Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
CA 02410822 2002-11-27
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DESCRIPTION
RESIDENCE SPACE FORMING EQUIPMENT
Technical Field
The present invention relates to residence space
forming equipment which is applicable to knowledge-intensive
organizations and the like particularly advantageously.
Background Art
Recently, there has been made a proposal of a system
capable of converting the use of a workspace of an office into
a different use and customizing such a workspace to meet the
need.
Such an office system has been proposed as a system
capable of constructing a totalized workspace based on
"unification of modules" and "optionality" as mainstays with
respect mainly to furniture so that functions of the workspace
can be selected freely and that conversion of use of the
workspace can be made as desired, on the assumption that there
are diversified working styles in a center office.
That is, the office system is constructed aiming
principally at such functionality as to form an independent
group work dedicated space, a personal work dedicated space or
the like appropriately through the changing of the arrangement
of furniture and the attaching or detaching of optional
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members with changing work style.
From now on, however, it seems that: work styles
will change with increasing amounts of non-routine works for
individuals or groups; workplaces will change from center
offices into flexible and diversified office forms such as
remote offices, mobile offices and home offices; and center
offices will have an increased number of communication areas
and service areas. With respect to specialist teams or
knowledge work teams, the form of a team will continuously
change with progress of a work in the procedure of one
development through, for example, repetitive and frequent
meeting and parting of staff members about group works and
changes in the number and actions of such members.
It is indispensable for a working environment suited
for such a work style to be capable of not only easy
conversion of use of a workspace and easy customization of
such a workspace but also appropriate selection of spaces
suitable for diversified works of individuals or groups and
for the number of working people as well as to ensure a chain
of actions and continuity of moves as selection of such works
and places changes. To this end, it is desirable to create an
environment wherein: areas of different uses or different
functions be loosely connected to each other; and each member
of a team somehow grasp the flow of the task of the whole team
and the locations of other members and documents.
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Disclosure of Invention
The present invention has been made in view of the
foregoing problem. One object of the present invention is to
raise the efficiency of a knowledge-intensive organization
markedly through a system configuration that realizes the
provisions of diversified space functions on a use-by-use
basis, semi-transparently screened spaces and seamless space
layout, which serve as the mainstays in constructing an office
system.
Another object of the present invention is to
provide residence space forming equipment useful in attaining
the above-described object.
That is, the present invention provides residence
space forming equipment comprising a plurality of erected
planar members to be interconnected for forming a residence
space, characterized in that: some of the erected planar
members define a gateway therebetween for entry into and exit
from the residence space; and the erected planar members
defining the gateway are interconnected through a guide member
having at least one portion protruding horizontally from an
erected planar surface to indicate the presence of the gateway.
With the residence space forming equipment thus
constructed, the guide member serves as a guidepost indicating
the location of the gateway of the residence space thereby
ensuring highly efficient and smooth operability for a work
team or the like through a chain of actions and continuity of
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moves. Particularly where erected planar surfaces are
continuous with each other to form a long wall, such a long
wall gives a monotonous impression and a sensation of pressure
to people. The guide member, however, brings about a change
in design thereby overcoming such an inconvenience. The guide
member is configured not only to serve as a guidepost but also
to play the role of a connection member for interconnecting
erected planar members. Thus, such connection is capable of
effectively preventing each erected planar member from being
supported on one side only and is effective in properly fixing
the guide member to erected planar members.
Such functions and effects can be fulfilled through
the following specific embodiments:
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between a pair of erected planar members positioned
perpendicularly to each other; and the guide member is of a
substantially 1/4 arc shape interconnecting the pair of
y erected planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between a pair of erected planar members positioned
perpendicularly to each other; and the guide member is of a
loop shape interconnecting the pair of erected planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between a pair of erected planar members forming wall surfaces
which are continuous and flush with each other; and the guide
member is of a substantially 1/2 arc shape interconnecting the
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pair of erected planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between a pair of erected planar members forming wall surfaces
which are continuous and flush with each other; and the guide
5 member is of a loop shape interconnecting the pair of erected
planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between three erected glanar members assembled to form a
substantially "T"-shape; and the guide member is of a
substantially 1/2 arc shape interconnecting the three erected
planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between three erected planar members assembled to form a
substantially "T"-shape; and the guide member is of a loop
shape interconnecting the three erected planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between four erected planar members assembled to form a cross
shape; and the guide member is of a loop shape interconnecting
the four erected planar members.
