60/377,501, filed on May 1,2002, the entire contents of which are hereby expressly incorporated by reference.

Background of the Invention Field of the Invention The present invention relates to modular furniture. Specifically, the present application discloses a furniture system comprised of a plurality of basic building blocks, or cells. The cells serve as both storage space and division between work areas. The cells are adapted to be combined and arranged to provide an almost limitless variety of furniture system arrangements. The systems provide many advantages over traditional furniture systems, including, inter alia, cost and space savings, multi-directional loading and access, the ability to receive tiles, reduction in shadows cast, compatibility with traditional panels, and the capacity to enclose various connectors such as electrical wires and telephone and data cables.

Description of the Related Art As shown in Figures 27 and 28, many modern office floor plans comprise open floor space that is subdivided by interconnected free-standing panels 80. The panels 80 define boundaries of various work areas 82. Within each work area 82, the panels 80 may support desktop work surfaces 84 and storage units 86, such as drawers or shelves. The drawers and shelves 86 are often attached to the panels 80 or to the desktop 84 either above or below the desktop work surface. Thus, the storage units 86 project outwardly from the panels 80, either above or below the desktop 84. Several U. S. patents describe typical <BR> <BR> panel systems, including U. S. Patent Nos. 3,425, 171 to Propst et al. , 4,325, 597 to Morrison, and 4,567, 698 to Morrison.

Office spaces are generally lit with banks of overhead lights. Thus, work area storage space that is positioned above the desktop casts downward shadows onto the desktop. The X's in Figures 27 and 28 represent these shadows. Many workers must supplement the available overhead light with a desk lamp. This extra lamp occupies work

area space that could be better used if the extra lamp were not necessary. The extra lamp also increases the cost of the typical panel-based furniture system.

Storage units that are positioned beneath the desktop occupy space that might otherwise be occupied by a worker's legs and feet. The worker cannot sit at the desktop directly in front of the storage units because he or she must sit back from the desktop a sufficient distance to prevent his or her knees from banging against the storage units. This necessary separation of the worker from the desktop prevents the worker from being able to comfortably use the desktop space directly above the storage units. Thus, the storage units beneath the desktop effectively cast shadows upwardly, limiting the uses for large portions of desktop space. The dotted lines in Figures 27 and 28 represent these shadows. Storage units positioned beneath work surfaces also limit the heights to which those work surfaces can be adjusted.

Rather than attaching storage units to the panels or work surfaces, pedestal units and lateral files may provide storage space without attachment. A pedestal comprises a free- standing bank of drawers that is typically positioned beneath the desktop. Thus, pedestals create the same problems described above by casting shadows upwardly and limiting vertical adjustment of the work surface. A lateral file similarly comprises a free-standing bank of drawers. Lateral files may be of similar height to typical pedestals, or may be taller. Lateral files are typically positioned in front of panels and next to or spaced from the desktop.

Because lateral files are positioned in front of panels, they do not use available floor space efficiently. One or more surfaces of the lateral file (such as the rear surface and one side surface) abut surfaces of the panels. These"redundant surfaces"are always hidden from view. If the panel were not necessary to divide the adjacent work areas, the lateral file could be pushed outward relative to its respective work area. This expansion would recover lost floor space and eliminate some redundant surfaces.

To eliminate the problems discussed above, preferably storage units can also be used to divide adjacent work areas. Such a configuration eliminates redundant surfaces and recovers floor space. U. S. Patent Nos. 5,039, 177 to Newell et al. and 5,328, 260 to Beirise both discuss the concept of"storage as division. "Newell et al. disclose a cabinet structure having vertically extending corner recesses. Each recess is adapted to receive an elongate corner trim element. The corner trim element has a rounded convex configuration on one

side thereof, and a generally square corner configuration on the other side thereof. The corner trim element can be positioned in any of the recesses in two different orientations, such that either the rounded or the square corner configuration is exposed. When the square corner configuration is exposed, the corner trim element provides a vertically elongate groove. The groove accommodates one-half of a connecting element, such as a vertical hinge element, for permitting the corner of the cabinet to be secured to another furniture component, such as another cabinet or an upright wall panel.

Beirise discloses an office furniture module. The module comprises a body portion having a removable top portion and a removable bottom member. A space between the top portion and an upper surface of the body portion defines an upper horizontally extending passageway. A space between the bottom member and a lower end of the body portion defines a lower horizontally extending passageway. Removable upper and lower insert panels cover openings in the body portion. When the furniture module is placed next to other identical furniture modules, the modules include upper and lower horizontally extending passageways therethrough.

The cabinet of Newell et al. and the furniture system of Beirise use storage space as division between adjacent work areas. However, neither of these patents discloses a furniture system having broad versatility, enabling the construction of a wide variety of work areas to suit the needs of any application. For example, Newell et al. discloses only apparatus for connecting a file cabinet to a panel. This interconnection enables the elimination of some panels, but does not provide any other substantial benefit.

Beirise discloses a module that can be combined with other modules to form work areas, but the range of applications for the module are limited. For example, the module has a closed back side. Therefore, to create adjacent work areas that are divided by the module, two modules must be positioned back-to-back, as shown in Figure 1 of Beirise, in order to provide storage space to both work areas. When the modules are positioned back- to-back, they occupy more floor space than they save by eliminating panels, and they create redundant surfaces.

The descriptions above highlight the limitations of prior furniture systems. A furniture system that overcomes these limitations would be of great benefit to environments that use modular furniture. The furniture system would preferably comprise a versatile base unit that creates cost and space savings, provides multi-directional loading and access,

possesses the ability to receive tiles, reduces shadows, is compatible with traditional panels, and provides the capacity to enclose various connectors such as electrical wires and telephone and data cables.

