to-back direction.
- the spaces occupied by the tabs 108 at the corners of the end plates 102 provide clearance for raceways 166 that run along the front and/or rear faces of each cell 100 .
- FIG. 31 illustrates wiring 170 and data cabling 172 extending through adjacent stacks of cells 100 .
- the wires 170 and data cables 172 extend horizontally through the raceways 166 and upward or downward through gaps between adjacent cell stacks.
- data cables 172 may extend upward from a floor conduit 174 , through a vertical passageway between two adjacent stacks, then horizontally through the stacks to deliver data to neighboring work areas.
- the cells 100 are adapted to receive storage components, such as drawers 176 , cabinet-style doors 178 , shelves 180 and other similar components, as shown in FIGS. 19 , 21 - 24 , 25 and 26 .
- the cells 100 are also adapted to receive a variety of other components that are not illustrated.
- a non-exhaustive list of such components includes the following: an accessory panel within the cell 100 that is accessible from both sides of the cell 100 , work surfaces that can either hang out of the cell 100 or roll out of the cell 100 , electronic equipment such as rack mounted equipment, a roll-out shelf mounted on drawer slides, accessory panels, lighting fixtures, computer equipment, office electronics (such as faxes, printers and monitors), air ducts and registers, heating elements, refrigeration units, coolers, kitchen equipment (such as microwaves), stereo equipment (such as receivers, speakers and equalizers), video electronics (such as VCR's and DVD players), sinks, cages, seat cushions (so that a lower cell can act as a bench), air filtration equipment, wireless transmitters and antennas for wireless office networking.
- electronic equipment such as rack mounted equipment, a roll-out shelf mounted on drawer slides
- accessory panels lighting fixtures, computer equipment, office electronics (such as faxes, printers and monitors), air ducts and registers, heating elements, refrigeration units, coolers, kitchen equipment (
- the cells 100 collectively form wall-like structures that can be used to divide neighboring work areas, as shown in FIGS. 26, 29 and 30 .
- FIGS. 21-24 illustrate the drawers 176 are capable of being mounted within the cells 100 such that the drawers 176 do not interfere with the raceways 166 .
- the cells 100 are adapted to receive tiles 182 ( FIGS. 19 and 21 - 26 ).
- the illustrated tiles 182 are substantially flat and rectangular, and may be secured to the inside or outside of the cells 100 .
- a single tile 182 may cover more than one cell 100 .
- the tiles 182 may have any of a variety of outer surfaces, and may be designed to perform a wide variety of different functions.
- the tiles can be covered with a painted surface, a fabric surface, or a vinyl surface.
- the tiles can provide, for example, desired acoustics, windows, lighting, tackable surfaces, marker receiving surfaces, data display surfaces, displays, wire management, heating/cooling and air circulation.
- each end plate includes a plurality of apertures 190 .
- the illustrated end plates 102 include four apertures 190 , with one aperture being located near each corner of the end plate 102 .
- the end plates 102 could include more or fewer apertures 190 .
- the apertures 190 are adapted to receive tabs or hooks or other similar attachment structures (not shown) that protrude from the tiles 182 .
- tab includes any attachment structure that is adapted to engage one of the apertures 190 .
- Such attachment structure could include, for example, clips, snaps, pins and teeth.
- the arrangement of the tabs and apertures could be reversed, i.e. the tabs could be on the end plates 102 and the apertures 190 on the tiles 182 .
- a tile 182 that is designed to cover the front and/or rear opening of a cell 100 preferably includes four tabs protruding from opposite ends thereof with two tabs protruding from each end.
- the tabs which may be spring loaded for ease of installation, project through the apertures 190 in opposing end plates 102 , thus locking the tile 182 between the end plates 102 .
- the tiles 182 may be used to cover the back side of a cell 100 where a drawer 176 or other storage component has been inserted from a front side of that cell 100 .
- the tile 182 may present any of the aesthetic or functional surfaces described above.
- a tile 182 that is designed to cover an exposed surface of an end plate 182 preferably includes four tabs protruding from an inside surface thereof. The tabs project through the apertures 190 in a single end plate 102 .
- the tile 182 provides a cover for the end of a cell 100 or cell stack 184 .
- the tile 182 may present any of the aesthetic or functional surfaces described above.
- each cell 100 or cell stack 184 may be covered with a top cap 192 .
- the top cap 192 is securable to the cell stack 184 using conventional methods, such as tabs and slots, and provides any of the aesthetic or functional surfaces described above with respect to the tiles 182 .
- the top cap 192 provides some clearance between an underside of the top cap 192 and the top of the cell 100 upon which the top cap 192 sits. This clearance forms a raceway for housing electrical wiring and telephone/data cabling.
- each cell stack 184 is adapted to receive ends of panels 186 .
- These panels 186 may be traditional style panels that are commonly used in current furniture systems.
- the panels 186 may be opaque, transparent or translucent, and may be designed to provide a pleasing appearance and/or to muffle sound.
- the ends of the panels 186 may include hooks (not shown), so that the hooks engage the vertically spaced slots 126 in the posts 124 .
- the panels 186 may be connected to the cells 100 by other conventional means, such as by using screws or bolts.
- the panels 186 together with the stacks 184 , define boundaries of each work area. Because the cell stacks 184 do not sit in front of the panels 186 , as storage units do in traditional panel systems, the stacks 184 eliminate redundant surfaces and recover floor space. Each work area includes an abundance of storage space in the stacks 184 , and a large work surface 188 . Because all storage space is located in the stacks 184 , no storage units are located above or below the work surface 188 . Thus, the storage space does not cast shadows downward or upward within the work area.
- the cell 100 is relatively small when compared to the overall size of a typical work area.
- the cells 100 can be manufactured in different sizes, as explained above.
- many cells 100 can be combined in a wide variety of different ways sizes.
- FIG. 19 illustrates two adjacent stacks of four cells 100 each. These stacks are integrated into the work area illustrated in FIG. 26 . If desired, each stack could include fewer or more than four rows of cells 100 to provide a convenient height for the stacks, and to provide adequate storage space for a given work area.
- each cell 100 can also be varied to tailor the stacks to achieve work space goals.
- the two lower cells 100 and the uppermost cell 100 are all of substantially the same height.
- the cell 100 that is next to the top is substantially taller than the rest.
- horizontally adjacent cells 100 are of equal height to avoid interruptions in the raceways 166 .
- every cell 100 in a given stack is preferably of equal width so that the posts 124 at the end of the horizontal support beams 104 align with the end plates 102 of vertically adjacent cells 100 .
- FIGS. 19 and 25 illustrate two adjacent stacks of cells 100 .
- the drawers 176 are inserted from a front side of the left-hand stack of cells 100 , and the door 178 is secured to the front side of the uppermost cell in that same stack.
- the drawers 176 are inserted from a back side of the right-hand stack of cells 100 , and the door 178 is secured to the back side of the uppermost cell in that same stack.
- the arrows pointing away from the cell stacks 184 indicate the direction in which the storage components in that cell stack open.
- drawers 176 and other storage components can be inserted from both a front side and a back side of a single stack of cells 100 .
- a lower cell 100 may have a drawer 176 inserted from a front side, while a cell 100 stacked on top of that cell 100 may have a drawer inserted from a back side.
- This versatility enables a single cell stack to serve as storage space for two adjacent work areas.
- FIGS. 32 and 33 illustrate another preferred embodiment of the cell 200 of the present modular furniture system.
- the cell 200 comprises first and second end plates 202 , which are preferably substantially rectangular. Each corner of the first end plate 202 is joined to a corresponding corner of the second end plate 202 by a bar 204 , thus forming a substantially rectangular cell 200 .
- the cell 200 is preferably manufactured out of metal, but can be made of any rigid material. A preferred metal is steel.
- the dimensions of the cell 200 can vary depending on the needs of particular office personnel.
- a plurality of cells 200 are stacked vertically and/or side-by-side, as illustrated in FIGS. 35 and 36 , to create storage space and/or walls.
- FIGS. 45 and 46 illustrate finished cell stacks arranged to create dividers 264 between adjacent work areas.
- the dividers 264 advantageously also serve as storage space.
- stacked cells 200 need not have the same dimensions as one another. For example, a taller cell 206 may be stacked together with a shorter cell 208 .
- a cell 200 that rests directly on the floor includes an attached foundation 209 , which is illustrated in FIG. 34 .
- the foundation 209 comprises an elongate longitudinal bar 211 with a cross bar 213 attached at either end.
- the cross bars 213 are parallel to and secured to the first and second end plates 202 .
- the longitudinal bar 211 is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the cell 200 and passes underneath a center of the cell 200 from the first end plate 202 to the second end plate 202 .
- the foundation 209 increases the stiffness and sturdiness of the cell 200 or stack of cells 200 , thereby reducing the likelihood that a stack might topple over and injure someone.
- a lower surface 215 of each end 217 of each cross bar 211 preferably includes a glide 219 .
- Each glide 219 comprises a substantially disk-shaped runner 221 having a substantially cylindrical post 223 attached to a flat face.
- the post 223 which may be threaded, preferably penetrates the lower surface 215 of the cross bar 211 such that a flat surface of the runner 221 opposite the post 223 rests fiat on the floor.
- the runner 221 is preferably constructed of a low-friction material such that it slides relatively easily over the floor. The glides 219 thus facilitate moving the stack across the floor.
- the glides 219 enable the stack to be level, even if the stack is sitting on an uneven surface.
- the glides 219 can compensate for depressions, bumps or slants in the floor.
- Each cell 200 is adapted to function as a support structure for a variety of different components.
- a cell 200 may house a hanging file drawer 210 ( FIG. 37 ), shelving 212 ( FIG. 38 ), a single storage unit with doors 214 ( FIG. 39 ), a closed drawer 216 ( FIG. 40 ), a roll-up covering 218 ( FIG. 48 ), open space or other storage configurations.
- each of these components may be inserted from either side of the cell 200 .
- the hanging file drawer 210 shown in FIG. 37 is inserted from a first side
- the hanging file drawer 210 shown in FIG. 41 is inserted from a second side opposite the first side.
- Drawers 210 can also be inserted simultaneously from both sides of a single cell 200 .
- FIGS. 37-41 , 47 , 48 , 52 and 53 illustrate, the sides of the cell 200 other than the side from which the storage component is inserted may be covered with a tile 220 .
- the tile 220 may be manufactured from metal, wood or fabric, for example, or any combination of these materials.
- the tile 220 may merely provide a pleasing outward appearance for the cell 200 , or may also be a useful surface, as described above.
- opposite edges of end plates 202 of each cell 200 include indentations 222 as shown in FIG. 49 .
- the upper and lower edges of the end plates 202 include indentations 222 .
- front and rear edges of each end plate 202 could also include indentations 222 .
- the indentations 222 provide clearance for elongate trays 224 to be inserted between adjacent cells 200 , as shown in FIGS. 42-44 and 50 - 53 , or along outer sides of outermost cells 200 , as shown in FIGS. 43, 50 and 51 .
- the trays 224 are substantially U-shaped in cross-section and create raceways 226 along the sides of the cells 200 .
