US20090038236A1 - Modular Office System - Google Patents
Modular Office System Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090038236A1 US20090038236A1 US12/254,394 US25439408A US2009038236A1 US 20090038236 A1 US20090038236 A1 US 20090038236A1 US 25439408 A US25439408 A US 25439408A US 2009038236 A1 US2009038236 A1 US 2009038236A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- longitudinal axis
- top surface
- diagonal
- opposite
- diagonal portion
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 230000001154 acute effect Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 2
- 239000002023 wood Substances 0.000 description 2
- 238000007792 addition Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000002131 composite material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- NJPPVKZQTLUDBO-UHFFFAOYSA-N novaluron Chemical compound C1=C(Cl)C(OC(F)(F)C(OC(F)(F)F)F)=CC=C1NC(=O)NC(=O)C1=C(F)C=CC=C1F NJPPVKZQTLUDBO-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 239000004033 plastic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000000926 separation method Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000007787 solid Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000004575 stone Substances 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B13/00—Details of tables or desks
- A47B13/08—Table tops; Rims therefor
- A47B13/10—Tops characterised by shape, other than circular or rectangular
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04B—GENERAL BUILDING CONSTRUCTIONS; WALLS, e.g. PARTITIONS; ROOFS; FLOORS; CEILINGS; INSULATION OR OTHER PROTECTION OF BUILDINGS
- E04B2/00—Walls, e.g. partitions, for buildings; Wall construction with regard to insulation; Connections specially adapted to walls
- E04B2/74—Removable non-load-bearing partitions; Partitions with a free upper edge
- E04B2002/7483—Details of furniture, e.g. tables or shelves, associated with the partitions
Definitions
- the disclosed subject matter generally relates to a desktop.
- the disclosed subject matter is directed to a desktop having a first portion and a diagonal portion oriented diagonally with respect to the first portion.
- Traditional office furniture systems include standard desks with or without returns or credenzas. Such traditional office furniture systems typically require a larger office footprint and do not efficiently use office space overall.
- L-shaped and U-shaped workstation-like office furniture systems were developed. Such systems are typically dimensioned according to the surrounding office dimensions. Unfortunately, such systems generally create a barrier that pushes people away and creates unproductive workspace. Guests generally have little or no access to a user or worker's work area without standing directly behind the user. Finally, guest often have little or now work area and multiple guests are often required to sit close to one another.
- the modular office systems include the following: a plurality of walls defining an at least partially enclosed, substantially parallelogram-shaped office area, the substantially parallelogram-shaped office area including two opposite acute angles and two opposite obtuse angles, each of the plurality of walls defining an axis; and a desktop including: a first portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, the first portion having a first longitudinal axis, the first longitudinal axis substantially bisecting the top surface of the first portion, the first longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to one of the axes defined by one of the plurality of walls; and a diagonal portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, the diagonal portion being joined with the first portion, the diagonal portion having a second longitudinal axis, the second longitudinal axis substantially bisecting the top surface of the diagonal portion and being substantially parallel to a different one of the axes defined by
- the modular office systems include the following: a plurality of walls defining a plurality of n at least partially enclosed, substantially parallelogram-shaped office areas, each of the substantially parallelogram-shaped office areas including two opposite acute angles and two opposite obtuse angles, each of the plurality of walls defining an axis; and a desktops including: a first portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, the first portion having a first longitudinal axis, the first longitudinal axis substantially bisecting the top surface of the first portion, the first longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to one of the axes defined by one of the plurality of walls; and a diagonal portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, the diagonal portion being joined with the first portion, the diagonal portion having a second longitudinal axis, the second longitudinal axis substantially bisecting the top surface of the diagonal portion and being substantially parallel to a
- FIG. 1 is a front isometric view of a desktop according to one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter
- FIG. 2 is a top view of a desktop according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter
- FIG. 3 is a top view of a desktop according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter
- FIG. 4 is a front isometric view of a modular office system according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter
- FIG. 5 is a top view of a desktop according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
- FIG. 6 is a top view of a modular office system according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.
- desktop 20 includes a first portion 22 and a diagonal portion 24 that is oriented so as to be diagonal to the first portion.
- First portion 22 includes a top surface 26 , a bottom surface 28 , which is opposite and typically a mirror image of the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces 30 .
- First portion 22 generally extends along a first longitudinal axis 32 that may substantially bisect top surface 26 .
- First portion 22 is generally adapted or configured to include a worker work area 34 .
- At least one of plurality of side surfaces 30 may define a worker-side edge 36 .
- Worker-side edge 36 typically has a predetermined curvature 38 . The shape of predetermined curvature 38 is generally selected so that worker-side edge 36 radiates toward first longitudinal axis 32 .
