US 5,628,257 AGranted

Furniture worksurface unit and method

AssigneeSteelcase Inc.

InventorsJohn P. Conner, Paul Haigh, James W. Ross, William C. Small, Bradley D. Youngs

Life of this patent

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Abstract

A furniture worksurface unit for desks, tables, computer supports, etc. has a unique modular construction, comprising a top assembly with a skeleton-like top frame and a worksurface skin mounted on the upper side thereof. Leg frames are attached to the opposite ends of the top frame, and support the worksurface unit freestanding on a floor surface. Inner and outer leg covers enclose the leg frames, and underbelly covers are provided to enclose any exposed portions of the lower side of the top frame to facilitate manufacturing the worksurface unit in different widths from common parts, and provide aesthetic flexibility. Removable edges are mounted on the sides of the top frame, and are provided in assorted shapes and sizes to construct various top configurations.

Claims8

Dependent claims

A worksurface unit, comprising:

a top having at least one side edge;
a support connected with said top and having a lower end thereof shaped for abutting support on a floor surface;
a removable edge shaped to mate with the side edge of said top, and including a normally upwardly facing surface having a first shape, and a normally downwardly facing surface having a second shape that is different from said first shape;
a fastener detachably connecting said edge to said top, and being symmetrically arranged to permit said edge to be connected to said top in an upside down orientation, with said second shape facing upwardly, to facilitate forming various top configuration;
and wherein
said top includes a marginal frame on which said edge is mounted;
said marginal frame includes horizontally oriented mounting apertures;
and
said fastener includes at least two pins shaded for close reception in said mounting apertures, and being mounted in said edge for axial rotation to facilitate mounting said edge in both orientations.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Facts

Application: 08/629,270Filed 8 Apr 1996 · division
Priority: 28 Oct 1994
Granted: 13 May 1997
Term ends: Not estimatedThe source records don’t support an estimate.

Classification6 codes

A47B 21/03
Tables or desks for office equipment, e.g. typewriters, keyboards: with substantially horizontally extensible or adjustable parts other than…
A47B 13/08
Details of tables or desks: table tops; Rims therefor
A47B 2037/005
Tables adapted for other particular purposes: tables specially adapted for laboratories
A47B 2200/0005
Tops: removable or adjustable front edges for desktop