- a raceway 226 may be comprised of a portion of two adjacent trays 224 , each positioned such that the open portions of the “U” of each tray face each other. Alternatively, if not as much raceway space is necessary, a tray 224 may run through only one cell 200 , providing additional storage space in the adjacent cell 200 .
- the raceways 224 provide convenient paths for wires 228 to run horizontally along the cells 200 as shown in FIG. 44 .
- the wires 228 may be electrical wires, telephone and data wires, coaxial cables or any other type of conduit that is associated with modern office equipment.
- the trays 224 desirably have openings 230 ( FIGS. 42-44 and 50 ) along their length to permit outlets 232 and other connections such as telephone jacks to be conveniently positioned for office personnel, as shown in FIGS. 44, 52 and 53 .
- bosses 234 preferably extend outwardly from the ends of the cells 200 .
- the bosses of the cells 200 abut and create vertical raceways between the adjacent cells 200 .
- the bosses 234 create vertical raceways adjacent the ends of the cells 200 behind the panels 220 .
- the vertical raceways enable wires 228 to be threaded vertically as necessary through the interior of the furniture as shown in FIG. 44 .
- FIG. 54 illustrates another preferred embodiment of a cell 236 having the features and advantages of the cell 200 .
- the cell 236 which is illustrated partially exploded, comprises first and second end plates 238 .
- the end plates 238 are preferably substantially rectangular.
- Each end plate 238 preferably includes a plurality of outwardly facing bosses 240 .
- the bosses 240 create vertical raceways, as described above with reference to the cell 200 .
- Each end plate 238 also preferably includes first and second tabs 242 protruding from an upper edge 244 and first and second tabs 242 protruding from a lower edge 246 .
- a portion of the upper edge 244 between the tabs 242 comprises an indentation 248
- a portion of the upper edge 244 between the tabs 242 comprises an indentation 248 .
- the indentations 248 provide clearance for elongate trays, as described above with reference to the cell 200 .
- each crossbar 250 connects a tab 242 on one end plate 238 to a corresponding tab 242 on the opposite end plate 238 .
- the crossbars 250 may connect alternate portions of the end plates 250 .
- the cell 236 of FIG. 54 includes a foundation 252 comprising a rigid member connecting ends 254 of the two lower crossbars 250 .
- the lowermost cell 236 preferably includes a foundation 252 to increase the rigidity of the stack.
- Each foundation 252 may include glides 256 that enable the cell 236 to be more easily slid across a floor.
- the glides 256 also preferably enable the cell 236 to be leveled when sitting atop an uneven surface.
- FIG. 55 illustrates a stack of cells 236
- FIG. 56 illustrates the stack partially exploded.
- the stack may include cells 236 of different heights, as shown.
- Joints 258 comprising substantially cylindrical pins, cooperate with slots in each cell 236 to connect neighboring cells 236 .
- a variety of components are easily secured upon and within the cells 236 in the same manner described above with reference to the cell 200 .
- the present modular furniture system permits virtually unlimited flexibility in efficiently and economically designing office space.
- the uniquely designed cells 200 , 236 maximize storage capacity and eliminate traditional dividers, such as panels, while providing space for concealing wiring.
- the furniture thus creates a functional environment that is clean and well-organized.
- FIGS. 45 and 46 show, combinations of cells 200 , 236 including various storage components such as drawers, shelves and open spaces, create virtually limitless furniture systems.
- These systems are space efficient and permit wiring to run invisibly throughout the unit to any desired location. Computers, telephones and other modern office equipment can thus easily be connected to networks and power sources without the need to run wiring along desktops or across floors.
- the units can also be easily rearranged to provide maximum storage and efficiency for any office environment.
- Storage components such as drawers are easily inserted from both a front or a back side of each cell. Storage space is thus easy to reallocate by moving a drawer from one side to the other. For example, if a worker in a first cubicle needs more storage space than a worker in a neighboring cubicle, a drawer inserted from the neighboring side can easily be removed and inserted from the first side.
- FIG. 57 illustrates one of the end plates 102 of FIG. 1 and two of the horizontal support beams of FIG. 2 .
- the components form an L shape in front or rear elevation aspect.
- these components can be combined with additional end plates and horizontal support beams to form the cells 100 illustrated in FIGS. 4-6 .
- the components shown in FIG. 57 can be combined with identical components that are oriented in an upside down and reverse fashion to form the cells 100 illustrated in FIGS. 4-6 .
- FIG. 58 illustrates end plates 300 and a horizontal support beam 302 of another preferred embodiment of a cell 304 of the present modular furniture system.
- the end plates 300 and horizontal support beam 302 are formed from a single sheet of material, preferably a metal such as steel.
- the sheet preferably includes first and second channels 306 in an upper surface thereof.
- the end plates 300 are bent, at the dotted lines shown, with respect to the horizontal support beam to form the cell 304 shown in FIG. 59 .
- the cell 304 preferably includes posts 308 for securing the cell 304 to another vertically adjacent cell (not shown).
- FIG. 60 illustrates an end plate 300 and a horizontal support beam 302 that are formed integrally with one another, and bent to form an L-shaped part of a cell 310 .
- the partial cell 310 is easily combinable with a substantially identical partial cell to form a cell that is closed on four sides.
- the partial cell 310 includes T connectors 312 that facilitate connecting the partial cell 310 to vertically adjacent cells.
- FIGS. 61 and 62 illustrate another preferred cell 400 of the present modular furniture system.
- the cell 400 comprises first and second end plates 402 connected by first and second horizontal support beams 404 .
- the horizontal support beams 404 are formed as substantially rectangular bands. End portions 406 of the horizontal support beams 404 seat within channels 408 in the end plates 402 , as shown in FIG. 62 .
- FIG. 63 illustrates two of the cells 400 in a vertically stacked arrangement.
- FIGS. 64 and 65 illustrate another preferred cell 500 of the present modular furniture system.
- the cell 500 comprises end plates 502 that connect with a horizontal support beam 504 via T connectors 506 .
- Vertical portions 508 of the T connectors 506 engage the end plates 502
- horizontal portions 510 of the T connectors 506 engage the horizontal support beam 504 , as shown in FIG. 65 .
- the horizontal portions 510 preferably seat within channels 512 in the horizontal support beam 504 .
- the vertical portions 508 preferably seat within channels 514 in the end plates 502 .
- FIG. 66 illustrates one of the end plates 502 , two of the T connectors 506 and the horizontal support beam 504 of FIGS. 64 and 65 .
- FIG. 66 illustrates one of the end plates 502 , two of the T connectors 506 and the horizontal support beam 504 of FIGS. 64 and 65 .
Landscapes
- Life Sciences & Earth Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Wood Science & Technology (AREA)
- Combinations Of Kitchen Furniture (AREA)
- Tables And Desks Characterized By Structural Shape (AREA)
Abstract
A modular furniture system based on a fundamental building block is provided. The building block, or cell, includes first and second end plates and at least one horizontal support beam. A plurality of stacked and/or side-by-side cells provide a framework that can be arranged in an almost limitless number of ways. The cells serve as both storage space and division between neighboring work spaces, thus conserving raw materials and recovering floor space. The cells further provide raceways for concealing electrical wires and data cables, and are adapted for supporting work surfaces and connecting to vertical panels. The cells are adapted to receive various storage components, such as drawers, which may be inserted from both a front side and a back side of each cell. The cells are also adapted to receive tiles, which may cover open sides of each cell and/or cover the end plates of each cell. The tiles may provide any of a multitude of different aesthetic and functional surfaces. A single cell or stack of cells may include a foundation for increased rigidity and sturdiness.
Description
- This application claims priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/377,501, filed on May 1, 2002, the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention relates to modular furniture. Specifically, the present application discloses a furniture system comprised of a plurality of basic building blocks, or cells. The cells serve as both storage space and division between work areas. The cells are adapted to be combined and arranged to provide an almost limitless variety of furniture system arrangements. The systems provide many advantages over traditional furniture systems, including, inter alia, cost and space savings, multi-directional loading and access, the ability to receive tiles, reduction in shadows cast, compatibility with traditional panels, and the capacity to enclose various connectors such as electrical wires and telephone and data cables.
- 2. Description of the Related Art
- As shown in
FIGS. 27 and 28 , many modern office floor plans comprise open floor space that is subdivided by interconnected free-standingpanels 80. Thepanels 80 define boundaries ofvarious work areas 82. Within eachwork area 82, thepanels 80 may supportdesktop work surfaces 84 andstorage units 86, such as drawers or shelves. The drawers andshelves 86 are often attached to thepanels 80 or to thedesktop 84 either above or below the desktop work surface. Thus, thestorage units 86 project outwardly from thepanels 80, either above or below thedesktop 84. Several U.S. patents describe typical panel systems, including U.S. Pat. No. 3,425,171 to Propst et al., U.S. Pat. No. 4,325,597 to Morrison, and U.S. Pat. No. 4,567,698 to Morrison. - Office spaces are generally lit with banks of overhead lights. Thus, work area storage space that is positioned above the desktop casts downward shadows onto the desktop. The X's in
FIGS. 27 and 28 represent these shadows. Many workers must supplement the available overhead light with a desk lamp. This extra lamp occupies work area space that could be better used if the extra lamp were not necessary. The extra lamp also increases the cost of the typical panel-based furniture system. - Storage units that are positioned beneath the desktop occupy space that might otherwise be occupied by a worker's legs and feet. The worker cannot sit at the desktop directly in front of the storage units because he or she must sit back from the desktop a sufficient distance to prevent his or her knees from banging against the storage units. This necessary separation of the worker from the desktop prevents the worker from being able to comfortably use the desktop space directly above the storage units. Thus, the storage units beneath the desktop effectively cast shadows upwardly, limiting the uses for large portions of desktop space. The dotted lines in
FIGS. 27 and 28 represent these shadows. Storage units positioned beneath work surfaces also limit the heights to which those work surfaces can be adjusted. - Rather than attaching storage units to the panels or work surfaces, pedestal units and lateral files may provide storage space without attachment. A pedestal comprises a free-standing bank of drawers that is typically positioned beneath the desktop. Thus, pedestals create the same problems described above by casting shadows upwardly and limiting vertical adjustment of the work surface. A lateral file similarly comprises a free-standing bank of drawers. Lateral files may be of similar height to typical pedestals, or may be taller. Lateral files are typically positioned in front of panels and next to or spaced from the desktop.
- Because lateral files are positioned in front of panels, they do not use available floor space efficiently. One or more surfaces of the lateral file (such as the rear surface and one side surface) abut surfaces of the panels. These “redundant surfaces” are always hidden from view. If the panel were not necessary to divide the adjacent work areas, the lateral file could be pushed outward relative to its respective work area. This expansion would recover lost floor space and eliminate some redundant surfaces.
- To eliminate the problems discussed above, preferably storage units can also be used to divide adjacent work areas. Such a configuration eliminates redundant surfaces and recovers floor space. U.S. Pat. No. 5,039,177 to Newell et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 5,328,260 to Beirise both discuss the concept of “storage as division.” Newell et al. disclose a cabinet structure having vertically extending corner recesses. Each recess is adapted to receive an elongate corner trim element. The corner trim element has a rounded convex configuration on one side thereof, and a generally square corner configuration on the other side thereof. The corner trim element can be positioned in any of the recesses in two different orientations, such that either the rounded or the square corner configuration is exposed. When the square corner configuration is exposed, the corner trim element provides a vertically elongate groove. The groove accommodates one-half of a connecting element, such as a vertical hinge element, for permitting the corner of the cabinet to be secured to another furniture component, such as another cabinet or an upright wall panel.
- Beirise discloses an office furniture module. The module comprises a body portion having a removable top portion and a removable bottom member. A space between the top portion and an upper surface of the body portion defines an upper horizontally extending passageway. A space between the bottom member and a lower end of the body portion defines a lower horizontally extending passageway. Removable upper and lower insert panels cover openings in the body portion. When the furniture module is placed next to other identical furniture modules, the modules include upper and lower horizontally extending passageways therethrough.
- The cabinet of Newell et al. and the furniture system of Beirise use storage space as division between adjacent work areas. However, neither of these patents discloses a furniture system having broad versatility, enabling the construction of a wide variety of work areas to suit the needs of any application. For example, Newell et al. discloses only apparatus for connecting a file cabinet to a panel. This interconnection enables the elimination of some panels, but does not provide any other substantial benefit.
- Beirise discloses a module that can be combined with other modules to form work areas, but the range of applications for the module are limited. For example, the module has a closed back side. Therefore, to create adjacent work areas that are divided by the module, two modules must be positioned back-to-back, as shown in
FIG. 1 of Beirise, in order to provide storage space to both work areas. When the modules are positioned back-to-back, they occupy more floor space than they save by eliminating panels, and they create redundant surfaces. - The descriptions above highlight the limitations of prior furniture systems. A furniture system that overcomes these limitations would be of great benefit to environments that use modular furniture. The furniture system would preferably comprise a versatile base unit that creates cost and space savings, provides multi-directional loading and access, possesses the ability to receive tiles, reduces shadows, is compatible with traditional panels, and provides the capacity to enclose various connectors such as electrical wires and telephone and data cables.
- The preferred embodiments of the present modular furniture system have several features, no single one of which is solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this modular furniture system as expressed by the claims that follow, its more prominent features will now be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled “Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments,” one will understand how the features of the preferred embodiments provide advantages, which include providing a versatile base unit that serves as both storage space and division between neighboring work spaces, thus conserving raw materials and recovering floor space, provides multidirectional loading and access, possesses the ability to receive tiles, reduces shadows, is compatible with traditional panels, provides the capacity to enclose various connectors such as electrical wires and telephone and data cables, and is adapted to support work surfaces and dividing panels.
- A preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell that is adapted to be combined with other similar cells to form a furniture system. The cell comprises first and second spaced end plates, and at least one horizontal support beam. The cell is adapted to receive a storage component from both a first side and a second side opposite the first side.
- Another preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell that is adapted to be combined with other similar cells to form a furniture system. The cell comprises first and second spaced end plates, and at least one horizontal support beam. The at least one horizontal support beam comprises a crossbar with posts disposed at either end thereof. The posts are substantially parallel to one another and also substantially perpendicular to the crossbar.
- Another preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell defining a storage space therein. The storage space is at least partially bounded by first and second spaced end plates and at least one horizontal support beam. The modular furniture system further comprises a tile that is securable between the end plates to thereby define a further boundary of the cell.
- Another preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell defining a storage space therein. The storage space is at least partially bounded by first and second spaced end plates and at least one horizontal support beam. The modular furniture system further comprises a tile that is securable to either of the end plates to thereby at least partially cover the end plate.
- The preferred embodiments of the modular furniture system, illustrating its features, will now be discussed in detail. These embodiments depict the novel and non-obvious modular furniture system shown in the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only. These drawings include the following figures, in which like numerals indicate like parts:
-
FIG. 1 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an end plate of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 2 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 3 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 4 is an exploded front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, comprising two of the end plates ofFIG. 1 and two of the horizontal support beams ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 5 an assembled front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 4 ; -
FIG. 6 is a front left-side perspective view of two of the cells ofFIG. 5 , illustrating a vertical stacking arrangement of the cells; -
FIG. 7 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a foundation of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 8 is a partially exploded front left-side perspective view of the foundation ofFIG. 7 , and two foundation supports; -
FIG. 9 is a partially exploded front left-side perspective view of two of the foundations ofFIG. 7 , and two foundation supports, illustrating a horizontally adjacent arrangement of the foundations; -
FIG. 10 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of the components ofFIG. 9 ; -
FIG. 11 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a bridge for connecting horizontally adjacent cells; -
FIG. 12 is a front left-side perspective view of four of the cells ofFIG. 5 , illustrating a vertical stacking arrangement of the cells upon the foundation ofFIG. 7 , and illustrating, in exploded fashion, possible positions for the bridges ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 13 is a front left-side perspective view of the components ofFIG. 12 , illustrating the bridges connected to the cells; -
FIG. 14 is a top plan view of two of the cells ofFIG. 5 , illustrating the cells connected by two of the bridges ofFIG. 11 ; -
FIG. 15 is a front left-side perspective view of three of the cells ofFIG. 5 , illustrating a vertical stacking arrangement of the cells upon the foundation ofFIG. 7 , and illustrating, in exploded fashion, possible positions for additional slotted posts; -
FIG. 16 is a front left-side perspective view of the components ofFIG. 15 , illustrating the posts connected to the cells, and illustrating, in exploded fashion, possible positions for support brackets; -
FIG. 17 is a front left-side perspective view of the components ofFIG. 16 , illustrating the support brackets connected to the cells; -
FIG. 18 is a front left-side perspective view of the components ofFIG. 17 , illustrating a desktop supported atop the support brackets; -
FIG. 19 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side columns of vertically stacked cells ofFIG. 5 , illustrating the ability of the stacks to provide storage space to work areas on either side of the stacks; -
FIG. 20 is a front left-side perspective view of two stacked cells ofFIG. 5 atop the foundation ofFIG. 7 , further illustrating a raceway extending across the upper cell; -
FIG. 21 is a front left-side perspective view of the components ofFIG. 20 , further illustrating a drawer received within the upper cell; -
FIG. 22 is a front left-side perspective view of the components ofFIG. 21 , wherein the raceway is positioned between the two cells; -
FIG. 23 is a left-side cross-sectional view of the components ofFIG. 21 , taken along the line 23-23; -
FIG. 24 is a left-side cross-sectional view of the components ofFIG. 22 , taken along the line 24-24; -
FIG. 25 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side finished cell stacks, illustrating the ability of the individual cells in the stacks to receive a variety of different storage components; -
FIG. 26 is a front left-side perspective view of a finished work area incorporating the cells ofFIG. 5 , and illustrating the versatility of the cells; -
FIGS. 27 and 28 are top plan views of arrangements of prior art panel-type furniture systems; -
FIGS. 29 and 30 are top plan views of sample arrangements of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 31 is a front left-side perspective view of four horizontally adjacent stacks of the cells ofFIG. 5 , illustrating the capacity of the cells to internally accommodate electrical wiring and data cabling, -
FIG. 32 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 33 is a left-side elevational view of the cell ofFIG. 32 ; -
FIG. 34 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , including another preferred embodiment of a foundation; -
FIG. 35 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side columns of vertically stacked cells ofFIG. 32 ; -
FIG. 36 is a left-side elevational view of the cell stacks ofFIG. 35 ; -
FIG. 37 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a hanging file drawer and a tile; -
FIG. 38 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a shelf and a tile; -
FIG. 39 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive cabinet-style doors and a tile; -
FIG. 40 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a closed drawer and a tile; -
FIG. 41 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a closed drawer and a tile, with the drawer being inserted from a side opposite that shown inFIG. 40 and the tile being attached to a side opposite that shown inFIG. 40 ; -
FIG. 42 is a front left-side perspective view of a column of vertically stacked cells ofFIG. 32 , illustrating trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating horizontal raceways; -
FIG. 43 is a front left-side perspective view of the cage ofFIG. 32 , illustrating a drawer received within the cell and a tray atop the cell, the tray creating a horizontal raceway; -
FIG. 44 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side columns of vertically stacked cells ofFIG. 32 , illustrating trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating horizontal raceways, wires passing through the horizontal and vertical raceways, and electrical outlets; -
FIG. 45 is a front left-side perspective view of a possible arrangement of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 46 is a front right-side perspective view of the arrangement ofFIG. 45 ; -
FIG. 47 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive tiles; -
FIG. 48 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a roll-up covering and a tile; -
FIG. 49 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 ; -
FIG. 50 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , illustrating a tray atop the cell, the tray creating a raceway, -
FIG. 51 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 32 , illustrating a drawer received within the cell, and a tray below the cell, the tray creating a raceway, -
FIG. 52 is a front left-side perspective view of two vertically stacked cells ofFIG. 32 , illustrating drawers received within the cells from the back side thereof, trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating a raceway, tiles received on front faces of the cells, and electrical outlets on the front faces of the cells; -
FIG. 53 is a front left-side perspective view of two columns of vertically stacked cells ofFIG. 32 , illustrating drawers received within the cells from the back side thereof, trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating a raceway, tiles received on front faces of the cells, and electrical outlets on the front faces of the cells between the two stacks; -
FIG. 54 is a partially exploded front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, and another preferred embodiment of a foundation; -
FIG. 55 is a front left-side perspective view of a column of vertically stacked cells ofFIG. 54 and the foundation ofFIG. 54 ; -
FIG. 56 is a partially exploded perspective view of the cell stack ofFIG. 55 ; -
FIG. 57 is a front left-side perspective view of the end plate ofFIG. 1 and two of the horizontal support beams ofFIG. 2 ; -
FIG. 58 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of end plates and a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 59 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, including the end plates and horizontal support beam ofFIG. 58 ; -
FIG. 60 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of an end plate a a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system, including T connectors; -
FIG. 61 is an exploded front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of end plates and horizontal support beams of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 62 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, the cell comprising the components ofFIG. 61 ; -
FIG. 63 is a front left-side perspective view of two vertically stacked cells ofFIG. 62 ; -
FIG. 64 is an exploded front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system; -
FIG. 65 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of the cell ofFIG. 64 ; and -
FIG. 66 is a front left-side perspective view of one of the end plates, two of the T connectors and the horizontal support beam ofFIG. 64 . - The present modular furniture system is particularly well adapted for use in office environments. The description below focuses on the use of the furniture system in an office environment. However, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the present modular furniture system is also adapted for use in other environments, such as homes, manufacturing and assembly facilities, etc.
- The present modular furniture system provides a basic building block, or cell, that can be combined with other building blocks to construct work spaces. The groupings of building blocks can be arranged in an almost limitless number of ways. The groupings serve as both storage space and division between neighboring work spaces, thus conserving raw materials, recovering floor space and reducing shadows. The cells provide multi-directional loading and access, and are well suited for receiving tiles. The groupings also provide raceways for concealing electrical wires and telephone and data cables, and are adapted for supporting horizontal work surfaces and vertical panels.
