US20070022921A1 - Storage and work system - Google Patents
Storage and work system Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20070022921A1 US20070022921A1 US11/190,730 US19073005A US2007022921A1 US 20070022921 A1 US20070022921 A1 US 20070022921A1 US 19073005 A US19073005 A US 19073005A US 2007022921 A1 US2007022921 A1 US 2007022921A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- modules
- removable panel
- module
- removable
- panel according
- 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
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25H—WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT, e.g. FOR MARKING-OUT WORK; STORAGE MEANS FOR WORKSHOPS
- B25H3/00—Storage means or arrangements for workshops facilitating access to, or handling of, work tools or instruments
-
- 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
- A47B96/00—Details of cabinets, racks or shelf units not covered by a single one of groups A47B43/00 - A47B95/00; General details of furniture
- A47B96/18—Tops specially designed for working on
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B25—HAND TOOLS; PORTABLE POWER-DRIVEN TOOLS; MANIPULATORS
- B25H—WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT, e.g. FOR MARKING-OUT WORK; STORAGE MEANS FOR WORKSHOPS
- B25H1/00—Work benches; Portable stands or supports for positioning portable tools or work to be operated on thereby
- B25H1/12—Work benches; Portable stands or supports for positioning portable tools or work to be operated on thereby with storage compartments
Abstract
A removable panel sized to overlie and connect at least two modules each having a top. The removable panel can include a work surface comprising the top surface of the panel and a mating surface on the bottom surface of the panel. The mating surface can include at least a first portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a first module and a second portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a second module. The removable panel and modules can form a storage and work system. The modules can be mobile or can be stationary. A number of mating surface arrangements are disclosed that cooperate with a number of module top surfaces.
Description
- This application is related to co-pending patent application US20020165-4 filed concurrently with this application.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- Generally, the invention relates to a workroom storage system for organizing the tools and supplies found in workrooms, especially garages. More specifically, the invention relates to a removable top or panel to connect multiple storage cabinets into a storage and work system that can be movable.
- 1. Description of the Related Art
- Stationary and mobile storage cabinets are known for use independently and with other storage cabinets or workbenches. Prior art desks and storage systems include multiple modules linked together.
- The invention relates to a removable panel sized to overlie and connect at least two modules each having a top. The removable panel can have a work surface on the top surface of the panel and a mating surface on the bottom surface of the panel. The mating surface can include a first portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a first module and a second portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a second module.
- The first portion and second portion are positioned to connect the at least two modules in side by side position.
- The removable panel can be sized to overlie and connect at least three modules and the mating surface can include at least a third portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a third module.
- At least the first and second portions of the mating surface can be arranged to engage the tops of the modules. The top of each module can include a recess, and the at least first and second portions can be arranged to be received in the recess in the at least two modules.
- The first and second portions can comprise a frame attached to the bottom surface arranged to be received in the recess in the at least two modules. The top of each module can include a perimetrical flange extending above and around at least a portion of a top wall defining the recess.
- In another aspect of the invention the at least first and second portions can be arranged to surround the tops of the modules. The first and second portions can include a frame attached to the bottom surface arranged to surround the tops of the modules. Alternately, the first and second portions comprise recesses in the mating surface arranged to receive the tops of the modules.
- In another aspect of the invention the first and second portions can be a plurality of connectors arranged to be received in a plurality of recesses in the tops of the modules. The connectors can be pins in the mating surface of the removable panel. Alternately, the connectors can be threaded fasteners carried by the removable top arranged to be fastened into openings in the top of modules.
- In another aspect of the invention the first and second portions can be a plurality of recesses in the mating surface arranged to receive a plurality of connectors in the tops of the modules. The connectors comprise threaded fasteners arranged in the tops of the modules to be fastened into recesses in the mating surface.
- In another aspect of the invention the removable top can include at least one overlap portion that extends beyond at least one sidewall of a module. The at least one overlap portion can be pivotally connected to the removable panel and arranged to be positioned to extend the work surface in one position and to be folded down in a second position.
- In another aspect the invention relates to a storage and work system having at least two movable modules each having a top, a removable panel sized to overlie the at least two movable modules. The removable panel can have a work surface on the top surface of the panel and a mating surface on the bottom surface of the panel. The mating surface can include at least a first portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a first module and a second portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a second module.
- In another aspect the invention relates a modular workbench system including a workbench having an elongated workbench top supported on a plurality of legs. The workbench can define an open space bounded by the floor, the plurality of legs and the workbench top for docking a plurality of mobile modules. The modular workbench system can include a plurality of mobile modules having cabinet including a top and movably mounted on wheels. The mobile modules can have a removable panel sized to overlie the at least two movable modules forming a removable panel assembly having a work surface on the top surface of the panel and a mating surface on the bottom surface of the panel. The mating surface can include at least a first portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a first module and a second portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a second module to connect the at least two modules into an assembly. The modules and removable panel assembly can be sized for docking underneath the workbench top for storage and access, and for movement of the assembly from underneath the workbench top for rearrangement of the modules, for access to the modules away from the workbench and for use of the assembly as a mobile worksurface or for cleaning under the workbench.
