Utility distribution system for modular furniture and the like
December 9, 2013. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent ReferencesSelf-configurable circuit structure for achieving wafer scale integration Wall panel with prewired power system Communication terminal for interconnecting programmable controllers in a loop Reconfigurable ring communications network Self configuring bus structure for computer network Open office landscape system Work space management system Apparatus for on-line checking and reconfiguration of integrated circuit chips Network and intelligent cell for providing sensing, bidirectional communications and control Network and intelligent cell for providing sensing bidirectional communications and control Inventors
AssigneeApplicationNo. 165029 filed on 12/09/1993US Classes:340/825.52, Addressing52/239Cubicle type; i.e., spaced from floor or ceilingExaminersPrimary: Zimmerman, BrianAttorney, Agent or FirmInternational ClassesH04Q 001/00H04Q 001/18 AbstractA utility distribution system is provided for modular furniture of the type comprising individual furniture units which are juxtaposed to form one or more workstations. A signal conductor is positioned in each furniture unit, and extends generally between opposite sides thereof. Quick-disconnect connectors are provided at the opposite ends of each of the signal conductors, and mate with like quick-disconnect connectors in adjacent furniture units to create a communications network through the workstations. Each furniture unit has a signaler physically associated therewith, which is connected with an associated signal conductor at a coupler. A network controller is operably connected to the network to evaluate the network and/or the associated furniture units. The furniture units may be equipped with one or more utility ports, which are connected with the coupler, and service utility appliances, such as personal computers, telephones, facsimile machines, switches, power outlets, data receptacles, and the like. The utility appliances preferably have memory capability to internally store operating instructions for the same, which are transmitted to the network controller when the utility appliance is initialized.Other References
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