To enhance the function of such a guide member
effectively, it is desirable that the guide member be capable
of fitting a portion thereof to an erected planar member
positioned in a vertical plane that does not extend through
the center of an arc formed by the guide member.
It is also desirable that the guide member have a
function of being fitted to an erected planar member
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positioned in a vertical plane extending in any direction
through the center of an arc formed by the guide member within
an effective fitting range.
In order for wiring or the like to pass through the
gateway, it is desirable that the guide member have a wiring
installing function.
In order for the guiding function to be enhanced
more effectively, it is preferred that the guide member be
provided with a lighting instrument on an upper or lower side
thereof, or that the guide member have a characteristic
configuration matching the function of the gateway.
As described above, the residence space forming
equipment of the present invention comprises a plurality of
erected planar members to be interconnected for forming a
residence space, wherein: some of the erected planar members
define a gateway therebetween for entry into and exit from the
residence space; and the erected planar members defining the
gateway are interconnected through a guide member having at
least one portion protruding horizontally from an erected
planar surface to indicate the presence of the gateway.
With the residence space forming equipment thus
constructed, the guide member serves as a guidepost indicating
the location of the gateway of the residence space thereby
ensuring highly efficient and smooth operability for a work
team or the like through a chain of actions and continuity of
moves. Particularly where erected planar surfaces are
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continuous with each other to form a long wall, such a long
wall gives a monotonous impression and a sensation of pressure
to people. The guide member, however, brings about a change
in design thereby overcoming such an inconvenience. The guide
member is configured not only to serve as a guidepost but also
to play the role of a connection member for interconnecting
erected planar members. Thus, such connection is capable of
effectively preventing each erected planar member from being
supported on one side only and is effective in properly fixing
the guide member to erected planar members.
The guide member can have a novel shape which
enhances the functions of the guide member as a guidepost and
as an accent, if the guide member has a loop shape or partial
loop shape matching the form of the gateway in the following
specific embodiments:
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between a pair of erected planar members positioned
perpendicularly to each other; and the guide member is of a
substantially 1/4 arc shape interconnecting the pair of
erected planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between a pair of erected planar members positioned
perpendicularly to each other; and the guide member is of a
loop shape interconnecting the pair of erected planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between a pair of erected planar members forming wall surfaces
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which are continuous and flush with each other; and the guide
member is of a substantially 1/2 arc shape interconnecting the
pair of erected planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between a pair of erected planar members forming wall surfaces
which are continuous and flush with each other; and the guide
member is of a loop shape interconnecting the pair of erected
planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between three erected planar members assembled to form a
substantially °T"-shape; and the guide member is of a
substantially 1/2 arc shape interconnecting the three erected
planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between three erected planar members assembled to form a
substantially "T"-shape; and the guide member is of a loop
shape interconnecting the three erected planar members.
An embodiment wherein: the gateway is defined
between four erected planar members assembled to form a cross
shape; and the guide member is of a loop shape interconnecting
the four erected planar members.
If the guide member is capable of fitting a portion
thereof to an erected planar member positioned in a vertical
plane that does not extend through the center of an arc formed
by the guide member, it is possible to arrange such an erected
planar member independent of a building module effectively.
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If the guide member is capable of being fitted to an
erected planar member positioned in a vertical plane extending
in any direction through the center of an arc formed by the
guide member within an effective fitting range, wall surfaces
assembled at an angle other than perpendicularly or linearly
can be interconnected effectively, which is effective in
diversifying the form of the residence space.
In the case where wiring or the like needs to be
routed to a position crossing the gateway is needed, the guide
member, if imparted with a wiring installing function, can
effectively avoid the occurrence of such an inconvenience as
to cause frequent occurrences of disconnection because of the
wiring becoming an obstacle against entry and exit or as to
impair the outward appearance or the function of an office.
With the guide member provided with a lighting
instrument on an upper or lower side thereof, a ceiling
surface or a floor surface can be illuminated as reflecting
the shape of the guide member and, hence, the visual effect of
the guide member as a guidepost of the gateway can be enhanced
more effectively.