- Diagonal portion 24 includes a top surface 40 , a bottom surface 42 , which is opposite and typically a mirror image of the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces 44 . At least one end of diagonal portion 24 may be defined by or include a pedestal portion 46 , which may or may not be contiguous to the diagonal portion. Diagonal portion 24 generally extends along a second longitudinal axis 48 that may substantially bisect top surface 40 of the diagonal portion. First portion 22 and diagonal portion 24 are typically oriented so that first longitudinal axis 32 and second longitudinal axis 48 are diagonal to one another. In one embodiment, first portion 22 and diagonal portion 24 are oriented to define an angle 50 between first longitudinal axis 32 and second longitudinal axis 48 that is less than 90 degrees. In another embodiment, angle 50 is about 50 to 70 degrees. In still another embodiment, angle 50 is about 60 degrees.
- At least one of plurality of side surfaces 44 is joined with at least one of plurality of side surfaces 30 to define worker-side edge 36 .
- predetermined curvature 38 is selected so worker-side edge 36 also generally radiates toward second longitudinal axis 48 .
- At least one of plurality of side surfaces 44 may define a guest-side edge 52 that is substantially opposite a portion 54 of worker-side edge 36 .
- a guest work area 56 is defined substantially on a half 58 of diagonal portion 24 between second longitudinal axis 48 and guest-side edge 52 .
- a remaining portion 60 of diagonal portion 24 defines additional worker work area 34 .
- Guest-side edge 52 may include at least one portion 62 with a predetermined curvature 64 that is selected so that the at least one portion radiates toward second longitudinal axis 48 .
- Guest-side edge 52 may also include at least one portion 66 with a predetermined curvature 68 that is selected so that the at least one portion radiates toward second longitudinal axis 48 .
- desktops 20 and 70 may also include a return portion 72 .
- Return portion 72 typically includes a top surface 74 , a bottom surface 76 , which is opposite and typically a mirror image of the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces 78 .
- Return portion 72 generally extends along a third longitudinal axis 80 that substantially bisects top surface 74 of the return portion.
- third longitudinal axis 80 is substantially perpendicular to first longitudinal axis 32 .
- angle 50 between first longitudinal axis 32 and second longitudinal axis 48 is less than a second angle 82 defined between the first longitudinal axis and third longitudinal axis 80 .
- Diagonal portion 24 is generally joined with first portion 22 .
- first portion 22 and diagonal portion 24 may be defined by a single, contiguous portion 92 .
- first portion 22 and diagonal portion 24 may not be contiguous and may be two separate portions that are positioned adjacent one another.
- Desktops 20 and 70 which include a return portion 72 , may be configured so that first portion 22 , diagonal portion 24 , and the return portion are defined by a single, contiguous portion.
- Desktops 20 and 70 may also be configured so that first portion 22 , diagonal portion 24 , and return portion 72 are separate portions positioned adjacent to one another.
- desktop 90 may only include first portion 22 and diagonal portion 24 and not include return portion 72 .
- Desktops 20 , 70 , and 90 may generally be dimensioned according to the required dimensions of the surrounding work area and the user.
- first portion 22 is shorter than both return portion 72 and diagonal portion 24 .
- First portion 22 generally has a length from about five feet to six feet.
- Diagonal portion 24 generally has a length from about eight feet to ten feet.
- the length of return portion 72 may vary as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3 and is generally from about three feet to seven feet.
- Radii R 1 and R 2 of predetermined curvatures 38 and 68 may also vary but are generally from about two feet to three feet and five feet to six feet, also respectively.
- a modular office system 100 which generally includes a substantially parallelogram-shaped office area 102 having a desktop 104 with a first portion 106 and a diagonal portion 108 positioned therein.
- Substantially parallelogram-shaped office area 102 is defined by a plurality of walls 110 , 112 , 114 .
- Each of plurality of walls 110 , 112 , 114 defines a respective axis 116 , 118 , 120 .
- First portion 106 of desktop 104 includes a top surface 122 , a bottom surface 124 opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces 126 .
- First portion 106 defines a first longitudinal axis 128 that substantially bisects top surface 122 .
- First longitudinal axis 128 is generally substantially parallel to one of axes 116 , 118 , 120 , e.g., axis 118 in FIGS. 4 and 5 .
- Diagonal portion 108 of desktop 104 includes a top surface 130 , a bottom surface 132 opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces 134 .
- Diagonal portion 108 is typically joined with first portion 106 .
- Diagonal portion 108 defines a second longitudinal axis 136 that substantially bisects top surface 130 .
- Second longitudinal axis 136 is generally substantially parallel to a different one of axes 116 , 118 , 120 than first longitudinal axis 128 , e.g., axis 120 in FIGS. 4 and 5 .
- first portion 106 and diagonal portion 108 are generally oriented so first longitudinal axis 128 and second longitudinal axis 136 are diagonal to one another.
