Patent Application
20070017172
Not applicable.
Not applicable.
1. Field of the Invention
The invention relates to systems for providing vertically disposed space division and, more particularly, to a flexible system which employs lightweight and rapidly reconfigurable elements with internal stretch characteristics, and with means for providing power distribution, interconnection to and integration of functional components, data storage and control of components through digital programming.
2. Background Art
Building infrastructure, architectural interiors and space division continue to evolve in today's commercial, industrial, office and residential environments. For purposes of the description in this specification, the term “architectural interiors” shall be used to collectively designate the same. Historically, and particularly beginning with the industrial revolution, architectural interiors in the form of space division often consisted of large rooms with fixed walls, ceilings and doors. “Partitions” were only in the form of load-bearing and stationary walls. Interiors would often include large and heavy desks, worktables, machinery, assembly lines or the like, depending upon the particular environment. Lighting, heating and cooling (if any) functions were often centrally controlled. With the exception of executive offices, privacy for face-to-face or telephone conversations, meetings or other activities was difficult to achieve. To accomplish such privacy required additional fixed and costly room architecture. Of course, until the past several decades, and with the exception of telephones and typewriters, there was no need to configure architectural interiors or furniture to facilitate usage of other office equipment, such as computers, copying and facsimile machines. In general, occupants of such architectural interiors had no significant control over their individual environments. This was not only true with respect to locations of partitions or space dividers, but also with respect to lighting, heating and the like. Any reconfiguration of an architectural interior was a significant undertaking.
During the middle of the Twentieth century, architectural interiors began to see somewhat of a more “sophisticated” approach to flexibility. In part, this was caused by equipment automation, with the advent of electronic copy machines, teletypes, electric typewriters and the like. The architectural interiors needed to take into account greater needs for electrical power and configurations for supplying power to appropriate locations. Also, “shared” equipment, such as copy machines and teletypes, required consideration of centralized locations (and “common space”) and high voltage power supplies. Such automated equipment, and the physical locations of the same, required configurations for supplying power to interior sites. Accordingly, additional development work was performed regarding moving power from exterior supplies into locations other than merely along outer load-bearing walls. Although building owners and tenants began to concern themselves with the foregoing, architectural interiors still typically involved very heavy and relatively “stationary” furniture.
With respect to space division, additional work was performed regarding physical space dividers. For example, work was undertaken with respect to forming space dividers or partitions in the form of stud walls, steel frames and the like. However, such space dividers still were typically relatively fixed with respect to physical locations, heavy, costly and difficult to move.
Also during this time, thought was being given to environmental concerns in architectural interiors, such as appropriate air ventilation and the like. New developments occurred in design of ductwork and the like, for bringing HVAC equipment and functions into interior sites. However, such HVAC equipment, as well as lighting and other environmental characteristics, continued to be controlled through central and often remote locations.
A further advance in architectural interiors began in the 1960's. Several furniture makers began work on office furniture systems having partitions or space dividers which provided at least a minimum level of individual privacy, and defined an individual's “workspace.” Some of these space dividers were designed to provide electrical power (interconnected to the building's common power supplies) located at an occupant's workspace. Hanging and supporting bracket structures were developed to provide means for interconnecting furniture accessories (such as shelving, cabinets and work surfaces) to stationary walls or to the space dividers themselves. As these systems evolved, they included arrangements for use with specific utilitarian elements, such as computer stands, keyboard drawers and the like.
In general, these types of systems as developed over the past several decades can be somewhat characterized as permitting “partial” rearrangement of architectural interiors, and somewhat of an advancement in organizing interior space. Although the term “modular” is sometimes used to describe these types of systems, they did not fit within the true definition of a modular system. Instead, these systems are inherently “closed systems,” and are limited to finite sets of interchangeable physical parts.
With respect to all of the known space division systems, each suffers from a number of various disadvantages. For example, many of the architectural interiors in existence today actually result in an “overperformance.” That is, they have weight, bulk and other size parameters which are clearly unnecessary for their desired functionality. Their cost is significant. This cost occurs not only from initial acquisition prices, but also, as a result of their lack of true flexibility, from costs associated with moving or reconfiguring the interiors. Also, in part, additional costs result from the fact that reconfiguration of such systems often results in wastes of component parts. In this same regard, many component parts of known systems are not reusable when disassembled.
