US20080315734A1

US20080315734A1 - Office Organization Unit and System

Info

Publication number: US20080315734A1
Application number: US12/126,492
Authority: US
Inventors: Ayse Birsel; Andrew J. Kurrasch; Bibi Seck; James E. Moon, JR.; Paul S. Gartland; Joseph Iacovoni
Original assignee: Herman Miller Inc
Current assignee: MillerKnoll Inc
Priority date: 2007-05-25
Filing date: 2008-05-23
Publication date: 2008-12-25
Also published as: WO2008147996A1

Abstract

An office organization system comprises a plurality of units, each unit including a first, vertically-oriented frame which forms a closed loop, and a second, vertically-oriented frame which is spaced from and congruent with the first frame. Secured to each of the first and second frames is at least one utility member.

Description

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/931,899, filed on May 25, 2007, which is incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an organization system adapted to support a wide variety of configurations, options and accessories in an office environment. More particularly, the present invention relates to an office organization system that complements the interior design of an attractive environment while fulfilling the organizational requirements of a productive work space.
Modern offices often require a variety of functional and customizable furniture units for organization related to the needs of business. From storage shelves and work surfaces to food carts and podiums, any given office space has a variety of functional needs when it comes to organization. It is often the case that one supplier cannot fulfill all of an office's functional needs. As such, there can be a lack of visual continuity when the office organization units come from different suppliers.
From an interior design standpoint, an office environment can benefit from uniformity in design, especially as offices become more open and transparent. In such open environments, it is desirable to maintain visual continuity throughout the space. As such, it is desirable to have an office organization system that can satisfy all of an office's functional needs while maintaining a uniform, attractive environment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect of the present invention, an office organization unit is contemplated including a vertical frame which forms a closed loop, and a second closed loop frame of the same size and shape spaced from the first frame. Secured to the first and second frames is a utility member, such as a shelf, a drawer, or a cabinet.
In another aspect of the present invention, an office organization system is contemplated including a multitude of units with common elements. Included in each unit of the system is a first vertical frame which forms a closed loop and a second closed loop frame of substantially the same size and shape, which second frame is spaced from the first frame. In addition, each unit of the system has at least one utility member secured to the first and second frame.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be more fully understood and further advantages will become apparent when reference is made to the following detailed description of the invention and accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a shelving and drawer unit according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 1B is an exploded perspective view of an office organization unit shown in FIG. 1A according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2A is cross-sectional view along AA of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2B is a plan view looking up from the top of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2C is a side elevation view of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2D is an elevation view of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2E is an exploded perspective view of the shelving connection according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2F is a perspective view of the shelving connection according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2G is an exploded perspective view of the lower portion of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2H is a perspective view of the lower portion of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3A is an elevation view of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3B is an elevation view of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3C is an elevation view of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3D is an elevation view of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3E is an elevation view of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3F is an elevation view of the closed loop frame according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a book cart according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cart according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a book cart with a cabinet according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a beside surface table with drawers according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a cart with drawers according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9A is a perspective view of an equipment wall according to one embodiment of the invention

FIG. 9B is an exploded perspective view of an equipment wall according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a book case according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a book case with drawers according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a locker according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a book case tower with drawers according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a book case tower with drawers and cladding according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an enclosed tower according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a water cooler according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a table with shelving and cabinets according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a table with shelving according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an island according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of corner shelving according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a podium according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of shelving with a backboard according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a projector screen according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of an electronics display according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an easel with shelves according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of an easel with a cabinet according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a collaboration cart according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 28 is a perspective view of embedded technology according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 is a perspective view of a mounting rail according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of an embodiment with a side work surface according to one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the invention, each unit includes at least two closed loop frames. Within the overall system, the size and shape of the frames can vary. However, each unit includes at least two frames that are congruent, i.e. substantially the same size and shape.
Embodiments of the invention can be as simple as a table or a shelf unit. Nevertheless, the preferred system provides many configurations, options and accessories that can be used to create a variety of office organization units. Preferably, a number of these units are used to create an office environment that provides multiple functions to the user.
An advantage of the preferred embodiment is that the frames provide a unifying design detail throughout the system. In particular, the frames preferably include a band portion with an outer surface, at least some of which is visibly exposed. As a result, whether the unit is a low or high shelving unit, a work surface or a cabinet, the visible portion of the frames used to construct these units all carry the same look, a look that ties the units of the system together aesthetically.
Another advantage of the preferred embodiment is interchangeability of the utility members. While the system may employ a variety of shapes and sizes of the frames, it is preferred that at least some of the dimensions are constant within a system. In this way, at least some of the utility members can be substituted, one for the other. For example, an installer, or even a user, could replace a shelf with a drawer slide to add a drawer to the unit. Alternatively, some utility members can simply be added or removed.
FIG. 1A. depicts an office organization unit according to the pre-sent invention. FIG. 1B depicts an exploded view of this same unit. This unit includes two bands of metal, also referred to as rings or closed loop frames 100. These rings or closed loop frames 100 are part of a unifying design detail. While an alternative cross section may be used, a unifying aspect of the invention is that the appearance of the closed loop frames does not vary from frame to frame or from unit to unit.
Preferably, a pair of the closed loop frames in a unit are of identical size and shape, including any attachment features or hardware. In this way, the frames are completely interchangeable, one with the other. Alternatively, the pair of frames may be only similar in size and shape. For example, the frames may look similar, yet they may be “handed,” i.e. not interchangeable from one side of the unit to the other. In such a “handed” embodiment, the frames may have attachment hardware only projecting toward the center of the unit and not toward the outside of the unit. Nevertheless, even in this “handed” embodiment, it is preferable that the visible portion of the frames look similar so as to provide a unifying design detail to the unit.
Preferably, the closed loop frames 100 include various holes, such as those shown at 102, which are configured to accept fasteners, such as those shown at 110. In the preferred embodiment, a common fastener system can secure utility members such as shelves 210, drawer slides 222, top panels 232, and bottom panels 230 to the closed loop frames 100. A common fastener system with similar attachment hardware reduces time and cost in tooling and construction.
In the preferred embodiment, the utility members are secured to the frames with a combination of a post, barrel and spacer. As depicted in FIGS. 2E and 2D, the barrel 2 has an internal thread and the barrel 2 is screwed into the post 4, which has an external thread. As such, a post 4 and a barrel 2 are inserted through a hole 8 in the shelf, as well as the holes 102 in the flanges 104. When the post 4 and barrel 2 are screwed together, they tighten and thus press the utility member, a shelf in this case, securely to the frame 100. The spacer 6 fits around the post 4 and barrel 2, and the spacer 6 goes in between the two flanges 104, as shown in FIG. 2F, to keep the flanges 104 from bending when the post and barrel are screwed together and tightened. In the preferred embodiment, the holes 102 are clearance holes, and are not threaded. In an alternative embodiment, the holes 102 could be threaded for use with alternative threaded fasteners. In the preferred embodiment, the closed loop frames are preferably made from an alloy of aluminum: 6105-T5. This alloy is relatively soft and not well suited for a threaded application.
The organization unit depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B also includes two pieces of cladding 150 and a backing 160. In the preferred embodiment, the cladding 150 is secured to the closed loop frames 100 with clips 112. The cladding 150 can be positioned within the closed loop frame 100. The clips 112 are small, preferably plastic pieces designed to fit tightly over flanges in the cladding and in the closed loop frame. The clips 112 are pushed over a flange on the back of the cladding and one of the inner flanges 104 on the frame. As such, the cladding 150 is held in place within the frame by the frictional forces exerted by the clip 112.
It should be noted that the cladding 150 can be made from a variety of materials. In the preferred embodiment, the cladding is made with a cold rolled steel. In alternative embodiments, the cladding can be made of wood, aluminum or other metals, glass, plastic or fabric. Alternatively, the cladding could simply be covered with a wood veneer, or a fabric. In yet another embodiment, the cladding may include a tack board, a marker board, signage, or an electronic display. The cladding 150 is also available with perforations as shown in FIG. 1A. Alternatively, a customer could order the cladding with custom perforation patterns such as an array of circles. The cladding can also have holes and notches for the addition of accessories. Alternatively, the cladding can be decorative and include a print. In yet other embodiments, the cladding is printed or otherwise made to display a company's logo or at least its corporate colors.
In the preferred embodiment, the outer surface of the closed loop frames is never covered by the cladding. Alternatively, the cladding is configured to cover all or part of the closed loop frame.
In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1A and 1B, the unit includes four support feet 182 or glides which are connected to four base supports 180. In alternative embodiments, the base supports can be secured in a number of ways known to those of skill in the art, such as using clips, fasteners, or seaming them directly to the frames. The unit also includes base support covers 188. In an alternative embodiment, the closed loop frames rest on the ground without such support. In yet another alternative embodiment, the organization unit could have two castors and two support feet such that it can be picked up at the end without castors and rolled to a different location.
Secured to the two closed loop frames 100 are two shelves 210 as well as drawer slides 222. The drawer slides 222 are secured to the closed loop frames 100 with the post and barrel fasteners depicted generally as 110. Drawers 220 can simply be aligned and placed into the drawer slides 222. This embodiment also includes a bottom panel 230, which is secured to the closed loop frames 100 with fasteners 110 in the same way as the shelves 210.
FIG. 2A illustrates a cross-section of the closed loop frame 100 cut along line AA. This cross-section is cut along a plane such that the holes 102 are shown. This cross-section illustrates a preferred embodiment with two inner flanges 104 and two side flanges 106. FIG. 2B illustrates a top view of the closed loop frame 100. FIG. 2C illustrates an elevation view parallel to the plane of the closed loop frame 100. FIG. 2D illustrates an elevation view perpendicular to the plane of the closed loop frame 100. As depicted in FIG. 2D, in this embodiment the closed loop frame 100 is generally rectangular and the inner flanges 104 taper at the corners to create a more rounded geometry.
As depicted in FIG. 2E, the preferred embodiment for a shelf 210 is made from cold rolled steel sheet metal of approximately one thirty-second of an inch. This embodiment of the shelf is bent and then spot welded in the corners to make a hollow rectangular prism, about an inch thick, with an open back. At the bottom of the back of the shelf, the metal is bent down to create a flange 215 where a backing can optionally be secured. This flange 215 preferably has a quarter of an inch diameter hole where the backing can be secured with fasteners, such as a simple nut and bolt or the post and barrel fasteners.
In a preferred embodiment, the shelf 210 has a “stiffener” spot welded underneath the top layer of the hollow shelf 210. This stiffener is a reinforcement of metal material welded down the center of the shelf surface to make it stiffer. The shelf 210 also has a hole 8 where the post 4 and barrel 2 fasteners secure the shelf 210 to the closed loop frame 100.
In the preferred embodiment, to manufacture the closed loop frames 100 the aluminum alloy is extruded in the shape of the cross section illustrated in FIG. 2A. The resulting length of extruded aluminum alloy is then cut to the appropriate length. Next, the corners are notched, i.e. the flanges 104 are preferably cut away at the corners, and the aluminum is bent to make the desired profile, which is substantially rectangular with rounded corners in most embodiments. Essentially, the extruded metal is a closed loop frame in the form of a band with an outer surface and an inner surface. The outer surface is visibly exposed, while the inner surface has at least one flange 104 extending from it towards the inside of the loop. In the preferred embodiment, there are two flanges 104 extending from the inner surface of the closed loop frame. In an alternative embodiment, there may be only one flange with a greater thickness than needed for the two-flange embodiment. In another alternative embodiment, the outer surface may include decorative features such as notches or bumps, which would preferably be uniform across each frame in a system.
The aluminum alloy used for the closed loop frame is generally soft, yet is preferable for its attractiveness and bending ability. It is preferable to have dies on both sides of the frame when bending the extruded metal into the desired shape in order avoid twisting and kinking. After bending, the next step is to machine undesired material off of the aluminum frame to achieve the desired profile such as the one illustrated in FIG. 2D. After the frame is bent, there may be a gap in the loop, which is typically located in the middle of the bottom segment of the loop. While this gap or discontinuity could be left as is, and still be within the scope of the present invention, it is preferred for structural reasons to close or bridge this gap as shown in the Figures. It is noted that the term “closed loop” is not intended to exclude frames having a small gap or discontinuity in the frame.
As depicted in FIGS. 2G and 2H, in the preferred embodiment the gap is secured closed with a steel strap 20 that is bolted through the bottom of the frame with bolts 21. The bolts 21 go through holes labeled 105 and into threaded holes in a steel bar 22 and two steel corner bars 24. The steel bar 22 is placed between the flanges 104 at the bottom segment of the closed loop frame 100, and is secured with four bolts 21. The corner bars 24 go around the corner, and each corner bar 24 is also secured with four bolts 21: two on the bottom segment and two on the side segment. The steel bar 22 and corner bars 24 are thus bolted to the steel strap 20, and together with the rest of the frame, a closed loop is created. The steel bar 22 and corner bars 24 also provide stability and support by sandwiching the aluminum frame with a harder steel, preferably cold rolled steel.
The glide housing or base support 180 is also preferably made of cold rolled steel, and it is preferably welded to the steel strap 20. The base support 180 has a threaded hole 181. In an embodiment using castors, a steel stud is sticking out of the top of the castor and the steel stud is screwed into the threaded hole 181. In an embodiment with a glide or support foot 182, the support foot has a female thread and a steel stud is threaded into the support foot 182. As with the castor, the steel stud coming from the support foot 182 is then threaded into the threaded base support hole 181. Thus, the support foot 182 is secured to the base support 180, which in turn is welded to the steel strap 20, which in turn is bolted to the closed loop frame 100.
FIGS. 3A-F illustrate a number of variations in the closed loop frame 100 geometry that can be utilized in various alternative embodiments. In each of the embodiments depicted in these figures, the cross-section of the closed loop frame is substantially similar to that depicted in FIG. 2A, however, alternative cross-sections are possible.
FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a book cart with angled shelves 212. This embodiment includes two closed loop frames 100, two angled shelves 212, and a bottom panel 230. These angled shelves 212 are secured to the closed loop frames 100 in the same way that regular shelves are secured. It should also be noted that in an alternative embodiment, these angled shelves 212 could be any of a number of shapes adapted to carry and store objects. For example, the shelves could be more U-shaped to better store files as opposed to books. The book cart also includes frame supports 180, frame support covers 188 and castors 190. While this embodiment lacks cladding, an alternative embodiment could have cladding covering the entire closed loop frame, or just a portion of it. Alternatively, cladding may cover any portion of the closed loop frame. Indeed, this is the case for any of the embodiments of the present invention.
FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a cart with an upper work surface 250. This embodiment can be very useful underneath surfaces or beside surfaces, and in the preferred embodiment, it includes castors 190 for easy transport. Alternatively, these embodiments could be equipped with support feet instead of castors. The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 includes two closed loop frames 100, as well as three shelves 210 and an upper work surface 250. In the preferred embodiment, the upper work surface 250 is made of wood.
The embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6 includes two closed loop frames 100, as well as two shelves 210, a cabinet 240 and an upper work surface 250. Beneath the cabinet 240, there is a bottom panel 230. Both of the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6 have cladding 150 on each side. These embodiments have frame support covers 188 and castors 190 on the bottom to support the frames 100. As shown in FIG. 6, the upper work surface 256 is supported by two support posts 256 on each side. In the preferred embodiment, these posts 256 are secured to the upper work surface 250 and the closed loop frames 100 through the holes 102 in the top of the frame. A bolt runs up from the underside of the frame, through the frame, through the support post 256, into a threaded insert embedded within the work surface 250. In a preferred embodiment, the support post is five and one half inches long. The support post is made of aluminum alloy 6063-T5, and it is extruded in the desired shape. In a preferred embodiment, the desired shape is a circular cylinder. In an alternative embodiment, the cabinet doors can be locked with a locking mechanism 33, as illustrated in FIG. 30. In yet another alternative embodiment, the cabinets may include lights 35, preferably LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). The lights may be colored green to indicate that the cabinet door is unlocked and red to indicate the cabinet door is locked.
FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a beside-surface table. This embodiment includes two closed loop frames 100 in the shape illustrated in FIG. 3D, as well as two drawers 220 and an upper work surface 250. This embodiment also has cladding 150 on each side. This embodiment has frame support covers 188 and support feet 182 on the bottom. In a preferred embodiment, the organization unit is tall enough that someone could use the work surface 250 while standing. In an alternative embodiment, this unit can be smaller such that it has use as a bench. Another alternative embodiment contemplates a similar construction with door fronts, but without drawers or shelves, such that the unit becomes a storage trunk that can be opened from the top.
FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a cart. It is similar to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 7, except it lacks a work surface 250 and support feet 182, and the drawers 220 are not as wide. This embodiment has two closed loop frames 100 in the shape illustrated in FIG. 3D. As illustrated in FIG. 8, this embodiment includes cladding 150, two drawers 220, a top panel 232 and a bottom panel 230. In addition, this embodiment is also equipped with castors 190.
FIGS. 9A and 9B illustrate another embodiment of the present invention. This embodiment includes two closed loop frames 100, as well as three drawers 220 and a cabinet 240. The cabinet 240 has two cabinet doors 242, which are secured to the closed loop frames 100 with two hinges 244 per cabinet door 242. The hinges 244 are secured to the cabinet doors 242 with screws. In a preferred embodiment, a rectangular steel tube makes up one component of the hinge. The rectangular steel tube is secured to a bracket with two screws, and the bracket is secured to the frame with post and barrel fasteners. The rectangular steel tube is mechanically secured to the hinge with two screws, while the hinge is secured to the door 242 with two screws. The door has a thickness of one-half inch, and a sheet metal screw is run through the back side. The door is preferably made from a sheet metal. The handles are preferably made from an ABS plastic for this door, as are the handles for the shelves, however one of skill in the art will appreciate that a number of different materials may be used.
In an alternative embodiment, the handle only spans a part of the door and the rest of the door is flat. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the handle portion would only cover the left side of the drawers 220 of FIG. 9A, while the right side would have a simple, flat door front.
A cabinet shelf 246 is secured to the closed loop frame in the same manner as regular shelves 210. The shelves 210, 246 are preferably made from cold rolled steel. It should also be noted that the top panels and bottom panels of the preferred embodiments are also preferably made of cold rolled steel. This embodiment also includes three drawers 220, one shelf 210, cladding 150 on each side and a backing 160. The cladding 150 and backing 160 are secured to the closed loop frames 100 with clips 112. Alternatively, the backing can be secured with fasteners to the shelves. This embodiment has four base supports 180, four support feet 182 and four frame support covers 188. Finally, there is a top panel 232 which creates a surface on the top of the unit and defines the top of the cabinet space. The top panel 232 has holes and is connected to the frames 100 in the same was as the shelves 210, preferably with the post and barrel fasteners and a spacer between the frame's flanges 104.
FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a book case. This embodiment includes two closed loop frames 100 and multiple shelves 210. This embodiment also includes support feet 182, as well as frame supports 180 and frame support covers 188. This embodiment also includes two cross bracing cables 162 in the back for added stability. These cross bracing cables can be secured to the closed loop frames 100, or in a preferred embodiment, they are secured through the holes in the back flange 215 of a shelf 210. This can be done with an eyelet, where a nut and bolt are run through the eyelet and are screwed to the shelf. Alternatively, a specially designed piece of aluminum in the shape of a round cylinder bent in the shape of a Z can be used. This Z bracket would be inserted into the hole in the back shelf flange 215, much like a pin. When tension is put on the Z bracket, it holds the cable 162 in place, unlike a pin which could fall out.
FIG. 11 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a book case with drawers. This embodiment includes two closed loop frames 100, multiple shelves 210 and three drawers 220. This embodiment also includes support feet 182, as well as frame supports 180 and frame support covers 188. This embodiment also includes two cross bracing cables 162 in the back for added stability. There is also partial cladding 150 in this embodiment, on the side of the drawers.
FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a closet or locker. This embodiment includes two closed loop frames 100, cladding 150, a top panel 232 and a backing (not shown). In this embodiment, coat hooks 330 are removably secured to the top panel 232. In alternative embodiments, a coat rack or a hanger rod can be secured between the closed loop frames 100. Alternatively, such a rod could be secured to the cladding. This embodiment is equipped with two doors 166, and one of the doors is equipped with an accessory in the form of a mirror 320. It should be noted that the doors 166 are connected in the same manner as the cabinet doors 242. In addition, this embodiment illustrates another possible accessory on the side in the form of slots 54, which can be used for file organization trays 56.
FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a tower book case with shelves. This embodiment has closed loop frames 100 of the geometry depicted in FIG. 3B. This embodiment includes two closed loop frames 100, two shelves 210, two drawers 220 and a top panel 232. This embodiment also includes support feet 182, as well as frame supports 180 and frame support covers 188. In FIG. 14, cladding 150 is included, whereas there is none in FIG. 13, revealing the drawer slides 222. In a similar alternative embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15, the cladding 150 fills the entire loop of each of the close loop frames 100. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 15, the shelves 210 of FIG. 14 are replaced with a cabinet 240, a cabinet door 242, and two hinges 244.
FIG. 16 illustrates an embodiment similar to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 13-15, except this embodiment is adapted to act as a water cooler and dispenser. This embodiment has two closed loop frames 100, as well as cladding 150 covering the entire loop in both of the frames 100. This embodiment also has a drawer 220 and two shelves 210, as well as a top panel 232. This embodiment is adapted to hold a water cooler 88 or other kind of water dispenser. Also depicted in this embodiment is an accessory in the form of a tack board 80, which can be secured to the cladding 150. In an alternative embodiment, a trash receptacle could be included between the closed loop frames.
FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate similar alternative embodiments with more than two closed loop frames 100. As depicted in FIG. 17, there are three closed loop frames 100, with cladding 150 on the outer ends. Between each of the closed loop frames 100, there is a cabinet 240 with two cabinet doors 242, and four hinges 244. Below each cabinet, there is a bottom panel 230. Above each cabinet 240 there are two shelves 210. Above all three of the closed loop frames 100 is a work surface 250. The work surface 250 is secured to each frame with two support posts 256 per frame 100. In an alternative embodiment, there are no support posts connected to the middle frame and the work surface 250 is only connected to the outer most frames. Each closed loop frame 100 is supported with two support feet 182 at the bottom. In an alternative embodiment, a desk or table is contemplated where the only utility member secured to the closed loop frames is the work surface.
FIG. 18 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention with three closed loop frames 100. Between each frame 100 there are three shelves 210. At the middle closed loop frame, the two, parallel shelves 210 can be secured to the middle closed loop frame with one set of post and barrel fasteners. In addition, the flanges 104 are preferably separated by five eighths of an inch, and as such, there is a space between the shelves 210 of about five eighths of an inch. This space can be filled with a filler that can be a formed piece made of cold rolled steel sheet metal. Alternatively, the filler can be a plastic extrusion piece. The upper work surface 258 has two handle openings 259 at opposite ends, and the upper work surface 258 is also curved upwards at the ends. In the preferred embodiment, the upper work surface 258 is made out of wood without handle openings. In an alternative embodiment with at least two castors, the handle openings 259 help the user to lift an end of the unit and roll the unit to a different location. The upper work surface 258 is supported by the support handles 255, which may be seamed to the frames 100, or alternatively secured with fasteners or extruded as part of the frame itself. In a preferred embodiment, the support handles 255 can be replaced with support posts as seen in other embodiments.
FIG. 19 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention that is very similar to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 17. In FIG. 19, the work surface 250 has the same length, but is twice the width. Below the work surface 250, there are two separate embodiments, back-to-back, that are identical to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 17, except for the work surface 250. Of course, in alternative embodiments, a wide variety of functional units such as the shelves and drawers can be secured between the closed loop frames 100. In FIG. 19, the work surface is secured to the closed loop frames 100 with two support posts 256 per closed loop frame 100. In alternative embodiments, the work surface 250 is not supported by support posts from the middle frames.
In an alternative embodiment illustrated in FIG. 30, a work surface 250 extends outside of the closed loop frames 100 to create a side work surface 251. The side work surface 251 is at a height where someone could comfortably work while sitting on a chair with their knees bent at approximately ninety degrees. The side work surface 251 is connected to the first work surface 250, and in this embodiment the side work surface 251 and the work surface 250 are made from one piece. In addition, the side work surface 251 is supported on the opposite side with at least one pedestal 262. Alternatively, the side work surface 251 could be made of a separate piece from the work surface 250, and the side work surface 251 could be connected to the closed loop frame 100.
In alternative embodiments, instead of creating a unit with twice the width as in FIG. 19, two units may be stacked on top of each other to create a piece with twice the height. A typical example of this would be a desk with a hutch on top. In such an embodiment, it would be preferable if the top unit was the same width as the bottom unit.
FIG. 20 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention that enables continuous shelving to fit within angled corners. In this embodiment, there are two closed loop frames 100, as well as three angled shelves 218. These shelves are secured to the closed loop frames 100 in the same way as the regular shelves 212. The angled shelves 218 in this embodiment enable the shelves to be secured to the closed loop frames 100 in such a way that the plane of the frames are perpendicular rather than parallel. In alternative embodiments, the angled shelves 218 can be cut so that the resulting shelving unit fits any uniquely angled corner, not just the typical right angled corner.
FIG. 21 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention in the form of a podium. This embodiment includes two closed loop frames 100, as well as cladding 150 on both sides, and a backing 160. This embodiment also has a drawer 220, and two shelves 210, 211. The shelf shown at 211 is extended outward slightly to enable placement of books or papers for a reader. This embodiment also has an upper work surface 250, which is supported by two support handles 255. In an alternative embodiment, the work surface 250 can be supported by support posts. In a preferred embodiment, the rear support posts are longer than the front support posts, thus giving the work surface a slope towards the speaker. This preferred embodiment is also supplied with a lamp 90.
FIG. 22 is structurally similar to FIG. 5, however, the embodiment depicted in FIG. 22 illustrates a plurality of possible accessories that can be added to most embodiments. For example, netting 50 is shown at the bottom of the cladding 150 of one embodiment. The netting 50 can be used to store and organize a multitude of smaller objects around the office. In another example of accessory possibilities, the back board 270 can be secured to the work surface 250 with binders 260. Each binder is secured to the work surface 250 with a c-clamp where the “C” straddles the thickness of the work surface and a screw from the bottom screws up until it touches the work surface, much like a vice. The back board 270 sits into a receiver in the binder device. Preferably, the back board is squeezed into the clamp's receiver. The clamp has two opposing rubber surfaces and when the backboard is pushed into the clamp, it is held in place by friction. Thus, if desired, a user could change the back board from a tack board embodiment to a marker board embodiment. The back board 270 depicted in this embodiment is made of half tack board 70 and half marker board 72. This marker board 72 could be a chalk board or a dry erase white board, as is depicted in the preferred embodiment. In an alternative embodiment, the back board 270 could simply be made of wood or plastic and covered with cloth to act as a space divider.
An additional accessory may be added in the form of lighting (not shown) underneath the work surface 250 and shelves 210 of FIG. 22. This lighting can be neon lights or an array of LED lights, and they can be attached to the bottom of the surface above to illuminate the shelf below. In alternative embodiments, these lights can be activated by motion sensors, or they can be turned on or off with a switch. In one embodiment, the switch may be embedded in the closed loop frame.
Another example of an accessory is depicted in the form of a horizontal mounting rail 60. The mounting rail 60 can be used for a variety of purposes such as holding clothing, plants, or anything with a strap. As shown in FIG. 29, the preferred embodiment of the mounting rail 60 hooks on the outside of the ring 100 and is held in place by frictional forces. The rail 60 is removable, and to remove it, the user simply lifts the rail upwards to rotate the rail thus creating space and relieving the frictional forces.
FIG. 23 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a projection screen display. This embodiment has two closed loop frames 100 and cladding 150 on each side, as well as two shelves 210 and a top panel 232. It also has a projection screen 300 which can display the images projected from a projector 302. In an alternative embodiment, a projector arm may be attached to the frame 100. This embodiment is supported on the bottom with four castors 190. In addition, this embodiment is equipped with a power outlet 50 and hooks 52 to hold extra wiring, phone cords, or extension cords. In a similar embodiment illustrated in FIG. 24, the projection screen is replaced with an electronic display 310, such as a plasma television or a computer monitor. The electronic display 310 fits upon a shelf 210. In this embodiment, there is a drawer 220, as well as two transparent lift gates 214, 216, which enable the user to attractively store and lock the electronics contained within. In an alternative embodiment, the lift gates 214, 216 are made of opaque material.
FIG. 27 illustrates an embodiment of the present invention in the form of a collaboration cart. In this embodiment, there is a cabinet 240 in the lower section. In this embodiment, the closed loop frames 100 are shaped as illustrated in FIG. 3E. In the preferred embodiment, a large flat-screen television is mounted to the frames 100 to enable users to have video conferencing or to use the screen for a presentation. In alternative embodiments, horizontal brackets (not shown) can be secured between the frames for additional support and stability. In yet another alternative embodiment, using a similar frame shape, a chair is contemplated such that a fabric is secured between the tallest parts of the frames to become the chair's back. The chair may have potential storage capabilities, and the user would sit on top of what is a cabinet in the preferred embodiment.
FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate an embodiment of the present invention in the form of an easel. This embodiment has closed loop frames 100 in the shape illustrated in FIG. 3F. As depicted in FIG. 26, at the base of this embodiment, there is cladding on the sides 150, as well as a cabinet 240, with two cabinet doors 242, and four hinges 244. Above the cabinet 240 is a shelf 210. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 25, this embodiment can simply have two shelves 210 at its base and no cladding. This embodiment also contains a tilted front work surface 252 and a tilted back work surface 254, both of which can be used as an easel. Indeed, paper or other mediums can be secured to the work surfaces 252, 254 by the hooks 258 at the top of the surfaces. In alternative embodiments, the angles of the front and back tilted work surfaces can be customized. The work surfaces 252, 254 are preferably secured to the closed loop frames 100 with bolts, which can be threaded through the embedded threaded holes in the work surface 250. This embodiment also has an upper panel 234, which is also secured to the frames 100 with fasteners 110. At the bottom, the frames 100 are supported with four castors 190. Of course, in alternative embodiments, these can be replaced with foot supports.
FIG. 28 illustrates an embodiment of the closed loop frame 100 with various additional embedded features. In this embodiment, there is a power outlet 50, as well as on/off switches 40 and additional buttons 44 for such purposes as controlling the volume on speakers or controlling the lighting for certain work spaces. Also depicted in this embodiment is an accessory in the form of an antenna 42. This antenna 42 can be used for purposes such as sending or receiving wireless communications, or it could be as simple as a radio antenna. This embodiment also contains embedded wiring within the frame itself, which can be useful, for example, for the on/off or volume switches. In an alternative embodiment, the closed loop frame can include embedded wiring for telephone equipment and a telephone can be secured to the frame.
As is evident from the many embodiments depicted in the accompanying figures and described above, the present invention provides a system from which a wide variety of office organization units can be selected. Each unit is constructed with at least a pair of congruent, closed loop frames. Several different utility members may be attached to these frames. The closed loop frames in this system provide, not only a common structural unit across the various units, but a common design feature that ties the units together aesthetically within the system. In particular, even though some units may have different dimensions; for example, a tall shelf, a work surface and a low shelf; these units are tied together visually by the appearance of the exposed surface of the frames.
To construct a work space from the system, one would start by choosing what office organization units are desired. For example, one may chose a work surface, a shelving unit and a cabinet. The shapes and sizes of the frames are then chosen to produce these units. The utility members that will make up these units are then chosen. The utility members are attached to the frames. Any desired cladding or accessories are attached to the units.
Depending on the height and arrangement of the various units chosen for the work space, these may be arranged so as to define the actual work space and to provide visual privacy to the occupant of the work space. If the units are tall enough, the visual privacy may be that referred to as “standing privacy.” Alternative, the visual privacy may only be “seated privacy.”
It should be noted that, although specific, preferred, and alternative embodiments have been depicted and described, these are to be taken as illustrative and exemplary. It is the appended claims, including all equivalents, that are intended to define the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. An office organization unit comprising:

a first, vertically-oriented frame which forms a closed loop;

a second, vertically-oriented frame, spaced from and congruent with the first frame;

at least one utility member secured to the first and second frames.

2. The unit of claim 1 wherein the at least one utility member is selected from the group consisting of: drawers, shelves, work surfaces, cabinets, hanging rods, coat racks, water coolers, tack boards, easels, trash receptacles, electronic displays, projection screens, marker boards, signs and space dividers.

3. The unit of claim 2 wherein at least two of the utility members from the group have similar dimensions and attachment hardware so as to be interchangeable with each other.

4. The unit of claim 1 further comprising a third vertically-oriented frame, spaced from and congruent with the second frame, wherein at least one utility member is secured to the first and second frames, and at least one utility member is secured to the second and third frames.

5. The unit of claim 1 further comprising a third vertically-oriented frame, spaced from and congruent with the second frame, wherein the at least one utility member is secured to the first, second and third frames.

6. The unit of claim 5 wherein the at least one utility member is a shelf.

7. The unit of claim 4 wherein at least one additional utility member is secured to the second and third frames.

8. The unit of claim 1 wherein the frames are visibly exposed.

9. The unit of claim 1 wherein the first frame comprises a wheel secured to its bottom.

10. The unit of claim 1 wherein the first and second frames each comprise two wheels secured to their bottoms.

11. The unit of claim 1 wherein the first frame comprises a support foot secured to its bottom.

12. The unit of claim 1 further comprising cladding secured to the first frame so as to cover at least a major portion of the area inside the loop of the first frame.

13. The unit of claim 12 wherein substantially all of the area inside the loop of the first frame is covered by the cladding.

14. The unit of claim 13 wherein at least the peripheral portion of the frame is visibly exposed.

15. The unit of claim 12 wherein the entire first frame is covered by the cladding.

16. The unit of claim 12 wherein the cladding comprises sheet metal, wood, glass, plastic, or fabric.

17. The unit of claim 12 wherein the cladding comprises signage, a tackable portion, a marker board or an electronic display.

18. The unit of claim of claim 12 wherein the cladding comprises attachment features for attaching work tools.

19. The unit of claim 1 wherein the frames contain embedded wiring.

20. The unit of claim 1 wherein the frame members contain at least one component of embedded technology selected from the group consisting of: a power outlet, a wireless internet router, an on-off switch, an antenna, a speaker, a volume control, telephone equipment, an RFID tag, and lighting.

21. The unit of claim 1 wherein at least one functional object is attached to the unit, the functional object selected from the group consisting of: a trash receptacle, a storage bin, a mirror, a light, a projector arm, a book display, a spill net, a tack board, a pencil cup, a vase, a hook and a recharging plate.

22. The unit of claim 1 further comprising a third frame member forming a closed loop and vertically stacked on top of the first frame member.

23. The unit of claim 1 wherein the utility members are modular pieces which can be interchangeable.

24. The unit of claim 1 wherein the at least one utility member has a shape such that, when secured to the first and second frames, the first and second frames are not parallel.

25. The unit of claim 24 wherein the first and second frames are perpendicular.

26. The unit of claim 1 wherein each of the first and second frames comprises a band portion with an inner surface and an outer surface, at least some of which outer surface is visibly exposed.

27. The unit of claim 26 wherein the outer surface comprises at least one decorative feature.

28. The unit of claim 26 wherein each of the first and second frames comprises a first flange on the inner surface of the band portion, and wherein said at least one utility member is secured to said first flange.

29. The unit of claim 28 wherein each of the first and second frames comprises a second flange on the inner surface of the band portion, the second flange being spaced from and parallel to the first flange.

30. The unit of claim 29 wherein the first and second flanges comprise holes for securing utility members.

31. An office organization system comprising a plurality of units, each unit comprising:

a first, vertically-oriented frame which forms a closed loop;

at least one utility member secured to the first and second frames.

32. The system of claim 31 wherein the at least one utility member is selected from the group consisting of: drawers, shelves, work surfaces, cabinets, hanging rods, coat racks, water coolers, tack boards, easels, trash receptacles, electronic displays, projection screens, marker boards, signs and space dividers.

33. The system of 32 wherein each of the frames in the units comprises an exposed surface, and wherein the exposed surface is uniform between all of the frames, thereby providing a common design detail between all of the units.

34. The system of claim 33 wherein at least two of the utility members from the group have similar dimensions and attachment hardware so as to be interchangeable with each other.

35. The system of claim 32 wherein the system comprises at least two units, one of which comprises a shelf, the other of which comprises a work surface.

36. The system of claim 35 wherein at least one of the two units further comprises a cabinet.

37. The system of claim 35 wherein at least one of the two units further comprises a drawer.

38. A method for assembling an office organization unit comprising:

securing a utility member to a first, vertically-oriented closed loop frame;

securing the utility member to a second, vertically-oriented closed loop frame spaced from and congruent with the first frame.

39. A method of assembling a work space comprising:

selecting at least two pairs of vertically-oriented closed loop frames;

selecting at least two utility members;

attaching at least one utility member to both frames in each pair to create at least two office organization units; and

arranging the at least two office organization units to form a work space.

40. The unit of claim 2 further comprising lighting underneath at least one utility member.

41. The unit of claim 40 wherein the lighting underneath the at least one utility member is activated by a motion sensor.

42. The unit of claim 2 wherein a cabinet or drawer can be locked.

43. The unit of claim 42 wherein said cabinet or drawer includes a green light to indicate an unlocked position and a red light to indicate a locked position.

44. The unit of claim 2 wherein a side work surface is secured to the side one of the closed loop frames, said side work surface supported on the side opposite the closed loop frame by a pedestal.