Summary of the Invention The preferred embodiments of the present modular furniture system have several features, no single one of which is solely responsible for their desirable attributes. Without limiting the scope of this modular furniture system as expressed by the claims that follow, its more prominent features will now be discussed briefly. After considering this discussion, and particularly after reading the section entitled"Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments, "one will understand how the features of the preferred embodiments provide advantages, which include providing a versatile base unit that serves as both storage space and division between neighboring work spaces, thus conserving raw materials and recovering floor space, provides multi-directional loading and access, possesses the ability to receive tiles, reduces shadows, is compatible with traditional panels, provides the capacity to enclose various connectors such as electrical wires and telephone and data cables, and is adapted to support work surfaces and dividing panels.

A preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell that is adapted to be combined with other similar cells to form a furniture system. The cell comprises first and second spaced end plates, and at least one horizontal support beam.

The cell is adapted to receive a storage component from both a first side and a second side opposite the first side.

Another preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell that is adapted to be combined with other similar cells to form a furniture system. The cell comprises first and second spaced end plates, and at least one horizontal support beam.

The at least one horizontal support beam comprises a crossbar with posts disposed at either end thereof. The posts are substantially parallel to one another and also substantially perpendicular to the crossbar.

Another preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell defining a storage space therein. The storage space is at least partially bounded by first and second spaced end plates and at least one horizontal support beam. The modular

furniture system further comprises a tile that is securable between the end plates to thereby define a further boundary of the cell.

Another preferred embodiment of the present modular furniture system comprises a cell defining a storage space therein. The storage space is at least partially bounded by first and second spaced end plates and at least one horizontal support beam. The modular furniture system further comprises a tile that is securable to either of the end plates to thereby at least partially cover the end plate.

Brief Description of the Drawings The preferred embodiments of the modular furniture system, illustrating its features, will now be discussed in detail. These embodiments depict the novel and non-obvious modular furniture system shown in the accompanying drawings, which are for illustrative purposes only. These drawings include the following figures, in which like numerals indicate like parts: Figure 1 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an end plate of the present modular furniture system; Figure 2 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system; Figure 3 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system; Figure 4 is an exploded front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, comprising two of the end plates of Figure 1 and two of the horizontal support beams of Figure 2; Figure 5 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 4; Figure 6 is a front left-side perspective view of two of the cells of Figure 5, illustrating a vertical stacking arrangement of the cells; Figure 7 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a foundation of the present modular furniture system; Figure 8 is a partially exploded front left-side perspective view of the foundation of Figure 7, and two foundation supports;

Figure 9 is a partially exploded front left-side perspective view of two of the foundations of Figure 7, and two foundation supports, illustrating a horizontally adjacent arrangement of the foundations; Figure 10 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of the components of Figure 9; Figure 11 is a front left-side perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a bridge for connecting horizontally adjacent cells ;' Figure 12 is a front left-side perspective view of four of the cells of Figure 5, illustrating a vertical stacking arrangement of the cells upon the foundation of Figure 7, and illustrating, in exploded fashion, possible positions for the bridges of Figure 11; Figure 13 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of Figure 12, illustrating the bridges connected to the cells; Figure 14 is a top plan view of two of the cells of Figure 5, illustrating the cells connected by two of the bridges of Figure 11; Figure 15 is a front left-side perspective view of three of the cells of Figure 5, illustrating a vertical stacking arrangement of the cells upon the foundation of Figure 7, and illustrating, in exploded fashion, possible positions for additional slotted posts; Figure 16 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of Figure 15, illustrating the posts connected to the cells, and illustrating, in exploded fashion, possible positions for support brackets; Figure 17 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of Figure 16, illustrating the support brackets connected to the cells; Figure 18 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of Figure 17, illustrating a desktop supported atop the support brackets; Figure 19 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side columns of vertically stacked cells of Figure 5, illustrating the ability of the stacks to provide storage space to work areas on either side of the stacks; Figure 20 is a front left-side perspective view of two stacked cells of Figure 5 atop the foundation of Figure 7, further illustrating a raceway extending across the upper cell; Figure 21 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of Figure 20, further illustrating a drawer received within the upper cell;

Figure 22 is a front left-side perspective view of the components of Figure 21, wherein the raceway is positioned between the two cells; Figure 23 is a left-side cross-sectional view of the components of Figure 21, taken along the line 23-23; Figure 24 is a left-side cross-sectional view of the components of Figure 22, taken along the line 24-24; Figure 25 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side finished cell stacks, illustrating the ability of the individual cells in the stacks to receive a variety of different storage components; Figure 26 is a front left-side perspective view of a finished work area incorporating the cells of Figure 5, and illustrating the versatility of the cells; Figures 27 and 28 are top plan views of arrangements of prior art panel-type furniture systems; Figures 29 and 30 are top plan views of sample arrangements of the present modular furniture system; Figure 31 is a front left-side perspective view of four horizontally adjacent stacks of the cells of Figure 5, illustrating the capacity of the cells to internally accommodate electrical wiring and data cabling; Figure 32 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system; Figure 33 is a left-side elevational view of the cell of Figure 32; Figure 34 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, including another preferred embodiment of a foundation; Figure 35 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side columns of vertically stacked cells of Figure 32; Figure 36 is a left-side elevational view of the cell stacks of Figure 35; Figure 37 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a hanging file drawer and a tile; Figure 38 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a shelf and a tile; Figure 39 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, illustrating the capability of the cell to receive cabinet-style doors and a tile;

Figure 40 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a closed drawer and a tile; Figure 41 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a closed drawer and a tile, with the drawer being inserted from a side opposite that shown in Figure 40 and the tile being attached to a side opposite that shown in Figure 40; Figure 42 is a front left-side perspective view of a column of vertically stacked cells of Figure 32, illustrating trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating horizontal raceways; Figure 43 is a front left-side perspective view of the cage of Figure 32, illustrating a drawer received within the cell and a tray atop the cell, the tray creating a horizontal raceway ; Figure 44 is a front left-side perspective view of two side-by-side columns of vertically stacked cells of Figure 32, illustrating trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating horizontal raceways, wires passing through the horizontal and vertical raceways, and electrical outlets; Figure 45 is a front left-side perspective view of a possible arrangement of the present modular furniture system; Figure 46 is a front right-side perspective view of the arrangement of Figure 45; Figure 47 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, illustrating the capability of the cell to receive tiles; Figure 48 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, illustrating the capability of the cell to receive a roll-up covering and a tile; Figure 49 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32; Figure 50 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, illustrating a tray atop the cell, the tray creating a raceway; Figure 51 is a front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 32, illustrating a drawer received within the cell, and a tray below the cell, the tray creating a raceway; Figure 52 is a front left-side perspective view of two vertically stacked cells of Figure 32, illustrating drawers received within the cells from the back side thereof, trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating a raceway, tiles received on front faces of the cells, and electrical outlets on the front faces of the cells;

Figure 53 is a front left-side perspective view of two columns of vertically stacked cells of Figure 32, illustrating drawers received within the cells from the back side thereof, trays disposed between the cells, the trays creating a raceway, tiles received on front faces of the cells, and electrical outlets on the front faces of the cells between the two stacks; Figure 54 is a partially exploded front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, and another preferred embodiment of a foundation; Figure 55 is a front left-side perspective view of a column of vertically stacked cells of Figure 54 and the foundation of Figure 54; Figure 56 is a partially exploded perspective view of the cell stack of Figure 55; Figure 57 is a front left-side perspective view of the end plate of Figure 1 and two of the horizontal support beams of Figure 2; Figure 58 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of end plates and a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system; Figure 59 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, including the end plates and horizontal support beam of Figure 58; Figure 60 is a front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of an end plate and a horizontal support beam of the present modular furniture system, including T connectors; Figure 61 is an exploded front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of end plates and horizontal support beams of the present modular furniture system; Figure 62 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system, the cell comprising the components of Figure 61; Figure 63 is a front left-side perspective view of two vertically stacked cells of Figure 62; Figure 64 is an exploded front left-side perspective view of another preferred embodiment of a cell of the present modular furniture system; Figure 65 is an assembled front left-side perspective view of the cell of Figure 64; and

Figure 66 is a front left-side perspective view of one of the end plates, two of the T connectors and the horizontal support beam of Figure 64.

Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments The present modular furniture system is particularly well adapted for use in office environments. The description below focuses on the use of the furniture system in an office environment. However, those of skill in the art will appreciate that the present modular furniture system is also adapted for use in other environments, such as homes, manufacturing and assembly facilities, etc.

The present modular furniture system provides a basic building block, or cell, that can be combined with other building blocks to construct work spaces. The groupings of building blocks can be arranged in an almost limitless number of ways. The groupings serve as both storage space and division between neighboring work spaces, thus conserving raw materials, recovering floor space and reducing shadows. The cells provide multi- directional loading and access, and are well suited for receiving tiles. The groupings also provide raceways for concealing electrical wires and telephone and data cables. , and are adapted for supporting horizontal work surfaces and vertical panels.

The cell 100 pictured in Figures 4 and 5 comprises one preferred embodiment of the basic building block of the present modular furniture system. Each cell 100 preferably comprises first and second end plates 102 connected to one another by at least one horizontal support beam 104. As used herein, the word beam encompasses any horizontal cross member reaching between two end plates, regardless of the shape, size, length, thickness, width, etc. of such beam. Preferably, each cell 100 includes first and second upper support beams 104, and first and second lower support beams 104. As pictured in Figures 6 and 7, however, vertically contiguous cells 100 preferably share common support beams 104. A given support beam 104 may act as an upper support beam 104 for a cell 100 beneath it, and as a lower support beam 104 for a cell 100 above it.

Figure 1 presents a detailed view of a preferred embodiment of the end plates 102.

In the illustrated embodiment, each end plate 102 is substantially flat and rectangular.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the end plates 102 could have virtually any perimeter shape, such as triangular, hexagonal, round, etc. Portions of the perimeter of each end plate 102 preferably include scores or perforations 106. The scores or perforations

106 define removable tabs 108. The removable tabs 108 provide clearance for raceways 166 that house electrical wiring and/or data cables, as described below.

The illustrated end plate 102 includes surface features that help to increase the rigidity of the end plate 102. For example, a first surface 110 of the illustrated end plate 102 includes two spaced channels 112. A second surface of the end plate 102, opposite the first surface 110, includes raised ridges opposite the channels. Each channel 112 runs in a substantially vertical direction from an upper edge 114 of the plate 102 to a lower edge 116 thereof. Each channel 112 contains a plurality of vertically spaced through-holes 118. The through holes 118 are adapted to receive fastening members (not shown), such as screws or bolts, that secure the end plates 102 to the horizontal support beams 104, as described below.

Side edges 120 of the end plates 102 are preferably bent approximately ninety degrees out of the plane of the plate 102 toward the second surface of the plate 102. These bent edges 120 further increase the rigidity of the end plates 102. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that, although these surface features increase the rigidity of the end plates 102, which increases the overall sturdiness of the present modular furniture system, none of these surface features is necessary to achieve the advantages of the system. Those of skill in the art will further appreciate that the end plates 102 could include additional surface features to further increase the rigidity of the end plates 102. For example, each end plate 102 could include additional vertical channels, located either between the two spaced channels 112 described above or outside these channels 112. The end plates 102 could also include generally horizontal channels.

Figures 2 and 3 illustrate preferred embodiments of the horizontal support beam 104. The beam 104 comprises an elongate, horizontally oriented cross bar 122. Preferably, the cross bar 122 is tubular in order to reduce the raw material costs of manufacturing the beam. The illustrated cross bar 122 has a cross-section that is generally rectangular with rounded corners. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the cross bar 122 could have virtually any cross-section, including hexagonal or round. Opposite ends of the cross bar 122 include generally vertical posts 124. The beam 104 of Figure 2 is adapted to reside between vertically adjacent cells 100, as illustrated in Figure 6. Therefore, each post 124 extends both upward and downward from the cross bar 122. The beam 102 of Figure 3 is

adapted to reside above an uppermost cell 100, as illustrated in Figures 12 and 13.

Therefore, each post 124 extends only downward from the cross bar 122.

A cross-section of each post 124 is generally C-shaped. This cross-section provides high bending strength without requiring a large amount of material. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the posts 124 could have virtually any cross-section, including a figure- eight with one open side, or substantially rectangular. Front and rear edges of the posts 124 preferably include vertically spaced slots 126. The slots 126 provide mounting points for work surfaces, shelves and other structures, as described below. Inside edges of each post 124 include vertically spaced through holes 128 that align with the through holes 118 in the end plates 102, as shown in Figure 5. Fastening members (not shown), such as screws or bolts, extend through the through holes 118 in the end plates 102 and the through holes 128 in the posts 124 to releasably secure the two together. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the posts 124 could be secured to the end plates 102 using other fastening members besides screws or bolts. These components could also be secured to each other without fastening members, such as by using an adhesive, or a tab and slot arrangement, for example.

The end plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 are preferably constructed of metal. A preferred metal is mild steel. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the end plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 could be constructed from non-metal materials, such as plastics or composites. Those of skill in the art will also appreciate that the end plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 could have any dimensions to suit any application. However, to reduce manufacturing costs, the end plates 102 and horizontal support beams 104 can also be manufactured in standard sizes. Consumers can then pick and choose from the available standard sizes in order to construct their own furniture system. Preferred dimensions for the standard-sized end plates 102 include (expressed as height x width): 14"x 17", 21"x 17", 28"x 17", 35"x 17"and 42"x 17". The preferred width of 17"of for each end plate 102 results in an approximate depth of 18"for each cell 100 when tiles and storage components are added to the cell 100, as described below.

Preferred lengths for the standard-sized horizontal support beams 104 include: 18", 24", 30", 36", 42"and 48".

The cells 100 are adapted to be stacked on top of one another and arranged side-by- side, as shown in Figures 6,12, 15 and 16, for example. hi these Figures, each of the cells

100 has substantially the same height as the other cells 100. However, vertically stacked cells 100 could have varying heights. Vertically adjacent cells 100 share a common horizontal support beam 104. The upwardly extending portions of the end posts 124 are secured to the upper cell 100, and the downwardly extending portions of the end posts 124 are secured to the lower cell 100. Each cell 100 in the lowermost layer of cells 100 rests atop a foundation 130, which is illustrated in Figure 7.

Each foundation 130 preferably comprises a pair of spaced parallel end bars 132 that extend front-to-back. A pair of spaced parallel cross bars 134 extend side-to-side and connect the end bars 132. A cross-section of the illustrated end bars 132 resembles a corrugated pattern. A ridge 136 with a flat top extends along the length of each end bar 132. A cross-section of the illustrated cross bars 134 is substantially rectangular. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the bars 132,134 could have a variety of different shapes and cross-sections to suit particular applications.

Ends of the cross bars 134 preferably seat within channels 138 on the inside edges of the end bars 132. Flanges 140 extend upwardly from the end bars 132. One flange 140 is preferably positioned adjacent the end of each cross bar 134. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the flanges 140 could be positioned differently, and that fewer or more flanges 140 could be provided. Lower ends of each end plate 102 seat between the ridge 136 of one of the end bars 132 and the respective flanges 140.

As illustrated in Figures 8-10, foundation supports 142, such as, for example, glides or wheels, are preferably releasably securable to the foundations 130. Preferably, each corner of each foundation 130 includes a foundation support 142. However, adjacent foundations 130 preferably share foundation supports 142, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, to keep the raw material cost of the present furniture system as low as possible. The foundation supports 142 preferably provide clearance between the foundation 130 and the floor upon which the cells 100 sit. This clearance provides a raceway for housing electrical wiring or telephone/data cabling. Thus, wiring and cabling can be conveniently channeled through groups of cells 100 to provide power and data hookups to individual work areas, while the wiring and cabling remains hidden from view.

With reference to Figure 8, each foundation support 142 preferably comprises a horizontal bar 144 that passes through one of the flanges 140, through the corresponding end bar 132, and extends into an end of one of the cross bars 134. A substantially

cylindrical vertical post 146 extends through an end of the horizontal bar 144 opposite the cross bar 134. A substantially disk-shaped glide 148 is secured to a lower end of the post 146. A flat lower surface of each glide 148 opposite the post 146 rests on the floor. Each glide 148 is preferably constructed of a low-friction material such that it slides relatively easily over the floor. The glides 148 thus facilitate sliding the lowermost cell 100, and any cells 100 stacked on top of the lowermost cell 100, across the floor.

The post 146 is preferably threaded, and preferably engages the horizontal bar 144 such that a distance between the horizontal bar 144 and the glide 148 is variable. The glides 148 thus enable the cells 100 to be level, even if the cells 100 are sitting on an uneven surface. By varying the distance between the horizontal bar 144 and the glide 148, the glides 148 can compensate for depressions, bumps or slants in the floor.

Although not illustrated, the glides 148 could be replaced by wheels, which would further enhance the mobility of the cells 100. Alternatively, the glides 148 could be constructed of a high-friction material, or covered on their lower surfaces with a high- friction material. Such glides 148 would lessen the mobility of the cells 100, which may be desirable to prevent the cells 100 from shifting unexpectedly. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that neither the glides 148 nor the wheels nor any similar components are necessary to achieve the advantages of the present modular furniture system. For example, the foundations 130 could rest directly on the floor.

As illustrated in Figures 14 and 19, the cells 100 are adapted to be arranged horizontally adjacent one another. Horizontally adjacent cells 100 maybe connected to one another, or may simply rest on the floor next to one another, without being physically connected. When horizontally adjacent cells 100 are connected to one another, the assembly is advantageously more sturdy than a collection of unconnected cells 100. The connected cells 100 offer support to the adjacent cells 100, reducing the potential of any one stack of cells 100 to tip over.

Figure 11 illustrates a preferred connecting member, or bridge 150. The bridges 150 reside between adjacent cells 100, as shown in Figures 12-14, such that the opposite ends of each bridge 150 abut the end plates 102 of adjacent cells 100. Each bridge 150 is shaped as a substantially C-shaped shallow channel. Downward opening hooks 152 extend from the side walls 154 of the channel in a direction opposite the base 156 of the channel.

In the illustrated embodiment, three hooks 152 extend from each side wall 154. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that fewer or more hooks 152 could be provided.

As illustrated in Figures 12 and 13, the hooks 152 on one side of each bridge 150 engage the vertically spaced slots 126 on one of the posts 124 of a particular cell 100. The hooks 152 on the opposite side of each bridge 150 engage the vertically spaced slots 126 on one of the posts 124 of an adjacent cell 100. A width of each bridge 150 determines the spacing between the adjacent stacks of cells 100, as shown in Figure 14. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the bridges 150 could have any width as desired to provide the desired spacing. In fact, the bridges 150 could be so narrow that adjacent cells 100 actually contact one another. Preferably, at least four bridges 150 connect adjacent cell stacks.

However, fewer or more bridges 150 could be provided to suit particular applications.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that horizontally adjacent cells 100 can be connected to one another without the use of a separate component like the bridge 150. For example, hooks (not shown) on one cell 100 could engage slots (not shown) on the adjacent cell 100 to connect the cells 100.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the bridges 150 could embody a variety of other shapes. For example, each bridge 150 could be shaped as a substantially rectangular box with two oppositely facing concave side walls. End walls of each rectangular bridge 150 would preferably include apertures for receiving connecting members, such as bolts or screws. The apertures in the end walls would align with the apertures in the end plates 102. The connecting members would cooperate with the end plate apertures and the bridge apertures to secure the bridges 150 to the end plates 102, thereby securing the adjacent cells 100 to one another.

As described above, front and rear edges of the posts 124 preferably include vertically spaced slots 126. Additional slotted vertical members 158 may fill the gaps between vertically adjacent posts 124, as illustrated in Figures 15 and 16. The vertically spaced slots 126 are adapted to receive not only the hooks 152 on the bridges 150, but also vertically spaced hooks 152 that project from mounting brackets 160, as illustrated in Figures 16 and 17. The illustrated mounting brackets 160 are substantially triangular, and include a plurality of vertically spaced hooks 152 projecting from a rear edge thereof.

The upper edges of the brackets 160 provide support for various surfaces, such as desktops, shelves, etc. The upper edge of each bracket may include a protruding tab 162

defining a substantially horizontal plane. The tab 162 provides a fastening surface for securing the bracket 160 to the surface that it supports. For example, a screw may cooperate with an aperture in the tab 162 and penetrate the supported surface to secure the surface to the bracket 160. Figure 18 illustrates a desktop 164 supported at one end by a pair of brackets 160. (Only one of the brackets 160 is visible in Figure 18).

Figures 20-24 illustrate stacks of cells 100 having raceways 166. The raceway 166 comprises empty space that passes through the cells 100. The raceways 166 may be bounded on one or more sides by trays 168. The trays 168 form channels that extend across cells 100 from one end plate 102 to the opposite end plate 102. One tray 168 may be provided to form an open channel, as shown in Figures 20,21 and 23. Alternatively, two trays 168 that face each other may be provided to form a closed channel, as shown in Figures 22 and 24. The raceways 166 may extend across the top of an uppermost cell 100, as shown in Figures 20,21 and 23, or the raceways 166 may extend between vertically adjacent cells 100, as shown in Figures 22 and 24.

The raceways 166 may provide paths for electrical wiring and/or data cables. The trays 168 provide support to the wiring and cables so that they don't sag and interfere with other components within each cell 100. However, the wiring and cables could instead be supported by their own tension. For example, a tension inducing device, such as a clip, could grip the wiring and cables, pulling them taut. The raceways 166 may also serve as air ducts for heating and cooling systems, or house pipes that carry water, gas, etc.

To form the raceways 166, a technician removes tabs 108 (Figure 20) from the end panels 102. The technician may, but need not, insert trays 168 into the spaces formed by the removed tabs 108. The spaces occupied by the tabs 108 at the center of the upper and lower edges 114,116 of the end plates 102 provide clearance for raceways 166 that run along the center of each cell 100 as measured in a front-to-back direction. The spaces occupied by the tabs 108 at the corners of the end plates 102 provide clearance for raceways 166 that run along the front and/or rear faces of each cell 100.

Figure 31 illustrates wiring 170 and data cabling 172 extending through adjacent stacks of cells 100. For clarity, the trays 168 that may form the raceways 166 have been omitted from Figure 31. The wires 170 and data cables 172 extend horizontally through the raceways 166 and upward or downward through gaps between adjacent cell stacks. For example, data cables 172 may extend upward from a floor conduit 174, through a vertical

passageway between two adjacent stacks, then horizontally through the stacks to deliver data to neighboring work areas.

The cells 100 are adapted to receive storage components, such as drawers 176, cabinet-style doors 178, shelves 180 and other similar components, as shown in Figures 19, 21-24,25 and 26. The cells 100 are also adapted to receive a variety of other components that are not illustrated. A non-exhaustive list of such components includes the following: an accessory panel within the cell 100 that is accessible from both sides of the cell 100, work surfaces that can either hang out of the cell 100 or roll out of the cell 100, electronic equipment such as rack mounted equipment, a roll-out shelf mounted on drawer slides, accessory panels, lighting fixtures, computer equipment, office electronics (such as faxes, printers and monitors), air ducts and registers, heating elements, refrigeration units, coolers, kitchen equipment (such as microwaves), stereo equipment (such as receivers, speakers and equalizers), video electronics (such as VCR's and DVD players), sinks, cages, seat cushions (so that a lower cell can act as a bench), air filtration equipment, wireless transmitters and antennas for wireless office networking. These components fill the spaces within cells 100 and/or cover the open sides of the cells 100. The cells 100 collectively form wall-like structures that can be used to divide neighboring work areas, as shown in Figures 26,29 and 30. As Figures 21-24 illustrate, the drawers 176 are capable of being mounted within the cells 100 such that the drawers 176 do not interfere with the raceways 166.

The cells 100 are adapted to receive tiles 182 (Figures 19 and 21-26). The illustrated tiles 182 are substantially flat and rectangular, and may be secured to the inside or outside of the cells 100. A single tile 182 may cover more than one cell 100. The tiles 182 may have any of a variety of outer surfaces, and may be designed to perform a wide variety of different functions. For example, the tiles can be covered with a painted surface, a fabric surface, or a vinyl surface. The tiles can provide, for example, desired acoustics, windows, lighting, tackable surfaces, marker receiving surfaces, data display surfaces, displays, wire management, heating/cooling and air circulation.

The tiles 182 can stretch from one cell end plate 102 to another, covering the front and/or rear openings of the cell 100. The tiles 182 can also cover the exposed surfaces of the end plates 182. Each of these tile orientations is shown in Figure 25. Figures 1,4 and 5 illustrate a preferred manner of securing the tiles 182 to the cells 100. Preferably, each end plate includes a plurality of apertures 190. The illustrated end plates 102 include four

apertures 190, with one aperture being located near each corner of the end plate 102. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that the end plates 102 could include more or fewer apertures 190.

The apertures 190 are adapted to receive tabs or hooks or other similar attachment structures (not shown) that protrude from the tiles 182. For simplicity, the attachment of a tile 182 to a cell 100 will be described with reference to tabs. However, those of skill in the art will appreciate that, as used herein, tab includes any attachment structure that is adapted to engage one of the apertures 190. Such attachment structure could include, for example, clips, snaps, pins and teeth. Those of skill in the art will also appreciate that the arrangement of the tabs and apertures could be reversed, i. e. the tabs could be on the end plates 102 and the apertures 190 on the tiles 182.

A tile 182 that is designed to cover the front and/or rear opening of a cell 100 preferably includes four tabs protruding from opposite ends thereof, with two tabs protruding from each end. The tabs, which may be spring loaded for ease of installation, project through the apertures 190 in opposing end plates 102, thus locking the tile 182 between the end plates 102. As shown in Figures 19,23 and 24, the tiles 182 may be used to cover the back side of a cell 100 where a drawer 176 or other storage component has been inserted from a front side of that cell 100. The tile 182 may present any of the aesthetic or functional surfaces described above.

A tile 182 that is designed to cover an exposed surface of an end plate 182 preferably includes four tabs protruding from an inside surface thereof. The tabs project through the apertures 190 in a single end plate 102. As shown in Figure 25, the tile 182 provides a cover for the end of a cell 100 or cell stack 184. The tile 182 may present any of the aesthetic or functional surfaces described above. Also as shown in Figure 25, each cell 100 or cell stack 184 may be covered with a top cap 192. The top cap 192 is securable to the cell stack 184 using conventional methods, such as tabs and slots, and provides any of the aesthetic or functional surfaces described above with respect to the tiles 182.

Preferably, the top cap 192 provides some clearance between an underside of the top cap 192 and the top of the cell 100 upon which the top cap 192 sits. This clearance forms a raceway for housing electrical wiring and telephone/data cabling.

As illustrated in Figures 26,29 and 30, corners of each cell stack 184 are adapted to receive ends of panels 186. These panels 186 may be traditional style panels that are

commonly used in current furniture systems. Thus, the present cell-based furniture system is advantageously compatible with some current furniture systems. The panels 186 may be opaque, transparent or translucent, and may be designed to provide a pleasing appearance and/or to muffle sound.

The ends of the panels 186 may include hooks (not shown), so that the hooks engage the vertically spaced slots 126 in the posts 124. Alternatively, the panels 186 may be connected to the cells 100 by other conventional means, such as by using screws or bolts. The panels 186, together with the stacks 184, define boundaries of each work area.

Because the cell stacks 184 do not sit in front of the panels 186, as storage units do in traditional panel systems, the stacks 184 eliminate redundant surfaces and recover floor space. Each work area includes an abundance of storage space in the stacks 184, and a large work surface 188. Because all storage space is located in the stacks 184, no storage units are located above or below the work surface 188. Thus, the storage space does not cast shadows downward or upward within the work area.

Advantageously, the cell 100 is relatively small when compared to the overall size of a typical work area. Further, the cells 100 can be manufactured in different sizes, as explained above. Thus, many cells 100 can be combined in a wide variety of different ways to create highly customized work areas. Each work area can include cells 100 of different sizes. For example, Figure 19 illustrates two adjacent stacks of four cells 100 each. These stacks are integrated into the work area illustrated in Figure 26. If desired, each stack could include fewer or more than four rows of cells 100 to provide a convenient height for the stacks, and to provide adequate storage space for a given work area.

The height, width and/or depth of each cell 100 can also be varied to tailor the stacks to achieve work space goals. For example, in the stacks shown in Figure 19, the two lower cells 100 and the uppermost cell 100 are all of substantially the same height.

However, the cell 100 that is next to the top is substantially taller than the rest. Preferably, horizontally adjacent cells 100 are of equal height to avoid interruptions in the raceways 166. Also, every cell 100 in a given stack is preferably of equal width so that the posts 124 at the end of the horizontal support beams 104 align with the end plates 102 of vertically adjacent cells 100.

Advantageously, storage components such as drawers 176, cabinet-style doors 178, shelves 180, roll-up coverings can be inserted into the cells 100 from either side. For

example, Figures 19 and 25 illustrate two adjacent stacks of cells 100. The drawers 176 are inserted from a front side of the left-hand stack of cells 100, and the door 178 is secured to the front side of the uppermost cell in that same stack. By contrast, the drawers 176 are inserted from a back side of the right-hand stack of cells 100, and the door 178 is secured to the back side of the uppermost cell in that same stack. In Figures 29 and 30, the arrows pointing away from the cell stacks 184 indicate the direction in which the storage components in that cell stack open.

Those of skill in the art will appreciate that drawers 176 and other storage components can be inserted from both a front side and a back side of a single stack of cells 100. For example, a lower cell 100 may have a drawer 176 inserted from a front side, while a cell 100 stacked on top of that cell 100 may have a drawer inserted from a back side. This versatility enables a single cell stack to serve as storage space for two adjacent work areas.

Figures 32 and 33 illustrate another preferred embodiment of the cell 200 of the present modular furniture system. The cell 200 comprises first and second end plates 202, which are preferably substantially rectangular. Each corner of the first end plate 202 is joined to a corresponding corner of the second end plate 202 by a bar 204, thus forming a substantially rectangular cell 200. The cell 200 is preferably manufactured out of metal, but can be made of any rigid material. A preferred metal is steel. In addition, the dimensions of the cell 200 can vary depending on the needs of particular office personnel.

Preferably, a plurality of cells 200 are stacked vertically and/or side-by-side, as illustrated in Figures 35 and 36, to create storage space and/or walls. For example, Figures 45 and 46 illustrate finished cell stacks arranged to create dividers 264 between adjacent work areas. The dividers 264 advantageously also serve as storage space. As Figures 35 and 36 illustrate, stacked cells 200 need not have the same dimensions as one another. For example, a taller cell 206 may be stacked together with a shorter cell 208.

Preferably, a cell 200 that rests directly on the floor includes an attached foundation 209, which is illustrated in Figure 34. The foundation 209 comprises an elongate longitudinal bar 211 with a cross bar 213 attached at either end. The cross bars 213 are parallel to and secured to the first and second end plates 202. The longitudinal bar 211 is parallel to a longitudinal axis of the cell 200 and passes underneath a center of the cell 200 from the first end plate 202 to the second end plate 202. The foundation 209 increases the

stiffness and sturdiness of the cell 200 or stack of cells 200, thereby reducing the likelihood that a stack might topple over and injure someone.

A lower surface 215 of each end 217 of each cross bar 211 preferably includes a glide 219. Each glide 219 comprises a substantially disk-shaped runner 221 having a substantially cylindrical post 223 attached to a flat face. The post 223, which may be threaded, preferably penetrates the lower surface 215 of the cross bar 211 such that a flat surface of the runner 221 opposite the post 223 rests flat on the floor. The runner 221 is preferably constructed of a low-friction material such that it slides relatively easily over the floor. The glides 219 thus facilitate moving the stack across the floor. Further, because the posts 223 preferably by threads engage the cross bars 211, the glides 219 enable the stack to be level, even if the stack is sitting on an uneven surface. By varying the length that one or more posts 223 extends from the cross bar 211, the glides 219 can compensate for depressions, bumps or slants in the floor.

Each cell 200 is adapted to function as a support structure for a variety of different components. For example, a cell 200 may house a hanging file drawer 210 (Figure 37), shelving 212 (Figure 38), a single storage unit with doors 214 (Figure 39), a closed drawer 216 (Figure 40), a roll-up covering 218 (Figure 48), open space or other storage configurations.

Advantageously, each of these components may be inserted from either side of the cell 200. For example, the hanging file drawer 210 shown in Figure 37 is inserted from a first side, while the hanging file drawer 210 shown in Figure 41 is inserted from a second side opposite the first side. Drawers 210 can also be inserted simultaneously from both sides of a single cell 200. As Figures 37-41,47, 48,, 52 and 53 illustrate, the sides of the cell 200 other than the side from which the storage component is inserted may be covered with a tile 220. The tile 220 may be manufactured from metal, wood or fabric, for example, or any combination of these materials. The tile 220 may merely provide a pleasing outward appearance for the cell 200, or may also be a useful surface, as described above.

Advantageously, opposite edges of end plates 202 of each cell 200 include indentations 222 as shown in Figure 49. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper and lower edges of the end plates 202 include indentations 222. However, those of skill in the art will appreciate that front and rear edges of each end plate 202 could also include indentations 222. The indentations 222 provide clearance for elongate trays 224 to be inserted between

adjacent cells 200, as shown in Figures 42-44 and 50-53, or along outer sides of outermost cells 200, as shown in Figures 43,50 and 51. The trays 224 are substantially U-shaped in cross-section and create raceways 226 along the sides of the cells 200.

As shown in Figure 42, a raceway 226 may be comprised of a portion of two adjacent trays 224, each positioned such that the open portions of the"U"of each tray face each other. Alternatively, if not as much raceway space is necessary, a tray 224 may run through only one cell 200, providing additional storage space in the adjacent cell 200. The raceways 224 provide convenient paths for wires 228 to run horizontally along the cells 200 as shown in Figure 44. The wires 228 may be electrical wires, telephone and data wires, coaxial cables or any other type of conduit that is associated with modern office equipment.

The trays 224 desirably have openings 230 (Figures 42-44 and 50) along their length to permit outlets 232 and other connections such as telephone jacks to be conveniently positioned for office personnel, as shown in Figures 44,52 and 53.

As shown in Figure 49, bosses 234 preferably extend outwardly from the ends of the cells 200. For cells 200 that are arranged side-by-side, as shown in Figure 44, the bosses of the cells 200 abut and create vertical raceways between the adjacent cells 200.

Alternatively, for cells 200 that have one or both of their ends covered by a flat tile 220, as the cell 200 in Figure 47, the bosses 234 create vertical raceways adjacent the ends of the cells 200 behind the panels 220. The vertical raceways enable wires 228 to be threaded vertically as necessary through the interior of the furniture as shown in Figure 44.

Figure 54 illustrates another preferred embodiment of a cell 236 having the features and advantages of the cell 200. The cell 236, which is illustrated partially exploded, comprises first and second end plates 238. The end plates 238 are preferably substantially rectangular. Each end plate 238 preferably includes a plurality of outwardly facing bosses 240. The bosses 240 create vertical raceways, as described above with reference to the cell 200.

Each end plate 238 also preferably includes first and second tabs 242 protruding from an upper edge 244 and first and second tabs 242 protruding from a lower edge 246. A portion of the upper edge 244 between the tabs 242 comprises an indentation 248, and a portion of the upper edge 244 between the tabs 242 comprises an indentation 248. The indentations 248 provide clearance for elongate trays, as described above with reference to the cell 200.

The end plates 238 are connected to one another by crossbars 250. In the illustrated embodiment, each crossbar 250 connects a tab 242 on one end plate 238 to a corresponding tab 242 on the opposite end plate 238. Those of skill in the art will appreciate, however, that the crossbars 250 may connect alternate portions of the end plates 250.

The cell 236 of Figure 54 includes a foundation 252 comprising a rigid member connecting ends 254 of the two lower crossbars 250. When a plurality of cells 236 are stacked, as in Figures 55 and 56, the lowermost cell 236 preferably includes a foundation 252 to increase the rigidity of the stack. Each foundation 252 may include glides 256 that enable the cell 236 to be more easily slid across a floor. The glides 256 also preferably enable the cell 236 to be leveled when sitting atop an uneven surface.

Figure 55 illustrates a stack of cells 236, and Figure 56 illustrates the stack partially exploded. The stack may include cells 236 of different heights, as shown. Joints 258, comprising substantially cylindrical pins, cooperate with slots in each cell 236 to connect neighboring cells 236. A variety of components are easily secured upon and within the cells 236 in the same manner described above with reference to the cell 200.

The present modular furniture system permits virtually unlimited flexibility in efficiently and economically designing office space. The uniquely designed cells 200,236 maximize storage capacity and eliminate traditional dividers, such as panels, while providing space for concealing wiring. The furniture thus creates a functional environment that is clean and well-organized. As Figures 45 and 46 show, combinations of cells 200, 236 including various storage components such as drawers, shelves and open spaces, create virtually limitless furniture systems. These systems are space efficient and permit wiring to run invisibly throughout the unit to any desired location. Computers, telephones and other modern office equipment can thus easily be connected to networks and power sources without the need to run wiring along desktops or across floors.

The units can also be easily rearranged to provide maximum storage and efficiency for any office environment. Storage components such as drawers are easily inserted from both a front or a back side of each cell. Storage space is thus easy to reallocate by moving a drawer from one side to the other. For example, if a worker in a first cubicle needs more storage space than a worker in a neighboring cubicle, a drawer inserted from the neighboring side can easily be removed and inserted from the first side.

Figure 57 illustrates one of the end plates 102 of Figure 1 and two of the horizontal support beams of Figure 2. The components form an L shape in front or rear elevation aspect. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that these components can be combined with additional end plates and horizontal support beams to form the cells 100 illustrated in Figures 4-6. For example, the components shown in Figure 57 can be combined with identical components that are oriented in an upside down and reverse fashion to form the cells 100 illustrated in Figures 4-6.

Figure 58 illustrates end plates 300 and a horizontal support beam 302 of another preferred embodiment of a cell 304 of the present modular furniture system. The end plates 300 and horizontal support beam 302 are formed from a single sheet of material, preferably a metal such as steel. The sheet preferably includes first and second channels 306 in an upper surface thereof. The end plates 300 are bent, at the dotted lines shown, with respect to the horizontal support beam to form the cell 304 shown in Figure 59. The cell 304 preferably includes posts 308 for securing the cell 304 to another vertically adjacent cell (not shown).

Figure 60 illustrates an end plate 300 and a horizontal support beam 302 that are formed integrally with one another, and bent to form an L-shaped part of a cell 310. The partial cell 310 is easily combinable with a substantially identical partial cell to form a cell that is closed on four sides. The partial cell 310 includes T connectors 312 that facilitate connecting the partial cell 310 to vertically adjacent cells.

Figures 61 and 62 illustrate another preferred cell 400 of the present modular furniture system. The cell 400 comprises first and second end plates 402 connected by first and second horizontal support beams 404. The horizontal support beams 404 are formed as substantially rectangular bands. End portions 406 of the horizontal support beams 404 seat within channels 408 in the end plates 402, as shown in Figure 62. Figure 63 illustrates two of the cells 400 in a vertically stacked arrangement.

Figures 64 and 65 illustrate another preferred cell 500 of the present modular furniture system. The cell 500 comprises end plates 502 that connect with a horizontal support beam 504 via T connectors 506. Vertical portions 508 of the T connectors 506 engage the end plates 502, while horizontal portions 510 of the T connectors 506 engage the horizontal support beam 504, as shown in Figure 65. The horizontal portions 510

preferably seat within channels 512 in the horizontal support beam 504. The vertical portions 508 preferably seat within channels 514 in the end plates 502.

Figure 66 illustrates one of the end plates 502, two of the T connectors 506 and the horizontal support beam 504 of Figures 64 and 65. Those of skill in the art will appreciate that these components are combinable with other substantially identical components to form a cell that is closed on four sides.

Scope of the Invention The above presents a description of the best mode contemplated for carrying out the present modular furniture system, and of the manner and process of making and using it, in such full, clear, concise, and exact terms as to enable any person skilled in the art to which it pertains to make and use this modular furniture system. This modular furniture system is, however, susceptible to modifications and alternate constructions from that discussed above that are fully equivalent. Consequently, this modular furniture system is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed. On the contrary, this modular furniture system covers all modifications and alternate constructions coming within the spirit and scope of the modular furniture system as generally expressed by the following claims, which particularly point out and distinctly claim the subject matter of the modular furniture system.