Still further, known space division systems for many reasons (including those previously stated herein), do not lend themselves to any type of “rapid” reconfiguration. In fact, they may require a significant amount of work to reconfigure. This work often requires use of trained specialists. Also, reconfiguration of known space division systems may involve additional physical wiring or substantial rewiring. Different trained specialists may be required when the reconfiguration in any manner involves such electrical or data/communications components. Still further, although these systems may involve lighting controllable by a workspace user, many environmental functions remain centrally controlled, often in locations substantially remote from the architectural interior being controlled.
Other disadvantages also exist with respect to these known systems. For example, space dividers in use today are often “ground-based,” meaning that they are supported and extend upwardly from floor structures. Many of these configurations are limited in height, and do not particularly lend themselves to visual privacy. Also, as a result of the lack of flexibility and inherent problems with reconfiguration, known systems do not facilitate reconfiguration of space divider groupings, for purposes of individual privacy, collaboration and other “interaction” characteristics.
As earlier mentioned, known space division systems still do not particularly assist in providing an occupant's control of his or her own environmental conditions. Even further, however, difficulties can arise in known space division systems when environmental characteristic control is provided within a general space of an occupant. For example, lighting associated with an occupant's usage area may be controlled by a switch which is initially relatively close in proximity and readily accessible. However, if this interior space is reconfigured in any substantial manner, the switch controlling the lighting may no longer be accessible or otherwise located in a functionally “correct” position. In this regard, known systems have no capability of providing any relatively rapid reconfiguration of controlling/controlled relationships among functional elements, such as switches, task lights, data terminals and the like. Also, to the extent these relationships are reconfigured, substantial rewiring by personnel having significant technical expertise will be required.
Another significant disadvantage with known space divider systems relates to their lack of development in light of advances in technology. However, many of these technological advances have modified today's business, educational and personal work practices. Two examples of relatively recent technological advances consist of the semiconductor revolution and the corresponding miniaturization of numerous electrical and data/communications components. Today, the work practices of many individuals involve the use of laptop computers and other portable, electronic devices. Many of these devices have the capability of operating on DC power. However, most of today's space division systems do not provide for availability of such power. In addition, known systems do not provide any other features which will facilitate efficiency in today's new work practices, such as ready access to data storage and the like.
The foregoing is only a brief description of some of the disadvantages associated with current development in architectural interiors and space division systems. In part, disadvantages exist because of today's business practices. The following paragraphs briefly describe other aspects of today's activities in the areas of architecture and design, and why the foregoing disadvantages of known systems are becoming even more important.
In the past, problems associated with difficulty in reconfiguration of architectural interiors, and lack of in situ control of a location's environmental conditions, may not have been of primary concern. However, today's business climate often involves relatively “fast changing” architectural interior needs. Architectural interiors may be structurally designed by designers, architects and engineers, and initially laid out in a desired format with respect to lighting fixtures, switches, data lines, and other functional accessories. However, when these structures, which can be characterized as somewhat “permanent” in most buildings (as described in previous paragraphs herein), are designed, the actual occupants may not move into the building for several years. Designers need to “anticipate” the needs of future occupants of the building being designed. Needless to say, in situations where the building will not be commissioned for several years after the design phase, the architectural interior of the building may not be appropriately laid out for the actual occupants. That is, the prospective tenants' needs may be substantially different from the designers' anticipated ideas and concepts. However, as previously described herein, most architectural interiors permit little reconfiguration after completion of the initial design. Reconfiguring of structures in accordance with the needs of a particular tenant can be extremely expensive and time consuming. During structural modifications, the architectural interior is essentially “down” and provides no positive cash flow to the buildings' owners.
It would be advantageous to always have the occupants' activities and needs “drive” the structure and function of the architectural interior layout. To date, however, many relatively “stationary” (in function and structure) interiors essentially operate in reverse. That is, it is not uncommon for prospective tenants to evaluate a building's architectural interiors and determine how to “fit” their needs (workspaces, conference rooms, lighting, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (“HVAC”) requirements and the like) into the existing architectural interiors.
Still further, and again in today's business climate, a prospective occupant may have had an opportunity to be involved in the design of a building's architectural interior, so that the interior is advantageously “set up” for the occupant. However, many business organizations today experience relatively rapid changes in growth, both positively and negatively. When these changes occur, again it may be difficult to appropriately modify the architectural interior so as to permit the occupant to expand beyond its original architectural interior or, alternatively, be reduced in size such that unused space can be occupied by another tenant.
The foregoing paragraphs describe reconfiguration as a result of delay time between original design and the time when users actually occupy space, as well as situations where reconfiguration is required as a result of a business organization's growth or other “external” conditions requiring reconfiguration. In addition, it would also be advantageous to reconfigure architectural interiors substantially on a “real time” basis, where the needs of the occupants change almost instantaneously. That is, the time period required for reconfiguration need not be of any substantial length of otherwise involve changes in a business climate for a particular occupant.
As an example, it may be advantageous for the occupant of a particular architectural interior to have a specific layout during morning and evening hours, while having a revised layout during mid-day hours. This could occur, for example, in an educational learning center, where usage of the architectural interior by students may change, for example, from primarily “individual” usage in the morning and evening hours, to joint projects and meeting activities requiring collaborative usage during mid-day hours. For such usage, it may be particularly advantageous to have the capability of rapidly modifying interconnections of individual space dividers, providing projection services, and facilitating relocation of laptops, task lighting and the like.
Other problems also exist with respect to the layout and organization of today's architectural interiors. For example, and as earlier described herein, accessories such as switches and lights may be relatively “set” with regard to locations and particular controlling relationships between such switches and lights. That is, one or more particular switches may control one or more particular lights. To modify these control relationships in most architectural interiors requires significant efforts. In this regard, a architectural interior can be characterized as being “delivered” to original occupants in a particular “initial state.” This initial state is defined by not only the physical locations of functional accessories, but also the control relationships among switches, lights and the like. It would be advantageous to provide means for essentially “changing” the relationships in a relatively rapid manner, without requiring physical rewiring or similar activities. In addition, it would also be advantageous to have the capability of modifying physical locations of various functional accessories, without requiring additional electrical wiring, substantial assembly or disassembly of component parts, or the like. Still further, it would be advantageous if users of a particular area could effect control relationships among functional accessories and other utilitarian elements at the location of the architectural interior itself.
Various types of space division systems are known in the prior art. For example, Roberts, U.S. Pat. No. 5,274,970 issued Jan. 4, 1994, discloses a freestanding space division system having upstanding posts for resting on the floor. At least one rail assembly is extended between adjacent posts and spaced from the floor. Saddles hang from the rail assembly, and trays are suspended from the saddles so as to form raceways. Vertical pole assemblies are detachably mounted to each post and extend “axially” so that a pair of adjacent pole assemblies on a rail can define a panel receiving space.
Goodman, et al, U.S. Pat. No. 6,047,508 issued Apr. 11, 2000, discloses a wall panel space division system having a movable panel with a rigid frame. A core panel is mounted in the frame, and at least one cover panel is detachably mounted on the frame and encloses an associated portion. The frame has at least one vertical stile with first and second channels that extend longitudinally therealong. The stiles are shaped to receive utilities through outwardly opening sides. The outwardly opening sides of the panels are juxtaposed in opposing directions, so as to facilitate routing utilities along both faces of the panel. A variable height frame support may be positioned between the top of the panel and the building ceiling for floor-to-ceiling applications.
In accordance with the invention, a space division system is adapted for use with a supporting infrastructure. The supporting infrastructure provides for distribution of electrical and communication signals. Specifically, the space division system includes a number vertically disclosed partitions. Support means are coupled to the supporting infrastructure and to the partitions for movably supporting the partitions from the supporting infrastructure. Means are also provided for relocating the partitions at selected locations relative to the infrastructures. Means are also provided for effecting a plurality of spatial configurations among the partitions.
The plurality of configurations may include a plurality of the partitions having a curvilinear structure. The supporting means may be adjustable in a manner so that a height of at least a subset of the plurality of petitions may be adjustable. At least one of the plurality of petitions may comprise an upper structural batten. A main body extends downwardly from the structural batten, and the main body is constructed of a fabric which is substantially opaque. The partitions include at least one space divider having a lower hemmed section with a weighted insert. The partitions can also include at least one space divider having a hook configuration. Still further, the partitions can include at least one space divider having a configuration with a series of S-shaped curvatures. The S-shaped curvatures form partially enclosed workstations.
The partitions can also include at least one space divider consisting of a translucent and stretchable material. The partitions may also include at least one space divider consisting of a pre-woven material. The pre-woven material may consist of a cattle mattress material.
At least one of the space dividers may have a weighted insert consisting of a tubular section fitted within a lower hem of at least one partition. The tubular section may be filled with sand. The tubular section may also be a flexible sheath consisting of rubber. The weighted insert can include an end cap interconnected to a cooperating means of another weighted insert associated with an adjacent space divider.
Adjacent ones of the partitions may be releasably coupled together through a quick release and quick connect mechanism. The mechanism may include spring clips.
At least one of the partitions may include a space divider consisting of three-dimensional translucent material. In accordance with another aspect of the invention, a space divider may be structured in a flutter form configuration. Still further, at least one of the partitions may include a space divider having a quad-pole configuration. Still further, at least one of the partitions may include a space divider having a tri-pole configuration.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the space division system may include electrical and communication connection means associated with at least a subset of the partitions. In this manner, electrical and communication signals may be transmitted and/or received from the supporting infrastructure. Accordingly, electrical and communication signals may be applied to functional accessories releasably coupled to the subset of the partitions.
The subset of the partitions may include main bodies having lighting means embedded within the main bodies, in a manner so as to be visible to a person substantially adjacent the space dividers. The lighting means may include solid state lighting technology. More specifically, the solid state lighting technology may include a plurality of LED lights. Still further, the solid state lighting technology may include arrow lighting positioned adjacent a lower portion of the main bodies. The space division system may also include means for simultaneously activating all arrow lights of the arrow lighting or, alternatively, activating the arrow lights in a manner so that the lights are sequentially pulsed, so as to create an effective “pointing” in a particular direction.
The connection means may include means for interconnecting telephone apparatus to communication signaling of the supporting infrastructure. The subset of the partitions may comprise space dividers having power battens positioned at a top portion thereof, for purposes of carrying power. The power may include both low voltage DC and AC power.
With respect to the battens, the power battens may have openings accessible to internal linear voids existing within knitting of the main bodies. Power cables may be extended within the voids. A subset of the partitions may include space dividers consisting of structural battens at the top ends thereof. Fabric may extend downwardly therefrom, and linear voids may be formed within the fabric, at spaced apart intervals downwardly along the space dividers. In addition, the subset of the partitions may include space dividers having power battens extending downwardly so as to form end hems of the sections. Low voltage DC power strips and/or communication cables may extend through the power battens. The power battens may be formed by taking sections of the space dividers and turning them rearward upon themselves. Ends of the space dividers may then be connected to other portions of the space dividers through the use of releasable securing means.
The subset of the partitions may include space dividers formed of translucent material, with communication cables extending through pre-woven pockets of the translucent space dividers. The subset of the partitions may include space dividers having a plurality of internal linear voids. Linear LED lighting strips may be inserted through the voids. The internal linear voids may be horizontally located within the space dividers, and further carry power cables and communication cables.
The LED lighting strips may comprise linear flex side lighting strips. Correspondingly, the space dividers may include global communications interconnections. Still further, the space dividers may include a second set of LED lighting strips turned in a different direction from the original LED lighting strips. In this regard, actual light intensity and light diffusion at opposing surfaces of the space dividers may differ depending upon the particular sections. The linear voids may carry LED lighting strips having a substantially flat configuration. The LED lighting strips may have particular light intensity and light dispersion as viewed on one surface of the space divider, while a relatively opaque view is produced on an opposing surface of the space divider. The subset of the partitions may also include space dividers having LED lighting technology employed externally of the space dividers.
The space dividers may include curtains mounted from top portions of the sections. LED lighting strip supports may depend forwardly and horizontally or angularly from the space dividers, and appropriately secured to linear voids of the space dividers. Positioned downwardly from the supports is a series of LED lights. The LED lights have appropriate colors so as to provide an external color wash over a lower portion of the side surfaces of the space dividers, below the curtain. The color wash can be modified in intensity and with respect to diffusion, dependent upon intensity and color of the LED lights, and also dependent upon the particular materials from which the space dividers are constructed.
The subset of the partitions may include space dividers having low voltage DC power lines, communications cabling, AC power and AC power lines. At least one of the AC power lines terminates in a pair of electrical receptacles. Conventional electrical appliances may be energized through the electrical receptacles. An AC power line may also be utilized, through the electrical receptacles, to energize computerized apparatus.
Data on communications signals may be transmitted from the computerized apparatus through a communications signal junction box. From the junction box, signals may be transmitted outwardly through the communications cabling.
The space dividers may include electrical connections of at least one task light to the electrical signals of the supporting infrastructure. The task light may include a rectangular LED marker at a terminus of the light. A flexible joint may be employed, and a fabric cover may be extended downwardly and angularly from the flexible joint. The fabric cover may be interconnected to a securing bracket which, in turn, is secured to at least one of the space dividers.
The space dividers may also include projection screens releasably secured thereto. In addition, the space division system may include utilitarian elements associated with the partitions, with the utilitarian elements comprising at least one controlling device. The utilitarian elements may also include at least one controlled device, with the controlled device having at least first and second states. The communications signals may be utilized to effect a logical control relationship between the controlling device and the controlled device. The logical control relationship may be reconfigured at least in part with the communication signals, in the absence of any physical relocation of any physical wiring associated with the controlling device and the controlled device. The system may include at least one manually operable programming means for transmitting programming signals so as to effect the logical control relationship. The utilitarian elements may be manually releasable from the partitions.
In accordance with further aspects of the invention, the space division system may comprise audio apparatus integrated with at least a subset of the partitions. The audio apparatus may include a plurality of speakers energized from the electrical signals. These speakers may comprise controlled devices, and the system may further comprise at least one controlling device. The communication signals may be utilized to effect a logical control relationship between the controlling device and the speakers. In addition, the system may include at least one manually operable programming means as the controlling device, for purposes of transmitting programming signals so as to effect the logical control relationship with the speakers.
The system may also include sound management apparatus for providing means for controlling perceptions of sound at spatial locations adjacent the space division system. The sound management apparatus can be powered at least in part through the distribution of the electrical signals. Further, the speakers may be utilized to generate noise masking audio signals, for purposes of providing sound management at spatial locations around the space division system.
In another aspect, the space division system may be adapted for use with an articulating ceiling. Still further, at least a subset of the partitions may be constructed at least in part of materials having substantial capabilities of resisting penetration. The subset of the partitions may be constructed at least in part of materials within the group of Aramids. Still further, the subset of the partitions may be constructed at least in part of Kevlar® brand fiber.
In accordance with another aspect of the invention, the plurality of partitions can comprise at least a subset of the partitions constructed at least in part of materials consisting of fire-resistant or fire-proof materials. The subset of the partitions may consist at least in part of materials within the group of Aramids. In this regard, the subset of the partitions may consist at least in part of materials consisting of Nomex® brand fiber. In addition, the plurality of partitions can comprise at least a subset of the partitions consisting at least in part of materials comprising a blend of Kevlar® and Nomex® brand fibers.
In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the space division system can comprise means for securing at least a subset of the plurality of partitions to a lower floor structure. Further, the space division system can comprise switch means for controlling functional accessories associated with the partitions. The switch means can comprise switches having differing spatial positions for generating “on” and “off” states. The switch means may be electrically responsive to spatial signals so as to change between control states.
Still further, the switch means can comprise pressure switches. The switch means can be responsive to signals indicative of motion within areas surrounding the switch means, for purposes of switching between control states. The switch means can also be responsive to radio frequency signals for switching between control states. In addition, the switch means can be responsive to infrared signals for switching between control states.
In accordance with a further aspect of the invention, the at least one controlling device can comprise at least one switch. Also, the system can comprise means for generating and for sensing radio frequency identification signals.
The invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, in which:
The principles of the invention are disclosed, by way of example, in a space division system 100, incorporating technology. The space division system 100 utilizes a series of movable and internally reconfigurable vertically disposed partitions for purposes of providing lighting aesthetics, function signaling, privacy, semi-private configurations and the like. In addition, the space division system 100 in accordance with the invention also provides a space division system which facilitates incorporation of various technologies. Space dividers and other aspects of the space division system 100 in accordance with the invention are capable of physical relocation, and comprise lightweight components. Rapid addition/deletion of joined space dividers is provided, through the use of quick-release components.
A number of other advantages also exist with respect to space division systems in accordance with the invention. More specifically, the invention includes the use of spline concepts for joined connection of space dividers. In this manner, formation of various configurations of the space division system 100 have moved from known line segment configurations, to having the capability of a configuration having a curve of any desired radius. In the same regard, space division systems in accordance with the invention exhibit internal stretch characteristics, with respect to space divider surfaces, battens and frames.
Still further, another aspect of space divider systems in accordance with the invention include the use of digital storage. For example, storage disks can be contained within fabric of the space dividers. These storage disks can be coupled to external equipment such as laptop computers. Such laptops and other powered equipment may be energized through other components associated with the space dividers. Still further, digital storage can be provided in the form of microprocessors or other similar elements, having software for functions such as sound management and the like.
Still further, space divider systems in accordance with the invention can provide digital programming and switching functions. In general, these functions, along with other aspects of space division systems in accordance with the invention harness the effect of the semiconductor development and the effect of miniaturization. In this regard, the space division systems in accordance with the invention provide for embedment and integration of electronic and lighting components.
Still further, space division systems in accordance with the invention can comprise integration of solid state lighting (SSL). This lighting can be utilized for functions such as providing for color changes of space dividers themselves. Still further, lighting functions can provide for the signaling of interior or exterior circumstances. For example, lighting associated with the space dividers can be utilized to provide wayfinding. Signaling can also be utilized to indicate, for example, that a person is “in” within a particular working space.
Space division systems in accordance with the invention can also comprise integration and distribution of power. In particular, space division systems in accordance with the invention provide for DC power distribution. They also permit flexible use of 12-volt applications.
With respect to specifics of space division systems in accordance with the invention, they can include channel voids within space dividers, with the voids being located at differing heights. These voids can be utilized to carry power lines, lighting, digital storage and other components.
Still further, space division systems in accordance with the invention provide for modification and reconfiguration of the appearance of space divider fabrics. Color change can be provided, for example, through the use of solid state lighting embedded within channel voids of the space dividers. In addition, appearance changes can be made to occur through the use of functional control of conventional lighting.
Space dividers employed in space division systems in accordance with the invention can also provide for acoustical ameliorations. For example, space divider fabrics can employ physical sound attenuation material. Also, components associated with the space division system can provide for functional control of sound management systems and the like. Further, a primary aspect of space division systems in accordance with the invention relates to the totality of the foregoing principles.
Turning to
As earlier stated herein, the hanger clips 108 can be characterized as “quick release” and “quick connect” elements. That is, the hanger clips 108 are advantageous for rapidly reconfiguring the physical locations of space dividers 102 relative to the rail system 104. General concepts associated with the rail system 104, and more specific configurations of elements such as the hanger clips 108, are disclosed in the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/408,149, entitled “Rail System” and filed Sep. 4, 2002.
The space divider 102 may include an upper structural batten 112. The upper structural batten 112 provides, in part, for “shape holding” of the space divider 102. Extending downwardly from the structural batten 112 is the main body 114 of the space divider 102. The main body 114 may be of a fabric which is substantially opaque, so as to generally provide a visual privacy curtain. Associated with the main body 114 is lighting technology, which may be in the form of solid state lighting (SSL) technology, such as LED lights. For example, embedded within the main body 114, in a manner so as to be visible to a person near the space divider 102, are a series of LED lights 116 arranged in a horizontal configuration. Further solid state lighting, which may also be in the form of LED lighting, is structured as arrow lighting 118 shown near the bottom of the main body 114. In emergency situations, the arrow lighting 118 may be activated (in any of a number of appropriate control arrangements) so as to activate all of the arrow lights 118 or, alternatively, the arrow lights 118 may be activated in a manner so that they are sequentially “pulsed” so as to create the effect of “pointing” in a particular direction to show an appropriate direction of egress in an emergency situation.
In addition to the concept of using arrow lighting 118, other types of functional signaling can be provided. For example, solid state lighting or other types of lighting could be utilized in combination with other elements so as to signal various other internal and external situations. For example, solid state lighting associated with the space dividers 102 could be utilized to indicate if an individual is “in” a particular workspace or, alternatively, is absent. Numerous other types of signaling could be utilized with the solid state lighting associated with the space dividers 102.
The space divider 102 also includes a lower hemmed section 120 having a weighted insert as described in subsequent paragraphs herein with respect to other drawings. The weighted insert within the lower hemmed section 120 may also be utilized for purposes of “shape holding.” With respect to the rail 106, hanger clips 108 and support rods 110, various types of configurations may be utilized. One type of configuration is disclosed in the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/408,149, entitled “Rail System” and filed on Sep. 4, 2002.
In addition to the foregoing, space divider 136 is shown as primarily enclosing a privacy station 138, which may be utilized for telephone calls or the like. Other areas may be partitioned or otherwise have space dividers of the space division system in a manner so as to provide aesthetics, such as space dividers 140 and 142. The various configurations of the space dividers illustrated in
The space divider 184 terminates at its lower portion with the lower hem 120. The lower hem 120 is shown as having a weighted insert 190. The weighted insert 190 is utilized to maintain the space divider 184 in a stable position. That is, the weighted insert 190 provides for “shape holding” for the space dividers of the space division system 100. In a particular example illustrated in
In accordance with the foregoing, the space division system 100 in accordance with the invention provides for the rapid addition and deletion of space dividers. In addition, the elements of the space division system 100 exhibit internal stretch characteristics, with respect to space divider surfaces, battens and frames. These internal stretch characteristics provide for a continuum of configurations, with the spline interconnections providing for curvature of any reasonable radius.
The particular LED lighting strips 234 may comprise, for example, yellow linear flex side LED lighting strips, having a configuration of approximately 2 inches by 24 feet. Other interconnections may also be employed with the space dividers 230, such as Internet connections and the like.
In addition to the foregoing, the space dividers and associated channel voids can be utilized with data storage technology. For example, the computer 332 or other types of computerized or communications equipment could be releasably attached to a data storage device embedded within voids of the space dividers. These data storage devices could be in the form of disks or similar devices. Also, for example, data storage and programming devices such as microprocessors could also be embedded within voids of the space dividers, for releasable interconnection to other types of equipment, such as sound management technology and the like. With respect to all the foregoing, the space division system 100 in accordance with the invention provides for actual data storage embodied and embedded within the space division system itself. In this manner, the space dividers themselves are not merely fabrics within frames having battens and the like, but are elements which take advantage of today's miniaturization and advancements in technology, so as to provide data storage, access to programmable devices and the like.
Still further, other types of equipment may be utilized. For example, both wired and wireless headphones may be employed and energized through the DC power distribution systems. Still further, projection equipment may be utilized, with projection screens releasably attached to fabrics of the space dividers. This was illustrated with respect to projector screen 402, coupled to the space divider 130. Still further, however, projection may occur upon fabric surfaces of the space dividers themselves. This can be provided through the use of monofilaments.
As earlier referenced herein, the space division system 100 with technology provides a means for facilitating control and reconfiguration of control relationships among various functional components which may be utilized with the space division system 100. For purposes of describing the concept of establishing controlling relationships among various controlled and controlling components which may be associated with the space division system 100, reference is made to the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/374,012, entitled “Switching/Lighting Correlation System” and filed on Apr. 19, 2002. The contents of the aforedescribed patent application are hereby incorporated by reference herein.
In this regard, it is relatively apparent that it would be favorable to establish control relationships among switches and lights, and have the capability of reconfiguring the same. Other control relationships may also be worthwhile. For example,
The control wand 460 may also include a trigger 474, for purposes of initiating transmission of IR signals. Still further, the wand 460 may include mode select switches such as mode select switch 476 and mode select switch 478. These mode select switches may be utilized to allow manual selection of particular commands which may be generated using the wand 460. The control wand 460 may also utilize controllers (not shown) or similar computerized devices for purposes of providing electronics within the wand 460 for use with the trigger 474, mode select switches 476, 478, light source 470 and the IR emitter 472. As earlier mentioned, an example of the use of such a wand, with the attendant commands which may be generated using the same, is described in the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/374,012, entitled “Switching/Lighting Correlation System” and filed on Apr. 19, 2002.
Referring back to
Various types of appliances and technologies may be utilized with the space dividers of the space division system 100, in addition to those that have been expressly described in detail herein. For example, sound apparatus such as speakers and the like may be integrated into the various space dividers of the space division system 100. Such speakers may be energized through power and communication sources described herein, or through other energizing means, including batteries and the like. Still further, the speakers could be selectively enabled as desired, and controlled with the control wand 460 and control processes described earlier herein.
Still further, noise masking processes could be employed with the use of these speakers, in addition to general acoustical control arrangements. Still further, the noise masking arrangements employing the speakers could be integrated within a virtual structure associated with the space division system 100. In general, various types of speakers, noise masking, acoustical control and other equipment and processes could be employed with the technologies of the space division system 100, and powered with the method and apparatus described herein, as well as with other energizing arrangements (e.g. batteries).
Still further, the space dividers of the space division system 100 may have application in situations which require the employment of security measures. In this regard, it may be advantageous to construct space dividers of the space division systems with materials having a substantial capability of resisting penetration. An example of one such material is known as Kevlar® brand fiber, with the term Kevlar® being a registered trademark of E.I. duPont de Nemours and Company. Kevlar® brand fiber is p-phenyleneterephtalamide. Kevlar® brand fiber combines relatively high strength with light weight. Kevlar® brand fiber is within a family of nylon fibers known as Aramids. Specifically, and is within a polyamide, with amide groups attached at carbons 1 and 4. For purposes of security, various of the space dividers of the space division system 100 may be constructed of Kevlar® brand fiber.
Still further, will respect to security and safety, the space dividers of the space division system 100 may be constructed of fire resistant or fire proof materials. One such material which also falls within the family of Aramids is known as Nomex® brand fiber. The term Nomex® is also a trademark of E.I. duPont de Nemours and Company. Nomex® brand fiber is commonly utilized for purposes of making fire proof clothing. Unlike Kevlar® brand fiber, Nomex® brand fiber has amide groups attached at carbons 1 and 3. It is not uncommon to construct materials which are blends of both Nomex® and Kevlar® brand fibers. It may therefore be advantageous to construct the space dividers of the space division system 100 with materials employing Nomex® brand fiber or other materials having fire proof properties, in addition to Kevlar® brand fiber or other materials which substantially resist penetration.
Another configuration of the space division system 100 may also be important with regard to security and safety. Specifically, it may be advantageous to incorporate means in the space division system 100 for releasably securing space dividers and other elements of the space division system 100 to a floor structure. Various types of securing means could be employed with the space dividers, lower battens and the like. However, it would be preferable to insure that the means for securing elements of the space division system 100 to the floor structure still permit release of these elements from the floor structure without significant effort.
Turing to other apparatus and concepts which may be employed with a space division system in accordance with the invention, the lighting configurations described herein (such as LED lighting strip 462, task light 464 and the like) may employ various types of controlling apparatus in the form of enabling switches for controlling the state of the lighting elements or other electrical apparatus, appliances, computerized equipment and the like. In this regard, various types of switches may be employed. These switches may be in the form of conventional switches having differing spatial positions for “on” and “off” states. However, other types of switches may also be employed. For example, the space division system 100 in accordance with the invention may employ optical switches for controlling lighting elements, electrical appliances and the like. With respect to use of the control wand 460 previously described herein, the switches may be associated with sensors which can detect spatial signals transmitted from the wand 460. Further, physically operable switches such as pressure switches may also be employed. Still further, various types of motion sensing devices may be employed to enable and disable switches and associated equipment. These and other types of switches may also be employed with the use of radio frequency identification (“RFID”) systems, whereby, for example, an individual entering a room with a specific RFID badge may cause switches and their associated sensors to identify the individual and configure lighting elements and other equipment associated with the space division system 100 to specific states. Still further, all of these types of switches and other controlling devices may be communicatively coupled to a power and communications network associated with the space division system 100. Such a network is generally described in the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/408,149, entitled “Rail System” and filed Sep. 4, 2002.
In summary, a space division system 100 has been disclosed in accordance with the invention, which provides for movable and internally reconfigurable space dividers, incorporates various technologies and is not limited in size or expansion capability. The system is internally reconfigurable, light weight and employs quick-release elements. In this regard, joined space dividers can be rapidly added and deleted, and the use of splines provides for movement from line segment configurations to configurations having a curve of any radius.
In the same regard, internal stretch characteristics are exhibited by space divider surfaces, battens and frames. Digital storage is also provided within voids of fabrics associated with the space dividers. Still further, digital programming and switching is also provided. In this manner, space division systems in accordance with the invention harness the effect of miniaturization, through the embedment and integration of electronic components. In addition, solid state lighting is integrated within the system, having capabilities such as changing color appearances of space dividers and the like. In addition, signaling of interior and exterior circumstances is provided. In the same regard, space division systems in accordance with the invention incorporate integration and distribution of power, particularly DC power and the flexible use of 12-volt applications.
With regard to structure, channel voids are provided within space dividers at differing heights. Space divider fabrics can be modified in appearance, such as providing color changes using solid state lighting. Color appearance can also be modified through the functional control of conventional lighting. Space division systems in accordance with the invention can also exhibit acoustical ameliorations, through the use of physical sound attenuation material, functional control of sound management systems and the like.
It will be apparent to those skilled in the pertinent arts that other embodiments of space division systems in accordance with the invention may be designed. That it, the principles of a space division system for configuring control among functional accessories and for the connection of functional accessories through a space division system are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein. For example, various configurations of certain components of the space division system 100 may be utilized, without departing from the spirit of the invention. Further, numerous types of technologies may be utilized with the space division system 100, without departing from the novel concepts of the invention. Such technologies may include the use of sound design, radio frequency identification (“RFID”), infrared spatial transmissions and other technologies. Accordingly, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and other variations of the above-described illustrative embodiments of the invention may be effected without departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention.
This international application is based upon and claims priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/408,011 filed Sep. 4, 2002.
| Filing Document | Filing Date | Country | Kind | 371c Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/US03/27747 | 9/4/2003 | WO | 6/7/2006 |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 60408011 | Sep 2002 | US |
