WO2009052656A1 - Furniture system - Google Patents

Abstract

A space-dividing furniture system includes a powered frame having extruded frame rails which define outward opening channels in which cabling and other brackets are received. An additional desking unit is usable separately from or in direct connection to the frame. The desking system comprises a work top assembly with an extruded perimeter frame which includes mounting slots along the lengths thereof for the connection of legs thereto. The legs are mountable directly to the mounting slots of a single table or may span to adjacent tables to define a common support structure therefore.

Description

FURNITURE SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to an office furniture arrangement comprising a space-dividing, cable-carrying frame, a table assembly and storage cabinets, usable both in combination with the each other or separately.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In conventional office environments, large open office areas are sub-divided into individual work spaces. Conventionally, wall panels and other space-dividing structures are used to separate one work area from another. Also, such wall structures are adapted to support the structural loads of work surfaces, overhead storage units, and other office furniture components. Additionally, the space- dividing wall panels and structures are configured with open interior regions to permit the supplying of cabling for power, data cables and the like.

[0003] Additionally, independent desking systems are used in office areas either separately by themselves or possibly within the work spaces defined by the wall panels. [0004] The invention relates to an improved space-dividing work space system comprising a space-dividing frame system, an associated desking system and a system of storage cabinets which systems usable in direct association with another system or separately therefrom.

[0005] The basic space-dividing frame system is a rectangular frame or hoop-like structure formed of extruded frame rails having a multi-function capability. The frame rails are joined together at the corners thereof to define an open hoop which may also include an interior panel to define a physical barrier but also provide interior support to the frame rail structure.

[0006] Each of the side and top frame rails defines an outwardly opening cable-carrying channel and the bottom frame rail defines a respective cable-carrying channel or raceway to permit the laying in of cabling around the entire periphery of the frame which therefore allows cables to be laid within these channels and also exit or enter the channels at any location about said frame periphery. These channels are then enclosed by appropriate channel covers as desired. When used with the desking system, the desks may be positioned directly next to the frame or directly attached thereto, wherein power and data cables may be routed to the desk to supply powered equipment used on the desk, such as lights, computers, telephones and the like.

[0007] More particularly, the specific extruded profile of each frame rail is variable about the periphery wherein the vertical and horizontal frame rails are provided with one profile and the bottom frame rail has an alternate profile suited for freestanding, floor-supported positioning on a floor surface.

[0008] As to the vertical and horizontal rails, the profile has an inner mounting channel that allows for the seating of the interior panel on the inward side of the profile. The profile also has longitudinal interior mounting slots within the cable channel to support powered devices and mounting brackets within the cable channel, and exterior mounting slots for to permit the engagement of additional components, such as desks, by brackets which are supported by the exterior slots. [0009] Specifically, various elements may be mounted to the interior and exterior slots by connector inserts which seat within the interior or exterior slots at any desired location along the length thereof and have screw holes to allow for the attachment of the brackets and other components directly thereto.

[0010] In particular, the exterior slots are provided for engagement with various brackets that are screwed to the connector inserts so that the brackets are supported directly on the frame rail and project outwardly therefrom in cantilevered relation. One such bracket would be for the connection of a desking system thereto. [0011] The interior slots may be used to support a base plate within the cable channel which base plate may selectively support various brackets thereon. For example, one bracket could support an upstanding privacy screen that projects upwardly from the frame, while another type of bracket could be provided to support a support shelf that may be positioned at an elevation above -the work surface. [0012] Additionally, the frame profile defines interior connector slots that are provided near the upper edges of the frame rails to permit the connection of trim covers thereto. While the trim covers could be fixed trim covers that snap- connect to the frame and cover the cable channel, the trim covers preferably are hinged covers that connect to snap-in hinge brackets. The hinge covers are affixed to the connector slots and support the trim cover to permit wherein the trim covers may swung down to a closed position substantially enclosing the cable channel or upwardly to an open position providing access to the cable channel.

[0013] While the frame preferably is formed as a hoop, a single square-ended frame rail may be supported, for example, on legs to define a power spine that extends linearly and can be used to support desks on opposite sides thereof. [0014] With respect to the profile of the bottom frame rail in the power hoop, this is formed alternatively with a configuration that allows for the receipt of cabling therein which is then enclosed from above by removable covers. Still further, a connector assembly is provided for joining this bottom frame rail to a stabilizer plate that is adapted to be supported directly upon the floor by adjustable glides. [0015] With respect to the desking system, this desking system may be provided separately from the power frame as stand along desks or may have a portion thereof connected directly to the frame by the aforementioned bracket. The desking system includes a work top assembly having a work surface or table top mounted on a peripheral desk frame that is preferably rectangular. The desk frame is formed by extruded rails having a specific profile which is slotted to include faster engaging mounting slots for the desk legs and also has additional support slots for the engagement of brackets that support cabling, shelving, storage platforms or the like.

[0016] The mounting slots are configured for engagement with a leg having a bracket that is connected to such mounting slots by fasteners. The leg mounting slots are configured such that a single leg and its mounting bracket alternatively may span the joint between two directly adjacent desking units such that a single leg supports two work tops by engagement of the leg with two separate, parallel support rails. Further, the bracket on the power hoop or power spine may extend sidewardly and be screwed to the mounting slots along one edge of the desk to vertically support this edge and eliminate the need for legs on this one edge.

[0017] The storage cabinets are provided in various forms, but use a common cabinet construction. The cabinet construction uses an internal skeleton framework having exposed front and rear perimeter trim frames and internal connector rails extending rearwardly between the front and rear trim frames which are all rigidly joined together in an open box-like framework. The back trim frame supports a panel to close the back side, while an exterior shell or wrapper mounts over the framework to close off the sides and top of the cabinet. The back panel and shell have an aesthetic finish to define the finished appearance of the cabinet and are changeable to readily vary the cabinet appearance. [0018] The front of the cabinet may include slidable drawers and other storage components within the interior of the cabinet, a tambour door or may be left open if desired. [0019] Additionally, the back and sides of the cabinet include connector slots that engage with brackets, which brackets in turn may connect to the mounting slots of the desk frame if desired. When connected to a desk, the cabinet may take the place of the desk legs at least on that side. The cabinet connector slots also may be used to join two cabinets in tandem either in side-by-side relation or back-to-back relation.

[0020] This system provides an improved system over known space-dividing office systems and in particular, is found to be economical and simple in structure while also providing a highly functional design. The components are readily connectable together in a variety of different positions relative to each other to create a wide variety of workspace configurations using the same basic components. In particular, the power frame and spine, the desk frame rails, and the storage cabinet include elongate, linear mounting formations that define elongate connection lines along which these components may be connected to each other. These connection lines allow the components to not only be positioned in different positions but also may be repeatedly mounted and demounted with each other to allow for rapid changes without losing the function of the individual components .

[0021] Other objects and purposes of the invention, and variations thereof, will be apparent upon reading the following specification and inspecting the accompanying drawings .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0022] Figure IA is an end perspective view of an office furniture system of the invention illustrating a space- dividing frame formed as a power hoop with desk or table assemblies connected on opposite sides.

[0023] Figure IB illustrates the configuration of Figure IA with additional cabinets of the cabinet system providing therewith.

[0024] Figure 1C illustrates one end of a desk assembly being directly connected to a power hoop.

[0025] Figure ID is an enlarged, partial underside view of the bracket assembly connecting the desk assembly and power hoop together. [0026] Figure 2A is an end perspective view of an office furniture system of the invention alternatively illustrating the frame system in a power spine configuration and supporting a plurality of desks about its perimeter.

[0027] Figure 2B illustrates configuration of Figure 2A along with cabinets.

[0028] Figure 2C illustrates a power spine being provided with brackets to support adjacent edges of a plurality of desk assemblies .

[0029] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of the frame formed as a power hoop.

[0030] Figure 4A is a partial front view of the frame with peripheral power or data cabling disposed therein.

[0031] Figure 4B is an end view of the frame and cabling.

[0032] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the frame illustrating covers thereon with bottom covers being removed.

[0033] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the frame with trim covers partially removed from the frame.

[0034] Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating the frame covers and trim covers fully removed from the frame.

[0035] Figure 8A is a front view of the frame illustrating an interior support panel therein with the top frame rail being mounted to the side frame rails.

[0036] Figure 8B illustrates the top frame rail removed.

[0037] Figure 8C is an end view of the bottom frame rail assembly and support panel.

[0038] Figure 9A is a perspective view illustrating a plurality of frames joined serially together.

[0039] Figure 9B is an enlarged view illustrating the joining of two frames together.

[0040] Figure 1OA is a perspective view of the power hoop having a shelf and privacy screens simultaneously mounted to the top frame rail.

[0041] Figure 1OB is an end view illustrating a profile for the top and side extrusion frame rails for the frame. [0042] Figure 1OC is an isometric view of the frame rail with a connector insert being inserted into a connector channel .

[0043] Figure 1OD shows the insert in a mounted position. [0044] Figure HA is a perspective view of a frame rail assembly.

[0045] Figure HB is an exploded perspective view illustrating a connector assembly for joining adjacent ends of two extrusions together.

[0046] Figure HC is an enlarged view of two frame rail sections being joined together.

[0047] Figure HD shows the frame rail sections after assembly.

[0048] Figure 12A illustrates the bottom frame rail of a power hoop with a plurality of stabilizer plates being lengthwise mounted thereto.

[0049] Figure 12B is bottom view of the bottom frame rail. [0050] Figure 12C is an end view of the profile for the bottom frame rail.

[0051] Figure 12D is an enlarged view of a bottom extrusion rail and stabilizer plate lengthwise mounted to the bottom frame rail.

[0052] Figure 12E is an exploded perspective view of a the stabilizer plate components for crosswise mounting of the stabilizer plate to the bottom frame rail.

[0053] Figure 13A is an exploded view of a top frame rail and corner connector.

[0054] Figure 13B is a front view thereof.

[0055] Figure 13C is a perspective view of a bottom corner assembly.

[0056] Figure 13D is an exploded view thereof. [0057] Figure 13E is an end view thereof.

[0058] Figure 13F is a top view thereof with the side trim cover mounted in position.

[0059] Figure 14A is a perspective view of a top cable feed assembly. [0060] Figure 14B is a top view thereof. [0061] Figure 15A is an end view of the frame extrusion having a connector insert inserted into an interior mounting slot.

[0062] Figure 15B illustrates a support plate fastened to the inserts.

[0063] Figure 15 C illustrates cabling and cable covers disposed within the frame rail cable channel.

