ENVIRONMENTS

RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application is based on U.S. Provisional Application Serial No. 62/965,308, filed January 24, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and to which priority is claimed.

BACKGROUND

[0002] The present invention relates to modular furniture systems for use in group settings, for example classrooms, and for remote power applications for the same.

SUMMARY

[0003] In certain aspects, a power module includes a housing having an upper portion and a lower portion. The lower portion has at least one section with a first width representing the maximum width of the lower section. The upper portion has at least one section with a second width that is larger than the first width. A user charging circuit is positioned in the housing. An outlet is connected to the user charging circuit and accessible to a user. A battery is positioned in the housing. A module charging interface is connected to the battery.

[0004] In certain aspects, a modular furniture system for an environment includes a work table and a power module. The work table has a top and an opening formed in the top. The power module has a housing including an upper portion and a lower portion, a battery positioned in the housing, and a user charging interface connected to the battery and accessible on an exterior of the housing. The power module housing is configured so that the lower portion of the housing extends through the opening in the table and at least a portion of the upper portion of the housing engages the table around the opening to support the power module on the table. The power module is removable from the opening.

[0005] In certain aspects the modular furniture system includes a work table as described above and further comprises a base having a body, an upper surface, a channel extending from the upper surface into the body, and an opening formed in the upper surface, wherein the power module housing is configured so that the lower portion of the housing extends through the opening in the base and at least a portion of the upper portion of the housing engages the base around the opening to support the power module on the base.

[0006] In certain aspects, a modular furniture system for an environment includes a base having a body, an upper surface, a channel extending from the upper surface into the body, and an opening formed in the upper surface. A power module is configured to be removably supported by the base. The power module has a housing including an upper portion and a lower portion, a battery positioned in the housing, and a user charging interface connected to the battery. The power module housing is configured so that the lower portion of the housing extends through the opening in the base and at least a portion of the upper portion of the housing engages the base around the opening to support the power module on the base.

[0007] Certain aspects are directed to a remote power system for selective integration with a furniture component. The furniture component has a surface at least partially defining an opening. A power module has a housing including an upper portion and a lower portion, a battery positioned in the housing, and a user charging interface connected to the battery and accessible on an exterior of the housing. The power module housing is configured so that the lower portion of the housing extends through the opening in the furniture component and at least a portion of the upper portion of the housing engages the furniture component to support the power module in the opening.

[0008] Certain aspects are directed to a remote power system for selective integration with furniture components in a group environment. A plurality of furniture components each have a surface defining an opening. The plurality of furniture components include at least a first furniture component and a second furniture component having a configuration different than the first furniture component. A plurality of power modules each have a housing including an upper portion and a lower portion, a battery positioned in the housing, and a user charging interface connected to the battery and accessible on an exterior of the housing. The power module housing is configured to be slidably receivable in each of the openings.

[0009] Certain aspects are directed to a remote power system for selective integration with a furniture component. A power module housing includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion includes a handle. A user charging circuit is positioned in the housing. An outlet is connected to the user charging circuit and accessible to a user. The outlet is recessed from the handle. A battery positioned in the housing. A module charging interface is connected to the battery. The housing is configured to be supported on a surface or slidably engaged in a furniture component.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. l is perspective views of exemplary embodiments of chairs.

[0011] FIG. 2 is exploded views of the chairs of FIG. l.

[0012] FIG. 3 is perspective views of the chairs of FIG. l in a stacked configuration.

[0013] FIG. 4A is a side view of a chair of FIG. l in a first position.

[0014] FIG. 4B is a side view of a chair of FIG. l in a second position.

[0015] FIG. 4C is a side view of a chair of FIG. 1 in a third position.

[0016] FIG. 4D is a top perspective view of an example of a chair shell.

[0017] FIG. 4E is a side view of the chair shell of FIG. 4D.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a first work surface.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a second work surface.

[0020] FIG. 7 is a perspective view a third work surface.

[0021] FIG. 8A is a perspective view of the second work surface of FIG. 6, stacked in a first orientation. [0022] FIG. 8B is a perspective view of the second work surface of FIG. 6, stacked in a second orientation.

[0023] FIG. 8C is a perspective view of a frame of the work surface in FIG. 6.

[0024] FIG. 9A is a perspective view of the second work surface of FIG. 6, illustrating a slot.

[0025] FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the third work surface of FIG. 7, illustrating a slot.

[0026] FIG. 10A is a perspective view of the second work surface of FIG. 6 in the second orientation, illustrating hexagon extensions.

[0027] FIG. 10B is a perspective view of the second work surface of FIG. 6 in the first orientation, illustrating hexagon extensions.

[0028] FIG. 11 is perspective views of multi-purpose bases supporting a board.

[0029] Fig. 12A is perspective views of the multi-purpose base of FIG. 11, supporting at least one user.

[0030] FIG. 12B is a perspective view of the multi-purpose base of FIG.11, supporting a device.

[0031] FIG. 12C is a perspective view of multi-purpose bases of FIG. 11 in a stacked configuration.

[0032] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the multi-purpose base of FIG. 11 positioned beneath the second work surface of Fig.6, illustrating an outlet on the multi-purpose base.

[0033] FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the multi-purpose base of FIG. 11.

[0034] FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a wall mounted display system. [0035] FIG. i6 is a perspective view of an environment containing modular furniture and remote power modules.

[0036] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a power module.

[0037] FIG. 18 is a front view of the power module of FIG. 17.

[0038] FIG. 19 is a side view of the power module of FIG. 17.

[0039] FIG. 20 is a top view of the power module of FIG. 17.

[0040] FIG. 21 is a bottom view of the power module of FIG. 17.

[0041] FIG. 22 is a perspective view of a power module placed in a base.

[0042] FIG. 23 is a sectional view of the power module and base of FIG. 22.

[0043] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a power module placed in a convertible table.

[0044] FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a power module placed in a furniture component having a grommet.

[0045] FIG. 26 is a side view of the power module, furniture component, and grommet of FIG. 25.

[0046] FIG. 27 is a sectional view of the furniture component and grommet of FIG. 25.

[0047] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of the grommet of FIG. 25.

[0048] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of power modules placed on charging modules.

[0049] FIG. 30 is a perspective view of power modules placed on a trolley of charging modules.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0050] Before any embodiments of the invention are explained in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the following drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways.

[0051] Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed to a family of modular products that can be used in a group environment, for example an educational environment. The products can be designed for easy storage and deployment in different configurations as needed by a user.

[0052] Certain aspects are directed to remote power units that are configured to provide power to a user. The remote power units can include one or more portable units. The portable units can include one or more rechargeable batteries that provide power to a user away from a main power supply, such as a wall outlet.

[0053] Certain aspects are directed to providing remote power options for users in group environments that can be integrated with furniture. Remote power can be provided by one or more mobile units and a common charging platform. The mobile units are accessible to a user, and can be self-supporting as well as configured to interface with one or more furniture components. The mobile units can be removably connected to a furniture component to provide convenient accessibility to a user.

[0054] FIGS. 1-3 show exemplary embodiments of a chair 100. These embodiments include, but are not limited to, a sled chair 100a, a castor or rolling chair 100b, a four legged chair 100c, a stacking chair (e.g., a high density stacking chair) tood, and a stool tooe. Each embodiment of chair looa-iooe includes a shell 104 and a frame 108. In the illustrated embodiment, the shell 104 is formed as a single piece and includes a seat 112, a transition portion 114, and a seat back 116. The transition portion 114 is curved and connects the seat 112 to the seat back 116. In the illustrated embodiment, a thickness of the transition portion 114 is substantially equivalent to the thickness of the seat 112 and the seat back 116. The transition portion 114 is substantially flat along a lateral surface. The shell 104 is coupled to the frame 108, which supports a weight of the shell 104 and a user 118 (FIGS. 4A-4C). [0055] As shown in FIG. 2, different embodiments of shells 104 correspond with each chair 100. These embodiments include, but are not limited to, a low back shell 104a and a high back shell 104b. In the illustrated embodiment, the low back shell 104a includes a height of the seat back 116 that is less than a height of the seat back 116 in the high back shell 104b. In the illustrated embodiment, the low back shell 104a is used with the stool looe, and the high back shell 104b is used with the remaining embodiments of the chair looa-iood. The low back shell 104a and the high back shell 104b may be used with any of the different embodiments of chairs looa-iooe. Each shell 104a, 104b is made from a rigid material (e.g., plywood, polymer, etc.). In the illustrated embodiment, the sled 100a, the stacking chair tood, and the stool tooe include a plywood shell 104a, 104b, and the rolling chair 100b and the four legged chair 100c include a polymer shell 104b. In other embodiments, the shell 104a, 104b associated with each chair looa-iooe may be formed from another material.

[0056] Different embodiments of frames 108 correspond with each chair 100. These embodiments include, but are not limited to, a wire frame 108a, a four leg core 108b, and a sled core 108c. Each frame io8a-io8c includes an upper end with a seat receiving portion 120 and legs 124 extending downwardly from the seat receiving portion 120. The shell 104a, 104b is coupled to the seat receiving portion 120. The wire frame 108a is formed from thin, rigid (e.g., metal) tubes or wires. The wire frame 108a may have different heights, so as to be used with the stacking chair tood and the stool tooe. The four leg core 108b and the sled core 108c are formed from a thicker material (e.g., a polymer). In the four leg core 108b, a bottom of each leg 124 contacts the floor and is independent of the remaining legs 124. In the sled core 108c, a rail 128 extends along each side (i.e., right and left from the view of the user 118) and connects two of the legs 124 together.

[0057] Arms 132 are coupled to the four leg core 108b and the sled core 108c. The arms 132 are formed as a single piece of material and are coupled to the seat receiving portion 120. The arms 132 provide a pair of armrests 136 configured to support a user’s arms. [0058] In the sled chair 100a, a sled base 140 is coupled to each rail 128 to provide additional support for the rails 128 against the ground and to raise the height of the sled core 108c so that it is consistent with the other chairs. In the rolling chair 100b, two castors 144 are coupled to each rail 128 of the sled core 108c, and raise the rail 128 above the ground. The casters 144 allow the chair 100b to roll along the ground. So that the height remains uniform, the caster 144 raise the sled core 108c off the ground substantially the same distance as the sled base 140.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 3, the chairs looa-iood are stackable with other chairs 100a- lood of the same style (i.e., a sled chair 100a is stackable with other sled chairs 100a). Conversely, chairs looa-iood are stackable with other chairs looa-iood of a different style (e.g., a sled chair 100a may stack with a four legged chair 100c). The rods of the wire frame 108a allow the stacking chair tood to fit together with other stacking chairs tood in a tight, high density arrangement. The height of a stack of stacking chairs tood is less than a height of a stack of another embodiment of chair 100 with an equal number of chairs 100 in the stack.

[0060] FIGS. 4A-4C show a user 118 seated in a four legged chair tood. In FIG. 4A, the chair tood is in a first or active position, where the seat back 116 is in a substantially vertical orientation, and is capable of supporting a portion of the user’s weight. In a second or back flex position (FIG. 4B), the transition portion 114 flexes relative to the seat 112 as the user’s weight on the seat back 116 increases. The lateral flatness and the curvature of the transition portion 114 permit the flexion. For example, the curvature can include a lower portion 150 with a concave curve relative to the user and an upper portion 152 with a convex curve relative to the user (FIGS. 4D-4E). The back flex position allows the user 118 to recline the seat back 116. An angle Q between the seat back 116 and the seat 112 increases as more weight is supplied by the user 118. In the illustrated embodiment, the angle Q that the seat back 116 reclines is between 6-12°. In other embodiments, the angle Q may be greater than 12 ⁰ or less than 6°. The curvature of the transition portion 114 also acts as a biasing member and returns the seat back 116 to the active position once the user 118 decreases the amount of weight on the seat back 116. In a third or twist position (FIG. 4C), the transition portion 114 and the seat back 116 twist relative to the seat 112 as the user applies a force to a single side of the seat back 116. The transition portion 114 is able to twist because of its localized lateral flatness and reduced lateral curvature relative to the seat back 116. An amount the transition portion 114 twists increases as the user 118 applies a greater force. This allows a user’s back to be supported by the seat back 116 as they turn toward either side (i.e., the user’s right or left). The biasing force from the curved transition portion 114 returns the seat back 116 to the active position once the user 118 turns back to the front. The active, back flex, and twist positions are applicable to any shell 104a, 104b and any chair looa-iooe, although only the four legged chair lood is shown.

[0061] FIGS. 5 shows a first work surface embodied as a four-leg table 200. The four leg table 200 includes a table top 202 having an upper surface and an opposite bottom surface. A set of four legs 204 are connected to the top 202 and extend from the bottom surface to support the base 202 on the ground. The legs 204 have an elongated U-shaped configuration. A slot 206 extends through the base from the upper surface to the bottom surface. The slot 206 can act as a hand-hold when moving the table 200 to different positions. The slot 206 can also be used as a conduit to run cords through the table, for example power, data, or display cords. The slot 206 can also be configured to accept a mobile power unit.

[0062] FIG. 6 shows a second work surface embodied as a convertible table 210. The convertible table includes an L-shaped top 212 having a first portion 214 and a second portion 216 extending approximately perpendicular to the first portion 214. The first portion 214 includes a major surface that is configured to be used as a sitting work surface. The second portion 216 includes a minor surface that is configured to be used as a standing work surface. A third portion 217 can transition between the first and second portions 214, 216. The three portions 214, 216, 217 can be formed as a single piece or one or more of the pieces can be separately formed and connected together.

[0063] The top 212 is connected to a frame 218 as shown in FIG. 8C. The frame 218 can extend along the first, second, and third portions 214, 216, 217 of the top 212. The frame 218 can be a substantially tubular member. The first end of the frame 218 includes two sets of legs that extend from the first portion 214 of the base 212 so that the table 210 has a substantially C-shaped configuration. The legs are positioned opposite, and extend substantially parallel to the second portion 216. The legs have an elongated U-shaped configuration with an inner portion 220 and an outer portion 222 connected by a bottom curved transition. The legs extend outwardly from the outer edge of the top 212 so that a distance Di between the leg inner portions 220 is larger than the width Wi of the base 212. The inner and outer portions 220, 222 are also offset from one another so that the outer portions 222 are spaced farther from the edge of the base 212 than the inner portions 220. The second end of the frame 218 includes a substantially u-shaped member 223 that extends along the second portion 216 of the top 212. Although shown as a unitary member, the frame 218 can also be formed in discrete pieces.

[0064] A slot 224 is positioned in the top 212, for example in the third portion 217. One or more projections 226 can extend into the slot 224.

[0065] FIG. 7 shows a third work surface embodied as a convertible occasional use table 230. The convertible table includes an L-shaped top 232 having a first portion 234 and a second portion 236 extending approximately perpendicular to the first portion 234. The first portion 234 includes a major surface that is configured to be used as a first support surface at a first height, for example approximately knee high. The second portion 236 includes a minor surface that is configured to be used as a second support surface having a greater height than the first support surface, for example approximately waist high. A third portion 237 can transition between the first and second portions 234, 236.

[0066] The top 232 can be connected to a frame 238 similar to the one shown in FIG. 8C and discussed above. The frame 238 includes legs that extend substantially parallel to the second portion 236 so that the table 230 has a substantially C-shaped configuration. The legs have an elongated U-shaped configuration with an inner portion 240 and an outer portion 242 connected by a bottom curved transition. The legs extend outwardly from the outer edge of the base 212 so that a distance D2 between the leg inner portions 240 is larger than the width W2 of the base 232. The inner and outer portions 240, 242 are also offset from one another so that the outer portions 242 are spaced farther from the edge of the base 212 than the inner portions 240.

[0067] A slot 244 is positioned in the top 232, for example in the third portion 237. One or more projections 246 can extend into the slot 244.

[0068] As shown in FIG. 8A, the convertible table 210 can be positioned in a first, or standing orientation where the second portion 216 is positioned substantially horizontal to a user and the first portion 214 is positioned substantially vertical to the user. The legs 218 extend along the ground and cooperate with the first portion 214 to support the second portion 216 for use as a standing desk or lectern surface. As best shown in FIG. 8B, the table 210 can be flipped by the user to a second, or seated orientation where the first portion 214 is substantially horizontal to a user and the second portion 216 is positioned substantially vertical to the user. In the second orientation the second portion 216 and the legs 218 contact the ground.

[0069] As also shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, the configuration of the frame 218 allows the table 210 to be stacked in both the first and second orientations without having to fully lift a second table over a first table. For example, a second table only needs to be raised by the thickness of the first table and slidably engage with the first table for stacking, with the legs extending outside of the width Wi of the table during stacking. The convertible occasional use table 230 can be positioned and stacked in a first orientation and a second orientation similar to the table 210.

[0070] As best shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B the slots 224, 244 can be used as a cable conduit. The slots 224, 244 can also be used to position the table 212 and the stool 232. The projections 226, 246 can be used as hangers to support bags or other articles.

[0071] FIGS. 10A and 10B show the bottom surface of the table 210. The bottom surface can include hexagon extensions 228 positioned in a honeycomb pattern across the bottom surface of the base 212. The hexagon extensions 228 can provide additional structural support to the first and second portions 214, 216. Additionally, the hexagon extensions can removably receive an accessory component 250, shown as a bag hook in the illustrated embodiment. The occasional use table 230 can include similar hexagon extensions.

[0072] FIGS. 11-13 show an exemplary embodiment of a multi-purpose base 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 300 is a molded plastic piece formed as an obround cylinder, although in other embodiments the base 300 may have another shape (rectangular prism, cylinder, ellipse, etc.) or may be formed from another material. The base 300 includes a flat upper surface 304 and a channel 308 that extends to an outer edge of the base 300. Aboard 312 (e.g., a whiteboard, a bulletin board, a chalk board, pin board, magnetic board, projection screen, etc.) is configured to be inserted into the channel 308 so that a useable surface 316 of the board 312 is substantially perpendicular to the upper surface 304. Extending the length of the channel 308 through the edge of the base 300 allows a board that is longer than the base 300 to be received within the channel 308. In some embodiments, display 320 (e.g. monitor, televisions, or other devices) may be mounted to the useable surface 316. The channel 308 includes a depth equal to at least approximately half a height of the base 300, which reduces the moment caused by a weight of the board, and reduces the likelihood that the base 300 and board 312 will tip over, but allows for stacking of the base 300.

[0073] As shown in FIG. 12A, at least one user 118 can position themselves on the upper surface 304, and the base 300 is capable of supporting the user’s weight. As shown in FIG. 12B, the upper surface 304 may also support other objects, like a laptop computer 324. Accordingly, the base 300 can act as a secondary seating surface and secondary work surface as needed.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the base 300 is light enough that a user may pick up, slide, or otherwise reposition the base 300 within a room. As shown in FIG. 12C, the base 300 includes a hollow interior (not shown), so that multiple bases 300 can be stacked together and stored while not in use.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 13, the base 300 can function as a charging station for portable devices (e.g., a laptop computer, a smartphone, etc.). A battery (not shown) is disposed within the hollow interior of the base 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the battery is electrically connected to an outlet 328 on the upper surface 304. In other embodiments, the outlet 328 may be disposed on a different surface. In some embodiments, the outlet 328 is a female plug, while in other embodiments the outlet 328 maybe a magnetic charger. The user connects a laptop computer 324, or other device, to the battery through the outlet 328, and charges the laptop computer 324. In some embodiments, the opening for the outlet can be used for other purposes, for example to act as a receptacle for pens, umbrellas, or other user items.

[0076] FIG. 14 is a sectional view of the base 300 showing the channel 308 in greater detail. The channel 308 is partially defined by opposing inner walls 330 that extend from the upper surface 304 and connect at a bottom 332. The bottom 332 is shown as curved, although a planar surface can also be used. The inner walls 330 converge toward one another in an upper portion of the channel 308 and then extend substantially parallel to one another. This creates a wider portion in the channel 308 opening so that it is easier for a user to place a board 312 in the channel 308.

[0077] In some embodiments, the battery is removed from the base 300 and so that it can be recharged or replaced. In other embodiments, the battery is fixed within the base, and is recharged while connected to the base.

[0078] FIG. 15 shows an exemplary embodiment of a wall mount system 400 for one or more display boards or screens 402. The wall mount system includes a rail 404 that is connected to a wall or other support surface. The rail 404 includes a series of projections 406 spaced to accommodate a series of boards 402. The projections 406 can include a base portion extending from the rail 404 and an outer flange sized larger than the based portion. The boards 402 include an opening 408 that is configured to be positioned over the projections 406. The boards 402 are hung on the projections 406 with the edges of the opening 408 resting on the base of the projection 406 and held in place by the larger flange. The boards 402 can be mounted on the rail 404 or positioned in a base 300 as shown in FIGS. 11-13.

[0079] FIGS. 16 depicts an exemplary embodiment of power modules 500 that can be utilized in an environment. Remote power and charging locations are created by placing the power modules 500 in a desired location. The power modules 500 are configured to interface with furniture components, illustrated as tables 502 and bases 504 in FIG. 16. Each of the tables 502 and bases 504 include one or more slots 506, 508 configured to receive a power module 500. The power modules 500 can be moved to different locations as needed by a user, and can be placed in one of the work surfaces 502 or bases 504, or be placed on other surfaces such as a floor.

[0080] In certain aspects, the power modules 500 can be slidably engageable with a furniture component. For example, at least a portion of the power module 500 can be tapered so that an interference fit can be formed between the power module 500 and the furniture component. The furniture component can be a table surface, base surface, chair surface, desk surface, or other residential or commercial furniture component or fixture.

[0081] As best shown in FIGS. 17-21, the power modules 500 can include a housing 510 having an upper portion 512 and a lower portion 514. The upper and lower portions 512, 514 can combine to have a substantially obround configuration, with the upper portion 512 having at least one outer dimension larger than the lower portion 514. The housing 510 can be formed as a single, unitary piece, or from multiple pieces that are connected together.

[0082] The upper portion 512 includes a rim 516 and an upper outer wall 518 that extends at an oblique angle form the rim 516 and inward toward the lower portion 514 of the housing 510. A slot 520 or other opening is formed in the upper wall 518 that can act as a handle for the user. The upper wall 518 at least partially defines an interior space, through which a user charging interface 522 is accessible.

[0083] As best shown in FIG. 20, the user charging interface 522 can include one or more outlet openings provided on a faceplate 526 through which outlets 528 are accessible to the user. The outlets 528 provide power ports to connect user devices, such as chargers for a laptop, tablet, or phone. The outlets 528 can include any combination of standard power outlets, such as prong outlets, pin outlets (e.g., 30 pin), and USB outlets. An ON/OFF button 530 and charge indicator lights 532 can also extend through the faceplate 526. The outlets 528, ON/OFF button 530, and charge indicator 532 can be connected to one or more circuit boards 534 positioned in the housing 510, as shown in FIG. 23. These circuit boards 534 can be configured to manage a user’s charging by performing power conversions and implementing safety protocols.

[0084] The lower portion 514 includes one or more sidewalls 536 and a bottom 538 that define an interior chamber. The interior chamber is used to house one or more rechargeable batteries 540. A module charging interface 542, for example a female charging interface, is positioned on the bottom of the housing.

[0085] When needed, a power module can be moved by a user into slot in one of the work surfaces 502 or bases 504. FIGS. 22 and 23 show an example of a power module 500 positioned in a slot 508 in one of the bases 504. The lower portion 514 of the housing 510 is configured to fit into the slot 508, while the wider upper portion 512 of the housing 510 engages the base 504 to support the power module 500 and make the charging outlets available to a user. In an exemplary embodiment, the faceplate 526 is positioned at or above an upper surface of the work surface 502 or base 504 when the power module 500 is fully engaged.

[0086] FIG. 24 shows an example of a power module 500 positioned in a slot 506 in one of the convertible tables 502. The convertible table 502 includes an L-shaped top having a first portion 550 and a second portion 552 extending approximately perpendicular to the first portion 550. The first portion 550 includes a major surface that is configured to be used as a sitting work surface. The second portion 552 includes a minor surface that is configured to be used as a standing work surface. A slot 506 is provided in both the first portion 550 and the second portion 552 to receive the power module 500.

[0087] The lower portion 514 of the housing 510 is configured to fit into the slot 506, while the wider upper portion 512 of the housing 510 engages the convertible worksurface 502 to support the power module 500 and make the charging outlets available to a user. In an exemplary embodiment, the faceplate 526 is positioned at or above an upper surface of the work surface 502 when the power module 500 is fully engaged. [0088] FIGS. 25-28 show an example of the power module 500 interfaced with a furniture component 560 (e.g., table, counter, etc.). The furniture component 560 includes an opening and a grommet 562 is positioned in the opening to receive the power module 500. The grommet 562 can be made of flexible or resilient material, such as polymer or elastomeric material. The grommet 562 is depicted as having a substantially obround configuration corresponding to the size and shape of the power module housing 510. The size and shape of the grommet 562 can be modified in conjunction with the size and shape of the power module housing 510.

[0089] The grommet 562 includes an upper rim 564 and a lower body 566 defining an opening. The upper rim 564 includes an outer portion and an inner portion obliquely angled or tapered relative to the outer portion toward the lower body 566. The inner portion helps to guide a user in placing the power module 500 into the opening. One or more protrusions 568 can extend from the lower body 566 The protrusions 568 can receive a fastener that secures the grommet 562 to the furniture component 560.

[0090] The illustrated grommet 562 is configured to be positioned in a horizontal surface of a furniture component. The lower body 566 has generally vertically oriented sides, with the upper rim 564 extending substantially perpendicular to the lower body 566 in a horizontal direction. The configuration of the grommet 562 can altered to work with angled or vertical orientations. For example, the lower body 566 can extend at an oblique angle (e.g., between 45 to 60 degrees) from the upper rim 564 so that a power module 500 can be inserted in a vertical orientation.

[0091] As best shown in FIGS. 29 and 30, when not in use, the power modules 500 can be placed on a charging module 570. The charging modules 570 can include a recessed area configured to receive the power module 500 and a charging interface configured to mate with the module charging interface 542. In some embodiments, the charging modules 570 can each hold two power modules 500, with the ability to chain multiple charging modules 570 together in a bank. The charging modules 570 can also be placed on a trolley 572 to facilitate easy movement of multiple power modules 500. Each bank of charging modules 570 can be connected to an outlet, so that the power modules can be charged as needed, for example overnight.

[0092] The foregoing detailed description of the certain exemplary embodiments has been provided for the purpose of explaining the general principles and practical application, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to understand the disclosure for various embodiments and with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. This description is not necessarily intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure to the exemplary embodiments disclosed. Any of the embodiments and/or elements disclosed herein may be combined with one another to form various additional embodiments not specifically disclosed. Accordingly, additional embodiments are possible and are intended to be encompassed within this specification and the scope of the appended claims. The specification describes specific examples to accomplish a more general goal that may be accomplished in another way.

[0093] As used in this application, the terms “front,” “rear,” “upper,” “lower,” “upwardly,” “downwardly,” and other orientational descriptors are intended to facilitate the description of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the structure of the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure to any particular position or orientation. Terms of degree, such as “substantially” or “approximately” are understood by those of ordinary skill to refer to reasonable ranges outside of the given value, for example, general tolerances associated with manufacturing, assembly, and use of the described embodiments.