WO2001091609A9 - Improved office furniture system - Google Patents

Abstract

An improved, multifunction office furniture system having a novel interlocking connecting mechanism (70) which permits the easy assembly of a variety of different structural components in a variety of different configurations to form highly efficient work areas. The system includes uniquely configured, vertical support columns (27) to which a number of different types of structural components can be quickly and easily connected and provides a highly versatile work station system which is very attractive, is easy to assemble, disassemble and adjust, and yet, is structurally sound and durable in use. Because of its novel construction, the system is capable of readily accommodating changing work conditions in the users' facilities.

Description

IMPROVED OFFICE FURNITURE SYSTEM

S P E C I F I C A T I O N

Background of the Invention

This is a Continuation-In-Part application of a co-pending application Serial

No. 09/165,409 filed October 2₅ 1998.

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to office furniture. More particu¬

larly, the invention concerns an improved, multifunction ofQce inrniture system

having a novel interlocking connecting mechanism which permits the easy as¬

sembly of a variety of different structural components in a variety of different

configurations to form highly efficient work areas.

Discussion of the Prior Art

Office furniture systems that exhibit superior structural characteristics and

which exhibit flexibility and interchangeability among the parts to create multi¬

purpose and multi-function work stations are in wide demand for many instira- •

ional applications. Entities having great need for such office systems include

schools, hotels, business offices, and various governmental entities. Particularlv in demand are flexible office systems that are easily altered to fit the work envi¬

ronment and meet the work requirements,

While many types of office systems have been suggested in the past, a

typical drawback of such office systems is lack of flexibility to fit the space al¬

lowed for the work environment requiring the work environment to fit the office

system. As a general rule, when the prior art furniture designers have attempted

to overcome this limitation in prior art designs, such designs lack the structural

strength and flexibility to meet the work requirements.

The prior art systems typically use a variety of different arrangements to

interconnect together desk tops, cabinets, files and otlier structural components to

form variously configured work stations. Exemplary of a typical prior art adjust¬

able desk system is that described in U.S. Patent No 5,544,593 issued Canfield et.

al. The Canfield patent discloses a basic superstructure that permits various can¬

tilever supports to be connected thereto for supporting desk tops, pedestals and

the like so that the various components can be adjusted relative to one another.

The basic Canfield superstructure also pennits back to back mounting of cabi¬

nets, desk tops and like components to provide separated work spaces.

Another prior art desk system is disclosed in U.S. Patent No, 5,038,539 is¬

sued to Kelly et. al. This later patent describes a work space management system

for dividing an open work space into separate, discrete work areas. The Kelly et al system includes a wall system havmg a f amework formed of rigid rectangular

frames joined together at their edges to form the defined work areas. The Kelly

et al patent also discloses various wire management components which are se¬

cured to the f ames for routing comm uiication and power wiring.

A drawback of many of the prior art adjustable desk systems resides in the

fact that the systems are generally quite complex, are often ergonomically un¬

sound and, while often providing for adjustability of some components, fail to

provide the overall convenience and flexibility required by modern computer in¬

tensive offices. In this connection, the constantly changing technology and the

rapid emergence of computer networking systems have created an ever increasing

demand for easily adaptable office fiirnittire. Additionally, because of increases

in repetitive stress injuries, there is a great demand for systems of the aforemen¬

tioned character which offer ergonomic features that effectively guard against

stress hijury.

As will be discussed in detail in die paragraphs which follow, the desk

system of the present invention overcomes many of the drawbacks of prior art

systems by providing a system which is of a simple, ergonomically sound design

and yet has great versatility. The system of the present invention is not only

practical in use but provides an extremely attractive, structurally sound, free¬

standing work-area defining unit which is ideally suited for modern office com- plexes. The system is easy to assemble and disassemble by relatively unskilled

workers and is uniquely designed to provide a safe and productive work envi¬

ronment.

Siumnary of the Invention

It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel office system

construction that is ideally suited for use in schools, hotels, business offices, and

governmental offices, and similar commercial establishments.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a flexible construction

for an office system that will permit the user to fit the office system to the work

environment rather than fitting the work environment to the office system.

Another object of the invention is to provide a highly versatile work station

system which is very attractive, is easy to assemble, disassemble and adjust, and

yet, is structurally sound and durable in use.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system of the character de¬

scribed which is capable of readily accoimnodating changing work conditions m

the users facilities.

Another object of the invention is to provide a fully adjustable, highly ver¬

satile work station system which includes a number of ergonomic features which

provide a safe and productive work environment. O 01/091609

Another object of the invention is to provide a desk system which includes

uniquely configured, vertical support coliunns to which a number of different

types of structural components can be quickly and easily connected.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system of the character de¬

scribed in the preceding paragraph which is specially designed to eliminate under

work surface obstacles.

Another object of the invention is to provide an adjustable desk system that

includes a novel cable management systems which enables effective cable man¬

agement within the structural components of the apparatus so that the cables are

well protected from damage and yet are easily accessible so as to provide a wid&

range of electrical and communication capabilities.

Another object of the invention is to provide a desk system of the class de¬

scribed that is designed for ease and speed of installation and is readily adjustable

into various configurations using a number of different types of readily inter¬

changeable components.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 is a generally perspective view of one form of the desk system of

the present invention.

Figure 2 is a generally perspective, exploded view illustrating the manner

by which certain of the components, such as the divider panels of the system, are releasably intercoimected with one of tlie novel vertical support coluimis of the

apparatus.

Figure 3 is a generally perspective, exploded view similar to figure 2 illus¬

trating the manner by which the outwardly extending side members of the leg as¬

sembly of tlie desk system are releasably interconnected with one of the novel

vertical support ^"columns of tlie apparatus.

Figure 4 is a generally perspective, exploded view similar to figures 2 and

3 illustrating the manner of interconnection of d e structural panels of the system

with one of the novel vertical support coliunns of tlie apparatus.

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of one of the novel vertical support col¬

uimis of the apparatus and a portion of one of tlie angularly extending attachment

brackets that can be engaged into incremental notches formed in tlie corners of

die support coluimis.

Figure 6 is a generally perspective view of a closure shroud element which

is receivable within radially outwardly extending grooves formed in each of the

vertical support coluimis.

Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of a stiffener element of the character

used to interconnect together two or more lengths of the support columns of the

invention. Figure 8 is a generally perspective, exploded view illustrating the manner

of mtercomiection of several of the different component parts of the desk system

with longitudinally spaced apart vertical support columns of tl e character shown

in figures 2 through 5.

Figure 9 is a generally perspective, exploded view illustrating tlie manner

of interconnection of die wing-like side members of the leg assemblies and tlie

floor engaging, stabilizing members of the leg assembly with an elongated con¬

nector element that peπnits mtercomiection of the leg assemblies with a selected

one of the vertical support columns of tlie invention.

Figure 10 is a generally perspective, exploded view of one form of the

structural panel of the desk system.

Figure 11 is a generally perspective, exploded view of one form of tlie

connector means of tlie invention which is used to interconnect first and second

lengths or segments of the vertical support coluimis.

Figure 12 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view showing the wing-like sides

of the leg assembly interconnected with one of the vertical support columns and

also illustrating the column segment connector means of the invention including

the stiffener element shown in figure 7 which is disposed internally of the vertical

support column. Figure 13 is a generally perspective front view of a portion of an alternate

form of the desk system of tlie present invention that includes a novel wire man¬

agement system.

Figure 14 is a generally perspective rear view of a portion of the desk sys¬

tem of the alternate form of the invention shown prior to tlie electiical wiring

being completed.

Figure 15 is a generally perspective rear view of a portion of the desk sys¬

tem similar to figure 14 but showing tl e electrical outlet boxes and tlie remainder

of the wiring in place within the wire management system.

Figure 16 is an enlarged generally perspective rear view of another adja¬

cent portion of tlie desk system of this alternate embodiment of the invention il¬

lustrating the interconnection of additional, power and telephone lines.

Figure 17 is a front view of a portion of the desk system shown in figure

16.

Figure 18 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines 18-18 of

figure 17.

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 19-19 of figure 18.

Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 20-20 of figure 19.

Figure 21 A and 2 IB when taken together comprise a greatly enlarged

cross-sectional view taken along lines 21-21 of figure 17. Figure 22 is a fragmentary view illustrating the manner by which the wire

management closure panels are hingeably connected to tlie longitudinally ex¬

tending structural support members of the apparatus.

Figure 23 is an enlarged fragmentary, generally perspective view of a por¬

tion of one of the wire management closure panels.

Figure 24 is a generally perspective view illustrating the corner connection

of a longitudinally extending wire management component and a transversely

extending wire management component.

Figure 25 is a generally perspective view of a desk top gromet assembly

for permitting the passage of cable through the desk top to the wire management

system.

Figure 26 is an end view, partly in section, of the gromet assembly shown

in figure 25.

Figure 27 is a front view of the gromet assembly.

Figure 28 is a diagrammatic, exploded view showing the manner in which

the gromet assembly is interconnected with the desk top.

Figure 29 is a fragmentary view illustrating the inward movement of the

cover support of the gromet assembly as the assembly is inserted into the gromet

receiving opening formed in the desk top. O 01/091609

Figure 30 is a fragmentary view illustrating the inward movement of the

locking member of tl e grommet assembly as tlie assembly is inserted into the

groin met receiving opening

Figure 31 is a top view of the grommet assembly when in position within

tlie opening formed in the desk top.

Figure 32 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines 32-32 of

figure 31.

Figure 33 is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along lines 33-33 of

figure 31.

Figure 34 is an end view, partly hi section of an alternate form of grommet

assembly of the invention.

Figure 35 is a front view of the alternate form of grommet assembly shown

in figure 34.

Figure 36 is a cross-sectional view showing tl e grommet assembly in po¬

sition within a grommet-receiving opening in the work surface.

Figure 37 is a generally perspective view of one form of central processing

unit support assembly of the invention and a portion of tlie leg support assembly

to which it is connected. Figure 38 is a fragmentary generally perspective view similar to figure 37

but better illustrating the configuration of the locking member that secures tlie

CPU support to one of the leg support assemblies of the desk system.

Figure 39 is a generally perspective view of the locking member shown in

figure 38.

Figure 40^' is a generally perspective view of an alternate form of computer

processing unit support (CPU) assembly of the invention and a portion of the leg

support assembly to which it is connected.

Figure 41 is a fragmentary, side-elevational view further illustrating the

configuration of the alternate form of the CPU support shown in figure 40.

Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 42-42 of figure 41.

Figure 43 is an enlarged, fragmentary, cross-sectional view taken along

lines 43-43 of figure 42 showing the manner of interconnection of the alternate

CPU support with a portion of the leg support assembly of the mvention.

Figure 44 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 44-44 of figure 42

further illustrating tlie manner of interconnection of the alternate CPU support

with a portion of the leg support assembly.

Figure 45 is a cross-sectional view taken along lines 45-45 of figure 41.

Figure 46 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines 46-46 of

figure 45. Figure 47 is an enlarged, cross-sectional view taken along lines 47-47 of

figure 41.

Figure 48 is a generally perspective, exploded view of the alternate form of

CPU support.

Figure 49 is a side-elevational view of an alternate form of outlet box and

an alternate form of mounting means for mounting the outlet box on the support

members of the wire management panel assemblies.

Figure 49A is an enlarged, fragmentary view better h usfrating the configu¬

ration of one of the mounting clips to which the alternate form of outlet box is

connected.

Figure 50 is a front view of the outlet box assembly shown in figure 49.

Figure 51 is a side-elevational view of still another alternate form of outlet

box for carrying duplex electrical outiets.

Figure 52 is an enlarged, front view of the outlet box assemblage shown in

figure 51.

Figure 53 is a view taken along lines 53-53 of figure 52.

Description of the Invention

Referring to the drawings and particularly to figures 1 tlirough 8, one form

of the desk system of the present invention is there illustrated. As best seen in

n figure 1, one embodiment of the desk system comprises four identical, individual

work stations 12 which are interconnected in a back-to-back relationship to pro¬

vide a free standing array. Each of the four work stations 12 includes a generally

horizontally extending first work surface 14 and a second elevated work surface

16. The back edges 14a and 14b and 16a and 16b of each of the work surfaces 14

and 16 extend at right angles to one another and the front edges of each of the

work surfaces are curved in the manner shown in figure 1 to permit ergonomi¬

cally desirable access to the work surfaces by one or two persons using the work

station.

One end of work surface 14 is supported by a storage unit 18 which in¬

cludes a plurality of slidably mounted, stacked drawers 20. The other, or right

edge of work surface 14 as viewed in figure 1 is supported by one of tl e novel

leg assembly of tlie invention generally designated in figure 1 tlie numeral 22.

This novel leg support assembly 22 includes a pair of outwardly extending, floor

engaging stabilizer members 24 and a pair of wing-like side members 30 which

are connected to central support 27 in a manner presently be discussed.

A key aspect of the desk system of the present invention is the previously

mentioned support member or column 27 which has the unique cross-sectional

configuration shown in figures 2 tlirough 5 of the drawings. This novel support,

is used in several key locations in the system configuration shown in figure 1. For example, the central support column is used in the previously identified leg

assembly 22, in a somewhat similar leg assembly 22a disposed at d e left end of

the work station as viewed in figure 1, and in an intermediate location where the

leg assembly is designated as 22b. This highly novel support column not only

functions to support the work surfaces of the system, but also functions to support

plurality of laterally extending and longitudinally extending structural panels 32

which are disposed below the work surface 14. Additionally, the novel support

columns support a plurality of longitudinally and laterally extending divider pan¬

els 34 which are disposed above the work surface. Divider panels 34 function to

separate tlie four back-to-back work stations in the manner illustrated in figure 1.

The lower structural panels 32, which are of a unique construction pres¬

ently to be described, provide structural integrity to the array and extend gener¬

ally perpendicularly outwardly from tlie walls of support columns 27 in the man¬

ner illustrated in figures 1 and 6. For example, several lateral structural panels

extend from column 27 of leg assembly 22, while several longitudmal structural

panels extend from column 27 of leg assembly 22a (figure 1). Similarly, a lateral

divider panel extends from an upper column segment 27a of leg assembly 22

while a longitudmal divider panel extends from an upper column segment 27a of

leg assembly 22a. At least one longitudinally extending structural support panel,

(designated in figure 8 by the numeral 33), comprises a wire management control panel. This novel wire support panel 33 includes a tray-like member 33a

which functions to support and separate electrical cables and the like which can

be connected to conventional floor outlet 35 and then introduced into the interior

of a selected one or more of the wing-like side members 30 and the wire support

panels 33. The cables can also be connected to a ceiling outlet and run down¬

wardly through stacked column segments.

Another novel feature of tlie desk s3^ste of the present mvention com¬

prises the column segment connector means which functions to connect together

first and second lengths or segments of support columns 27. For example, as

shown in figure 1, the previously identified lower support columns 27 can be in¬

terconnected with upper support columns designated in figure 1 as 27a to con¬

veniently extend the overall height of the support column. For example, the

novel segment connector means, the details of which will presently be described,

can be used to securely interconnect lower segments 27 with upper segments 27a

so that the upper segments 27a can rigidly support the longitudinally extending

divider panels 34 in the manner indicated in figures 1 and 8.

As also indicated in figure 8, certain of the wing-like, side members 30 can

be^'provided with vertically spaced-apart slots 39 which are adapted to receive

outwardly extending cantilever type support members 40 which can, where de¬

ls O 01/091609

sired, function to support outward extending, auxiliary work surfaces such as the

work surface identified in figure 8 by the numeral 42.

Turning next to figures 2 through 5, the details of construction of the im¬

portant support members or columns 27 and 27a of the invention are there illus¬

trated. As best seen in figure 5, each of the support members 27 has a central

axis 46, first and second opposing side walls 48 and 50 respectively. Front and

back walls 52 and 54 are integrally formed with or otherwise connected to side

walls 48 and 50 in the manner best seen in figure 3. Each of the front, back and

side walls includes a central portion 56 and first and second spaced-apart mar¬

ginal portions 58. Disposed between the central portions and the marginal por¬

tions of each of the walls are first and second grooves generally designated in the

drawings by the numeral 60. Each of the marginal portions 58 of each of the side

walls 48 and 50 includes a first edge 62. Similarly, each of the marginal portions

58 of each of the front and back walls 52 and 54 includes a second edge 64 (fig¬

ure 5). Disposed between each of the edges 62 and 64 is a corner groove 67

which extends generally radially outwardly from central axis 46 of tlie support

column. These radially outwardly extending grooves 67 are closed by back walls

which are provided with spaced-apart slots 67a (figure 2). Slots 67a are adapted

to receive engagement fingers 150a of cantilevered supports 150 which are of the same general character as those shown in figure 8 and can be used to support

auxiliary work surfaces such as shelves.

A unique feature of the desk system of the present invention resides in the

fact that each of the components which is interconnected with the columns 27 in¬

cludes a specially configured connector strip which is provided with a pair of

spaced-apart tongues that are slidably receivable within grooves 60 provided in

each of the support column segments 27 and 27a. This novel feature permits the

various components of the desk system to be quickly and easily interconnected

with and removed from the various spaced-apart support columns 27 which pro¬

vide vertical support to the components of the assembled array. More particu¬

larly, as can best be seen by referring to figure 2, each of the divider panels 34

includes a uniquely configured connector member 70 which is provided with

spaced-apart tongues 70a. As indicated in figure 2, tongues 70a are slidably re¬

ceivable within selected grooves 60 provided in the support column 27a there

shown. As indicated in figure 2, connector member 70 is, in turn, adapted to be

interconnected along its length with a selected divider panel 34 by any suitable

means such as threaded connector or the like. It is apparent that with this con¬

struction, selected panels 34 can be quickly and easily removably interconnected

with any one of the support columns 27a to construct the arrays shown in figures

1 and 8. Referring particularly to figures 3 and 12, it is to be noted that each of the

wing-like side members 30 which form the previously identified leg assemblies

22, 22a and 22b include a specially configured connector member 74 which in¬

cludes spaced-apart tongues 74a and 74b which are slidably receivable within

grooves 60 provided in the support column 27 shown in figure 3. i this latter

case, connector member 74 is also provided with a pair of grooves 74b which

slidably accept spaced-apart tongues 76 formed proximate the in-board ends of

wing-like members 30.

Turning to figures 4 and 10, it can be seen that, in similar fashion, each of

the structural panels 32 and 33 of the invention include novel end plates 80, each

of which is provided with a pair of spaced-apart tongues 80a which are slidably

receivable within grooves 60 formed in the side walls 48 and 50 of the various

spaced-apart support columns which are spanned by the structural support panels

32 in the manner shown in figure 8. Once again, it is apparent that with the novel

construction of the structural panels as is shown in figures 4, 8, and 10, the panels

can be readily interconnected with spaced-apart support columns 27 in the man¬

ner shown in figure 8 to provide a high degree of structural integrity to the desk

system arrays shown in figures 1 and 8. It is also to be understood that the wire

management panels such as panel 33 also includes connector members 80 pro¬

vided at each end thereof which connector members are also slidably receivable

is within grooves 60 provided in the spaced-apart support columns which function

to support the wire management panels.

Referring particularly to figures 4 and 10, each of the structural panels 32

can be seen to comprise, in addition to end connector assemblies 80, first and

second uniquely configured structural beams 84 and 86 which are connected to

and span spaced-apart end connectors 80. Structural beams 84 and 86 are gener¬

ally mushroomed shaped in cross-section so as to resist bending forces exerted on

the members and each includes laterally spaced-apart, tab-receiving openings 87a

and 87b (figure 10). Openings 87a and 87b are adapted to closely telescopically

receive tab-like protuberances 80a and 80b formed proximate the upper and

lower ends of each of the connector members 80.

Connected proximate to each end of beams 84 are 86 are connectors blocks

88, each of which has spaced-apart screw receiving openings 88a which are sized

to receive connector means shown here as a plurality of thread forming metal

screws 89 (figure 10). Thread forrning metal screws 89 extend through openings

91 formed in each of the end plates 80 and are tlieadably received witi in the

screw receiving channels 88a formed in connector blocks 88. With the construc¬

tion thus described, when tabs 80a and 80b of end connectors 80 are inserted into

openings 87a, and 87b, provided in each of the structural beams 84, the assem¬

blage thus formed can be securely drawn together and locked in position relative to the end plates by tlmeading the thread forming screws 89 into the screw re¬

ceiving channels 88a provided in each of the connector blocks 88. It is to be un¬

derstood that rivets can also be used as connectors to connect blocks 88 to end

plates 80. After the end connectors 80 have been securely interconnected with

the structural beams and the connector blocks, the assemblage thus formed is

covered by first and second side closure panels 96 and 98 so as to enclose there¬

between the spanner members and the connector blocks.

Also forming a part of each of the structural panels 32 are locking means

for locking the end connectors 80 in a fixed position relative to the structural

supports 27 from which they extend in the manner shown in figure 4. These

locking means are here provided in the form of a spring loaded locking mecha¬

nism 100 which comprises a supporting bracket 102 which is connected to con¬

nectors 80, and a spring biased locking finger 104 which is carried by bracket.

Locking finger 104 is continuously biased outwardly through a slot 105 formed

in the connector body by biasing means, shown here as coil spring 106 (see also

figure 4). With this construction, when the end plates 80 are assembled with a

selected support column 27, locking finger will snap into engagement with one of

a plurality of slit like openings 109 formed in all four walls of the vertical support

column segments 27 and 27a (figures 2 and 8). It is to be understood that the locking means of tlie invention can also be

disposed internally of leg assembly side members 30 and can function to position

the side members relative to the support columns 27 with which they are associ¬

ated (see for example figure 9).

Turning to figure 9, it can he seen that side members 30 are interconnected

with the previously identified elongated connector member 74 with the locking

means of tlie mvention, or mechanisms 100 being interconnected to the interface

of connector 74. Receivable within the lower open end of side member 30 is a

connector block 112 which enables interconnection of the stabilizer members 24

with side members 30 by means of tiireaded connectors 114 which are threadably

received within block 112. More particularly, connector block 112 is telescopi-

cally received within the lower open end of tlie side members 30 and is held in

position by fasteners 112a which extend through connector member 74 and func¬

tion to connect connector block 112 with connector member 74 and member 30.

The assemblage tiius formed is then connected with die stabilizer member 24 h

d e manner previously described. Cavity 116 includes a bottom wall which re¬

ceives tiireaded connectors 114 so that when the connectors are threadably inter¬

connected with connector block 112, the assemblage made up of side member 30

and connector 74 will be securely locked in position relative to stabilizer member

24 to form a stable, securely interconnected subasse bly. In the leg assemblage illustrated in figure 9, the side member 30 is provided with a cable receiving

opening 117 which permits convenient cable routing into the wire management

structural panels. Openings 117 can be closed by removable closure panels 117a.

Similarly, the outboard ends of members 30 and 30a can be closed by elongated

closure strips 119.

In the desk system construction illustrated in figure 1, upper side members

30a are connected to lower side members 30 in the manner there shown and

function to provide structural stability to die upper portions of the array. Provid¬

ing further structural stability are the divider panels 34 which are disposed

proximate tlie right and left ends of the array as viewed in figure 1. As shown in

figure 9, side members 30a are interconnected with vertical support column 27a

by means of an elongated connector member 74a which is of a construction

similar to that of connector 74. The upper open end of side members 30a are

preferably closed by a plastic closure cap 120 of the general configuration shown

in figure 9.

When desired, floor engaging castors 122 can be connected to stabilizer 24

in the mamier indicated in figure 9 (see also figure 1). When desired, similar

castors 122 can be connected directly to side members 30 in the manner shown in

figure 1. In this latter instance, a cover 125 (figure 8), tlirough which the castor

is threadably connected to block 112 (figure 9) is connected to side members 30. Turning next to figures 11 and 12, the details of die construction of tl e

previously identified segment connector means of the invention can ti ere be

seen. In d e present form of the invention, tlie segment connector means com¬

prise a plurality of spaced-apart connector assemblies 126. Each of the side con¬

nector assemblies comprise a bearing plate 128 having corner portions which are

carmiiingly received within internal grooves 131 formed in supports 27 (figure 2).

Each assembly also includes a washer 130, a securing nut 132, and a plate lock

134. A first connector assemblage 126a is secured internally of support columns

27 proximate tl e lower extremities thereof. And a second threaded connector

element assembly 126b is disposed within, support colu ns 27 proximate their

upper extremities (figure 11). The assemblies are held securely in position within

the support columns by the hearing plates 128 which, when rotated within col¬

umns 27 will cam into grooves 131. The resiliently deformable, outwardly ex¬

tending wing-like tabs 134a foπned on the plate locks 134 bite into the interior

walls of die support columns 27 and prevent die bearing plates 128 from counter-

rotating out of grooves 131 once the comiector assembly is in position. In similar

fashion, a comiector assembly 126c is disposed within the upper portion of the

column segment 27a. Comiector assembly 126c is similar in construction to as¬

semblies 126a and 126b. However, the securing nut 1.32 has been replaced with an internally tiireaded coupling nut 132a wliich allows for further extension of tlie

support columns as may be necessary.

Also forming a part of the connector means of die invention is a uniquely

configured stiffener member 138 which is telescopically received within the up¬

per portion of support column 27 and within tiie lower portion of support column

27a. The configuration of this stiffener member, which is of the character shown

in figure 7, provides a substantial reinforcement against and tendency column

segment 27a may have to bend relative to column segment 27. As best seen in

right-hand portion of figure 11, connector assemblies 126b and 126c are inter¬

connected by an elongated, externally threaded tie rod 140 which extends interi¬

orly of stiffener member 138. Where desired, a castor 122 can be comiected to

connector assembly 126a in the mamier shown in die lower left-hand portion of

figure 11.' To close the open upper ends of support columns, plastic closure caps

142 such as are shown in figures 1 and 11 are used.

Turning once again to figure 5, it is to be noted radially outwardly extend¬

ing grooves 67 formed in each of the vertical support columns 27 and 27a is

closed by a closure shroud 144 which is of the unique configuration shown in

figure 6. Each of the shrouds 144 is provided with a longitudinally extending,

generally arrow-shaped protuberance 144a which is receivable within a similarly O 01/091609

shaped cavity 146 formed at each corner of die support columns 27 and 27a (fig¬

ure 5). Each shroud 144 also has a yieldably deformable curved wall portion

144b which functions to close each of the radially extend ig grooves 67 in tlie

manner best seen in figure 5. With this novel construction, cantilever supports,

such as supports 150 (figures 5 and 8), can be inserted into a selected radially

extending groove 67 by deforming the shroud member 144 in the manner shown

in tlie lower right-hand portion of figure 5.

Turning to figures 13 through 24 another embodiment of the invention is

there shown. This latest embodiment is similar in many respects to that shown in

figures 1 tlirough 12 and like numbers are used in figures 13 through 24 to iden¬

tify like components. The principal difference between this latest form of tlie in¬

vention and that previously described resides in the provision of a highly novel

wire management system for managing electrical, communication and telephone

wires used to interconnect telephones and various electrically powered devices

disposed on the work surfaces of the desk system with remotely located tele¬

phone and power outlets.

The embodiment of the invention illustrated in figures 13 tlirough 17 is

similar to the embodiment shown in figure 1. More specifically, tlie portion of

the system shown in figure 13 is quite similar to the portion of the desk system

illustrated in the lower right-hand portion of figure 1 wherein the front most leg

IS assembly is identified by the numeral 22, tlie stabilizer members are designated

by the numerals 24 and the important central support is designated by tlie nu¬

meral 27.

As shown in the earlier described form of the invention, each of tlie sup¬

ports 27 are uniquely configured to support wing-like side members 30 (figure

12) and also fiinctioh to support structural panels 32 and wire management panels

33 (figure 8). The wire management panel assemblies of this alternate form of

the mvention are similar to panel 32 and are interconnected with support columns

27 by means of end connectors 80 that are of the same character as ti ose de¬

scribed in connection with the embodiments of the invention shown in figures 1

through 12. More particularly, each of the novel end plates or connectors 80 of

tiie invention is provided with a pair of spaced-apart tongues 80a which are

slidably receivable within grooves 60 formed in die side walls 48 and 50 of the

support columns 27 (figure 4). As before, locking means are provided for lock¬

ing end comiectors 80 in a fixed, vertical position relative to the structural sup¬

ports 27. Once again, these locking means comprise a spring loaded locking

mechanism 100 which includes a supporting bracket 102 and a spring biased

locking finger 104 carried by bracket 102 (figures 4 and 14). Locking finger 104

is continuously biased outwardly tlirough a slot formed in the connector body by

biasing means provided in the form of a coil spring 106 (figures 4 and 16). Ac- cordingly, when tl e end plates 80 are assembled with a selected support column

such as tlie column identified hi figure 14 by the numeral 27d, locking finger 104

will snap into engagement with one of a plurality of slit like openings formed in

one of the walls of the vertical support columns 27.

As shown in figure 13, spaced apart from support column 27d is a second

support column 27e to which side wings 30e are connected. Still another support

column 27 f is spaced apart from column 27e in die manner shown in figure 17.

Connected to each of the columns 27d, 27e, and 27f is one or more coimectors 80

which are of the character described in the preceding paragraph. Connected to

and spanning tl e connectors 80 that are affixed to columns 27d and 27e is a wire

management panel assembly 153 that is similar to the previously identified panel

33. Coimected to and spanning columns 27e and 27f is a wire management panel

assembly 153a that is substantially identical to assembly 153.

Foraiiug a part of each of the wire management panel assemblies 153 and

153a are upper and lower mounting means, here provided as elongated mounting

members 154. In a manner presently to be described, mounting members 154

fimction to support outlet box mounting clips 156, uniquely configured wire

management support arms 158 and enclosure panels 160 which fimction to safely

enclose the support arms, the outlet boxes and the electrical and communication

cables. As best seen in figures 18 and 22, each of the identical mounting mem- bers 154 includes a central channel 154a the margins of which are defined by up¬

standing, angularly inwardly extending ribs 154b. Mounting clips 156 are dis¬

posed within channel 154a and, in the case of the lower mounting members, sup¬

port arms 158 are snapped into position between ribs 154b in the manner shown

in figures 14 and 22. The margins 154c of lower member 154 are uniquely

formed in the manner shown in figures 18 and 22 to provide edge connectors to

which the inboard, generally "C" shaped margins 160a of the generally "U"

shaped enclosure panels 160 can be hingeably connected. With this novel con¬

struction, panels 160 can be moved between the first closed position shown in

figures 13 and 21 A and the open position shown in figures 21B and 22.

As shown in figure 22, each of the mounting members 154 is provided

proximate each end with spaced-apart screw receiving openings 154o. Openings

154o are sized to receive comiector means such as the previously described

thread forming screws 89 (figure 10). These screws extend through openings 91

formed in each of the end plates 80 and are received witliin openings 154o so that

tlie mounting members can be securely connected to end plates 80.

As also shown in figure 22, the lower extremities of support arms 158 in¬

clude resiliently deformable edge portions 158a which can be snapped into posi¬

tion between ribs 154b at desired locations along the length of the lower mount¬

ing members 154. To enable the easy assembly of support arms 158 to mouiitmg member 154, the support arms are preferably formed from a yieldably deform¬

able plastic material. Similarly, "U" shaped closure panels 160 are also formed

of a yieldably deformable plastic material so that the "C" shaped margins 160a

thereof can be snapped over connector margins 154c of mounting member 154

for hingeable interconnection thereto.

As indicated in figures 14, 18 and 19, mounting clips 156 are connected to

both the upper and lower mounting members 154 at desired locations by means

of suitable connectors 163. Each clip 156 includes a pair of connector arms 165

to wliich an appropriate outlet box or block such as a coinmunications outlet box

167 or a power outlet block 170 can be connected in the manner shown in the

drawings.

Boxes 167 are adapted to support data and communication terminals, such

as telephone jacks, while blocks 170 are adapted to support grounded duplex

outlets 172 of conventional construction. Blocks 170 are also adapted to be oper-

ably interconnected with power cables 174 wliich, in turn, are interconnected

with remote sources of electrical power in a mamier well understood by those

skilled in the art.

With the wire management panel assembly in position witliin the desk

system in the manner illustrated in figures 14 through 17, a power cable such as

power cable 174 can be interconnected at one end with a power source such as a floor mounted power outlet 180 (figure 15). The power cable is then passed up¬

wardly tlirough one of die wing-like side members 30 in die manner shown by

die dotted lines h figure 15 and is then interconnected at its opposite end with an

outlet block 170. hi a manner well understood to those skilled in the art, the

power circuit can be continued through the outlet blocks 170 and on to the adja¬

cent wire management panel assembly 153 a (figure 17) via a power cable such as

die cable 174a shown in figure 15. As previously mentioned, wire management

support assembly 153 a spans support columns 27e and 27f and is of a similar

construction to panel assembly 153.

Data and communications cables 186 wliich are encased within a protec¬

tive sheath 186a can be interconnected at one end with a data and communica¬

tions source such as d e floor mounted source 188 depicted i figures 13 and 15

and then passed upwardly within a wing-like member 30 so that tiieir opposite

ends can be intercomiected with data and communications outlet boxes, such as

outlet box 167 (figures 15 and 16).

As illustrated in figures 15 and 16, each of die uniquely configured wire

management support arms 158 of the invention is provided with a plurality of

spaced-apart cable receiving loops 158a wliich support data and communications

cables in a manner illustrated in figures 15 and 16. As best seen in figure 15,

these cable support loops 158a can also be used to provide storage for coils 186b of fiber optic or copper conduits 186 in lengths of at least one meter. Addition¬

ally, loops 158a can be used to support and correctly position communication ca¬

bles 189 extending downwardly from die work surfaces of the desk system so

that they can be connected to communication outlet boxes such as outlet box 1 7

(figure 16 and 17), or alternatively, can be used to support longitudinally ex¬

tending cables, such as cables 186c wliich continue on to wire management panel

153a of the next adjacent wire management panel assembly. Coimnunication

lines corning from the desk top are conveniently entrained through box-like

structures 193 which comprise a part of the wire management panels 153 and

153 a (figures 16 and 1 ). As illustrated in the drawings, the uniquely configured

cable management support arms function to maintain proper spacing of the vari¬

ous wires and cables so as to prevent them from becoming tangled or damaged.

Once the cables and conduits are in place, enclosure panels 160 hide them from

view and protects them from damage.

As shown in figures 17 and 24, additional wire management panel assem¬

blies can be intercom ected with assembly 153a. For example, assembly 153b

can extend between column 27f (figure 17) and column 27g (figure 24). Simi¬

larly a panel assembly 153c can also be connected to another face of colmnn 27g

and extend substantially perpendicularly thereto in the mamier shown in figure

24. In this instance mitered corner boxes 193a are provided to guide conduits extending downwardly from the work surfaces of tlie system to the panel assem¬

blies 153b and 153c. Panel assemblies 153b and 153c are somewhat similar in

construction to panel assembly 153 and support duplex outlets 172 in the manner

shown in figure 24.

Turning next to figures 25 through 33 another important feature of the desk

system of the present invention is there illustrated. This feature comprises means

for permitting tlie extension of electrical and communication wires from the wire

management system through the work surface to desk-mounted devices such as

telephones, fax machines, computers and the like. In the form of the invention

shown in the drawings, this important means comprises a grommet assembly 200

wliich is receivable within an opening 202 formed in a work surface or desk top

14 (figure 28). The grommet assembly here comprises a downwardly extending

skirt portion 204 and a top trim flange 206 that circumscribes skirt portion 204.

Affixed within opening 202 of the work surface is a liner or sleeve-like member

208 wliich, as shown in figure 32, extends below die bottom surface of the desk

top or work surface 14. A generally wing shaped cover 210 is liingeably con¬

nected to skirt portion 204 and is movable from die open position shown in figure

25 to die closed position shown in figure 28. As indicated in figure 28, when

cover 210 is in the closed position, openings are provided on either side of the

hinge assembly 212 to accommodate the passage of wires from the wire man- O 01/091609

agement system upwardly through die opening in the work surface. These wires

are generally designated in figure 28 by tl e numeral 214. Binge assembly 212

comprises an axle 216 which extends between two ear-like protuberances 218

that are formed on skirt 204. Cover 210 is provided with a pair of outwardly ex¬

tending leg-like members 210a which teπninate in a hook-like portion 210b

which are receivable over axle 216 in die manner best seen in figure 25.

An important feature of the grommet assembly of tl e invention resides in

the provision of a pair of resiliently deformable cover support pads 220 that are

provided on the front face of skirt portion 204. As the grommet assembly is in¬

serted into the opening defined by liner member 208, a downward force exerted

on the grommet assembly in die direction of the arrow 223 of figure 29 will cause

each of the support pads 220 to move from the position shown in figure 26 into

die inwardly deformed position shown in figure 33. In this position, it is to he

noted that the upper extremity 220a of each of the support pads 220 has moved

into a support position shown in figure 33 wherein the lip of 210b formed on

cover 210 is supported by extremity 220a so that the top of die cover member

210 is flush with the top of the trim-out flange 206. As best seen by referring to

figures 29 and 33, each of die support pads 220 is provided with a ramp portion

220b which engages the inner wall of liner 208 in a manner to urge each of the

support pads inwardly into the position shown in figure 33 as the grommet as- sembly is pushed into position within the opening defined in the work surface.

As shown by tlie phantom lines in figure 33, each time the cover 210 is moved

into its closed position, pad 220 will firmly support the cover in the position

shown in figure 33 and will not allow it to extend into tiie opening defined by the

inner surface of skirt portion 204.

Another important feature of the grommet assembly of the present inven¬

tion is die provision of a pair of spaced-apart locking means wliich are connected

to skirt portion 204 and function to lock the grommet assembly within an opening

provided in the work surface. In the present form of the invention, this novel

locking means comprises a pair of transversely, spaced-apart, deformable locking

tabs 226 that include a hook-like extremity 226a that extends below the lower

surface of skirt 204 in the manner best seen in figure 26. Each of the locldng tabs

226 is provided is an angled surface 226b that slidably engages the inner wall of

liner 208 as tlie grommet assembly is inserted into position within the opening

provided in the work surface (see figure 30). A continued downward movement

of the grommet assembly in the direction of die arrow 227 of figure 30 will cause

the locking tabs 226 to deform inwardly and ride along die inner wall of liner

208. When the grommet assembly is fully inserted into the opening in the work

surface as shown in figure 31, resiliently deformable locking tabs 226 will spring

outwardly into their locking position shown in figure 32 wherein hook-like ends 226 a of each of tlie locking tabs will move into locking engagement with the

bottom surface of liner 208. With tlie locking tabs in this position, the grommet

assembly is securely locked against accidental removal from the opening pro¬

vided in the work surface 14. Turning to figures 34, 35 and 36, an alternate form

of grommet assembly of the invention is there shown. This grommet assembly is

similar in many respects to that shown in figures 25 through 33 and like numerals

are used in figures 34, 35, and 36 to identify like components. The principal dif¬

ference between this latest form of gro met assembly and that earlier described

resides in the fact that the downwardly extending skirt portion, here identified as

205, is somewhat shorter than skirt 204 as are die locking tabs here identified as

227.

As best seen in figure 36, this latest form of the grommet assembly is us¬

able with a somewhat tiricker work surface, which enables liner 208 to be elimi¬

nated. Accordingly, extremities 227a of locking tabs 227, rather tiian engaging

the lower margin of lines 208, lockably engage d e lower surface of the work sur¬

face at locations adjacent an opening 209 formed in the work surface.

Referring next to figures 37, 38, and 39, yet another important feature of

die desk system of tlie present invention can be seen to comprise a computer

processing unit (CPU) support assembly that is connected to a selected one of the

leg supports of the desk system shown in figure 13. This CPU support assembly which is generally designated in the drawings by the numeral 230 comprises a

connector arm assembly which connects to and extends outwardly from the leg

support assembly designated in figure 37 by tiie numeral 30e. (The connector

arm assembly here comprises a pair of spaced-apart braces 234 each of which has

an inboard end contacting wing member 30e and serving to stabilize assembly

230. Locking member 236, which is of the character shown in figures 38 and 39,

prevents dislodgment of 240 from 30e resulting from an upward vertical force.

Locking member 236 includes a body portion having spaced-apart side members

236a and 236b wliich terminate in a pair of spaced-apart locking tabs 238. Con¬

nector member 240 has an inboard end that is provided with hook-like tongues

240a that are received within slots "S" formed in wing member 30e. Locking tab

238 and tongues of connector member 240 are received within the slots "S"

formed in wing member 30e so as to position the comiector arm assembly in an

outwardly, cantilevered position shown in figure 37. Braces 234 are intercon¬

nected with a connector member 240 wliich is located between and connected to

braces 234 in the manner shown in figure 34. Comiected to the outboard end of

connector member 240 is a central processing unit support generally designated

by the numeral 242. Support 242 comprises a base 242a that is interconnected

with spaced-apart side panels 242b that are spaced apart a distance so as to

closely receive the CPU and secure it in position within the CPU support 242. Inwardly protruding side wings that are connected to sides 242b are adapted to

engage die sides of the CPU tower so as to stabilize the CPU within tiie support

assembly 242.

Referring next to figures 40 through 48, an alternate form of computer

processing unit (CPU) support assembly of tl e invention is there shown. This

alternate form of CPU support assembly, which is somewhat similar to the previ¬

ously described support assembly 230, comprises a connector arm assembly 246

which connects to and extends outwardly from the leg support assembly desig¬

nated in figure 40 by the numeral 30e. Connector arm assembly 246 here com¬

prises a pair of generally planar braces 248 and 250 each of which has an in¬

board end that is provided with hook-like tongues that are receivable within ver¬

tically spaced-apart slots 252 formed in leg support assembly 30e (figures 43, 44,

and 48). Brace 248 has downwardly facing tongues 248a while brace 250 has

upwardly extending tongues 250a. Locking tongues 248a and 250a are lockably

received witliin slots 252 formed in wing member 30e in the manner shown in

figures 43 and 44 so that tlie connector arm assembly is disposed in the outwardly

cantilevered position shown in figure 40. Braces 248 and 250 are each provided

with a multiplicity of apertures 253 and are intercoimected together by connector

pins 255. Connected to braces 248 and 250 is an alternate form of computer proc¬

essing unit support assembly generally designated by the numeral 260. Support

assembly 260 comprises a pair of generally "L" shaped components 264 and 266

that are shdably interconnected by conventional threaded connectors 263 (figures

40 and 48). Each of the components 264 and 266 include a slotted base member

268 and a generally vertically extending side member 270. With this construc¬

tion, side members 270 can be adjustably spaced apart a distance so as to closely

receive the CPU and secure it in position between the side members (see figure

47). Inwardly protruding side wings 270a that are connected to sides 270 are

adapted to engage the sides of the CPU tower so as to stabilize the CPU within

d e support assembly. As indicated in the drawings side members 270 are pro¬

vided with a multiplicity of apertures 270b. Apertures 270b of side member 270

of "L" shaped component 264 can be indexably aligned to receive comiector

members 255a that function to interconnect component 264 with connector arm

assembly 246.

Turning next to figures 49 through 53, alternate foπns of the outlet boxes

and mounting means for mounting die boxes are there illustrated. As in the ear¬

lier described embodiments shown in figure 18, 19 and 20, each of the mounting

members 154 has a central channel 154a. Also, as previously described herein, in

additional to the mounting channels, elongated mounting members 154 also function to support enclosure panels 160 which function to safely enclose the

support arms, the outlet boxes and the electrical cominunication cables.

Central channel 154a of the mounting members 154 is defined by up¬

standing, angularly inwardly extending ribs 154b. The mounting clips 274 of this

latest form of the invention are generally U-shaped in configuration and include

including resilientiy deformable sides 274a and 274b each of which terminates in

a foot 274c that is secured within channel 154a in the manner shown in figures 49

and 49A. Side 274a is provided with a threaded aperture 275 that threadably re¬

ceives a bolt 278 having a slotted head 278a and an end 278b that engages side

278b. With this novel construction, feet 274c of clip 274 can be inserted into .

channel 154a and can be moved into the locked position shown in figure 49A by

rotation of bolt 278 in a tightening direction.

Each of the generally U-shaped mounting members 274 also includes a

bight portion 274d that is apertured to receive coimectors 279 that function to in¬

terconnect the outlet boxes 280 with clips 274 in tlie manner shown in figures 49,

49A and 50. Outlet box 280 and clip 274 can, of course, be removed from mem¬

bers 154 by rotating bolt 278 in a loosening direction.

Referring particularly to figures 51, 52 and 53, one of the duplex type out¬

let boxes 284 of die invention for mounting a duplex outlet 285 is tiiere shown.

Also shown in novel mounting means for mounting boxes 284 to a member 154 so that the box depends downwardly from the support member. As best seen in

figures 51 and 53, central channel 154a is defined by downwardly extending, an¬

gularly inwardly protruding ribs 154b. The mounting means of this latest form of

the invention includes mounting clips 286 which have upper portions 286a that

are disposed within channels 154d in die manner shown in figures 51 and 53.

Each mounting clip 286 also has a pair of connector arms 286b (figure 52) that

are slidably receivable beneath brackets 287 that are suitably affixed to each box

284. Extending downwardly from portion 286a of each box is a protruding ,

loop-like member 286c that is receivable witliin a locking groove 290a formed in

a novel resilientiy deformable connector component 290. Component 290 in¬

cludes resilientiy deformable sides 290b and 290c. Side 290b terminates in a foot

291 tiiat is receivable within a slot 293 formed in side 290c (figure 53). When

interconnecting box 284 with mounting clip 286, as feet 286b slide under brack¬

ets 287, protuberance 286c will urge sides 290b and 290c downwardly hi the di¬

rection of the arrow 295 of figure 53 causing foot 291 to slide into slot 293

diereby lowermg sides 290b and 290c sufficiently to enable protuberance 286b to

snap in the locking groove 290a.

Havmg now described the invention in detail in accordance with the re¬

quirements of the patent statutes, those skilled in this art will have no difficulty in

malting changes and modifications in the individual parts of their relative assem- bly in order to meet specific requirements or conditions. Such changes and modi¬

fications may be made without departing from d e scope and spirit of the inven¬

tion, as set forth in the following claims.

Claims

WE CLAIM

1. A desk system comprising:

(a) a pair of spaced-apart support columns, each having a central

axis, first and second opposmg side walls, a front wall connected to said

first and second side walls and a back wall connected to said first and sec¬

ond side walls, each of said walls mcluding:

(i) a central portion;

(it) first and second spaced-apart marginal portions; and

(iii) first and second grooves disposed between said central

portion and said marginal portions;

(b) a wire management panel assembly connected to and extend¬

ing between said pair of supports, said panel assembly comprising:

(i) an elongated mounting member having a central chan¬

nel and at least one edge connector;

(ϊi) an enclosure panel liingeably connected to said edge

comiector for movement between a first closed position and a sec¬

ond open position; and

(iii) at least one wire management support arm removably

connected to said elongated mounting member.

2. A desk system as defined in claim 1 in which said elongated

moimting member has a pair of spaced-apart edge connectors and in which said

wire management panel includes a pair of enclosure panels liingedly connected to

said edge connectors of said mounting member.

3. A desk system as defined in claim 1 in which said central channel of

said elongated mounting member includes a pair of upstanding, angularly in¬

wardly extending ribs and in which said wire management support arm includes

resilientiy deformable edge portions receivable between said angularly inwardly

extending ribs.

4. A desk system as defined in claim 1 in which said wire management

support arm includes a plurality of wire receiving loops for supporting longitudi¬

nally extending wires.

5. ■ A desk system as defined in claim 1 in which said enclosure panel is

generally "U" shaped in cross section and includes first and second edge por¬

tions, one of said edge portions being generally "C" shaped in cross section for

receiving said edge connector of said elongated mounting member.

6. A desk system as defined in claim 1 in which said wire management

panel assembly further includes a pair of end connectors connected to said sup¬

port columns, each said end comiector having a pair of spaced-apart tongues 01/091609

slidably receivable within said first and second grooves of said walls of said sup¬

port columns.

7. A desk system as defined in claim 6 in which said wire management

panel assembly comprises a second elongated mounting member connected to

and spanning said end connectors.

8. A desk system comprising:

(a) a pair of spaced-apart support columns, each having a central

axis, first and second opposing side walls, a front wall connected to said

first and second side walls and a back wall connected to said first and sec¬

ond side walls, each of said walls including:

(i) a central portion;

(h) first and second spaced-apart marginal portions; and

(iii) first and second grooves disposed between said central

portion and said marginal portions;

(b) a wire management panel assembly connected to and extend¬

ing between said pair of supports, said panel assembly comprising:

(i) first and second elongated mounting members each

having a central channel and a pair of spaced-apart edge coimectors; (iϊ) first and second enclosure panels liingeably connected

to said edge connectors for movement between a first closed posi¬

tion and a second open position;

iiϊ) a plurality of wire management support anus remova¬

bly connected to one of said elongated mounting members; and

- (iv) a plurality of mounting clips for mounting outlet boxes

connected to said elongated mounting members.

9. A desk system as defined in claim 8 in which said wire management

panel assembly further includes a pair of end connectors connected to said sup¬

port columns, each said end connector having a pair of spaced-apart tongues

slidably receivable within said first and second grooves of said walls of said sup¬

port coliunns.

10. ' A desk system as defined in claim 9 in which said central channel of

each of said first and second elongated mounting member includes a pair of up¬

standing, angularly inwardly extending ribs and in wliich each said wire man¬

agement support arm includes resilientiy defoπnable edge portions receivable

between said angularly inwardly extending ribs.

11. A desk system as defined in claim 10 in which each said wire man¬

agement support arm includes a plurality of wire receiving loops for supporting

longitudinally extending wires. O 01/091609

12. A desk system as defined in claim 1 in wliich said enclosure panel

is generally "U" shaped in cross section and includes first and second edge por¬

tions, one of said edge portions being generally "C" shaped in cross section for

receiving said edge connector of said elongated mounting member.

13. A desk system as defined in claim 10 in which said mounting clips

connected to said first elongated mounting member support communications

outlet boxes and in which said mounting clips connected to said second elongated

mounting member support electrical power outlet boxes.

14. A desk system comprising:

(a) a work surface having an opening therein and;

(b) a groinrnet assembly received witliin said operhng, said

grommet assembly comprising;

(i) a skirt portion;

ϊ) a top flange circumscribing said skirt portion;

(iii) a cover liingedly connected to said skirt portion; and

(iv) a resilientiy deformable cover support tab connected to

said skirt portion for movement between a retracted position and an

extended position as said grommet assembly is received within said

opening. O 01/091609

15. The desk system as defined in claim 14 further including locking

means connected to said skirt portion for locking said grommet assembly to said

desk top.

16. The desk system as defined in claim 15 in which said locking means

comprises a resilientiy deformable locking tab connected to said skirt portion for

movement between a first position and a second position as said grommet assem¬

bly is received within said opening.

17. A desk system comprising:

(a) a work surface having a top surface, a bottom surface and an

opening extending between said top and bottom surfaces; and

(b) a grommet assembly received within said opening for guiding

tl e passageway of conduits from said top surface to a location below said

bottom surface, said grommet assembly comprising;

(i) a skirt portion having a side wall receivable witliin said

opening and a top flange, said side wall including spaced-apart,

resilientiy defoπnable locking tabs and spaced apart, resilientiy de¬

formable support tabs; and

(ii) a cover hingeably coimected to said sleeve for move¬

ment between a first open position and a second closed position, said O 01/091609

cover being supported by said support tabs when said cover is in

said second closed position.

18. The desk system as defined in claim 17 further including a liner

member received within said opening in said desk top for engagement by said

locking tabs when said grommet assembly is in position within said opening.

19. The^" desk system as defined in claim 18 in wliich said support tabs

lockably engage said liner member when said grornmet assembly is in position

witliin said opening.

20. The desk system as defined in claim 19 in wliich said opening is

generally oval shaped.

21. A desk system comprising:

(a) a leg support assembly;

^• (b) a work surface connected to said leg support; and

(c) a computer processing unit support assembly connected to

said leg support, said computer processing unit support assembly com¬

prising:

(i) a connector arm assembly connected to and extending

outwardly from said leg support assembly; and (h) a computer processing unit support comprising a base

and a pair of said panels connected to said base and extending tiiere-

from for engagement with the computer processing unit.

22. The desk system as defined in claim 21 in which said connector arm

assembly comprises;

(a) ^" a pair of vertically spaced apart braces; and

(b) a connector member disposed intermediate said braces and

connected thereto.