- The
cell 100 pictured inFIGS. 4 and 5 comprises one preferred embodiment of the basic building block of the present modular furniture system. Eachcell 100 preferably comprises first andsecond end plates 102 connected to one another by at least onehorizontal support beam 104. As used herein, the word beam encompasses any horizontal cross member reaching between two end plates, regardless of the shape, size, length, thickness, width, etc. of such beam. Preferably, eachcell 100 includes first and second upper support beams 104, and first and second lower support beams 104. As pictured inFIGS. 6 and 7 , however, verticallycontiguous cells 100 preferably share common support beams 104. A givensupport beam 104 may act as anupper support beam 104 for acell 100 beneath it, and as alower support beam 104 for acell 100 above it. -
FIG. 1 presents a detailed view of a preferred embodiment of theend plates 102. In the illustrated embodiment, eachend plate 102 is substantially flat and rectangular. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that theend plates 102 could have virtually any perimeter shape, such as triangular, hexagonal, round, etc. Portions of the perimeter of eachend plate 102 preferably include scores orperforations 106. The scores orperforations 106 defineremovable tabs 108. Theremovable tabs 108 provide clearance forraceways 166 that house electrical wiring and/or data cables, as described below. - The
illustrated end plate 102 includes surface features that help to increase the rigidity of theend plate 102. For example, afirst surface 110 of theillustrated end plate 102 includes two spacedchannels 112. A second surface of theend plate 102, opposite thefirst surface 110, includes raised ridges opposite the channels. Eachchannel 112 runs in a substantially vertical direction from anupper edge 114 of theplate 102 to alower edge 116 thereof. Eachchannel 112 contains a plurality of vertically spaced through-holes 118. The throughholes 118 are adapted to receive fastening members (not shown), such as screws or bolts, that secure theend plates 102 to the horizontal support beams 104, as described below. - Side edges 120 of the
end plates 102 are preferably bent approximately ninety degrees out of the plane of theplate 102 toward the second surface of theplate 102. Thesebent edges 120 further increase the rigidity of theend plates 102. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that, although these surface features increase the rigidity of theend plates 102, which increases the overall sturdiness of the present modular furniture system, none of these surface features is necessary to achieve the advantages of the system. Those of skill in the art will further appreciate that theend plates 102 could include additional surface features to further increase the rigidity of theend plates 102. For example, eachend plate 102 could include additional vertical channels, located either between the two spacedchannels 112 described above or outside thesechannels 112. Theend plates 102 could also include generally horizontal channels. -
FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate preferred embodiments of thehorizontal support beam 104. Thebeam 104 comprises an elongate, horizontally orientedcross bar 122. Preferably, thecross bar 122 is tubular in order to reduce the raw material costs of manufacturing the beam. The illustratedcross bar 122 has a cross-section that is generally rectangular with rounded corners. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that thecross bar 122 could have virtually any cross-section, including hexagonal or round. Opposite ends of thecross bar 122 include generallyvertical posts 124. Thebeam 104 ofFIG. 2 is adapted to reside between verticallyadjacent cells 100, as illustrated inFIG. 6 . Therefore, eachpost 124 extends both upward and downward from thecross bar 122. Thebeam 102 ofFIG. 3 is adapted to reside above anuppermost cell 100, as illustrated inFIGS. 12 and 13 . Therefore, eachpost 124 extends only downward from thecross bar 122. - A cross-section of each
post 124 is generally C-shaped. This cross-section provides high bending strength without requiring a large amount of material. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that theposts 124 could have virtually any cross-section, including a figure-eight with one open side, or substantially rectangular. Front and rear edges of theposts 124 preferably include vertically spacedslots 126. Theslots 126 provide mounting points for work surfaces, shelves and other structures, as described below. Inside edges of eachpost 124 include vertically spaced throughholes 128 that align with the throughholes 118 in theend plates 102, as shown inFIG. 5 . Fastening members (not shown), such as screws or bolts, extend through the throughholes 118 in theend plates 102 and the throughholes 128 in theposts 124 to releasably secure the two together. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that theposts 124 could be secured to theend plates 102 using other fastening members besides screws or bolts. These components could also be secured to each other without fastening members, such as by using an adhesive, or a tab and slot arrangement, for example. - The
end plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 are preferably constructed of metal. A preferred metal is mild steel. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that theend plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 could be constructed from non-metal materials, such as plastics or composites. Those of skill in the art will also appreciate that theend plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 could have any dimensions to suit any application. However, to reduce manufacturing costs, theend plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 can also be manufactured in standard sizes. Consumers can then pick and choose from the available standard sizes in order to construct their own furniture system. Preferred dimensions for the standard-sized end plates 102 include (expressed as height×width): 14″×17″, 21″×17″, 28″×17″, 35″×17″ and 42″×17″. The preferred width of 17″ of for eachend plate 102 results in an approximate depth of 18″ for eachcell 100 when tiles and storage components are added to thecell 100, as described below. Preferred lengths for the standard-sized horizontal support beams 104 include: 18″, 24″, 30″, 36″, 42″ and 48″. - The
cells 100 are adapted to be stacked on top of one another and arranged side-by-side, as shown inFIGS. 6, 12 , 15 and 16, for example. In these Figures, each of thecells 100 has substantially the same height as theother cells 100. However, vertically stackedcells 100 could have varying heights. Verticallyadjacent cells 100 share a commonhorizontal support beam 104. The upwardly extending portions of the end posts 124 are secured to theupper cell 100, and the downwardly extending portions of the end posts 124 are secured to thelower cell 100. Eachcell 100 in the lowermost layer ofcells 100 rests atop afoundation 130, which is illustrated inFIG. 7 . - Each
foundation 130 preferably comprises a pair of spaced parallel end bars 132 that extend front-to-back. A pair of spaced parallel cross bars 134 extend side-to-side and connect the end bars 132. A cross-section of the illustrated end bars 132 resembles a corrugated pattern. Aridge 136 with a flat top extends along the length of eachend bar 132. A cross-section of the illustrated cross bars 134 is substantially rectangular. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that thebars - Ends of the cross bars 134 preferably seat within
channels 138 on the inside edges of the end bars 132.Flanges 140 extend upwardly from the end bars 132. Oneflange 140 is preferably positioned adjacent the end of eachcross bar 134. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that theflanges 140 could be positioned differently, and that fewer ormore flanges 140 could be provided. Lower ends of eachend plate 102 seat between theridge 136 of one of the end bars 132 and therespective flanges 140. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 8-10 , foundation supports 142, such as, for example, glides or wheels, are preferably releasably securable to thefoundations 130. Preferably, each corner of eachfoundation 130 includes afoundation support 142. However,adjacent foundations 130 preferably share foundation supports 142, as shown inFIGS. 9 and 10 , to keep the raw material cost of the present furniture system as low as possible. The foundation supports 142 preferably provide clearance between thefoundation 130 and the floor upon which thecells 100 sit. This clearance provides a raceway for housing electrical wiring or telephone/data cabling. Thus, wiring and cabling can be conveniently channeled through groups ofcells 100 to provide power and data hookups to individual work areas, while the wiring and cabling remains hidden from view. - With reference to
FIG. 8 , eachfoundation support 142 preferably comprises ahorizontal bar 144 that passes through one of theflanges 140, through thecorresponding end bar 132, and extends into an end of one of the cross bars 134. A substantially cylindricalvertical post 146 extends through an end of thehorizontal bar 144 opposite thecross bar 134. A substantially disk-shapedglide 148 is secured to a lower end of thepost 146. A flat lower surface of eachglide 148 opposite thepost 146 rests on the floor. Eachglide 148 is preferably constructed of a low-friction material such that it slides relatively easily over the floor. Theglides 148 thus facilitate sliding thelowermost cell 100, and anycells 100 stacked on top of thelowermost cell 100, across the floor. - The
post 146 is preferably threaded, and preferably engages thehorizontal bar 144 such that a distance between thehorizontal bar 144 and theglide 148 is variable. Theglides 148 thus enable thecells 100 to be level, even if thecells 100 are sitting on an uneven surface. By varying the distance between thehorizontal bar 144 and theglide 148, theglides 148 can compensate for depressions, bumps or slants in the floor. - Although not illustrated, the
glides 148 could be replaced by wheels, which would further enhance the mobility of thecells 100. Alternatively, theglides 148 could be constructed of a high-friction material, or covered on their lower surfaces with a high-friction material.Such glides 148 would lessen the mobility of thecells 100, which may be desirable to prevent thecells 100 from shifting unexpectedly. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that neither theglides 148 nor the wheels nor any similar components are necessary to achieve the advantages of the present modular furniture system. For example, thefoundations 130 could rest directly on the floor. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 14 and 19 , thecells 100 are adapted to be arranged horizontally adjacent one another. Horizontallyadjacent cells 100 may be connected to one another, or may simply rest on the floor next to one another, without being physically connected. When horizontallyadjacent cells 100 are connected to one another, the assembly is advantageously more sturdy than a collection ofunconnected cells 100. Theconnected cells 100 offer support to theadjacent cells 100, reducing the potential of any one stack ofcells 100 to tip over. -
FIG. 11 illustrates a preferred connecting member, orbridge 150. Thebridges 150 reside betweenadjacent cells 100, as shown inFIGS. 12-14 , such that the opposite ends of eachbridge 150 abut theend plates 102 ofadjacent cells 100. Eachbridge 150 is shaped as a substantially C-shaped shallow channel. Downward opening hooks 152 extend from theside walls 154 of the channel in a direction opposite thebase 156 of the channel. In the illustrated embodiment, threehooks 152 extend from eachside wall 154. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that fewer ormore hooks 152 could be provided. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 12 and 13 , thehooks 152 on one side of eachbridge 150 engage the vertically spacedslots 126 on one of theposts 124 of aparticular cell 100. Thehooks 152 on the opposite side of eachbridge 150 engage the vertically spacedslots 126 on one of theposts 124 of anadjacent cell 100. A width of eachbridge 150 determines the spacing between the adjacent stacks ofcells 100, as shown inFIG. 14 . Those of skill in the art will appreciate that thebridges 150 could have any width as desired to provide the desired spacing. In fact, thebridges 150 could be so narrow thatadjacent cells 100 actually contact one another. Preferably, at least fourbridges 150 connect adjacent cell stacks. However, fewer ormore bridges 150 could be provided to suit particular applications. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that horizontallyadjacent cells 100 can be connected to one another without the use of a separate component like thebridge 150. For example, hooks (not shown) on onecell 100 could engage slots (not shown) on theadjacent cell 100 to connect thecells 100. - Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the
