Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
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SPACE DIVISION SYSTEM WITH TECHNOLOGY
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This international application is based upon and claims priority of United
States
Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/405,011 filed September 4, 2002.
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
Not applicable.
REFERENCE TO A MICROFISI-IE APPENDIX
Not applicable.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
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, and
data storage.
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
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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 exceptiotrof
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.
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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
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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 fox 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 fixrther, although these systems may involve lighting
controllable by a
workspace user, many environmental functions remain centrally controlled,
often in locations
substantially xemote 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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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 January 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,SOS issued April 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.
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SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
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
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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
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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 inter~'onnecting 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.
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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.
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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 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.
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
I~evlar~ brand fiber.
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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 fiuther, 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.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING
The invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 is an example embodiment of one space divider within a space division
system with technology in accordance with the invention, with the space
divider hung from a rail
system having communications, and with the space divider displaying certain
SSL lighting
technology;
FIG. 2 is a plan view of an office environment showing the space division
system
in accordance with the invention, in various configurations;
FIG. 3 is a side elevational view of the system, showing the space divider
with 3D
translucency, and with the use of stretch material;
FIG. 4 is an end view of the space divider of FIG. 3, showing material
characteristics and taken along section lines 4-4 of FIG. 3;
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FIG. 5 illustrates a space divider in accordance with the invention, utilizing
what
is characterized as "cattle mattress" material, with FIG. 5 being a side
elevational view;
FIG. 6 is a sectional end view, taken along section lines 6-6 of FIG. S, for
purposes of showing material characteristics;
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of two curved space dividers of the space
division
system in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 8 is partial sectional view of the bottom and top detail of the space
dividers
in FIG. 7, taken along section lines 8-8 of FIG. 7;
FIG. 8A is an end view of an alternative embodiment for an articulated bottom
which may be utilized with the space dividers of FIG. 7;
FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the alternative embodiment illustrated in
FIG.
8A;
FIG. 9 is an end sectional view of a section of the space dividers shown in
FIG. 7,
taken along section lines 9-9 of FIG. 7;
FIG. 10 is a section of the junction between the adjoining space dividers
shown in
FIG. 7, and taken along section lines 10-10 of FIG. 7;
FIG. 11 is a "close up" sectional view of an end portion of a wall of the
space
division system in accordance with the invention, illustrating the use of 3D
translucent material,
and also showing power/communication cables extending through a pre-woven
pocket;
FIG. 12 is a "close up" sectional view of the junction of the two space
dividers in
FIG. 7, illustrating the use of 3D translucent material, and also showing
power/communication
cables extending through the pre-woven portion of the pocket;
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FIG. 13 is a "close up" sectional view of an end portion of the wall shown in
FIG. 7, with the space divider utilizing "cattle mattress" material, and with
power/communication cables from the rail system extending through the pre-
woven pocket;
FIG. 14 is a "close up" sectional view of the junction of two space dividers
utilizing the "cattle mattress" material, and also showing the
powerlcommunication cables
extending through the pre-woven pocket;
FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of one of the space dividers of the space
division system in accordance with the invention, illustrating the use of
internal LED light
technology;
FIG. 16 is a sectional end view of details of the internal LED light
technology of
FIG. 15, taken along section lines 16-16 of FIG. 15, and illustrating the
concept of utilizing a
pattern having a flexibility of location for color wash or signaling, and
further illustrating the
concept of channel voids being integral to the fabric;
FIG. 17 is a side elevational view of a partition panel of the space division
system
in accordance with the invention, illustrating another arrangement for use of
internal LED light
technology;
FIG. 18 is a sectional end view of a portion of the space divider shown in
FIG. 17,
taken along section lines 18-18 of FIG. 17;
FIG. 19 is a side elevational view of space dividers of the space division
system in
accordance with the invention, illustrating another configuration of the
internal LED light
technology utilized with the space dividers;
FIG. 20 is a sectional end view of a portion of the space divider illustrated
in FIG.
19, taken along section lines 20-20 of FIG. 19;
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FIG. 21 is a side elevational view of a space divider of the space division
system
in accordance with the invention, and illustrating another embodiment of the
use of internal LED
light technology with the space divider;
FIG. 22 is a sectional end view showing a portion of the space divider of FIG.
21,
taken along section lines 22-22 of FIG. 21;
FIG. 23 is an alternative sectional end view taken from FIG. 21, and showing
the
use of the LED light technology in a manner which may be important for
emergency directional
lighting, and illustrating the usev of internal LED lighting on both sides of
a space divider;
FIG. 24 is a side elevation view of a space divider of the space division
system in,
accordance with the invention, and illustrating the use of internal LED
technology with arrows;
FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of a space divider of the space division
system
in accordance with the invention, and showing the use of external LED light
technology, so as to
provide a "color wash" along one side of the space divider;
FIG. 26 is a sectional end view of the space divider illustrated in FIG. 25,
and
taken along section lines 26-26 of FIG. 25;
FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of space dividers of the space division
system in
accordance with the invention, and illustrating the use of the space dividers
with power and data
storage;
FIG. 28 is a side elevational view of the use of space dividers of the space
division system in accordance with the invention, and further showing the use
of SSL task
lighting technology with the space dividers;
FIG. 29 is a front elevational view, illustrating the task lighting technology
of
FIG. 28;
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FIG. 30 is a perspective view showing a curved space divider, and further
showing the use of task lighting technology with the space divider;
FIG. 31 is a side elevational view of space dividers-of the space division
system in
accordance with the invention, and showing DC low voltage technologies
associated with the
space dividers;
FIG. 32 is a side elevation view of space dividers of the space division
system in
accordance with the invention, illustrating various office environment
technologies incorporated
with the space dividers, and further illustrating the use of Velcro clips on
attachment points;
FIG. 33 is a side elevational view of space dividers of the space division
system i~
accordance with the invention, showing the space dividers with use of
technology in a temporary
work or gathering space, where the technology may comprise data storage
switches, headphones,
projection screens and the like;
FIG. 34 is a top plan view of a mockup office environment similar to that of
FIG.
2, but showing the use of a projector and screen with one of the
configurations of the space
dividers;
FIG. 35 is a plan view of one embodiment of a shape of space dividers of the
space division system in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 36 is a plan view of a further embodiment of the use of space dividers of
the
space division system in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 37 is a plan view of a still further embodiment of the use of the
technology
curtains of the space division system in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 38 is a plan view of a particular configuration of the space dividers
characterized as a "flutter" form;
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FIG. 39 is a plan view of a further embodiment of a "flutter" form
configuration
of the space dividers;
FIG. 40 is a plan view of a configuration of the space dividers, with the
configuration illustrating positions of individual and collective space, and
with FIG. 40
specifically illustrating a "quad-place" configuration;
FIG. 41 is a plan view of a further embodiment of a "quad-place"
configuration,
with the embodiments of FIGS. 40 and 41 showing individual and collective
space, and moving
to more collectivity with a less flexible central passageway, where the space
grows so as to
accommodate group work;
FIG. 42 is a plan view of space dividers of the space division system in
accordance with the invention, in a configuration which illustrates a
"triplace" configuration,
having three spaces;
FIG. 43 is a plan view of an alternative embodiment, illustrating a single
space
configuration;
Fig. 44 is a plan view of a third alternative embodiment, illustrating a
configuration with two spaces;
FIG. 45 is a perspective view of a translucent partition panel of the space
division
system in accordance with the invention, in use;
Fig. 46 is a perspective view of a user employing a control wand for purposes
of
reconfiguring control relationships among technologies associated with the
space division
system, with the user working on control relationships associated with
activation of LED
technologies on the space dividers;
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FIG. 47 illustrates a perspective view of a user employing the control wand
for
purposes of working on control relationships associated with the task lighting
technologies of the
space division system;
FIG. 48 is a perspective view of a control wand which may be utilized in
accordance with the invention;
FIG. 49 is a plan view of the control wand of FIG. 48;
FIG. 50 is a front elevational view of the control wand of FIG. 48; and
FIG. 51 is a perspective view of an arrangement of a partition panel of the
space
division system in accordance with the invention, using task lighting
technologies in an
arrangement which could be employed for a library, study hall, restaurant or
similar
environment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
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
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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 ~Cnown 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
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associated with the space dividers can be utilized to provide wayfmding.
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 inve~ition 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
f~r
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 FIG. 1, the particular example of the space division system 100
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illustrated therein shows a space divider 102 vertically suspended from a rail
system 104. The
rail system 104 includes a rail 106 with a pair of hanger clips 108 which are
releasably secured to
the rail 106 and capable of being moved along a continuum of the-l~ength of
the rail 106. Support
rods 110 depend downwardly from the hanger clips 108 and are secured to the
space divider 102.
Preferably, the support rods 108 are adjustable in length so that the height
of the space divider
102 may also be adjustable. Connection of the support rods 110 to the space
divider 102 may be
accomplished by any number of suitable means. For example, the lower
terminating ends of the
support rods 110 may be located within grommet holes (not shown) at the top
portion of the
space divider 102. Such grommet holes may be spaced apart in a manner so as to
provide
variation in the location of interconnections of the support rods 110 to the
space divider 102.
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 Serial No. 60/408,149, entitled "Rail System" and filed
September 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,
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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 Serial No. 60/408,149, entitled
"Rail System" and
filed on September 4, 2002.
FIG. 2 illustrates a plan view of an office environment showing various
configurations of space dividers of a space division system according to the
invention, in
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differing configurations. For example, FIG. 2 illustrates use of a wall
curtain 130 having
somewhat of a "hooked" configuration. A further space divider 132 is
illustrated as showing a
series of "S-shaped" configurations, which may be utilized to provide a series
of computer
workstations or the like. Conference tables 134 are illustrated as being
somewhat enclosed
through the use of the space dividers 130, 132.
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 FIG. 2 can provide for various types of spaces. With
the interconnection of
space dividers such as 130, 132 and 140, 142, the interconnections can be
provided through the
use of splines. The spline interconnections are illustrated within the
drawings. With the spline
interconnections, reconfigurations of the various space dividers is not
limited to movement along
specific line segments. Instead, with the use of the splines, movement can
occur with respect to
the space dividers and the configurations to configurations having a curve of
any reasonable
radius.
FIG. 3 illustrates a side-elevation view of a space divider in accordance with
the
invention. FIG. 4 illustrates a partial sectional end view of the same. With
reference to FIGS. 3
and 4, the space divider 150 may be comprised of a translucent and stretchable
material. FIG. 4
illustrates how the material 152 may be woven into the wall configuration. The
space divider
150 may also have a power batten 154 positioned at the top thereof, for
purposes of carrying
power such as low voltage DC power. The power batten 154 may provide power to
a DC power
cable 156 or, alternatively, an AC power cable 158. The DC power cable 156 may
carry DC low
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voltage power and is accessible through power batten openings 160. The power
batten openings
160 would be accessible to internal linear voids existing within the three-
dimensional knitting of
the main body 150. The linear voids are illustrated as voids 162 iirFIGS. 3
and 4.
FIG. 5 illustrates another space divider 170 which may be formed of a woven
fabric material. For example, one type of woven material which may be utilized
is commonly
referred to in the industry as "cattle mattress" material. The cattle mattress
material of the space
divider 170 provides linearly directed pockets 172 which may be segmented by
the use of
brackets 174, as illustrated in FIG. 6.
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of two curved space dividers, forming a space
division system 180. The space division system 180 includes a first space
divider 182 and a
second space divider 184. In general, FIG. 7 illustrates a structural
configuration which may be
achieved with respect to aesthetic curvature, through the use of the space
dividers 182, 184.
Also, FIG. 7 illustrates use of not only the rails 106, but also the use of a
cross rail 186. The
configuration of a cross rail 186, with the use of vertically disposed
partitions, is described in the
commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 60/408,149,
entitled "Rail
System" and filed on September 4, 2002.
FIG. 8 illustrates a sectional end view of the space divider 184. This view
shows
the structural batten 112 at the top end thereof, with the fabric extending
downwardly therefrom.
Linear or substantially horizontal voids 188 are provided at spaced-apart
intervals downwardly
along the space divider 184.
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
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provides for "shape holding" for the space dividers of the space division
system 100. In a
particular example illustrated in FIG. 8, the weighted insert 190 may be a
tubular section 192
fitted within the hem 120, and filled with material such as sand.
FIG. 8A is similar to FIG. 8, but shows the lower hem 120 as capturing a
tubular
insert 192. The tubular 'insert 192 may be a flexible sheath 194 consisting of
rubber or the like.
The sheath 194 may be of relatively substantial weight in and of itself or,
alternatively, may be
weighted by the use of sand or other materials carried within the sheath 194.
The weighted insert
192 can include an end tab 196 which may be interconnected to a cooperating
recess or similar
connecting means in the weighted insert 192 associated with an adjacent space
divider 184. In
this manner, the weighted inserts of adjacent space dividers may be
interconnected together.
FIG. 9 is a sectional end view (taken along section lines 9-9 of FIG. 7)
showing
an end portion of the space divider 184. In this particular configuration, a
power batten 200
extends downwardly so as to form an end hem of the space divider 184. A low
voltage DC
power cable 202 may be extended downwardly through the power batten 200. In
addition, it is
also possible to extend a communication cable 204 through the batten 200. The
batten 200 is
formed by taking the space divider 184 and turning it rearward upon itself,
and then connecting
the end of the space divider 206 to another portion of the space divider 184
through the use of a
spring clip 208 or a similar releasable securing means.
FIG. 10 illustrates an interconnection between the space divider 182 and 184
which may be employed in accordance with the invention. In this particular
embodiment, a
power batten 210 (having communication cables 204) is formed at the
intersection of the space
dividers 182 and 184. The space dividers 182 and 184 are releasably coupled
together through
the use of a pair of spring clips 208.
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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.
FIG. 11 is a close up section of the end portion of the space divider 184,
similar in
form to FIG. 9. However, FIG. 11 further illustrates the use of 3D translucent
material for the
space divider 184. Further, FIG. 11 illustrates communication cables 212 which
may extend
through a pre-woven pocket 214 of the translucent space divider 184.
FIG. 12 illustrates a "close up" view of the intersection between the space
dividers
182, 184. FIG. 12 is a view similar in scope to FIG. 10, but further
illustrates
power/communication cables 216 extending through pre-woven pockets 218 of the
space
dividers 182, 184.
FIG. 13 is a close up section view of an end portion of the space divider 184
(similar to FIG. 11), but illustrating the space divider 184 as comprising a
woven fabric material
220. Various types of woven materials may be utilized as material 220. For
example, in the
particular embodiment described and illustrated herein, the woven material 220
may be a
material which is characterized as "cattle mattress" material. FIG. 14 is a
close up section
similar in scope to the close up section illustrated in FIG. 12, but showing
the two space dividers
182, 184 as employing cattle mattress material 220.
FIG. 15 is an elevational view of space dividers 230. More specifically, the
space
dividers 230 include a series of internal linear voids 232 through which
linear LED lighting
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strips may be inserted. Referring to both FIGS. 15 and 16, such an LED
lighting strip is
illustrated in FIG. 16 as LED strip 234. LED strip 234 will have a sequential
series of LED
lights 236 extending along the lighting strip 234. The lighting stripw234 will
be positioned within
the linear void 232. For purposes of carrying other elements, such as power
cables or
communication cables, additional linear voids, such as linear voids 23~ and
240, may also be
horizontally located within the space dividers 230. FIG. 15 also illustrates
the use of a series of
LED power supplies 242 which may be connected to LED power lines 234. In turn,
the LED
power lines 234 may be connected in any appropriate manner to the LED lighting
strips 236.
Further, additional power may be provided, such as with the utilization of a
12-volt DC utility
power supply line 246.
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
intercomlections may also be employed with the space dividers 230, such as
Internet connections
and the like. FIG. 17 is a side elevational view of a similar set of space
dividers 250. The
sections 250 are similar to the sections 230 previously described with respect
to FIG. 15. In
addition, these sections carry LED power supplies 242 and LED power lines 244,
in addition to a
DC power line 246. However, as illustrated in FIG. 18, the LED lighting strips
260 are turned in
a different direction from the LED lighting strips 234 illustrated in FIG. 16.
In this manner, the
actual light intensity and light diffusion at the opposing surfaces of the
space dividers 250 will be
different than that of the sections 230. Further, FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate
the use of two LED
lighting strips 260.
FIG. 19 is a further embodiment of a pair of space dividers 270, with FIG. 19
showing a side elevational view thereof. With respect to FIGS. 19 and 20, a
series of LED
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power supplies 242 are shown, interconnected to LED power lines 244.
Correspondingly, a DC
power line 246 is also illustrated. With the space dividers 270, linear voids
272 are provided,
one of which carries an LED lighting strip 274 having the substantially "flat"
configuration
illustrated in FIG. 20. In this particular configuration, a differing light
intensity and light
dispersion will be seen on the left side surface of the space divider 270 (as
viewed in FIG. 20),
while a relatively opaque view will be found from the right side of the space
divider 270 (again
as viewed in FIG. 20).
FIGS. 21, 22 and 23 illustrate similar space dividers utilizing LED internal
lighting technology. FIG. 21 illustrates space dividers 290, having linear
voids 292 positioned at
the lower portion thereof. As illustrated in FIG. 22, each of the linear voids
292 carries a flat-
configured LED lighting strip 296 facing toward the left side of the space
divider 290 illustrated
in FIG. 22. Alternatively, FIG. 23 is similar in form to FIG. 22, and
illustrates the upper LED
flat-configured lighting strip 298 as facing to the right side of the space
divider 290, while the
lower LED flat-configured lighting strip 298 faces toward the left side of the
space divider 290.
Again, the particular light intensity, diffusion and color "wash" which will
be associated with the
space dividers 290 will be dependent upon the spacing and the configuration of
the LED lighting
strips. It should be understood that the lighting strip configurations
described herein are merely
examples of those which may be utilized with a space division system in
accordance with the
invention. Numerous other LED lighting strip configurations could be utilized,
without
departing from the spirit and scope of the novel concepts of the invention.
FIG. 24 illustrates a pair of space dividers 300 having a linear or horizontal
void
302 wherein an LED lighting strip 304 is embedded. The LED lighting strip 304
includes a
series of arrows which can be utilized for emergency directional lighting, and
may be
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sequentially "pulsed" so as to illustrate a direction of egress for emergency
evacuation. For
purposes of emergency directional lighting, various additional electrical
equipment may be
required. For example, it is not uncommon for electrical and otherbuilding
codes and
regulations to require the use of separate power sources for emergency
lighting. In such event,
such power sources may be required to be electrically interconnected with the
LED lighting strip
304. Also, the lighted arrows of the LED lighting strip 304 may be utilized
for purposes other
than emergencies. As an example, the arrows of the LED lighting strip 304 may
be utilized to
provide "wayfmding" for purposes of directing visitors to the commercial
interior to appropriate
locations within the interior, as well as for purposes of emergencies. Along
with other
appropriate power and lighting equipment, the arrows of the LED lighting strip
304 may be
utilized, for example, to direct visitors in a library to appropriate book
classification sections.
Numerous other wayfmding uses may also employ the use of arrows or similar
directional
indicators of the LED lighting strip 304. For example, and as earlier
mentioned, lighting may be
utilized for indication of external and internal situations. For example,
lighting may be
associated with the space dividers in a manner so as to indicate whether an
individual is "in" a
particular workspace.
FIGS. 25 and 26 illustrate a pair of space dividers 310, with LED lighting
technology utilized externally of the space dividers 310. More specifically,
the space dividers
310 include a curtain 314 mounted from the top portion of the space divider
310. Depending
forwardly and horizontally from the space dividers 310 is an LED lighting
strip support 316,
which may be appropriately secured to a linear void 312 of the space dividers
310. Positioned
downwardly from the support 316 is a series of LED lights. The LED lights may
be of
appropriate colors, and will provide what may be characterized as an external
"wash" and a color
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"wash" over the lower portion of the side surfaces of the space dividers 310,
below the curtain
314. This color wash can be modified in intensity and with respect to
diffusion dependent upon
the intensity and color of the LED lights 318, and of the particular materials
from which the
space dividers 310 are constructed.
FIG. 27 illustrates a pair of space dividers 320 showing a low voltage DC
power
line 328, communications cabling 326, AC power 322 and AC power line 324. The
AC power
line 324 terminates in a pair of electrical receptacles 330. A computer 332
may be energized
through the electrical receptacles 330. Data and communication signals may be
transmitted from
the computer 332 through a communications signal junction box or modem 334,
and outwardly
through the communications cabling 326. In this manner, the space dividers 320
provide power
and networking technology. FIG. 28 is a side elevational view of space
dividers 340, similar in
structure to the space dividers 320 illustrated in FIG. 27. In this particular
instance, the space
dividers 340 are illustrated showing use of wall-connected task lighting
technology. The
configuration employs a task light 342 illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29. The
task light 342 utilizes
low voltage DC power and LED lighting technology. As illustrated in FIGS. 28
and 29, the LED
task light 342 includes a rectangular LED marker 344 at the terminus of the
task light 342.
Extending downwardly from the marker 344 is a rigid foam core '346. The rigid
foam core 346
is adjacent a flexible joint 348. A fabric cover 350 extends downwardly and
angularly from the
flexible joint 348. The fabric cover 350 is interconnected to an appropriate
securing bracket 352,
which is secured to the space divider 340 by appropriate means. For example,
Velcro or a
similar securing means could be employed. The task light 342 may be utilized
to provide
appropriate light for use of a computer screen 354.
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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.
FIG. 30 illustrates a curved configuration of a space divider 360 showing the
use
of the task light 342 therewith. FIG. 31 is an elevational view of a pair of
space dividers 370,
showing the use of DC low voltage technologies with a pair of task lights 342.
FIG. 31 further
shows the energizing of a coffee maker 343, through the power supplied to the
space dividers
370. FIG. 32 illustrates another pair of space dividers 380, showing the space
dividers 380 in use
in an office environment with technologies. For example, this office
environment may include a
telephone 382, MP3 player 384, laptop 386 and fan 388. FIG. 33 illustrates
another pair of space
dividers 390, showing use with technology which may be associated with a
temporary work or
gathering space. For example, the configuration illustrated in FIG. 33
includes a phone 382, a
set of wireless headphanes 384, teleconferencing screen 386 and various other
accessories.
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FIG. 34 is substantially similar to FIG. 2, but further illustrates the use of
a
projector 400 in use with a screen 402 secured to the space divider 130. The
foregoing drawings
illustrate interconnections of various types of technological and otlrer
functional accessories
through the space dividers. Further, the drawings illustrate the use of velcro
clips at attachment
points. As earlier stated, data storage devices and switches can also be
employed with the space
dividers.
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.
FIGS. 35, 36 and 37 illustrate alternative embodiments and configurations of
space dividers 410, 420 and 430, respectively, and illustrate various plan
views of these space
dividers so as to provide visual privacy. These space dividers may be in the
form of what is
characterized as "technology curtains," and create flexible spaces for
individual and small group
uses. In addition, the enclosures provided by these space dividers exhibit
daily flexibility for
project teams. FIGS. 38 and 39 show other configurations of the technology
curtains, identified
as technology curtains 432 and 434. These technology curtains can be
characterized as being
configured in a "flutter" form configuration. FIGS. 38 and 39 show two
alternative embodiments
of the "flutter" form configuration. With these configurations of the
technology curtains,
relatively more efficient place making is provided. In addition, these
configurations essentially
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maximize characteristics which tend to be unique to "hung" fabric. These
arrangements also
afford a greater variety of space division, and also more or a greater spatial
"sense." In addition,
these "flutter" form configurations create more receptacle spaces than what
are characterized as
"booth" walls. The "flutter" form configurations also provide relatively
greater flexible niche
scale. In general, the embodiments of FIGS. 35, 36 and 37 show movement from
"shared" to
"separate" configurations. The enclosures formed by the space dividers within
these drawings
provide for substantial flexibility for project teams and the like. Still
further, the configurations
in FIGS. 38 and 39 provide for individuals' space along edges, in addition to
collective action.
That is, adjacency is provided, but with relatively more privacy.
FIGS. 40 and 41 illustrate technology curtain configurations 436 and 438.
These
configurations may be characterized as "quad-place" configurations. In these
illustrations, the
spaces shown move collectively to a less flexible, central passageway which
grow so as to
accommodate group work. The configurations comprise technology curtains which
would
provide both visual privacy and sound absorption. Advantages associated with
"quad-place"
configurations relate to the responsiveness to fluid conditions of
collaborative work practices. In
addition, these configurations provide daily flexibility for project teams,
and can be grouped as
"sub-centers" around what may be characterized as a "silent center."
FIGS. 42, 43 and 44 illustrate the use of technology curtains 440, 442 and
444,
respectively, and exemplify what can be characterized as "triplace"
configurations. These
technology curtain configurations provide both visual privacy and sound
absorption. Benefits
include responsiveness to fluid conditions of collaborative work practices, in
addition to daily
flexibility for project teams. In addition, these triplace configurations can
be grouped as "sub-
centers" around a silent center. More specifically, FIG. 42 illustrates a
configuration having
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three spaces. Correspondingly, FIG. 44 illustrates a configuration with two
spaces, while FIG.
43 illustrates a single space configuration.
FIG. 45 illustrates the actual use of a translucent spare divider 450.
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 Serial No
60/374,012, entitled "Switching/Lighting Correlation System" and filed on
April 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, FIG.'46
illustrates a
user employing a control wand 460 (to be described in subsequent paragraphs
herein) for
purposes of establishing control of an LED lighting strip 462. FIG. 46 also
illustrates the
location of a wall-attached task light 464. These elements are associated with
a space divider
466. FIG. 47 is similar to FIG. 46, but further illustrates the user employing
the control wand
460 for purposes of establishing control of the task light 464. An example of
the control wand
460 is illustrated in FIGS. 48, 49 and 50. With reference thereto, the control
wand 460 may be
of an elongated configuration. At one end of the control wand 460 is a light
source 470 which,
preferably, would generate a substantially collimated beam of light. In
addition to light source
470, the control wand 460 may also include an infrared (IR) emitter 472, for
transmitting
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infrared transmission signals to corresponding IR receivers associated with
the LED lights 462 or
task light 464, in addition to switches or the like which may control these
functional accessories.
The control wand 460 may also include a trigger 47#; 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 Serial No.
60/374,012, entitled "Switching/Lighting Correlation System" and filed on
April 19, 2002.
Referring back to FIGS. 46 and 47, the user may employ the wand 460 to
transmit
signals to controllers (not shown) associated with the LED lights 462 and task
light 464. The
capability of essentially "programming" controlled relationships among the
various accessories
associated with the space division system 100 requires the capability of
transmitting and
receiving communication signals among the various functional accessories. In
this regard,
infrastructure systems may be employed. An example of such an infrastructure
system which
may be employed with the space division system 100 in accordance with the
invention is
described in detail in the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Serial No.
60/408,149, entitled "Rail System" and filed on September 4, 2002.
FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a particular configuration utilizing space
divider
500 in a curved configuration, with task lights 502. Such an arrangement could
be utilized
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within a library, study hall or restaurant configuration. Also, mention should
be made that space
divider 500, as well as other space divider configurations illustrated and
described herein, may
be utilized with various types of ceiling structures. One such ceiling
structure is illustrated in the
commonly assigned U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/166,03,
entitled'"Design for
Articulating Ceiling" and filed September 4, 2002.
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 fuxther, 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
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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. Kevlar0 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, Norilex~ 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
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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 b'e 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
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generally described in the commonly assigned U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Serial No.
601408,149, entitled "Rail System" and filed September 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
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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 ads 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.
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