[0064] Figure 16A is an end view of the top frame extrusion with a trim cover assembly mounted thereto.

[0065] Figure 16B illustrates a privacy screen bracket and shelf bracket supported on the support plate. [0066] Figure 16C illustrates a privacy screen assembly during assembly thereof.

[0067] Figure 16D illustrates the privacy screen assembly after assembly.

[0068] Figure 16E illustrates the privacy screen mounting bracket.

[0069] Figure 17 is an underneath perspective view illustrating a desk mounting bracket mounted to the top frame rail.

[0070] Figure 17B is a perspective view of the desk mounting bracket.

[0071] Figure 18A is a perspective view of desk assemblies mounted to an intermediate power spine.

[0072] Figure 18B is a bottom view of the configuration of Figure 18A.

[0073] Figure 19A illustrates the power spine. [0074] Figure 19B shows the power spine inverted for assembly.

[0075] Figure 19C is an enlarged view of the mounting of a support leg to the power spine frame rail.

[0076] Figure 19D illustrates an end cap being mounted to the frame rail.

[0077] Figure 2OA is a partial bottom view of the connection of desk assemblies to the power spine. [0078] Figure 2OB is a partial bottom view illustrating a support leg being joined to one desk assembly to permit supporting of an adjacent desk assembly.

[0079] Figure 2OC is a partial bottom view of the outer corners of two adjacent desk assemblies being connected together by a connector plate.

[0080] Figure 21A is a perspective view of a desk or table assembly.

[0081] Figure 21B is an exploded view thereof. [0082] Figure 22 is an end view of a second embodiment of the desk assembly.

[0083] Figure 23 is an end view of a third embodiment of the desk assembly.

[0084] Figure 24 is an end view illustrating a fourth embodiment of the desk assembly.

[0085] Figure 25A is a perspective view illustrating the leg arrangement of the desk embodiment of Figure 18A. [0086] Figure 25B is a bottom view thereof.

[0087] Figure 26A illustrates another leg of the Figure 21A desk embodiment with casters mounted to the bottoms of the legs .

[0088] Figure 26B is a bottom view thereof. [0089] Figure 27A is an exploded view of the work top assembly including the work top and work top frame assembly. [0090] Figure 27B is a bottom view of one corner of the perimeter work top frame.

[0091] Figure 27C is a perspective view of the frame corner with a connector insert disposed in a support channel. [0092] Figure 27D illustrates the connector insert rotated for removal or insertion.

[0093] Figure 28A is a perspective view of a right-angle corner connector.

[0094] Figure 28B is a perspective view of an angular corner connector.

[0095] Figure 29 is a top perspective view of the work top frame . [0096] Figure 30 is a bottom perspective view of the work top frame.

[0097] Figure 31 is an end cross-sectional view of the table top and associated frame joined together. [0098] Figure 32 is a perspective view illustrating the bottom of a table top frame rail.

[0099] Figure 33 is an end view of the table top frame rail.

[00100] Figure 34A is an end assembly view of the frame rail with a cable support bracket mounted thereon.

[00101] Figure 34B illustrates a cabling trough supported on the frame rail in a first orientation.

[00102] Figure 34C illustrates the cabling trough in a second orientation.

[00103] Figure 35 is an end perspective view of the frame rail with various bracketry mounted thereto. [00104] Figure 36 is a front partial view of a table leg mounted to the work or table top assembly.

[00105] Figure 37A is an exploded bottom view of a connector bridge being mounted to the work top assembly. [00106] Figure 37B is an enlarged view of the bridge being connected to a frame rail.

[00107] Figure 37C illustrates a support leg being mounted to the bridge.

[00108] Figure 37D diagrammatically illustrates a computer holder or box being mounted to the bridge.

[00109] Figure 38A illustrates a space divider being usable with two desk assemblies.

[00110] Figure 38B is a bottom view of the divider screen mounting bracket being connected to the work top frame assemblies .

[00111] Figure 39 is a top view of a frame rail rim connector .

[00112] Figure 40 is a side cross-sectional view of the rim connector as taken a long line a-a of Figure 45. [00113] Figure 41 is a front view of the rim connector. [00114] Figure 42 is a side view thereof. [00115] Figure 43 is a bottom view thereof. [00116] Figure 44 is a top view of a leg connector. [00117] Figure 45 is a side view of the leg connector. [00118] Figure 46 is a front view of the leg connector. [00119] Figure 47 is a bottom view of the leg connector. [00120] Figure 48 is a perspective view of the desk assembly with the cabling trough being removed from a position adjacent to a power tray.

[00121] Figure 49 illustrates the power tray being removed from the desk assembly.

[00122] Figure 50 is a perspective view of the power tray. [00123] Figure 51 is an end cross-sectional view of the power tray mounted to the desk assembly. [00124] Figure 52 illustrates a downwardly suspended umbilical cord manager suspended from the desk assembly. [00125] Figure 53 illustrates the cord manager removed therefrom.

[00126] Figure 54 is a bottom view of the cord manager mounted to the desk assembly.

[00127] Figure 55 is a perspective view of a portion of the cord manager.

[00128] Figure 56 is an exploded view thereof. [00129] Figure 57 is a top plan view of a table leg with a wire manager mounted thereto.

[00130] Figure 58 illustrates a privacy screen mounted to the table legs.

[00131] Figure 59 is a cross-sectional view of the mounting bracket supported on a table leg.

[00132] Figure 60 is a top front perspective view of a storage cabinet.

[00133] Figure 61 is a bottom front perspective view of the storage cabinet.

[00134] Figure 62A is a rear perspective view of the storage cabinet. [00135] Figure 62B shows two storage cabinets joined together in back-to-back relation.

[00136] Figure 62C shows two storage cabinets being joined in side-to-side relation.

[00137] Figure 63A illustrates a storage cabinet being mounted to an edge of a work surface.

[00138] Figure 63B illustrates an alternate bracket used to connect the storage cabinet to the work top assembly. [00139] Figure 64 is an exploded view of the components of one embodiment of the storage cabinet having a tambour door configuration .

[00140] Figure 65 is a front view of the storage cabinet. [00141] Figure 66 is a side view of the storage cabinet. [00142] Figure 67 is a side cross-sectional view thereof. [00143] Figure 68 is a perspective view of an interior skeleton frame.

[00144] Figure 69 illustrates a shell.

[00145] Figure 70 illustrates one of the front and back frames forming part of the skeleton framework. [00146] Figure 71 is a top view thereof.

[00147] Figure 72A is an interior perspective view of an upper corner connector for one of the front and back frames. [00148] Figure 72B illustrates the other top corner block. [00149] Figure 73A illustrates a bottom corner block. [00150] Figure 73B illustrates the other bottom corner block.

[00151] Figure 74 illustrates a top connector rail joining the front' and back frames together.

[00152] Figure 75 illustrates a bottom connector rail. [00153] Figure 76 illustrates the ganging brackets for joining these storage cabinets as illustrated in Figure 62B. [00154] Figure 77A illustrates the rear ganging bracket prior to fastening to the storage cabinet.

[00155] Figure 77B illustrates two storage cabinets being brought together. [00156] Figure 77C illustrates two storage cabinets ganged together by a rear ganging bracket.

[00157] Figure 78A illustrates a side ganging bracket being mounted to a storage cabinet.

[00158] Figure 78B illustrates how a ganging bracket would insert into another storage cabinet.

[00159] Figure 79A is a front view of the side ganging bracket fastened to a storage cabinet.

[00160] Figure 79B illustrates two storage cabinets being brought together.

[00161] Figure 79C shows two storage cabinets joined by side ganging brackets.

[00162] Figure 80 is an exploded view illustrating an alternate storage cabinet construction.

[00163] Certain terminology will be used in the following description for convenience and reference only, and will not be limiting. For example, the words "upwardly", "downwardly", "rightwardly" and "leftwardly" will refer to directions in the drawings to which reference is made. The words "inwardly" and "outwardly" will refer to directions toward and away from, respectively, the geometric center of the arrangement and designated parts thereof. Said terminology will include the words specifically mentioned, derivatives thereof, and words of similar import.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00164] Referring to Figures 1A-1D, the workspace system 10 of the invention comprises several main components, namely a space-dividing frame system 12, a system of storage cabinets 13 and a desk system 14 which is mountable to the frame system 12 (Figure 1) or is used separately therefrom (Figure 21A) . [00165] The frame system 12, the desk system 14, and the storage cabinet 13 include elongate, linear mounting formations that define elongate connection lines along which these components may be connected to each other. These connection lines allow the components to not only be positioned in different positions but also allow the components to be repeatedly mounted and demounted with each other to allow for rapid changes without losing the function of the individual components.

[00166] Referring to the frame system 12, this frame system 12 generally defines a hollow interior channel region which extends about the periphery of the frame system to provide for the routing of cabling entirely therethrough. Additionally, the frame system 12 may be provided with a mounting bracket 15 (Figures 1C and ID) for the mounting of the desking system 14 thereto or also could have a space-dividing privacy screen 16 that might be mounted to a frame system 12 for visually dividing one area from another. The privacy screen 16 is optional such that the cable management or provision of cabling is provided in the frame system 12 which function is provided separate from the privacy function served by screens 16. Thus, the privacy function is an option separated from the cable management function.

[00167] The workspace system 10 generally is used in an office environment to separate an enlarged office area into smaller work spaces generally indicated by reference numeral 17 in Figures 1A-1C. The frame system 12 might be provided simply as a space-dividing structure for separating these work spaces 17 or more preferably could be used with the desking system 14 mounted thereto as in Figure 1 to permit the workspaces 17 to specifically function as a work environment and allow for various office personnel to use this space. [00168] As seen in Figure 1, the frame system 12 may have a power hoop configuration indicated by reference numeral 18 wherein the components of the desk system 14 can be positioned on opposite sides thereof.

[00169] Figures 2A-2C illustrate an alternate arrangement wherein the frame system 12 is formed in a power spine configuration 19, for example, to define large desk or table areas by cooperation with the desk system 14 and storage cabinet system 13. As seen in Figure 2C, the desk system 14 may be fixedly attached to the frame system 12 by additional bracketry. While the frame, cabinet and desk systems 12, 13 and 14 are usable and connectable together, such systems also are usable by themselves or in various combinations through connections made between the connection formations or lines which provides a great degree of flexibility when outfitting an office space.

[00170] Referring first to the frame system 12 as illustrated in Figures 1-20, it will be understood that this frame system 20 is independently usable but provides a base support structure for the desking system 14 where desired. [00171] Referring to Figure 3, the frame system 12 in the first power hoop configuration 18 comprises a hoop-like frame assembly 20 which is formed of a plurality of horizontal and vertical frame rails which preferably comprise vertical frame rails 21, a top frame rail 22, and a bottom frame rail 23. These frame rails 21-23 are joined together at adjacent ends by corner connectors 24 in the upper and lower corners. Generally as to Figure 3, the frame assembly 20 thereby has a preferably rectangular, perimetric shape which bounds the perimeter or periphery of an interior region 25, which in the illustrated embodiment is preferably left open to help with the passage of light and air. This frame assembly 20 defines a rigid, upstanding perimetric frame that extends to about the height of a conventional work surface in the preferred embodiment. This frame assembly 20 is rigid, and is adapted to be supported in upright relation on a floor surface or other support surface. As such, the frame assembly 20 may serve as a dividing barrier between two adjacent workspaces 17 or even areas of the same workspace. Since the interior frame region 25 may be left open and may only extend to about work surface or beltline height, the frame assembly might not truly define a visual block between the workspaces 17 but still may define a physical barrier or boundary.

[00172] In such workspaces 17, conventional office equipment typically requires the provision of electrical cabling and in most cases data cabling as diagrammatically seen in Figures 4A and 4B. The frame assembly 20 of the invention is particularly and specifically adapted to provide adjacent channel regions extending continuously about the perimeter thereof that allows for the laying of the cabling diagrammatically represented by solid lines 27. As will be appreciated from the following discussion, these cabling regions open outwardly about the entire periphery of the frame assembly 20 and thus allow for the entry and exit of the cabling 27 at any of a plurality of locations. For example, entry points or locations 28 and 29 are diagrammatically illustrated as coming into the frame assembly 20 from the side or bottom while exit locations are diagrammatically referenced by arrows 30 as exiting through the top of the frame unit 20. It will be understood that essentially any location about this frame periphery may be used for exit or entering of the cabling 27 which provides for a highly adaptable and flexible frame construction.

[00173] Referring to Figure 5, the various frame rails 21-23 are defined by a plurality of components comprising side rail extrusions 31, top rail extrusion 32, and bottom rail extrusion 33. Preferably, all of these rail extrusions 31-33 are formed of an extruded metal, preferably aluminum, wherein adjacent ends are joined together by right-angle corner blocks 34 discussed in further detail hereinafter.

[00174] As seen in Figure 7, the rail extrusions 31-33 are joined together by the corner blocks 34 and form a rigid rectangular frame structure that surrounds the open interior region 25. The specific profile of each of these extrusions 31-33 will be described in further detail herein. It will also be understood that the frame rails 21-23 further comprise additional trim components to finish off the overall shape and construction of this frame.

[00175] Generally, however, each extrusion 31-33 essentially defines an outward opening channel 36-38 respectively which allows for the laying of the cabling 27 therein. While it is understood that additional trim covers are provided as will be discussed in further detail herein, the basic frame structure extends continuously with the side walls of the individual extrusions 31-33 defining relatively continuous outer rims 46 and 47 on each of the front and back sides of the frame assembly 20.

[00176] Referring to Figure 5, the various channels 36-38 are removably enclosed by the multiple trim covers. For example, the frame assembly 20 includes a snap-in side cover 48, while the top channel 37 includes a hinged top cover assembly 49 which is illustrated in Figure 3 and then removed from in Figures 5, 6 and 7. These covers 48 and 49 are configured to permit selective passage of the cabling 27 into and out of the various channels 36-38.

[00177] Also, additional bottom covers 50 are provided which overlie the top of the bottom rail 33 and provides a finished experience having a shape and appearance which generally corresponds to the interior faces of the various frame rails 21 and 22.

[00178] As to these basic components, the frame unit 20 of Figures 8A-8C is illustrated in a horizontally enlarged version which is relatively long in the horizontal length while having the same basic height as a work surface. Since the top and bottom frame rails 22 and 23 are relatively long in the longitudinal length, additional interior support panels 51 fit within the interior of the interior region 25. As will be discussed in further detail herein, the top and bottom extruded rails 22 and 23 have a readily customizable length, while the extruded side rails 21 have a readily customizable height which length and heights may be accomplished by joining multiple extrusions together in fixed relation or varying the length of the rail extrusions. The connector structure for joining such extrusions together is described in further detail hereinafter. For now, it is understood that when such longer lengths are provided, the additional support panel 51 may be assembled within the interior region 25. In this case it may be a clear acrylic panel or could be a solid panel depending upon the final aesthetics which are desired for the office system 10. Further, the panel 51 is illustrated as only filling a center portion of the interior region 25 to effectively serve as a structural post-like support. This panel 51 also could be extended lengthwise so as to fill up the entire interior region 25 entirely between the side frame rails 21, and the top and bottom trim rails 22 and 23. The panel 51 also could be omitted as seen in Figure 6. [00179] Figures 8A and 8B illustrate the top rail 22 removed from the side rails 21 which allows for initial placement of the panel 51, wherein the top rail 22 would then be positioned on the side rails 21 as seen in Figure 8A and then secured in place by fasteners 52 that engage the corner connectors 24 as will described below.

[00180] Referring to Figures 9A and 9B, the office system 10 may also be constructed of a plurality of the frame assemblies 20 which are joined serially together in end-to-end relation to provide an alternative visual appearance. For example, Figure 9A and 9B illustrates a plurality of generally rectangular-type openings which have interior regions 25 that may or may not be filled with the panels 51. The frames 20 could also be dimensioned shorter so as to be square. This provides the same length as the frame construction of Figure 8A, but would have a distinctly different aesthetic and visual appearance which can be readily achieved without departing from the basic frame structures embodied in all of these frame assemblies 20.

[00181] The frame assemblies 20 are joined together by long fastener bolts 53 that draw the frame assemblies 20 sidewardly together. An additional trim cover 54 is provided to enclose the space 54A between the top trim cover assemblies 49. [00182] Referring to Figure 10A-10D, the extruded profile of the extrusion 31 is illustrated, with it being understood that this extrusion profile is the same as the profile for the side extrusions 32. As such, these extrusions 31 and 32 may be formed of the same extruded material with the primary difference being in the finished length of such extrusions 31 or 32 and the physical orientation of such extrusions when assembled into the frame assembly 20.

[00183] This cross-sectional extrusion profile provides for a multi-function capability such that a single profile performs multiple functions and provides significant flexibility and capability within the construction of the frame assembly 20. Generally as to Figure 1OB, each extrusion 31 is defined by an interior wall 55 which has an interior face 56 that faces inwardly towards the open frame region 25. The extrusion 31 further includes upstanding side walls 57 which project from the interior wall 55 to define a generally U-shaped profile that defines the respective channel 37 which opens outwardly away from the interior frame region 25. It will be understood that this profile as illustrated in Figure 1OB extends continuously along the length of the extrusion 31 or 32 such that the respective channel 37 defined thereby also extends continuously.

[00184] With respect to the interior wall 55, this wall 55 is formed with a central mounting slot 60 is provided which receives a respective edge of the above-described support panel 51. Adjacent to the slots 58', a pair of tubes 61 are formed inwardly thereof along with a pair of outer tubular sections 62. Outwardly therefrom, an additional pair of generally tubular chambers 63 are formed which open from opposite ends of the extrusion 31 or 32 to strengthen the extrusion profile.

[00185] With respect to the outer side 56 of the interior wall 55, additional formations are provided on this side of the wall 55 to perform additional functions or provide additional capabilities. In particular, two interior mounting slots 67 are provided which extend along the longitudinal extrusion length and have a semi-circular slot wall 68 which is engageable with fastener inserts at any point along the longitudinal length thereof and also open endwise to threadedly receive fasteners like fasteners 52 therein for forming corner joints between the rail extrusions. These fastener slots 67 define support edges 69 that face outwardly. [00186] Adjacent to the edges 69, a ledge or rib 70 is formed upwardly of the slot 68, and another ledge or rib 71 is disposed downwardly thereof for snapping engagement with additional system components. Adjacent thereto, rectangular cavities 72 and 73 are defined, and in the center of the profile, further grooves 74 are provided to define ribs 75. [00187] Referring to the side walls 57, these side walls 57 extend upwardly at an angle relative to the interior wall 55, and terminate at rim portion 80. The rim portion 80 includes a generally semi-circular mounting slot 81 formed like slot 67 which serves as a mounting slot for the aforementioned brackets 15.

[00188] Referring to Figures 1OC and 1OD, the support channel 60 has a rectangular shape and has ribs 82at the open side to define a narrowed channel mouth 83. The channel 60 open endwise so as to receive a block-like connector insert 84 therein as indicated by reference arrow 84B. The insert 84 has fastener bores 84A that open through the channel mouth 83 when the insert 84 is seated in channel 60 as seen in Figure 10D.

[00189] Referring to Figures 11A-11D, a long rail such as rail 32 may be formed of multiple, end-connected rail sections such as end rail sections 32A which are mitered at one end and square at the other, and an intermediate rail section 32B which is square-ended at the opposite ends. The rail sections 32A and 32B each include one or more connector blocks 85 affixed to the extrusion which include bores 85A extending there through. These bores 85A receive the fastener bolts 52 there through which engage their respective nut 52A to clamp the two blocks 85 together as seen in Figure HD. [00190] The joint is illustrated, for example, between two top extrusions 32A and 32B although it is understood that this joining method also is usable with the side extrusions 32 which also may be formed of multiple end-connected sections. A similar joining arrangement also is useful with the bottom extrusion 33. In Figure 7, the bottom rail 33 is formed from two end-connected extrusion sections 33A which have square ends joined together by aligned connector blocks 85. [00191] With the foregoing structure of the side and top rails 31 and 32 and following structure of the bottom rail 33, the frame assembly 20 may be readily assembled, preferably into a rectangular shape as illustrated in the associated drawings. Once assembled, the individual frame assemblies 20 then may be positioned in freestanding relation upon a floor or other support surface.

[00192] More particularly, for increased stability, the bottom frame rail 33 (Figures 12A-12E) is configured for fixed connection to a plurality of stabilizer plates 100 either in the endwise orientation of Figure 12B or the crosswise orientation of figure 12E. When affixed to the frame assembly 20, the stabilizer plates 100 rigidly support the frame 20 in the upstanding or upright orientation illustrated in Figure 12. However, the stabilizer plates 100 might not be provided, with the frame being stabilized by other components such as the desks.

[00193] Referring to Figure 12C, the bottom extrusion 33 is formed with a profile which differs from the side extrusions 32 and the top extrusion 31. Referring to the bottom extrusion 33 of Figure 12C, this extrusion includes an upward- extending center wall 101 which projects towards the interior frame region 25 and is configured to support the bottom trim covers 50 thereon. The center wall 101 has a panel slot 102 that is adapted to receive the bottom edge of the support panel 51 as illustrated in Figure 12D. Central wall 101 extends upwardly from the bottom wall 103 which defines separated bottom channels 38. The bottom channels 38 thereby open upwardly for carrying cables therethrough. [00194] Outwardly of the extrusion channels 38, an additional pair of outside walls 104 are provided which define outward opening mounting slots 104A therein. In particular, the slots 104A are defined on the top thereof by arcuate slot wall 104B. These slots 104A open endwise and sidewardly. [00195] At the top of the center wall 101 along the side edges of the slot 102, connector ribs 101A are provided for securing the covers 50 in position. As seen in Figure 12D, the cover 50 includes a first hinge rib 5OA that cooperates with the ribs 101A to allow for pivoting vertical movement of the cover 50. The cover 50 includes a latching flange 5OB that snaps over the arcuate wall 104B to maintain the cover 50 in a fixed, closed position.

[00196] To support the bottom frame rail 23 on a floor surface, this bottom rail 23 is supported on the floor surface by the stabilizer plate 100 illustrated in Figure 12E. In particular, the frame rail 23 may be mounted directly upon a floor surface 15 by floor glides 10OA. Particularly, the floor glide IOOA may comprise a threaded fastener-like support post IOOB which is threadedly engaged with the appropriate plate bores 105. The floor glide IOOB comprises an adjustment screw which defines the post and is threadedly engaged with the bore 105. The screw has a hexagonal head IOOC such that the depth of insertion of the glide IOOA may be varied as seen in Figure 14 to adjust and accomplish leveling of the assembly 20.

[00197] The plate 100 is secured to the bottom wall 103 by fasteners 106 in either the endwise orientation of Figure 12B or the crosswise orientation of Figure 3. In this crosswise orientation, the glides IOOA are covered by plate covers 10OD. [00198] To assemble the frame 20 as shown in Figures 13A- 13F, the corner connector 24 is provided which has a U-shape defined by a base 107A and upstanding legs 107B to define an open area 108 to allow passage of cabling at the corners of the frame 20. The base 107A includes two fastener walls 109 oriented at right angles to each other as seen in Figure 13B. When the walls 109 are oriented in respective vertical and horizontal orientations, the legs 107B are oriented at a 45 degree angle so as to be sandwiched between the mitered ends of two frame rails being joined together. In this orientation, the walls 109 face parallel to the faces of the opposing connector blocks 85 wherein notches 110 formed in the walls 109 align with the fastener bores in the blocks 85. In this orientation, each block 85 is bolted to a respective one of the connector walls 109 by a pair of bolts 112 which extend through the notches 110 and bores 85A and clamp same between the bolt head 113 and nut 114. As seen in Figures 13E and 13F, the corner connectors 24 are bolted to each of the blocks 85 to define a mitered corner between each pair of interconnected frame rails with the rectangular shape of the frame 20 being formed in this manner.

[00199] With the foregoing extrusion profile, additional functional and structural features may be added to the frame assembly 20. For example, Figures 14A and 14B illustrate a top feed assembly 115 that is formed by a vertical extrusion 115A that defines a sideward-opening cabling channel 115B. The extrusion 115A is enclosed on the open side by a snap-in cover 116. The extrusion 115A is attached to the top cross rail 32 by a bracket 117 that includes two L-shaped arms 117A which are defined by horizontal legs 117B and vertical legs 117C. The horizontal legs 117B have bores that allow for fasteners to extend through and engage an insert in the mounting slot 67 of the top frame rail 32. The vertical legs 117B similarly have bores that receive fasteners which fasteners engage inserts received in the mounting slots 115D formed in the extrusion 115. The clamping engagement of such components with inserts disposed in such mounting slots 67 is discussed in further detail below.

[00200] In another example, as seen in Figures 15A-15C, the top frame rail 32 may receive electrical components and other support brackets within the cabling channel 37 of the top extrusion 32 or even in the cabling channel of the side extrusion 31. [00201] The electrical component preferably may be an electrical receptacle adapted to receive plugs therein which in turn is connected to power cabling 27. To secure this receptacle component within the raceway channel 37, the receptacle component may be secured to a mounting plate. [00202] Additional components may also be mounted to the frame rail. Figures 15A-15B illustrate a mounting plate 118 which is rectangular and has mounting flanges 118A on the opposite sides thereof that engage a connector insert 119 which fits in any of the mounting slots 67 or 81. The insert 119 is a short metal bar having a pair of bolt holes 119a therein for receiving fastener 120. The insert 119 is thinner than it is wide such that the insert 119 can be turned sideways and slipped into the open side of the slots 67 or 81, and then rotated in the slot 67 or 81 so that the wide dimension is too large for the slot opening as can be seen in Figure 15A. The plate 118 is then screwed to the inserts 119 and secured in position as seen in Figure 15B. The function of this plate 118 will be described further below. [00203] As seen in Figure 15C, both data cabling 37A and power cabling 37B can be laid respectively in channels 73 and 72 and extend along the length of the frame rails as seen in Figures 4A and 4B. Cable covers 121 are provided which each have a hinge rib 121A that pivot against the rib 71, and a latching flange 121B that fits against the channel walls 72A and 73A.

[00204] The area above the covers 121 remains open for receiving data and power components such as receptacles which are accessible through the hinged covers 49 but are still accessible. A receptacle component may be positioned at any point along the longitudinal length of the channel 37. It will also be understood the receptacle could be for power or else a data outlet wherein cabling 37A is a data cable. [00205] As to the flip top hinged cover 49 seen in Figure 16A, the covers 49 each have a panel 122A with pivot pin fingersl22B on one side. A hinge bracket 123 has flanges 123A and 123B that snap onto the ribs 70 and 71 of the frame rail so as to be secured in place. The brackets 123 include pivot pins 123C to which the fingers 122B snap for hingedly connecting the covers 49 to the brackets 123 and in turn, connecting to the frame rail 32. While the covers 49 are openable to permit complete access to the cable channel 37, the covers 49 when closed define a slot 49A therebetween which allow cables to pass from the cable channel 37 to the exterior of the frame 20, such as to a desk arrangement. [00206] Referring to Figures 16B and 16C, the slot 49A also allows for brackets to project vertically therethrough. [00207] As seen in Figure 16B, the above-described mounting bracket 118 includes fastener holes to support the privacy- screen bracket assembly 124 which supports a screen panel 125 thereon. The bracket assembly 124 is secured to the plate 118 by fasteners 124A. Additionally, the mounting plate 118 may also support a shelf support bracket 126 wherein the brackets

126 and 124 face each other and project simultaneously through the trim slot 49A as seen in Figure 1OA. In particular, the screen panels 125 are each supported by bracket assembly 124 so as to extend centrally and longitudinally along the power frame 20. The screen panels may have variable heights and surface materials and textures, and may be mounted on the bracket assembly 124 anywhere along the length of the power frame or spine so that the amount of privacy is optional and may be altered as desired. Additionally, the bracket 126 supports a flat shelf 127 thereon. The bracket 126 and shelf

127 also may be positioned on the opposite side of the privacy screen bracket assembly 124 if so desired. Such brackets may also be used to support monitor arms, lighting and other office equipment along the length of the power spine or hoop to suit user needs.

[00208] Referring to Figures 16C-16E, the bracket assembly 124 has a main body 124B with bores 124C through which the screws 124A extend. The opposite sides of the main body 124B define spaces 124D which allow for nesting of the bracket 126 in side-to-side relation. The main body 124B projects upwardly to define a backing plate 124E having sidewardly projecting studs 124F which studs 124F in turn have elastomeric spacers 124G that seat against one side of the privacy screen 125. Referring to Figure 16C, the studs 124F project through the panel 125 wherein washers 124F are received and then screwed in place by fasteners 1241 that thereby secure the screen 125 to the backing plate 124E. Thereafter, a cover 124J (Figure 16D) is fitted in position to enclose the screws 1241 and washers 124H.

[00209] Referring to Figure 16B, the shelf bracket 126 has a lower leg 126A that also is screwed to the plate 118 by fasteners 126B. The lower leg 126A supports an upright body 126B which nests within the aforementioned recesses 124D of the bracket assembly 124. This body 126B then turns outwardly to define an upper leg 126C that has fastener holes 126D for fastening of the shelf 127 thereto.

[00210] Referring to Figures 17A and 17B, the attachment of the above-described desking bracket 15 is discussed in further detail hereinafter. This desk bracket 15 includes an upright arm 15A which aligns with the corresponding slot 81. Once the bracket 15 is aligned with this slot 81, it is further aligned with the insert 119 (Figure 15A) . Appropriate fasteners 15B are provided to pass through bores 15C and threadedly engage the bracket arm 15A to the frame rail 32 and thereby fix the desk bracket 15 in position. It is noted that the desk bracket 15 may be slid and then fixed to any location along the entire length of the extrusion 32 by leaving the fasteners 15B looses and then sliding the bracket 15 and interconnected insert 119 along the slot 81. The bracket 15 further includes an outer support arm 15D which projects outwardly and includes bores 15D through which fasteners 15F project into threaded engagement with slots in the desk frame 157 of a work top assembly 155 as will be described further hereinafter. [00211] Referring to Figures 18A and 18B, the frame system 12 may also be configured in the power spine configuration 19 discussed previously relative to Figures 2A-2C. The power spine configuration 19 essentially uses a single horizontal top frame 32 which is formed from the above-described frame sections 32A and 32B, which sections are joined together as described above. Generally, the frame extrusion 32 is provided without the remaining frame extrusions but instead is supported on a plurality of leg units 128 which are connected to the frame rail 32 by brackets 129. The power spine 19 in turn supports work top assemblies 155 thereon which are connected to the power spine 19 by the brackets 129. While one edge of the work top assemblies 155 would be supported by the power spine 19, the outer edges of such work top assemblies 155 would be supported by their own respective leg units 158. It is noted that the leg units 128 and 158 are formed identical to each other but designated by different reference numerals based upon whether they are connected to the power spine 19 or the work top assembly 155. [00212] More particularly as to Figures 19A-19C, the power spine 19, when assembled, is supported on the floor by the legs 128 which are longitudinally spaced apart from each other wherein typically a pair of such legs 128 supports a respective one of the frame sections 32A or 32B. The power spine 19 is assembled by placing the frame rail 32 in an inverted position as seen in Figure 19B, wherein the brackets 129 are fastened thereto by screws 130. As seen in Figure 19C, the bracket 130 includes outwardly projecting wings 131 which are each configured to support a respective one of the work top assemblies 155. The wings 131 project outwardly from a central bracket body 132. This central bracket body 132 includes bores 133 therein that allow for fastening of the leg unit 128 thereto by fasteners 128A. In particular, the leg unit 128 includes an upper bracket or head 134 which has outwardly projecting flanges 134A having bores which align with the bracket bores 133 for engagement with the fasteners 128A. In this manner, the plurality of legs 128 are secured in position on the frame rail 32, after which the spine assembly is flipped to the upright orientation of Figure 19A. As seen in Figure 19D, the end of the frame rail 32 also includes an end cap 135 which fits tightly into the open end of the frame rail 32 to enclose same. The frame rail 32 still includes the hinged cover assembly 49 to selectively provide access to a cable channel 37 extending horizontally therethrough .

[00213] Referring to Figure 2OA, the wings 131 of the bracket 129 project outwardly and vertically support the adjacent edge of the work top assembly 155 thereon. Fasteners 131A are then threaded into engagement with the parallel slots in the desktop frame rail assembly 157, which slots are described in further detail hereinafter. In this manner, the adjacent edges of the work top assemblies 155 are directly secured to the bracket wings 131 and supported thereby. Referring to Figure 2OB, the work top assembly 155 also may use a single leg unit 158 to support the adjacent side edges of two work top assemblies 155 as also seen in Figure 28. In this regard, the leg unit 158 as will be described further herein is formed identical to the leg 128. As can be seen in Figure 2OB, one side of the leg unit 158 may be attached to one work top assembly 155 while the opposite side of the leg unit 158 projects sidewardly therefrom for engagement with a second work top assembly 155 as illustrated in Figure 2OA. [00214] Outwardly therefrom, a tie strap 136 is provided that spans the joint between the two adjacent work top assemblies 155 and is then fastened to the frame rail assemblies 157 by fasteners 137.

[00215] With the foregoing arrangement, the frame system 12 may be readily formed into different sizes, shapes and dimensions although preferably, the basic assembly 20 has a height which generally corresponds to the height of a work surface. The extrusions 31-33 used to construct the frame assembly 24 perform multiple functions that allow for ready connection of brackets, electrical components, and the like both interiorly and exteriorly to the frame extrusions 31-33. [00216] Referring to Figures 21-59, the desking system 14 of the invention comprises a plurality of components which may be constructed into various configurations such as the desk assembly 150 of Figure 21A, or the various alternate desk assemblies 151 (Figure 22), 152 (Figure 23), and 153 (Figure 24) . Generally, the various desk assemblies include a work top or table top assembly 155 comprising a work surface 156 and a frame rail assembly 157. This work top assembly 155 includes the plurality of leg units 158A as seen in Figure 21A_f wherein the leg units 158A are formed as conventional table or desk legs disposed at the four corner locations and are interchangeable with above-described leg units 158. The frame rail assembly 157 defines a perimeter rim defining linear connection formations or lines for connection of system components. The perimeter rim avoids the requirement for beam structure and offers the ability to support different work surfaces 156 including weaker or thinner work surfaces or work surfaces having different colors or patterns. The individual desks may be provided as part of a manufacturer^, product offering where the desks may be varied merely by varying the work tops 155.

[00217] Referring to Figure 22, an alternate leg assembly 160 is illustrated which has a U-shaped leg structure 161 that is joined to the work top assembly 155 by mounting bracket 162.

[00218] Referring to Figure 23, the desk assembly 152 includes a work top assembly with the leg unit 163 having a trapezoid leg structure 164 joined to the work top assembly 155 by the mounting bracket 165. Similarly, Figure 24 illustrates the desk system 153 with the work top 167 mounted to the leg unit 168 by mounting bracket 169 disposed intermediately between the work top 167 and the leg structure 170. By providing the different interchangeable legs, the legs may be varied to suit different applications, from fixed height to a powered sit to stand leg configuration. This allows the aesthetic appearance of the table to be varied by varying the leg structure.

[00219] Referring to Figures 25A and 25B, the first embodiment of leg units 158A are illustrated which generally comprise an intermediate support tube 171 which mounts to the frame rail structure by upper mounting brackets 172. The lower end of the support tube 171 further may include casters 174 thereon to define a mobile table. With respect to the embodiment of Figures 26A and 26B_f this leg 158 has a leg extension 173. The lower ends of the support tubes 171 may further include height-adjustable leg extensions 173 which are vertically movable relative to the support tube 171 to permit legs of an single desk or a cluster of desks to be adjusted. [00220] Referring to Figure 27A-27D, the basic work top assembly 155 is illustrated with the frame rail structure 157 illustrated in exploded view prior to assembly to the work surface or table top 156. The work surface 156 preferably has a rectangular structure and is formed of any conventional work surface material such as MDF, HPL, compact laminate, or other types, colors and textures of monolithic work surface materials. If desired, the work surface 156 may be provided with an optional window 156A for supporting and accessing electrical components underneath the work surface 156. [00221] It will be understood that other furniture structures might be formed in place of the work surface 156. For example, this work surface 156 might in effect be part of a box-like cabinet structure wherein the frame rail assembly 157 is used to support such cabinet structure on legs . [00222] As to Figures 27A-27C, the work surface 156 is disposed in an exploded view above the frame rail assembly, wherein the frame rail assembly comprises a plurality of long frame rails 177 and shorter side frame rails 178. The individual frame rails 177 and 178 are joined together by corner rim connectors 179. As such, the various frame rails 177 and 178 along with the corner connectors 179 define a perimetric frame structure adapted to support the periphery of the work surface 156, which components are connected together and then joined to the work surface 156 by fasteners 177A, 178A and 179A.

[00223] The corner connector 28A as seen in Figure 28A is a right-angle connector in that the rails 178 and 177 are at right angles to each other when joined such as is seen in Figure 27B. Alternatively, the angular connector 179-1 may be provided wherein the frame rails 177 and 178 would be oriented at an angle relative to each other to accommodate a non- rectangular table top. Further, the connectors 179 and 179-1 define outside corners, but also could be used to define inside corners or the various components could have a curvature to define arcuate perimetric frames. With this frame construction, a variety of work surface shapes can be readily accommodated.

[00224] Figure 29 illustrates the top of the frame rail assembly which essentially has flat upper surfaces 180 for the various frame rails 177 and 178 which flat surfaces 180 abut against and contacting and thereby support the underside or bottom surface of the work surface 156.

[00225] Referring to Figure 30, this figure illustrates the frame rail assembly 157 turned over to expose the bottom side thereof. With respect to this view, the exposed underside 181 of such frame rails 177 and 178 include a plurality of parallel slots 182 in each of such undersides 181 which slots 182 provide for and cooperate with the attachment of the mounting brackets 172 or the alternate brackets 162, 165 and 169. These brackets allow for the connection of various work accessories such as monitor arms, shelves, lighting, etc. anywhere along the work surface perimeter to provide an ergonomic distance that best accommodates a userJM. reach. [00226] More particularly as to Figures 31 and 32, any work surface 156 has a top surface 185 and a bottom surface 156 that is adapted to overlie and abut against the upper frame rail surface 181. As seen in Figure 31, in such orientation, the fastener slots 183 open downwardly and extend generally parallel to the outer perimetric edge 187 of the work surface 156. Additionally, each frame rail 177 and 178 also has an inner mounting track or slot 190 which opens sidewardly as will be discussed in further detail herein.

[00227] Referring to Figures 32 and 33, each frame rail 177 and 178 preferably is formed of extruded aluminum so as to have a rigid structure with a cross-sectional profile that is identical and extends about substantially the entire periphery of the work surface 156. In particular, this extrusion profile comprises a top wall 191 extending across the width of the protrusion and a bottom wall 182 that is separated by the slots 183. At the outermost edge 192, an angled wall 193 is provided which defines an outer pocket 194 that extends along the longitudinal length of the rail 177 (178) . A center portion of the extrusion also includes an additional rectangular pocket 195 disposed centrally between the fastener slots 183. These pockets 194 and 195 respectively have opposite open ends 196 and 197 which open outwardly therefrom and are adapted to interlock with the corner connectors 179 as will be described in further detail hereinafter. [00228] As to the fastener slots 183, the slots are defined by opposed parallel side walls 200 which have serrations upon the inside face thereof that are adapted to threadedly engage with a threaded fastener such as a bolt or the like. Due to the longitudinal uniform shape of the slots 183, a bolt may be threaded into the slot 183 at any location along the longitudinal length thereof.

[00229] Furthermore, the rail extrusion 177 (178) also terminates with upwardly and downwardly extending ribs 201 which thereby define the sideward opening mounting slot 190 for use with brackets and the like.

[00230] Referring to Figure 34A, an example of a mounting hook 205 is illustrated which has an inwardly projecting hooked portion 206 and an outwardly projecting curved support arm 207. The support arm 207 as seen in Figure 35 may be used for the connection or support of various hanging components including cabling and the like. The hook portion 206 extends into and is adapted to fit through the open side 202 of the slot 190 and then shifts downwardly into hooked engagement with the lowermost slot wall 201.

[00231] Also as seen in Figure 35, an initial alternative mounting bracket 210 is illustrated for use with additional components. Also, a support tray 211 is illustrated which has cooperating mounting hooks 212 which engage the mounting slot 190. This tray 211 can span the width of the rails 177 or the distance therebetween and has appropriate hooks so as to engage with one rail 177 on one side and another rail 177 on the other side. Further, this tray 211 may be slid along the longitudinal length of the rails 177 to a desired position and thereby defines a support surface on which various cable or work area components may be supported.

[00232] Referring to Figures 34B and 34C, a cable management trough 213 is provided which has a trough portion 213A and a support flange 213B having fastener holes 213C which receive fasteners 214. The fasteners 214 extend into the mounting slot 190 and engage a nut-like insert 215. This insert 215 is somewhat rectangular and has a threaded fastener bore 215A that receives fastener 214. The insert 215 is oriented sideways as seen in Figure 27C and inserted into slot 190, and then is rotated upright as seen in Figure 27D to be captured behind the ribs 201 at the mouth of the slot 190. The screw 214 is then tightened to secure any desired component to the slot 190. For example, Figure 34B illustrates the trough 213 extending inwardly to away from the frame rail 177(178), while Figure 34C shows the 213 reversed so as to extend under the frame rail 177 (178) .

[00233] Referring to Figure 36, the corner connector 179 is generally illustrated as connecting the adjacent ends of the frame rails 177 and 178 together.

[00234] Referring to Figures 37A-37D, the mounting slots 190 on the frame 157 also can accommodate additional components such as a bridge 216 or a storage compartment 217. As to the bridge 216 shown in Figures 37A-37D, the bridge 216 spans the distance between the longer frame rails 177 and has a main body 216A with outwardly projecting screw flanges 216B. The screw flanges 216B include fastener holes 216C that are positioned for alignment with the mounting slot 190 and specifically, are each aligned with a corresponding one of the above-described inserts 215. Thereafter, fasteners such as fasteners 214 are engaged through the flanges 216B to secure the opposite ends of the bridge 216B in position. The bridge body 216 is then mounted to the rails 177 as shown in Figure 37C. It is noted that the bridge 216 includes a pattern of fastener holes which allow for the screwing of, for example, leg 158 thereto (Figure 37C) or even a computer support compartment 219 (Figure 37D) . The bridge 216 may be loosely connected to the inserts 215 by the fasteners 214 and then slid along the length of the slots 190 to any desired position at either of the opposite ends of the work top assembly 155. [00235] In addition to the foregoing, Figures 38 and 38B illustrate how the fastener slots 183 may be used to connect accessories to the worktop assemblies 155. For example, Figure 38A illustrates a divider screen 218 which comprises the panel 218A adapted to align with and extend along the joint defined between two adjacent worktop assemblies 155. The divider screen 218 also has a mounting bracket 218B which is configured to project underneath the worktop assemblies 155 and has a connector flange 218C with fastener holes 218D that are dimensioned so as to align with the rail slots 183. Once positioned, appropriate fasteners 240 are threaded upwardly through the holes 218D into threaded engagement with the slots 183 to secure the divider screen 218 in position. Other accessories, such as monitor arms, shelves, lighting and the like would be mounted to the desk using similar brackets. [00236] Referring to Figures 48-51, the storage compartment 217 is mountable to the under side of the work surface 156, In particular, the compartment 217 may be positioned below the access window 156A, which window 156A includes a trim ring 250 therein. Generally, the compartment 217 is mountable on one edge to the mounting slot 190 of a frame rail 177, and on the opposite side, is connected by a velcro tether strap 251 to the trim ring 250.

[00237] More particularly, the compartment 217 includes a pair of connector flanges 252 that fit within the slot 190 and allow for the opposite free side of the compartment 217 to pivot downwardly during assembly. This opposite side of the compartment 217 includes slotted posts 253 through which the tether strap 251 extends. This tether strap 251 also extends through a downwardly projecting flange 254 on the trim ring 250. By shortening the strap 251 and then securing same in an endless loop as seen in Figure 51, this strap 251 pulls the free side of the compartment 217 upwardly and holds same snug against the bottom of the work surface 156. In the interior of the compartment 217, a mounting plate 255 is provided which has electrical receptacles 256 supported therein. Plugs and electrical cords may be plugged to these receptacles 256 and in one option, may extend upwardly through the window 156A to supply power to office equipment disposed thereon. Also, cables may exit from the mounting plate 255 through passages 256 at the opposite ends thereof, wherein these cables may then pass sidewardly from the compartment 217 through side openings 257 and then pass into the cable troughs 213 described previously.

[00238] Hence, the mounting slots 190 may also be used to support this type of accessory component. [00239] As to the routing of cabling, Figures 52-57 illustrate a vertical wire manager 260 having a bracket 261 with projecting arms that have holes 262 therein so that same may be fastened to the rail slots 183 in the same manner as that described above. Cable manager 260 has an umbilical-type construction defined by a plurality of vertically stacked rings 263 which define passages 264 extending vertically therethrough that are open at the top ' and bottom thereof. These passages 264 allow for cables to pass from floor level to work surface level and then pass through to the storage compartment 217.

[00240] More particularly as to Figures 55-56, the cable manager 260 is defined by the top bracket 261, and the rings 263. Each ring 263 has a snap connector 266 at the top thereof that snaps into a corresponding bore either formed on the bracket 261 or on the bottom of an upwardly adjacent one of the rings 263. This snap fit connection, as seen in Figure 55, allows for the rings 263 to be independently rotatable relative to each other.

[00241] Additionally, the walls of the ring 263 include slots 267 on the opposite sides thereof wherein the walls are flexible and allow for the passage of cabling which may be inserted into the slots 267 so as to extend entirely along the vertical length of the wire manager 260. A bottom plug 268 is provided and secured to the bottom most ring 263 by fastener 269.

[00242] Referring to Figure 57, the legs also may be provided with cable management capability. In particular, the leg tube 171 is rigid and is formed with a side mounting slot 270. In Figure 57, a plastic cable manager 271 is provided which has deflectable legs 272 that snap into the slot 270. The wire manager 271 also has outer walls 273 which define cable passages 274 therein that allow for the insertion of cables vertically within such passages 274 to hide same from view.

[00243] As to Figures 58 and 59, the legs 58A as well as the legs 58, may also have a privacy screen 280 provided which is mounted to the legs by mounting clips 281. The mounting clips 281 include connector flanges 282 that lockingly fit into the mounting slot 270 as seen in Figure 59. Also, the clip 281 includes clamping jaws 283 defining an opening 284 that receives an edge of the screen 280 therein, which jaws 283 are then pulled shut by fasteners 285 so that the jaws 283 pinch or grip the edge of the screen 280 and hold same in place in the position illustrated in Figure 58. [00244] As generally illustrated in Figure 29, the ends of the respective rails 177 (178) have an angled or mitered configuration to define a generally right-angle corner joint while the other components are hidden underneath the work top assembly 155. To accomplish this corner connection, Figures 39-43 illustrate the corner connector 179 therein. [00245] This corner connector 179 includes a main body 220 disposed centrally of this connector so as to be disposed intermediate of the mitered ends of the rails 177 and 178. This center body has an outer curved portion 221 which defines the outermost corner part of the work top assembly 155. This center body 220 is further included with two fastener bores 222 extending upwardly therethrough which are adapted to receive a fastener vertically therethrough into fixed engagement with the bottom surface 186 of the table top 156. To join the ends of the rails 177 (178) together, the corner connector 179 also includes rectangular insert projections 223 which project outwardly from the center body 220 at an angle and include fastener holes 224 extending therethrough. These fasteners 224 are adapted to receive fasteners that engage the rails 177 and 178. Specifically, these projections 223 are adapted to fit into the rectangular chambers 194 and 195 within the frame rails. Still further, additional angled projecting inserts 225 project outwardly from the center body 220 and are adapted to fit within the correspondingly shaped frame rail chamber 194. As such, the corner connectors 179 are adapted to join the various frame rails 177 and 178 together and also serve as the mounting blocks by which the entire frame rail assembly 157 is fixedly secured to the work surface 156.

[00246] Next, to connect the leg units 158 and 158A to the work surface assembly 155, this is accomplished through a mounting bracket 172 that is provided on each of the leg units 158 or 158A. The mounting bracket 172, as illustrated in Figures 44-47, includes a main bracket body 230 which has a lower portion 231 configured to be fixedly connected to the upper end of the support post 171.

[00247] To connect the leg unit 158 or 158A to the frame rails 177 and 178, the bracket body 230 includes wing-like outwardly projecting mounting flanges 232 and 233. These mounting flanges 232 and 233 include a pattern of holes therein which allows for mating of the mounting bracket 172 to the fastener slots 183 formed in the frame rails 177 (178) . The patterns comprise first holes 235 and second holes 236 respectively formed in the mounting flanges 232 and 233. As seen in Figures 21B, 25B and 26B, these holes 235 and 236 when positioned in the corner of the work top assembly 155 during the assembly process, overlie and align with the respective fastener slots 183 of the respective frame rails 178 and 177. Thereafter, suitable fasteners 240 are inserted downwardly therethrough into thread engagement with the fastener slots 183 to affix the mounting block 172 in position at the corner. If desired, appropriate caps may be secured in place to cover the heads of the bolts 240. By providing appropriate hole patterns in the other mounting blocks 162, 165 and 169_r these alternate leg units 160, 163, and 168 may also be positioned and affixed to the same frame rail assembly 157. [00248] Additionally, referring to Figures 2A and 2OA, the leg unit 158 is readily adaptable for use with the support of multiple work top assemblies 155. In a group configuration, and specifically, in a plurality of the work top assemblies 155, the work top assemblies 155 are positioned in edgewise relation, parallel to each other to form an enlarged rectangular top surface. To support this group of work top assemblies 155, the leg unit 158 and its mounting bracket 172 may be fixed in position at the four corners of the enlarged work top. To provide support to the interior portions of this table grouping, additional plug units 158 may also be positioned in this interior region (Figure 20A) . In this position, the same mounting bracket 172 may be positioned so as to span a joint 245 between two adjacent work top assemblies 155 and thereby provide a common support to both work top assemblies 155.

[00249] As seen in Figure 2OA, the hole pattern provided in the bracket arms 232 and 233 is configured such that the holes 235 and 236 thereof still align with the fastener slots 183 disposed in this joint spanning orientation. Thus, the same leg unit 158 also is usable on two side-by-side frame rails 178 or any two adjacent frame rails 177.

[00250] Further, the bracket 15 of Figure 19 also connects to the slots 183 by fasteners 240 of the frame rails 177 or even 178.

[00251] With this configuration and accessories, a multi- configuration desking system 14 is provided which allows for ready configuration of the desk and the mounting of leg units thereto while also providing for the ganging of multiple work tops together into an enlarged configuration. This provides an economical desking system construction while also providing flexibility in the configuration thereof. Since the legs may be mounted at any location along the work surface perimeter, the legs may be recessed or set back from the work top edges to create barrier free desks which provide clearance spaces under the desk such as for shared work spaces. Further, the legs may be centered under the desk for unimpeded leg room to permit users to cluster about the desks and work collaboratively.

[00252] Referring to Figures 60-80, the system of storage cabinets 17 is provided which comprises individual storage cabinets 300 having a common cabinet construction which is used to define various configurations for the storage cabinet 300. These storage cabinets are usable either as stand alone cabinets by themselves as seen in Figures IB and 2B. They also may be interconnected to the other systems such as the desk system 14, or may alternatively be joined together so that a plurality of cabinets 300 are joined as a unit for use in an office area 17. [00253] More particularly, Figures 60 and 61 illustrate a cabinet 300 having a tambour door configuration. The cabinet 300 includes an outer housing 301 and an openable door 302 which is lockable through an integrated lock assembly 303 mounted in a top front panel that defines a letter slot and has a changeable color section. The housing 301 has a rectangular box construction defined by opposite side walls 304, back wall 305, a front side 306, which may be closed by the door 302 or even left open as discussed below, and a top wall 307.

[00254] In the pedestal cabinet seen in Figure IB, the cabinet 300 has a front door panel which includes a recessed pull with an interchangeable color insert and an integrated lock. The pull out drawer is like known drawers except that one side wall is omitted to provide an open side to view all of the drawer interior for convenience and allowing for different storage components. For example, the user may choose to have dividers for lateral file storage, or open space for handbags, or smaller storage trays hung from the remaining side wall to store smaller personal items. [00255] As seen in Figure 62A_r the opposite side walls 304 are each provided with a connector slot 308 near the top wall 307. Generally, these slots 308 may include appropriate connector inserts 309 therein as will be described hereinafter. Additionally, the back wall 305 of each cabinet includes its own respective slot 310 which also receives connector inserts 311 (Figure 62A) therein. These inserts 311 join with additional ganging brackets discussed hereinafter so that the cabinets in one configuration may be joined directly together in back-to-back relation as seen in Figure 62B. Alternatively, the side slot 308 may have additional ganging brackets connected thereto to join two cabinets 300 in side- by-side relation as seen in Figure 62C. Figure 62 illustrates the two cabinets just prior to joining with the interconnection therebetween being illustrated further below. [00256] Referring to Figure 63A, the side mounting slot 308 may also be used to support a connector bracket 312 which extends upwardly and has an upper leg 313 that supports a work top assembly by fastening of the top bracket 313 to the mounting slots 183 using the same connector arrangement described above.

[00257] Figure 63B illustrates an alternate arrangement wherein the above described work surface bracket 15 is attached to the inserts 309 located in the side slot 308 with the other leg thereof extending below one of the frame rails 177 or 178. The bracket 15 in turn is fastened to the rail slots 183 by appropriate fasteners which engage the serrated side walls of the slots 183. As such, the cabinet 300 may support the work top assembly 155 in place of or in combination with a leg 58/58A.

[00258] Referring to Figure 64, the cabinet construction generally uses a common frame construction which is readily adaptable to form different size cabinets and to also modify the exterior appearance of the cabinet such as to form a pedestal cabinet with drawers, a tambour door cabinet or an open box-like cabinet while maintaining common aesthetics and functionality. The basic construction of the cabinet uses an internal skeleton frame 315 (Figure 68) which is enclosed by an outer wrapper or shell 316 (Figure^' 69) . As to the cabinet construction, Figures 64-67 illustrates the various components of the tambour door construction. More particularly, to construct the skeleton frame 315, a rectangular rear frame 317 is provided which is partially exposed. When the cabinet is fully assembled, the back frame 317 supports interchangeable back panels 318 therein. The skeleton frame 315 similarly includes a front frame 320 which has a very similar appearance and construction to the back frame 317. The rear and front frames 317 and 320 are joined in forwardly spaced relation by upper and lower connecting rails 321 and 322 to define the hollow box-like configuration shown in Figure 68. The interconnection of these components will be described further below.

[00259] It is noted that after assembly, the front frame 320 and rear frame 317 are exposed about the periphery thereof, while the connectors rails 321 and 322 are hidden within the interior of the cabinet.

[00260] The hollow skeleton frame 315, once construction is completed, is enclosed by the three-sided housing wrapper or shell 316 which comprises side panels 325 and top panel 326. When fully assembled, the side panels 325 and 316 are fully exposed to essentially define the majority of the exposed side walls 304 and top wall 307. The wrapper 316 is formed of any suitable aesthetically pleasing material and desired appearance such that the wrapper 316 primarily defines the exterior appearance of the cabinet 300 by the selection of color and surface texture. The wrapper 316 is made interchangeable separately from the skeleton frame 315 so that the wrapper 316 can be readily changed and varied to any desired aesthetic appearance for the cabinet.

[00261] Also, the wrapper side panels 325 include elongate slots 327 that define the openings into the mounting slots 308 referenced above. These slots 327 generally align with the skeleton connector rails 321 as will be described in further detail herein so that the combination of the slots 327 and rail 321 define the mounting slot 308.

[00262] With this basic frame construction of the skeleton frame 315 and wrapper 316, various internal components may be provided to define the specific type of storage cabinet 300 being constructed.

[00263] Referring to Figure 64, the tambour door construction includes an internal, three-sided wall insert 330 which includes stiffener channels 331 on the sides thereof. The top of the wall insert 330 is enclosed by a top cover 332 as well as a pair of door guides 333 which guide passage of the tambour door 302. A front face plate 335 is provided to support the lock assembly 303 and enclose the upper portion of the cabinet front 306.

[00264] Further, the wall insert 330 has patterns of mounting holes 336 which are vertically spaced apart as seen in Figure 67 and are configured to support a plurality of vertically spaced apart drawer slides 337. Each pair of drawer slides 337 supports a respective drawer 338 wherein a plurality of drawers 338 are provided in vertically stacked relation and selectively closed by the tambour door 302. [00265] Once the cabinet is constructed, the cabinet optionally may include caster units 338 on the bottom thereof which caster units 338 comprise a support rail 339 and individual casters 340. Also, the bottom wall may have slots for divider inserts that store ring binders or for lateral file storage.

[00266] Referring more particularly to the skeleton frame 315, the component parts thereof are disclosed in greater detail in Figures 70-75. The front and rear frames 317 and 320 are formed quite similar to each other such that the discussion of Figures 70-75 is applicable to both of the front and rear frames 317 and 320. While the discussion will reference only frame 317 for convenience, it is understood that the discussion of Figures 70-75 also applies to frame 320. As seen in Figures 70 and 71, the frame 317 comprises top and bottom rails 350 and 351, opposite side rails 352 and 353, upper corner blocks 354 and 355, and bottom corner blocks 356 and 357.

[00267] The corner blocks 354-357 are defined by respective right angle main bodies 358-360 which have front faces 361-364 which are exposed during use. The main bodies 358-360 include alignment blocks 367-370 that are adapted to fit within respective open ends of the horizontal and vertical rails 350- 353. In this manner, the various components are fitted together into the rectangular shape of Figures 70 and 71 and then each corner block is connected to a respective one of the rails by appropriate fasteners 375 (Figure 71) which thread into the open end of a respective rail and has the head of the fastener 375 abutting against the fastener wall 376 that is defined in each of the corner blocks. Hence, a rigid rectangular frame design is provided.

[00268] Further, each of the corner blocks 354-357 includes a respective connector plug or projection 380-383 which each include a pair of fastener bores 384 therein. These projections 380-383 are received in corresponding openings of the top cross rails 321 and bottom cross rails 322 which are shown in Figures 74 and 75. More particularly, the top cross rail 321 is tubular on the top thereof to essentially define open sockets 386 at the opposite ends. The outer wall 387 of the cross rail includes pairs of fastener openings 388 therein which align with the openings 384 of the top corner blocks to join the opposite ends of the cross rails 321 to the top corner blocks of the front and rear frames 317 and 320. [00269] The bottom cross rail 322 shown in Figure 75 also is tubular and defines pockets 389 at the opposite ends which receive the projections 382 and 383 of the bottom corner blocks. The inner wall 390 of the cross rail 322 also includes its own pairs of fastener bores 391 at the opposite ends that similarly align with the bores 384 of the bottom corner blocks. Appropriate fasteners are provided to rigidly join these various components into the skeleton frame shown in Figure 68.

[00270] Notably, the top cross rail 321 of Figure 74 also includes an elongate channel 393 defined by opposite channel walls 394 and 395. This channel 393 aligns with the above discussed slot 327 in the wrapper 316 and cooperates therewith to define the mounting slot 308. Since the wrapper 316 is formed of thin material such as sheet metal, the extruded metal of the rail 321 provides rigidity since the channel walls 394 and 395 are highly rigid and can accommodate the loads resulting from the joining of additional cabinets 300 together side-by-side relation. Preferably, the channel 393 has a semi-circular interior surface. [00271] Referring to Figures 76 and 77A, the rear frame 317 is illustrated with its respective corner blocks 354 and 355 joining the top rail 350 and side rails 352 and 353 together. Figure 77A illustrates the cross-sectional profile of the top rail 350. This rail 350 is shown with the front face 400 thereof extending downwardly and terminating in a semicircular channel 401 that defines the back mounting slot 310. This mounting slot 310 has a narrow mouth which allows for the connector insert 311 to be inserted in a sideward orientation and then rotated to the vertical orientation shown in Figure 77A. This insert 311 includes a fastener bore 402 illustrated in phantom outline for receiving a fastener as will be discussed in further detail hereinafter. The cross rails are all formed from extruded aluminum and as to the top cross rail 350, an open ended interior chamber 403 is formed in which is received one of the corner block projections 367. Also, the top rail 350 includes a fastener bore 404 for fastening the corner blocks to the rail 350.

[00272] Still further, adjacent to the fastener bore 404, an elongate groove 405 is formed for securing the wrapper 316 thereto. In particular, the top panel 326 of the wrapper 316 includes a spring clip 405 that snaps into the groove 405 to positively connect the wrapper thereto. As to all of the horizontal and vertical frame rails of the rear frame 317 and front frame 320, such include similar grooves 405 that engage appropriate spring clips 406 provided along the opposite edges of not only the top wrapper panel 326 but also the side panels 327.

[00273] In this manner, the horizontal and vertical frame rails are joined together wherein the top frame rail 350 includes the mounting slot 310 which is used when ganging two storage cabinets 300 in back-to-back relation. Also, the horizontal and vertical extrusions in the rear frame 317 include an inward opening channel 407 that receives the peripheral edge of the cabinet back panel 318. [00274] With the insert 311 disposed in the mounting slot 310, a rear ganging bracket 410 is provided which is fastened to the insert 311 by the fastener 411. More particularly, Figure 76 illustrates two ganging brackets 410 mounted in position.

[00275] As to Figure 77B, the ganging bracket 410 is seen as having a rear flange 412 that fastens to the insert 311 by the fasteners 411. An outwardly projecting connector flange 413 is provided which has a connector 414 with an arcuate bottom surface 415. This connector hook 414 is thin enough so as to fit within the open side of the mounting slot 410 on the left cabinet 300. Referring to Figure 77C, the connector hook 414 thereby fits into the mounting slot of the left cabinet 300 to join the left and right cabinets together in back-to-back relation as illustrated in Figure 62B.

[00276] Next as to Figures 78A and 78B, the side mounting slot 308 is illustrated as having the insert 309 received therein. This insert 309 may be the same as insert 311 and includes fastener bores 420 therein which are formed the same as' bores 402 described above. The insert 309 also is inserted into the mounting slot 308 in the same manner as the insert 311 inserts into the slot 310.

[00277] To gang two cabinets 300 sidewardly adjacent to each other as seen in Figure 62C, the additional ganging bracket 421 is provided which has a notched side 422 which is configured to fit over and receive the insert 309 therein. The ganging bracket 421 includes fastener bores 423 which allow for the fastener to extend therethrough into threaded engagement with the bores 420. When the bracket 421 is joined to the insert 309, the notched portion 422 is received in the mounting slot 308 as seen in Figure 79A with a hooked portion 424 projecting outwardly therefrom. This hooked portion 424 is adapted to fit into the slot 308 on an adjacent cabinet 300 as illustrated in Figure 78B. Notably, two ganging brackets 421 are engaged with each slot 308. [00278] As to Figures 79A-79C, it is seen that the ganging hook 424 aligns with the open mounting slot 308 on the right cabinet 300 and then extends into and seats therein as seen in Figure 79C.

[00279] As shown in these figures, the top cross rail 321 is more clearly illustrated as including the channel 393 defined by the channel walls 395 and 394.

[00280] As such, the above-described cabinets 300 using this construction of a skeleton frame 315 and interchangeable housing wrapper 316 allows for ready variation of the aesthetic appearance of the cabinet. Further, the side mounting slots 308 and rear mounting slot 310 provide for ready configuration and interconnection of the individual cabinets 300 with other system components. As previously discussed, the cabinets 300 could be positioned in back-to- back relation (Figure 62B) or side-to-side relation (Figure 62C) .

[00281] The above-described inserts 311 and 309 also may be used to connect separate brackets thereto such as brackets 15 and 312 for connection in supporting work surface and desk components .

[00282] Referring to Figure 80, the above-described cabinet construction is also readily modifiable to define other cabinet shapes, sizes and structure. Figure 80, for example, illustrates a cabinet 300A that is formed as an open cabinet which does not include any drawers or doors thereon. [00283] This cabinet 300A uses essentially the same components of a skeleton frame 430 formed from a rear frame 431, front frame 432, top frame rails 433 and bottom frame rails 434. These components are all joined together to define a skeleton frame like frame 315. Additionally, an outer housing wrapper 435 is provided which is the same as wrapper 316 except that it is dimensioned somewhat differently. The wrapper 435 is interchangeable to vary the color and aesthetic appearance of the cabinet 300A. The rear skeleton component 431 also receives a rear panel insert 436 to close off the back side. The front side 437 of the cabinet is open since a wall insert 438 is provided that defines bottom and side walls of the cabinet interior, while a top wall insert 439 is provided to as to overlie and cooperate with the wall insert 438. While drawers and doors could be added to this cabinet construction, such is not necessary. The cabinet 300A is notable in that it is constructed using the basic combination of a skeleton frame and housing wrapper in combination with other components. Further, this cabinet 300A also includes side mounting slots and a rear mounting slot formed the same as those described above.

[00284] While casters could be provided on such cabinet, this cabinet construction includes feet 440 that merely attach to the bottom of the wall insert 438.

[00285] This cabinet system, therefore, provides for an improved cabinet construction which is usable either by itself or the individual units are used alone or ganged together in various configurations. The individual cabinets also are readily connectable and joinable to the other systems described herein. For example, the cabinets 300 could be joined directly to desk top assemblies 155 or could be used to join the cabinets to the power frame or power spine if desired to provide stability thereto.

[00286] Further, the tambour door cabinet preferably has a rear double wall which defines a vertical cable channel to route cabling vertically between the floor and a desk. [00287] Although particular preferred embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in detail for illustrative purposes, it will be recognized that variations or modifications of the disclosed apparatus, including the rearrangement of parts, lie within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A space-dividing frame unit adapted for upright positioning in a work area, said frame comprising: a plurality of extruded frame rails which are joined end- to-end at corner connections to define a hoop-like configuration with an open interior region exposed interiorally of said frame rails, said extruded frame rails comprising interior walls disposed inwardly towards said open interior region, and side walls projecting outwardly of a respective said interior wall to define an outward opening channel extending along the longitudinal length of each said frame rail, said side walls further including exterior mounting slots extending along a length thereof for the mounting of exterior frame components thereto; and a plurality of covers which engage with said frame rails so as to overlie said channels on an outward side of said frame rails, said channels opening one into the other at said corners so as to define a continuous cabling passage extending about the periphery of said frame.

2. The frame unit according to Claim 1, which includes a bracket having a projecting connector which is configured to connect into said exterior mounting slots.

3. The frame unit according to Claim 2, wherein each said interior wall of said frame rails includes an interior side in which is formed at least one fastener slot which faces inwardly towards said open interior region and has serrated wall surfaces to permit the connection of a threaded fastener at any location along the length of said slot, a fastener being engaged between an adjacent leg of said bracket and said fastener slot for affixing said bracket to said frame.

4. The frame panel according to Claim 1, wherein L- shaped corner blocks are provided at said corners wherein each said corner block is engageable with adjacent ends of adjacent said frame rails.

5. The frame unit according to Claim 1, wherein said side walls include additional side wall slots extending along the length of said frame rails, said side wall slots being engageable with said covers for removable engagement of said covers in overlying relation with said channels while said exterior mounting slots for said brackets remain exposed.

6. The frame unit according to Claim 1, wherein said interior walls of said frame rails have fastener slots extending along a length thereof which said fastener slots include serrated side surfaces which are adapted to permit threaded engagement of a fastener into said fastener slots at any location along the longitudinal length thereof.

7. The frame unit according to Claim 6, wherein said fastener slots open outwardly into said channels.

8. The frame unit according to Claim 6, wherein said fastener slots open inwardly into said open interior region.

9. The frame unit according to Claim 1, wherein said frame has one side thereof defined by a plurality of said frame rails which are joined together so as to extend co- linearly with each other, adjacent ends of said interconnected frame rails being joined by a connector bracket which prevents disengagement of said adjacent ends, said interconnected frame rails further including interior passages which extend longitudinally along the length of said frame rails and are adopted to slidably receive a reinforcement bar into said passage of each of said interconnected frame rails to rigidly support said joint between said adjacent ends.

10. The frame unit according to Claim 9, wherein said frame rails include an inward opening edge slot which is adapted to receive respective edges of an interior support panel disposed within said open interior region directly adjacent to said joints to further support the rigidity of said joints.

11. The frame unit according to Claim 1, wherein said interior walls of said frame rails include at least one fastener slot extending along a length thereof which said fastener slot opens inwardly into said channel and is configured to threadedly engage with a fastener that may be positioned at any location along the length of said fastener slot, and an electrical component being positioned within said channel and secured in position by engagement of a fastener with said electrical component and said fastener slot.

12. A desking assembly comprising: a work top assembly comprising a horizontally enlarged work surface and a perimeter frame on which said work surfaces is supported, said perimeter frame comprising a plurality of frame rails extending about the periphery of said work top which are joined at adjacent ends to define corner connections, each said frame rail having a plurality of parallel fastener slots along a longitudinal length thereof which are each adapted to threadedly engage a fastener at any location along said longitudinal length; and a plurality of legs having a vertically elongated support portion and a mounting bracket at an upper end thereof, said mounting bracket being engageable with a plurality of fasteners which engage said bracket and engage a corresponding plurality of said parallel slots of said frame rail to which said leg is attached.

13. The desking assembly according to Claim 12, wherein said fastener slots have serrated side walls which are engageable with said threaded fasteners.

14. The desking assembly according to Claim 13, wherein said frame rails further include a mounting slot extending along a longitudinal length of each said frame rail which is engageable with mounting brackets to which desking components are removably engaged.

15. The desking assembly according to Claim 12, wherein said mounting bracket includes a first flange and a second flange which said first and second flanges are each engageable with a plurality of fasteners such that said first and second flanges may be engaged with a respective one of said frame rails .

16. A desking system according to Claim 15, wherein each of said first and second flanges includes the same pattern of fastener holes through which said fasteners are insertable into threaded engagement with said corresponding plurality of said fastener slots.

17. The desking assembly according to Claim 16, wherein each said bracket is engageable at a corner of one said desking assembly with said first and second flanges overlying respective ones of said frame rails, and said bracket alternatively, may be positioned so as to span a joint between adjacent desking assemblies with said first flange being engaged with one said frame rail on one said desking assembly and said second flange being engageable with said frame rail on a second said desking assembly.

18. The desking assembly according to Claim 17, wherein one said leg supports said adjacent desking assemblies.

19. The desking assembly according to Claim 12, wherein said frame rails are formed as extrusions.

20. The desking assembly according to Claim 19, wherein each of said frame rails has an identical profile.

21. The desking assembly according to Claim 12, wherein corner blocks are provided which are engageable with adjacent ends of said frame rails at said corners to join said frame rails together, said leg bracket being disposed so as to overlie a respective one of said corner blocks when said leg is positioned at one of said corners of said desk top assembly.

23. A storage cabinet comprising: an open internal frame comprising front and rear frames that define the front and rear housing edges, and cross rails extending rearwardly to join the front and rear frames in spaced relation, the frame having a box-like shape open on a plurality of sides; and a housing wrapper which mounts to the internal frame and has opposite side walls and a top wall to close off the opposite sides and top of the internal frame, said side walls and said top wall defining exposed faces of said storage cabinet which enclose said cross rails, with said front and rear frames being exposed and defining exposed edges of said storage cabinet.

24. The storage cabinet according to Claim 23, which includes a back panel mounted to said rear frame to define a back wall of said storage cabinet.

25. The storage cabinet according to Claim 23, wherein said rear frame includes an elongate mounting formation which engages with a connector, which connector is accessible from an exterior of said rear frame for connection to additional furniture components such as another storage cabinet, a desk or a frame unit.

26. The storage cabinet according to Claim 23, wherein said side wall and said internal frame define an elongate mounting formation which engages with a connector, which connector is accessible from an exterior of said rear frame for connection to additional furniture components such as another storage cabinet, or a desk.

27. The storage cabinet according to Claim 26, wherein said rear frame includes an elongate mounting formation which engages with a connector, which connector is accessible from an exterior of said rear frame for connection to additional furniture components such as another storage cabinet, a desk or a frame unit.