Office Pod

Abstract

An office pod (200) enclosing an interior soundproof workspace, the office pod (200) comprising a front load-bearing frame (210), a rear load-bearing frame (220), and skin layers (230, 240) attached between the front load-bearing frame (210) and the rear load-bearing frame (220) to provide cross-dimensional rigidity to the front and rear load-bearing frames (210, 220).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to office pods or the like.

Background Art

[0002] This section presents useful background information without admitting that any of the techniques described herein represent prior art.

[0003] Office pods such as soundproof meeting rooms, work booths, and phone booths are increasingly used not only in public spaces but also as modern office furniture. Such pods are often used for work, meetings, phone calls, and video conferences.

[0004] Conventional office pods include opposing wall modules connected to each other by a bottom floor module and an upper ceiling module. These modules form a rigid chassis to which windows and / or door frames are attached on the sides. The wall modules comprise alternating soundproofing and sound-absorbing layers and an outermost external cover (skin layer).

[0005] In recent years, the manufacturing costs of these types of office pods have been increasing.

Summary of the Invention

[0006] An object of certain embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide a novel and progressive office pod with a new design.

[0007] According to a first exemplary aspect of the present invention, an office pod surrounding an inner soundproof workspace, comprising: a front load-bearing frame, a rear load-bearing frame, a skin layer attached between the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame so as to provide cross-dimensional rigidity to the front and rear load-bearing frames.

[0008] In this context, a soundproof workspace means that the office pod surrounding the soundproof workspace is intentionally configured to prevent sound from propagating outside the office pod, particularly in the human speech frequency range. In a preferred embodiment, the soundproofing is at a level where words spoken inside the office pod can no longer be recognized outside the pod, i.e., the soundproofing makes speech inside the pod incomprehensible outside the pod.

[0009] In this context, cross-dimension refers to a dimension that is neither within the plane of the load-bearing frame(s) in question nor parallel to the plane of the load-bearing frame(s) in question. Furthermore, providing cross-dimensional stiffness (or support) means that in this context, the front and rear load-bearing frames are provided with (appropriate) lateral bracing. Thus, the skin layer providing cross-dimensional stiffness maintains the rectangular shape of the volume between the frames (i.e., provides the effect that the shape of the volume between the frames does not change).

[0010] In this context, the “load-bearing” frame refers to the frame structure that provides attachment points and structural support to other parts of the pod. In other words, the “load-bearing” frame is the part that receives structural loads from other parts of the pod on the floor and transfers them to the ground on which the pod stands.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the skin layer is located between the load-bearing frames in the form of a substantially (generally) planar and uniform (non-perforated) surface. The planarity and uniformity of the skin layer contribute to the desired acoustic behavior, where the desired acoustic behavior means (metaphorically) the drumhead-like vibration behavior of the skin layer. That is, in certain embodiments, the planarity of the skin layer, particularly the outer periphery region, allows for the favorable minimization of its natural frequencies, thereby any non-planar form, particularly angular forms such as corrugations, would detrimentally increase the natural frequencies of the skin layer.

[0012] It should be understood that any holes for fastening means such as screws and bolts are not left open to allow sound to pass freely through the assembled pod with the skin layer, and therefore should not be interpreted as deviations from the uniformity of the skin layer (i.e., not understood as perforations in the skin layer).

[0013] In certain embodiments, the epidermal layer is (generally) planar (i.e., without corrugations, for example). This means that in certain embodiments, the epidermal layer is planar in other areas other than the peripheral region (where the epidermal layer may have a non-planar shape for curing and / or attachment). In certain embodiments, at least 80%, more preferably at least 90%, of the total area of ​​the epidermal layer is planar (i.e., without corrugations or other angled shapes), and non-planar shapes, if present, are located in the peripheral region of the epidermal layer.

[0014] In certain embodiments, the skin layer between load-bearing frames is formed from two or more generally planar subpieces, particularly two, three, or four subpieces, that are positioned adjacent to one another.

[0015] Each subpiece generally has a planar and uniform surface morphology. The planarity and uniformity of the subpieces in the surface layer contribute to the desired acoustic behavior. The above planarity requirement also applies in such cases (multiple cases).

[0016] In certain embodiments, the office pod has hardened placements at joints or regions where adjacent subpieces are joined together. Thus, the subpieces are generally planar, except that they can be bent or curved in the regions where they are joined together with the frames and / or adjacent subpieces, similar to a one-piece mounting where the otherwise planar skin layer can be bent or curved in the regions of the front and rear load-bearing frames (to which they are attached).

[0017] Therefore, in certain embodiments, the office pod includes a curing arrangement in a bonding region where one subpiece is joined together with an adjacent subpiece.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the curing arrangement is achieved by bending the subpieces relative to each other (and attaching the end of one subpiece to the end of an adjacent subpiece).

[0019] In certain embodiments, the office pod comprises a surface layer of sound-insulating material that forms the outer surface (outer cover) of the pod. In certain embodiments, the surface layer is a thin sheet of metal. In certain embodiments, the surface layer is a thin sheet of metal made of steel.

[0020] Sound-insulating materials, sometimes also known as soundproofing materials, typically refer to materials that primarily block sound waves from passing through them by reflection. Such materials are typically rigid and dense. Examples of such materials include steel and concrete.

[0021] In certain embodiments, the office pod comprises a sidewall structure having a surface layer and a subsequent sound-absorbing material layer. Therefore, in certain embodiments, the sidewall structure is a layered structure. In certain embodiments, the sidewall structure includes or consists of superimposed layers. In certain embodiments, the sound-absorbing material layer is superimposed on the surface layer.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the sidewall structure is implemented without any further sound insulation layer. That is, in such cases, the skin layer is the only sound insulation layer within the sidewall (structure).

[0023] In certain embodiments, the sidewall structure comprises a sound-absorbing element including a plurality of sound-absorbing material layers. In certain embodiments, the sidewall structure comprises a sound-absorbing element including an air layer. In certain embodiments, the sidewall structure comprises a sound-absorbing element or sound-absorbing material layer spaced at a certain distance from the surface layer, with an air layer between them. In certain embodiments, the sound-absorbing element is formed from or comprises a sound-absorbing material layer and an air layer.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the air layer is positioned (sandwiched) between the sound-absorbing material layer and the skin layer. In certain embodiments, the sound-absorbing element comprises an inner liner layer facing the interior of the pod. In certain embodiments, the inner liner has a higher flow resistivity than the sound-absorbing material layer. In certain embodiments, the inner liner layer forms a second sound-absorbing material layer (whereas the first-mentioned sound-absorbing material layer forms a first sound-absorbing material layer). In certain embodiments, the order of the different layers in the sidewall structure is the skin layer (outermost layer), air layer, first sound-absorbing material layer, inner liner layer (innermost layer). In certain other embodiments, the order of the different layers in the sidewall structure is the skin layer (outermost layer), first sound-absorbing material layer, air layer, inner liner layer (innermost layer). In certain further other embodiments, the air layer is present at the center of the first sound-absorbing material layer. In certain further other embodiments, a plurality of air layers are present within the sidewall structure.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the layers of the sidewall structure do not overlap in a direction perpendicular to the layers (i.e., a direction perpendicular to the surface of the largest area of all the layers).

[0026] A sound-absorbing material refers mainly to a material that allows sound waves to propagate through the material while absorbing the sound waves so that no echo is generated during that process. Such materials are typically light and well-ventilated. Examples of such materials are open-cell foams and textiles.

[0027] As will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art, all materials have to some extent both sound-insulating and sound-absorbing properties. For example, in the case of concrete or steel, the sound-insulating properties significantly dominate the sound-absorbing properties, whereby such materials are understood to be sound-insulating materials. And correspondingly, for example, in the case of glass wool, open-cell foams, fibrous felts, and textiles, the sound-absorbing properties significantly dominate the sound-insulating properties, whereby such materials are understood to be sound-absorbing materials.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the total mass of the sidewall structure is at most half, or preferably at most one-third, of the total mass of either the front wall with the front load-bearing frame or the rear wall with the rear load-bearing frame.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the total thickness of the sidewall structure is less than 200 mm, more preferably less than 100 mm.

[0030] In certain embodiments, the sidewall structure is a non-modular structure. "Non-modular" in this context means that the skin layer and the sound-absorbing elements form separate layers that do not form an integrated whole.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the office pod comprises a skin layer that is not harder than any of the load-bearing frames.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the skin layer is attached directly to the front and rear load-bearing frames.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the skin layer is attached indirectly to the front and rear load-bearing frames.

[0034] In certain embodiments, the office pod comprises a connector (which can be a rigid connector) that connects the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame, and the skin layer is attached to the connector. In certain embodiments, the connector is in the form of a bar or a beam. In certain embodiments, the connector is hollow. In certain embodiments, the hollow connector houses wiring and / or electrical parts. In certain embodiments, the hollow connector provides a fire enclosure for the main voltage electrical components of the pod, thereby eliminating the need for a separate fire enclosure for the main voltage electrical components. When functioning as such a fire enclosure, the hollow connector is made of a non-combustible material such as metal, preferably steel, or a flame-retardant plastic, preferably 5VA plastic.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the connector is a non-vertical connector. In certain embodiments, the connector is a horizontal or substantially horizontal connector.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the office pod is provided with the skin layer on both the left and right sides of the pod, and the chassis having cross-dimensional support is formed from the skin layer and the load-bearing frame.

[0037] In certain embodiments, a functional layer relating to sound insulation of the side wall of an office pod comprises a surface layer and a sound-absorbing element, the sound-absorbing element comprising a sound-absorbing material layer with or without one or more air layers and an optional inner liner (or inner panel) having sound-absorbing material (superimposed on the sound-absorbing material layer).

[0038] In certain elements, the rigidity of the pod is enhanced by a ceiling structure attached to the front and rear load-bearing frames. In certain embodiments, the ceiling structure is preferably configured to implement a ventilation function.

[0039] In certain embodiments, the rigidity of the pod is further enhanced by a floor structure attached to the front and rear load-bearing frames. In certain embodiments, the rigid connector is integrated into the floor structure.

[0040] In certain embodiments, the front load-bearing frame and / or the rear load-bearing frame are equipped with doors.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the front load-bearing frame and / or the rear load-bearing frame surround or at least partially surround the door or door frame.

[0042] In certain embodiments, the front load-bearing frame constitutes the outermost surrounding element of the front wall. In certain embodiments, the rear load-bearing frame constitutes the outermost surrounding element of the rear wall.

[0043] According to a second exemplary aspect of the present invention, a method is provided for assembling an office pod according to the first aspect or any embodiment thereof, the method being: - The chassis of the office pod is assembled by first providing the front and rear load-bearing frames, then attaching the right and left skin layers directly or indirectly to the front and rear load-bearing frames to form a cross-dimensional rigid chassis, and then, - This includes attaching further parts of the office pod to the chassis in order to form the completed office pod.

[0044] Different non-binding exemplary embodiments and settings have been set forth above. The embodiments described herein are used solely to illustrate selected embodiments or steps that may be utilized in different implementations. Some embodiments and features may be presented only with reference to specific exemplary embodiments. It should be understood that corresponding embodiments and features also apply to other exemplary embodiments. Any suitable combination of embodiments may be formed. Any apparatus and / or methods in the description and / or drawings that are not covered by the claims are useful examples for understanding the invention.

[0045] Several exemplary embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0046] [Figure 1A] This shows an exploded view of a part of the office pod according to a specific embodiment. [Figure 1B] Figure 1A shows an assembly of an office pod having the parts shown. [Figure 2A] An exploded view of a part of the office pod according to a specific other embodiment is shown. [Figure 2B] Figure 2A shows an assembly of an office pod having the parts shown. [Figure 3A] Another exploded view of a part of the office pod according to a specific embodiment is shown. [Figure 3B]Figure 3A shows an assembly of an office pod having the parts shown. [Figure 4A] Further exploded views of parts of the office pod according to a specific embodiment are shown. [Figure 4B] Figure 4A shows an assembly of an office pod having the parts shown. [Figure 5A] Further exploded views of parts of the office pod according to a specific embodiment are shown. [Figure 5B] Figure 5A shows an assembly of an office pod having the parts shown. [Figure 6] (A) shows an office pod cut by a virtual horizontal plane to obtain a cross-sectional view according to a particular embodiment. (B) shows a first cross-sectional view. (C) shows an alternative cross-sectional view. [Figure 7] (A) shows another office pod cut by a virtual horizontal plane to obtain a cross-sectional view. (B) shows a cross-sectional view of the office pod in Figure 7(A). [Figure 8] (A) shows another embodiment having an office pod cut by a virtual horizontal plane to obtain a cross-sectional view. (B) shows a cross-sectional view of the office pod in Figure 8(A). [Figure 9A] A cross-sectional view of the side wall structure of an office pod according to a specific embodiment is shown. [Figure 9B] A cross-sectional view of the side wall structure of an office pod according to a specific embodiment is shown. [Figure 9C] A cross-sectional view of the side wall structure of an office pod according to a specific embodiment is shown. [Figure 10A] This shows an exploded view of a larger office pod according to a specific embodiment. [Figure 10B] Figure 10A shows an assembly of an office pod having the parts shown. [Figure 11A] A close-up view of specific details of the office pod according to a particular embodiment is shown. [Figure 11B] A close-up view of specific details of the office pod according to a particular embodiment is shown. [Figure 12]A close-up view of yet another detail of the office pod according to a specific embodiment is shown. [Figure 13] A close-up view of yet another detail of the office pod according to a specific embodiment is shown. [Figure 14] Further details of the office pod according to a specific embodiment are shown. [Figure 15] This shows a cross brace and a specific sound-absorbing layer within an office pod according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 16] This shows a specific layer of the side wall structure of an office pod according to a particular embodiment. [Figure 17] The location of the mounting points for a single piece of skin layer according to a specific embodiment is shown. [Figure 18] This shows the locations of attachment points for the epidermal layer formed from multiple subpieces according to a specific embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0047] In the following explanation, similar reference numerals indicate similar elements or steps. Refer to Figures 1 through 18 with the following numbers and notations.

[0048] [Table 1]

[0049] Embodiments of an office pod according to this disclosure include a front load-bearing frame, a rear load-bearing frame, and a skin layer attached between the front and rear load-bearing frames, the skin layer providing cross-dimensional stiffness to the front and rear load-bearing frames. Thus, for example, in certain embodiments, the office pod has the skin layer on both the left and right sides of the pod, and the chassis having cross-dimensional stiffness (or support) is formed from the skin layer and the load-bearing frames. In certain embodiments, the cross-dimensional stiffness of the frame means a structural property that resists the frame becoming upright and / or tilting from the upright position. In other words, the cross-dimensional stiffness of the frame means resistance to forces that attempt to change the relative positions of the frame, especially when tilted and once upright.

[0050] Figure 1A shows an exploded view of a selected portion of the office pod 100 according to a particular embodiment, and Figure 1B shows an assembly of the chassis of the office pod 100 having the portion shown in Figure 1A. The office pod 100 comprises a front load-bearing frame 110, a rear load-bearing frame 120, a left-side skin layer 130, and a right-side skin layer 140. The left-side skin layer 130 is attached to the left side of the pod 100 between the front load-bearing frame 110 and the rear load-bearing frame 120, and the right-side skin layer 140 is attached to the right side of the pod 100 between the front load-bearing frame 110 and the rear load-bearing frame 120.

[0051] In this context, and in the following description, "attaching" the load-bearing frames "between" them means that the skin layer is present between the load-bearing frames, but does not need to be present between them in their entirety. For example, in certain embodiments, the edges of the skin layer overlap with each load-bearing frame, for example, for the purpose of attachment. Thus, a skin layer attached between a front load-bearing frame and a rear load-bearing frame should be understood to be able to obtain attachment from the load-bearing frames in such a manner that, in its peripheral region, the skin layer may overlap with the frame in that peripheral region, but otherwise is present between the load-bearing frames.

[0052] The surface layers (multiple layers possible) 130 and 140 provide cross-dimensional rigidity (lateral bracing) to the front and rear load-bearing frames 110 and 120.

[0053] The left-side skin layer 130 has mounting points 131-134 at each corner (or corner region) of layer 130. Similarly, the right-side skin layer 140 has mounting points 141-144 at each corner (or corner region) of layer 140. The skin layers 130 and 140 are attached (preferably in a fixed manner) to the front and rear load-bearing frames 110 and 120 at mounting points 131-134 and 141-144, providing cross-dimensional rigidity to the front and rear load-bearing frames 110 and 120. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the skin layers 130 and 140 between the frames 110 and 120 are generally in the form of a planar and uniform surface (forming a sound-insulating layer).

[0054] Figure 2A shows an exploded view of a selected portion of the office pod 200 according to a particular embodiment, and Figure 2B shows an assembly of the chassis of the office pod 200 having the portion shown in Figure 2A. The office pod 200 comprises a front load-bearing frame 210, a rear load-bearing frame 220, a left-side skin layer 230, and a right-side skin layer 240. The left-side skin layer 230 is attached to the left side of the pod 200 between the front load-bearing frame 210 and the rear load-bearing frame 220, and the right-side skin layer 240 is attached to the right side of the pod 200 between the front load-bearing frame 210 and the rear load-bearing frame 220. The skin layers 230, 240 provide cross-dimensional rigidity (lateral bracing) to the front and rear load-bearing frames 210, 220. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the surface layers 230 and 240 between the frames 210 and 220 are generally in the form of a planar and uniform surface (forming a sound-insulating layer).

[0055] The left-side skin layer 230 has mounting points 231-234 at each corner (or corner region) of the layer 230. Similarly, the right-side skin layer 240 has mounting points 241-244 at each corner (or corner region) of the layer 240. In contrast to the embodiments shown in Figures 1A and 1B, the skin layers 230 and 240 are not directly attached to the frames 210 and 220, but rather separate connectors 251, 252, 261, and 262 are present connecting the frames 210 and 220, and the skin layers 230 and 240 are attached to the frames 210 and 220 (preferably in a fixed manner) via their respective connectors.

[0056] In the embodiments shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the left skin layer 230 is attached at mounting points 231 and 232 at its upper corner (or corner region) to a first (upper) connector 251 mounted between frames 210 and 220 on the upper left side of the pod 200. Similarly, the left skin layer 230 is attached at mounting points 233 and 234 at its lower corner (or corner region) to a second (lower) connector 252 mounted between frames 210 and 220 on the lower left side of the pod 200.

[0057] The right-side skin layer 240 is attached at mounting points 241 and 242 at its upper corner (or corner region) to a third (upper) connector 261 mounted between frames 210 and 220 on the upper right side of the pod 200. Similarly, the right-side skin layer 240 is attached at mounting points 243 and 244 at its lower corner (or corner region) to a fourth (lower) connector 262 mounted between frames 210 and 220 on the lower right side of the pod 200.

[0058] In certain embodiments, the connectors 251, 252, 261, and 262 themselves do not substantially participate in functionally providing cross-dimensional rigidity to the front and rear load-bearing frames 210 and 220, but the skin layers 230 and 240 do provide cross-dimensional rigidity to the front and rear load-bearing frames 210 and 220 (in certain embodiments, as an effect in combination with the connectors 251, 252, 261, and 262).

[0059] More generally, connectors 251, 252, 261, and 262 do not need to provide cross-dimensional rigidity to the front and rear load-bearing frames 210 and 220 due to the surface layers 230 and 240 that provide this functionality, but it is not detrimental to the rigidity of the pod chassis if connectors 251, 252, 261, and 262 do so. As a result, connectors 251, 252, 261, and 262 can be attached to the front and rear load-bearing frames 210 and 220 in a simple and economical manner.

[0060] Furthermore, embodiments shown in Figures 1A to 2B present mounting points in corners or corner regions. While this disclosure is not limited to solutions having mounting points only in corners (or corner regions), it should be understood that embodiments of this disclosure may also have mounting points in other regions of each skin layer (for example, as shown in relation to Figures 10A, 10B, 11A, and 11B in the following description). However, any mounting points in these and further embodiments are preferably located in the peripheral regions of the skin layer(s). In certain embodiments, the skin layer(s) are mounted in their peripheral regions, while the remaining (i.e., central) regions are not mounted. In certain embodiments, the skin layer(s) do not contact any structures behind them so that they can vibrate freely.

[0061] Figure 3A shows an exploded view of a selected portion of the office pod 200 according to a particular embodiment, and Figure 3B shows an assembly of the office pod 200 chassis with the ceiling and floor added, having the portion shown in Figure 3A. Otherwise, the embodiments shown in Figures 3A and 3B correspond entirely to the structure and operation of the pod 200 shown and described above in relation to Figures 2A and 2B, but Figures 3A and 3B further show the ceiling structure 270 and floor structure 280 attached to the front load-bearing frame 210 and rear load-bearing frame 220. In a particular embodiment, the ceiling structure 270 and floor structure 280 are substantially non-participating in functionally providing cross-dimensional rigidity to the front and rear load-bearing frames 210, 220. However, in a particular embodiment, the rigidity of the pod 200 is further enhanced by attaching the ceiling structure 270 and floor structure 280.

[0062] More generally, the ceiling structure 270 and floor structure 280 do not need to provide cross-dimensional rigidity to the front and rear load-bearing frames 210 and 220 due to the surface layers 230 and 240 that provide this functionality, but it is not detrimental to the rigidity of the pod chassis if the ceiling structure 270 and floor structure 280 do so. As a result, the ceiling structure 270 and floor structure 280 can be attached to the front and rear load-bearing frames 210 and 220 in a simple and economical manner.

[0063] In certain embodiments, the ceiling structure 270 is configured to implement a ventilation function. For this purpose, in certain embodiments, the ceiling structure includes an integrated ventilation system 271.

[0064] Figure 4A shows an exploded view of a selected portion of the office pod 200 according to a particular embodiment, and Figure 4B shows an assembly of the office pod 200 with the ceiling and floor added to the chassis having the portion shown in Figure 4A. Otherwise, the embodiments shown in Figures 4A and 4B correspond in full to the structure and operation of the pod 200 shown and described above in relation to Figures 2A, 2B, 3A and 3B, except that Figures 4A and 4B further show a left-side skin layer 230 formed from two subpieces 230a and 230b. Similarly, a right-side skin layer 240 is formed from two subpieces 240a and 240b. In a particular embodiment, the joints or joint areas of the subpieces include appropriate hardening arrangements (to provide rigidity to withstand forces that cause the skin layers to bulge, for example, caused by a person leaning against the wall inside the pod). In certain embodiments, the joint region is located in the edge region of the subpiece, while the other area of ​​the subpiece (the central area) is generally a flat, uniform surface (forming a sound-insulating layer). In certain embodiments, the joint point or joint region includes or provides mounting positions for a fastener to which the subpieces 240a and 240b are attached together.

[0065] Figure 5A shows an exploded view of a selected portion of the office pod 300 according to a particular embodiment, and Figure 5B shows an assembly of the office pod 300 chassis with the ceiling and floor added, having the portion shown in Figure 5A. Otherwise, the embodiments shown in Figures 5A and 5B fully correspond to the structure and operation of the pod 200 shown and described above in relation to Figures 2A to 4B, but Figures 5A and 5B further show upper connectors (shown in 351 and 361) integrated with the ceiling structure (shown in 370), and lower connectors (shown in 352 and 362) integrated with the floor structure (shown in 380).

[0066] Figure 6A shows the office pod 200 cut by a virtual horizontal plane A to obtain a cross-sectional view of the office pod 200 at the point where the right-side skin layer 240 connects to the front load-bearing frame 210. Figure 6B shows an example in which the curved end of the skin layer 240 fits into the respective vertical grooves in the frame 210. Figure 6C shows an example corresponding to the example shown in Figure 6A, except that the frame 210 further comprises magnets or a plurality of magnets 215 on the sides of the frame 210 to provide an attractive magnetic force between the frame 210 and the skin layer 240. Such magnets 215 provide ease of assembly so that the skin layer 240 can be magnetically snapped into place, and any other fastening(s) can then be performed with the skin layer 240 already in place. Such magnets 215 provide a mounting force between the frame(s) 210 and the skin layer 240, preventing rattling of the skin layer 240 relative to the frame(s) 210 without requiring the use of fasteners that would make pod assembly time-consuming and / or need to penetrate the acoustically necessary skin layer 240 in those areas. The same applies to the use of magnets, as described below.

[0067] Figure 7A shows the office pod 200 cut by a virtual horizontal plane A to obtain a cross-sectional view of the right side wall structure of the office pod 200. In this example, as shown in the cross-section of Figure 7B, the right skin layer 240 is formed from two subpieces 240a and 240b, and the joint area where the subpieces 240a and 240b are joined includes a cured arrangement 240c. The subpieces 240a and 240b are each provided with curved ends to fit into the respective vertical grooves in the respective frames 210 and 220. The frames 210 and 220 may include magnets 215 and 225 on the respective sides of the frames 210 and 220 to provide an attractive magnetic force between the frames 210 and 220 and the respective subpieces 240a and 240b. The subpieces 240a and 240b may extend conformally along the surface of the respective frames beyond the groove locations, as shown by the dotted lines in Figure 7B.

[0068] The surface layer 240, formed from subpieces 240a and 240b, is followed by a sound-absorbing layer 245 when moving toward the interior of the office pod 200. The sound-absorbing layer can be attached to the front and rear load-bearing frames 210 and 220 by their respective mounting elements 214 and 224.

[0069] The central regions of subpieces 240a and 240b (and the respective regions of the sound-absorbing layer 245) are not depicted in Figure 7B, but are marked by dashed lines.

[0070] Figure 8A shows the office pod 200 cut by a virtual horizontal plane A, similar to Figures 7A and 7B. Figure 8B shows another example of a cross-section of the right sidewall structure when the right surface layer 240 is formed from two subpieces 240a and 240b. Otherwise, the embodiments shown in Figures 8A and 8B correspond in full to the structure and operation of the pod 200 shown and described above in relation to Figures 7A and 7B, except that the connection points or regions where the subpieces 240a and 240b connect to their respective frames 210 and 220 are in different positions. Thus, the grooves in the frames 210 and 220 to which the ends (or protruding portions) of the subpieces 240a and 240b are attached are located on the planes of the respective frames 210 and 220 that are substantially parallel to the planes of the respective subpieces 240a and 240b. Subpieces 240a and 240b can extend beyond the groove (and beyond the corners of each frame) along the surface of each frame at a conformal angle, as shown by the dotted lines in Figure 8B.

[0071] The central regions of subpieces 240a and 240b (and the respective regions of the sound-absorbing layer 245) are not depicted in Figure 8B, but are marked by dashed lines.

[0072] Figure 9A shows a cross-sectional view of the right side wall structure of the office pod 200 (hereinafter equally applicable to the left side wall structure) according to a particular embodiment. The wall structure substantially consists of a skin layer 240 and a subsequent (overlapping) sound-absorbing layer 245. The skin layer 240 is substantially planar in its region located between the front load-bearing frame 210 and the rear load-bearing frame 220. In the region of frames 210, 220, in a particular embodiment, the skin layer 240 has bent or curved portions in these peripheral regions for mounting a structurally rigid skin layer 240 and / or providing an edge region(s) of the structurally rigid skin layer 240. In other embodiments, the skin layer 240 remains planar even in the region of the frames.

[0073] Figure 9B shows a partial cross-sectional view of the right side wall structure (hereinafter equally applicable to the left side wall structure) of the office pod 200 according to a particular further embodiment. In addition to the surface layer 240 and the (first) sound-absorbing layer 245, the wall structure further comprises a second sound-absorbing layer 246 (such as an inner liner layer) (superimposed) on the first sound-absorbing layer 245, the second sound-absorbing layer 246 forming the inner surface of the office pod 200. In a particular embodiment, the first and second sound-absorbing layers 245 and 246 together form a sound-absorbing element 255.

[0074] Figure 9C shows a partial cross-sectional view of the right side wall structure (hereinafter equally applicable to the left side wall structure) of the office pod 200 according to a particular further embodiment. In those embodiments, the sound-absorbing element 255 comprises a sound-absorbing material layer 245a and an air (gap) layer 245b in addition to the inner liner layer 246. In other embodiments, the order of the sound-absorbing material layer 245a and the air layer 245b is reversed from the order shown in Figure 9C. Thus, in certain embodiments, the sound-absorbing material layer 245a is closer to the surface layer 240.

[0075] Generally, the wall structure comprises a skin layer 240 followed by sound-absorbing elements 255. The sound-absorbing elements 255 comprise at least one sound-absorbing layer 245 (or sound-absorbing material layer 245a). In addition, the sound-absorbing elements 255 optionally comprise an inner liner layer 246 as the innermost layer. Alternatively, or in addition, the sound-absorbing elements 255 optionally comprise one or more air (gap) layers 245b that may exist anywhere between the skin layer 240 and the innermost material layer facing the pod user. In certain embodiments, the sound-absorbing (material) layer is a soft material (such as Ewona fiber mat) compared to a more robust or high-density material of the optional inner liner layer 246. In certain embodiments, the sound-absorbing elements 255 may comprise a dustproof material.

[0076] Figure 10A shows an exploded view of a selected portion of the office pod 1300 according to a particular embodiment, and Figure 10B shows an assembly of the office pod 1300 comprising the portion shown in Figure 10A. Similarly, as previously described, the office pod 1300 comprises a front load-bearing frame 1210, a rear load-bearing frame 1220, a left-side skin layer 1230, and a right-side skin layer 1240. However, compared to the aforementioned office pods 100-300, the office pod 1300 is a larger-scale pod that provides space for multiple people.

[0077] In the office pod 1300, the left-side skin layer 1230 is attached to the left side of the pod 1300 between the front load-bearing frame 1210 and the rear load-bearing frame 1220, and the right-side skin layer 1240 is attached to the right side of the pod 1300 between the front load-bearing frame 1210 and the rear load-bearing frame 1220.

[0078] The left-side skin layer 1230 has mounting points at each corner (or corner area) of layer 1230. Similarly, the right-side skin layer 1240 has mounting points at each corner (or corner area) of layer 1240. Although the skin layers 1230 and 1240 are not directly attached to the frames 1210 and 1220, there are connectors 1251, 1352, 1261, and 1362 that connect the frames 1210 and 1220, and the skin layers 1230 and 1240 are attached to the frames 1210 and 1220 via their respective connectors.

[0079] In certain embodiments, connectors 1251, 1352, 1261, and 1362 are non-vertical connectors. In certain embodiments, connectors 1251, 1352, 1261, and 1362 are horizontal connectors or substantially horizontal connectors. The same applies to the aforementioned connectors 251, 252, 261, 262, 351, 352, 361, and 362.

[0080] In the embodiments shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the left skin layer 1230 is attached at its upper corner (or corner region) to a first (upper) connector 1251 mounted between frames 1210 and 1220 on the upper left side of the pod 1300. Similarly, the left skin layer 1230 is attached at its lower corner (or corner region) to a second (lower) connector 1352 mounted between frames 1210 and 1220 on the lower left side of the pod 1300.

[0081] The right-side skin layer 1240 is attached at its upper corner (or corner region) to a third (upper) connector 1261 mounted between frames 1210 and 1220 on the upper right side of the pod 1300. Similarly, the right-side skin layer 1240 is attached at its lower corner (or corner region) to a fourth (lower) connector 1362 mounted between frames 1210 and 1220 on the lower right side of the pod 1300.

[0082] The office pod 1300 further comprises a ceiling structure 1370 and a floor structure 1380 attached to the front load-bearing frame 1210 and the rear load-bearing frame 1220.

[0083] In certain embodiments, the ceiling structure 1370 is configured to implement a ventilation function. For this purpose, in certain embodiments, the ceiling structure 1370 includes an integrated ventilation system 1271.

[0084] In certain embodiments, as shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the office pod 1300 includes a first corner piece 1393 located at the upper left corner of the pod 1300, between the front load-bearing frame 1210 and the rear load-bearing frame 1220. Similarly, a second corner piece 1394 is located at the upper right corner of the pod 1300, between the front load-bearing frame 1210 and the rear load-bearing frame 1220.

[0085] Figures 10A and 10B further show the lower connectors, i.e., the second and fourth connectors 1352 and 1362 integrated with the floor structure 1380.

[0086] Furthermore, Figures 10A and 10B show the left epidermal layer 1230, which is formed from two subpieces 1230a and 1230b. Similarly, the right epidermal layer 1240 is formed from two subpieces 1240a and 1240b.

[0087] The skin layers 1230, 1240, formed from multiple subpieces (in this case, two subpieces), provide cross-dimensional rigidity (lateral bracing) to the front and rear load-bearing frames 1210, 1220. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the separate connected subpieces 1230a and 1230b (1240a and 1240b, respectively) of the skin layers 1230, 1240 between the frames 1210, 1220 are generally in the form of a planar and uniform surface (forming a sound-insulating layer) to provide desired acoustic behavior. Desired acoustic behavior means (metaphorically) the drumhead-like vibration behavior of the sidewalls.

[0088] Figure 11A shows a close-up view of a specific detail of the office pod 1300. Thus, Figure 11A shows a row of optional mounting points between the rightmost mounting point 1231 in the upper right corner (or corner region) of the left skin layer 1230 and the leftmost mounting point 1232 in the upper left corner (or corner region) of the left skin layer 1230. In a particular embodiment, the left skin layer 1230 is attached to the first connector 1251 via these mounting points. The same applies to the right side wall.

[0089] Figure 11B shows a magnified view of another detail of the office pod 1300. Thus, Figure 11B shows the right-side skin layer 1240 formed from subpieces 1240a and 1240b, and the cured configuration 1240c at the joint or joint area of ​​subpieces 1240a and 1240b. The central cured configuration (or shape) 1240c provides anti-bulging support to the side wall when a person leans against it (without degrading the desired acoustic behavior). The same applies to the left-side wall.

[0090] Figure 12 shows a magnified view of yet another detail of the office pod 1300. Thus, Figure 12 shows the left skin layer 1230 attached to the first connector 1251 at the rightmost mounting point 1231 in the upper right corner (or corner region) of the left skin layer 1230, and the first connector 1251 attached to the front load-bearing frame 1210 so that the left skin layer 1230 is set on the front load-bearing frame 1210. The same applies to the right side wall.

[0091] Figure 13 shows a magnified view of yet another detail of the office pod 1300. Thus, Figure 13 shows the left skin layer 1230 attached to the first connector 1251 at the rightmost mounting point 1231 in the upper right corner (or corner region) of the left skin layer 1230. Figure 13 further shows the first corner piece 1393 attached to the left skin layer 1230 at the same mounting point 1231. In certain embodiments, as shown in Figure 13, the ends of the left skin layer 1230 and the first corner piece 1393 are bent so that they overlap each other. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the bent portion forms a pocket for receiving an add-on rail 1235 (figuratively shown) for providing a system for attaching additional parts or accessories such as shelves, desktop tables, or whiteboards to the pod. The same applies to the right side wall.

[0092] Figure 14 shows further details of the office pod 1300 according to a particular embodiment. In these embodiments, the office pod 1300 includes an optional cross brace 1555 between the front load-bearing frame 1210 and the rear load-bearing frame 1220. This additional cross brace 1555 is positioned within the wall structure behind the skin layer 1240 (when approaching the interior of the pod 1300 from the outside). The purpose of the cross brace 1555 is to provide anti-bulging support to the side wall in question when a person leans against the side wall from the inside of the office pod. The actual structure of the cross brace 1555 depends on the implementation.

[0093] Figure 15 shows a similar cross brace 1555 within the office pod 100. Figure 15 further shows the first and second sound-absorbing layers 245, 246 behind the right-side skin layer 240. Figure 15 further shows a hollow bar 1666 mounted between the front load-bearing frame 110 and the rear load-bearing frame 120. In certain embodiments, the hollow bar 1666 does not provide cross-dimensional rigidity (although it may in other embodiments), but houses the main voltage electrical components within the pod structure and provides mounting to a working surface (not shown). In certain embodiments, the hollow bar provides a fire enclosure for the main voltage electrical components of the pod, thereby eliminating the need for a separate fire enclosure for the main voltage electrical components. When functioning as such a fire enclosure, the hollow bar is made of a non-combustible material such as metal, preferably steel, or flame-retardant plastic, preferably 5VA plastic.

[0094] Figure 16 shows a three-dimensional partial view of the right-side surface layer 140, the first sound-absorbing layer 245, and the inner liner 246 that contacts the rear load-bearing frame 120.

[0095] Figure 17 shows the location of mounting points for a single-piece skin layer (e.g., skin layer 240) according to a particular embodiment. To provide cross-dimensional rigidity, in a particular embodiment, the skin layer 240 has at least three mounting points 24X in the peripheral region of the skin layer. Figure 17 shows a particular alternative for their positioning.

[0096] Figure 18 shows the location of attachment points for a skin layer formed from multiple subpieces (here, two subpieces 240a and 240b) according to a particular embodiment. In embodiments where the subpieces are joined together (far left figure), through a similar curing arrangement, the skin layer (combination) 240 has at least three attachment points 24X in the peripheral region of the skin layer 240. When the subpieces 240a and 240b are not joined together (so that subpieces 240a and 240b can move relative to each other), the requirement of at least three attachment points applies separately to both subpieces (as shown above in relation to Figure 17) (far right figure).

[0097] In certain embodiments, four or more mounting points are implemented instead of three.

[0098] Various embodiments have been presented. It should be understood that in this document, the terms “comprise,” “include,” and “contain” are used as open-ended expressions without intended exclusivity.

[0099] Without limiting the scope and interpretation of the claims, the following are some of the specific technical effects of one or more exemplary embodiments disclosed herein: A technical effect is a lighter office pod structure compared to conventional pods formed from heavy modular sidewall structures, while achieving good sound insulation, particularly in the human speech frequency range. Another technical effect is a simpler and easier pod assembly due to a simplified structure containing fewer parts and / or material layers. Another technical effect is more economical pod manufacturing due to savings in raw materials. Another technical effect is enabling a thin wall structure suitable for office pod use, providing good sound insulation, particularly in the human speech frequency range, as well as thicker wall structures known previously. Another technical effect is a more environmentally friendly but sound-insulating office pod and / or wall structure, resulting from reduced material consumption and reduced energy consumption in logistics due to smaller and lighter shipments. Another technical effect is providing a wall structure, or office pod having a wall structure, that minimizes health hazards during construction, assembly, and / or use. Another technical benefit is to provide an office pod without corner posts or supports for ease of assembly and / or improved rigidity. Another technical benefit is to achieve two or more of the above benefits simultaneously.

[0100] The above description provides a complete and useful description of the best mode currently envisioned by the inventors for carrying out the present invention, as non-limiting examples of specific implementations and embodiments. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the details of the embodiments presented above and can be implemented in other embodiments using equivalent means or in different combinations of embodiments without departing from the features of the present invention.

[0101] Furthermore, some of the features of the exemplary embodiments disclosed above may be used to the advantage of the invention without corresponding use of other features. Thus, the foregoing description shall be considered merely illustrative of the principles of the invention and not limiting them. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is limited only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. It is an office pod that surrounds an inner soundproof workspace, A front load-bearing frame equipped with a door, comprising a front load-bearing frame that constitutes the outermost enclosing element of the front wall, The rear load-bearing frame constitutes the outermost enclosing element of the rear wall, A surface layer comprising sound-insulating material, positioned on both the left and right sides of the office pod, which constitutes the outer surface of the office pod, wherein the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame are connected to each other by a surface layer attached between the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame, providing cross-dimensional rigidity to the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame, and providing lateral bracing to the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame to maintain the rectangular shape of the office pod, and comprising a surface layer, A sound-absorbing material layer following the aforementioned surface layer, Equipped with, The ceiling structure is further attached to the aforementioned front load-bearing frame and the aforementioned rear load-bearing frame, A chassis having cross-dimensional support is formed from the surface layer, the front load-bearing frame, and the rear load-bearing frame. Office pod.

2. The surface layer is formed from a single piece and has a flat and uniform surface morphology, and is located between the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame, or The surface layer is formed from two or more subpieces, and these two or more subpieces generally have a planar and uniform surface morphology. The office pod according to claim 1.

3. The office pod according to claim 1, wherein the surface layer is the only sound-insulating layer within the side wall structure.

4. The office pod according to claim 1, comprising a sound-absorbing element formed from the sound-absorbing material layer and an air layer.

5. Claim 1 further comprises an inner liner layer having a higher flow resistance than the sound-absorbing material layer. The office pod described above.

6. The office pod according to claim 3, wherein the total mass of the side wall structure is at most half or one-third of the total mass of either the front wall having the front load-bearing frame or the rear wall having the rear load-bearing frame.

7. The office pod according to claim 1, further comprising the surface layer which is less rigid than either the front load-bearing frame or the rear load-bearing frame.

8. The office pod according to claim 1, wherein the surface layer is directly attached to the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame.

9. The office pod according to claim 1, wherein the surface layer is indirectly attached to the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame.

10. The office pod according to claim 9, comprising a connector connecting the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame, wherein the surface layer is attached to the connector.

11. A method for assembling an office pod according to any one of claims 1 to 10, - First, a front load-bearing frame and a rear load-bearing frame facing each other are provided, then the front load-bearing frame and the rear load-bearing frame are connected by directly attaching the right and left surface layers to form the outer surface of the office pod and the chassis of the office pod is assembled by forming a cross-dimensional rigid chassis, and thereafter, A method comprising: attaching further parts of the office pod to the chassis in order to form a completed office pod.

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