- substantially parallelogram-shaped office area 102 includes two opposite acute angles A A and two opposite obtuse angles 138 .
- first portion 106 and diagonal portion 108 are oriented so that one of two opposite obtuse angles 138 is between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis and is greater than 90 degrees.
- angle 138 is about 110 to 130 degrees. In another embodiment, angle 138 is about 125 degrees.
- some embodiments include a modular office system 200 including a plurality of walls 201 defining a plurality of at least partially enclosed, substantially parallelogram-shaped office areas 202 that each include two opposite acute angles and two opposite obtuse angles.
- each of parallelogram-shaped office areas 202 can be positioned adjacent one another and can share common walls.
- Each of parallelogram-shaped office areas 202 is configured similarly or the same as parallelogram-shaped office area 102 .
- At least one of plurality of side surfaces 126 is joined with at least one of plurality of side surfaces 134 to define worker-side edge 140 .
- a predetermined curvature 142 is selected so worker-side edge 140 also generally radiates toward second longitudinal axis 136 .
- At least one of plurality of side surfaces 134 may define a guest-side edge 144 that is substantially opposite a portion 146 of worker-side edge 140 .
- a guest work area 148 is defined substantially on a portion 150 of top surface 130 of diagonal portion 108 adjacent guest-side edge 144 .
- a remaining portion 152 of diagonal portion 108 defines a portion of worker work area 154 .
- Guest-side edge 144 may include at least one portion 156 with a predetermined curvature 158 that is selected so that the at least one portion radiates toward first longitudinal axis 128 .
- Guest-side edge 144 may also include at least one portion 160 with a predetermined curvature 162 that is selected so that the at least one portion radiates toward second longitudinal axis 136 .
- desktop 104 is typically sized similarly to desktops 20 , 70 , and 90 or in accordance with the dimensions of a respective substantially parallelogram-shaped office area 102 in which it is positioned.
- Exemplary dimensions for one substantially parallelogram-shaped office area 102 includes two sides having a length of about five to seven feet and two sides having a length of about six feet to nine feet. In one embodiment, two sides are six feet and two sides are seven and one-half feet.
- Desktops according to the disclosed subject matter are typically fabricated from solid wood and/or composite wood materials. Generally, all of the surfaces of the disclosed subject matter are flat and/or smooth. However, desktops according to the disclosed subject matter may also be fabricated from plastic, metal, stone, and any other material that both includes substantially flat surfaces and may be fabricated according to the geometrical configurations of the disclosed subject matter.
- a 9′ ⁇ 12′ office space including an office furniture system with a desktop according to the disclosed subject matter generally provides up to 40% more useful surface space over traditional U-shaped office furniture systems.
- the inward curves of both the diagonal portion and first portion encourage collaboration and maximize workspace for both the worker/user and guests.
- the outward curves of the diagonal portion generally provide guests with arm space, additional work areas over existing systems, and comfortable separation between one another.
- the inward and outward curves result in a distance between users that is much more personal and induces more of a side-by-side feeling rather than an oppositional feeling.
- the diagonal orientation of the diagonal portion with respect to the first portion allows guests to more easily view a computer monitor of the worker/user.
Abstract
A desktop including a first portion and a diagonal portion oriented diagonally with respect to the first portion. Both the first portion and diagonal portion each have a top surface, a bottom surface opposite said top surface, a plurality of side surfaces, and first and second longitudinal axes, respectively, that substantially bisect each portion. The first portion and diagonal portion are oriented so that the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are diagonal to one another. The desktop also includes a return portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces. The return portion is joined with the first portion and has a third longitudinal axis that substantially bisects the top surface of the return portion. The third longitudinal axis is substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis.
Description
- (1) Field
- The disclosed subject matter generally relates to a desktop. In particular, the disclosed subject matter is directed to a desktop having a first portion and a diagonal portion oriented diagonally with respect to the first portion.
- (2) Description of the Related Art
- Traditional office furniture systems include standard desks with or without returns or credenzas. Such traditional office furniture systems typically require a larger office footprint and do not efficiently use office space overall.
- To provide for more efficient use of office space, L-shaped and U-shaped workstation-like office furniture systems were developed. Such systems are typically dimensioned according to the surrounding office dimensions. Unfortunately, such systems generally create a barrier that pushes people away and creates unproductive workspace. Guests generally have little or no access to a user or worker's work area without standing directly behind the user. Finally, guest often have little or now work area and multiple guests are often required to sit close to one another.