-
FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of one embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on movable modules positioned under a modular workbench; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the removable panel and movable modules ofFIG. 1 withdrawn and parked adjacent the workbench; -
FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on movable modules; -
FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of the removable panel as shown inFIG. 2 with the removable panel tipped upwardly to a vertical position to show the underside of one embodiment of the removable panel; -
FIG. 5 is a schematic front view illustrating the embodiment of the removable panel as shown inFIGS. 1-4 installed on movable modules; -
FIG. 5A is a schematic front view illustrating another embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on movable modules; -
FIG. 6 is a schematic front view illustrating another embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on movable modules; -
FIG. 7 is a schematic front view illustrating another embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on movable modules; -
FIG. 8 is a schematic front view illustrating another embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on movable modules; -
FIG. 9 is a schematic front view illustrating another embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on movable modules; -
FIG. 10 is a schematic front view illustrating another embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on movable modules; -
FIG. 11 is a schematic front view illustrating another embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on movable modules; -
FIG. 12 is a front view of another embodiment of a removable panel according to the invention installed on modules having leveling legs; -
FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of a movable drawer module that can be used with a removable panel according to the invention; -
FIG. 14 is a front perspective view of a movable cabinet module that can be used with a removable panel according to the invention; -
FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of a movable refrigerator module that can be used with a removable panel according to the invention. - A storage and work system according to the invention can be used alone or in conjunction with a modular workbench that can include storage space for one or more movable modules that can dock underneath the workbench. The storage and work system can be used with a workbench system as disclosed in co-pending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/334,078, “Arent et. al., '078” and in conjunction with the slotwall panel storage system disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,811,043, “Perkins et. al., '043”. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/334/078 and U.S. Pat. No. 6,811,043 are fully incorporated herein by reference.
- In accordance with the present invention, a removable top or panel can be provided to overlie and connect at least two modules to form a storage and work system. In a preferred embodiment the modules can be movable modules that can be combined with a removable panel to form a movable storage and work system. Turning to
FIGS. 1 and 2 amodular workbench 10 can be seen with a movable storage andwork system 20.Modular workbench 10 can include aleg assembly 12, a top 14 and apower strip 16 all as described in detail in Arent et. al. '078. The storage andwork system 20 can include two or moremovable cabinet modules 40 and aremovable panel 22. In this application removable panels will be referred to as a “panel” although they could also be referred to as a “top” or a “cover”. Aremovable panel 22 can be sized to overlie and connect two ormore modules 40 that, as described above, can be movable. As will be described in detail below,removable panel 22 can connect two or moremovable modules 40 so that the modules can be moved together from a docked position under modular workbench 10 (seeFIG. 1 ) to a position away from the modular workbench 10 (seeFIG. 2 ).Removable panel 22 can have awork surface 24 on the top surface ofremovable panel 22. The storage andwork system 20 can provide a large and stable work surface that can be mobile. If desired, the storage and work system can be a user's workbench without having to purchase a separate workbench such amodular workbench 10. As will be described in greater detail below, the storage and work system can allow the user to mix and match modules that can be used with aremovable panel 22 based on their preference. Likewise as will be described below modules having leveling legs can be used with a removable panel to provide a stationary storage and work system. Similarly, theremovable panel 22 can be offered with different materials on or forming the removable panel 22 (maple laminate, particle board, laminate or metal skin on particle board, molded plastic, etc.) as will be described in greater detail below. Thus consumers can create a storage and work system of their preference (both module type and panel material and work surface material and mobile or stationary modules). As noted above, a storage and work system can be used alone as a stationary or movable work surface or can be movable for docking under a modular workbench for storage and access to the modules. -
Modules 40 are described in Arent et. al. '078 and can include a plurality ofwheels 42 at the front ofcabinet modules 40.Wheels 42 can be fixed for movement parallel to the side walls ofmodules 40.Casters 47 can be provided at the rear of modules 40 (FIG. 13 ) as described below and described in detail in Arent et. al. '078. The storage andwork system 20 can be arranged to include twomovable modules 40 as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2 , or can be arranged to include threemovable modules 40 as illustrated inFIG. 3 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate thatmodular workbench 10 can be sized to dock two modules as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2 or to dock three or more modules as described in Arent et. al. '078. The storage andwork system 20′ illustrated inFIG. 3 can be similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2 but can have a removable panel 22' arranged to overlie and connect threemovable modules 40. Those skilled in the art will understand that a storage and work system can be arranged to include more than three movable modules if desired, particularly if one or more movable modules are narrower than the movable modules illustrated inFIGS. 1-3 and 13-15. - In
FIGS. 1-11 , the modules are illustrated asmovable cabinet modules 40. Three embodiments of movable modules that can be used in conjunction with the invention are illustrated inFIGS. 13-15 , and are described in more detail in Arent et. al. '078. Movable modules can include other configurations within the scope of the invention. Those skilled in the art will understand that other movable module configurations can be used with a removable top according to the invention in lieu of or addition to thecabinet modules 40 shown inFIGS. 1, 2 and 13-15. Movable modules having wheels, rollers, casters and the like to allow the module to be readily moved by a user can be used. Similarly, the embodiments ofFIGS. 1-4 and 13-15 illustrate movable modules with certain surfaces having a pattern on the surface. Those skilled in the art will understand that movable modules having plane surfaces or other forms of patterned surfaces can be used in conjunction with a removable panel according to the invention. In addition, one or more movable modules can be individually docked underworkbench 10 without aremovable panel 22 as described in Arent et. al. '078. - In
FIG. 12 a storage andwork system 20″ is illustrated withmodules 100 having a plurality of levelinglegs 89 instead of a plurality of wheels as in the embodiments having movable modules illustrated inFIGS. 1-11 .Modules 100 can be connected byremovable panel 22′″ to form storage andwork system 20″.Modules 100 can have a plurality of levelinglegs 89 instead of wheels although those skilled in the art will understand thatwheels 42 andcasters 47 can be provided as in the modules illustrated inFIGS. 13-15 .Modules 100 can have four levelinglegs 89.Modules 100 can have one ormore doors 87 for closing a lower portion ofmodule 100 and one ormore drawers 88 slidably mounted in the top portion ofmodule 100. Those skilled in the art will understand thatdrawers 88 can be eliminated providing an open storage space in the top portion ofmodule 100 if desired. Those skilled in the art will also understand that the modules illustrated inFIGS. 13-15 can be provided with levelinglegs 89 as used withmodule 100 illustrated inFIG. 12 instead ofwheels 42 andcasters 47. - Turning to
FIG. 4 , a storage andwork system 20 is shown with one embodiment of aremovable panel 22 according to the invention tipped upwardly to the generally upright position to show themating surface 26 ofremovable panel 22 and the top ofmovable modules 40.Removable panel 22 can have amating surface 26 arranged to connect two or moremovable modules 40. In thisembodiment mating surface 26 can have a plurality ofstrips removable panel 22.Strips gap 35 and strips 32 and 38 can definegap 37. Those skilled in the art will understand that strips 28 & 34 and strips 32 & 38 can each be a single strip withgaps gaps Movable modules 40 can haveperimetrical flange elements top wall 41 ofmovable cabinet module 40.Perimetrical flange elements strips Strips first portion 29 of themating surface 26 arranged to be received in a recess defined by theperimetrical flange elements movable cabinet 40.Strips second portion 31 of themating surface 26 arranged to be received in a recess defined by theperimetrical flange elements movable cabinet 40.Gaps perimetrical flange elements removable panel 22 to connect the front and rear edges of the perimetrical flanges onmovable modules 40. Those skilled in the art will understand that additional strips can be provided onmating surface 26 extending fromstrips gaps strips gaps Movable modules 40 can includebumpers 43 as described in Arent et. al. '078.Bumpers 43 can help maintainmovable modules 40 spaced apart when they are connected by aremovable panel 22. Those skilled in the art will understand that a plurality of spaced apart blocks can be used instead ofstrips second portions mating surface 26. Those skilled in the art will also understand that blocks used in place ofstrips perimetrical flanges modules 40. Further, parallel strips running from side to side or from front to back can be used to form first andsecond portions FIG. 4 . - The storage and work system of the embodiment of
FIG. 3 can have aremovable panel 22′ arranged to overlie and connect threemovable modules 40.Removable panel 22′ can have a plurality of strips on the mating surface, not shown, arranged similar to the strips on themating surface 26 ofremovable panel 22 as described above. In addition two or more additional strips can be provided on the mating surface, not shown, that can form a third portion, similar to the first and second portion, that can be received in the recess formed by a perimetrical flange around a portion of the top wall of the thirdmovable module 40. The additional strips, not shown, can be parallel strips arranged side to side or front to back or other arrangements as described in the previous paragraph. -
Removable panels laminate work surface 24 on the top surface.Strips removable panel 22. Whenremovable panel 22 is formed of particle board the strips can be glued and fastened with a plurality of screws orother fasteners 39 to form the mating surface including afirst portion 29 and asecond portion 31. Those skilled in the art will understand that strips 28, 30, 32, 34, 36 and 38 can be affixed toremovable panel 22 in other ways such as gluing or fastening with mechanical fasteners only and by using other known mechanical fasteners appropriate to the material being used to formremovable panel 22. Those skilled in the art will understand thatremovable panel 22 can be formed of other materials such as a laminated wood top as described in Arent et. al. '078. Thework surface 24 can be laminate material similar to laminate material used on residential and commercial work surfaces and countertops. Thework surface 24 can also be other material such as sheet metal or other rugged and/or resilient sheet material as desired by consumers. -
Removable panel 22′″ illustrated inFIG. 12 can be similar toremovable panel 22 described above in connection withFIG. 4 . Likewisecombination cabinet module 100 can have a perimetrical flange (not shown) similar toflange elements FIG. 4 . Those skilled in the art will understand thatremovable panel 22′″ can be formed similar toremovable panel 22 described above. - Turning to
FIGS. 5-11 schematic outline drawings of storage and work systems according to the invention can be seen. Those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments of a storage and work system illustrated inFIGS. 5-11 can include three or more modules, similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3 as well as two modules as illustrated inFIGS. 5-11 . The embodiments described inFIGS. 5-11 will be described in combination with movable modules generally similar tomovable modules 40 havingwheels 42 and casters 47 (not shown) as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that other movable modules such as illustrated inFIGS. 13-15 or other movable modules can be used with the removable panel embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 5-11 . Likewise, those skilled in the art will understand thatstationary modules 100 as illustrated inFIG. 12 can be used with the removable panel embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 5-11 .FIG. 5 is a schematic front view outline showing twomodules 40 connected by aremovable panel 22 overlying the modules. As described above, a plurality of strips can be attached tomating surface 26 to form first andsecond portions movable modules 40. As described above, the top ofmovable modules 40 can include atop wall 41 that can haveperimetrical flange elements 44, 46 (seeFIG. 4 ) and 48 extending upwardly around at least a portion of the perimeter oftop wall 41. In the embodiment ofFIG. 5A removable panel 22″ can have afirst portion 29′ and asecond portion 31′ that can be integral withremovable panel 22″. For example,removable panel 22″ can be a laminated maple top or other solid material having a gap formed by removing panel material to form achannel 33 that can cooperate withperimetrical flange elements movable modules 40. Those skilled in the art will understand thatremovable panel 22″ can be particle board, plywood or other sheet material capable of having achannel 33 formed in themating surface 26′. Those skilled in the art will also understand that, if desired, removable panels for the embodiments of the invention described in this application can be molded plastic material with mating surfaces according to the invention formed in, or attached to, the removable panel. - Turning to
FIG. 6 another embodiment of aremovable panel 52 according to the invention can be seen connecting twomovable modules 40′.Movable modules 40′ can be similar tomovable modules 40 with atop wall 41′ that can be a substantially flat surface or a substantially flat frame around the perimeter ofmodule 40′.Removable panel 52 can have awork surface 54 and amating surface 55. Mating surface can have a plurality ofstrips mating surface 55 at the periphery ofmating surface 55.Strip 58 can extend the full width of themodules 40′, or if desired can extend only a portion of the width ofmodules 40′ sufficient to keepmodules 40′ in side by side relation. In the embodiment ofFIG. 6 themating surface 55 of theremovable panel 52 can comprise a recess having afirst portion 51 defined bystrips second portion 53 defined bystrips removable panel 52 can overlie and connect two or moremovable modules 40′. If desired, one or more partial strips or a full strip, not shown, can be attached tomating surface 55 to extend across the front ofmovable modules 40′ if desired to more securely holdmodules 40′ in side by side relation whenremovable panel 52 is positioned over themovable modules 40′. Alternately,first portion 51 andsecond portion 53 of theremovable panel 52 can be formed by removing material to form recesses on themating surface 55 arranged to receive thetop walls 41′ ofmodules 40′. - Turning to
FIG. 7 another embodiment of aremovable panel 62 according to the invention can be seen connecting twomovable modules 40″.Movable modules 40″ can be similar tomovable modules 40 with atop wall 41″ that can have a plurality ofpins 67 provided ontop wall 40″.Removable panel 62 can have awork surface 64 and amating surface 66.Mating surface 66 can include a plurality ofrecesses 68 arranged in a pattern as desired. Those skilled in the art will understand thatfirst portion 63 andsecond portion 65 can have at least tworecesses 68 provided inmating surface 66 to align with two ormore pins 67 provided ontop wall 41″ ofmodule 40″. The number ofcorresponding pins 67 and recesses 68 for each of thefirst portion 63 andsecond portion 65 can be selected to provide the connection betweenremovable panel 62 and themovable modules 40″. Similarly, those skilled in the art will understand that instead of extending a portion of the way throughremovable panel 62, recesses 68 can extend throughremovable panel 62 to allow removable panel to be secured to two or moremovable modules 40″ with mechanical fasteners if desired. Alternately, pins 67 could be replaced by threaded fasteners screwed intorecesses 68 to attachremovable panel 62 to two ormore modules 40″. As described aboveremovable panel 62 can be formed of particle board, laminated wood, molded plastic or other sheet material as desired, and can have a laminate or other sheetmaterial work surface 64 as desired.Pins 68 can be formed integrally intop wall 41″ or can be removably or permanently attached totop wall 41″, again as desired. By way of example, pins 68 can be cylindrical in form having a center bore to receive a threaded fastener to mount thepins 68 to thetop wall 41″. In the event pins 68 are cylindrical, recesses 67 can be bore holes sized to receive pins 68. Those skilled in the art will understand that pins 68 can take any shape and recesses 67 can be formed to receive thepins 68. - Turning to
FIG. 8 another embodiment of aremovable panel 72 according to the invention can be seen connecting twomovable modules 40′″.Movable modules 40′″ can be similar tomovable modules 40 with atop wall 41′″ that can have a plurality ofrecesses 78 provided ontop wall 40′″.Removable panel 72 can have awork surface 74 and amating surface 76.Removable panel 72 can have a plurality ofpins 77 positioned onmating surface 76 to be received inrecesses 78 to connectmovable modules 40′″. The plurality ofpins 77 positioned onmating surface 76 can be arranged in afirst portion 73 and asecond portion 75. Each offirst portion 73 andsecond portion 75 can have two or more sets ofpins 77 and recesses 78.Recesses 78 can be integrally formed intop wall 41′″ or can be sockets inserted and fastened into openings intop wall 41′″.Pins 77 can be pressed into openings inmating surface 76 or can have a threaded portion arranged to be screwed intoremovable panel 72. Those skilled in the art will understand that pins 77 and recesses 78 can be formed in other ways within the scope of the invention. Similar to the embodiment ofFIG. 7 , the shape ofrecesses 78 and pins 77 can be cylindrical or other shapes as desired. Likewise, the number and pattern ofrecesses 78 and pins 77 included in thefirst portion 73 andsecond portion 75 can be selected as desired to provide a desired degree of security in the connection ofmovable modules 40′″ whenremovable panel 72 is installed. Similar to the embodiment disclosed inFIG. 7 , pins 78 can be replaced by openings to receive screws or threaded fasteners to fastenremovable panel 72 to two or more modules. If screws of threaded fasteners are employedrecesses 78 can be replaced by holes to receive such screws of threaded fasteners. Those skilled in the art will understand that retainers for threaded fasteners can be mounted ontop wall 40′″. As described above,removable panel 72 can be formed of particle board, laminated wood, molded plastic or other sheet material as desired, and can have a laminate or other work surface material as desired. - In operation, the removable panel embodiments described in
FIGS. 6-8 can be used to overlie and connect at least two movable modules substantially similar to the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-5 .Removable panels movable modules 40′, 40″ and 40′″ respectively. The storage and work system can be moved as an assembly to a position such as shown inFIG. 2 to provide a movable work surface. As described above, the storage and work system can be positioned under a modular workbench as illustrated inFIG. 1 for access to the modules as storage space. As also described above, each of theremovable panels FIGS. 6-8 can be arranged to overlie and connect three or moremovable modules 40′, 40″ and 40′″ by providing themating surface FIG. 3 . Typically it will be preferred to have similar mating portions on the mating surface of a removable panel. However, those skilled in the art will understand that a removable panel can be provided with a mating surface have a first portion employing one of the embodiments described above and a second portion employing a different embodiment if desired in order to use the removable panel with modules having different top surfaces. - Turning to
FIG. 9 another embodiment ofremovable panel 102 according to the invention can be seen connecting at least twomovable modules 40.Removable panel 102 can have awork surface 104, and amating surface 106.Mating surface 106 can include a plurality of strips that can be arranged to form afirst portion 129 and asecond portion 131 similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1-5 .First portion 129 andsecond portion 131 can includestrips Removable panel 102 can be similar toremovable panel 22 described above and can haveoverhang portions 108 that can extend beyond thesidewalls 49 ofmovable modules 40.Overhang portions 108 can be provided on one, two, three or all four sides ofremovable panel 102 as desired (overhang portions 108 on two sides are illustrated inFIG. 9 ).Overhang portions 108 can facilitate clamping material towork surface 104 or for clamping portable tools or fixtures such a portable vice to thework surface 104.Overhang portions 108 can extend 1″ to 12″ or more as desired. In this regard the embodiment ofFIG. 6 can be considered to include overhang portions consisting of the edges ofremovable panel 52 and strips 56, 58 and 60 that extend around thetop wall 41′ ofmovable modules 40′. - Turning to
FIG. 10 another embodiment ofremovable panel 112 according to the invention can be seen connecting at least twomovable modules 40.Removable panel 112 can have awork surface 114, and amating surface 116.Mating surface 116 can include a plurality of strips that can be arranged to form afirst portion 129 and asecond portion 131 similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1-5 .First portion 129 andsecond portion 131 can includestrips Removable panel 112 can be similar toremovable panel 22 described above and can haveoverhang portions 118 that can extend beyond thesidewall 49 ofmovable module 40. In the embodiment ofFIG. 10 overhang portions 118 can be pivotally mounted toremovable panel 112 usinghinges 119 that can latch with overhang portions in the solid line position as is well known in the art to provide an expanded work surface or to facilitate clamping of work material, tools or equipment toremovable panel 112.Overhang portions 118 can be released to pivot down onhinges 119 to the dashed line position when not required. As in the embodiment ofFIG. 9 ,overhang portions 118 can be provided on one, two, three or all four sides of removable top 112. As in the case of the embodiment ofFIG. 9 overhang portions 118 can extend 1″ to 12″ or more as desired. Typically a hingedoverhang extension 118 will extend 2″ or more. - Turning to
FIG. 11 another embodiment ofremovable panel 122 according to the invention can be seen connecting at least twomovable modules 40.Removable panel 122 can have awork surface 124, and amating surface 126.Mating surface 126 can include afirst portion 129′ and asecond portion 131′ similar to the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 5A .First portion 129′ andsecond portion 131′ can be integral withremovable panel 122. For exampleremovable panel 122 can be a laminated maple top or other solid material having a grooves formed by removing material to formchannel 133 andgrooves 135.Channel 133 can be arranged to receiveflanges movable modules 40 as described above in the embodiment ofFIG. 6 . In order to provide for one ormore overhang portions 125additional grooves 135 can be formed inmating surface 126 to accommodateflanges Removable panel 122 can be similar toremovable panel 102 described above and can haveoverhang portions 125 that can extend beyond the sidewall(s) 49 ofmovable module 40.Overhang portions 125 can be provided on one, two, three or all four sides ofremovable panel 122 as desired (overhang portions 125 on two sides are illustrated inFIG. 11 ). Those skilled in the art will understand that any of the embodiments illustrated inFIGS. 1-5 , and 6-8 can have a removable panel having one or more overhang portions similar to the removable panels illustrated inFIGS. 9-11 if desired. - Turning to
FIGS. 13-15 three embodiments of movable modules described in more detail in Arent et. al. '078 can be seen. InFIG. 13 a movable drawer module 80 can be seen having a plurality ofdrawers movable cabinet module 40 described above and shown inFIG. 14 ,movable drawer module 80 can have atop wall 41 havingperimetrical flange elements top wall 41 to form a recess to receive a removable panel. Similar to themovable cabinet module 40,movable drawer module 80 can havewheels 42,casters 47 andbumpers 43. - In
FIG. 15 a movable refrigerator module 90 can be seen having arefrigerator door 92 for allowing selective access to the inside of the modular refrigerator. Modular refrigerator 90 is described in more detail in Arent et. al. '078 and in co-pending U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 10/744,556, Junge et. al. fully incorporated in this application by reference. Similar to themovable cabinet module 40 described above and shown inFIG. 13 , movable refrigerator module 90 can have atop wall 91 havingperimetrical flange elements top wall 91 to form a recess to receive a removable panel. Similar to themovable cabinet module 40, movable refrigerator module 90 can havewheels 93,casters 95 andbumpers 97. - Those skilled in the art will understand that any of the mating arrangements illustrated in the embodiments of
FIGS. 5-11 can be used in conjunction with the movable modules illustrated inFIGS. 13-15 andmodules 100 having levelinglegs 89 illustrated inFIG. 12 . The invention is not limited to the specific mating arrangements described above which are to be understood as examples and not the only mating arrangements contemplated by the inventors. Similarly, the invention is not limited to use with modules having leveling legs as illustrated inFIG. 12 or movable modules as illustrated inFIGS. 13-15 , but can be used in connection with storage modules provided with a mating arrangement in accordance with the invention. - Removable panels according to the invention and two or more modules can be provided with a power strip as described in Arent et. al. '078 incorporated by reference in this application (see
FIGS. 4-4B of Arent et. al. '078). While the power strip described in Arent et. al. '078 is arranged to be mounted to aworkbench 10, those skilled in the art will understand that a power strip could be mounted directly to a removable panel according to the invention for to two or more modules, particularly when a removable panel is attached to two or more modules using fasteners as described above in connection with the embodiments ofFIGS. 7 and 8 . - While the invention has been specifically described in connection with certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this is by way of illustration and not of limitation, and the scope of the appended claims should be construed as broadly as the prior art will permit.
Claims (21)
1. A removable panel sized to overlie and connect at least two modules each having a top comprising:
a work surface comprising the top surface of the panel;
a mating surface on the bottom surface of the panel including at least:
a first portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a first module; and
a second portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a second module.
2. The removable panel according to claim 1 , wherein the first portion and second portion are positioned to connect the at least two modules in side by side position.
3. The removable panel according to claim 1 , wherein the removable panel is sized to overlie and connect at least three modules and the mating surface includes at least a third portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a third module.
4. The removable panel according to claim 1 , wherein the at least first and second portions are arranged to engage the tops of the modules.
5. The removable panel according to claim 4 , wherein the top of each module includes a recess, and the at least first and second portions are arranged to be received in the recess in the at least two modules.
6. The removable panel according to claim 5 , wherein the first and second portions comprise a frame attached to the bottom surface arranged to be received in the recess in the at least two modules.
7. The removable panel according to claim 5 , wherein the top of each module comprises a perimetrical flange extending above and around at least a portion of a top wall defining the recess.
8. The removable panel according to claim 7 , wherein the first and second portions are formed by grooves formed in the mating surface arranged to receive at least a portion of the perimetrical flange of each module allowing the first and second portions to be received in the recess in the at least two modules.
9. The removable panel according to claim 4 , wherein the at least first and second portions are arranged to surround the tops of the modules.
10. The removable panel according to claim 9 , wherein the first and second portions comprise a frame attached to the bottom surface arranged to surround the tops of the modules.
11. The removable panel according to claim 9 , wherein the first and second portions comprise recesses in the mating surface arranged to receive the tops of the modules.
12. The removable panel according to claim 4 , wherein the first and second portions comprise a plurality of connectors arranged to be received in a plurality of recesses in the tops of the modules.
13. The removable panel according to claim 12 , wherein the connectors comprise pins in the mating surface of the removable panel.
14. The removable panel according to claim 12 , wherein the connectors comprise threaded fasteners carried by the removable top arranged to be fastened into openings in the top of modules.
15. The removable panel according to claim 4 , wherein the first and second portions comprise a plurality of recesses in the mating surface arranged to receive a plurality of connectors in the tops of the modules.
16. The removable panel accord to claim 15 , wherein the connectors comprise threaded fasteners arranged in the tops of the modules to be fastened into recesses in the mating surface.
17. The removable panel according to claim 1 , wherein the removable top includes at least one overlap portion that extends beyond at least one sidewall of a module.
18. The removable panel according to claim 17 , wherein the at least one overlap portion is pivotally connected to the removable panel and arranged to be positioned to extend the work surface in one position and to be folded down in a second position.
19. A storage and work system comprising:
at least two movable modules each having a top;
a removable panel sized to overlie the at least two movable modules and having a work surface comprising the top surface of the panel and a mating surface on the bottom surface of the panel including at least:
a first portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a first module; and
a second portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a second module.
20. The storage and work system according to claim 19 , further comprising a power strip having a plurality of electrical outlets on the work surface.
21. A modular workbench system comprising:
a workbench having an elongated workbench top supported on a plurality of legs, the workbench defining an open space bounded by the floor, the plurality of legs and the workbench top for docking a plurality of mobile modules; and
at least two modules having cabinet including a top and movably mounted on wheels; and
a removable panel sized to overlie the at least two movable modules having a work surface on the top surface of the panel and a mating surface on the bottom surface of the panel including at least a first portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a first module and a second portion arranged to cooperate with the top of a second module to connect the at least two modules into an assembly;
wherein the modules and removable panel assembly are sized for docking underneath the workbench top for storage and access, and for movement of the assembly from underneath the workbench top for rearrangement of the modules, for access to the modules away from the workbench and for use of the assembly as a mobile worksurface or for cleaning under the workbench.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/190,730 US20070022921A1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2005-07-27 | Storage and work system |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/190,730 US20070022921A1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2005-07-27 | Storage and work system |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20070022921A1 true US20070022921A1 (en) | 2007-02-01 |
Family
ID=37692890
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/190,730 Abandoned US20070022921A1 (en) | 2005-07-27 | 2005-07-27 | Storage and work system |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20070022921A1 (en) |
Cited By (9)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100011997A1 (en) * | 2006-11-09 | 2010-01-21 | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center | Dockable computer station |
US20100180606A1 (en) * | 2009-01-16 | 2010-07-22 | Moshe Gur | Partially Refrigerated Pet Supply Storage Device |
CN106181919A (en) * | 2016-06-30 | 2016-12-07 | 娄土岭 | A kind of auto parts and components quality detection work platform |
US20160373369A1 (en) * | 2013-07-04 | 2016-12-22 | Omicron Electronics Gmbh | Data transfer via a communication device |
EP3281751A1 (en) * | 2016-08-09 | 2018-02-14 | Tinavi Medical Technologies Co., Ltd. | An interlockable workbench |
USD850749S1 (en) * | 2017-06-26 | 2019-06-04 | Crystal Spring Colony Farms Ltd. | Tool cabinet |
US11083296B2 (en) * | 2018-12-28 | 2021-08-10 | Whirlpool Corporation | Top attachment for a laundry appliance |
US20210247807A1 (en) * | 2018-06-06 | 2021-08-12 | Patrick Ney | Static structure having a plurality of detachable components |
EP3970921A1 (en) * | 2020-09-22 | 2022-03-23 | Kafuwell (Hangzhou) Industryco., Ltd. | Tool trolley |
Citations (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US955804A (en) * | 1909-06-18 | 1910-04-19 | Sadia Hyde | Folding table. |
US1498132A (en) * | 1922-08-21 | 1924-06-17 | Frederick L G Straubel | Pedestaled desk |
US1700203A (en) * | 1926-12-10 | 1929-01-29 | Leonard W Langford | Sectional desk |
US1700202A (en) * | 1926-12-10 | 1929-01-29 | Leonard W Langford | Sectional desk |
US2103408A (en) * | 1936-11-12 | 1937-12-28 | Mildred I Eddy | Classroom committee table |
US2240767A (en) * | 1938-02-28 | 1941-05-06 | J F Friedel Paper Box Company | Desk, table, or other similar article of furniture |
US2558209A (en) * | 1947-12-09 | 1951-06-26 | Derman Harry | Knockdown desk |
US2582553A (en) * | 1949-08-17 | 1952-01-15 | Ferdinand Furniture Company In | Sectional toy furniture |
US2614017A (en) * | 1944-08-09 | 1952-10-14 | Mugnier Joachim | Multiple table desk |
US3049390A (en) * | 1961-02-03 | 1962-08-14 | Wolfe Lester | Utility desk and drawing board and the like |
US4735469A (en) * | 1986-10-17 | 1988-04-05 | Liggett Philip R | Audio-visual equipment station with adjustable tilt-top podium and storage features |
US5147120A (en) * | 1990-08-20 | 1992-09-15 | Ray Frank J | Stackable bureau and rack furniture |
US5507570A (en) * | 1991-08-23 | 1996-04-16 | Williams; Kenneth J. | Space master cabinet system |
US5642923A (en) * | 1995-10-20 | 1997-07-01 | Temp Top Container Systems, Inc. | Removable shelf system for a transport container |
US5743603A (en) * | 1995-04-14 | 1998-04-28 | Sligh Furniture Co. | Combination credenza and desk |
US5951129A (en) * | 1998-01-05 | 1999-09-14 | Stein; Brad A. | Tool-box |
US6047750A (en) * | 1998-03-17 | 2000-04-11 | Jensen; Steven M. | Modular utility stand storage apparatus and method |
US6053588A (en) * | 1994-07-29 | 2000-04-25 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Workstation |
US6877824B2 (en) * | 2003-02-21 | 2005-04-12 | Christine Elizabeth Winkless | Modular furniture |
US6926376B2 (en) * | 2002-12-30 | 2005-08-09 | Whirlpool Corporation | Modular workbench system |
US7192082B2 (en) * | 2004-08-23 | 2007-03-20 | Tennian Thomas H | Portable bench |
-
2005
- 2005-07-27 US US11/190,730 patent/US20070022921A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (21)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US955804A (en) * | 1909-06-18 | 1910-04-19 | Sadia Hyde | Folding table. |
US1498132A (en) * | 1922-08-21 | 1924-06-17 | Frederick L G Straubel | Pedestaled desk |
US1700203A (en) * | 1926-12-10 | 1929-01-29 | Leonard W Langford | Sectional desk |
US1700202A (en) * | 1926-12-10 | 1929-01-29 | Leonard W Langford | Sectional desk |
US2103408A (en) * | 1936-11-12 | 1937-12-28 | Mildred I Eddy | Classroom committee table |
US2240767A (en) * | 1938-02-28 | 1941-05-06 | J F Friedel Paper Box Company | Desk, table, or other similar article of furniture |
US2614017A (en) * | 1944-08-09 | 1952-10-14 | Mugnier Joachim | Multiple table desk |
US2558209A (en) * | 1947-12-09 | 1951-06-26 | Derman Harry | Knockdown desk |
US2582553A (en) * | 1949-08-17 | 1952-01-15 | Ferdinand Furniture Company In | Sectional toy furniture |
US3049390A (en) * | 1961-02-03 | 1962-08-14 | Wolfe Lester | Utility desk and drawing board and the like |
US4735469A (en) * | 1986-10-17 | 1988-04-05 | Liggett Philip R | Audio-visual equipment station with adjustable tilt-top podium and storage features |
US5147120A (en) * | 1990-08-20 | 1992-09-15 | Ray Frank J | Stackable bureau and rack furniture |
US5507570A (en) * | 1991-08-23 | 1996-04-16 | Williams; Kenneth J. | Space master cabinet system |
US6053588A (en) * | 1994-07-29 | 2000-04-25 | Herman Miller, Inc. | Workstation |
US5743603A (en) * | 1995-04-14 | 1998-04-28 | Sligh Furniture Co. | Combination credenza and desk |
US5642923A (en) * | 1995-10-20 | 1997-07-01 | Temp Top Container Systems, Inc. | Removable shelf system for a transport container |
US5951129A (en) * | 1998-01-05 | 1999-09-14 | Stein; Brad A. | Tool-box |
US6047750A (en) * | 1998-03-17 | 2000-04-11 | Jensen; Steven M. | Modular utility stand storage apparatus and method |
US6926376B2 (en) * | 2002-12-30 | 2005-08-09 | Whirlpool Corporation | Modular workbench system |
US6877824B2 (en) * | 2003-02-21 | 2005-04-12 | Christine Elizabeth Winkless | Modular furniture |
US7192082B2 (en) * | 2004-08-23 | 2007-03-20 | Tennian Thomas H | Portable bench |
Cited By (11)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100011997A1 (en) * | 2006-11-09 | 2010-01-21 | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center | Dockable computer station |
US20100180606A1 (en) * | 2009-01-16 | 2010-07-22 | Moshe Gur | Partially Refrigerated Pet Supply Storage Device |
US20160373369A1 (en) * | 2013-07-04 | 2016-12-22 | Omicron Electronics Gmbh | Data transfer via a communication device |
CN106181919A (en) * | 2016-06-30 | 2016-12-07 | 娄土岭 | A kind of auto parts and components quality detection work platform |
EP3281751A1 (en) * | 2016-08-09 | 2018-02-14 | Tinavi Medical Technologies Co., Ltd. | An interlockable workbench |
USD850749S1 (en) * | 2017-06-26 | 2019-06-04 | Crystal Spring Colony Farms Ltd. | Tool cabinet |
US20210247807A1 (en) * | 2018-06-06 | 2021-08-12 | Patrick Ney | Static structure having a plurality of detachable components |
US11934224B2 (en) * | 2018-06-06 | 2024-03-19 | Definitive Technology Group, Llc | Static structure having a plurality of detachable components |
US11083296B2 (en) * | 2018-12-28 | 2021-08-10 | Whirlpool Corporation | Top attachment for a laundry appliance |
US11647837B2 (en) | 2018-12-28 | 2023-05-16 | Whirlpool Corporation | Top attachment for a laundry appliance |
EP3970921A1 (en) * | 2020-09-22 | 2022-03-23 | Kafuwell (Hangzhou) Industryco., Ltd. | Tool trolley |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20070022921A1 (en) | Storage and work system | |
US8667908B2 (en) | Frame type table assemblies | |
US7147290B2 (en) | Modular workbench system | |
EP2575539B1 (en) | Reconfigurable table assemblies | |
US11944194B2 (en) | Frame type workstation configurations | |
US4066305A (en) | Modular electronic desk | |
US7296695B2 (en) | Workroom storage system | |
US20050242690A1 (en) | Workroom storage system | |
CA2741905C (en) | Split top table assemblies | |
US5255478A (en) | Modular institutional workstations | |
US7464946B2 (en) | Collapsible storage device/entertainment center | |
JPH076823Y2 (en) | Multi-tiered rack for computer mounting | |
US20070252494A1 (en) | Method and apparatus for installing a sliding drawer within a cabinet | |
US20050280339A1 (en) | Storage and work system | |
KR19980065065U (en) | Folding desk | |
US9795230B2 (en) | Modular display unit | |
KR20130027619A (en) | Assist bookrack for preventing collapse of bookshelf with slide panel and upper paner | |
CN210960939U (en) | Cabinet capable of being installed quickly | |
JPS621983Y2 (en) | ||
JP2022059515A (en) | desk | |
NL8901441A (en) | Kitchen cabinet construction system - has two side cabinets, centre cabinet and interconnecting work top | |
JP2000287756A (en) | Storing device for office | |
ES1054284U (en) | A modular furniture (Machine-translation by Google Translate, not legally binding) |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: WHIRLPOOL CORPORATION, MICHIGAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:PERKINS, TRAVIS M.;STOUT, MARK A.;CLINE, WYATT A.;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:016716/0828;SIGNING DATES FROM 20050725 TO 20050823 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |