WO2000075448A1

WO2000075448A1 - Modular floor tiles and floor system

Info

Publication number: WO2000075448A1
Application number: PCT/US2000/015474
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephen Peart; Ross N. Lovegrove; Robert W. Insalaco; Donald Karaus
Original assignee: Herman Miller Inc
Current assignee: MillerKnoll Inc
Priority date: 1999-06-06
Filing date: 2000-06-06
Publication date: 2000-12-14
Anticipated expiration: 2001-12-06
Also published as: WO2000075448A8; CA2339652A1; AU5464600A

Abstract

A modular tile and modular tile system (20). The modular tile (20) includes a base structure (22) having a generally horizontal portion. Floor support members (26) are positioned on a bottom surface of the generally horizontal portion. Integral upper column members (26) extend above the horizontal portion of the modular tile. A cover (24) is supported by the upper column members (26) a distance above the horizontal portion thereby creating a chamber between the horizontal portion and the cover (24). The chamber is adapted to receive cabling (34) therein.

Description

MODULAR FLOOR TILES AND FLOOR SYSTEM

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to a modular tile and modular tile system. More specifically, it relates to a modular tile and modular tile system installed on an existing floor.

Work environments are becoming increasingly sophisticated due to an increasing need for utilities necessary to service the environment including power, data and communications networks. Often, these environments must distribute power to tools such as computers, printers and the like. In addition, many environments must distribute data and communications cabling to support interoffice electronic mail, world-wide internet connectivity, and in-house intranet connectivity. An important consequence of this increased sophistication in work environments is the increased need for distributing and managing cabling in an efficient, safe and aesthetically appealing manner. Another demand often placed on modern work environments is the need to be easily configured and reconfigured to keep in stride with the fluctuating demands and influences in the work place.

One solution to providing increased volumes of power and data cabling throughout an office environment is to create a raised floor, namely a floor built a distance above the existing floor to thereby provide a space for cabling between the two. Some raised floors are architectural, i.e. are installed when the building is built, and include a series of relatively large panels, some of which can be lifted to gain access to the space. Other raised floor systems are installed later and comprise a gridwork of supports and panels or tiles which are installed over this gridwork. An example of such a pieced-together system is shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,593,499 to Kobayashi et al.

Typically, both types of raised floors, namely the architectural and the pieced-together, are installed by skilled tradespersons having special tools, equipment and training. Naturally, providing adequate support and proper leveling are important concerns. As a consequence, the installation and/or reconfiguration of the conventional raised floor is often costly. Moreover, work environment elements can not be easily configured and reconfigured with the typical raised floor. Also, because raised floors are most often installed in a wall-to-wall configuration, a facilities planner must commit to equipping the entire work space with a raised floor, rather than equipping only that portion with the requirements justifying a raised floor. This fact reduces the utility and adaptability of raised floors to certain work environments, especially those that have a need to equip some work stations one way for some of its workers and some another way for others of its workers. In particular, it would be desirable in some work environments to create platforms of a raised floor to meet the needs within that part of the work environment.

The conventional raised floor often lacks specific cabling management capabilities. For example, in some systems, the cabling is not isolated from one another nor managed separately within the floor. This can create interference and noise problems between power, communication, and data cabling.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Briefly stated, the present invention is directed to a modular tile and modular tile system.

A modular tile and modular tile system is disclosed. The modular tile includes a base structure having a generally horizontal portion. Floor support members are positioned on a bottom surface of the generally horizontal portion. Integral upper column members extends above the horizontal portion of the modular tile. A cover is supported by the upper column members a distance above the horizontal portion thereby creating a chamber between the horizontal portion and the cover. The chamber is adapted to receive cabling therein. The preferred present invention is modular in that it is configurable and can be quickly connected and re-connected.

The modular tile platform environment can provide related economic benefits. For example, in certain types of lease situations, the modular tiles can provide a tenant improvement and therefore specific leasehold advantages. The tiles can also be quickly reconfigured for a new tenant. Moreover, such a tile scheme is usually easily transported by the tenant for rapid deployment in the next installation. With its on-site capacity and ability to support the frequent transitions associated with temporary or visiting work environments, the modular environment can enhance the benefits of rental and lease opportunities.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a partially exploded floor constructed according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 2 is an exploded view of a tile assembly in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the present invention as illustrated in FIG. 1 ;

FIG. 3A-B are exploded views of a utility member embodiment and floor tile assembly;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the utility member shown in FIGS. 3A-B; FIG. 5 is a cross-section of the base of the utility member shown in

FIGS. 3A-B;

FIG. 6 A-B are an exploded view of another utility member embodiment and floor tile assembly;

FIG. 7 is a cross-section of the utility member shown in FIGS. 6A-B; FIG. 8 is an exploded view of the power/voice/data junction box;

FIG. 9 is a partially exploded view of another utility member having a support column with an adjustable shelf and power/voice/data capabilities; and

FIG. 10 is a partially exploded view of a data storage cabinet. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a floor 10 having a plurality of modular tile assembly 20 incorporating a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The present invention is useful on many types of base surfaces including concrete floors and carpeted floors. The present invention may also be implemented without the need for an adhesive material to secure the assembly to the base surface. In addition, the present invention may be implemented with carpet tiles sized to match each tile assembly or broadloom carpet sized to cover significantly larger areas.

Referring to FIGS. 1-2, a modular tile assembly 20 illustrating a preferred embodiment is shown. FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the modular tile assembly 20 including a base member or foundation tile 22 and a cover tile 24. The foundation tile 22 includes a plurality of cover support members 26 located on opposing corners of the foundation tile 22. The cover support members 26 function to support the cover tile 24. Returning to FIG. 1 , a preferred embodiment of a power supply distribution box 30 is also illustrated. The power supply distribution box 30 is connected to the buildings power supply via connector 32 and distributes power to the floor 10 Electrical harnesses 34 distribute power within the floor 10. Harnesses 34 are conventional elements available from Pent Assemblies, Inc. of Kendallville, Ind.

The electrical harnesses 34 can be connected to various utility members. For example, the utility member or power pole 40 is connected to an electrical harness 34. The power pole 40 provides a user with access to power at a fixed height. Another utility member or telescoping power pole 44 is also connected to an electrical harness 34. The telescoping power pole 44 provides a user with height adjustable power access. An electrical harness 34 is also connected to a power/voice/data access tile 50. The harness 34 is connected to the receptacles 60 to provide access to power beneath the cover tile 62. Voice/data cables 64 are connected to the tile 50 for voice/data distribution via the receptacles 66. The cover tile 62 includes pivotable edge 66 for wire access to the receptacles 60 and 66. Edge skirting 68 is attached to the cover tiles 24 to provides a protective barrier for the interior of the floor 10. For example, the edge skirting prevents a user from placing their feet into the area of the foundation tile 22.

A single modular tile assembly 20 is best illustrated in FIG. 2. The cover tile 24 is preferably manufactured from a steel material. The cover tile 24 is constructed from two pieces in essentially the same manner as that disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 60/087,582 filed on June 1 , 1998, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. A cover tile 24 includes an upper member 70 and a seal 72. The upper member 70 includes a plurality of first cover apertures 80 located at corners thereon. The first cover apertures 80 extend coaxially with the foundation tile first apertures 82. A connector such a screw can be used to secure the cover tile 24 to the foundation tile 22. A plurality of second cover apertures 84 are also located on the corners of the cover tile 24 adjacent the first apertures 80. The second cover apertures 84 extend coaxially with the connector apertures 86 of the tile connector 88 and the second foundation tile apertures 90. The second cover apertures 84 together with the connector apertures 86 and the second foundation tile apertures 90 provide a passageway for use by a connector such a screw. This passageway provides for the securement of the cover tile 24 with the connector 88 and the foundation tile 22. In the alternative, the screw 92 can be used to secure only the connector 88 to the foundation tile 22 such that cover tile 24 can be freely removed. The connector 88 includes pegs 94 which are sized to fit within the third set of foundation tile apertures 96 located on the corners thereon. The connectors 88 can come in variety of configurations such as the connector 88 (FIG. 2) used to connect four adjacent tile assemblies 20 or the connector 98 (FIG. 1) used to connect two adjacent tile assemblies 20. An arrangement of nine apertures 100 are provided for use with a probe that supports furniture elements as described in PCT Application Serial No. US 97/22633 filed on December 3, 1997, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. Corresponding probe apertures 102 are located within the foundation tile 22. The probe is supported by the foundation tile 22 and thereby support an associated furniture element. Alternatively, freestanding furniture may be implemented with the floor 10. In the preferred embodiment, the probe apertures 102 are cross-shaped to mate with a correspondingly shaped probe. Side holes 108 receive stand-offs projecting from the bottom of the seal 72. This feature is useful during the shipping of the covers 24 when a plurality of covers are stacked one on top of another. In this manner, the covers tiles 24 nest with one another. Puchouts 110 provide optional access for a utility cord such as a data cord. The assembler can remove any of the punchouts 110 to provide the cord with access to the exterior of the modular tile assembly 10.

The seal 72 includes apertures generally corresponding with the apertures of the upper portion 70. Tree shaped connectors 112 extend upward from the seal 72 to mate with the apertures 114 of the upper portion 70. In this manner the seal 72 is secured to the upper portion 70. The seal 72 is preferably manufactured from a plastic material such as polypropylene. The seal 72 , or the finger 115 thereon, can be formed from materials of various colors to provide a user with a visual identification of a particular area beneath the cover tile 24 such as junction box 50. The seal 72 also provide a sound adsorption capability such that the modular tile assembly 20 provides a quieter area as a user walks thereon. More specifically, metal to metal contact of the upper portion 70 of the cover tile 24 with the foundation tile 22 is avoided. The finger 115 also prevents dirt, moisture or other elements from passing from above the cover tile 24 to the area of the foundation tile 22. In particular, adjacent fingers 115 overlap to provide a barrier to the interior of the modular tile assembly 20. The foundation tile 22 is also illustrated in FIG. 2. The foundation tile 22 is preferably manufactured from a single sheet of material such as 042 cold rolled steel using a progressive die. The sheet of material is folded during the stamping operation. The sheet material is folded so that it does not stretch out. The rectangular apertures 120 are punched out during the manufacturing process. The rectangular apertures 120 reduce the material requirements and weight of the foundation tile 22 while reducing the bottom surface area. By reducing the bottom surface area, the foundation tile 22 is more readily usable with a carpeted base surface because the foundation tile 22 sits flatter. Also, the configuration of the foundation tile 22 provides for a somewhat flexible element having the required strength. This is particularly useful with non-level base surfaces.

Notches 122 are useful during the construction of the modular tile assembly 10 because they provide the installer with a reference for the proper alignment of adjacent modular tiles 20. Cover support members 26 are located on the corners of foundation tile 22. The cover support members 26 have a generally rectangular shape with a hollow interior. Secondary support members 132 are spaced in between the cover support members 26.

With reference to FIGS. 1 , and 3-5, an electrical harness 34 is shown attached to a fixed height power stick 40. The electrical harness 34 is attached to a receptacle 140. The receptacle 140 is attached to the die cast box 142 having a lower portion 143 and an upper portion 144. The box 142 is attached to a cover tile 150 designed for use with the power stick 40. The box 142 is attached to cover tile 150 beneath the circular opening 152. The upper portion 144 of the box 142 includes a threaded interior portion 156 that mates with a correspondingly threaded cover 158. A user has the option of removing the cover 158 and connecting a standard electrical plug to the receptacles 140. In the alternative, the power stick 40 can be attached to receptacles 140. The power stick 40 includes a plug 160 that extends from the base 162. Indexing members 166 mate with apertures 168 in the upper portion 144 of the box 142. The indexing members 146 prevent the power stick 40 from being used with an ordinary power receptacle. A spring loaded connector 170 having a threaded portion that mates with the aperture 172 in the upper portion 144 of the box 142 is also shown. The spring loaded connector 170 projects upward when not connected to the cover tile 150 to thereby visually indicate that the power stick 40 is not secured to the cover tile 150. The power stick 40 is constructed using a die cast aluminum base 162 and head portion 178 interconnected by a steel body portion 161. The notch 180 mates with the keyway 182 such that the power stick 40 can only be attached to receptacles 140 in a single(proper) direction.

FIGS. 6-7 illustrate an adjustable utility member 44 connected to a electrical harness 34. The electrical harness 34 is connected to the receptacles 200 in the head portion 202. The base portion 206 is connected to the cover tile 210 using screws 212 to impart stability to the utility member 44. The cover tile 210 includes an opening 214 that is sized to mate the base portion 206 of the utility member 44. With particular reference to FIG. 7, the clip 220 includes a compression ring such that the upper tube 226 can slide upwardly or downwardly with respect to the lower tube 228. The upper tube 226 has a threaded ring and has a larger diameter than the lower tube 228. The grip portion 230 is threaded to mate with threads on the upper tube 226 such that by tightening the grip portion 230, the compression ring grabs the lower tube 228 to thereby secure the head portion 202 at the selected height.

With reference to FIG. 6, notch 240 and clip 242 provide for the passage of data cables to an area above the cover tile 210. The head 202 is preferably injection molded using ABS plastic and the base 206 is preferably manufactured using die cast aluminum. The upper and lower tubes 226 and 228 are preferably manufactured from steel. Turing to FIG. 8, a power/ voice/data access tile 50 is illustrated. The junction box 50 includes a frame 302 sized to mate with the foundation tile 22. A power harness 34 is attached to power receptacles 310. A power enclosure 312 secures the receptacles to the frame 302. Data receptacles 320 can also be attached to frame 302. The frame 302 can be dropped into the foundation tile 22 as needed to provide a user with access to power/voice/data cables at the selected location. The cover 62 includes pivotable edges 66 having notches 322 such that power/voice/data cords can to an area outside the access tile 50. Another utility member or pole 400 is shown in FIG. 9. The pole 400 provides power to a user adjacent an adjustable shelf. The pole 400 includes a central support column 410 preferably formed from extruded aluminum. A strip 412 includes a plurality of aligned slotted apertures 414. Shelf 420 includes a standard bracket having hooks adapted to mate with the slotted apertures 414. A spring loaded pin 422 mates with apertures 424 within the strip 412 to prevent dislodgment of the shelf 420. A pivotable door 430 covers the utility cables and receptacles such as the power receptacles 436. The power receptacles 436 can be attached to the pole 400 using the screw 438. A power cord may gain access to the receptacles via the notches 440. The pole 400 rotates via a central threaded rod with a thrust bearing at the top and bottom portions. The base cover 450 is preferably manufactured from plastic.

A data cabinet 500 is illustrated in FIG. 10. The data cabinet 50 is adapted to be attached to a foundation tile 22. The base 502 includes a plurality of cut out portions that provide access for date cables. An edge member 504 is preferably manufactured from a wood material such that it can be cut out to conform with the cut out portions of the base 502. Two pivotable doors 508 and side panels 510 are connected to the bottom frame 514 and the top panel 516. A standard data rack 520 provides for the attachment of data receptacles, cables and other data utility members. From the data cabinet 500, data can be distributed within the work area.

Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As such, it is intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting and that it is the appended claims including all equivalents thereof, which are intended to define the scope of the invention.

Claims

WE CLAIM:

1. A modular tile for installation on top of an existing floor, the modular tile comprising: a base structure having cover support members extending upward from a bottom surface of the base structure, the base structure and the cover support members being integrally formed, a cover supported by the upper column members a distance above the base structure thereby creating a chamber between the horizontal portion and the cover, the chamber adapted to receive cabling therein.

2. The invention of claim 1 wherein the cover comprises a floor covering material.

3. The invention of claim 2 wherein the floor covering material is carpet.

4. The invention of claim 1 wherein the base structure further comprises four connecting points such that a plurality of the base structures placed on top of the existing floor and arranged so that a corner of each adjacent base structure meet at a common point can be releasably affixed to one another by way of a modular tile connect.

5. The invention of claim 4 wherein the four connecting points are located at the four corners of the base structure.

6. The invention of claim 5 wherein the cover support members have a generally rectangular shape.

7. The invention of claim 6 wherein the base structure includes a plurality of apertures located adjacent a base surface.

8. The invention of claim 7 wherein the modular tile further comprises a nonmetallic seal positioned between the base structure and the cover.

9. The invention of claim 8 wherein the base structure and the cover have a plurality of coaxial apertures.

10. The invention of claim 9 wherein the coaxial apertures are cross-shaped.

11. The invention of claim 10 wherein the base structure is formed from a single sheet of material.

12. A system of modular tiles for installation on top of an existing floor, comprising: at least four generally rectangular modular tiles arranged so that a corner of each of the modular tiles meet at a common point, each modular tile comprising a generally rectangular base structure, the base structure having a generally horizontal portion, a connecting point at each corner, upper column members extending above the horizontal base structure portion and integrally formed with the base structure, a cover supported by the upper column members thereby creating a chamber between the horizontal portion and the cover adapted to receive cabling therein; and a modular tile connect engaging adjacent connecting points of the modular tiles to releasably connect the modular tiles.

13. The invention of claim 12 wherein the modular tile connect comprises a central member and four connecting members extending therefrom.

14. The invention of claim 13 wherein each connecting member comprises a pin and wherein each connecting point is a hole adapted to receive the pin.

15. The invention of claim 14 further comprising a seal to the cover.

16. The invention of claim 15 wherein the seal includes a cut adapted to receive a probe extending downward from the cover.

17. The invention of claim 14 further comprising a modular tile platform ramp connected to one of the modular tiles.

18. A system of modular tiles for installation on top of an existing floor and on which a work environment is configured, the work environment comprising elements selected from a group comprising panels, screens, work surfaces, storage cabinets, and lamps, the system comprising a plurality of modular tiles arranged side by side across the existing floor to thereby create a work environment platform, each modular tile comprising a bottom portion and a top portion integrally formed, the top portion including an array of apertures, the array being generally identical on each modular tile, the apertures adapted to receive a protruding portion of an indexing element associated with at least some of the work environment elements, the indexing element extending downward into an upper column attached a horizontal base portion.

19. The invention of claim 19, wherein the array of apertures on each modular tile is configured so as to provide an array on the work environment platform of equally spaced columns and rows of apertures.

20. The invention of claim 20, wherein the aperture is cross-shaped.