Patent Publication Number: US-2011068242-A1

Title: Partition panel system and mounting bracket assembly therefor

Description:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to partition systems, and in particular to an off-module panel connector and related method. 
     Modern offices, and more particularly office partition systems, are becoming increasingly complicated and sophisticated due largely to the ever-increasing needs of the users for improved reconfigurability, functionality, utility support, and the need for additional readily attachable furniture components. 
     The efficient use of building floor space is an ever-growing concern, particularly as building costs continue to escalate. In an effort to reduce these costs, open office plans have been developed, wherein generally large, open floor spaces are equipped with modular furniture systems which are readily reconfigurable to accommodate the ever-changing needs of a specific user, as well as the divergent requirements of different tenants. One arrangement commonly used for furnishing these open spaces includes movable partition panels which are detachably interconnected in a preselected configuration to partition or segment the open spaces into individual workstations and/or offices. Such partition panels can be set up or installed in a variety of configurations, and are reconfigurable, thereby responding to the changing needs of the office environment. For example, to allow for maximum design flexibility, the partitions should be configurable such that the panels can be attached in either an “on-module” configuration, wherein the panels are interconnected to the main run of panels (also called the “spine wall”) at the ends thereof, or an “off-module” configuration, wherein the panels are interconnected to the “spine wall” intermediate the ends thereof. 
     Typically, these partition systems also include a series of horizontal and vertical slots or openings disposed along the top and side edges of the panel, respectively. The slots are designed to receive hang-on furniture accessories, such as worksurfaces, overhead cabinets, shelves, binder bins, etc., generally known in the office furniture industry as “systems furniture”. These partition systems may also include modular furniture components which address the increased need and desirability for distributing utilities throughout the various offices in a manner which can be readily reconfigured. The term “utilities”, as used herein, is meant to include a wide variety of facilities and/or components for use at a workstation and includes security devices, electrical power, signal and/or communications, HVAC, water and other fluids, and other similar resources. The ability to provide the worker with ready access to all of these utilities is clearly advantageous in the quest to promote worker well-being and effectiveness. These types of modular furniture systems, as well as others, have been well received due largely to their ability to be readily reconfigured and/or moved to a new site since they are not part of a permanent leasehold improvement. 
     In order to gain increased efficiency in the use of expensive office real estate, attempts are now being made to support high paid knowledge workers with these types of modular furniture systems in open office settings. However, in order to ensure peak efficiency of such knowledge workers, the workstations must be equipped with these various state-of-the-art utilities and facilities as discussed above. Additionally, these same workstations must be readily reconfigurable to effectively meet the ever-changing needs of the user. 
     The distribution and control of utilities throughout a comprehensive open office plan, while simultaneously providing for the unique requirements of the office user, has emerged as a major challenge to the office furniture industry. Accordingly, a furniture construction solving the aforementioned problems is desired. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     One aspect of the present invention is a partition system of the type having at least first and second partition panels, each including a generally rectangular frame defined by rigidly interconnected top, bottom and opposite side members, with a plurality of horizontal slots extending along the top member, a plurality of vertical slots extending along the opposite side members, and at least one vertically oriented mounting aperture disposed adjacent one end of the top member. A skin covers at least a major portion of the frame, while leaving the horizontal slots and the vertical slots exposed. The partition system includes an off-module connector detachably connecting the first partition panel with the second partition panel in a non-parallel, angular relationship at a location on the first partition panel between the opposite side members thereof. The off-module connector includes a top connector bracket having a hook portion thereof detachably engaged in one of the horizontal slots on the first partition panel, a plate portion thereof positioned generally opposite the hook portion, and including at least one vertically oriented fastener aperture positioned to mate with the mounting aperture on the second partition panel. A first fastener is inserted through the fastener aperture in the top connector bracket and is engaged in the mounting aperture on the second partition panel. The off-module connector also includes a bottom connector bracket having a hook portion thereof detachably engaged in one of the vertical slots on the second partition panel, a plate portion thereof positioned generally opposite the hook portion of the bottom connector bracket, and including at least one horizontally oriented fastener aperture positioned overlying the skin of the first partition panel at a vertical location aligned with the bottom member of the first partition panel. A second fastener is inserted into the fastener aperture in the bottom bracket, extends through the skin of the first partition panel, and is anchored in the bottom member of the first partition panel to securely, yet removably, mount the second partition panel on the first partition panel in an off-modular relationship. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is a partition having at least first and second panels, each including a frame defined by rigidly interconnected top, bottom and opposite side members, with a plurality of horizontal slots extending along the top member, a plurality of vertical slots extending along the opposite side members, and at least one mounting surface disposed adjacent the top member and an end thereof. A skin covers at least a portion of the frame, while leaving the horizontal slots and the vertical slots exposed. The partition includes an off-module connector detachably connecting the first panel with the second panel in a non-parallel, angular relationship at a location on the first panel between the opposite side members thereof. The off-module bracket includes a top connector bracket having a hook portion thereof detachably engaged in one of the horizontal slots on the first panel, and a plate portion thereof detachably connected with the mounting surface on the second panel. The off-module connector also includes a bottom connector bracket having a hook portion thereof detachably engaged in one of the vertical slots on the second panel, and a plate portion thereof including at least one horizontally oriented fastener aperture positioned overlying the skin of the first panel at a vertical location aligned with the bottom member on the first panel. A fastener is inserted into the fastener aperture in the bottom connector bracket, extends through the skin of the first panel, and is anchored in the bottom member of the first panel to securely, yet removably, mount the second panel on the first panel in an off-modular relationship. 
     Yet another aspect of the present invention is an off-module connector for partition systems of the type having at least first and second panels, each including a generally rectangular frame defined by rigidly interconnected top, bottom and opposite side members, with a plurality of horizontal slots extending along the top member, a plurality of vertical slots extending along the opposite side members, and at least two vertically oriented mounting apertures adjacent opposite ends of the top member. A skin covers at least a major portion of the frame, while leaving the horizontal slots and the vertical slots exposed. The off-module connector includes a top bracket having a hook portion thereof shaped for detachable engagement in one of the horizontal slots on the first partition panel, a plate portion thereof positioned generally opposite the hook portion, and including at least one vertically oriented fastener aperture positioned to mate with one of the mounting apertures on the second partition panel. A first fastener is inserted through the fastener aperture in the top connector bracket, and extends into the one mounting aperture on the second panel. The off-module connector also includes a bottom connector bracket having a hook portion thereof shaped for detachable engagement in one of the vertical slots of the second partition panel, a plate portion thereof positioned generally opposite the hook portion of the bottom connector bracket, and at least one horizontally oriented fastener aperture adapted for positioning over the skin of the first partition panel at a vertical location aligned with the bottom member of the first partition panel. A second fastener is inserted into the fastener aperture on the bottom connector bracket, extends through the skin of the first partition panel, and is anchored in the bottom member of the first partition panel to securely, yet removably, mount the second partition panel on the first partition panel in a non-parallel, off-modular relationship. 
     Yet another aspect of the present invention is a method for detachably interconnecting partition panels in a non-parallel, off-modular relationship. The method includes providing first and second partition panels, each including a frame defined by rigidly interconnected top, bottom and opposite side members, with a plurality of horizontal slots extending along the top member, a plurality of vertical slots extending along the opposite side members, and at least two mounting surfaces disposed adjacent opposite ends of the top member. A skin covers at least a portion of the frame, while leaving the horizontal slots and the vertical slots exposed. The method further includes providing a top connector bracket having a hook portion thereof shaped for detachable engagement in one of the horizontal slots on the first partition panel, and a plate portion thereof positioned generally opposite the hook portion. The method further includes inserting the hook portion of the top connector bracket into a selected one of the horizontal slots on the first partition panel to detachably retain the same therein. The method further includes detachably connecting the plate portion of the top connector bracket with one of the mounting surfaces on the second partition. The method further includes providing a bottom connector bracket having a hook portion thereof shaped for detachable engagement in one of the vertical slots on the second partition panel, a plate portion thereof positioned generally opposite the hook portion of the bottom connector bracket, and including at least one horizontally oriented fastener aperture positioned for overlying the skin on the first partition panel at a vertical location aligned with the bottom member of the first partition panel. The method further includes inserting the hook portion of the bottom connector bracket into a selected one of the vertical slots on the second partition panel to detachably retain the same therein. Finally, the method further includes inserting a fastener into the fastener aperture in the bottom connector bracket, driving the fastener through the skin of the first partition panel, and anchoring the fastener in the bottom portion of the first partition panel to securely, yet removably, mount the first partition panel on the second partition panel in an off-modular relationship. 
     Yet another aspect of the present invention is a partition system of the type having at least first and second partition panels, each including a generally rectangular frame defined by rigidly interconnected top, bottom and opposite side members, with a plurality of horizontal slots extending along the top member, and vertically oriented mounting apertures disposed adjacent opposite ends of the top member and the bottom member. A skin covers at least a major portion of the frame, while leaving the horizontal slots exposed. The partition system includes an off-module connector detachably connecting the first partition panel with the second partition panel in a non-parallel, angular relationship at a location on the first partition panel between the opposite side members thereof. The off-module connector further includes a top connector bracket having a hook portion thereof detachably engaged in one of the horizontal slots on the first partition, a plate portion thereof positioned generally opposite of the hook portion, and at least one vertically oriented fastener aperture positioned to mate with a first one of the mounting apertures adjacent the top member on the second partition panel. A first fastener is inserted through the fastener aperture in the top connector bracket and is engaged in the first mounting aperture adjacent the top member on the second partition panel. The off-module connector also includes a rack having a plurality of horizontal slots extending along the length thereof, and connected with the first partition panel at a location generally below the bottom member thereof, such that the horizontal slots therein are accessible. The off-module connector also includes a bottom connector bracket having a hook portion thereof detachably engaged in at least one of the horizontal slots of the rack on the first partition panel, a plate portion thereof positioned generally opposite the hook portion of the bottom connector bracket, and including at least one vertically oriented fastener aperture positioned to mate with a second one of the mounting apertures adjacent the bottom member of the second partition panel. A second fastener is inserted into the fastener aperture in the bottom connector bracket, and is engaged in the second mounting aperture adjacent the bottom member on the second partition panel to securely, yet removably, mount the second partition panel on the first partition panel in an off-modular relationship. 
     Yet another aspect of the present invention is a mounting bracket for removably mounting an accessory on a partition panel having a rigid frame with opposite side members having vertical hanger slots extending along the length thereof. The mounting bracket includes first and second side bracket members, each having an upper portion thereof and a rearward portion thereof with a plurality of hooks configured for close reception in the vertical hanger slots on the opposite side members of the panel frame to detachably support the first and second side bracket members on the panel frame in a laterally spaced apart, horizontally aligned relationship. The mounting bracket also includes a back member extending between and operably connected with the upper portions of the first and second side bracket members, and having a generally rectangular back panel normally disposed at a vertical orientation, and defined by an upper edge, a lower edge, and opposite side edges, as well as an upper flange extending along the upper edge of the back panel and protruding forwardly thereof, a lower flange extending along the lower edge of the back panel and protruding forwardly thereof in a generally parallel relationship with the upper flange, and first and second side flanges extending along the opposite side edges of the back panel and protruding forwardly thereof in a generally perpendicular relationship with the upper and lower flanges. The first and second side flanges each have a forward portion thereof with a plurality of vertical support slots configured to receive and detachably retain therein a hanger portion of an associated accessory to detachably support the accessory on the mounting bracket. 
     Yet another aspect of the present invention is a mounting bracket assembly for removably mounting an accessory on a partition panel of the type having a rigid frame defined, at least in part, by opposite side members with vertical hanger slots extending along the length thereof. The mounting bracket assembly includes first and second side bracket members, each having a rearward portion thereof with a plurality of hooks configured for close reception in the vertical hanger slots on the opposite side members of the panel frame to detachably support the first and second side bracket members on the panel frame in a laterally spaced apart, horizontally aligned relationship, and a forward portion thereof with a plurality of vertical support slots configured to receive and detachably retain therein a hanger portion of an associated accessory to detachably support the accessory on the mounting bracket assembly. The hooks on the rearward portion of each of the first and second bracket members are disposed at an angle relative to the vertical support slots on the forward portion of each of the first and second bracket members, such that after insertion of the hooks into the vertical hanger slots in the opposite side members of the panel frame, the first and second bracket members are pivoted laterally to shift the same into an installed position, wherein the support slots on the first and second bracket members assume a forwardly facing, generally parallel relationship. The mounting bracket also includes a back member extending between the first and second bracket members, and being detachably connected therewith to retain the same in the installed position, and thereby positively prevent inadvertent dislodgement of the mounting bracket assembly from the panel frame. 
     Yet another aspect of the present invention is a partition panel of the type having a generally rectangular frame with opposite faces defined by rigidly interconnected top, bottom and opposite side members, and a plurality of vertical slots extending along the opposite side members. The partition panel includes an adapter assembly for horizontally dividing one of the opposite faces of the partition panel into separate upper and lower portions. The adapter assembly includes an adapter bracket extending generally horizontally between the opposite side members of the panel frame at a preselected vertical position intermediate the top member and the bottom member of the frame to define the upper and lower portions of the one face of the frame. The adapter bracket includes upper and lower skin retainer surfaces, and inwardly turned hooks at opposite ends of the adapter bracket which are engaged in the vertical slots in the opposite side members of the frame to detachably support the adapter bracket at the preselected vertical position. The adapter assembly also includes an upper skin shaped to enclose the upper portion of the one panel face, and having at least one connector received on and retained against the upper skin retainer surface of the adapter bracket to, at least in apart, removably support the upper skin on the frame. Finally, the adapter assembly includes a lower skin shaped to enclose the lower portion on the one panel face, and having at least one connector received on and retained against the lower skin retainer channel of the adapter bracket to, at least in part, removably support the lower skin on the frame. 
     These and other features, advantages and objects of the present invention will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art by reference to the following written specification, claims and appended drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of a partition arrangement embodying the present invention, configured to form a plurality of individual office spaces; 
         FIG. 1A  is a fragmentary perspective view of section  2  of  FIG. 1 , showing a spine wall partition having one off-module partition attached to the spine wall partition using the first embodiment of the present invention that includes top and bottom brackets shown in a disassembled condition; 
         FIG. 2  is a fragmentary perspective view of the spine wall and off-module partition arrangement shown in  FIG. 1 , wherein the spine wall and the off-module partitions are fully assembled, and wherein portions thereof are broken away to reveal internal construction; 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a pair of the top brackets; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a pair of the bottom brackets; 
         FIG. 5  is a fragmentary perspective view of  FIG. 2  with the top and bottom brackets exploded therefrom; 
         FIG. 6A  is a fragmentary vertical cross-sectional view of one of the bottom brackets attached to an associated panel frame; 
         FIG. 7  is a fragmentary perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, having a bottom bracket including a rack portion and a clip portion; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the rack of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is an enlarged perspective view of the clip of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 10  is an exploded fragmentary perspective view of the bracket and clip of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 11  is a fragmentary perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, comprising an up-mount bracket installed on a partition panel; 
         FIG. 11A  is a fragmentary top plan view of the up-mount bracket of  FIG. 11 ; 
         FIG. 12  is an exploded fragmentary perspective view of the up-mount bracket of  FIG. 11 , including an accessory exploded therefrom; 
         FIG. 13  is a fragmentary cross-sectional view of the up-mount bracket of  FIG. 11  installed on a partition frame and including an associated accessory attached thereto; 
         FIG. 13A  is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, comprising a segmented skin adapter; 
         FIG. 13B  is a vertical cross-sectional view of the segmented skin adapter of  FIG. 13A ; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of a bracket portion of the segmented skin adapter shown installed on a partition panel frame; 
         FIG. 15  is a front perspective view of the bracket of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  is a rear perspective view of the bracket of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 17  is an exploded fragmentary perspective view of the bracket of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 17A  is a fragmentary enlarged view of an interior portion of one of the covering skins; 
         FIG. 18  is a perspective view of the bracket of  FIG. 14  installed on a partition frame with a pair of covering skins exploded therefrom; 
         FIG. 19  is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention, comprising an up-mount bracket assembly to connect an accessory to an associated partition panel frame using a pair of side brackets and a back panel; 
         FIG. 20  is a side elevational view of the side bracket of  FIG. 19 , taken from an exterior side thereof; 
         FIG. 21  is a side elevational view of the side bracket of  FIG. 19 , taken from an interior side thereof; 
         FIG. 22  is a front elevational view of the side bracket of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 23  is an enlarged lateral cross-sectional view of the side bracket of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 24  is a top panel view of the back panel of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 25  is a front elevational view of the back panel of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 26  is an end elevational view of the back panel of  FIG. 19 ; 
         FIG. 27  is an enlarged fragmentary view of a first corner portion of the back panel of  FIG. 19 ; and 
         FIG. 28  is an enlarged fragmentary view of a second portion of the back panel of  FIG. 19 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     For purposes of description herein, the terms “upper,” “lower,” “right,” “left,” “rear,” “front,” “vertical,” “horizontal,” and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as oriented in  FIG. 1 . However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative orientations and step sequences, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification are exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise. 
     A partition construction  2  embodying the present invention is shown in an office environment in  FIG. 1 . Nonetheless, it is specifically contemplated that the present inventive concepts can be used successfully in many different environments. For example, an exemplary partition system that can be used with the present inventive concepts is disclosed in detail in U.S. Pat. No. 6,481,163 entitled “PARTITION PANEL,” filed on Oct. 20, 2000; U.S. Pat. No. 6,591,563 entitled “PANEL SYSTEM,” filed on Jun. 15, 2001; U.S. Pat. No. 6,625,935 entitled “PARTITION SYSTEM WITH WORK TOOLS,” filed Oct. 20, 2000; and U.S. Pat. No. 7,210,270 entitled “PARTITION SYSTEM WITH ELEVATED RACEWAY,” filed Oct. 20, 2000, all of which are assigned to Steelcase Development Inc. and/or their related company, Steelcase Inc., the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
     In the illustrated partition system, the various partition panels  10 ,  12  and/or  14  can be configured in any one of a plurality of “on-module” or “off-module” relationships. Advantageously, this allows the partition panels  10 ,  12  and/or  14  to be selectively configured and reconfigured into different office arrangements  5 . For example, workstations or offices  5  may be selectively configured and/or reconfigured to have different sizes, shapes and/or numbers of offices while the same partition frames  16  and partition covers  30  are used. To illustrate,  FIG. 1  shows an office arrangement wherein four partition panels  12  and  14  are attached to one side of a main run of partitions  10  in a perpendicular relationship to form three offices  5 , while three partition panels  12  are attached to the other side in a perpendicular relationship to form two larger offices  5 . It is to be understood that any or each of the offices  5  on either side of the main run of partitions  10  or “spine wall” can be selectively made larger or smaller, and can be made to have different sizes and shapes, merely by selective rearrangement and reattachment of the partition panels  12  and/or  14 . Notably, in the partition arrangements shown in  FIG. 1 , several of the partition panels  14  are in “off-module” locations, wherein the partition is disposed intermediate the ends of an associated spine wall partition  10 . Such “off-module” partitions or panels may interfere with removing the covers  30  disposed on the face  6  of the spine wall partitions or panels  10 . Thus, covers  30 , disposed on the partitions that make up spine wall  10 , cannot be pulled perpendicularly off of the face  6  of the spine wall in order to gain access to electrical/communication wires disposed therein. One aspect of the present off-module connector system solves this problem by allowing the off-module partition  14  to be easily removed from spine wall  10 , thereby allowing access to covers  30  disposed on spine wall  10  and therefore, to the electrical/communication wires and equipment disposed therein. 
     With regard to  FIG. 1 , partition construction  2  includes a main run of partitions  10  (herein referred to as “spine wall”), and a plurality of perpendicularly attached partitions  12  and  14  (herein referred to as “fin walls”). In addition, fin wall partitions  12  and  14  can be subdivided into “on-module” partitions  12 , which are interconnected to spine wall partitions  10  at the ends thereof, and “off-module” partitions  14 , which are interconnected to spine wall partitions  10  intermediate the ends thereof. The partitions  10 ,  12  and  14  may have identical partition frames  16 , or the frames may be different. For example, it is contemplated that the partitions making up the spine wall will have a high degree of utility carrying capability, while the fin wall partitions may have a lesser utility carrying capability, depending on the functional requirements of the customer. 
     Piercing Off-Module Connector 
     An off-module attachment system is illustrated in  FIGS. 1A and 2 , wherein partition system  2  includes at least first and second partition panels  10  and  14 , respectively, each including a generally rectangular frame  16  defined by rigidly interconnected top  18 , bottom  20  and opposite side members  22 , with a plurality of horizontal slots  24  extending along top member  18  and a plurality of vertical slots  26  extending along opposite side members  22 . At least two vertically oriented mounting apertures  28  are disposed adjacent opposite ends of top member  18 , and a skin  30  covers at least a major portion of frame  16 , while leaving slots  24  and  26  exposed. The off-module attachment system detachably connects first partition panel  10  with second partition panel  14  in a non-parallel, angular relationship at a location on first partition panel  10  between opposite side members  22  thereof. 
     The off-module attachment system shown in  FIGS. 1-6A  includes at least one top connector bracket  32  having a hook portion  36  detachably engaged in one of the horizontal slots  24  on top member  18  of first partition panel  10 , and a plate portion  38  positioned generally opposite hook portion  36 , which includes at least one vertically oriented fastener aperture  40  positioned to mate with one of the mounting apertures  28  on second partition panel  14 . A first fastener  56  is inserted through fastener aperture  40  in top connector bracket  32  and is engaged in mounting aperture  28  on second partition panel  14 . 
     The off-module attachment system shown in  FIGS. 1-6A  also includes a bottom connector bracket  34  having a hook portion  42  ( FIG. 4 ) detachably engaged in one of the vertical slots  26  on the side member  22  of second partition panel  14 , and a plate portion  44  positioned generally opposite hook portion  42  of bottom connector bracket  34 , which includes at least one horizontally oriented fastener aperture  46  positioned to overlie skin  30  of first partition panel  10  at a vertical location which is aligned with bottom member  20  of first partition panel  10 . A second fastener  62  is inserted into fastener aperture  46  in bottom connector bracket  34 , extends through the skin  30  of first partition panel  10  and is anchored into bottom member  20  of first partition panel  10  to securely, yet removably, mount second partition panel  14  on first partition panel  10  in an off-modular relationship. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of top connector brackets  32  and  32 ′ and a pair of bottom connector brackets  34  and  34 ′ are used in the manner shown in  FIGS. 1A ,  2 ,  5  and  6 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 3 , top connector bracket  32  includes a hook portion  36  which detachably engages one of said horizontal slots  24  disposed on spine wall partition  10  (as described in more detail below) and a plate portion  38  positioned generally opposite hook portion  36 . Plate portion  38  includes at least one vertically oriented fastening aperture  40  which, upon installation, is positioned to mate with one of the vertically oriented mounting apertures  28  on off-module partition  14 . In the illustrated embodiment, top connecter bracket  32  is generally flat, wherein hook portion  36  and plate portion  38  are substantially coplanar, and plate portion  38  includes a pair of vertically oriented fastening apertures  40  spaced a predetermined distance from one another, while hook portion  36  protrudes laterally outwardly from plate portion  38  with respect to its longitudinal axis. 
     With reference to  FIG. 4 , bottom connector bracket  34  includes a hook portion  42  which detachably engages one of vertical slots  26  disposed on off-module partition  14  (as described below) and a plate portion  44  positioned generally opposite hook portion  42 . Plate portion  44  also includes at least one horizontally oriented fastening aperture  46 . Upon installation, connector bracket  34  is positioned in a vertical slot  26  on the side member  22  of partition frame  16 , such that aperture  46  overlies the skin or covering  30  on spine wall partition  10  at a vertical location on spine wall  10  which is aligned with bottom frame member  20 . In the illustrated embodiment, bottom connector bracket  34  is generally flat, whereby hook portion  42  and plate portion  44  are substantially coplanar, while hook portion  42  protrudes vertically upward from plate portion  44  with respect to its longitudinal axis. 
     Top off-module connector bracket  32  and bottom connector bracket  34  are installed in the following manner. It is to be understood that top off-module connector bracket  32 ′ and bottom connector bracket  34 ′ are installed in the same manner. As best illustrated in  FIGS. 2-6 , top off-module connector bracket  32  is installed by first inserting the hook portion  36  of top connector bracket  32  into one of the horizontal slots  24  on the top frame member  18  of spine wall partition  10 . Hook portion  36  is inserted into one of the horizontal slots  24  by first engaging free end portion  48  into slot  24  while an edge  49  of plate portion  38  is disposed in a generally parallel manner with respect to horizontal slots  24 . Top connector bracket  32  is then rotated outwardly to position the edge  50  of hook portion  36  on the inside surface  52  of the frame  16  adjacent horizontal slot  24 , thereby finally positioning top connector bracket  32  such that edge  49  is disposed perpendicular to horizontal slots  24  in the manner shown in  FIGS. 2 and 6 . When installed in this manner, the vertically oriented fastening apertures  40  on the plate portion  38  of top connector bracket  32  are aligned with vertically oriented fastening apertures  28  on off-module partition  14  when the off-module panel  14  is positioned adjacent spine wall panel  10 . A fastener  56  is inserted through apertures  40  and  28  to detachably connect plate portion  38  to off-module partition  14 . For example, two threaded fasteners  56  may be used for attaching each top connector bracket  32  to partition  14 . Although a single top connector bracket  32  may be used to connect off-module partition  14  and spine module  10 , in the illustrated embodiment of the invention shown in  FIGS. 1-10 , a pair of top connector brackets  32  and  32 ′ are used, whereby each connector bracket  32  and  32 ′ attaches the top frame member  18  of off-module partition  14  to the side frame member  22  of spine wall partition  10 , as illustrated in  FIGS. 2 and 6 . In this configuration, off-module partition  14  includes two pairs of vertically oriented apertures  28  and  28 ′, and each top bracket  32  and  32 ′ includes a pair of apertures  40  and  40 ′ that are aligned with apertures  28  and  28 ′, respectively. Threaded fasteners  56  are inserted therethrough to rigidly, yet detachably, retain off-module partition  14  to spine wall panel  10 . 
     The bottom off-module connector  34  shown in  FIGS. 1-6A  is installed by inserting the edge  58  of the hook portion  42  into one of the vertical slots  26  of off-module partition  14 . Connector bracket  34  is positioned in one of the plurality of slots  26  such that aperture  46  overlies the skin or covering  30  on spine wall panel  10  at a vertical location which is aligned with bottom frame member  20 . Bottom connecter bracket  34  is then rotated downwardly thereby engaging the edge  59  of hook portion  42  against the inside surface of frame member  22  adjacent vertical slots  26 , whereby bottom connector bracket  34  is finally positioned such that the edge  61  is disposed parallel to and adjacent vertical slots  26  ( FIG. 6 ). A fastener  62  is then inserted horizontally into aperture  46 , driven through skin covering  30 , and anchored in the bottom frame member  20  of spine wall panel  10  to securely, yet removably, mount off-module panel  14  to spine wall panel  10  in an off-module relationship. Preferably, fastener  62  is a threaded, self-piercing screw which is driven through skin covering  30  and into bottom frame member  20  for anchoring therein, without pre-drilling an associated aperture in bottom frame member  20 . Although a single bottom connector bracket  34  may be used to connect off-module panel  14  and spine wall panel  10 , in the embodiment of the invention illustrated in  FIGS. 1-6A , a pair of bottom connector brackets  34  and  34 ′ are used, wherein each connector bracket attaches side member  22  of off-module panel  14  to the face of spine wall panel  10 , as illustrated in  FIG. 2 . In this configuration, each bottom bracket  34  and  34 ′ includes apertures  46  and  46 ′ that are positioned over skin  30 , and vertically aligned over bottom frame member  20 , whereby threaded fasteners  62  are inserted thereto and through skin  30 , and into frame member  20 , thereby rigidly, yet detachably, retaining off-module panel  14  to spine wall panel  10 . 
     As noted above, connector brackets  32 ,  32 ′,  34  and  34 ′ are assembled to off-module panel  14  and spine wall panel  10  by first installing the hook portions  36  and  36 ′ on top connector brackets  32  and  32 ′ into horizontal slots  24  of spine wall panel  10 . Off-module panel  14  is then moved into position, such that apertures  28  and  28 ′ on off-module panel  14  are aligned with the apertures  40  and  40 ′ on brackets  32  and  32 ′. Fasteners  56  are threadingly and collinearly inserted through each respective aperture, thereby retaining the top portion of off-module panel  14  to the top portion of spine wall panel  10 . The hook portions  42  and  42 ′ of bottom brackets  34  and  34 ′ are then inserted into opposite vertical slots  26  on opposite sides of off-module panel  14  in a location so that apertures  46  and  46 ′ are positioned over cover member or skin  30  adjacent bottom frame member  20  of spine wall  10 . A pair of self-piercing fasteners  62  are inserted through apertures  46  and  46 ′, through skin  30  and into bottom frame member  20 , thereby securing the bottom portion of off-module panel  14  to spine wall panel  10 . Of course, a single top or bottom bracket  32  and  34 , respectively, may be used. Further, brackets  32 ,  32 ′,  34  and  34 ′ may be used either alone or in conjunction with one another to secure spine wall panel  10  and off-module panel  14 . Although the above-described process describes a particular sequence of events, the sequence may be changed as the specific requirements dictate. 
     Top connector brackets  32  and  32 ′, along with bottom connector brackets  34  and  34 ′, may be fabricated from numerous materials. Generally a rigid material is used, such that the brackets are capable of securely and rigidly connecting spine wall panel  10  to off-module panel  14 . Such materials are commonly known within the art and may include, but are not limited to, plastics, metals, ceramics and/or composites thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, steel is used. Additionally, the method of fabricating brackets  32 ,  32 ′,  34  and  34 ′ may be varied, and although the preferred embodiment is stamped, this is not meant to be limiting in any manner, and the brackets may be fabricated from any known method, including machining, stamping, molding or the like. 
     Non-Piercing Off-Module Connector 
     A second embodiment of the off-module attachment system is illustrated in  FIGS. 7-10 , wherein partition system  2  ( FIG. 7 ) includes at least first and second partition panels  10  and  14 , which are identical to previously described partition panels  10  and  14  ( FIGS. 1-6A ). The off-module attachment system shown in  FIGS. 7-10  includes a pair of top connector brackets  32  and  32 ′, which are identical to those previously described with respect to the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 1-6A . However, the previously described bottom connector brackets  34  and  34 ′ are replaced by a rack  64 , having a plurality of horizontal slots  68  extending along the length thereof. Rack  64  is connected with first partition panel  10  at a location generally below bottom member  20 , such that horizontal slots  68  remain accessible. Bottom connector bracket  66  includes a hook portion  84  detachably engaged in at least one of horizontal slots  68  of rack  64  on first partition panel  10 , and a plate portion  86  positioned generally opposite hook portion  84 , which includes at least one vertically oriented fastener aperture  90  positioned to mate with a second one of said mounting apertures  29  adjacent bottom member  20  of second partition panel  14 . A fastener  98  is inserted into fastener aperture  90  in bottom connector bracket  66 , and is engaged in mounting aperture  29  adjacent bottom member  20  on second partition panel  14  to securely, yet removably, mount second partition panel  14  on first partition panel  10  in an off-modular relationship. 
     As best illustrated in  FIGS. 7-10 , rack  64  includes a plurality of horizontal slots  68  extending along the length thereof and at least one mounting flange  70  including an aperture  71 . In one preferred embodiment, rack  64  is generally L-shaped with horizontal slots  68  disposed along one leg  72  and a pair of mounting flanges  70 , each including an aperture  71 , disposed along a generally perpendicular leg  73 . Slots  74  and  75  are disposed at opposite ends of leg  72  and are adapted to be disposed around posts  77  of glides  76  positioned at opposite ends of partitions  10 ,  12  and/or  14 . In the illustrated embodiment, rack  64  is disposed on spine wall panel  10  below bottom frame member  20 , thereby releasably connecting the frames of off-module panel  14  and spine wall panel  10  in an off-module configuration. 
     With reference to  FIG. 7 , rack  64  is disposed on spine wall panel  10 , such that rack leg  72  and corresponding horizontal slots  68  are positioned generally along the centerline of spine wall panel  10 , which is to receive off-module panel  14 . In this manner, rack  64  is non-handed, and can be used on either side of the panel  10 . The installation of rack  64  is accomplished by positioning slots  74  and  75  around the posts  77  on glides  76 , and shifting rack  64  longitudinally to engage slot recesses  74 ′ and  75 ′ of slots  74  and  75 , respectively. When shifted longitudinally, recesses  74 ′ and  75 ′ are disposed around posts  77 , and rack  64  is prevented from being removed from spine wall panel  10  without first longitudinally shifting rack  64  in the direction opposite to the direction rack  64  was shifted when rack  64  was installed. In this manner, slots  68  are accessible from the side of spine wall panel  10 , which is to receive off-module panel  14 . In this configuration, leg  73  and mounting flanges  70  are vertically disposed behind glides  76 , opposite the side of spine wall panel  10 , which is to receive off-module panel  14 , and apertures  71  of mounting flanges  70  are aligned with apertures  79  on feet  78 , thereby allowing fasteners  80  to be inserted therethrough for retaining rack  64  on spine wall panel  10 . A cover  82  may be positioned along the base of spine wall panel  10  to conceal at least a major portion of rack  64 . In this manner, horizontal slots  68  are disposed below frame member  20  and therefore, even with a cover  82  installed on spine wall panel  10 , the horizontal slots  68  are accessible for receiving bracket  66  in the manner described below. 
     With reference to  FIG. 9 , bottom connector bracket  66  includes a hook portion  84  and a plate portion  86 . In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of hooks  85  are disposed on hook portion  84  and are turned upwardly therefrom. Plate portion  86  further includes a first portion  87  and a second portion  88 . First portion  87  is disposed generally coplanar with hook portion  84 , while second portion  88  is generally parallel to first portion  87 , vertically raised therefrom, and connected by a leg  89 . Second portion  88  includes a pair of apertures  90 . 
     Hooks  85  are detachably engaged within horizontal slots  68 , as illustrated in  FIG. 7 , wherein each of the pairs of hooks  85  engage a single slot  68 . This is accomplished by angling plate portion  86  of bracket  66  upwardly and inserting the pair of hooks  85  through a bottom surface  92  of a pair of horizontal slots  68  and then rotating plate portion  86  downwardly, thereby positioning bottom connector bracket  66  in a generally horizontal orientation. A pair of fasteners  98  are inserted through apertures  90  and into a pair of vertically oriented mounting apertures  29 , disposed adjacent bottom frame member  20  of off-module partition  14 , thereby rigidly connecting off-module panel  14  to spine wall panel  10 . 
     In the illustrated embodiment, the bracket assembly is utilized to install an off-module panel  14  to a spine wall panel  10  in the following manner. As with the first embodiment ( FIGS. 1-6A ), the second embodiment ( FIGS. 7-10 ) utilizes a pair of top connector brackets  32  and  32 ′ in the manner described above. However, the bottom connector bracket, which includes rack portion  64  and bracket portion  66 , does not cause the skin  30  of spine wall panel  10  to be pierced in order to be affixed thereto. In the  FIGS. 7-10  embodiment, after top brackets  32  and  32 ′ are installed, a single rack  64  is installed horizontally below the bottom frame member  20  of spine wall panel  10 , and a single bracket  66  is attached thereto in the manner described above. The off-module panel  14  is then brought into position, and the top portion of panel  14  is secured in the manner described above with regard to the first embodiment ( FIGS. 1-6A ). The bottom portion of partition  14  is secured by inserting threaded fasteners  98  through apertures  90  of bracket  66 , and into the corresponding apertures  29  disposed adjacent lower frame member  20  of the off-module panel  14  ( FIG. 7 ). This secures the bottom portion of off-module panel  14  to spine wall panel  10 . Of course, a single top bracket  32  may be used and further, although the above-described process describes a particular sequence of steps, the sequence may be changed as the specific requirements dictate. 
     Rack  64  and bottom connector bracket  66  may be fabricated from numerous materials as described previously. In the illustrated embodiment, rack  64  and bottom connector bracket  66  are fabricated by bending a stamped sheet of steel. However, this is not meant to be limiting in any manner, and rack  64  and brackets  66  may be fabricated from any known method and from any known material as the specific requirements dictate. 
     Accessory Up-Mount Bracket 
     With reference to  FIGS. 11-13 , an accessory up-mount bracket  100  is illustrated which removably mounts an accessory, such as a storage bin, shelf or the like, on the vertically disposed slots of partition panels  10 ,  12  and/or  14  of the type described above as having a rigid frame  16  defined, at least in part, by opposite side members  22  with vertical hanger slots  26  extending along the length thereof. Up-mount bracket  100  includes first and second side bracket members  101  and  102 , respectively, each having a rearward portion  108  with a plurality of hooks  112 . Hooks  112  are configured for close reception in the vertical hanger slots  26  on opposite side members  22  of panel frame  16  to detachably support the first and second side bracket members  101  and  102  on panel frame  16  in a laterally spaced apart, horizontally aligned relationship. Up-mount bracket  100  also includes a back member  103  extending between and operably connected with the upper portions of first and second side bracket members  101  and  102 . Back member  103  has a generally rectangular back panel  104  normally disposed in a vertical orientation, and defined by an upper edge, a lower edge and opposite side edges. Back member  103  has an upper flange  124  extending along the upper edge of back panel  104 , and protruding forwardly thereof. Back member  103  also includes a lower flange  125  extending along the lower edge of back panel  104 , and protruding forwardly thereof in a generally parallel relationship with upper flange  124 . Back member  103  also has first and second side flanges  106  and  107  extending along the opposite side edges of back member  103 , and protruding forwardly thereof in a generally perpendicular relationship with the upper and lower flanges  124  and  125 . The first and second side flanges  106  and  107  each have a forward portion thereof with a plurality of vertical support slots  116  configured to receive and detachably retain therein hooks  118  on the hanger portion  126  of an associated accessory  120  to detachably support the accessory  120  on up-mount bracket  100 . 
     First and second side bracket members  101  and  102 , respectively, have generally the same configuration. Therefore, only first side bracket member  101  will be discussed in detail, and second side bracket member  102  shall be understood to have the same features, functions and configurations, unless otherwise noted. First side bracket member  101  includes an upper portion and a lower portion. The rear edge  108  on the lower portion of first side bracket member  101  extends beyond the rear edge on the upper portion, and includes a plurality of outwardly disposed hooks  112 . Hooks  112  are configured for close reception in the vertical hanger slots  26  of partitions  10 ,  12  and/or  14  to detachably support side bracket members  101  and  102  in a laterally spaced apart, horizontally aligned relationship. 
     In the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 11-13 , back panel  103 , upper flange  124 , lower flange  125 , and the first and second side flanges  106  and  107  are all integrally interconnected to define a box-shaped receptor configured to receive a rear portion of the accessory  120  therein. More specifically, back member  103  is preferably stamped from a single sheet of metal, such as steel or the like. As best illustrated in  FIG. 11A , the outer edges of the first and second side flanges  106  and  107  are doubled over, and then bent inwardly to form a generally L-shaped configuration. The vertical support slots  116  are positioned along the length of the inwardly extending portions of first and second side flanges  106  and  107 . The upper portions of first and second side bracket members  101  and  102  are inserted through the slits formed between the free ends of lower flange  125  and first and second side flanges  106  and  107 , and extend upwardly along the interior surfaces of first and second side flanges  106  and  107 . In the illustrated example, the upper portions of first and second side bracket members  101  and  102  are spot welded to the first and second side flanges  106  and  107  of back member  103  to rigidly interconnect first and second side bracket members  101  and  102  with back member  103 . 
     As best illustrated in  FIG. 12 , up-mount bracket  100  is manufactured to have the same general width as the partition panels  10 ,  12 ,  14  to which it is to be installed. More specifically, the hooks  112  on side brackets  101  and  102  are spaced to correspond and align with the vertical slots  26  disposed along opposite side edges of partitions or panels  10 ,  12  and/or  14 . Up-mount bracket  100  is installed on panels  10 ,  12  and/or  14  by positioning the hooks  112  of side brackets  101  and  102  within vertical slots  26 , whereby up-mount bracket  100  is securely retained on the partition in a generally horizontal manner. 
     As best illustrated in  FIG. 13 , accessory  120  includes rearwardly facing hanger portions  126  disposed on opposite sides. Hanger portions  126  include hooks  118  that, when disposed within the vertical slots  116  on back member  103 , securely retain accessory  120 , thereby supporting accessory  120  from the partitions  10 ,  12  and/or  14  in a cantilevered fashion. In the illustrated embodiment, hooks  112  of up-mount  100  are disposed on side bracket members  101  and  102  toward a lower or bottom end thereof, while vertical slots  116  are disposed above hooks  112  and extend to an upper or top end thereof. In this manner, hooks  112  can be installed on partitions or panels  10 ,  12  and/or  14 , while vertical slots  116  extend above the top member  122  of the partition, thereby allowing the accessory to be positioned above top  122  of the partition panel. Of course, first and second bracket members  101  and  102  may be disposed lower on the partition, whereby the accessory  120  can be disposed below the top edge of the partition. For example, in one embodiment, accessory  120  is a cabinet or storage bin that is supported above the top  122  of the partition panel to which up-mount bracket  100  is installed. Of course, various other accessories may be supported or suspended from up-mount bracket  100  including, but not limited to, worksurfaces, shelving, storage bins, lighting and the like. 
     Up-mount bracket  100  may be fabricated from numerous materials. Generally a rigid material is used, such that bracket  100  is capable of securely and rigidly connecting accessory  120  to panels  10 ,  12  and/or  14 . Such materials are commonly known within the art and may include, but are not limited to, plastics, metals, ceramics and/or composites thereof. In a preferred embodiment, steel is used. Additionally, the method of fabricating up-mount bracket  100  may be varied, and although the illustrated embodiment is fabricated by a stamping, bending and welding process, this is not meant to be limiting in any manner, and the brackets may be fabricated from any known method, including machining, molding or the like. 
     Segmented Skin Adapter 
     With reference to  FIGS. 13A-18 , there is illustrated a partition panel  10 ,  12  and/or  14  of the type described hereinabove, having a generally rectangular frame  16  with opposite faces  6  and  7  ( FIG. 1A ) defined by a rigidly interconnected top  18 , a bottom  20  and opposite side members  22 , wherein a plurality of vertical slots  26  extend along the opposite side frame members  22 . An adapter assembly  140  ( FIGS. 13A-18 ) can be used to horizontally divide one or both of the opposite faces  6  and/or  7  into separate upper and lower portions,  146  and  148 , respectively. The adapter assembly includes an adapter bracket  150  which extends generally horizontally between opposite side members  22  of panel frame  16  at a preselected vertical position intermediate the top member  18  and the bottom member  20  of frame  16  to define upper and lower portions  146  and  148 , respectively, of an associated one of the opposite faces  6  and/or  7  of frame  16 . The adapter bracket includes upper and lower skin retainer surfaces  154 ,  156 , as well as inwardly turned hooks  168  ( FIG. 15 ) at opposite ends of adapter bracket  150  which engage the vertical slots  26  in opposite side frame members  22  to detachably support the adapter bracket  150  at a preselected vertical position ( FIG. 17 ). With reference to  FIG. 13A , an upper skin  152  is shaped to enclose the upper portion  146  of panel face  6 ,  7  and includes at least one connector  176  received on and retained against said skin retainer surface  154  of the adapter bracket  150  to, at least in part, removably support upper skin  152  on frame  16 . A lower skin  153  is shaped to enclose the lower portion  148  of panel face  6 ,  7  and includes at least one connector  176  received on and retained against the skin retainer surface  156  of the adapter bracket  150  to, at least in part, removably support lower skin  153  on said frame  16 . 
     With reference to  FIG. 15 , adaptor bracket  150  includes an upper flange  154  defining the upper skin retainer surface, a lower flange  156  defining the lower skin retainer surface, and a centrally disposed skin retainer channel  158 . An upper front face portion  160  separates channel  158  from upper flange  154 , and a lower front face portion  162  separates channel  158  from lower flange  156 . Upper front face portion  160  and lower front face portion  162  include extensions  164 ,  165  and  166 ,  167  at each of the opposite ends, respectively. Channel  158  extends inwardly from front face portions  160  and  162 . With reference to  FIG. 16 , hooks  168  are disposed at the outside edges of extensions  164 ,  165 ,  166  and  167  and project rearwardly and outwardly therefrom. Hooks  168  are adapted to be closely received in the vertical slots  26  of opposite side members  22  of partition frame  16 , thereby detachably supporting adaptor bracket  150  at a preselected vertical position and subdividing the partition into a plurality of portions  146  and  148 . Portions  146  and  148  and the associated skins or coverings  152  and  153  disposed thereon are generally similar and therefore, only upper portion  146  will be discussed in detail, with it being understood that lower portion  148  has the same characteristics and features, unless otherwise noted. 
     As best illustrated in  FIG. 18 , the upper skin  152  includes a set of inner flanges  172 - 175 , each having one or more fasteners  176  disposed thereon. The inner flanges  172 - 175  of upper skin  152  are disposed adjacent the inside faces  170 ,  171  of panel frame side members  22  and the upper bracket flange  154 , whereby fasteners  176  detachably mount upper skin  152  to the upper portion  146  of frame  16 . In the illustrated embodiment, fasteners  176  are defined by a piercing, wherein flanges  172 - 175  are punched or pierced at discrete locations along the flanges to raise a portion of the flange and produce a semi-flexible protrusion  177 , as best illustrated in  FIG. 17A . Upper skin  152  is releasably retained at the upper portion  146  of frame  22  by having flange  178  engage the upper surface of panel frame top member  18 , and the protrusions  177  on flange  174  frictionally engage flanges  170  and  171  of frame  16  and flange  154  of adapter bracket  150 . Upper skin  152  also includes a set of extensions or outer flanges  178 - 181  disposed adjacent the outside edges of upper skin  152  and outwardly from inner flanges  172 - 175 . Outer flanges  178 ,  179  and  181  are received in frame channels  182  and  183  disposed in top frame member  18  and side frame members  22 , respectively, while outer flange  180  is received in center channel  158  of adapter bracket  150 . Outer flanges  178 - 181  assist with the retention and rigidity of upper skin  152 . More specifically, the rigidity of upper skin  152  is improved because outer flanges  178 - 181  provide an additional support or brace which extends along each side of the skin, thereby stiffening the edge upon which it is disposed. Furthermore, outer flanges  178 - 181  abut the adjacent surfaces of frame channels  182  and  183  to capture frame members  18  and  22 , as well as the upper portion of adapter bracket  150 , between the inner flanges  172 - 175  and the outer flanges  178 - 181 . This capturing action serves to reinforce the frame  16 , and creates a pinching action when protrusions  177  are frictionally engaged, so as to securely, yet removably, retain upper skin  152  on frame  16  and adapter bracket  150 . 
     In the illustrated example, lower skin  153  is generally similar to upper skin  152 , except that the lowest portion of lower skin  153 , disposed adjacent the bottom frame rail  20  when installed thereon, does not have an outer flange disposed thereon. This is because, in the illustrated embodiment, there is no lower frame portion or channel on bottom member  20  of frame  16 , as shown in  FIG. 18 . In addition, the preferred sequence of installing the panels is accomplished by first installing the upper panel, and then installing the lower panel, such that adapter bracket  150  remains securely attached to frame  16  during assembly. 
     As with the other embodiments of the present invention, adapter bracket  150  may be fabricated from numerous materials. Generally a rigid material is used, such that the adapter bracket is capable of securely and rigidly retaining at least a portion of a skin covering to panels  10 ,  12  and/or  14 . Such materials are commonly known within the art and may include, but are not limited to, plastics, metals, ceramics and/or composites thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, steel is used. Additionally, the method of fabricating adapter bracket  150  may be varied, and although the preferred embodiment is fabricated by a stamping and bending process, this is not meant to be limiting in any manner, and the brackets may be fabricated from any known method, including machining, molding or the like. Additionally, although the above-described adapter bracket  150  discusses and illustrates the use of a single bracket subdividing the partition frame into two equal segments, the segments do not have to be equal. Multiple adapter brackets may be used to horizontally subdivide the frame into any number of vertically stacked segments, whether equal to each other or not. Further, although the preferred sequence is to install the upper panel first and then install the adjacent lower panel, this is not meant to be limiting, and the panels may be installed in any sequence. 
     Alternate Up-Mount Bracket 
     With reference to  FIGS. 19-28 , an alternate accessory up-mount bracket assembly  240  is illustrated, which like up-mount bracket  100 , is designed to removably mount an accessory, such as a file cabinet, storage bin, shelf, worksurface or the like, to an associated partition panel  10 ,  12 ,  14 , using the vertically disposed hanger slots  26  extending along the opposite side members  22  of panel frame  16 . Alternate up-mount bracket assembly  240  includes first and second side bracket members  241  and  242 , respectively, each having a rearward portion  243  with a plurality of hooks  244  configured for close reception in the vertical hanger slots  26  on the opposite side members  22  of panel frame  16  to detachably support the first and second bracket members  241  and  242  on panel frame  16  in a laterally spaced apart, horizontally aligned relationship. Each of the first and second side bracket members  241  and  242  also includes a forward portion  245  with a plurality of vertical support slots  246  configured to receive and detachably retain therein a hanger portion  247  of an associated accessory  248  to detachably support the accessory on mounting bracket assembly  240 . The hooks  244  on the rearward portion  243  of each of the first and second side bracket members are disposed at an angle relative to the vertical support slots  246  on the forward portion  245  of side brackets  241 ,  242 , such that after insertion of hooks  244  into the vertical hanger slots  26  in the opposite side members  22  of panel frame  16 , the bracket members  241 ,  242  are pivoted laterally to shift the same into an installed position, wherein the support slots  246  on bracket members  241 ,  242  assume a forwardly facing, generally parallel relationship. A back member  149  extends between the first and second side bracket members  241  and  242 , and is detachably connected therewith to retain side bracket members  241 ,  242  in the installed position, and thereby positively prevent inadvertent dislodgement of the mounting bracket assembly  240  from the panel frame  16 . 
     As best illustrated in  FIGS. 20-23 , first and second side bracket members  241  and  242  are substantially identical, wherein each has a generally U-shaped configuration defined by first and second generally parallel legs  254  and  255 , respectively, which are connected by a base member  256 . In the illustrated example, hooks  244  are disposed at the outer end of the second leg  255 , and are oriented at an acute angle with respect thereto. Slots  246  extend along the length of base member  256 , and fastener apertures  257  are provided in first leg  254  to retain back member  249  in place, as described in greater detail hereinafter. As best illustrated in  FIG. 23 , second leg  255  is wider than first leg  254 , such that hooks  244  protrude a substantial distance inwardly from the free end of first leg  254  at the lower ends of side mounting bracket members  241 ,  242 . The upper ends of side bracket members  241 ,  242  are generally U-shaped, wherein the first leg  254  and second leg  255  are generally commensurate in width. 
     As best illustrated in  FIGS. 24-28 , back member  249  has a generally rectangular plan configuration, and includes inwardly protruding marginal flange members  258 - 261 . Flange members  258 - 261  are each oriented in a substantially perpendicular relationship to the face portion  262  of back member  249 , so as to create a box-like construction. As best illustrated in  FIGS. 27 and 28 , in the illustrated example, stiffening flanges  263  and  264  are provided along the inward edges of flanges  258 - 261  to provide additional stiffening to back member  249 . The side flanges  260  and  261  of back member  249  include horizontally extending fastener apertures  265  which are positioned to align horizontally with the fastener apertures  257  in side bracket members  241  to receive fasteners therethrough, such as threaded screws, bolts or the like. 
     In operation, alternate up-mount bracket assembly  240  is installed on an associated panel partition  10 ,  12 ,  14  in the following manner. Side mounting brackets  241 ,  242  are both positioned in a preselected vertical location along the opposite side frame members  22  of panel frame  16 , such that side bracket members  241 ,  242  assume a horizontally aligned relationship. Side bracket members  241  and  242  are pivoted about a generally vertical axis in an inward direction, such that hooks  244  are parallel with and received in the hanger slots  26  on panel frame  16 . Side bracket members  241 ,  242  are then lowered slightly to engage hooks  244  in hanger slots  26  to securely support the same. Side brackets  241 ,  242  are then pivoted back about a generally vertical axis in an outward direction, such that the support slots  246  assume a forwardly facing, generally parallel relationship that defines an installed position. In the installed position, the legs  254  and  255  of side brackets  241 ,  242  assume a generally parallel relationship. Back member  249  is then inserted between the side bracket members  241 ,  242 , such that the side flanges  260  and  261  of back member  249  abut the adjacent first legs  254  on side bracket members  241 ,  242 . Back member  249  is adjusted vertically between side members  241 ,  242 , such that the fastener apertures  265  on the side flanges  260 ,  261  of back member  249  are horizontally aligned with the fastener apertures  257  in the side bracket members  241 ,  242 . Fasteners  266 , such as threaded screws or the like, are then inserted through the horizontally aligned fastener apertures  265  and  257  to detachably, yet securely, mount back member  249  between side bracket members  241 ,  242  to create a complete assembly. The attachment of back member  249  to side bracket members  241 ,  242  positively prevents side bracket members  241 ,  242  from being rotated out of their installed position, so that the up-mount bracket assembly  240  cannot be inadvertently dislodged from the panel frame  16 . 
     In the foregoing description, it will be readily appreciated by those skilled in the art that modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the concepts disclosed herein. Such modifications are to be considered as included in the following claims, unless these claims by their language expressly state otherwise.