bridges 150 could embody a variety of other shapes. For example, eachbridge 150 could be shaped as a substantially rectangular box with two oppositely facing concave side walls. End walls of eachrectangular bridge 150 would preferably include apertures for receiving connecting members, such as bolts or screws. The apertures in the end walls would align with the apertures in theend plates 102. The connecting members would cooperate with the end plate apertures and the bridge apertures to secure thebridges 150 to theend plates 102, thereby securing theadjacent cells 100 to one another. - As described above, front and rear edges of the
posts 124 preferably include vertically spacedslots 126. Additional slottedvertical members 158 may fill the gaps between verticallyadjacent posts 124, as illustrated inFIGS. 15 and 16 . The vertically spacedslots 126 are adapted to receive not only thehooks 152 on thebridges 150, but also vertically spacedhooks 152 that project from mountingbrackets 160, as illustrated inFIGS. 16 and 17 . The illustrated mountingbrackets 160 are substantially triangular, and include a plurality of vertically spacedhooks 152 projecting from a rear edge thereof. - The upper edges of the
brackets 160 provide support for various surfaces, such as desktops, shelves, etc. The upper edge of each bracket may include a protrudingtab 162 defining a substantially horizontal plane. Thetab 162 provides a fastening surface for securing thebracket 160 to the surface that it supports. For example, a screw may cooperate with an aperture in thetab 162 and penetrate the supported surface to secure the surface to thebracket 160.FIG. 18 illustrates adesktop 164 supported at one end by a pair ofbrackets 160. (Only one of thebrackets 160 is visible inFIG. 18 ). -
FIGS. 20-24 illustrate stacks ofcells 100 havingraceways 166. Theraceway 166 comprises empty space that passes through thecells 100. Theraceways 166 may be bounded on one or more sides bytrays 168. Thetrays 168 form channels that extend acrosscells 100 from oneend plate 102 to theopposite end plate 102. Onetray 168 may be provided to form an open channel, as shown inFIGS. 20, 21 and 23. Alternatively, twotrays 168 that face each other may be provided to form a closed channel, as shown inFIGS. 22 and 24 . Theraceways 166 may extend across the top of anuppermost cell 100, as shown inFIGS. 20, 21 and 23, or theraceways 166 may extend between verticallyadjacent cells 100, as shown inFIGS. 22 and 24 . - The
raceways 166 may provide paths for electrical wiring and/or data cables. Thetrays 168 provide support to the wiring and cables so that they don't sag and interfere with other components within eachcell 100. However, the wiring and cables could instead be supported by their own tension. For example, a tension inducing device, such as a clip, could grip the wiring and cables, pulling them taut. Theraceways 166 may also serve as air ducts for heating and cooling systems, or house pipes that carry water, gas, etc. - To form the
raceways 166, a technician removes tabs 108 (FIG. 20 ) from theend panels 102. The technician may, but need not, inserttrays 168 into the spaces formed by the removedtabs 108. The spaces occupied by thetabs 108 at the center of the upper andlower edges end plates 102 provide clearance forraceways 166 that run along the center of eachcell 100 as measured in a front-to-back direction. The spaces occupied by thetabs 108 at the corners of theend plates 102 provide clearance forraceways 166 that run along the front and/or rear faces of eachcell 100. -
FIG. 31 illustrateswiring 170 and data cabling 172 extending through adjacent stacks ofcells 100. For clarity, thetrays 168 that may form theraceways 166 have been omitted fromFIG. 31 . Thewires 170 anddata cables 172 extend horizontally through theraceways 166 and upward or downward through gaps between adjacent cell stacks. For example,data cables 172 may extend upward from afloor conduit 174, through a vertical passageway between two adjacent stacks, then horizontally through the stacks to deliver data to neighboring work areas. - The
cells 100 are adapted to receive storage components, such asdrawers 176, cabinet-style doors 178,shelves 180 and other similar components, as shown in FIGS. 19, 21-24, 25 and 26. Thecells 100 are also adapted to receive a variety of other components that are not illustrated. A non-exhaustive list of such components includes the following: an accessory panel within thecell 100 that is accessible from both sides of thecell 100, work surfaces that can either hang out of thecell 100 or roll out of thecell 100, electronic equipment such as rack mounted equipment, a roll-out shelf mounted on drawer slides, accessory panels, lighting fixtures, computer equipment, office electronics (such as faxes, printers and monitors), air ducts and registers, heating elements, refrigeration units, coolers, kitchen equipment (such as microwaves), stereo equipment (such as receivers, speakers and equalizers), video electronics (such as VCR's and DVD players), sinks, cages, seat cushions (so that a lower cell can act as a bench), air filtration equipment, wireless transmitters and antennas for wireless office networking. These components fill the spaces withincells 100 and/or cover the open sides of thecells 100. Thecells 100 collectively form wall-like structures that can be used to divide neighboring work areas, as shown inFIGS. 26, 29 and 30. AsFIGS. 21-24 illustrate thedrawers 176 are capable of being mounted within thecells 100 such that thedrawers 176 do not interfere with theraceways 166. - The
cells 100 are adapted to receive tiles 182 (FIGS. 19 and 21 -26). The illustratedtiles 182 are substantially flat and rectangular, and may be secured to the inside or outside of thecells 100. Asingle tile 182 may cover more than onecell 100. Thetiles 182 may have any of a variety of outer surfaces, and may be designed to perform a wide variety of different functions. For example, the tiles can be covered with a painted surface, a fabric surface, or a vinyl surface. The tiles can provide, for example, desired acoustics, windows, lighting, tackable surfaces, marker receiving surfaces, data display surfaces, displays, wire management, heating/cooling and air circulation. - The
tiles 182 can stretch from onecell end plate 102 to another, covering the front and/or rear openings of thecell 100. Thetiles 182 can also cover the exposed surfaces of theend plates 182. Each of these tile orientations is shown inFIG. 25 .FIGS. 1, 4 and 5 illustrate a preferred manner of securing thetiles 182 to thecells 100. Preferably, each end plate includes a plurality ofapertures 190. Theillustrated end plates 102 include fourapertures 190, with one aperture being located near each corner of theend plate 102. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that theend plates 102 could include more orfewer apertures 190. - The
apertures 190 are adapted to receive tabs or hooks or other similar attachment structures (not shown) that protrude from thetiles 182. For simplicity, the attachment of atile 182 to acell 100 will be described with reference to tabs. However, those of skill in the art will appreciate that, as used herein, tab includes any attachment structure that is adapted to engage one of theapertures 190. Such attachment structure could include, for example, clips, snaps, pins and teeth. Those of skill in the art will also appreciate that the arrangement of the tabs and apertures could be reversed, i.e. the tabs could be on theend plates 102 and theapertures 190 on thetiles 182. - A
tile 182 that is designed to cover the front and/or rear opening of acell 100 preferably includes four tabs protruding from opposite ends thereof with two tabs protruding from each end. The tabs, which may be spring loaded for ease of installation, project through theapertures 190 in opposingend plates 102, thus locking thetile 182 between theend plates 102. As shown inFIGS. 19, 23 and 24, thetiles 182 may be used to cover the back side of acell 100 where adrawer 176 or other storage component has been inserted from a front side of thatcell 100. Thetile 182 may present any of the aesthetic or functional surfaces described above. - A
tile 182 that is designed to cover an exposed surface of anend plate 182 preferably includes four tabs protruding from an inside surface thereof. The tabs project through theapertures 190 in asingle end plate 102. As shown inFIG. 25 , thetile 182 provides a cover for the end of acell 100 orcell stack 184. Thetile 182 may present any of the aesthetic or functional surfaces described above. Also as shown inFIG. 25 , eachcell 100 orcell stack 184 may be covered with atop cap 192. Thetop cap 192 is securable to thecell stack 184 using conventional methods, such as tabs and slots, and provides any of the aesthetic or functional surfaces described above with respect to thetiles 182. Preferably, thetop cap 192 provides some clearance between an underside of thetop cap 192 and the top of thecell 100 upon which thetop cap 192 sits. This clearance forms a raceway for housing electrical wiring and telephone/data cabling. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 26, 29 and 30, corners of eachcell stack 184 are adapted to receive ends ofpanels 186. Thesepanels 186 may be traditional style panels that are commonly used in current furniture systems. Thus, the present cell-based furniture system is advantageously compatible with some current furniture systems. Thepanels 186 may be opaque, transparent or translucent, and may be designed to provide a pleasing appearance and/or to muffle sound. - The ends of the
panels 186 may include hooks (not shown), so that the hooks engage the vertically spacedslots 126 in theposts 124. Alternatively, thepanels 186 may be connected to thecells 100 by other conventional means, such as by using screws or bolts. Thepanels 186, together with thestacks 184, define boundaries of each work area. Because the cell stacks 184 do not sit in front of thepanels 186, as storage units do in traditional panel systems, thestacks 184 eliminate redundant surfaces and recover floor space. Each work area includes an abundance of storage space in thestacks 184, and alarge work surface 188. Because all storage space is located in thestacks 184, no storage units are located above or below thework surface 188. Thus, the storage space does not cast shadows downward or upward within the work area. - Advantageously, the
cell 100 is relatively small when compared to the overall size of a typical work area. Further, thecells 100 can be manufactured in different sizes, as explained above. Thus,many cells 100 can be combined in a wide variety of different ways sizes. For example,FIG. 19 illustrates two adjacent stacks of fourcells 100 each. These stacks are integrated into the work area illustrated inFIG. 26 . If desired, each stack could include fewer or more than four rows ofcells 100 to provide a convenient height for the stacks, and to provide adequate storage space for a given work area. - The height, width and/or depth of each
cell 100 can also be varied to tailor the stacks to achieve work space goals. For example, in the stacks shown inFIG. 19 , the twolower cells 100 and theuppermost cell 100 are all of substantially the same height. However, thecell 100 that is next to the top is substantially taller than the rest. Preferably, horizontallyadjacent cells 100 are of equal height to avoid interruptions in theraceways 166. Also, everycell 100 in a given stack is preferably of equal width so that theposts 124 at the end of the horizontal support beams 104 align with theend plates 102 of verticallyadjacent cells 100. - Advantageously, storage components such as
drawers 176, cabinet-style doors 178,shelves 180, roll-up coverings can be inserted into thecells 100 from either side. For example,FIGS. 19 and 25 illustrate two adjacent stacks ofcells 100. Thedrawers 176 are inserted from a front side of the left-hand stack ofcells 100, and thedoor 178 is secured to the front side of the uppermost cell in that same stack. By contrast, thedrawers 176 are inserted from a back side of the right-hand stack ofcells 100, and thedoor 178 is secured to the back side of the uppermost cell in that same stack. InFIGS. 29 and 30 , the arrows pointing away from the cell stacks 184 indicate the direction in which the storage components in that cell stack open. - Those of skill in the art will appreciate that
drawers 176 and other storage components can be inserted from both a front side and a back side of a single stack ofcells 100. For example, alower cell 100 may have adrawer 176 inserted from a front side, while acell 100 stacked on top of thatcell 100 may have a drawer inserted from a back side. This versatility enables a single cell stack to serve as storage space for two adjacent work areas. -
FIGS. 32 and 33 illustrate another preferred embodiment of thecell 200 of the present modular furniture system. Thecell 200 comprises first andsecond end plates 202, which are preferably substantially rectangular. Each corner of thefirst end plate 202 is joined to a corresponding corner of thesecond end plate 202 by abar 204, thus forming a substantiallyrectangular cell 200. Thecell 200 is preferably manufactured out of metal, but can be made of any rigid material. A preferred metal is steel. In addition, the dimensions of thecell 200 can vary depending on the needs of particular office personnel. - Preferably, a plurality of
cells 200 are stacked vertically and/or side-by-side, as illustrated inFIGS. 35 and 36 , to create storage space and/or walls. For example,FIGS. 45 and 46 illustrate finished cell stacks arranged to createdividers 264 between adjacent work areas. Thedividers 264 advantageously also serve as storage space. AsFIGS. 35 and 36 illustrate,stacked cells 200 need not have the same dimensions as one another. For example, ataller cell 206 may be stacked together with ashorter cell 208. - Preferably, a
cell 200 that rests directly on the floor includes an attachedfoundation 209, which is illustrated inFIG. 34 . Thefoundation 209 comprises an elongatelongitudinal bar 211 with across bar 213 attached at either end. The cross bars 213 are parallel to and secured to the first andsecond end plates 202. Thelongitudinal bar 211 is parallel to a longitudinal axis of thecell 200 and passes underneath a center of thecell 200 from thefirst end plate 202 to thesecond end plate 202. Thefoundation 209 increases the stiffness and sturdiness of thecell 200 or stack ofcells 200, thereby reducing the likelihood that a stack might topple over and injure someone. - A
lower surface 215 of eachend 217 of eachcross bar 211 preferably includes aglide 219. Eachglide 219 comprises a substantially disk-shapedrunner 221 having a substantiallycylindrical post 223 attached to a flat face. Thepost 223, which may be threaded, preferably penetrates thelower surface 215 of thecross bar 211 such that a flat surface of therunner 221 opposite thepost 223 rests fiat on the floor. Therunner 221 is preferably constructed of a low-friction material such that it slides relatively easily over the floor. Theglides 219 thus facilitate moving the stack across the floor. Further, because theposts 223 preferably by threads engage the cross bars 211, theglides 219 enable the stack to be level, even if the stack is sitting on an uneven surface. By varying the length that one ormore posts 223 extends from thecross bar 211, theglides 219 can compensate for depressions, bumps or slants in the floor. - Each
cell 200 is adapted to function as a support structure for a variety of different components. For example, acell 200 may house a hanging file drawer 210 (FIG. 37 ), shelving 212 (FIG. 38 ), a single storage unit with doors 214 (FIG. 39 ), a closed drawer 216 (FIG. 40 ), a roll-up covering 218 (FIG. 48 ), open space or other storage configurations. - Advantageously, each of these components may be inserted from either side of the
cell 200. For example, the hangingfile drawer 210 shown inFIG. 37 is inserted from a first side, while the hangingfile drawer 210 shown inFIG. 41 is inserted from a second side opposite the first side.Drawers 210 can also be inserted simultaneously from both sides of asingle cell 200. AsFIGS. 37-41 , 47, 48, 52 and 53 illustrate, the sides of thecell 200 other than the side from which the storage component is inserted may be covered with atile 220. Thetile 220 may be manufactured from metal, wood or fabric, for example, or any combination of these materials. Thetile 220 may merely provide a pleasing outward appearance for thecell 200, or may also be a useful surface, as described above. - Advantageously, opposite edges of
end plates 202 of eachcell 200 includeindentations 222 as shown inFIG. 49 . In the illustrated embodiment, the upper and lower edges of theend plates 202 includeindentations 222. However, those of skill in the art will appreciate that front and rear edges of eachend plate 202 could also includeindentations 222. Theindentations 222 provide clearance forelongate trays 224 to be inserted betweenadjacent cells 200, as shown inFIGS. 42-44 and 50-53, or along outer sides ofoutermost cells 200, as shown inFIGS. 43, 50 and 51. Thetrays 224 are substantially U-shaped in cross-section and createraceways 226 along the sides of thecells 200. - As shown in
FIG. 42 , araceway 226 may be comprised of a portion of twoadjacent trays 224, each positioned such that the open portions of the “U” of each tray face each other. Alternatively, if not as much raceway space is necessary, atray 224 may run through only onecell 200, providing additional storage space in theadjacent cell 200. Theraceways 224 provide convenient paths forwires 228 to run horizontally along thecells 200 as shown inFIG. 44 . Thewires 228 may be electrical wires, telephone and data wires, coaxial cables or any other type of conduit that is associated with modern office equipment. Thetrays 224 desirably have openings 230 (FIGS. 42-44 and 50) along their length to permitoutlets 232 and other connections such as telephone jacks to be conveniently positioned for office personnel, as shown inFIGS. 44, 52 and 53. - As shown in
FIG. 49 ,bosses 234 preferably extend outwardly from the ends of thecells 200. Forcells 200 that are arranged side-by-side, as shown inFIG. 44 , the bosses of thecells 200 abut and create vertical raceways between theadjacent cells 200. Alternatively, forcells 200 that have one or both of their ends covered by aflat tile 220, as thecell 200 inFIG. 47 , thebosses 234 create vertical raceways adjacent the ends of thecells 200 behind thepanels 220. The vertical raceways enablewires 228 to be threaded vertically as necessary through the interior of the furniture as shown inFIG. 44 . -
FIG. 54 illustrates another preferred embodiment of acell 236 having the features and advantages of thecell 200. Thecell 236, which is illustrated partially exploded, comprises first andsecond end plates 238. Theend plates 238 are preferably substantially rectangular. Eachend plate 238 preferably includes a plurality of outwardly facingbosses 240. Thebosses 240 create vertical raceways, as described above with reference to thecell 200. - Each
end plate 238 also preferably includes first andsecond tabs 242 protruding from anupper edge 244 and first andsecond tabs 242 protruding from alower edge 246. A portion of theupper edge 244 between thetabs 242 comprises anindentation 248, and a portion of theupper edge 244 between thetabs 242 comprises anindentation 248. Theindentations 248 provide clearance for elongate trays, as described above with reference to thecell 200. - The
end plates 238 are connected to one another bycrossbars 250. In the illustrated embodiment, eachcrossbar 250 connects atab 242 on oneend plate 238 to acorresponding tab 242 on theopposite end plate 238. Those of skill in the art will appreciate, however, that thecrossbars 250 may connect alternate portions of theend plates 250. - The
cell 236 ofFIG. 54 includes afoundation 252 comprising a rigid member connecting ends 254 of the twolower crossbars 250. When a plurality ofcells 236 are stacked, as inFIGS. 55 and 56 , thelowermost cell 236 preferably includes afoundation 252 to increase the rigidity of the stack. Eachfoundation 252 may includeglides 256 that enable thecell 236 to be more easily slid across a floor. Theglides 256 also preferably enable thecell 236 to be leveled when sitting atop an uneven surface. -
FIG. 55 illustrates a stack ofcells 236, andFIG. 56 illustrates the stack partially exploded. The stack may includecells 236 of different heights, as shown.Joints 258, comprising substantially cylindrical pins, cooperate with slots in eachcell 236 to connect neighboringcells 236. A variety of components are easily secured upon and within thecells 236 in the same manner described above with reference to thecell 200. - The present modular furniture system permits virtually unlimited flexibility in efficiently and economically designing office space. The uniquely designed
cells FIGS. 45 and 46 show, combinations ofcells - The units can also be easily rearranged to provide maximum storage and efficiency for any office environment. Storage components such as drawers are easily inserted from both a front or a back side of each cell. Storage space is thus easy to reallocate by moving a drawer from one side to the other. For example, if a worker in a first cubicle needs more storage space than a worker in a neighboring cubicle, a drawer inserted from the neighboring side can easily be removed and inserted from the first side.
-
FIG. 57 illustrates one of theend plates 102 ofFIG. 1 and two of the horizontal support beams ofFIG. 2 . The components form an L shape in front or rear elevation aspect. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that these components can be combined with additional end plates and horizontal support beams to form thecells 100 illustrated inFIGS. 4-6 . For example, the components shown inFIG. 57 can be combined with identical components that are oriented in an upside down and reverse fashion to form thecells 100 illustrated inFIGS. 4-6 . -
FIG. 58 illustratesend plates 300 and ahorizontal support beam 302 of another preferred embodiment of acell 304 of the present modular furniture system. Theend plates 300 andhorizontal support beam 302 are formed from a single sheet of material, preferably a metal such as steel. The sheet preferably includes first andsecond channels 306 in an upper surface thereof. Theend plates 300 are bent, at the dotted lines shown, with respect to the horizontal support beam to form thecell 304 shown inFIG. 59 . Thecell 304 preferably includesposts 308 for securing thecell 304 to another vertically adjacent cell (not shown). -
FIG. 60 illustrates anend plate 300 and ahorizontal support beam 302 that are formed integrally with one another, and bent to form an L-shaped part of acell 310. Thepartial cell 310 is easily combinable with a substantially identical partial cell to form a cell that is closed on four sides. Thepartial cell 310 includes T connectors 312 that facilitate connecting thepartial cell 310 to vertically adjacent cells. -
FIGS. 61 and 62 illustrate anotherpreferred cell 400 of the present modular furniture system. Thecell 400 comprises first andsecond end plates 402 connected by first and second horizontal support beams 404. The horizontal support beams 404 are formed as substantially rectangular bands.End portions 406 of the horizontal support beams 404 seat withinchannels 408 in theend plates 402, as shown inFIG. 62 .FIG. 63 illustrates two of thecells 400 in a vertically stacked arrangement. -
FIGS. 64 and 65 illustrate anotherpreferred cell 500 of the present modular furniture system. Thecell 500 comprisesend plates 502 that connect with ahorizontal support beam 504 viaT connectors 506.Vertical portions 508 of theT connectors 506 engage theend plates 502, whilehorizontal portions 510 of theT connectors 506 engage thehorizontal support beam 504, as shown inFIG. 65 . Thehorizontal portions 510 preferably seat withinchannels 512 in thehorizontal support beam 504. Thevertical portions 508 preferably seat withinchannels 514 in theend plates 502. -
FIG. 66 illustrates one of theend plates 502, two of theT connectors 506 and thehorizontal support beam 504 ofFIGS. 64 and 65 . Those of skill in the art will appreciate that these components are combinable with other substantially identical components to form a cell that is closed on four sides. - The above presents a description of the best mode contemplated for carrying out the present modular furniture system, and of the manner and process of making and using it, in such full, clear, concise, and exact terms as to enable any person skilled in the art to which it pertains to make and use this modular furniture system. This modular furniture system is, however, susceptible to modifications and alternate constructions from that discussed above that are fully equivalent. Consequently, this modular furniture system is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. On the contrary, this modular furniture system covers all modifications and alternate constructions coming within the spirit and scope of the modular furniture system as generally expressed by the following claims, which particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter of the modular furniture system.
Claims (40)
1. A cell that is adapted to be combined with other similar cells to form a furniture system, the cell comprising:
first and second spaced end plates; and
at least one horizontal support beam; wherein
the cell is adapted to receive a storage component from both a first side and a second side opposite the first side.
2. The cell of claim 1 , wherein the storage component is a hanging-file drawer, a closed drawer, a door, doors, a shelf, a roll-up covering, an accessory panel, a work surface, or a roll-out shelf.
3. The cell of claim 1 , wherein each end plate includes at least one removable tab.
4. The cell of claim 1 , wherein when corresponding tabs are removed from the end plates, the cell defines at least one raceway for receiving electrical wiring or data cabling.
5. The cell of claim 4 , wherein the raceway is at least partially bounded by at least one tray.
6. The cell of claim 1 , wherein the at least one horizontal support beam comprises a crossbar with posts disposed at either end thereof the posts being substantially parallel to one another and also substantially perpendicular to the crossbar.
7. The cell of claim 6 , wherein each post includes a plurality of vertically spaced slots.
8. The cell of claim 7 , wherein the vertically spaced slots are adapted to receive vertically spaced hooks to secure items to the cell.
9. The cell of claim 6 , wherein each post is adapted to be secured to one of the end plates.
10. The cell of claim 9 , wherein each post is received within a channel on the end plate to which it is secured.
11. The cell of claim 10 , wherein the at least one horizontal support beam is shaped substantially as an I.
12. The cell of claim 11 , wherein the cell is a first cell, a first end of each post is adapted to be secured to the first cell, and a second end of each post is adapted to be secured to a second cell that is vertically adjacent to the first cell.
13. The cell of claim 1 , further comprising a foundation upon which the cell is adapted to rest.
14. The cell of claim 13 , wherein the foundation comprises at least one foundation support.
15. The cell of claim 14 , wherein the foundation support is a glide or a wheel.
16. The cell of claim 1 , wherein the cell is a first cell and is adapted to be vertically stacked with a second cell that is substantially identical to the first cell.
17. The cell of claim 1 , wherein the cell is a first cell and is adapted to be placed horizontally adjacent a second cell that is substantially identical to the first cell.
18. The cell of claim 17 , further comprising a bridge for connecting the first cell to the second cell.
19. The cell of claim 1 , in combination with a panel, wherein the panel is connected to a first end of the cell and the panel is adapted to divide adjacent work areas.
20. A cell that is adapted to be combined with other similar cells to form a furniture system, the cell comprising:
first and second spaced end plates; and
at least one horizontal support beam; wherein
the at least one horizontal support beam comprises a crossbar with posts disposed at either end thereof the posts being substantially parallel to one another and also substantially perpendicular to the crossbar.
21. The cell of claim 20 , wherein each end plate includes at least one removable tab.
22. The cell of claim 20 , wherein the at least one horizontal support beam is shaped substantially as an I.
23. The cell of claim 22 , wherein each post is adapted to be secured to one of the end plates.
24. The cell of claim 23 , wherein the cell is a first cell, a first end of each post is adapted to be secured to the first cell, and a second end of each post is adapted to be secured to a second cell that is vertically adjacent to the first cell.
25. The cell of claim 20 , further comprising a foundation upon which the cell is adapted to rest.
26. The cell of claim 25 , wherein the foundation comprises first and second spaced end members, first and second spaced cross members, and at least one bracket projecting upwardly from each end member.
27. The cell of claim 26 , wherein each end plate is adapted to rest atop one of the end members such that a corresponding one of the brackets is releasably securable to the end plate.
28. A furniture system, comprising:
a cell defining a storage space therein that is at least partially bounded by first and second spaced end plates and at least one horizontal support beam; and
a tile; wherein
the tile is securable between the end plates to thereby define a further boundary of the cell.
29. The furniture system of claim 28 , wherein the tile may be positioned on a first side of the cell or a second side of the cell opposite the first side, or simultaneously on both the first side and the second side.
30. The furniture system of claim 28 , wherein the end plates include apertures, the tile includes tabs, and the tabs engage the apertures to secure the tile to the cell.
31. The furniture system of claim 28 , wherein the end plates include apertures, the tile includes hooks, and the hooks engage the apertures to secure the tile to the cell.
32. The furniture system of claim 28 , wherein the cell is adapted to receive, from a first side, a storage component, while the tile is positioned on a second side of the cell opposite the first side.
33. The furniture system of claim 32 , wherein the storage component is a hanging-file drawer, a closed drawer, a door, doors, a shelf, a roll-up covering, an accessory panel, a work surface, or a roll-out shelf.
34. The furniture system of claim 32 , wherein the cell is adapted to receive, from the second side, a storage component, while the tile is positioned on the first side of the cell.
35. The furniture system of claim 34 , wherein the storage component is a hanging-file drawer, a closed drawer, a door, doors, a shelf, a roll-up covering, an accessory panel, a work surface, or a roll-out shelf.
36. A furniture system, comprising:
a cell defining a storage space therein that is at least partially bounded by first and second spaced end plates and at least one horizontal support beam; and
a tile; wherein
the tile is securable to either of the end plates to thereby at least partially cover the end plate.
37. The furniture system of claim 36 , wherein the end plates include apertures, the tile includes tabs, and the tabs engage the apertures to secure the tile to the cell.
38. The furniture system of claim 36 , wherein the end plates include apertures, the tile includes hooks, and the hooks engage the apertures to secure the tile to the cell.
39. The furniture system of claim 36 , wherein the cell is adapted to receive, from a both a first side and a second side opposite the first side, a storage component.
40. The furniture system of claim 39 , wherein the storage component is a hanging-file drawer, a closed drawer, a door, doors, a shelf, a roll-up covering, an accessory panel, a work surface, or a roll-out shelf.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/512,786 US20050162051A1 (en) | 2002-05-01 | 2003-05-01 | Modular furniture system |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US37750102P | 2002-05-01 | 2002-05-01 | |
US10/512,786 US20050162051A1 (en) | 2002-05-01 | 2003-05-01 | Modular furniture system |
PCT/US2003/013543 WO2003092436A2 (en) | 2002-05-01 | 2003-05-01 | Modular furniture system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20050162051A1 true US20050162051A1 (en) | 2005-07-28 |
Family
ID=29401510
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/512,786 Abandoned US20050162051A1 (en) | 2002-05-01 | 2003-05-01 | Modular furniture system |
Country Status (7)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20050162051A1 (en) |
EP (1) | EP1507467A4 (en) |
CN (1) | CN100536719C (en) |
AU (1) | AU2003228788A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2502318C (en) |
MX (1) | MXPA04010837A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2003092436A2 (en) |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070126323A1 (en) * | 2005-12-07 | 2007-06-07 | Sfpd, Inc. | Shelving with a drop leaf, drawer and pullout tray |
US20080074015A1 (en) * | 2006-08-15 | 2008-03-27 | David Parshad | Stacked cabinet structure with intermediate raceway |
US20080128319A1 (en) * | 2006-11-30 | 2008-06-05 | Maria Alejandra Noble Colin | Modular Display Rack |
CN102726941A (en) * | 2011-04-06 | 2012-10-17 | 亚梭家私国际有限公司 | Adjustable table structure |
CN102846049A (en) * | 2012-08-24 | 2013-01-02 | 宁波倍宜家具有限公司 | Television bench bracket structure and manufacturing method thereof |
US9161622B1 (en) * | 2014-07-09 | 2015-10-20 | Russ Bassett Corporation | Air traffic control center console |
WO2018114438A1 (en) * | 2016-12-20 | 2018-06-28 | Terry Store-Age S.P.A. | Assemblable modular wardrobe made of plastic material |
US11363883B2 (en) * | 2018-02-08 | 2022-06-21 | Alert Innovation Inc. | Modular structure for an automated storage and retrieval system |
US11497325B2 (en) * | 2020-11-18 | 2022-11-15 | Bruegmann USA, Inc. | Vertically stackable, laterally extendable merchandise display system |
Families Citing this family (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
MX344168B (en) | 2013-09-26 | 2016-12-07 | De Leon Vazquez Eduardo | Modular furniture system and modular furniture. |
CN108272235B (en) * | 2018-02-09 | 2024-05-07 | 宁波积家创意家居设计有限公司 | Module commodity shelf |
CN110833287A (en) * | 2018-08-16 | 2020-02-25 | 青岛海尔特种电冰柜有限公司 | Shelf and selling cabinet |
Citations (33)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US869491A (en) * | 1907-08-21 | 1907-10-29 | George H Hurteau | Shelving. |
US2310699A (en) * | 1941-06-14 | 1943-02-09 | Frederick W Hvoslef | Flue door shield |
US2489494A (en) * | 1946-02-01 | 1949-11-29 | George W Martin | Outboard motor choke and priming means |
US3195966A (en) * | 1963-05-13 | 1965-07-20 | Doherty Henry | Step-up file cabinets |
US3425171A (en) * | 1966-02-09 | 1969-02-04 | Miller Herman Inc | Space divider system |
US3695190A (en) * | 1970-08-05 | 1972-10-03 | Comerco Inc | Knockdown sectional shelving |
US3901611A (en) * | 1973-07-18 | 1975-08-26 | Dominion Bridge Co Ltd | Connector |
US4130971A (en) * | 1975-08-05 | 1978-12-26 | Willi Herrig | Set of structural elements for producing cupboard walls and other wall units |
US4146141A (en) * | 1977-01-17 | 1979-03-27 | Winter Russell K | Display system |
US4206956A (en) * | 1977-10-12 | 1980-06-10 | Ingenjorsfirma Eifa Ab | Knock-down cupboard assembly |
US4232916A (en) * | 1978-11-27 | 1980-11-11 | Daniel Correia | Demountable and stackable multipurpose container |
US4274547A (en) * | 1978-12-04 | 1981-06-23 | Tokyo Shibaura Henki Kabushiki Kaisha | Enclosed switchboard |
US4325597A (en) * | 1980-03-27 | 1982-04-20 | Knoll International, Inc. | Furniture systems |
US4371221A (en) * | 1979-02-02 | 1983-02-01 | Camillo Citterio | Composite modular element structure for furnishings |
US4418627A (en) * | 1981-01-21 | 1983-12-06 | Baker Edward A | Shelf-type storage system |
US4553383A (en) * | 1982-12-21 | 1985-11-19 | Vyzkumny Ustav Bavlnarsky | Method of and apparatus for spinning yarn from staple fibers in an air vortex |
