Patent Prior Art

In a patent application, prior art can be cited in (at least) 2 different ways:

1. Informally, works can be cited in the patent specification (description of what it is being patented). In iterations patents we have gone to great lengths to describe the work upon which the patent is built. See, for example, the Terminology and References section of the patent on Matt's website.
2. Formally, prior art has to be included in the Information Disclosure Statement (IDS) associated with a patent application. This form lists all materials describing prior art relevant to the invention. It is this IDS that I am currently compiling for the application we filed in November of this year.

There are two tables below. The first includes patents cited in the patent which was issued in September. The second contains the additional patents and other materials we are including in the IDS for the application filed 11/07/01. Note that this most recent application also includes all prior art listed in the previoius applications.

(Patents assigned to Steelcase appear in both tables and are accented in RED.)

Jeff

4,224,769 - Ball et al., assigned to Hauserman Limited, Space divider system, issued September 30, 1980

Abstract - A space divider system which includes a plurality of posts and at least one beam assembly wherein the posts and beam constitute a raceway for receiving electrical and communication wiring for the transmission of electrical energy at work table height and wherein the posts and beam constitute a rigid structure for supporting various components such as lighting, acoustic panels, table and work surfaces, file storage bins and the like. Means are provided for interconnecting said posts and beam or beams in a manner facilitating the passage of wiring therebetween and addition means are provided within said posts for levelling a beam supported therebetween.

4,602,817 - Raftery, assigned to Steelcase, Modular furniture system, issued July 29, 1986

Abstract - The specification discloses a modular furniture system in which a modular furniture assembly is made of a pair of elongated base frames to which a support element is mounted to serve as a chair, seat, table, or the like. Front and rear shrouds are secured over the base frames to mask them from view and end panels are provided to cover either or both sides depending on whether the unit is to be ganged against other units. Upholstery covering is provided which utilizes a unique strip hook for securing to a cross piece on the base frames and which includes front and rear "button" flanges for slipping into a space between the shroud at the front or rear of the chair and the support member. The "button" flange or strip is then rotated so that it cannot be removed from the gap into which it was inserted. A unique toggle flange ganger clip is provided for ganging adjacent module units together.

4,771,583 - Ball et al., assigned to Hauserman, Inc., Space divider system, issued September 20, 1988

Abstract - An improved and more versatile space divider system for open office interiors includes as a major component a structure beam or spine supported at each end by vertically adjustable legs. Feet on the legs provide the required lateral stability to support or hang components such as work surfaces, filing systems and the like from the beam. Each beam includes two enclosed electrical ducts on the top thereof superjacent work surface height, such ducts being provided for power and communication wiring respectively, with the latter being above the former and laterally enlarged. The power wiring duct is prewired with outlets on both sides, while the communications wiring duct includes both lateral and top access. The legs have a smooth exterior surface yet permit beams to be connected thereto at a wide variety of angles. Enclosures or fillets for the beams and legs permit the ducts to pass through the legs fully enclosed. Each beam may be provided with a midpoint connection so that one beam may be connected to and extend normal to the other without a leg beneath the point of connection. Posts extend upwardly from the beam from which hanger bars are secured for supporting further accessories or acoustical panels. Accessories such as work surfaces may quickly hook onto a recessed hook channel in the beam, such accessories having a movable locking tab to secure the hook edge to the beam.

4,831,791 - Ball, assigned to Hauserman, Inc., Space divider system, issued May 23, 1989

Abstract - A space divider system utilizes horizontally extending beams mounted on height adjustable legs. The system includes main beams on which are two enclosed wire raceways at substantially work surface height. Also included are stabilizer beams which may be attached at their inner ends to any point along the main beam between the legs. The outer ends of the stabilizer beams are connected to a relatively short transverse beam which includes height adjustable posts or legs at each end. The outer end of the stabilizer beam may optionally be connected to the center of the transverse beam or to either leg or to a leg alone to form a T, I or L-shape configuration. The stabilizer beam and transverse beam have the same configuration and may support work surfaces or other components. Work surface such as table tops may also be supported from the legs at the ends of the transverse beams. The stabilizer beam is at a lower elevation than the main beam and when cantilever tops are employed the space between the tops above the beam may be provided with wire management trays. Also, posts may project upwardly from the stabilizer beam in turn supporting rails so that sound and visual pads may extend upwardly, and that upper components may also be supported.

5,094,174 - Grund et al., assigned to Steelcase, Modular furniture, issued March 10, 1992

Abstract - A freestanding modular furniture arrangement is provided to create workstations in open office plans, and other similar applications. Each furniture unit includes a worksurface with capped cutouts in the rear corners to mount overhead cabinets, privacy screens, and other furniture accessories. A mounting rail extends continuously along the rearward edge of each worksurface, and is capable of removably supporting therein a plurality of different amenities, such as bookshelves, CRT stands, fans, task lamps, etc., so as to permit a worker to personalize his or her own workstation. A removable stanchion permits certain convertible amenities to be supported either freestanding on the worksurface, or along the rear of the worksurface on the mounting rail. An L-shaped intermediate leg is available to support the worksurface in a cantilevered fashion to facilitate unfettered task chair movement along the forward edge of the worksurface.

5,103,741 - Grund et al., assigned to Steelcase, Modular furniture, issued April 14, 1992

Abstract - A freestanding modular furniture arrangement is provided to create workstations in both open and closed office plans, and other similar applications. Each furniture unit includes a worksurface with capped cutouts in the rear corners to mount overhead cabinets, privacy screens, and other furniture accessories. A mounting rail extends continuously along the rearward edge of each worksurface, and is capable of removably supporting therein a plurality of different amenities, such as bookshelves, CRT stands, fans, task lamps, etc., so as to permit a worker to personalize his or her own workstation. A removable stanchion permits certain convertible amenities to be supported either freestanding on the worksurface, or along the rear of the worksurface on the mounting rail. An L-shaped intermediate leg is available to support the worksurface in a cantilevered fashion to facilitate unfettered task chair movement along the forward edge of the worksurface.

5,220,871 - Grund et al., assigned to Steelcase, Modular furniture, issued June 22, 1993

Abstract - A freestanding modular furniture arrangement is provided to create workstations in open office plans, and other similar applications. Each furniture unit includes a worksurface with capped cutouts in the rear corners to mount overhead cabinets, privacy screens, and other furniture accessories. A mounting rail extends continuously along the rearward edge of each worksurface, and is capable of removably supporting therein a plurality of different amenities, such as bookshelves, CRT stands, fans, task lamps, etc., so as to permit a worker to personalize his or her own workstation. A removable stanchion permits certain convertible amenities to be supported either freestanding on the worksurface, or along the rear of the worksurface on the mounting rail. An L-shaped intermediate leg is available to support the worksurface in a cantilevered fashion to facilitate unfettered task chair movement along the forward edge of the worksurface.

5,239,460 * - LaRoche, assigned to AT&T, Arrangement for motivating telemarketing agents, issued August 24, 1993

Abstract - In an ACD system, motivational feedback information, such as the cumulative number of bonus points earned, is displayed on agents' terminal displays. The information is real-time, up-to-date, and substantially continuously displayed. It combines an objective, quantitative measure, such as the number of calls handled, and a subjective, qualitative measure, such as a quality factor representing a supervisor's evaluation of the agents' observed performance in handling calls. Illustratively, the per-call quantitative measure is multipled by an agent's presently-assigned qualitative measure to arrive at the per-call number of bonus points earned by the agent.

5,253,595 - Heidmann, assigned to Steelcase Strafor (S.A.), Modular system for office furniture, issued October 19, 1993

Abstract - A modular system for office furniture comprising a sufficient number of three types of modules, each corresponding to one or more of the following functions: a "working surface" function, a "support" function, a "storage" function, and an "electrical wire guiding function." The first module, a "table top module," provides a working surface which performs the "working surface" function. It comprises three sections, two end sections and a middle connecting section, and is supported by the second and third modules. The end sections of the first table top module each rest on a second "support" module which performs both the "support" and "storage functions." The third module is a column having upper and lower portions and performs both the "electrical wire guiding" and support functions." The upper portion contains the electrical wires of all hardware and appliances distributed on the table top module and the lower supports the middle section of the first table top module. The first table top module is held in place on the second and third modules by gravity. Two or more table top modules can be juxtaposed along two of any of their sides while resting on at least one common support module to form a variety of office furniture assemblies.

5,318,340 - Henry, assigned to Yorkshire Industries, Inc., Conference center, issued June 7, 1994 (this is hilarious!)

Abstract - A conference center is provided which includes a circular or polygonal arrangement of seating elements having a center. Each seating element faces outward from the center, and a device is provided for rotating the arrangement about a vertical axis through its center. This conference center provides a setting for group meetings which eliminates many of the distractions involved in face-to-face meetings.

5,403,232 - Helm et al., assigned to Steelcase, Utility distribution system for furniture, issued April 4, 1995

Abstract - A ventilation system is provided for communicating ventilation air through a modular furniture arrangement, such as open office partition panel systems or the like. The ventilation system includes an air source, and a collapsible duct connected to the air source. The collapsible duct can be routed through interior spaces in partition panels in a collapsed state to facilitate routing and installation. After installation, the collapsible duct can be inflated for use, at which time the collapsible duct inflates to a maximum size to minimize resistance to air flow. Multiple secondary openings distribute the ventilation air in the collapsible duct to various worksurfaces as desired. A pressure relief valve is attached to the collapsible duct to prevent over-pressurization of the collapsible duct.

5,442,788 - Bier, assigned to Xerox, Method and apparatus for interfacing a plurality of users to a plurality of applications on a common display device, issued August 15, 1995

Abstract - A multi-user multi-device system enables a plurality of users to control a single screen. Each user has one or more input devices, which can be used to control one or more stored applications. At any time, the system produces a consistent view of all applications on the single screen. The input from each user produces a response customized to the preferences of that user. Each user can inform the system of which devices that user is using. Inputs to the system initiate the building of Event Records that are queued and then directed to specific applications. The screen is updated, and the coordinates of child applications are determined, only during pauses in the operations of all applications.

5,486,042 - Heisler et al., assigned to Steelcase, Furniture arrangement, issued January 23, 1996

Abstract - A furniture unit includes a worksurface, a supporting base formed by a supporting pedestal and/or a supporting end panel, and a pair of rails connected to the underside of the worksurface reinforcing the worksurface and acting as a standoff between the worksurface and the supporting base, the rails including apertures spaced longitudinally along their length. A bracket is provided including an elongate bayonet-like leg for releasably engaging the apertures in the rail and further includes an accessory supporting end that extends laterally of a worksurface edge. A plurality of accessory units are selectively mounted to the bracket in a position spaced above the worksurface, thus allowing a user to select and position one or more of the accessory units along the edge of the worksurface for optimal use and efficiency of the furniture unit.

5,511,348 # - Cornell et al, assigned to Steelcase, Furniture system, issued April 30, 1996

Abstract - A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.

5,530,435 - Toms et al., assigned to Steelcase, Utility distribution system for modular furniture and the like, issued June 25, 1996

Abstract - A 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.

5,587,935 - Brooks et al., assigned to IBM, Integrated software development system including group decision support subsystem, application development subsystem, and bridge subsystem therebetween, issued December 24, 1996

Abstract - Disclosed is an integrated system for creating a process model and writing software based on the process model. The integrated system includes three subsystems, a group decision support subsystem, an applications development subsystem, and a bridge subsystem. The group decision support subsystem is used for creating and ordering a process model according to a protocol. The application development subsystem is used for writing software based on the output of the group decision support subsystem. The bridge sub-system converts the output of the group decision support subsystem to compatible input of the application development subsystem.

5,590,360 - Edwards, assigned to IBM, Apparatus and method for gathering and entering data requirements from multiple users in the building of process models and data models, issued December 31, 1996

Abstract - A computer-based apparatus and method for gathering Information for data model and Process model development includes a plurality of terminals on a local area network at which multiple users enter Information in a structured manner in response to an ordered sequence of screens displayed for a given project; a centralized database for receiving the Information from the multiple users; and a bridge program for transforming the group-entered Information stored in the database into a format that a computer-based information engineering tool can create into a model. An analyst workstation is included to enable only an analyst to edit gathered Information in response to comments from users and provide certain consensus inputs.

5,628,257 - Conner et al., assigned to Steelcase, Furniture worksurface unit and method, issued May 13, 1997

Abstract - A furniture worksurface unit for desks, tables, computer supports, etc. has a unique modular construction, comprising a top assembly with a skeleton-like top frame and a worksurface skin mounted on the upper side thereof. Leg frames are attached to the opposite ends of the top frame, and support the worksurface unit freestanding on a floor surface. Inner and outer leg covers enclose the leg frames, and underbelly covers are provided to enclose any exposed portions of the lower side of the top frame to facilitate manufacturing the worksurface unit in different widths from common parts, and provide aesthetic flexibility. Removable edges are mounted on the sides of the top frame, and are provided in assorted shapes and sizes to construct various top configurations.

5,630,649 - Heidmann et al., assigned to Steelcase, Modular chair construction and method of assembly, issued May 20, 1997

Abstract - A chair construction and method for building a chair having selected features are provided. The construction includes a plurality of interchangeable different components including different base assemblies, back assemblies, seats, arms, and chair controls that can be selected to provide different features on a "customized" chair. The different chair controls are constructed from a selected one of a plurality of interchangeable energy modules and a selected one of a plurality of interchangeable seat support modules. All components include standardized connections for engaging the related components, and further include various mechanisms and designs so that by selecting particular components, a chair having various features and appearances can be provided. For example, the plurality of interchangeable seat support modules include a non-adjustable seat support module, a seat-angle-adjustable seat support module, and a seat-depth-adjustable seat support module. Also, the plurality of interchangeable chair control modules include a non-lockable energy module, a back lockable energy module, and a multi-position backstop energy module, each connectable to a selected one of the aforementioned seat support modules. The modularity of these components facilitates assembly including on-site assembly, repair, and post-assembly upgrading of the chair. Further, the seat support is connected by removable pivot pins to allow assembly, retrofit and/or modification in the field. The tension adjustment mechanism, the seat height actuator mechanism, and the pivot connections are constructed for durability, performance, assembleability, compactness of design, and to minimize the number of and complexity of parts. The method includes selecting modules from a menu of interconnectable/interchangeable modules to construct a chair control, and further selecting modules from a menu of interchangeable components to construct a chair having selected features.

5,651,219 # - Baloga et al., assigned to Steelcase, Dynamic workspace module, issued July 29, 1997

Abstract - A dynamic workspace module is provided for open plan spaces, and the like, and includes a compact footprint, comprising a freestanding framework supporting a three-sided partition to form an interior workspace and a portal opening for user ingress and egress. A door partition shaped to selectively close the portal opening is movably mounted on the framework. The door partition preferably has an arcuate plan shape, and is positioned adjacent one side of the portal opening, such that shifting the door partition from the fully open position to the fully closed position both increases the amount of the interior space in the workspace module, and alters the plan shape thereof for improved freedom of user movement, while alleviating any sense of user claustrophobia.

5,662,478 - Smith, Jr., Method for training facilitator and method for teaching group of people in the use of an expeditionary map to practice a process for generating ideas, issued September 2, 1997

Abstract - A map which illustrates the expeditionary process is used as a tool in creative thinking sessions. When groups of people are assembled to execute a creative problem solving session, one of the primary sources of discord is due to a lack of understanding by the members of the group of their current position in the flow of the process. The map reduces this discord by providing a tool which enables the members of the group to estimate their present position in the flow of the process, because the process of generating problem solving ideas is very analogous to the expeditionary process.

5,664,093 * - Barnett et al., assigned to GE, System and method for managing faults in a distributed system, issued September 2, 1997

Abstract - A system and method for managing faults in a distributed system. The fault management system includes a configuration manager that maintains configuration information of components used in the distributed system. A plurality of measurement agents obtain performance information from the components in the distributed system. A diagnostic system has a plurality of rules written according to the configuration information stored therein. The diagnostic system is coupled to the configuration manager and each of the plurality of measurement agents and identifies faults occurring in the distributed system and provides solutions for correcting the faults The diagnostic system receives the configuration information from the configuration manager and the performance information from the plurality of measurement agents and uses the configuration and performance information with the plurality of rules to identify faults and provide solutions for the faults.

5,664,183 - Cirulli et al., assigned to IBM, Application of groupware to ISO 9000 registration via facilitated work sessions, issued September 2, 1997

Abstract - A network application for automatically formatting and printing documents to be used as training and planning manuals to be used by organizational personnel in preparation for an ISO 9000 audit. The outputted documents can also be educational manuals for dispersing among organizational personnel common information for integrated strategic planning in preparation for the ISO 9000 audit. Facilitated collaborative work sessions among work groups inputting and sharing comments and ideas provide starting data to the network application.

5,666,887 - Grabowski et al., assigned to Steelcase, Desk system, issued September 16, 1997

Abstract - A nested table system which can be reconfigured as desired to accommodate work space requirements includes a stationary table and a movable table having legs supported on casters to facilitate repositioning thereof. The movable table has a worksurface which has dimensions, and which is supported at an elevation, which allows at least a portion of the worksurface of the movable table to be positioned underneath the worksurface of the stationary table. The nested table systems includes one or more features which helps prevent damage to the edges of the worksurface of the movable table when it is moved underneath or adjacent to the stationary table. Such features include a bumper molding which projects outwardly from the edges of the worksurface of the moveable table, arcuate side edges on the moveable table which in combination with a rearwall extending downwardly from a rear edge of the worksurface of the stationary table prevents the corners of the worksurface of the movable table from contacting rear legs of the stationary table, and a plurality of cable management channels which are preferably comprised of an energy absorbing, resiliently deformable polymeric material and which acts as bumpers.

5,675,949 # - Forslund et al., assigned to Steelcase, Utility distribution system for open office plans and the like, issued October 14, 1997

Abstract - A utility distribution system is provided for open office plans and other similar settings, and includes a prefabricated floor construction designed to be supported directly on a building floor. The floor construction has a hollow interior which defines at least one raceway to route utility conduits therethrough, and a floor surface on which workstations can be positioned. The utility distribution system also includes at least two utility posts, each of which has a foot which mounts to the floor construction to support the utility posts in a generally upstanding orientation. A utility beam extends generally horizontally between the two utility posts, and is supported thereby. The utility beam has at least one raceway extending longitudinally therealong, with opposite end portions communicating with the utility channels in the utility posts to route utilities therebetween.

5,684,469 # - Toms et al., assigned to Steelcase, Method of configuring a furniture utility distribution system, issued November 4, 1997

Abstract - A 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.

5,732,200 - Becker et al., assigned to IBM, Integration of groupware with quality function deployment methodology via facilitated work sessions, issued March 24, 1998

Abstract - A network application for automatically formatting and printing documents to be used as planning manuals by company personnel to produce quality products designed to satisfy customer preferences. Output documents can also be used as educational manuals and for dispersing among organizational personnel common information for integrated strategic planning and decision making for engineering and marketing teams. Facilitated collaborative work sessions among work groups inputting and sharing comments and ideas provide starting data to the network application.

5,748,954 # - Mauldin, assigned to Carnegie Mellon University, Method for searching a queued and ranked constructed catalog of files stored on a network, issued May 5, 1998

Abstract - A method of constructing a catalog of files stored on a network comprised of a plurality of interconnected computers each having a plurality of files stored thereon. The method is accomplished by establishing a queue containing at least one address representative of a file stored on one of the interconnected computers, ranking each address in the queue according to the popularity of the file presented by the address, downloading the file corresponding to the address in the queue having the highest ranking, processing the downloaded file to generate certain information about the downloaded file for the catalog, adding to the queue any addresses found in the downloaded file, and determining the popularity of file represented by the addresses in the queue according to how often a file is referenced by a computer other than the computer on which the file is stored.

(note: this patent is cited in the specification, but not listed as a reference cited on page 1 of our patent. I'm not sure why.)

5,765,038 - Flannery et al., assigned to IBM, Integration of groupware with the integrated quality control methodology via facilitated work sessions, issued June 9, 1998

Abstract - A network application for automatically formatting and printing documents to be used as planning manuals to be used by company personnel for improving quality control. The outputted documents can also be educational manuals for dispersing among organizational personnel common information for integrated strategic planning for quality control improvement. Facilitated collaborative work sessions among work groups inputting and sharing comments and ideas provide starting data to the network application.

5,790,847 - Fisk et al., assigned to IBM, Integration of groupware with activity based management via facilitated work sessions, issued August 4, 1998

Abstract - A network application for automatically formatting and printing documents to be used as product planning manuals organizational personnel in determining product cost based on activities performed to produce the product. Output documents can also be dispersed among organizational personnel to provide common information for integrated strategic planning. Facilitated collaborative work sessions among work groups inputting and sharing comments and ideas provide starting data to the network application.

5,802,506 - Hutchison, Adaptive autonomous agent with verbal learning, issued September 1, 1998

Abstract - The invention is an autonomous adaptive agent which can learn verbal as well as nonverbal behavior. The primary object of the system is to optimize a primary value function over time through continuously learning how to behave in an environment (which may be physical or electronic). Inputs may include verbal advice or information from sources of varying reliability as well as direct or preprocessed environmental inputs. Desired agent behavior may include motor actions and verbal behavior which may constitute a system output and which may also function "internally" to guide external actions. A further aspect of the invention is an efficient "training" process by which the agent can be taught to utilize verbal advice and information along with environmental inputs.

5,874,955 - Rogowitz et al., assigned to IBM, Interactive rule based system with selection feedback that parameterizes rules to constrain choices for multiple operations, issued February 23, 1999

Abstract - A rule based system and method interacts with a user to provide the user a series of interim results. The system has a set of one or more operations. Each of these operations in turn has a set of one or more choices, called a choice set, associated with an operation. Rule based intelligence is applied to the operations set and/or one or more operation choice set by a set of rules associated with its respective operation and/or choice set. When one or more rules in a rule set are applied to the operation set, an offered operation set is created which is a subset of the operation set. Only the operations in the offered operation set are offered to the user. When one or more rules in a rule set are applied to a choice set, an offered choice set is created which is a subset of the choice set. Only those operation choices in the offered choice set are offered to the user. The operations (operation choices) that are in the offered operation set (offered choice set) are those that conform to the constraints of the rules that are applied. The user selects operations (operation choices) from the offered operation set (offered choice set). Information about the user selections feeds back to the rules and is used to constrain the next offered operations and operation choices. The user is also permitted to change rules, rule specific metadata, and rule specific metadata algorithms as well as the data in the system. Interacting with the system this way, the user preference, knowledge, and judgment is incorporated in each of a series of interim results and is used to further develop the next interim result in the series of iterations.

6,041,166 * - Hart et al., assigned to 3Com, Virtual network architecture for connectionless LAN backbone, issued March 21, 2000

Abstract - Network traffic management is achieved based on automatically setting up a plurality of virtual networks (VNETs) within a single large virtual LAN. Multicast/broadcast traffic is confined to the VNET of the source, without imposing constraints on layer two addressing within the virtual LAN. VNETs are domains of users of a virtual LAN which include members of logical networks defined at layer three or higher. One method includes transferring a multi-destination packet originating from a particular node in the virtual LAN by tunnelling across a connectionless backbone network to a virtual net server. The virtual net server translates the multi-destination packet to a plurality of tunneled messages identifying nodes authorized to receive multi-destination packets from members of the particular VNET which originated the packet. The tunneled messages are then forwarded from the virtual net server to the authorized nodes. This way, multi-destination packets, such as advertisement or discovery packets, are confined to a single VNET. By confining the multi-destination packets to a single VNET, unicast packets generated within the virtual LAN are then also naturally confined to that VNET.

* Cited by the examiner.
# Cited in patent specification.

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5,659,666 - Thaler, Device for the autonomous generation of useful information , issued August 19, 1997

Abstract - A device for simulating human creativity employing a neural network trained to produce input-output maps within some predetermined knowledge domain, an apparatus for subjecting the neural network to perturbations that produce changes in the predetermined knowledge domain, the neural network having an optional output for feeding the outputs of the neural network to a second neural network that evaluates and selects outputs based on training within the second neural network. The device may also include a reciprocal feed back connection from the output of the second neural network to the first neural network to further influence and change what takes place in the aforesaid neural network.

5,852,816- Thaler, Neural network based database scanning system, issued December 22, 1998

Abstract - Constructing and simulating artificial neural networks and components thereof within a spreadsheet environment results in user friendly neural networks which do not require algorithmic based software in order to train or operate. Such neural networks can be easily cascaded to form complex neural networks and neural network systems, including neural networks capable of self-organizing so as to self-train within a spreadsheet, neural networks which train simultaneously within a spreadsheet, and neural networks capable of autonomously moving, monitoring, analyzing, and altering data within a spreadsheet. Neural networks can also be cascaded together in self training neural network form to achieve a device prototyping system.

6,018,727 - Thaler, Device for the autonomous generation of useful information, issued January 25, 2000

Abstract - A device for generating useful information employing a first neural network trained to produce input-output maps within a predetermined initial knowledge domain, an apparatus for subjecting the neural network to perturbations which may produce changes in the predetermined knowledge domain, the neural network having an optional output for feeding the outputs of the first neural network to a second neural network that evaluates the outputs based on training within the second neural network. The device may also include a reciprocal feed back connection from the output of the second neural network to the first neural network to further influence and change what takes place in the aforesaid neural network.

6,115,701 - Thaler, Neural network-based target seeking system, issued September 5, 2000

Abstract - A system and process for readily determining, for a specified knowledge domain in a given field of endeavor, perturbations applicable to an artificial neural network embodying such a specified knowledge domain that will produce a desired output, comprising a first, previously trained, artificial neural network containing training in some problem domain, which neural network is responsive to the presentment of a set of data inputs at the input portion thereof to produce a set of data outputs at the output portion thereof, a monitoring portion which constantly monitors the outputs of the first neural network to identify the desired outputs, and a network perturbation portion for effecting the application of perturbations, either externally or internally, to the first neural network to thereby effect changes in the output thereof. The perturbations may be effected by any number of different means, including by, but not limited to, presentment of new, varied data inputs, alteration or fixed or previously applied data inputs, such as by the introduction of noise to the inputs, relaxation or degradation of the network, and so forth, either randomly or systematically, and may be accomplished autonomously or upon specific external authorization or control. Identification of a desired output establishes an input/perturbation/output mapping relationship from which data inputs (external perturbations) and/or knowledge domain alterations (internal perturbations) that produce the desired output can be determined. The system and process can be employed in some instances and in some embodiments as a target seeking system for use with various design or problem solving applications, and can, in some embodiments, comprise or be comprised of a system and process for autonomously producing and identifying desirable design concepts through utilization of such a target seeking system.

5,809,708 - Greer et al., assigned to Steelcase, Integrated prefabricated furniture system for fitting-out open plan building space, issued September 22, 1998

Abstract - An integrated prefabricated furniture is provided for finishing or fitting-out open plan building spaces, such as for offices, classrooms, hotels/motels, conference centers, medical treatment facilities, etc. A demountable architectural wall system covers the fixed walls of the building room, a portable partition wall system defines the interior space into individual work settings, and a demountable movable wall system forms custom width partitions. The three wall systems are completely compatible and fully integrated in both function and appearance, and provide similar utility raceways at common heights, as well as interchangeable cover panels. A modular column cover system selectively covers the support columns in the building room, and provides vertical utility routing and storage that integrates with the raceways in the wall systems. Pre-assembled facades, the freestanding storage case system, a space frame system, a prefabricated low raised floor construction, a modular overhead link head system, and accessories are disclosed and are designed to be used anywhere throughout the furniture system, and to serve to personalize the various individual work settings to accommodate specific users and tasks. Advantageously, the furniture system is readily reconfigurable.

5,907,285 - Toms et al., assigned to Steelcase, Furniture unit having a modular communication network, issued May 25, 1999

Abstract - A 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.

5,942,984 - Toms et al., assigned to Steelcase, Communications network for identifying the location of articles relative to a floor plan, issued August 24, 1999

Abstract - A 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.

5,947,569 - Rheault et al., assigned to Steelcase, Freestanding furniture defining office with adjustable footprint, issued September 7, 1999

Abstract - A telescopingly adjustable furniture article is provided for filling an office space where the footprint dimensions of the office space are not known ahead of time or are likely to be periodically changed to different sizes. The furniture article includes a desk having a work surface with ends, a support for supporting one of the ends, and a foot on the other end. A storage unit or cabinet having a top is provided. The foot adjustably rests on the top so that the top supports the other end of the work surface, but so that the furniture unit is horizontally adjustable to different locations partially under the work surface. A Z-bracket interconnects the work surface to the top of the cabinet to secure the relationship of the cabinet and the desk. The furniture article can advantageously be used by itself, in combination with a building wall or demountable architectural wall, or in combination with a partition system to define a plurality of non-uniformly dimensioned offices. The furniture article is further adjustable to optimize use of space in the offices, but while staying within the dimensions of the office space footprints.

6,002,855 - Ladner et al., assigned to Steelcase, 3-D spatial GUI for querying and manipulating an RDMS for order-entry applications, issued December 14, 1999

Abstract - A furniture specification system, designed for relatively large scale office furniture projects, having three basic components: 1) means for generating a furniture specification which contains data specifying a plurality of the available furniture products; 2) means for generating a visual display of the furniture products specified by the furniture specification on a display device; and 3) means for generating a cost specification based upon the furniture specification. Since both the visual display of the furniture products and the cost specification are generated from the same furniture specification, the possibility of discrepancies between the visual display and the cost specification is eliminated. The means for generating the furniture specification allows the user to add or delete individual products and to add product clusters to the furniture specification. After the products are selected, the user may select product finishes, such as wood grain finishes, furniture options, product keying information, and destination tags. After the project is specified, a quotation or purchase order may be automatically generated from the furniture specification.

6,003,275 - Cornell et al., assigned to Steelcase, Furniture system, issued December 21, 1999

Abstract - A furniture system is particularly adapted to support group activities in open plans, and the like. A plurality of columns support an overhead framework on the floor of a building in a freestanding fashion at a predetermined elevation, generally above average user height. A plurality of individual panels are provided, wherein each panel is constructed to permit easy, manual, bodily translation of the same by an adult user. A hanger arrangement is associated with the overhead framework, and cooperates with connectors on the panels to detachably suspend the panels at various locations along the overhead framework. The panels are manually reconfigurable between many different arrangements to efficiently and effectively support different group activities. Preferably, the panels are capable of providing a partitioning function to visually divide at least a portion of the workspace, and/or a display function to facilitate group communications.

6,128,873 - Shipman et al., assigned to Steelcase, Integrated prefabricated furniture system for fitting-out open plan building space, issued October 10, 2000

Abstract - An integrated prefabricated furniture system is provided for fitting-out a building space of the type having a generally open plan interior defined by fixed walls. The furniture system includes a wall-covering frame, freestanding partition frames, and floor-to-ceiling frames that can be interconnected to subdivide the building space. The wall-covering frame is constructed to be positioned against and selectively cover portions of the fixed walls, and the portable partition system and the floor-to-ceiling frames are constructed to spatially divide the building space into a plurality of work areas, with at least one of the freestanding partition frames having an end abutted against the wall-covering frame. A plurality of cover panels are removably attached to the wall-covering frame and to the freestanding partition frames for covering the wall-covering frame, the freestanding partition frames, and the floor-to-ceiling frames. The cover panels include upper and lower cover panels that have bottom and top horizontal edges, respectively, that are spaced vertically apart to define a belt-high utility zone therebetween. The belt-high utility zone has a relatively narrow vertical dimension and extends continuously horizontally along the wall-covering frame and the freestanding partition frames at a common worksurface height to present a uniform horizontal appearance datum throughout the building space. Some of the upper cover panels on the wall-covering frame and on the freestanding partition frames have an identical size and shape, so that the identical upper cover panels can be selectively interchanged between the wall-covering frame and the freestanding partition frames.

6,133,845 - Toms et al., assigned to Steelcase, Furniture unit having a modular communication network, issued October 17, 2000

Abstract - A 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.

6,211,796 - Toms et al., assigned to Steelcase, Communications network for identifying the location of articles relative to a floor plan, issued April 3, 2001

Abstract - A 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.

6,250,020 - Shipman, assigned to Steelcase, Prefabricated furniture system, issued June 26, 2001

Abstract - A prefabricated furniture system including an overhead framework having utility conduits and supporting a plurality of rigid infill panels. The framework extends over the floor of a building space, and has a plurality of posts, and a plurality of beams, at least some of which are supported at a predetermined elevation above an average user height to define an open, three-dimensional gridwork which spatially partitions the associated portion of the building space. The utility conduits extend along the posts and the beams to provide access to utilities throughout the gridwork. The rigid infill panels are shaped for positioning between the beams and the floor of the building in side-by-side juxtaposition. The infill panels include rigid marginal frames, each having a generally rectangular front elevational shape, an interior marginal edge with an interior channel opening toward the interior of the associated one of the frames, and an exterior marginal edge with an exterior channel opening outwardly. A first one of the infill panels includes a rigid center panel mounted in the interior channel of the associated one of the frames to define a framed infill panel. A second one of the infill panels includes at least one flexible cover panel having marginal edges thereof received and retained in the exterior channel of the associated one of the frames, such that the cover panel wraps around the associated frame to define a wrapped infill panel, whereby the framed and wrapped infill panel can be installed at various locations throughout the gridwork.

6,276,102 - Shipman et al., assigned to Steelcase, Integrated prefabricated furniture system for fitting-out open plan building space, issued August 21, 2001

Abstract - An integrated prefabricated furniture system is provided for fitting-out a building space of the type having a generally open plan interior defined by fixed walls. The furniture system includes a wall-covering frame, freestanding partition frames, and floor-to-ceiling frames that can be interconnected to subdivide the building space. The wall-covering frame is constructed to be positioned against and selectively cover portions of the fixed walls, and the portable partition system and the floor-to-ceiling frames are constructed to spatially divide the building space into a plurality of work areas, with at least one of the freestanding partition frames having an end abutted against the wall-covering frame. A plurality of cover panels are removably attached to the wall-covering frame and to the freestanding partition frames for covering the wall-covering frame, the freestanding partition frames, and the floor-to-ceiling frames. The cover panels include upper and lower cover panels that have bottom and top horizontal edges, respectively, that are spaced vertically apart to define a belt-high utility zone therebetween. The belt-high utility zone has a relatively narrow vertical dimension and extends continuously horizontally along the wall-covering frame and the freestanding partition frames at a common worksurface height to present a uniform horizontal appearance datum throughout the building space. Some of the upper cover panels on the wall-covering frame and on the freestanding partition frames have an identical size and shape, so that the identical upper cover panels can be selectively interchanged between the wall-covering frame and the freestanding partition frames. A horizontal row of slots is provided on one or more of the horizontal structural frame members of the wall-covering frame, the freestanding partition frame, or the floor-to-ceiling frame to provide attachment sites for connection to the frames.

6,298,047 - Steffes et al., assigned to Steelcase, Method and apparatus for establishing a data link between a portable data communications device and an interface circuit, issued October 2, 2001

Abstract - A wireless data communication system for establishing a data link between a portable communication device and an interface circuit, such as an interface circuit to a LAN, includes a plurality of transceivers in communication with a control circuit. Each of the transceivers is configured to transmit and receive wireless signals within a defined transceiver space. The plurality of transceiver spaces combine to define a communication space. The control circuit detects the presence of a wireless signal within the communications space by sequentially scanning the transceivers to determine which transceiver is receiving the signal. Once the signal is detected, the control circuit automatically locks onto the transceiver receiving the signal, thereby enabling establishment of a wireless data link between the communication device and the interface circuit. The control circuit continues to monitor the established data link to determine whether data communications are disrupted. Upon detection of a disruption, the control circuit automatically attempts to retain the data link by re-initiating the scanning sequence.