Conference pod

Abstract

The invention relates to a conference pod (100) designed for private meetings, phone calls, or video conferences. The pod features a structural enclosure with a ceiling, walls (130), and a floor (180), including a door (141) for access. A key aspect is the height-adjustable shielding plate (110) mounted on a designated wall (190), which supports a desk top surface (120). This configuration allows ergonomic adjustment of the working position for the user, enhancing comfort and safety by preventing access to potentially hazardous components. The pod may include acoustic treatment for soundproofing, a ventilation system (150) for air quality, and integrated lighting and electrical connections for convenience. The shielding plate (110) can also support a computer display, ensuring optimal viewing angles. This design offers flexibility, safety, and enhanced functionality for users in a compact, enclosed space.

Description

Field of the Invention

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of workspace design and construction, modular office solutions, or conference room design and fabrication. This field involves the planning, design, and construction of specialized spaces such as conference pods, which are self-contained units designed for meetings, presentations, and collaborative work. Professionals in this area combine expertise in architecture, interior design, acoustics, ergonomics, and technology integration to create functional and aesthetically pleasing environments.Background of the Invention

[0002] Conference pods typically are allowed to fill a limited space in an office with the purpose to optimize the number of office workers that simultaneously can conference under good conditions. These conditions may be defined as, amongst others, to have a sufficiently insulated environment from ambient sound, to offer privacy and a controlled environment for conducting meetings, video conferences, and other collaborative activities. The need for such pods has increased with the rise of remote work and the demand for flexible office spaces.

[0003] One of the primary considerations in the design of conference pods is ergonomics, which ensures that users can maintain a comfortable and healthy posture during extended periods of use. Various adaptations have been made to conference pods to achieve this goal.

[0004] Firstly, the seating arrangements within the pods are designed to support the natural curvature of the spine. Ergonomic chairs with adjustable height, lumbar support, and armrests are commonly used. These chairs can be customized to fit the individual needs of each user, reducing the risk of musculoskeletal disorders. Standing working positions are also often supported or even encouraged.

[0005] Secondly, the work surfaces within the pods are adjustable in height. This allows users to alternate between sitting and standing positions, promoting better circulation and reducing the strain on the lower back. Height-adjustable desks are often equipped with easy-to-use mechanisms, such as electric motors or manual cranks, to facilitate smooth transitions.

[0006] Thirdly, the layout of the conference pods is designed to minimize physical strain. Monitors and other display devices are positioned at eye level to prevent neck strain. Additionally, the placement of input devices, such as keyboards and mice, is optimized to ensure that users can maintain a neutral wrist position, reducing the risk of repetitive strain injuries.

[0007] Furthermore, the pods are equipped with adequate lighting to reduce eye strain. Adjustable lighting systems allow users to control the intensity and direction of light, creating a comfortable visual environment.

[0008] Lastly, the acoustic properties of the pods are designed to enhance auditory comfort. Sound-absorbing materials and noise-cancelling technologies are used to create a quiet environment, free from external distractions. This not only improves concentration but also reduces the need for users to strain their voices during conversations.

[0009] In summary, conference pods may be adapted in various ways to provide an ergonomic user position. These adaptations may include ergonomic seating, adjustable work surfaces, optimized layout, adequate lighting, and enhanced acoustic properties. All of these features and functions need to be integrated in the small volume of the pod in order to attempt optimising the overall ergonomic experience. The tight integration of all the features however often results in a lot of wiring and mechanical connections that may be visible to or directly accessible by the occupant of the pod. The presence of user accessible electrical wiring or mechanical components may not be optically very appealing from a design point of view, but moreover may cause a risk for harming to the occupant of the pod. The user may for instance get in contact with the moving parts that position the work surface at the desired height, or may be harmed by unshielded electrical connections that power the different electrical features of the pod. Also may the reliability of the pod's functionality be compromised when connectors may be inadvertently disconnected while being accessible.

[0010] Shielding the electrical and mechanical moving parts from the user has therefore always been a concern when integrating many of such parts in the confined space of a conference pod. Preventing the risks that arise from the integration of the many components in a confined space is considered to be a technical advantage.Summary of the Invention

[0011] To this aim, according to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a conference pod comprising a structural enclosure defining an interior space, the structural enclosure comprising a ceiling, a plurality of walls extending between the floor and the ceiling, wherein at least one of the walls includes a door for accessing the interior space, a floor comprising a designated work area for at least one person assuming a working position in the pod, this working position facing a designated wall of the plurality of walls, a shielding plate mounted against the designated wall by a height adjustable mounting mechanism for positioning the shielding plate at various heights, said shielding plate having a sufficient width to cover any functional elements installed behind said shielding plate, a desk top surface mounted to the shielding plate, wherein the desk top surface is adapted to the working position of said at least one person by adjusting the position of said shielding plate.

[0012] A conference pod of the invention has to be considered as a small, enclosed space designed for private meetings, phone calls, or video conferences. Such a pod has to be understood as a confined volume that is defined by an interior space that is structurally enclosed by a plurality of walls, a floor and a ceiling, and by at least one door providing access to the interior of the pod. A conference pod typically provides sufficient conferencing space for at least one person, but some varieties may provide space for more than one person. The structural enclosure is conceived as a closed cabin that shields the enclosed space acoustically, and often partially or entirely visually, from the environment where the enclosure is installed.

[0013] The interior layout comprises a designated work area for at least one person. The designated work area is the space in the pod where the occupant or user of the pod can assume his working position. This working position can be for instance a standing position, a seated position or a leaning position. The designated work area is the floor space within the pod that is designated and available for the user to either stand, or put a chair, stool or other seating arrangement for assuming a seated working position. The designated work area is therefore nothing more than a portion of free floor space that is available for a user to stand on or to put in a chair. The working position of the user is oriented towards the desk top surface, and faces the designated wall. Alternatively, the back wall opposing the designated wall may be configured or shaped to support a leaning position of the user, where a user is partially supported by the shape of the back wall. Such a back wall is not uniformly vertical, but has a receded portion against which for instance a posterior body part or upper limbs of the user may rest or lean. Other shapes of the back wall may be considered to support a leaning position of the user.

[0014] Some pods may have fixed seating arrangements for each occupant. These fixed seating arrangements are preferably configured against the back wall of the pod, the back wall is positioned opposite the designated wall. The seating arrangement can be configured as individual seats that can be adjusted in height or as a single bench to accommodate the occupants of the pod. The seating arrangements may for instance also be foldable such that both a seated and standing position can be assumed by the user. The designated wall is positioned directly opposite the seating arrangement and is configured to mount the shielding plate. The shielding plate preferably covers the entire width of the designated wall, leaving just enough space for it to move up and down without being obstructed by the lateral walls.

[0015] The designated wall is equipped with a mounting mechanism to support and position the shielding plate in a parallel orientation close to the surface of the designated wall. The mechanism is configured to support a stable vertical movement of the shielding plate up and down along the designated wall. The shielding plate is positioned close to the surface of the designated wall, a distance that is just sufficient to avoid contact with any mechanical or electrical parts that are shielded behind the shielding plate and which allows smooth and unimpeded movement of the shielding plate.

[0016] The shielding plate is configured to cover a portion of the designated wall preferably along its entire width. The shielding plate therefore functions as a cover for partially covering the designated wall and any technical accommodations that may be attached to it. In this respect the shielding plate may cover the so-called shielded elements which may comprise the mounting mechanism comprising its rail system and other mechanical and electrical parts, and which may comprise any electrical wiring that may be attached to or integrated into the designated wall. The electrical wiring may be connected to sockets or appliances that are integrated into or onto the shielding plate. The electrical wiring may also be connected to these appliances by means of connectors or plugs. Plugs and connectors may have the disadvantage that they are easy to disconnect. Because of the vertical movement of the shielding plate, the electrical wiring may be required to have some freedom to move behind the shielding plate making it susceptible to wear and tear. Covering these sensitive components by the shielding plate ensures proper shielding of the components from the occupants of the conference pod, making the pod safer and more reliable in use.

[0017] Covering most of the width of the designated wall by the shielding plate ensures the above mentioned shielded elements cannot be accessed at all by the user. The width of the shielding plate therefore substantially matches the width of the designated wall, leaving no space to insert objects or accessing the surface of the designated wall via the free space that is left between the lateral edges of the shielding plate and the lateral walls of the pod bordering the designated wall. The free space that is left between the lateral edges of the shielding plate and the lateral walls of the pod bordering the designated wall is therefore preferably less than 2 centimetres, more preferably less than 1 centimetre and even more preferably less than 5 millimetres.

[0018] In case that the width of the shielding plate is reduced, more space alongside the shielding plate is left for accessing the shielded elements which consequently increases the risk for accessing the shielded elements. In this case, the electrical wiring may for instance be inadvertently touched or obstructed by a user during the movement of the shielding plate, which may lead to an undeliberate disconnection of a connector or plug. This can easily lead to a malfunction of one of the installed appliances in the pod. It is therefore preferable that the shielding plate substantially covers the width of the designated wall leaving just enough space for it to move up and down without being obstructed by the lateral walls.

[0019] A desk top surface is mounted on the front side of the shielding plate and is oriented towards the working position. The designated work area obviously allows comfortable access to the desk top surface when the user is in his working position. The desk top surface is therefore accessible by the user of the pod when he is in his working position. Because the shielding plate is configured to be positioned at various heights, the height of the desk top surface can be adjusted to achieve an ergonomical posture of the user when in his working position. By adapting the height of the desk top surface to the working position of the user, the user can maintain a comfortable and healthy posture during extended periods of use. The shielding plate supports the desk top surface and any objects that may be placed on it or are attached to it.

[0020] The invention is therefore advantageous in that the implementation of the height adjustable shielding plate simultaneously allows for the flexibility to adjust the working height of the desk top surface to an ergonomic working position for the user, while at the same time ensuring safety of the user by preventing access to dangerous parts.

[0021] The desk top surface may be configured as a desk top surface that is permanently affixed to the shielding plate such that its height may be adjusted by adjusting the vertical position of the shielding plate relative to the seating position.

[0022] Alternatively, the desk top surface could be configured as a foldable desk top surface that can be folded up against the shielding plate when not in use, providing more space within the pod. Alternatively, the desk top surface may be configured to be extended or retracted horizontally to provide more or less workspace as needed.

[0023] In another embodiment, the mounting mechanism may be configured to counterbalance the weight of the shielding plate and any fixtures that may be supported by it, such as the desk top surface. The mounting mechanism may be configured to comprise a rail system with a pulley system or a motorized system. In both cases the system comprises vertical rails attached to the designated wall, allowing the shielding plate to slide smoothly up and down. The mounting mechanism with the pulley system may use cables and counterweights to assist the user by supporting the vertical movement of the shielding plate, requiring less force from a user to move the shielding plate up or down. A motorized system comprises an electric motor that can raise and lower the shielding plate at the push of a button, providing ease of use and precision.

[0024] As such the counterweight mechanism ensures that only minimal force is required to vertically reposition the shielding plate and desk top surface. The shielding plate therefore can be positioned without requiring much effort at various heights relative to the at least one seat or seating arrangement.

[0025] In another embodiment, the shielding plate is configured with a lighting system that is fitted into the shielding plate. This arrangement allows for optimal lighting conditions during videoconferences. The integration into the shielding plate ensures that the lighting position moves along with the vertical position of the shielding plate in the case that it is adjusted by the occupant of the pod. The lighting system may also be fixed at the upper side or onto the shielding plate or a combination of the two.