US4567698A (en) * | 1983-12-13 | 1986-02-04 | Knoll International, Inc. | Space divider system |
US4569451A (en) * | 1984-04-06 | 1986-02-11 | Gower Corporation | Connector structure for tubular marginal constructions |
US4660901A (en) * | 1983-12-27 | 1987-04-28 | Nihon Shuno System Kabushiki Kaisha | Prefabricated furniture |
US4691644A (en) * | 1982-09-20 | 1987-09-08 | Georges Frydman | Frame structure especially for a cabinet, e.g. of the shelved type |
US4805787A (en) * | 1986-04-11 | 1989-02-21 | National Service Industries | Hanging compartment support system |
US4875418A (en) * | 1986-03-11 | 1989-10-24 | Nixdorf Computer Ag | Set of components for constructing furniture pieces |
US4973110A (en) * | 1988-09-12 | 1990-11-27 | Nyquist Lawrence M | Structural frame assembly |
US5016764A (en) * | 1989-11-13 | 1991-05-21 | Scholl, Inc. | Merchandise display unit |
US5039177A (en) * | 1990-07-02 | 1991-08-13 | Haworth, Inc. | Cabinet with panel-attachment corner detail |
US5279232A (en) * | 1992-12-09 | 1994-01-18 | Gollick Thomas W | Modular shelving interconnection assembly |
US5328260A (en) * | 1991-05-07 | 1994-07-12 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Modular furniture system with wire management |
US5335606A (en) * | 1993-01-05 | 1994-08-09 | Whitehead Verlon E | Interlocking shelving unit |
US5352032A (en) * | 1992-10-13 | 1994-10-04 | Ask Research & Development, Inc. | Adjustable cabinet system |
US6135583A (en) * | 1998-11-20 | 2000-10-24 | Steelcase Development Inc. | Storage unit |
US6735908B2 (en) * | 2002-04-22 | 2004-05-18 | Inscape Corporation | Straddle bin |
US20050035697A1 (en) * | 2003-08-13 | 2005-02-17 | Huang Kun Chen | Cabinet having an assembling structure |
US6899404B1 (en) * | 2003-06-16 | 2005-05-31 | Ron E. King | Cabinet system |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3653734A (en) * | 1969-03-05 | 1972-04-04 | Armstrong Cork Co | Modular furniture |
CA929199A (en) * | 1970-06-29 | 1973-06-26 | A. Ungaro Nicholas | Modular furniture |
DE8618327U1 (en) * | 1986-07-09 | 1986-08-21 | Innovative Produkte Lanuzzi + Dubach AG, Bäretswil | Table, especially an office desk |
DE29720746U1 (en) * | 1997-11-22 | 1998-01-15 | heerum Holz-Einrichtungstechnik GmbH u. Co. KG, 73463 Westhausen | Table made up of detachably connected elements |
CN2385598Y (en) * | 1999-06-30 | 2000-07-05 | 王文灿 | Shelf for putting articles |
CN2479800Y (en) * | 2001-04-03 | 2002-03-06 | 王文灿 | Optional assembly rack, cabinet |
-
2003
- 2003-05-01 WO PCT/US2003/013543 patent/WO2003092436A2/en active Search and Examination
- 2003-05-01 CN CNB038157047A patent/CN100536719C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-05-01 AU AU2003228788A patent/AU2003228788A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-05-01 US US10/512,786 patent/US20050162051A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-05-01 CA CA002502318A patent/CA2502318C/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-05-01 MX MXPA04010837A patent/MXPA04010837A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2003-05-01 EP EP03726559A patent/EP1507467A4/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (33)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US869491A (en) * | 1907-08-21 | 1907-10-29 | George H Hurteau | Shelving. |
US2310699A (en) * | 1941-06-14 | 1943-02-09 | Frederick W Hvoslef | Flue door shield |
US2489494A (en) * | 1946-02-01 | 1949-11-29 | George W Martin | Outboard motor choke and priming means |
US3195966A (en) * | 1963-05-13 | 1965-07-20 | Doherty Henry | Step-up file cabinets |
US3425171A (en) * | 1966-02-09 | 1969-02-04 | Miller Herman Inc | Space divider system |
US3695190A (en) * | 1970-08-05 | 1972-10-03 | Comerco Inc | Knockdown sectional shelving |
US3901611A (en) * | 1973-07-18 | 1975-08-26 | Dominion Bridge Co Ltd | Connector |
US4130971A (en) * | 1975-08-05 | 1978-12-26 | Willi Herrig | Set of structural elements for producing cupboard walls and other wall units |
US4146141A (en) * | 1977-01-17 | 1979-03-27 | Winter Russell K | Display system |
US4206956A (en) * | 1977-10-12 | 1980-06-10 | Ingenjorsfirma Eifa Ab | Knock-down cupboard assembly |
US4232916A (en) * | 1978-11-27 | 1980-11-11 | Daniel Correia | Demountable and stackable multipurpose container |
US4274547A (en) * | 1978-12-04 | 1981-06-23 | Tokyo Shibaura Henki Kabushiki Kaisha | Enclosed switchboard |
US4371221A (en) * | 1979-02-02 | 1983-02-01 | Camillo Citterio | Composite modular element structure for furnishings |
US4325597A (en) * | 1980-03-27 | 1982-04-20 | Knoll International, Inc. | Furniture systems |
US4418627A (en) * | 1981-01-21 | 1983-12-06 | Baker Edward A | Shelf-type storage system |
US4691644A (en) * | 1982-09-20 | 1987-09-08 | Georges Frydman | Frame structure especially for a cabinet, e.g. of the shelved type |
US4553383A (en) * | 1982-12-21 | 1985-11-19 | Vyzkumny Ustav Bavlnarsky | Method of and apparatus for spinning yarn from staple fibers in an air vortex |
US4567698A (en) * | 1983-12-13 | 1986-02-04 | Knoll International, Inc. | Space divider system |
US4660901A (en) * | 1983-12-27 | 1987-04-28 | Nihon Shuno System Kabushiki Kaisha | Prefabricated furniture |
US4569451A (en) * | 1984-04-06 | 1986-02-11 | Gower Corporation | Connector structure for tubular marginal constructions |
US4875418A (en) * | 1986-03-11 | 1989-10-24 | Nixdorf Computer Ag | Set of components for constructing furniture pieces |
US4805787A (en) * | 1986-04-11 | 1989-02-21 | National Service Industries | Hanging compartment support system |
US4973110A (en) * | 1988-09-12 | 1990-11-27 | Nyquist Lawrence M | Structural frame assembly |
US5016764A (en) * | 1989-11-13 | 1991-05-21 | Scholl, Inc. | Merchandise display unit |
US5039177A (en) * | 1990-07-02 | 1991-08-13 | Haworth, Inc. | Cabinet with panel-attachment corner detail |
US5328260A (en) * | 1991-05-07 | 1994-07-12 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Modular furniture system with wire management |
US5352032A (en) * | 1992-10-13 | 1994-10-04 | Ask Research & Development, Inc. | Adjustable cabinet system |
US5279232A (en) * | 1992-12-09 | 1994-01-18 | Gollick Thomas W | Modular shelving interconnection assembly |
US5335606A (en) * | 1993-01-05 | 1994-08-09 | Whitehead Verlon E | Interlocking shelving unit |
US6135583A (en) * | 1998-11-20 | 2000-10-24 | Steelcase Development Inc. | Storage unit |
US6735908B2 (en) * | 2002-04-22 | 2004-05-18 | Inscape Corporation | Straddle bin |
US6899404B1 (en) * | 2003-06-16 | 2005-05-31 | Ron E. King | Cabinet system |
US20050035697A1 (en) * | 2003-08-13 | 2005-02-17 | Huang Kun Chen | Cabinet having an assembling structure |
Cited By (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20070126323A1 (en) * | 2005-12-07 | 2007-06-07 | Sfpd, Inc. | Shelving with a drop leaf, drawer and pullout tray |
US20080074015A1 (en) * | 2006-08-15 | 2008-03-27 | David Parshad | Stacked cabinet structure with intermediate raceway |
US7735939B2 (en) | 2006-08-15 | 2010-06-15 | Inscape Corporation | Stacked cabinet structure with intermediate raceway |
US20080128319A1 (en) * | 2006-11-30 | 2008-06-05 | Maria Alejandra Noble Colin | Modular Display Rack |
US7762410B2 (en) * | 2006-11-30 | 2010-07-27 | Sabritas, S. De R.L. De C.V. | Modular display rack |
CN102726941A (en) * | 2011-04-06 | 2012-10-17 | 亚梭家私国际有限公司 | Adjustable table structure |
CN102846049A (en) * | 2012-08-24 | 2013-01-02 | 宁波倍宜家具有限公司 | Television bench bracket structure and manufacturing method thereof |
US9161622B1 (en) * | 2014-07-09 | 2015-10-20 | Russ Bassett Corporation | Air traffic control center console |
WO2018114438A1 (en) * | 2016-12-20 | 2018-06-28 | Terry Store-Age S.P.A. | Assemblable modular wardrobe made of plastic material |
US20190313790A1 (en) * | 2016-12-20 | 2019-10-17 | Terry Store-Age S.P.A. | Assemblable modular wardrobe made of plastic material |
US10765204B2 (en) * | 2016-12-20 | 2020-09-08 | Terry Store-Age S.P.A. | Assemblable modular wardrobe made of plastic material |
US11363883B2 (en) * | 2018-02-08 | 2022-06-21 | Alert Innovation Inc. | Modular structure for an automated storage and retrieval system |
US11497325B2 (en) * | 2020-11-18 | 2022-11-15 | Bruegmann USA, Inc. | Vertically stackable, laterally extendable merchandise display system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
AU2003228788A8 (en) | 2003-11-17 |
CN100536719C (en) | 2009-09-09 |
CA2502318A1 (en) | 2003-11-13 |
CN1665428A (en) | 2005-09-07 |
MXPA04010837A (en) | 2005-02-14 |
WO2003092436A3 (en) | 2004-09-02 |
AU2003228788A1 (en) | 2003-11-17 |
EP1507467A2 (en) | 2005-02-23 |
WO2003092436A2 (en) | 2003-11-13 |
CA2502318C (en) | 2008-10-14 |
EP1507467A4 (en) | 2005-07-27 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6220186B1 (en) | Modular interior furnishing system | |
US5394658A (en) | Free standing modular furniture and wall system | |
US5174532A (en) | Leg assembly | |
US6712433B2 (en) | Workstation system | |
US5974742A (en) | Free standing modular furniture and wall system | |
US6497075B1 (en) | Free standing modular architectural beam system | |
US8393122B2 (en) | Partition system | |
US9968187B2 (en) | Modular furniture unit having power distribution | |
US8667908B2 (en) | Frame type table assemblies | |
US7469512B2 (en) | Fabricated wall system | |
US5291700A (en) | Activities module | |
US5950371A (en) | Column mountable shelf for furniture systems | |
CA1067557A (en) | End panel support system | |
CA2502318C (en) | Modular furniture system | |
US20050005527A1 (en) | Partition system | |
US20090282663A1 (en) | Furniture Assembly | |
AU7373698A (en) | Knock-down portable partition system | |
US20100095512A1 (en) | Modular system of closet inside part or dressing room complement of combinable and adjustable design easily assembled and packed by the user | |
US6076474A (en) | Freestanding furniture system | |
US7484465B2 (en) | Furniture storage unit structure and construction method | |
EP1680976A1 (en) | Modular equipped wall | |
US20080224580A1 (en) | Modular furniture | |
US6010015A (en) | Decorative compact disk rack | |
US20020153813A1 (en) | Modular furniture construction system | |
US4103782A (en) | Display units |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HNI TECHNOLOGIES INC., IOWA Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:HON TECHNOLOGY INC.;REEL/FRAME:015877/0733 Effective date: 20040511 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: HNI TECHNOLOGIES INC., IOWA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:MADSEN, PETER RAMSEY;POKLETAR, WILLIAM JAMES;REEL/FRAME:018458/0929 Effective date: 20060927 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |