Integrated reconfigurable wall system

Abstract

A movable reconfigurable wall system having at least one module having a front and rear surface, the at least one module having: vertical end frames disposed at least at its side edges, each the vertical end frame having a vertically extending flange directed toward the front surface and a vertically extending flange directed toward the rear surface; a plurality of horizontal stringers affixed between the pair of vertical end frames; and an aesthetic surface affixed to the stringers; and a removable connecting strip, the connecting strip adapted to affix about one of the two flanges on one of the vertical end frames and join the one of the two flanges to a corresponding flange on one of a second module, a wall bracket, a finishing trim or a connection post.

Claims

.[.1. A movable reconfigurable wall system comprising: a) at least one wall module having a front and rear surface and top, bottom, right side and left side edges, said at least one wall module having: i) a vertical end frame disposed adjacent to each of said right and left side edges, each vertical end frame having a first vertically extending flange and a spaced apart second vertically extending flange thereon, each of said first vertically extending flange and said second vertically extending flange having a beaded portion, the beaded portion on one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange extending toward the front surface of the wall module and the beaded portion on the other of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange extending toward the rear surface of the wall module; ii) a plurality of horizontal stringers affixed between said vertical end frames at said right and left side edges; and iii) an aesthetic surface affixed to said stringers; and b) a removable connecting strip having a pair of spaced apart flexible arms, each arm having a beaded portion thereon, the beaded portion of one of said arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange on said vertical end frame and the beaded portion of the other of said arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of a corresponding opposed vertically extending flange on a separate vertical end frame of a second wall module, a wall bracket, a finishing trim or a connection post to hold one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange together, the beaded portions of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange fitting inside the arms of said connecting strip to hold said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange together thereby releasably connecting said at least one wall module to the other of said second wall module, wall bracket, finishing trim or connection post..].

2. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said connecting strip includes a spine adapted to fit between said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange.

3. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim .[.2.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said connecting strip further includes a pair of flexible fin extensions extending opposite to said flexible arms for providing a seal.

4. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said aesthetic surface includes a tile panel on said front surface, said rear surface, or both said front surface and said rear surface.

5. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 4, wherein each said stringer includes one or more protrusions, said reconfigurable wall system further including tile clips for affixing tiles to said one or more protrusions.

6. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said aesthetic surface is a single divider selected from a group consisting of substrates consisting of glass, plastic, or wood and metal.

7. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 6, wherein said stringers and .Iadd.the first and second vertical .Iaddend.end frames include a channel for receiving said divider.

8. .[.The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 1,.]. .Iadd.A movable reconfigurable wall system comprising: a) at least one wall module having a front and rear surface and top, bottom, right side and left side edges, said at least one wall module having: i) a first vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the right side edge and a second vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the left side edge, each of the first and the second vertical end frames having a first vertically extending flange and a spaced apart second vertically extending flange thereon, each of said first vertically extending flange and said second vertically extending flange having a beaded portion, the beaded portion on one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange extending toward the front surface of the wall module and the beaded portion on the other of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange extending toward the rear surface of the wall module; ii) a plurality of horizontal stringers affixed between said vertical end frames at said right and left side edges; and iii) an aesthetic surface affixed to said stringers; and b) a removable connecting strip having a pair of spaced apart flexible arms, each arm having a beaded portion thereon, the beaded portion of one of said arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange on said first or second vertical end frame and the beaded portion of the other of said arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of a corresponding opposed vertically extending flange on a separate vertical end frame of a second wall module, a wall bracket, a finishing trim, or a connection post to hold one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange together, the beaded portions of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange fitting inside the arms of said connecting strip to hold said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange together thereby releasably connecting said at least one wall module to the other of said second wall module, wall bracket, finishing trim or connection post; .Iaddend. wherein said stringers include a cantilever channel stringer, said cantilever channel stringer having: a central horizontally extending channel portion with a generally L-shaped slot, said L-shaped slot adapted to receive and engage a substantially L-shaped hook formed on a wall accessory; an upper portion having a tile support; a lower portion having a tile support; and a pair of extending webs connecting said channel portion to said upper and a lower portion.

9. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said system further comprises an extension frame, said extension frame including a pair of vertical extension end frames and at least one stringer, said extension frame being affixed atop of said at least one module with a spline .[.on each end of said end frame.]. .Iadd.connecting each of said vertical extension end frames to one of said first vertical end frame and said second vertical end frame.Iaddend..

10. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said aesthetic surface includes a slat wall, said slat wall having slats and slat wall channels for connection to slat wall accessories.

11. .[.The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 1, said system further comprising.]. .Iadd.A movable reconfigurable wall system comprising: a) at least one wall module having a front and rear surface and top, bottom, right side and left side edges, said at least one wall module having: i) a first vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the right side edge and a second vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the left side edge, each of the first and the second vertical end frames having a first vertically extending flange and a spaced apart second vertically extending flange thereon, each of said first vertically extending flange and said second vertically extending flange having a beaded portion, the beaded portion on one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange extending toward the front surface of the wall module and the beaded portion on the other of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange extending toward the rear surface of the wall module; ii) a plurality of horizontal stringers affixed between said vertical end frames at said right and left side edges; and iii) an aesthetic surface affixed to said stringers; and b) a removable connecting strip having a pair of spaced apart flexible arms, each arm having a beaded portion thereon, the beaded portion of one of said arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange on said first or second vertical end frame and the beaded portion of the other of said arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of a corresponding opposed vertically extending flange on a separate vertical end frame of a second wall module, a wall bracket, a finishing trim, or a connection post to hold one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange together, the beaded portions of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange fitting inside the arms of said connecting strip to hold said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange together thereby releasably connecting said at least one wall module to the other of said second wall module, wall bracket, finishing trim or connection post; .Iaddend. a levelling system having: a universal foot; a leveller capable of engaging said universal foot; and a structural extrusion to engage surface of said at least one module, said structural extrusion connecting to said leveller, wherein said leveller provides the sole connection between said universal foot and said module.

12. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 11, wherein said leveller comprises: a cylindrical internally threaded upper section; an internally and externally threaded middle section, said external threads matching said internally threaded upper section; and an externally threaded lower section, said externally threaded lower section matching internal threads of said middle section, wherein said middle section can be twisted to extend or contract said leveller.

13. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim 11 further comprising a base trim, said base trim attaching to said universal foot.

14. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8, .Iaddend.further comprising a ceiling connection, said ceiling connection including: a ceiling track affixed to a ceiling; a horizontal upper section affixed to said module, said horizontal upper section adapted to fit about said ceiling track; .Iadd.and .Iaddend. a flexible gasket affixed to said horizontal upper section and extending above said horizontal upper section to contact the ceiling.

15. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said wall bracket comprises: an extrusion for connection to an existing wall in alignment with .[.said.]. .Iadd.at least one of the two vertical .Iaddend.end .[.frame.]. .Iadd.frames.Iaddend.; and first and second flanges on said extrusion corresponding to said first vertically extending flange and said second vertically extending flange on said .Iadd.at least one of the two vertical .Iaddend.end .[.frame.]. .Iadd.frames .Iaddend.and arranged in opposition thereto.

16. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8, .Iaddend.further comprising a wall joint, said wall joint comprising a flexible gasket and a channel, said channel adapted to connect to a flange of said at least one module.

17. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said at least one module includes curved stringers and curved aesthetic surfaces.

18. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said connection post includes at least two sides having vertically extending flanges thereon corresponding to and arranged in opposition to said first and second flanges on .[.said.]. .Iadd.at least one of the two vertical .Iaddend.end .[.frame.]. .Iadd.frames.Iaddend..

19. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., wherein said aesthetic surface includes a multimedia component.

20. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim 19, wherein said multimedia component is a video monitor.

21. .[.The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim 1,.]. .Iadd.A movable reconfigurable wall system comprising: a) at least one wall module having a front and rear surface and top, bottom, right side and left side edges, said at least one wall module having: i) a first vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the right side edge and a second vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the left side edge, each of the first and the second vertical end frames having a first vertically extending flange and a spaced apart second vertically extending flange thereon, each of said first vertically extending flange and said second vertically extending flange having a beaded portion, the beaded portion on one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange extending toward the front surface of the wall module and the beaded portion on the other of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange extending toward the rear surface of the wall module; ii) a plurality of horizontal stringers affixed between said vertical end frames at said right and left side edges; and iii) an aesthetic surface affixed to said stringers; and b) a removable connecting strip having a pair of spaced apart flexible arms, each arm having a beaded portion thereon, the beaded portion of one of said arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange on said first or second vertical end frame and the beaded portion of the other of said arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of a corresponding opposed vertically extending flange on a separate vertical end frame of a second wall module, a wall bracket, a finishing trim, or a connection post to hold one of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange together, the beaded portions of said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange fitting inside the arms of said connecting strip to hold said first vertically extending flange or said second vertically extending flange and said opposed vertically extending flange together thereby releasably connecting said at least one wall module to the other of said second wall module, wall bracket, finishing trim or connection post; .Iaddend. wherein said vertical end frame depth is extended to provide a deeper wall.

22. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim 21, wherein said deeper wall is adapted to accommodate a rear-projection video system.

23. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim 21, wherein said deeper wall is adapted to accommodate an integrated storage system.

24. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., further comprising a wall mounted module for mounting to an existing wall face, said wall mounted module having: a) vertical end brackets disposed at least at its side edges, each said vertical end frame having a vertically extending flange directed away from said existing wall face; b) a plurality of horizontal stringers affixed between said pair of vertical end brackets; and c) an aesthetic surface affixed to said stringers.

25. The movable reconfigurable wall unit of claim .[.1.]. .Iadd.8.Iaddend., further comprising a furniture system connectable to said at least one module, the furniture system having: a work surface, said work surface connectable to said stringers; and furniture legs, said furniture legs connecting to said work surface at a first end and connecting to a threaded bolt at a second end opposite said first end, said threaded bolt allowing levelling of said work surface.

.Iadd.26. A movable reconfigurable wall system comprising: a first wall module having a first vertical end frame disposed adjacent a left edge of the first wall module and a second vertical end frame disposed adjacent a right edge of the first wall module, the second vertical end frame comprising at least one vertically extending flange, the flange having a beaded portion extending therefrom; a first plurality of horizontal stringers interconnecting the first vertical end frame of the first wall module and the second vertical end frame of the first wall module; a second wall module having a first vertical end frame disposed adjacent a left edge of the second wall module and a second vertical end frame disposed adjacent a right edge of the second wall module, the first vertical end frame comprising at least one vertically extending flange, the flange having a beaded portion extending therefrom; a second plurality of horizontal stringers interconnecting the first vertical end frame of the second wall module and the second vertical end frame of the second wall module; a removable connecting strip comprising a pair of spaced apart flexible arms each having a beaded portion thereon, the connecting strip releasably connected to the beaded portion extending from the flange of the second vertical end frame of the first wall module and releasably connected to the beaded portion extending from the flange of the first vertical end frame of the second wall module, such that the removable connecting strip connects the first wall module to the second wall module; and a wall tile affixed to at least one of the first plurality of horizontal stringers and the second plurality of horizontal stringers via wall tile connectors; wherein at least one of the first plurality of horizontal stringers and the second plurality of horizontal stringers include a cantilever channel stringer, the cantilever channel stringer having: a horizontally extending channel portion with a generally L-shaped slot, the L-shaped slot adapted to receive and engage a substantially L-shaped hook formed on a wall accessory; and a wall tile support..Iaddend.

.Iadd.27. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 26, wherein: the wall tile support spans a length of the cantilever channel stringer; and a right edge of the wall tile support in the first wall module substantially aligns with a left edge of a wall tile support of the second wall module when the first wall module is connected to the second wall module..Iaddend.

.Iadd.28. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 27, wherein the wall tile comprises a connector strip with a pair of opposed flexible arms that attach to a bead of the wall tile support..Iaddend.

.Iadd.29. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 26, further comprising: a multimedia center suspended within the first wall module or within the second wall module; wherein a front face of the multimedia center does not extend beyond a front face of the wall tile..Iaddend.

.Iadd.30. The modular wall system as recited in claim 26, further comprising: a leveling system having: a foot; a leveler engaging and supported by said foot and engaging and supporting a horizontal member in said at least one module; wherein said leveler (a) has a height that is capable of being adjusted and (b) has a horizontal location that was established by sliding said leveler horizontally relative to, and while engaging, said horizontal member and/or said foot..Iaddend.

.Iadd.31. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 30, wherein the leveler comprises: a cylindrical internally threaded upper section; an internally and externally threaded middle section, the external threads matching the internally threaded upper section; and an externally threaded lower section, the externally threaded lower section matching internal threads of the middle section, wherein the middle section can be twisted to extend or contract the leveler..Iaddend.

.Iadd.32. The modular wall system as recited in claim 26, wherein: the wall tile connectors comprise a connector strip with a pair of opposed flexible arms; the wall tile support comprises a beaded portion; the flexible arms of the connector strip of the wall tile snap-fit to the beaded portion of the wall tile support; and the wall tile support provides an attachment interface that is parallel to the first or second plurality of horizontal stringers..Iaddend.

.Iadd.33. The modular wall system as recited in claim 26, wherein each of the first and second plurality of horizontal stringers comprises a cantilever channel stringer, further comprising: a wall accessory mounted to and cantilevering from a cantilever channel stringer of the first and second plurality of horizontal stringers; wherein the wall accessory extends beyond a front surface of the wall tile..Iaddend.

.Iadd.34. The modular wall system as recited in claim 33, wherein: the removable connecting strip is positioned sufficiently inwardly of the channel portion of the cantilever channel stringers of the first and second wall modules, such that the wall accessory can be moved between the first and second wall modules without interference with the removable connecting strip..Iaddend.

.Iadd.35. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 26, wherein said wall tile comprises a material selected from a group consisting of glass, plastic, wood, and metal..Iaddend.

.Iadd.36. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 35, wherein said stringers and the first and second vertical end frames further include a channel for receiving a divider comprising a material selected from the group consisting of glass, plastic, wood, and metal..Iaddend.

.Iadd.37. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 26, wherein: the system further comprises an extension frame; the extension frame includes a pair of vertical extension end frames and at least one stringer, and the extension frame is affixed atop of the at least one wall module with a spline affixed adjacent to a first side and a second side of the at least one wall module..Iaddend.

.Iadd.38. The modular wall system as recited in claim 26, further comprising a ceiling connection, the ceiling connection including: a ceiling track affixed to a ceiling; a horizontal upper section affixed to the module, the horizontal upper section adapted to fit about the ceiling track; and a flexible gasket affixed to the horizontal upper section and extending above the horizontal upper section to contact the ceiling..Iaddend.

.Iadd.39. The modular wall system as recited in claim 26, wherein: the wall tile is affixed to one or more of the first plurality of horizontal stringers and to one or more of the second plurality of horizontal stringers; the wall tile spans at least a portion of both the first wall module and the second wall module..Iaddend.

.Iadd.40. The modular wall system as recited in claim 26, further comprising: a wall accessory mounted in a cantilever manner to the first wall module within the corresponding cantilever channel stringer; and the wall accessory extends beyond a front surface of the wall tile..Iaddend.

.Iadd.41. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 26, further comprising a multimedia center suspended within the first wall module or within the second wall module..Iaddend.

.Iadd.42. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 41, wherein a front face of the multimedia center is flush with a front face of the wall tile..Iaddend.

.Iadd.43. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 41, wherein the multimedia center comprises a video monitor..Iaddend.

.Iadd.44. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 26, wherein: each of the first and second plurality of horizontal stringers further comprises an intermediate horizontal stringer affixed between the vertical end frames of the corresponding first or second wall modules; and each of the intermediate horizontal stringers is positioned below an upper horizontal stringer and above a lower horizontal stringer..Iaddend.

.Iadd.45. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 44, wherein: each of the intermediate horizontal stringers comprises a horizontally extending cantilever channel portion for receiving wall accessories..Iaddend.

.Iadd.46. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 44, wherein: each of the intermediate horizontal stringers comprises a wall tile support extending a horizontal length of the respective intermediate horizontal stringer; the wall tile is connected to a plurality of the wall tile supports through a snap-fit connection..Iaddend.

.Iadd.47. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 46, wherein a depth associated with the vertical end frames of the first wall module is deeper than a depth associated with the vertical end frames of the second wall module, such that the first wall module comprises a deeper wall..Iaddend.

.Iadd.48. The movable reconfigurable wall system of claim 47, wherein said deeper wall is adapted to accommodate a rear-projection video system, or an integrated storage system..Iaddend.

.Iadd.49. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 44, wherein the removable connecting strip is recessed behind an outermost portion of the intermediate horizontal stringer..Iaddend.

.Iadd.50. A movable reconfigurable wall system comprising: a) at least one wall module having a front and rear surface and top, bottom, right side and left side edges, the at least one wall module having: i) a first vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the right side edge and a second vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the left side edge, each of the first and the second vertical end frames having a first vertically extending flange and a spaced apart second vertically extending flange thereon, each of the first vertically extending flange and the second vertically extending flange having a beaded portion, the beaded portion on one of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange extending toward the front surface of the wall module and the beaded portion on the other of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange extending toward the rear surface of the wall module; ii) a plurality of horizontal stringers affixed between the vertical end frames at the right and left side edges; iii) a wall tile affixed to the stringers; and b) a removable connecting strip having a pair of spaced apart flexible arms, each arm having a beaded portion thereon, the beaded portion of one of the arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of one of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange on the first or second vertical end frame and the beaded portion of the other of the arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of a corresponding opposed vertically extending flange on a separate vertical end frame of a second wall module, a wall bracket, a finishing trim, or a connection post to hold one of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange and the opposed vertically extending flange together, the beaded portions of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange and the opposed vertically extending flange connecting to the arms of the connecting strip to hold the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange and the opposed vertically extending flange together thereby releasably connecting the at least one wall module to the other of the second wall module, wall bracket, finishing trim or connection post; wherein at least one of the plurality of horizontal stringers includes a cantilever channel stringer, the cantilever channel stringer having: a horizontally extending channel portion with a generally L-shaped slot, the L-shaped slot adapted to receive and engage a substantially L-shaped hook formed on a wall accessory; and a wall tile support..Iaddend.

.Iadd.51. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 50, further comprising: a leveling system having: a foot; a leveler engaging and supported by said foot and engaging and supporting a horizontal member in said at least one module; wherein said leveler: (a) has a height that is capable of being adjusted; and (b) has a horizontal location that was established by sliding said leveler horizontally relative to, and while engaging, said horizontal member and/or said foot..Iaddend.

.Iadd.52. A movable reconfigurable wall system comprising: a) at least one wall module having a front and rear surface and top, bottom, right side and left side edges, the at least one wall module having: i) a first vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the right side edge and a second vertical end frame disposed adjacent to the left side edge, each of the first and the second vertical end frames having a first vertically extending flange and a spaced apart second vertically extending flange thereon, each of the first vertically extending flange and the second vertically extending flange having a beaded portion, the beaded portion on one of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange extending toward the front surface of the wall module and the beaded portion on the other of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange extending toward the rear surface of the wall module; ii) a plurality of horizontal stringers affixed between the vertical end frames at the right and left side edges; iii) a wall tile affixed to the at least one wall module; and b) a removable connecting strip having a pair of spaced apart flexible arms, each arm having a beaded portion thereon, the beaded portion of one of the arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of one of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange on the first or second vertical end frame and the beaded portion of the other of the arms being adapted to connect releasably to the beaded portion of a corresponding opposed vertically extending flange on a separate vertical end frame of a second wall module, a wall bracket, a finishing trim, or a connection post to hold one of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange and the opposed vertically extending flange together, the beaded portions of the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange and the opposed vertically extending flange fitting inside the arms of the connecting strip to hold the first vertically extending flange or the second vertically extending flange and the opposed vertically extending flange together thereby releasably connecting the at least one wall module to the other of the second wall module, wall bracket, finishing trim or connection post; wherein the horizontal stringers include a cantilever channel stringer, the cantilever channel stringer having: a horizontally extending channel portion with a slot, the slot adapted to receive and engage a hook formed on a wall accessory; wherein the wall accessory cantilevers from the slot..Iaddend.

.Iadd.53. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 52, further comprising: a leveling system having: a foot; a leveler engaging and supported by said foot and engaging and supporting a horizontal member in said at least one module; wherein said leveler: (a) has a height that is capable of being adjusted; and (b) has a horizontal location that was established by sliding said leveler horizontally relative to, and while engaging, said horizontal member and/or said foot..Iaddend.

.Iadd.54. A movable reconfigurable wall system comprising: a first wall module having a first vertical end frame disposed adjacent a left edge of the first wall module and a second vertical end frame disposed adjacent a right edge of the first wall module, the second vertical end frame comprising at least one vertically extending flange, the flange having a beaded portion extending therefrom; a first plurality of horizontal stringers interconnecting the first vertical end frame of the first wall module and the second vertical end frame of the first wall module; a second wall module having a first vertical end frame disposed adjacent a left edge of the second wall module and a second vertical end frame disposed adjacent a right edge of the second wall module, the first vertical end frame comprising at least one vertically extending flange, the flange having a beaded portion extending therefrom; a second plurality of horizontal stringers interconnecting the first vertical end frame of the second wall module and the second vertical end frame of the second wall module; a removable connecting strip comprising a pair of spaced apart flexible arms each having a beaded portion thereon, the connecting strip releasably connected to the beaded portion extending from the flange of the second vertical end frame of the first wall module and releasably connected to the beaded portion extending from the flange of the first vertical end frame of the second wall module, such that the removable connecting strip connects the first wall module to the second wall module; and a wall tile affixed to one or more of the first plurality of horizontal stringers and to one or more of the second plurality of horizontal stringers via wall tile connectors, such that the wall tile spans at least a portion of both the first wall module and the second wall module..Iaddend.

.Iadd.55. The movable reconfigurable wall system as recited in claim 54, wherein: the wall tile connectors comprise one or more connector strips with a pair of opposed flexible arms; and the wall tile connectors connect the wall tile to beaded wall tile supports extending from both of the first plurality of horizontal stringers and the second plurality of horizontal stringers..Iaddend.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) Preferred embodiments of the applicant's integrated reconfigurable wall system will now be described in greater detail and will be better understood when read in conjunction with the following drawings in which:

(2) FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a module representative of the present tile cladded wall system;

(3) FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a wall system including two adjacent modules, one tile cladded and one glass wall;

(4) FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of the wall system of FIG. 3 showing the connection between adjacent modules;

(5) FIG. 4 is an exploded view of FIG. 3;

(6) FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a frame member including a finishing trim;

(7) FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a frame member including a wall starter trim where a module meets an existing wall;

(8) FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a height extension to an existing module;

(9) FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a portion of a wall module showing the orientation of horizontal members with integrated cantilever channel;

(10) FIG. 9 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 8 showing cantilever bracket details and tile clip connection details;

(11) FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a wall panel incorporating slat wall construction;

(12) FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the slat wall construction of FIG. 10;

(13) FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the related panel furniture system utilizing the same connectors and slat wall extrusion to support a work surface;

(14) FIG. 13 is a perspective, partially exploded view showing the assembly of a leg used to support the panel furniture system, utilizing the same connection zipper as the wall components of FIG. 12;

(15) FIG. 14 is a perspective, exploded view of a leveller for use with the present wall system;

(16) FIG. 15 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a leveller mounting system as it slides into the channel of a lower glass wall extrusion and universal foot extrusion;

(17) FIG. 16 is a side elevational view of the base trim connection to the leveller assembly;

(18) FIG. 17 is a perspective, schematic view of the present wall system including integrated media panels and storage areas;

(19) .Iadd.FIG. 17A is a perspective, schematic view of the wall system shown in FIG. 17, albeit showing vertical end frames with extended depth;.Iaddend.

(20) .Iadd.FIG. 17B is a schematic, comparative top end view of different vertical end frames with varying depth; .Iaddend.

(21) FIG. 18 is a perspective, schematic view of the present wall system incorporating an integrated media center;

(22) FIG. 19 is a plan view of a two-way rectilinear connector for the present wall system;

(23) FIG. 20 is a plan view of an alternative (radial) two-way connector for the present wall system;

(24) FIG. 21 is a plan view of a three-way connector for the present wall system;

(25) FIG. 22 is a plan view of a variance of a 90 degree connector for the present wall system;

(26) FIG. 23 is a plan view of a 120 degree connector for three merging walls according to the present wall system;

(27) FIG. 24 is a plan view of an end vertical and gasket for abutting existing walls with the present wall system;

(28) FIG. 25 is a plan view of a connector for connecting to existing walls according to the present wall system;

(29) FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of a floor leveller and ceiling connector for a solid (tile clad) wall;

(30) FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of a floor leveller and ceiling connector for a glass wall;

(31) FIG. 28 is a plan view of two wall panels having a gap between adjoining panels;

(32) FIG. 29 is a plan view of two wall panels directly abutting each other and being sealed with a zipper;

(33) FIG. 30 is a plan view of two wall panels directly abutting each other and having a zipper with no fins;

(34) FIG. 31 is a plan view of an end vertical and gasket for abutting existing walls with the present glass wall system; and

(35) FIG. 32 is a plan view of a connector for connecting to existing walls according to the present glass wall system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

(36) With reference to FIG. 1, the present invention is directed towards a wall system 10 made up of one or more modules 20. Each module comprises a pair of vertical end frames 12 that will be spaced apart by the desired width of each module. Modules 20 may be clad with tiles 18 and can be one or two sided with a finished wall surface on both sides or a finished wall surface on one side only. Tiles 18 can be made of wood, plastic, metal fabric glass or other material, and end frames 12 may be interconnected by a plurality of horizontal stringers 8 that will be described in greater detail below.

(37) With reference to FIG. 2, the next adjacent module 20 can be identical to its neighbour, or, as shown in this figure, may consist of two vertical end frames 17 and one or more dividers 14 which can be, for example, glass or plastic if transparency is desired. End frames 17 used for such dividers are shaped as shown most clearly in FIG. 4 and include a notch 19 that receives and holds the divider's vertical edge.

(38) Stringers 8 are horizontally spaced apart at intervals along the height of the module for strength and rigidity. To support objects, cantilever channel stringers 40, including a cantilever channel portion 41, are used, as shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. Stringers 8 that do not include channel portion 41 can be used anywhere structure is required but the channel portion is not required for supporting objects. For example, the lowest stringer 8a may not include cantilever channel portion 41. The stringers are connected to end frames 12 by fasteners, usually threaded screws, in a manner to be described below.

(39) If the module will be visible from both sides, finishing tiles 18 can be connected to the stringers on both sides of module 20. It is not necessary that the tiles on one side of the wall be at all like the tiles on the other. They can be different materials or even aligned differently as shown in FIG. 1, in which the tiles on one side of the module are horizontally mounted and the tiles on the other side of the wall are vertically mounted for a different look. The tiles can also span adjacent modules, if required. .Iadd.For example, FIG. 1A depicts finishing tiles 18 spanning adjacent modules 20. .Iaddend.If only one side of the module will be visible, which can be the case for example if the module is used as a curtain wall to cover an existing wall, its necessary to apply tiles 18 to only one side of the module as needed.

(40) The depth or thickness of the module can be selected by varying the width of frame 12 .Iadd.(see also frame 12a, FIG. 17A).Iaddend.. For example, as will be described below, the modules can house a rear projection or digital video system and the greater depth is needed to enclose the componentry.

(41) With reference to FIGS. 3, 4, 5 28 and 29, each end frame 12 and 17 includes a pair of rearwardly extending L-shaped flanges 23 that align vertically with correspondingly positioned and shaped flanges 23 on opposite end frame 12 or 17 so that frames 12 and 17 can be connected together by connecting strips (“zippers”) 25. If the adjacent module 20 itself comprises an end frame 12 as shown in FIGS. 28 and 29, flanges 23 will abut and will be connected together in the same manner using zippers 25. As shown most clearly in FIG. 28, each of flanges 23 is formed with a bead 27. Each zipper 25 is generally T-shaped in cross-sectional shape and includes a central spine 29 that fits between flanges 23 and a pair of .Iadd.flexible .Iaddend.arms 30 on opposite sides of the spine. Each arm includes a bead 31 that snap fits with beads 27 on flanges 23 for a secure but releasable connection. When two adjacent modules are connected together in this way, there is enough of a gap between them that the zippers can be accessed for removal, allowing an individual module to be removed should the need arise.

(42) As illustrated in FIGS. 28 and 29, each zipper can also include a pair of flexible extended fins 32 extending rearwardly from the spine 29. Depending on the application, a user may wish adjacent modules to be abutted together completely or to have a gap between them. In FIG. 28, a gap exists between the modules, and this gap is sealed using extending fins 32. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the width of the gap is variable since extensions 32 are flexible and can accommodate various widths.

(43) If no gap is desired, or if tiles span adjacent modules, FIG. 29 illustrates an embodiment having adjacent panels. In this case extensions 32 are behind each panel, and the force of extensions 32 against the rearward side of the module creates an acoustic seal for the wall.

(44) In an alternative embodiment illustrated in FIG. 30, it is also possible to have a zipper 25 without extensions 32. This may be desirable when modules 20 abut and an acoustical seal is not required.

(45) .Iadd.As such, in various embodiments, the zipper 25 may be positioned in a recessed location within the wall system 10, as illustrated. The recessed zipper 25 may allow for a single tile 18 to span multiple modules 20 without interference from the zipper 25. Additionally, a recessed zipper 25 may allow for the free movement of accessories 47 between adjacent wall modules 20 within a cantilever channel 41. .Iaddend.

(46) FIG. 5 shows an end piece 35 similar to end frame 17 but lacking notch 19. This end piece is therefore used to finish the vertical edge of module 20 using zippers 25 if no additional module is to be connected to it.

(47) If either of frames 12 or 17 is to start, or end, at an existing wall, flexible starter strips 37 can snap-fit onto flanges 23 as shown most clearly in FIG. 6. Starter strips 37 include curved flexible gaskets 38 which will conform to the shape of the existing wall and will provide sound and light barriers. This can also be seen in FIGS. 24 and 32.

(48) Alternatively, as illustrated in FIGS. 25 and 31, a wall start 43 can be mounted to an existing wall to provide a start to a module. Wall start 43 is preferably an aluminum extrusion mounted vertically to an existing wall using known mounting techniques. The mounting technique of screws shown in FIG. 25 is not meant to be limiting.

(49) Wall start 43 includes a flanges 23 and is connected to an end frame 12 or 17 using a zipper 25. As indicated above, extensions 32 can provide a seal against the wall and panel.

(50) To increase the height of an existing module 20, or to combine a glass module above or below a tile-clad module, a spline 39 can be used to connect end frame 12 (or 17) to an extension frame 12e as shown most clearly in FIG. 7. Actually, as shown in this figure, extension frame 12e is a length of frame 17, which allows the lower portion of the wall to be hung with standard tiles and the upper extended portion of the wall to be finished in a glass or plastic divider 14 .Iadd.(e.g., within notch 19 of either frame 17) .Iaddend.for a combination of finished looks. The upper and lower extrusions 90 .Iadd.(comprising notch 92, see also FIG. 15).Iaddend., which complete the framing of divider 14, will be described below in connection with a levelling system in which the same extrusion is used.

(51) It is desirable that work surfaces, mill work and wall accessories such as trays or document holders be connectable to modules 20. This can be easily achieved in the present system by using cantilever channel stringers 40 with channel brackets horizontally disposed in the channel between adjacent tiles 18 as shown most clearly in FIGS. 8 and 9.

(52) Each channel stringer 40 includes a central horizontally extending channel portion 41 with a generally L-shaped slot 42 formed along its length adapted to receive and engage a substantially L-shaped hook 45 formed on a wall accessory 47 such as the document holder shown in FIG. 8. A pair of diagonally extending webs 49 connects channel portion 41 to upper and lower portions 51 and 53 respectively. Each portion includes a tile support 55 that is the connection point for the tiles 18 that are mounted above and below channel portion 41. .Iadd.The tiles are connected to the channel stringers via opposing snap-fit tile connectors. .Iaddend.More specifically, the upper and lower edges of tiles 18 are provided with a .[.connector strip 60.]. .Iadd.tile connector in the form of a tile clip (connector strip 60), which is .Iaddend.attached by means of screws, adhesive or any other suitable fastening .Iadd.to the rear surface of tile 18, as illustrated.Iaddend.. Each .Iadd.connector .Iaddend.strip .Iadd.60 .Iaddend.includes a pair of opposed flexible arms 62 to snap-fit with .[.a generally arrow shaped bead 64.]. .Iadd.another wall tile support in the form of a protrusion (a generally arrow shaped bead 64) .Iaddend.formed along the edge of flanges 67 that are formed on and extend the length of each upper and lower portion 51 and 53. This allows individual tiles 18 to be removed or replaced without having to disassemble the entire wall. The flanges 23 formed on vertical end frames 12 and 17 that are connected together by zippers 25 are located sufficiently inwardly that the zippers will not interfere with the continuity of slot 42 from one module to the next so that wall accessories, mill work or work surfaces can be connected or moved between modules without interference.

(53) The upper and lower edges of tiles 18 that abut channel portion 41 of each channel bracket are camphored for clearance as seen most clearly in FIG. 9.

(54) The upper and lower portions 51 and 53 of the channel stringer 40 are advantageously formed with longitudinally extended circular recesses 57 and inner channels 58. Recesses 57 are adapted to receive screws used to connect end frames 12 or 17 to channel stringers 40. Channels 58 can be used to support mounting hardware for audio-video equipment mounted within the modules, cable management clips or any other hardware to be housed or contained in the module's interior. Channels 58 are also used to connect a single-sided tile clad module to brackets attached to existing wall surfaces.

(55) With reference to FIG. 10, another embodiment of the invention is shown incorporating a section of standard slat wall 69 including slats 70 and slat wall channels 71 for connection to all slat wall accessories 47. Slat wall panels can make up some or all of the panels incorporated into any one module 20 and the modules themselves are configured for use with end frames 12 and zippers 25 so that the modules themselves can be connected together in any desired combination. Slat wall modules can be one (FIG. 11) or two sided (FIG. 10) for use as either dividing or curtain walls.

(56) As shown in FIG. 12, in the applicant's related panel furniture system, a work surface or desktop 76 can be connected to modules 20. The desktop 76 can hook into either cantilevered channel stringers 40 or into slat wall channels 71 and otherwise the construction of the individual modules 20 is the same as described above for wall system 10. Furniture legs 80 shown in the example of FIG. 12 consist of a vertical frame 12 zipper connected to a finishing end extrusion 35 using zippers 25 as shown in FIG. 13, in the same manner as the wall system 10. The lower end of each furniture leg 80 is finished with a concentric sleeve 79 which conceals a threaded bolt 84 in the lower end of each leg which can be used for levelling.

(57) As illustrated in FIG. 23, three vertical extrusions 2310 are connected to each other to create the connection point for the three wall systems, and each wall meets the others at an angle of 120 degrees.

(58) In the case of modules having tiles that extend all the way down to the floor, applicant has developed a leveller mounting system that allows levellers to be placed anywhere along the length of a module and extra levellers to be added where needed. There are two variations of the leveller mounting system shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, one to be used with modules comprising tiles 18, and the other with modules using glass or plastic dividers.

(59) Referring first to FIG. 15, this is the levelling system to be used with modules having glass or plastic dividers extending down to floor level. This system includes a structural extrusion 90, which is generally an inverted U-shaped channel with a notch 92 to engage the lower edge of the glass or plastic divider, and a universal foot 100.

(60) Extrusion 90 and universal foot 100 are interconnected by means of dual threaded levellers 110, an example of which is shown in FIG. 14.

(61) Leveller 110 has three distinct sections, an upper section 112, a middle section 115 and a lower section 120. Upper section 112 is cylindrical in shape and is internally left or right hand threaded. A plate 113 is connected to the section's upper end for a permanent connection thereto. Middle section 115 is both internally and externally threaded. The external threads will match the direction of the internal threads on upper section 112 while the internal threads will be in the opposite direction to match the external threading of lower portion 120. A fixed middle nut 114 is disposed at the lower end of middle section 115. Nut 114 can be used to turn middle section 115 relative to the upper and lower sections of the leveller.

(62) As mentioned, the lower section 120 of the leveller is externally threaded and the threading will be in the opposite direction to the internal threading of upper section 112. In this way, each turn of nut 114 doubles the expansion or contraction of the leveller to halve the levelling time. The lower end of section 120 includes its own fixed adjustment nut 124 and an inverted V-shaped lower plate 125.

(63) FIG. 15 shows how leveller 110 is installed. Plate 113 aligns with channels 94 in extrusion 90 to be slidable along the length of the channel to any desired location. The V-shaped lower plate 125 aligns with and slides into grooves 101 in foot 100. Those levellers that fit at the end of a foot are slightly modified to include tabs 126 at the outer corners of plate 125 which prevent the plate from moving inwardly. When vertical end frames 12 or 17 are attached to extrusion 90, plate 113 is prevented from moving outwardly so that the leveller is held in its position at the very end of foot 100. Frames 12 or 17 are connected to extrusion 90 by means of screws that thread into one or more of circular slots 117 in the extrusion.

(64) If modules 20 are situated atop carpet, toothed carpet grippers 130 are inserted into slots 129 in foot 100. If the modules are installed on hard surfaces, nonskid grippers can be inserted instead. The grippers can be placed precisely where needed to bear the modules weight and can be easily moved, replaced or switched over as needed.

(65) FIG. 16 shows a leveller 110 installed on modules 20 and illustrates the installation of base trim 140 used to conceal the levellers 110 when they're not being adjusted. In this view, plate 113 is again slidingly received into channels formed in the module's lowermost extrusion and plate 125 is received into grooves 101 in foot 100. The base trim 140 includes baseboards 142 and snap pieces 144. Snap pieces 144 snap-fit onto foot 100 as shown with grooves 145 and 147 on the snap piece engaging flanges 108 and 109 on the foot. Each snap piece includes a longitudinally extending elevated hook 149 and a similarly longitudinally extending channel 150. Each baseboard includes a hook 143 to engage hook 149 on the snap piece, and a bead 153 that snap fits into channel 150 to retain the baseboards in a vertical position to provide a finished look. Because the baseboards are installed usually after the modules have been assembled together, the boards can span multiple modules for longer runs and fewer seams.

(66) Reference is now made to FIGS. 26 and 27. As illustrated, besides the bottom connection with the leveller (as described with relation to FIGS. 15 and 16 above), a ceiling connection is also preferred.

(67) FIG. 26 shows a ceiling connection for a solid wall, such as those described above having tile cladding. A ceiling track 2601 is affixed to the ceiling above the area for the desired wall. Each module includes two horizontal uppers 2610 abut thereto (on either side of the ceiling track), the horizontal upper including an upper flange 2612. A ceiling trim 2614 is affixed to upper flange 2612. Ceiling trim 2614 is flexible and allows variable spacing of the wall with the ceiling. Specifically, the trim 2614 will flex to allow the wall to move closer or further from the wall as required based on levelling needs.

(68) Horizontal upper 2610 further includes a .[.bead 64.]. .Iadd.protrusion (bead 64) .Iaddend.as described above to attach a tile .Iadd.(via the flexible arms of the illustrated tile clips) .Iaddend.to the horizontal upper. Further, recesses 2616 are used to attach horizontal uppers to frames 12 or 17.

(69) To affix a wall, an installer can first install ceiling track 2601 in the correct location. The wall is then created with levellers 110 in a lowermost position. The levellers 110 are then extended to level the wall and to further cause horizontal uppers 2610 to abut ceiling track 2601 on either side of ceiling track 2601, as illustrated in FIG. 26.

(70) Alternatively, if a divider such as a glass panel is being used, a one piece upper 2701 can be used, as illustrated in FIG. 27. The one piece upper 2701 comprises a flange 2712 to connect a ceiling trim 2714 to. Ceiling trim 2714 is preferably the same as ceiling trim 2614. Upper 2701 further includes a channel 2716 for receiving a divider.

(71) The present wall system 10 includes curved walls using curved aluminum stringers and extrusions and curved tiles 18. In conventional systems, curved walls are constructed of faceted panels rather than true, radii arcs. A curved wall is illustrated in FIG. 19.

(72) With reference to FIG. 17, a module 20 is shown in which a couple of tiles 18 have been replaced with an integrated media panel 190. The panel can be a Fresnel lens, a plasma screen, an LCD screen or a digital whiteboard. .Iadd.FIGS. 17A and 17B show how a vertical end frame of extended depth (12B) can be used to create more depth in the wall module itself. For example, FIG. 17B shows vertical end frames 12, 12a of comparatively different depth, which can in turn be used as appropriate for the given depth of media panel 190. Thus, the wall module of FIG. 1 contrasts with that 17A by having vertical end frames 12, 12a of different depths, wherein the module of FIG. 17A has greater depth than the module shown in FIG. 1. .Iaddend.Rear projection technology can be used to project images onto the Fresnel lens, or the digital whiteboard technology allows sketching, writing, layout or computer screen emulation. In the example shown, adjacent tiles 18 incorporate speakers 192 to provide sound. Tile 18 surrounding the screen area can be used for integrated storage areas.

(73) With reference to FIG. 18, there is shown schematically a module 20 with an integrated media center 200 suspended therein.

(74) Various connectors are also provided to allow the present reconfigurable wall system to form corners. Reference is now made to FIGS. 19, 20, 21 and 22.

(75) FIG. 19 illustrates a two-way rectilinear connector 1910. Connector 1910 includes a finished outer surface on sides 1912 and 1914. Further, flanges 23 are provided on sides 1916 and 1918. Flanges 23 can be used with zipper 25 to connect to end frames 12 or 17. An extension 1920 extends between sides 1916 and 1918 to form a finished corner once modules 20 are connected to these sides. Further, sides 1912 and 1914 include an elongate end 1922 for hiding zipper 25 and creating a finished surface.

(76) FIG. 20 is similar to FIG. 19, with the principle difference being the radial finished outer surface 2012 replacing sides 1912 and 1914. Otherwise similar reference numerals are used between FIGS. 19 and 20.

(77) FIG. 21 illustrates a three way connector for a “T” connection. Three modules 20 are connected to connector 2101. Connector 2101 includes a finished outer surface 2112. Flanges 23 are used to connect modules 20. Extensions 1920 provide a finished look between adjacent modules 20. Further, elongate end 1922 provides a finished look on the outside of the wall.

(78) FIG. 22 illustrates an alternative 90 degree connector. In this case, an extrusion 2201 is affixed to the end of a module 20. Two extrusions are connected using a connector 2312. Since connector 2312 is flexible, an angle greater than or less than 90 degrees is possible. In a preferred embodiment, the swing on the connector is approximately 15 degrees.

(79) The above-described embodiments of the present invention are meant to be illustrative of preferred embodiments and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention. Various modifications, which would be readily apparent to one skilled in the art, are intended to be within the scope of the present invention. The only limitations to the scope of the present invention are set forth in the following claims appended hereto.