With the guide member having a characteristic
configuration matching the function of the gateway, the
gateway can be recognized even from a distant place with a
traffic line made clear, whereby a chain of actions and
continuity of moves can be enhanced effectively.
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Brief Description of Drawings
Fig. 1 is a conceptual illustration showing a
concept based on which one embodiment of the present invention
is to be constructed. Fig. 2 is an illustration showing a
5 conventional construction corresponding to Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is
a plan view of a construction embodying the concept shown in
Fig. 1. Fig. 4 is a perspective view of a construction
developed as a more concrete design from the construction
shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a plan view corresponding to Fig.
10 4. Fig. 6 is a perspective view of a panel used in the
embodiment. Fig. 7 is a perspective view showing the
appearance of a residence space according to the embodiment.
Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a
residence space according to the embodiment. Fig. 9 is a
perspective view illustrating a function of the panel used in
the embodiment. Fig. 10 is a perspective view showing
interior equipment secured to the panel used in the embodiment
by engagement.
Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention
Hereinafter, one embodiment of the present invention
will be described with reference to the drawings.
Residence space forming equipment according to this
embodiment is constructed to support a specialist team or
knowledge work team, for example, a research and development
team of a suggestion type, a designing team or the like.
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To improve the team performance of such a knowledge
work team, a personal creative process support is needed for
autonomous knowledge workers, while on the other hand a group
creative process support needed for non-routine and
communication processes.
Taking into consideration the points: a work style
of this type is for a flexible knowledge-intensive
organization; and importance should be attached to team
performance, and like points, and in view of the influence
brought by the combination of a personal space and a shared
space, the residence space is formed as follows.
First, work areas and shared areas are considered as
areas to be formed. Then, as shown in the conceptual
illustration at Fig. 1, work areas al to a6 are divided into
two groups, which in turn are arranged adjacent to shared
areas b1 to b3, whereby the shared areas b1 to b3 can be
utilized as a passageway for traffic between work areas al to
a3 and work areas a4 to a6. For example, areas a2 and a5 are
provided as group work areas GW for working on a group basis,
while areas al, a3, a4 and a6 provided as personal work areas
PW for working on an individual basis. Shared areas b1 and b3
are interaction areas INT and shared area b2 is a service area
SV. These areas al to a6 and b1 to b3 allow direct traffic
between adjacent shared areas, between adjacent work areas and
between a shared area and a work area, which are situated
adjacent to each other.
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Fig. 2 shows a conventional system for comparison
with the system shown in Fig. 1, wherein there is a dedicated
passageway c4 between work area c1 and shared areas c2 and c3
(i.e., service area c2 and communication area c3).
While Fig. 1 is a conceptual illustration in which
circles are shown as overlapping each other to mean that areas
are vaguely continuous with each other, Fig. 3 is an
illustration in which parting lines PL between areas are
clearly shown to embody the concept of Fig. 1 to some extent.
In Fig. 3 corresponding to Fig. 1, shared areas b1 and b3 are
interaction areas INT and shared area b2 is a service area SV.
Work areas a2 and a5 are group work areas GW, while work areas
al, a3, a4 and a6 are personal work areas PW. That is, this
design includes six work areas al to a6 and three shared areas
b1 to b3, the shared areas b1 to b3 being arranged serially,
the work areas al to a3 and the work areas a4 to a6 being
arranged serially on opposite sides of the shared areas b1 to
b3. Fig. 3 clearly shows a conception of opening a parting
line PL at a location where areas meet together and providing
a gateway 3 at that location in order to allow traffic between
adjacent shared areas, between adjacent work areas and between
a shared area and a work area adjacent thereto as well as to
realize an embodiment having areas vaguely continuous with
each other.
Figs. 4 and 5 show a more specific design developed
from Fig. 3. Areas al to a6 and b1 to b3 are separated from
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each other by joining partition panels 1 and lx (movable
partition walls) with each other, the partition panels being
erected planar members. There is no dedicated passageway on
the inner sides of partition panels lx delineating the outer
extremity of these areas al to a6 and b1 to b3, but dedicated
passageways 2 are provided on the outer sides of all the
partition panels lx.
The shared areas b1 to b3 are utilized as
passageways because the shared areas b1 to b3 are centered as
a traffic line for traffic between the work areas al to a3 and
the work areas a4 to a6 or between the work areas and the
outside to form a residence space of an excursion type which
offers an increased number of chances of encounter and finding
or of an arrangement which permits residence of workers,
thereby inducing smooth communication between workers.
There is no dedicated passageway on the inner sides
of the partition panels lx delineating the outer extremity of
the areas because the function of the shared areas b1 to b3 as
passageways is to be made effective and because the whole area
is to be used as a continuous area which is useful with no
waste, highly efficient and systematic. Further, all the
peripheral areas are used as dedicated passageways 2 because
the space inside the dedicated passageways 2 is definitely
delimited as a region for one team or the like, so that
differentiation from and communication with other teams can be
made effectively.
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While areas al to a6 and b1 to b3 are delimited from
each other and from the passageways 2 with the partition
panels 1 arranged to form a letter of "T" or "+", the
partition panels 1 are not closed at a corner of each area.
That is, this open corner defines gateway 3 which allows
direct traffic between one area and another area located
adjacent or diagonal thereto. This embodiment allows direct
traffic with three areas at the maximum. Such a gateway 3 is
applicable to a maximum of four of the corners of an area
demarcated rectangular. It is needless to say that there is
no need to provide a gateway at a corner at which the
provision of a gateway is unnecessary.
Each area is provided with gateway 3 at a corner for
allowing direct traffic with other areas therethrough as
described above because selectable areas are effectively
arranged within a proper walking distance thereby making the
traffic between areas smooth and rapid. This arrangement
facilitates meeting and parting of workers thereby realizing a
layout of the "the right job in the right place" type for
supporting selective moves depending on jobs and ensuring a
chain of actions and the continuity of moves through a
seamless environment between areas. That is, a chain of
actions and the continuity of moves in a team work are ensured
for workers; for example, it is possible that a worker
performs his or her own operation intensively in the personal
work area PW, then moves to the group work area GW for a
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meeting, presentation or the like, optionally enters the
interaction area INT if necessary, and returns to the personal
work area PW for intensive operation. Also, accidental
meeting of the worker with another worker in a shared area
5 during his or her move can facilitate communication
therebetween. The effect of supporting workers in this way is
enhanced as the number of other areas connected to one area
through gateway 3 increases.
In this embodiment, which is an arrangement where
10 different areas are arranged lengthwise and crosswise in a
matrix fashion with the partition panels 1 separating one area
from another, rows and columns of areas fornn functional lines
on each of which a set of functions are gathered.
Referring to Fig. 5, right-hand lengthwise line LVR
15 and left-hand lengthwise line LVL, which consist of areas
arranged lengthwise and crosswise into a matrix pattern, form
dedicated lines PL on each of which dedicated areas are
grouped, while middle lengthwise line LVM forms a shared line
GL on which shared areas are grouped. At the same time, upper
crosswise line LHO and lower crosswise line LHU form work
lines WL, while middle crosswise line LHM forms non-work line
NWL (including the right-hand and left-hand areas functioning
as interaction axeas and the middle area functioning as a
service axea). That is, these lines provide the office space
with personal work areas (PW) al, a3, a4 and a6, group work
areas (GW) a2 and a5, interaction areas (INT) b1 and b3, and
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service area (SV) b2. Though the interaction areas (INT) b1
and b3 in this embodiment are shared areas rather than
dedicated areas, the present invention does not exclude an
area layout including such an exceptional area as long as
other areas are arranged in accordance with the aforementioned
lengthwise or crosswise functional lines.
While such a systematic functional layout for an
office space functions effectively even when it is a minimum
unit consisting of four areas gathered, the function of the
layout becomes striking when six or more areas are gathered.
Such a matrix layout is employed because the
function of each area can be grasped easily and because
efficient arrangement of elements can be made on a function-
by-function basis when the infrastructure including equipment
for electricity, gas, water system and the like is to be
constructed. Further, such an arrangement permits the
provision of a multiplicity of selectable areas within a
proper walking region thereby realizing a layout of the "the
right job in the right place" type for supporting selective
move depending on jobs.
Here, an example of the construction of each area is
illustrated. Each dedicated work area PW (area al, a3, a4 or
a6 in Figs. 4 and 5, or area dl in Fig. 6) is constructed to
have a total area of about 6 to 4 m2 per seat, to accommodate
about 5 to 8 persons therein, and to provide a place for
intensive knowledge work. Alternatively, the dedicated work
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area PW ensures a visitor space or the like when a non-
repetitive work is to be done in this area only. Of course,
this team-dedicated area can be made to function as a group
work area. In this area are placed work surfaces such as
defined by desks and whiteboards and clearboards of personal
sizes. These elements are preferably elements of an
independent type having low interdependence. The work
surfaces include work surfaces of different heights to
accommodate to a plurality of parallel operations, so that the
space can be utilized as efficiently as possible and that an
environment allowing a plurality of operations to proceed at a
time can be provided.
The shared work areas GW (areas a2 and a5 in Figs. 4
and 5), on the other hand, are each constructed to accommodate
5 to 8 persons at the maximum therein and to provide a place
for discussion or meeting. In each of these areas are
provided work surfaces such as of tables adapted for group
work and whiteboards and clearboards of group sizes. The work
surfaces include work surfaces of different heights to the
effect same as described above.
The interaction areas (areas b1 and b3 in Figs. 4
and 5) each provide a place for chatting or relaxation as a
break or a coffee bar for example at a location adjacent work
areas. These interaction areas b1, b3 and g1 each may be
provided with work surfaces by installing tables or the like
as the need arises.
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The service area (area b2 in Figs. 4 and 5) is
provided with furniture and equipment required for different
services as a copy corner, mail corner, library and retrieval
equipment.
According to the conventional area distribution, the
main importance is attached to personal work areas, while the
supplemental importance attached to group work areas. In one
preferred foam of this embodiment, however, a larger weight is
put on group work areas so that the proportion of the total
area of group work areas GW and interaction areas INT becomes
substantially equal to the proportion of the total area of
personal work areas PW.
As shown in Figs. 4 and 5, this embodiment is
further provided with a guide member 4 at a location above
each gateway 3 of a residence space enclosed with the
partition panels 1 each comprising an erected planar member,
the guide member 4 having at least one portion extending
horizontally to interconnect panels 1 on opposite sides of the
gateway 3.
Such a guide member 4 is provided because the guide
member 4 serves as a guidepost for persons present in the area
or walking in the dedicated passageways to know the location
of the gateway 3 of the residence space as shown in Figs. 7
and 8 thereby ensuring highly efficient and smooth operability
for a work team or the like through a chain of actions and
continuity of moves. Particularly where the erected planar
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surfaces continue with each other to form a long wall as shown
in Fig. 8, such a long wall gives a monotonous impression and
a sensation of pressure to people. The guide member 4,
however, brings about a change in design thereby overcoming
such an inconvenience. The guide member 4 is configured not
only to serve as a guidepost but also to play the role of a
connection member for connecting one panel 1 to another. Thus,
such connection is capable of effectively prevent each panel 1
from being supported on one side only and aids in properly
fixing the guide member 4 to panel 1. Further, the guide
member 4 can be utilized as a wiring path between panels 1.
Specific forms of guide member 4 shown in Figs. 4
and 5 include guide member 4 of a 1/4 arc or loop shape used
for gateway 3 defined between a pair of panels 1 positioned
perpendicularly to each other, guide member 4 of a 1/2 arc or
loop shape used for gateway 3 defined between a pair of panels
1 forming wall surfaces which are continuous and flush with
each other, guide member 4 of a 1/2 arc or loop shape used for
gateway 3 defined between three panels 1 assembled to form a
"T"-shape, and guide member 4 of a loop shape used for gateway
3 defined between four panels 1 assembled to form a "+"-shape.
Such a guide member 4 of a loop shape or a partial
loop shape is used because the shape thereof is novel and
hence enhances the functions as a guidepost and as an accent
effectively.
In this embodiment, the guide member 4 of a loop or
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a partial loop shape has a function of fitting a portion
thereof to even a panel 1 positioned in a vertical plane that
does not extend through the center of an arc formed by the
guide member 4. This function is shown as the relation
5 between panel 1y and guide member 4y in Figs. 4 and 5. Where
the guide member 4 protrudes largely from a panel 1 or in a
like case, the guide member 4 may be supported with a pillar.
The guide member 4 imparted with such a function is
capable of connecting panels positioned as somewhat deviated
10 from their respective desired positions to appropriate
portions of the loop, thereby providing a construction which
has a higher degree of freedom as to the arrangement of panels
and basically does not need a given module according to which
the panels are arranged.
15 The partition panels 1 employed to partition the
area in this embodiment are lattice panels as shown in Fig. 6.
Specifically, these panels 1 each comprise a pair of
latticework structures 11 that are positioned opposite to each
other across a frame member 12 with a predetermined spacing S
20 therebetween so that their respective crossed pieces la are
aligned with each other with an equal pitch and in a same
phase, the latticework structures 11 in this position being
coupled to each other via the frame member 12. That is, the
latticework structures 11 are fitted to the frame member so as
to sandwich it therebetween. In this embodiment each of the
structures 11 is vertically divided into three portions, which,
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as a whole, form a single structure when fitted to the frame
member 12. The material employed for forming the latticework
structures 11 is a carbon fiber reinforced plastic for example.
The panel 1, which is constructed in compliance with
. 5 a building module for a building having a pillar pitch of 3600
mm for example, has an overall dimensions including width W =
900 mm and height H = 2100 mm (a portion extending in height
is omitted in Fig. 6). The latticework of the panel 1 is
symmetric with respect to both a vertical line and a
transverse line. The squares defined by the crossed pieces of
the latticework of the panel are arranged with a widthwise
pitch p1 of about 100 mm and with a vertical pitch p2 of about
25 mm for example. Each crossed piece is in the form of a
flat plate having a width T of about 4 mm and a depth D of
about 20 mm. Of course, these dimensions may be established
appropriately to meet the purpose or use.
The panel 1 is thus constructed for the purposes of:
lightening the panel 1 for the ease of assembly and
disassembly of the panel 1 without impairing the basic
function of the panel 1 as a delimiting wall; improving the
operating efficiency associated with assembly and disassembly
of the panel 1 by allowing the operator to grip a portion of
the latticework of the panel 1 in assembling or disassembling
the panel 1; and allowing the panel 1 to be assembled properly
without error. The panel 1 is vertically divided into three
portions for convenience of handling and for the intermediate
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portion to be removed to allow the panel 1 to be used in a
different way.
The use of panel 1 mainly constructed of such
latticework structures 11 makes spaces separated by the panel
1 into such a mutual relation that the visibility of an object
in one of the spaces through the panel 1 varies with varying
view angle with respect to the erected surface of the panel 1.
That is, since the panel 1 has a nature that at a certain view
angle, the squares defined in one of the latticework
structures 11 are closed with the crossed pieces of the other
latticework structure 11 or with the crossed pieces of the
same latticework structure 11 like a blind, the visibility
assumes the maximum when the panel 1 is viewed in a direction
normal to the erected surface thereof, while when the panel 1
is viewed in a direction in the plane of the erected surface
thereof, the visibility assumes the minimum. Thus, the
visibility varies between the maximum and the minimum with
varying view angle (angle of inclination with respect to a
line normal to the erected surface of the panel 1). Further,
since the panel 1 is thus constructed, opposite residence
spaces separated from each other with the panel 1 are
continuous with each other through the squares defined in the
latticework of the panel l and the internal space and, hence,
sound and air are permitted to pass through such a space
connecting portion.
Thus, a condition is created which allows a person
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in a residence space adjacent a certain residence space or a
person walking in the passageway beside the certain residence
space to see the silhouetted internal condition of the space
as shown in Fig. 7 or 8, to know fragmentary contents of a
talk, and to vaguely understand a context including the
location of a group member and the kind of work being done
with lapse of time. The silhouetting function of the panel 1
is exercised because the pitches p1 and p2 of the latticework
of the panel 1 are relatively small as described above. Of
course, it is possible to know the location of a person and
the contents of a work being done more clearly if attention is
given to the periphery of the silhouette.
The subject embodiment, in particular, is configured
such that each area is enclosed with panels 1 on the four
sides thereof to define a closed residence space, the internal
condition of which can be necessarily grasped from the four
sides by a person in an adjacent residence space, an adjacent
passageway or the like, so that the image of the inside
condition of the residence space is diffused toward the
periphery at the highest efficiency. Further, the subject
embodiment allows a person in a residence space to vaguely see
the internal condition of a residence space situated adjacent
to and beyond the residence space next to the residence space
where the person is present though the silhouette is thinner,
so that workers are able to catch the situation of the whole
office extensively and hence to share the context, while their
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privacy is guaranteed to such an extent as to be needed for
their personal works.
Each panel 1 has a space S inside its panel body and
the space S can be utilized to accommodate wiring Ca therein
as shown in Fig. 9. Since the structures 11 forming each
panel 1 used in this embodiment are of latticework, the wiring
can be led out in the direction normal to the panel body from
any position in the homogeneous portion of the panel body
through a square defined in the latticework. The °panel body",
as used herein, is referred to as a part comprising at least a
combination of the structures 11 and the frame member 12.
Accordingly, panel 1 can exercise a function as a service wall
that can accommodate to the needs of workers easily and
properly even when the position from which the wiring is led
out varies differently to meet different uses. Since panel 1
used in the subject embodiment, in particular, comprises the
pair of opposite structures 11 facing each other, the wiring
can be led out from either or both of the obverse and reverse
sides of panel 1. Thus, panel 1 of this configuration is
effective particularly where residence spaces are formed on
opposite sides of the panel 1.
Since the pitches of crossed pieces of the
latticework of the panel 1 are relatively small as described
above, the crossed pieces of the latticework are expect to
provide a blinding effect which conceals the inside wiring by
silhouetting, thereby preventing the wiring from being seen
CA 02410822 2002-11-27
unconcealedly.
For the wiring function of panel 1 to be fulfilled
effectively, it is effective that an appropriate wiring path
hole or a like hole is defined in a portion of the frame
5 member or the like so that the respective wiring accommodating
spaces of adjacent panels 1,1 becomes continuous with each
other.
Further, since panel 1 thus constructed according to
the subject embodiment defines a space behind the crossed
10 pieces of each latticework structure, it is possible that
interior equipment B is engaged with panel 1 at a position in
a homogeneous portion of structure 11 through the crossed
pieces by means of an appropriate fixture or the like. Panel
1 of such a construction enhances the freedom of selection of
15 engagement positions by far and hence is capable of exercising
a function as a service wall which satisfies heterogeneous and
on-demand requests of workers properly. Since the structures
11 making a pair face each other, the interior equipment B can
engage a crossed piece la on either or both of the obverse and
20 reverse sides of panel 1 and mutual interference between
fixtures and the like hooked on the obverse and reverse sides
can effectively be avoided. It is possible to employ
appropriate forms of engagement including an engaging
structure utilizing a hook-shaped fixture, and a fitting
25 structure utilizing a clip-shaped or clamp-shaped fixture to
fit the interior equipment to the crosspieces of latticework.
CA 02410822 2002-11-27
26
Examples of interior equipment B include interior equipment
having a work surface such as a whiteboard, interior equipment
having a display function such as a tagboard, bulletin board,
display panel and sign, interior equipment having a storage
function such as a cabinet, shelf, sorter and storage shelf, a
receptacle box, and a switch. Where an auxiliary panel is
disposed relative to panel 1 to form a T-shaped arrangement,
the panel 1 itself serves as interior equipment B.
Since panel 1 allows interior equipment B to be
engaged with or secured to the panel 1 at an apprapriate
position, the number of chances of presenting ideas or
thinking processes at an informal stage as well as of
displaying or presenting formally can be increased, which is
helpful in stimulating and activating creative works.
Particularly where the interior equipment calls for electric
power, the effect provided by the latticework structure is
enhanced synergistically since wiring Ca can be led out
through a square defined in the latticework.
Further, it is effective that furniture to be
disposed in butting relation to the facing part of panel 1,
e.g., storage furniture 10 shown in Fig. 10, such as a panel
shelf or a cabinet, is provided with a latticework 10a
assuming the same phase as and having an equal pitch to
latticework la for engagement to be concealed by the furniture
10 when it is disposed in butting relation to the panel 1.
This is because the latticework 10a of the furniture 10
CA 02410822 2002-11-27
27
exercises the engagement function instead of the latticework
la even when the latticework la of the panel 1 is covered. Of
course, such a compensating function may be any other function
than the engagement function as long as the functional
sections of the furniture are equivalent to those of the panel
1. Such an arrangement is effective particularly where the
functional sections are dispersed over the entire face of
panel 1.
Meanwhile, the equipment according to the subject
embodiment allows use of a variety of furniture articles
regardless of building modules. Representatives of such
building modules are 3600 mm and 3200 mm on a basis of pillar
grid. Partition panel 1 usually employs a standardized width
of 900 mm, which is a divisor of the former if the panel 1 is
compliant therewith, or a standardized width of 800 mm, which
is a divisor of the latter if the panel 1 is compliant
therewith. There are various standardized widths, such as 400
mm, 800 mm, 900 mm, 1000 mm, 1200 mm, 1400 mm, 1600 mm and
1800 mm, which are compliant with modules for the top surface
of a desk or table forming a work surface, a cabinet, a human
body and paper products. Since contemporary offices
accommodate a number of intermingled furniture articles
compliant with different modules, it is undeniable that when,
for example, a furniture article of 800 mm width or 1600 mm
width is disposed in butting relation to a panel face formed
of joined panels 1 of 900 mm width, slight irregularity and
CA 02410822 2002-11-27
28
unnatural gaps are formed therebetween.
In contrast, the subject embodiment permits use of a
combination of panel 1 compliant with a building module of a
multiple of 900 mm and furniture articles compliant with
different modules for human body and paper products.
Even when a gap is defined between an end of panel 1
and an end of a furniture article or between a joint between
panels 1 and an end of a furniture article as in the case
where an existing light-shielding panel is used, the
visibility of the gap is low and, hence, the gap is not so
tangible, since the presence of panel 1, which is semi-
transparent, is not felt so much. That is, panel 1 used in
the subject embodiment allows indefinite alignment with a
building module thereby making it possible to enhance the
sharing and interchangeability of furniture articles. This is
represented by the relation between interior equipment B and
panel l shown in Fig. 9 or the relation between locker R and
panel 1r shown in Fig. 4. When a gap is formed, the gap can
be positively utilized as a space for installation of a switch,
a fire extinguisher or the like.
The width of each square defined in the latticework
of panel 1 used in the subject embodiment is set to 100 mm as
already described because this size accommodates to modules
sized to multiples of 100 mm for many conventional partition
panels and furniture articles. For this reason, even when a
difference of a multiple of 100 mm in widthwise dimension is
CA 02410822 2002-11-27
29
formed between joined panels and joined furniture articles,
the other end of the joined furniture articles can always be
positioned as conforming to a crossed piece of the latticework
of panel 1, with the result that incongruity resulting from a
module difference is cancelled effectively.
While one embodiment of the present invention has
been described, specific features of the present invention are
not limited to those of the foregoing embodiment.
For example, it is possible to employ an area layout
such that work areas are arranged so as to surround a shared
area and that traffic between each work area and the shared
area is possible.
Guide member 4 of a loop or partial loop shape may
have a function of being fitted to a panel 1 positioned in any
vertical plane radially extending through the center of an arc
foamed by the guide member 4 within the effective fitting
range of the guide member 4 by any appropriate means. Such a
configuration enables free selection of any desired fitting
direction of panel 1.
As other means for avoiding formation of a gap
between a panel and furniture due to a difference between
modules with which the panel and the furniture, respectively,
are compliant, such means is effective that one of the panel
and the furniture is provided with a size adjustment function
capable of compensating for the gap.
It is also effective that the visibility through the
CA 02410822 2002-11-27
panel is rendered variable. In this respect, an arrangement
is effective which is capable of driving crossed pieces of the
latticework like a louver or which is capable of indirectly
adjusting the visibility through the panel by varying the
5 luminous intensity inside or outside a residence space.
If the furniture is semi-transparent, disclosure of
local documents is facilitated so that the context of the
whole office can be known more effectively.
Further, it is effective that the guide member is
10 provided with a lighting instrument on the upper or lower side
thereof. In this case the ceiling or the floor is illuminated
as reflecting the guide member and, hence, the guide member
becomes more effective as a guidepost.
Other features may also be modified variously
15 without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
Industrial Applicability
The present invention, which is of the arrangement
applicable to offices or the like as described above, is
20 capable of effectively realizing the provisions of diversified
space functions on a use-by-use basis, semi-transparently
screened spaces and a seamless space layout, thereby markedly
raising the efficiency of a knowledge-intensive organization.