- Modular office systems are disclosed. In some embodiments, the modular office systems include the following: a plurality of walls defining an at least partially enclosed, substantially parallelogram-shaped office area, the substantially parallelogram-shaped office area including two opposite acute angles and two opposite obtuse angles, each of the plurality of walls defining an axis; and a desktop including: a first portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, the first portion having a first longitudinal axis, the first longitudinal axis substantially bisecting the top surface of the first portion, the first longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to one of the axes defined by one of the plurality of walls; and a diagonal portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, the diagonal portion being joined with the first portion, the diagonal portion having a second longitudinal axis, the second longitudinal axis substantially bisecting the top surface of the diagonal portion and being substantially parallel to a different one of the axes defined by one of the plurality of walls than the first longitudinal axis; wherein the first portion and the diagonal portion are oriented so the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are diagonal to one another and define an obtuse angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis.
- Modular office systems are disclosed. In some embodiments, the modular office systems include the following: a plurality of walls defining a plurality of n at least partially enclosed, substantially parallelogram-shaped office areas, each of the substantially parallelogram-shaped office areas including two opposite acute angles and two opposite obtuse angles, each of the plurality of walls defining an axis; and a desktops including: a first portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, the first portion having a first longitudinal axis, the first longitudinal axis substantially bisecting the top surface of the first portion, the first longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to one of the axes defined by one of the plurality of walls; and a diagonal portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, the diagonal portion being joined with the first portion, the diagonal portion having a second longitudinal axis, the second longitudinal axis substantially bisecting the top surface of the diagonal portion and being substantially parallel to a different one of the axes defined by one of the plurality of walls than the first longitudinal axis; wherein the first portion and the diagonal portion are oriented so the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis are diagonal to one another and define an obtuse angle between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis.
- For the purpose of illustrating the disclosed subject matter, the drawings show a form of the invention that is presently preferred. However, it should be understood that the disclosed subject matter is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities shown in the drawings, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a front isometric view of a desktop according to one embodiment of the disclosed subject matter; -
FIG. 2 is a top view of a desktop according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; -
FIG. 3 is a top view of a desktop according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; -
FIG. 4 is a front isometric view of a modular office system according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; -
FIG. 5 is a top view of a desktop according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; and -
FIG. 6 is a top view of a modular office system according to some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. - Referring now to the drawings in which like reference numerals indicate like parts, and in particular, to
FIGS. 1-3 , one aspect of the disclosed subject matter is adesktop 20. In one embodiment,desktop 20 includes afirst portion 22 and adiagonal portion 24 that is oriented so as to be diagonal to the first portion. -
First portion 22 includes atop surface 26, abottom surface 28, which is opposite and typically a mirror image of the top surface, and a plurality ofside surfaces 30.First portion 22 generally extends along a firstlongitudinal axis 32 that may substantially bisecttop surface 26.First portion 22 is generally adapted or configured to include aworker work area 34. At least one of plurality ofside surfaces 30 may define a worker-side edge 36. Worker-side edge 36 typically has apredetermined curvature 38. The shape ofpredetermined curvature 38 is generally selected so that worker-side edge 36 radiates toward firstlongitudinal axis 32. -
Diagonal portion 24 includes atop surface 40, abottom surface 42, which is opposite and typically a mirror image of the top surface, and a plurality ofside surfaces 44. At least one end ofdiagonal portion 24 may be defined by or include apedestal portion 46, which may or may not be contiguous to the diagonal portion.Diagonal portion 24 generally extends along a secondlongitudinal axis 48 that may substantially bisecttop surface 40 of the diagonal portion.First portion 22 anddiagonal portion 24 are typically oriented so that firstlongitudinal axis 32 and secondlongitudinal axis 48 are diagonal to one another. In one embodiment,first portion 22 anddiagonal portion 24 are oriented to define anangle 50 between firstlongitudinal axis 32 and secondlongitudinal axis 48 that is less than 90 degrees. In another embodiment,angle 50 is about 50 to 70 degrees. In still another embodiment,angle 50 is about 60 degrees. - At least one of plurality of
side surfaces 44 is joined with at least one of plurality ofside surfaces 30 to define worker-side edge 36. In addition to generally radiating toward firstlongitudinal axis 32,predetermined curvature 38 is selected so worker-side edge 36 also generally radiates toward secondlongitudinal axis 48. At least one of plurality ofside surfaces 44 may define a guest-side edge 52 that is substantially opposite aportion 54 of worker-side edge 36. Aguest work area 56 is defined substantially on ahalf 58 ofdiagonal portion 24 between secondlongitudinal axis 48 and guest-side edge 52. Aremaining portion 60 ofdiagonal portion 24 defines additionalworker work area 34. Guest-side edge 52 may include at least oneportion 62 with a predetermined curvature 64 that is selected so that the at least one portion radiates toward secondlongitudinal axis 48. Guest-side edge 52 may also include at least oneportion 66 with apredetermined curvature 68 that is selected so that the at least one portion radiates toward secondlongitudinal axis 48. - As illustrated in