[0026] In another embodiment, the shielding plate comprises a mounting bracket or mounting point for a computer display or workstation tablet. The advantage of this mounting position is that it ensures that the optimal viewing position can be adjusted together with the vertical position of the shielding plate, thereby adjusting the viewing position together with the other fixtures such as the desk top surface and the lighting system.

[0027] In a further embodiment, further electrical connections or fixtures may be integrated into the front side of the shielding plate. These fixtures are therefore accessible and located at the most desirable positions to the at least one user from his seating position. The fixtures are therefore accessible at ergonomic positions. Examples of such electrical fixtures include, but are not limited to, electrical poser sockets, video connector ports, network connections, USB ports or alike.

[0028] In another embodiment, the conference pod of the invention further comprises an acoustic treatment system integrated into the structural enclosure, the acoustic treatment system comprising sound-absorbing materials disposed on at least a portion of the walls, ceiling, and floor to reduce external noise and enhance internal sound quality. The plurality of walls may for that purpose be lined with acoustic panels or foam to absorb sound, reducing echo and ensuring that conversations inside the pod are not easily heard outside. In case that the pod has windows, they are often double-glazed to further enhance soundproofing. The walls may have integrated ventilation systems or vents to ensure proper airflow.

[0029] The acoustic treatment system may comprise sound-absorbing or sound attenuating panels or materials, used in the construction of the the interior walls or ceiling, and a carpeted floor with an underlay designed to dampen sound. The advantage of a careful selection of the combination of materials results in a further reduction of the external noise intrusion and enhancement of the clarity of conversations within the pod.

[0030] In another embodiment, the conference pod of the invention further comprises a ventilation system integrated into the structural enclosure. The ventilation system including at least one vent configured to circulate air within the interior space, and ensures that the air quality in the closed confined space is optimally managed.

[0031] A further improvement to the air quality may be achieved by the integration of a filtering mechanism configured to remove airborne particles and improve air quality within the interior space.

[0032] In another embodiment, the shielding plate further comprises switches operating for instance the motorized system of the mounting mechanism to adjust the height of the desk top surface, the height of the seat, the illumination level of the lighting system or the controls of the ventilation system.

[0033] Further advantages and embodiments of the present invention will become apparent from the following description and drawings.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0034] Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a conference pod with a transparent closed door, showing the interior components. Fig. 2 provides another perspective view of the conference pod, highlighting the shielding plate and integrated features. Fig. 3 shows a side view of the conference pod, detailing the vertical arrangement of the shielding plate and desk top surface. Fig. 4 presents a frontal view on the shielding plate and its associated elements. Detailed Description of Embodiment(s)

[0035] The conference pod 100 comprises a structural enclosure defining an interior space. The structural enclosure includes a floor 180, a ceiling, and a plurality of walls extending between the floor and the ceiling. One of the walls 130 includes a door 141 for accessing the interior space, with a door handle 142 for operation. The interior space houses a seating arrangement, which includes at least one seat (not shown) facing a designated wall 190 of the plurality of walls.

[0036] A shielding plate 110 covers the full width of the designated wall 190 and is configured to be positioned at various heights relative to a working position. The shielding plate 110 is equipped with a desk top surface 120 mounted to it. The desk top surface 120 is designed to move vertically with the shielding plate 110 to adjust to different heights relative to the working position of the user. This vertical movement is facilitated by an electrical switch 111, which operates the shielding plate movement.

[0037] The shielding plate 110 also includes electrical connections 112 integrated into it, making them accessible to a user occupying the working position. Additionally, a lighting system 113 is fitted into or onto the shielding plate 110, providing illumination within the interior space. The shielding plate 110 further comprises a mounting bracket or mounting point 119, configured to mount the shielding plate 110 against the designated wall 190.

[0038] An electrically operated mechanism or height adjustable mounting mechanism 118 is operatively connected to the shielding plate 110. This mechanism 118 is designed to support the weight of the shielding plate 110 and the desk top surface 120, facilitating smooth vertical movement. The structural enclosure also integrates an acoustic treatment system, comprising sound-absorbing materials disposed on at least a portion of the walls, ceiling, and floor to reduce external noise and enhance internal sound quality.

[0039] The conference pod 100 includes a ventilation system 150 integrated into the structural enclosure. The ventilation system 150 comprises at least one vent configured to circulate air within the interior space. Additionally, the ventilation system 150 includes a filtering mechanism to remove airborne particles and improve air quality within the interior space.

[0040] The desk top surface 120 or the shielding plate 110 comprises controls to adjust variable settings of the pod. These variable settings include the height of the desk top surface 120, the illumination level of the lighting system 113, and the controls of the ventilation system 150.

[0041] The main advantages of the invention include providing a versatile and adjustable workspace within a compact conference pod. The adjustable shielding plate and desk top surface allow users to customize the workspace to their ergonomic needs. The integrated electrical connections, lighting system, and mounting bracket enhance the functionality of the pod, making it suitable for various professional activities. The acoustic treatment system and ventilation system ensure a comfortable and quiet environment, improving the overall user experience. This invention addresses the need for a flexible, self-contained workspace that can be easily adapted to different users and tasks.

[0042] Figure 1 provides a comprehensive perspective view of the conference pod, showcasing its structural enclosure and the various interior components that make it a versatile and functional workspace. The conference pod, labelled as 100, is designed to offer a private and efficient environment for conferencing and work activities. The structural enclosure is defined by a ceiling, a plurality of walls, and a floor, creating a self-contained space that can be placed in various settings, such as offices, co-working spaces, or public areas.

[0043] The back wall, labelled as 130, and a portion of a lateral wall, labelled as 140, extend between the floor and the ceiling, providing essential structural support. These walls define the boundaries of the pod and contribute to its stability and durability. The design of the walls is such that they can accommodate various functional elements, including soundproofing materials, to enhance the acoustic quality within the pod. The shape of the back wall 130 may be adapted to support the working position of the user, such that a variety of working positions can be supported. Fig. 1 for instance illustrates a shape of a back wall that supports a standing position of a user that may also assume a leaning or partial sitting position against the curbed shape of the back wall.

[0044] A transparent door, labelled as 141, is integrated into one of the walls, allowing easy access to the interior space. The door is equipped with a handle, labelled as 142, designed for ergonomic use, ensuring that users can enter and exit the pod with ease. The door's design also contributes to the pod's soundproofing capabilities, helping to maintain privacy and reduce external noise.

[0045] The ceiling of the pod is equipped with an air treatment system, labelled as 150, which is part of the pod's ventilation system. This system is crucial for maintaining a comfortable environment within the pod, as it circulates air and can include a filtering mechanism to remove airborne particles, thereby improving air quality.

[0046] Figure 2 offers a detailed view of the interior components of the conference pod, focusing on the shielding plate and its associated elements. The shielding plate, labelled as 110, is a central feature of the pod's interior design. It is mounted against a designated wall, labelled as 190, and serves multiple purposes, including supporting a desk top surface and concealing functional elements.

[0047] The shielding plate is supported by a height adjustable mounting mechanism, labelled as 119, which allows it to be positioned at various heights. This adjustability is crucial for accommodating different user preferences and ergonomic requirements, ensuring that the pod can be customized to suit individual needs. The mechanism is designed for smooth operation, allowing users to easily adjust the height of the shielding plate and the attached desk top surface.

[0048] Attached to the shielding plate is a desk top surface, labelled as 120, which provides a stable and ergonomic workspace for users. The desk top surface is adjustable to the working position of the user, enhancing comfort and productivity. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who spend extended periods working within the pod, as it allows them to maintain a comfortable posture and reduce strain.

[0049] The shielding plate also incorporates a control or switch, labelled as 111, which allows users to adjust various settings of the pod. These settings include the illumination level of both the general as the conferencing lighting system and the controls of the ventilation system. This level of control ensures that users can create an optimal working environment tailored to their specific needs. Another control, labelled as 114, controls the height of the shielding plate.

[0050] Figure 3 presents a side view of the conference pod, emphasizing the height adjustable mounting mechanism that supports the shielding plate. This view provides insight into the engineering and design considerations that have gone into making the pod a flexible and user-friendly workspace.

[0051] The height adjustable mechanism, labelled as 119, is a key feature that enhances the pod's versatility. It allows the shielding plate and the attached desk top surface to be moved vertically, accommodating users of different heights and preferences. This adjustability is achieved through a combination of a motorized system or other electrically operated mechanism and smooth gliding tracks. The motorized system comprises an electric motor that can raise and lower the shielding plate at the push of a button, providing ease of use and precision. As an alternative, the up- and down-movement of the shielding plate is supported by counterweights that balance the weight of the shielding plate.

[0052] The side view also highlights the integration of electrical connections, labelled as 112, into the shielding plate. These connections are strategically positioned to be easily accessible to users, allowing them to power and connect their devices without cluttering the workspace. This feature is particularly important in modern work environments, where connectivity and power access are essential for productivity.

[0053] Additionally, the side view showcases the video conferencing lighting system, labelled as 113, which is fitted into or onto the shielding plate. The lighting system is designed to provide adequate illumination for the workspace, enhancing visibility and reducing eye strain. The lighting can be adjusted to suit different tasks and preferences, further contributing to the pod's ergonomic design. Since the lighting system 113 is integrated in or onto the shielding plate 110, it moves along with the position of the other attached components such as the computer display or the desk top surface, such that the illumination of the user during a videoconference is always optimal regardless of the size or working position of the user. This provides the advantage that the illumination of the user is always optimal.

[0054] Figure 4 provides a front view of the interior of the conference pod, focusing on the desk top surface and the control elements integrated into the shielding plate. This view highlights the user-centric design of the pod, which prioritizes functionality and ease of use.

[0055] The desk top surface, labelled as 120, is a central feature of the pod's interior, providing a spacious and stable area for work activities. Its adjustability allows users to customize the height and angle of the surface, ensuring that they can work comfortably and efficiently. The surface is designed to accommodate a variety of devices and materials, making it suitable for different types of work.

[0056] The control elements, labelled as 111 and 114, are integrated into the shielding plate, providing users with easy access to the pod's adjustable features. These controls 111 and 114 allow users to modify the illumination level of the lighting system and the settings of the ventilation system, and respectively the height of the desk top surface,. The intuitive design of the controls ensures that users can make adjustments quickly and easily, without interrupting their workflow. The control elements may be configured as switches, sliders, digital interfaces or alike allowing control to the adjustable features.

[0057] The front view also emphasizes the clean and organized appearance of the pod's interior. The shielding plate, with its integrated functional elements, conceals any wiring or components, maintaining a tidy and professional look, and protects any of the functional elements in the back of the shielding plate to be accessed, touched or manipulated by the user. The specific design of the shielding plate covering any of the shielded elements, simultaneously provides the functionality to adjust the height of several functional elements to the ergonomic requirement of a user while enhancing the reliability and safety of the pod, by shielding off the user from the mechanism that supports the vertical movement or from other shielded elements.

[0058] This attention to detail is indicative of the pod's overall design philosophy, which seeks to create a harmonious and efficient workspace.

[0059] The design of the conference pod offers several advantages, making it an ideal solution for modern workspaces. Its structural enclosure provides a private and functional environment that can be customized to the user's needs. The height adjustable features and integrated controls enhance ergonomic comfort, allowing users to create a workspace that suits their preferences and reduces physical strain.

[0060] The integration of electrical and lighting systems supports a variety of work activities, ensuring that users have the tools they need to be productive. The ventilation system, with its air treatment capabilities, ensures a healthy and comfortable environment, making the pod suitable for extended use.

[0061] The conference pod is versatile and can be used in a range of settings, from corporate offices to co-working spaces and public areas. Its design allows it to be easily installed and relocated, providing flexibility for changing work environments. The pod's soundproofing capabilities make it particularly valuable in open-plan offices, where privacy and noise reduction are important considerations.

[0062] Overall, the conference pod represents a thoughtful and innovative approach to workspace design, addressing the needs of modern workers and providing a solution that enhances productivity, comfort, and well-being.

[0063] Although the present invention has been illustrated by reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not limited to the details of the foregoing illustrative embodiments, and that the present invention may be embodied with various changes and modifications without departing from the scope thereof. The present embodiments are therefore to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are therefore intended to be embraced therein. In other words, it is contemplated to cover any and all modifications, variations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the basic underlying principles and whose essential attributes are claimed in this patent application. It will furthermore be understood by the reader of this patent application that the words "comprising" or "comprise" do not exclude other elements or steps, that the words "a" or "an" do not exclude a plurality, and that a single element, such as a computer system, a processor, or another integrated unit may fulfil the functions of several means recited in the claims. Any reference signs in the claims shall not be construed as limiting the respective claims concerned. The terms "first", "second", third", "a", "b", "c", and the like, when used in the description or in the claims are introduced to distinguish between similar elements or steps and are not necessarily describing a sequential or chronological order. Similarly, the terms "top", "bottom", "over", "under", and the like are introduced for descriptive purposes and not necessarily to denote relative positions. It is to be understood that the terms so used are interchangeable under appropriate circumstances and embodiments of the invention are capable of operating according to the present invention in other sequences, or in orientations different from the one(s) described or illustrated above.

Claims

1. A conference pod (100) comprising: a structural enclosure defining an interior space, the structural enclosure comprising: a ceiling; a plurality of walls (130, 140, 190) extending between the floor and the ceiling, wherein at least one of the walls includes a door (141) for accessing the interior space; a floor space (180) comprising a designated work area for at least one person assuming a working position in the pod, this working position faces a designated wall (190) of the plurality of walls; a shielding plate (110) mounted against the designated wall (190) by a height adjustable mounting mechanism (118) for positioning the shielding plate at various heights, said shielding plate having a sufficient width to cover any functional elements installed behind said shielding plate, a desk top surface (120) mounted to the shielding plate, wherein the desk top surface is adjustable to the working position of said at least one person.

2. A conference pod according to Claim 1, wherein the shielding plate (110) substantially covers the width of the designated wall (190).

3. A conference pod according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a height adjustable mounting mechanism (118) operatively connected to the shielding plate, wherein the mechanism is configured to facilitate smooth vertical movement of the shielding plate and the desk top surface.

4. A conference pod according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a lighting system (113) fitted into or onto the shielding plate.

5. A conference pod according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a mounting bracket or mounting point on the shielding plate, configured to mount the shielding plate (110) against the designated wall (190).

6. A conference pod according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising electrical connections integrated into the shielding plate, wherein the electrical connections are positioned to be accessible to a user in the working position.

7. A conference pod according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising an acoustic treatment system integrated into the structural enclosure, the acoustic treatment system comprising sound-absorbing materials disposed on at least a portion of the walls, ceiling, and floor to reduce external noise and enhance internal sound quality.

8. A conference pod according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a connectivity module configured to interface with external devices for audio and video conferencing.

9. A conference pod according to any of the preceding claims, further comprising a ventilation system integrated into the structural enclosure, the ventilation system including at least one vent configured to circulate air within the interior space.

10. A conference pod according to claim 8, wherein the ventilation system includes a filtering mechanism configured to remove airborne particles and improve air quality within the interior space.

11. A conference pod according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the desk top surface or the shielding plate comprise controls to adjust variable settings of the pod, wherein the variable settings may comprise: a. the height of the desk top surface; b. the illumination level of a lighting system; c. the controls of the ventilation system.

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