FIGS. 1 and 3 ,desktops return portion 72.Return portion 72 typically includes atop surface 74, abottom surface 76, which is opposite and typically a mirror image of the top surface, and a plurality ofside surfaces 78.Return portion 72 generally extends along a thirdlongitudinal axis 80 that substantially bisectstop surface 74 of the return portion. Typically, thirdlongitudinal axis 80 is substantially perpendicular to firstlongitudinal axis 32. In at least one embodiment,angle 50 between firstlongitudinal axis 32 and secondlongitudinal axis 48 is less than asecond angle 82 defined between the first longitudinal axis and thirdlongitudinal axis 80. -
Diagonal portion 24 is generally joined withfirst portion 22. InFIGS. 1-3 , which illustratedesktops first portion 22 anddiagonal portion 24 may be defined by a single,contiguous portion 92. As indicated by dashed line 94 inFIG. 1 , in other embodiments such asdesktop 20,first portion 22 anddiagonal portion 24 may not be contiguous and may be two separate portions that are positioned adjacent one another.Desktops return portion 72, may be configured so thatfirst portion 22,diagonal portion 24, and the return portion are defined by a single, contiguous portion.Desktops first portion 22,diagonal portion 24, andreturn portion 72 are separate portions positioned adjacent to one another. Alternatively, as illustrated inFIG. 2 ,desktop 90 may only includefirst portion 22 anddiagonal portion 24 and not includereturn portion 72. -
Desktops first portion 22 is shorter than bothreturn portion 72 anddiagonal portion 24.First portion 22 generally has a length from about five feet to six feet.Diagonal portion 24 generally has a length from about eight feet to ten feet. The length ofreturn portion 72 may vary as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 3 and is generally from about three feet to seven feet. Radii R1 and R2 of predeterminedcurvatures - Referring now to
FIGS. 4 and 5 , another embodiment of the disclosed subject matter is amodular office system 100, which generally includes a substantially parallelogram-shapedoffice area 102 having adesktop 104 with afirst portion 106 and adiagonal portion 108 positioned therein. - Substantially parallelogram-shaped
office area 102 is defined by a plurality ofwalls walls respective axis -
First portion 106 ofdesktop 104 includes a top surface 122, abottom surface 124 opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces 126.First portion 106 defines a firstlongitudinal axis 128 that substantially bisects top surface 122. Firstlongitudinal axis 128 is generally substantially parallel to one ofaxes axis 118 inFIGS. 4 and 5 . -
Diagonal portion 108 ofdesktop 104 includes atop surface 130, abottom surface 132 opposite the top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces 134.Diagonal portion 108 is typically joined withfirst portion 106.Diagonal portion 108 defines a secondlongitudinal axis 136 that substantially bisectstop surface 130. Secondlongitudinal axis 136 is generally substantially parallel to a different one ofaxes longitudinal axis 128, e.g.,axis 120 inFIGS. 4 and 5 . As a result,first portion 106 anddiagonal portion 108 are generally oriented so firstlongitudinal axis 128 and secondlongitudinal axis 136 are diagonal to one another. In one embodiment, substantially parallelogram-shapedoffice area 102 includes two opposite acute angles AA and two oppositeobtuse angles 138. In one embodiment,first portion 106 anddiagonal portion 108 are oriented so that one of two oppositeobtuse angles 138 is between the first longitudinal axis and the second longitudinal axis and is greater than 90 degrees. In one embodiment,angle 138 is about 110 to 130 degrees. In another embodiment,angle 138 is about 125 degrees. - Referring now to
FIG. 6 , some embodiments include amodular office system 200 including a plurality ofwalls 201 defining a plurality of at least partially enclosed, substantially parallelogram-shapedoffice areas 202 that each include two opposite acute angles and two opposite obtuse angles. As one skilled in the art will appreciate and as well-known in the art, each of parallelogram-shapedoffice areas 202 can be positioned adjacent one another and can share common walls. Each of parallelogram-shapedoffice areas 202 is configured similarly or the same as parallelogram-shapedoffice area 102. - At least one of plurality of side surfaces 126 is joined with at least one of plurality of side surfaces 134 to define worker-
side edge 140. In addition to generally radiating toward firstlongitudinal axis 128, apredetermined curvature 142 is selected so worker-side edge 140 also generally radiates toward secondlongitudinal axis 136. At least one of plurality of side surfaces 134 may define a guest-side edge 144 that is substantially opposite a portion 146 of worker-side edge 140. A guest work area 148 is defined substantially on a portion 150 oftop surface 130 ofdiagonal portion 108 adjacent guest-side edge 144. A remainingportion 152 ofdiagonal portion 108 defines a portion ofworker work area 154. Guest-side edge 144 may include at least one portion 156 with a predetermined curvature 158 that is selected so that the at least one portion radiates toward firstlongitudinal axis 128. Guest-side edge 144 may also include at least one portion 160 with a predetermined curvature 162 that is selected so that the at least one portion radiates toward secondlongitudinal axis 136. - Many aspects of
desktop 104 are similar to similar aspects ofdesktops Desktop 104 is typically sized similarly todesktops office area 102 in which it is positioned. Exemplary dimensions for one substantially parallelogram-shapedoffice area 102 includes two sides having a length of about five to seven feet and two sides having a length of about six feet to nine feet. In one embodiment, two sides are six feet and two sides are seven and one-half feet. - Desktops according to the disclosed subject matter are typically fabricated from solid wood and/or composite wood materials. Generally, all of the surfaces of the disclosed subject matter are flat and/or smooth. However, desktops according to the disclosed subject matter may also be fabricated from plastic, metal, stone, and any other material that both includes substantially flat surfaces and may be fabricated according to the geometrical configurations of the disclosed subject matter.
- The desktop of the disclosed subject matter offers advantages over existing desktop and related office furniture systems. A 9′×12′ office space including an office furniture system with a desktop according to the disclosed subject matter generally provides up to 40% more useful surface space over traditional U-shaped office furniture systems. The inward curves of both the diagonal portion and first portion encourage collaboration and maximize workspace for both the worker/user and guests. The outward curves of the diagonal portion generally provide guests with arm space, additional work areas over existing systems, and comfortable separation between one another. The inward and outward curves result in a distance between users that is much more personal and induces more of a side-by-side feeling rather than an oppositional feeling. The diagonal orientation of the diagonal portion with respect to the first portion allows guests to more easily view a computer monitor of the worker/user.
- Although the invention has been described and illustrated with respect to exemplary embodiments thereof, it should be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing and various other changes, omissions and additions may be made therein and thereto, without parting from the spirit and scope of the disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, other embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.
Claims (6)
1. A modular office system comprising:
a plurality of walls defining an at least partially enclosed, substantially parallelogram-shaped office area, said substantially parallelogram-shaped office area including two opposite acute angles and two opposite obtuse angles, each of said plurality of walls defining an axis; and
a desktop including:
a first portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite said top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, said first portion having a first longitudinal axis, said first longitudinal axis substantially bisecting said top surface of said first portion, said first longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to one of said axes defined by one of said plurality of walls; and
a diagonal portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite said top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, said diagonal portion being joined with said first portion, said diagonal portion having a second longitudinal axis, said second longitudinal axis substantially bisecting said top surface of said diagonal portion and being substantially parallel to a different one of said axes defined by one of said plurality of walls than said first longitudinal axis;
wherein said first portion and said diagonal portion are oriented so said first longitudinal axis and said second longitudinal axis are diagonal to one another and define an obtuse angle between said first longitudinal axis and said second longitudinal axis.
2. A modular office system according to claim 1 , wherein said angle between said first longitudinal axis and said second longitudinal axis is about 110 to 130 degrees.
3. A modular office system according to claim 2 , wherein said angle between said first longitudinal axis and said second longitudinal axis is about 125 degrees.
4. A modular office system comprising:
a plurality of walls defining a plurality of at least partially enclosed, substantially parallelogram-shaped office areas, each of said substantially parallelogram-shaped office areas including two opposite acute angles and two opposite obtuse angles, each of said plurality of walls defining an axis; and
desktops including:
a first portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite said top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, said first portion having a first longitudinal axis, said first longitudinal axis substantially bisecting said top surface of said first portion, said first longitudinal axis being substantially parallel to one of said axes defined by one of said plurality of walls; and
a diagonal portion having a top surface, a bottom surface opposite said top surface, and a plurality of side surfaces, said diagonal portion being joined with said first portion, said diagonal portion having a second longitudinal axis, said second longitudinal axis substantially bisecting said top surface of said diagonal portion and being substantially parallel to a different one of said axes defined by one of said plurality of walls than said first longitudinal axis;
wherein said first portion and said diagonal portion are oriented so said first longitudinal axis and said second longitudinal axis are diagonal to one another and define an obtuse angle between said first longitudinal axis and said second longitudinal axis.
5. A modular office system according to claim 4 , wherein said angle between said first longitudinal axis and said second longitudinal axis is about 110 to 130 degrees.
6. A modular office system according to claim 5 , wherein said angle between said first longitudinal axis and said second longitudinal axis is about 120 degrees.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/254,394 US20090038236A1 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2008-10-20 | Modular Office System |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/444,647 US7438002B2 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2006-05-31 | Desktop |
US12/254,394 US20090038236A1 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2008-10-20 | Modular Office System |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/444,647 Continuation US7438002B2 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2006-05-31 | Desktop |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090038236A1 true US20090038236A1 (en) | 2009-02-12 |
Family
ID=38779467
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/444,647 Expired - Fee Related US7438002B2 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2006-05-31 | Desktop |
US12/254,394 Abandoned US20090038236A1 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2008-10-20 | Modular Office System |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/444,647 Expired - Fee Related US7438002B2 (en) | 2006-05-31 | 2006-05-31 | Desktop |
Country Status (5)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7438002B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP2028971A4 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2009538719A (en) |
CN (1) | CN101484044A (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007140446A2 (en) |
Families Citing this family (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8402900B2 (en) * | 2006-10-06 | 2013-03-26 | Formway Furniture Limited | Interactive workstation |
US20100213145A1 (en) * | 2009-02-24 | 2010-08-26 | Tracey Elisabeth Swank | Magnetic towel rack and towel system and method for its use |
USD732850S1 (en) * | 2012-10-23 | 2015-06-30 | Vitra Patente Ag | Office cabin |
US20170049237A1 (en) * | 2015-08-21 | 2017-02-23 | Roberto Nocik, Jr. | Shower shelf |
US10174515B1 (en) | 2016-05-06 | 2019-01-08 | Daniel John Krivens | Semi-private desk and meeting area |
Citations (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US242832A (en) * | 1881-06-14 | Fire-escape | ||
US332954A (en) * | 1885-12-22 | Joseph silbeenik | ||
US346912A (en) * | 1886-08-10 | Island | ||
US366373A (en) * | 1887-07-12 | Machine for making horseshoes | ||
US394569A (en) * | 1888-12-18 | Boiler feed-regulator | ||
US3053598A (en) * | 1960-08-08 | 1962-09-11 | Cheslow Ernest | Set of tables |
US3533362A (en) * | 1968-07-24 | 1970-10-13 | Oxford Filing Supply Co Inc | Modular office table or desk |
US3871435A (en) * | 1971-04-01 | 1975-03-18 | Reflector Hardware Corp | Modular room divider |
US4879955A (en) * | 1987-06-23 | 1989-11-14 | Planmoebel Eggersman Gmbh & Co. Kg | Office workstation |
US4914873A (en) * | 1987-03-05 | 1990-04-10 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Work environment system |
USD332954S (en) * | 1988-05-30 | 1993-02-02 | Rimoldi, S.R.L. | Work station to stitch manufactured items |
US5743193A (en) * | 1996-01-18 | 1998-04-28 | Okamura Corporation | Table with an elevating panel, an elevating table and a combination thereof |
US5967058A (en) * | 1997-06-02 | 1999-10-19 | Flex-Rest, Llc | Articulatable furniture |
US5992332A (en) * | 1998-02-03 | 1999-11-30 | Steelcase Development Inc. | Elliptical worksurface profile |
US6282854B1 (en) * | 1998-06-05 | 2001-09-04 | Trendway Corporation | Frame-based workplace system |
US6286275B1 (en) * | 1998-06-22 | 2001-09-11 | John R. Edwards | Workspace wall system with elevated raceway |
US6453826B1 (en) * | 1999-04-30 | 2002-09-24 | Haworth, Inc. | Furniture arrangement having a slidable intermediate table |
US6701682B2 (en) * | 2000-10-17 | 2004-03-09 | Itoki Crebio Corporation | Workspace system for improving productiveness in intellectual activities |
US6712470B2 (en) * | 2002-04-10 | 2004-03-30 | Topcon American Corporation | System and method for measuring vision |
US6751914B2 (en) * | 2002-03-01 | 2004-06-22 | Steelcase Development Corporation | Post and beam furniture system |
US20050016080A1 (en) * | 2003-06-12 | 2005-01-27 | Williams Otto N. | Office system |
Family Cites Families (8)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
USD242832S (en) * | 1975-01-22 | 1976-12-28 | The University Of Mississippi | Work center |
USD346912S (en) * | 1990-10-20 | 1994-05-17 | Wilhelm Renz Gmbh & Co. | Combined table and storage unit |
USD366373S (en) * | 1994-12-08 | 1996-01-23 | Reese Michael S | Curved pedestal desk |
US5787648A (en) * | 1997-03-19 | 1998-08-04 | M. Arthur Gensler Jr. & Associates, Inc. | Workstation with work surface |
USD394569S (en) * | 1997-03-19 | 1998-05-26 | M. Arthur Gensler Jr. & Associates, Inc. | Workstation work surface |
US6193338B1 (en) * | 1998-04-17 | 2001-02-27 | Bruce Kocer | Computer desk |
US6220181B1 (en) * | 1999-10-21 | 2001-04-24 | Marek Horski | Ergonomic CAD (computer aided design) workstation |
FR2812525A1 (en) * | 2000-08-01 | 2002-02-08 | Techni Concept | Work station has horizontal worktop with cut-outs on each side, allowing stands or trolleys for tools and work materials to be positioned close to worker |
-
2006
- 2006-05-31 US US11/444,647 patent/US7438002B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2007
- 2007-05-31 EP EP07762364A patent/EP2028971A4/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2007-05-31 WO PCT/US2007/070043 patent/WO2007140446A2/en active Application Filing
- 2007-05-31 JP JP2009513449A patent/JP2009538719A/en active Pending
- 2007-05-31 CN CNA2007800247271A patent/CN101484044A/en active Pending
-
2008
- 2008-10-20 US US12/254,394 patent/US20090038236A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US242832A (en) * | 1881-06-14 | Fire-escape | ||
US332954A (en) * | 1885-12-22 | Joseph silbeenik | ||
US346912A (en) * | 1886-08-10 | Island | ||
US366373A (en) * | 1887-07-12 | Machine for making horseshoes | ||
US394569A (en) * | 1888-12-18 | Boiler feed-regulator | ||
US3053598A (en) * | 1960-08-08 | 1962-09-11 | Cheslow Ernest | Set of tables |
US3533362A (en) * | 1968-07-24 | 1970-10-13 | Oxford Filing Supply Co Inc | Modular office table or desk |
US3871435A (en) * | 1971-04-01 | 1975-03-18 | Reflector Hardware Corp | Modular room divider |
US4914873A (en) * | 1987-03-05 | 1990-04-10 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Work environment system |
US4879955A (en) * | 1987-06-23 | 1989-11-14 | Planmoebel Eggersman Gmbh & Co. Kg | Office workstation |
USD332954S (en) * | 1988-05-30 | 1993-02-02 | Rimoldi, S.R.L. | Work station to stitch manufactured items |
US5743193A (en) * | 1996-01-18 | 1998-04-28 | Okamura Corporation | Table with an elevating panel, an elevating table and a combination thereof |
US5967058A (en) * | 1997-06-02 | 1999-10-19 | Flex-Rest, Llc | Articulatable furniture |
US5992332A (en) * | 1998-02-03 | 1999-11-30 | Steelcase Development Inc. | Elliptical worksurface profile |
US6282854B1 (en) * | 1998-06-05 | 2001-09-04 | Trendway Corporation | Frame-based workplace system |
US6286275B1 (en) * | 1998-06-22 | 2001-09-11 | John R. Edwards | Workspace wall system with elevated raceway |
US6453826B1 (en) * | 1999-04-30 | 2002-09-24 | Haworth, Inc. | Furniture arrangement having a slidable intermediate table |
US6701682B2 (en) * | 2000-10-17 | 2004-03-09 | Itoki Crebio Corporation | Workspace system for improving productiveness in intellectual activities |
US6751914B2 (en) * | 2002-03-01 | 2004-06-22 | Steelcase Development Corporation | Post and beam furniture system |
US6712470B2 (en) * | 2002-04-10 | 2004-03-30 | Topcon American Corporation | System and method for measuring vision |
US20050016080A1 (en) * | 2003-06-12 | 2005-01-27 | Williams Otto N. | Office system |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
JP2009538719A (en) | 2009-11-12 |
WO2007140446A2 (en) | 2007-12-06 |
US20070277708A1 (en) | 2007-12-06 |
CN101484044A (en) | 2009-07-15 |
US7438002B2 (en) | 2008-10-21 |
WO2007140446A3 (en) | 2008-02-28 |
EP2028971A2 (en) | 2009-03-04 |
EP2028971A4 (en) | 2012-04-04 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US7438002B2 (en) | Desktop | |
USD485709S1 (en) | Furniture | |
US6769369B1 (en) | Modular furniture system | |
US6247754B1 (en) | Take apart chair | |
US6363866B1 (en) | Table construction | |
US8087730B2 (en) | Combined backrest for a chair | |
USD943594S1 (en) | Notebook computer stand | |
US5255966A (en) | Freestanding furniture ensemble | |
CZ208297A3 (en) | Combined chair | |
US7694968B2 (en) | Playing card viewer | |
USD512535S1 (en) | Sling | |
USD623445S1 (en) | Leg for workstation | |
USD520016S1 (en) | Side and top panels for a desktop computer case | |
US5992332A (en) | Elliptical worksurface profile | |
USD421976S (en) | Computer keyboard | |
USD480077S1 (en) | Computer workstation | |
USD484135S1 (en) | Faceplate of a handheld computer | |
US20080148658A1 (en) | Workspace dividing system | |
JP4287195B2 (en) | Work table and work area layout using it | |
USD480082S1 (en) | Computer workstation | |
USD407234S (en) | Computer desk | |
USD972561S1 (en) | Computer mouse | |
JP3627183B2 (en) | Connection structure of multiple panels | |
USD1011338S1 (en) | All-in-one computer | |
USD406823S (en) | Desktop personal computer |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |