Patent Publication Number: US-2022232968-A1

Title: Cantilevered desk and components and method for the use thereof

Description:
This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/997,637, filed Aug. 19, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/200,250, filed Nov. 26, 2018 and now U.S. Pat. No. 10,779,640, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure relates generally to a desk, and in particular to a cantilevered desk and components, and methods for the use, assembly and reconfiguration thereof. 
     BACKGROUND 
     Workspace systems typically include desks and storage arranged to define a workspace. In some work environments, it may be desirable to maximize the open space beneath a desk, for example by cantilevering a worksurface from a wall or other support structure. Often, the support structure may include a floor engaging member that extends underneath the desk to counterbalance the worksurface, with the floor engaging member obstructing mobility and adversely affecting the open aesthetics of the system. In other systems, the desk is integrated into the support structure, such that the support structure does not have any independent function and use. 
     At the same time, it may be desirable to make the desk height adjustable, such that a user may position the worksurface for various desired tasks, while maximizing the user&#39;s ability to work in different settings, whether sitting or standing. Providing height adjustability to a cantilevered desk may be particularly challenging, however. Typically, such desks are secured to fixed anchor points, such as hanger brackets, which limit the ability of the user to customize the workspace. As such, the need remains for a cantilevered height adjustable desk with maximum clearance and variable positioning. 
     In addition, height adjustable columns typically include an actuator disposed interiorly of the column. If the actuator malfunctions, or must otherwise be accessed or replaced, the entire support column or worksurface must be removed, with the attendant problem of supporting the worksurface and other integrated structure and control systems. 
     Desks also may be configured with one or more power grommets, which provide power outlets embedded in the worksurface. Power grommets may be covered, which may obscure the underlying functionality, or uncovered, which may allow for the intrusion of dust, fluids and other debris. Typically, the power grommets do not allow for the pass through of cables, cords and the like between the upper and lower surfaces of the worksurface. 
     In addition, it is well known to secure a computer monitor or display to the desk, for example with a monitor arm that is clamped to the worksurface. Often, the monitor arm is secured to or around the edge of the worksurface, which exposes the monitor arm, hardware and adjacent passersby to various interactions, while requiring wires and the like connected to the monitor to overrun the edge of the desk. As such, the need remains for an improved power grommet that introduces variant outlet options while also providing a location for securing a monitor inwardly from the edge of the worksurface, or for routing cables between the top and bottom of the worksurface. 
     SUMMARY 
     The present invention is defined by the following claims, and nothing in this section should be considered to be a limitation on those claims. 
     In one aspect, one embodiment of a desk includes a base having a frame with upper and lower frame members extending in a longitudinal direction and opposite sides spaced apart in a lateral direction. A skin includes first and second sides and top and bottom edges. The skin is coupled to the frame, with the first side facing one of the opposite sides of the frame. A height adjustable support column assembly includes a lower mounting member coupled to the lower frame member and an upper mounting member coupled to the upper frame member. The lower mounting member extends under the bottom edge of the skin, while the upper mounting member extends over the top edge of the skin. A worksurface is coupled to the support column assembly and is cantilevered outwardly relative to the support column assembly. 
     In yet another aspect, one embodiment of a power grommet includes a housing defining an elongated cavity extending in a longitudinal direction, with the cavity being open along a top of the housing. At least first and second outlet blocks are disposed in the cavity and are accessible through the open top of the housing. A lid is pivotally connected to the housing about an axis extending perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The lid is pivotable between an open position, wherein the first and second outlet blocks are exposed along a top of the housing, and a closed position, wherein the first outlet block is exposed along a top of the housing and the second outlet block is covered by the lid. 
     In one embodiment, a desk includes an opening defined in a worksurface, with the grommet housing being received in the opening. The first and second outlet blocks are spaced apart, with a through-opening being defined between the top and bottom of the housing and between opposing sides of the spaced apart first and second outlet blocks. The through opening remains exposed when the lid is in the closed position. In one embodiment, a monitor support extends into the through-opening and is clamped to the worksurface. 
     In another aspect, a height adjustable support column assembly includes a base support and a height adjustable support column supported by the base support. The support column includes telescoping inner and outer tube members moveable along a first axis. A linear actuator is supported by the base support, but is positioned exteriorly of the inner tube member and defines a second axis spaced apart from the first axis in a parallel relationship therewith. 
     In yet another aspect, a desk includes a height adjustable support column assembly having a height adjustable support column supported by a base support. The support column includes telescoping inner and outer tube members moveable along a first axis. A linear actuator also is supported by the base support. An attachment plate is coupled to a top of the height adjustable support column. A leveling component is disposed between the height adjustable support column and the mounting plate. The leveling component is adjustable between a plurality of positions such that the attachment plate is moveable to a corresponding plurality of angular orientations relative to the top. A worksurface is coupled to the attachment plate. 
     In yet another aspect, an enclosure includes a housing having a pair of opposite side walls and a lid having a pair of cavities spaced apart along a longitudinal axis. Each of the cavities has a stop surface. A pair of springs are disposed in the cavities and engage the stop surfaces. A pair of pivot members each include a friction surface, with the pair of springs biasing the pivot members away from the stop surface and toward the side walls such that the friction surface of each pivot member engages one of the side walls of the housing. In this way, the lid may be maintained at any pivot position relative to the housing through the applied friction force, thereby requiring the user to exert a force on the lid to open or close the lid. 
     In yet another aspect, one embodiment of a method of accessing an enclosure includes pivoting a lid relative to a housing about a pivot member from a closed position to an angled open position, and exerting an axial force to the pivot member and thereby creating a friction force between the pivot member and housing sufficient to hold the lid in the angled open position. 
     The various embodiments of the desk provide significant advantages over other workspace systems, and components used therein. For example and without limitation, the cantilevered worksurface can be moved to a desired height, while maintaining a clear and open space beneath the worksurface. At the same time, the worksurface can be easily and quickly moved to various locations along the length of the frame, thereby allowing the user to easily and quickly reconfigure the workspace without reconfiguring the base or adjusting the aesthetic thereof. Or, the worksurface and height adjustable support column may be removed altogether, allowing the base to be used in a stand-alone configuration. 
     The height adjustable support column assembly also provides significant advantages. In one embodiment, wherein the linear actuator is disposed exteriorly of the inner tube, the linear actuator can be quickly and easily replaced, accessed and/or repaired without having to remove or the support column or worksurface, or disconnect those components. In this way, maintenance and repairs may be performed with minimal disruption. Moreover, the leveling component allows for the user/installer to adjust the angular positon of the worksurface, which may be particularly important where the worksurface is supported at only one location, or at only one end, in a cantilevered configuration. 
     The power grommet also provides significant advantages, presenting both covered and uncovered outlets, which communicates to the user the functionality of the grommet while obscuring and protecting at least some of the outlets. In one embodiment, the grommet also provides the ability to secure a monitor arm to the worksurface without engaging an edge of the worksurface, and/or route cables/cords/lines between the upper and lower surfaces of the worksurface, thereby eliminating the possibility of snagging the monitor arm or associated power/utility cords and lines. 
     The foregoing paragraphs have been provided by way of general introduction, and are not intended to limit the scope of the following claims. The various preferred embodiments, together with further advantages, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of one embodiment of a desk including a cantilevered worksurface. 
         FIG. 2A  and  FIG. 2B  are top views of a desk with the worksurface located in orthogonal first and second cantilevered positions respectively. 
         FIG. 3  is a bottom view of the desk shown in  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 4  is a front view of the desk shown in  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 5  is a side view of the desk shown in  FIG. 2A . 
         FIG. 6  is a cross-sectional view of the desk taken along line  6 - 6  of  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a partial side view of a support column assembly coupled to a base. 
         FIG. 8  is a top perspective view of a support column assembly coupled to a base. 
         FIG. 9  is an enlarged partial view of an upper connection between the support column assembly and base. 
         FIG. 10  is an enlarged partial view of a lower connection between the support column assembly and base. 
         FIG. 11  is an enlarged partial view of the upper connection between the support column assembly and base configured with a shroud. 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view of a base and support column assembly having a height adjustable support column in an extended position. 
         FIG. 13  is a top view of the assembly shown in  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14A  is a perspective view of a worksurface understructure. 
         FIG. 14B  is an enlarged, partial top view of the understructure. 
         FIG. 15A  is a front perspective view of a support column assembly with a height adjustable support column in an extended position. 
         FIG. 15B  is a partial side view of the support column assembly shown in  FIG. 15A . 
         FIG. 15C  is a cross-sectional view of the support column assembly taken along line  15 C- 15 C of  FIG. 15A . 
         FIG. 15D  is a partial perspective view of an upper portion of the support column assembly shown in  FIG. 15A . 
         FIG. 16  is a partial perspective view of a support column structure. 
         FIG. 17  is a partial perspective view of a desk. 
         FIG. 18  is a partial top view of a worksurface with a power grommet arranged therein. 
         FIG. 19A  and  FIG. 19B  are perspective views of alternative embodiments of a power grommet. 
         FIG. 20  shows a slightly front-rotated top view of a power grommet mounted in a simulated woodgrain worksurface. 
         FIGS. 21-25  show, respectively top perspective view, top plan view, end elevation views, and side elevation view of a power grommet with a closed lid, illustrated with a generic potential worksurface environment that highlights an ornamental appearance of the power grommet. 
         FIGS. 26-30  show, respectively top perspective view, top plan view, end elevation views, and side elevation view of a power grommet with a partially-open lid, illustrated with a generic potential worksurface environment that highlights an ornamental appearance of the power grommet. 
         FIGS. 31-35  show, respectively top perspective view, top plan view, end elevation views, and side elevation view of a power grommet with an open lid, illustrated with a generic potential worksurface environment that highlights an ornamental appearance of the power grommet. 
         FIG. 36A ,  FIG. 36B ,  FIG. 36C  and  FIG. 36D  show respectively a perspective view of a base with a skin being coupled thereto, the skin being secured with fasteners, the skin being secured with a lower bracket and the skin being secured with an intermediate bracket. 
         FIG. 37  is a cross-sectional view of the base taken along line  37 - 37  in  FIG. 36 . 
         FIG. 38  is a bottom view of the worksurface and understructure. 
         FIG. 39  is a top, perspective view of a worksurface with a monitor support secured thereto. 
         FIG. 40  is a cross sectional view of the monitor support and worksurface taken along line  40 - 40  in  FIG. 39 . 
         FIG. 41  is an exploded view of the grommet housing and lid shown in  FIG. 19B . 
         FIG. 42  is a cross-sectional view of the grommet housing and lid shown in  FIG. 41 . 
         FIG. 43  is a perspective view of a pivot pin with a frictional stop surface. 
         FIG. 44  is an alternative embodiment of the pivot pin with an integrated spring. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     It should be understood that the term “plurality,” as used herein, means two or more. The terms “longitudinal” as used herein means of or relating to length or the lengthwise direction  2 ,  2 ′, 2 ″, for example between the opposite ends or side edges of a desk or base component, or between upper and lower ends of a support column. As such, the longitudinal direction  2 ′ associated with a worksurface may be orthogonal to the longitudinal direction associated with a base  10  when those components are arranged in an orthogonal relationship as shown for example in  FIG. 2A . The terms “lateral” and “transverse” as used herein, means situated on, directed toward or running from side to side (front and back of a worksurface), and refers to a lateral direction  4 ,  4 ′, 4 ″ transverse to the longitudinal direction. The term “coupled” means connected to or engaged with whether directly or indirectly, for example with an intervening member, and does not require the engagement to be fixed or permanent, although it may be fixed or permanent (or integral), and includes both mechanical and electrical connection. The terms “first,” “second,” and so on, as used herein are not meant to be assigned to a particular component so designated, but rather are simply referring to such components in the numerical order as addressed, meaning that a component designated as “first” may later be a “second” such component, depending on the order in which it is referred. For example, a “first” side may be later referred to as a “second” side depending on the order in which they are referred. It should also be understood that designation of “first” and “second” does not necessarily mean that the two features, components or values so designated are different, meaning for example a first side may be the same as a second side, with each simply being applicable to separate but identical components. 
     Cantilevered Desk: 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-6 , a cantilevered desk  6  includes a base  10 , a height adjustable support column assembly  12  and a worksurface  8 . It should be understood that  FIGS. 1-6  provide an illustration of one embodiment of an ornamental design appearance, and that various embodiments with different and other ornamental appearances may serve the same functions as the disclosed embodiment. The worksurface has opposite side edges  14 , a front edge  16 , a rear edge  18 , a top surface  20  and a bottom surface  22 . The worksurface is cantilevered outwardly from the support column assembly, which is connected to the base. The base provides a mass that counterbalances the worksurface, and/or any loads applied to a distal end portion  24  thereof. The term “cantilevered” as used herein refers to the worksurface  8  projecting from the support column assembly  12 , with the worksurface being supported only at one end by the support column assembly, with an unsupported length L 1  of the worksurface  8  being between and including at least 50% and 90%, and more preferably between and including 50% and 80%, of the overall length L 2  of the worksurface defined between the opposite side edges  14 . The unsupported length L 1  is defined between the side edge  14  at the distal end portion  24  and a vertical plane  26  defined at the outermost (closest to the side edge at the distal end portion) floor engaging portion of the support column assembly  12  underlying the worksurface, or the outermost extent of any other structure supporting the worksurface and engaging the floor  28 . In various embodiments, L 1 /L 2  is between and including 50% and 60%, between and including 60% and 70%, between and including 70% and 80%, or between and including 80% and 90%, and is 74% in one preferred embodiment. 
     As shown in in  FIGS. 2A and 2B , the worksurface  8 , or longitudinal length  2 ′ thereof between the side edges  14  (otherwise referred to as ends), may extend orthogonal to the longitudinal length or direction  2  of the base  10  as shown in  FIG. 2A , or parallel to the longitudinal length  2  as shown in  FIG. 2B . The worksurface may be made of wood, particle board, glass, solid surface materials, or combinations thereof. In one embodiment, the length L 2  of the worksurface is between about 46 to 72 inches, while the width/depth W of the worksurface is between about 29 and 36 inches and the thickness of the worksurface is between about 0.5 to 0.75 inches. 
     The worksurface is coupled to an understructure  30 , shown in  FIGS. 14A  and B and  38 . In one embodiment, shown in  FIGS. 14A  and B, the understructure includes a frame having longitudinal and lateral frame members  32 ,  34 , made for example of steel tubing, including various rectangular/square tubing dimensions of 1 inch by 2.5 inches, 1 inch by 1 inch and/or 1 inch by 1.5 inches. The understructure supports, rigidifies and minimizes the amount of deflection of the cantilevered worksurface when loaded on the unsupported distal end portion  24 . The worksurface is coupled to mounting plates  36  with screws  38  or other fasteners, adhesives and/or combinations thereof. The mounting plates  36  are coupled to the frame members  32 ,  34 , for example by welding. 
     An attachment plate  40  is coupled to the understructure  30 , for example by welding, fasteners, or combinations thereof. As shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 38 , a pair of attachment plates are offset on opposite sides of a longitudinal centerline of the understructure  30 , or may be combined as a single elongated plate having portions disposed on both sides of the longitudinal centerline. The plate(s)  40  may be defined by the upper web of a bracket having side flanges. Referring to  FIGS. 14A  and B, the plate has at least four openings  42 ,  44 , through which bolts  46 ,  47 , or other fasteners are secured to an underlying support column. In the embodiment of  FIG. 38 , the single elongated plate has two sets of four openings, one set on each side of the longitudinal centerline. The attachment plate  40  is preferably made of metal, for example steel. Initially, two bolts  46  are secured to the support column  126  as described herein, but with a shank of the bolt being exposed. Two of the four openings  44  are slotted, allowing the plate and understructure to slide into engagement with the exposed shank of the bolts  47 , with the understructure in either the orthogonal or parallel orientation (see  FIGS. 2A  and B respectively). As shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 38 , one side of the elongated plate  40  is selected for attachment to the support column. Two bolts  47  are inserted through openings in the plate  40  and engaged with the support column. A level (e.g., bubble level) is positioned on the understructure in the longitudinal direction  2 ′, and a leveling component, e.g., set screws  351  extending through openings in the plate  40  as shown in  FIGS. 14B and 38 , are adjusted until there is a slight bias upwards at the distal end  24 . The level is then rotated to the lateral direction  4 ′, with the one or more leveling components (e.g., set screws  351 ) being adjusted to level the understructure. The leveling component  351  is disposed between the attachment plate  40  and support column assembly  12  and may be adjusted to vary the angle of the attachment plate  40  and understructure  30  relative to the adjacent support column assembly  12  and base  10  to ensure that worksurface  8  is level relative to the base  10  when loaded, for example at the distal end portion  24 . In one embodiment, the leveling component is configured as at least one set screw, including in one embodiment a pair of set screws  351 , which interface between the attachment plate  40  and the support column assembly  12 . Once the desired angle of the understructure and worksurface is achieved, the two bolts  47  may be tightened, and the remaining two bolts  46  installed to secure the understructure to the support column. The worksurface may thereafter be installed on the understructure by securing fasteners  38  through the mounting plates  36 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 3-6 , a cover  52  may be secured to the understructure, the bottom of the worksurface and/or to plates disposed on top of the understructure. The cover may be made of polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The cover has a tapered end wall  54  under the distal portion  24 , a tapered front wall  56 , an opposite end wall  58 , a rear wall  60  and a bottom wall  62 . The cover  52  covers the understructure  30  to provide a pleasing aesthetic appearance. An interior surface  64  of the cover is spaced apart from the bottom  22  of the worksurface, and defines a cavity  66  therebetween in which cables, wires and other components may be stored and/or routed, as shown for example in  FIGS. 6 and 18 . 
     As shown in  FIGS. 1, 2A and 3 , a screen  68  may be disposed along and spaced apart from the rear edge  18  of the worksurface. The screen may be secured to the understructure  30  and/or worksurface  8  with a mounting bracket  70 . A lower modesty portion  72  of the screen extends downwardly from the worksurface, while an upper privacy portion  74  of the screen extends upwardly from the worksurface. In one embodiment, the screen is vertically adjustable relative to the worksurface such that relative proportions of the modesty and privacy portions  72 ,  74  may be adjusted. 
     Base: 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-5, 7-12, 17, 36 and 37 , the base  10  includes lower and upper frames  76 ,  78  extending in the longitudinal direction. The lower frame  76  has opposite sides  73 , opposite ends  75 , a top  77  and a bottom  79 . The lower frame  76  includes upper and lower frame members  80 ,  82 , configured in one embodiment as rails, on each of the sides. The upper and lower frame members are joined with vertically extending frame members  85 , which may be configured as web components. The lower frame  76  defines an interior cavity  87  in which counterweights  89  may be positioned to offset any loads transmitted to the cantilevered worksurface. The base may alternatively be fixedly secured to the floor, for example with fasteners, a tether, adhesive and/or combinations thereof. The lower frame  82  is supported on the floor by floor engaging members  91 , which may be configured as height adjustable glides, casters or wheels. 
     The upper and lower frame members  80 ,  82  each have a plurality of longitudinally spaced openings  84 ,  84 ′ disposed in upper and lower surfaces  94 ,  96  thereof respectively. A horizontal web member  86  extends across the upper frame member between side portions thereof, and may be integrally formed therewith, with the side portions having a C-shape. The web  86  has an upper surface disposed below the uppermost surface of the side portions of the upper frame member. In one embodiment, the upper surfaces of the web  86  and side portions of the upper frame member  80  form a cavity  88 . 
     Likewise, a lower horizontal web  90  extends between side portions of the lower frame member  82 , and may be integrally formed therewith as shown in  FIGS. 10 and 37 . It should be understood that the lower and upper frame members may be integrally formed, with the terms lower and upper referring to the spatial relationship between portions of the structure, and that the term “member” does not require the components to be separately formed, although they may be thus configured, but rather may refer to a portion of larger component. In one embodiment, the frame is made of metal, for example steel sheet metal components. 
     A top  92  is secured to the top  77  of the lower frame  76  and has a bottom surface  214  spaced above the upper surface of the upper frame members to thereby form a gap G 1  as shown in  FIG. 7 . The sides are substantially parallel to the sides of the upper frame members. An upper frame  78  includes lower and upper horizontal rectangular frame members  98  joined at opposite ends thereof to four vertical frame members  100  defining an open structure. One or more shelf supports  102  are coupled to the vertical frame members at intermediate locations between the upper and lower horizontal frame members. One or more shelves  104  may be secured to the shelf supports to provide storage space. Side walls  106  may also be secured to the frame members to define various storage cavities, and may have different heights, including walls that extend a full or half length. The lower horizontal frame member  98  of the upper frame  78  is positioned outboard of the top  92  and is abutted against the side edge thereof. 
     Side skins  108  each have top and bottom edges  110 ,  112 , opposite ends  114  and inner and outer sides  116 ,  118 . The inner side  116  of each skin is secured to one of the outwardly facing sides of the frame, and in particular to the sides of the upper and lower frame members on that side. Referring to  FIGS. 36A, 36B, 36C and 36D , the skins have a plurality of upper brackets  117  spaced apart along the top of the inner side of the skin. Each bracket has a pair of laterally extending flanges  119  that overlie the upper frame and are secured to the upper surface  94  thereof with fasteners  121 . The skins  108  also include one or more intermediate brackets, including a pair of intermediate brackets  123  secured to the inner side  116  adjacent the opposite ends  114 . The intermediate brackets  123  include one or more laterally extending hooks  125  (shown as a pair) that are inserted into slots  127  in the lower frame, and in particular slots  127  formed in the end members  75  and/or frame members  85 . The skins also include a plurality of lower brackets  129  spaced apart along the bottom of the inner side of the skin. Each bracket  129  has a pair of laterally extending hooks  131  (shown as a pair) that are inserted into slots  133  formed in the lower frame  82 . The brackets  117 ,  123 ,  129  may be secured to the skins with fasteners, adhesive, welding and/or combinations thereof, depending on the material of the skins. The skins may be made of a rigid or flexible material, including for example, laminate (including whiteboard), veneer, Corian, glass, fiberboard, wood, whiteboard, or combinations thereof, and may include an outer fabric layer. The top edge  110  of the skin is spaced below the bottom surface of the lower horizontal frame member  98  of the upper frame to form a gap G 2  as shown in  FIG. 7 . The skins may be continuous and have a length running substantially the length of the base. Alternatively, the skin may run a portion of the length, with a door or drawer  120  coupled to the frame along the remaining length thereof. End skins  122  may also be secured to the ends of the base, and in particular the frame. 
     Height Adjustable Support Column Assembly: 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7-10 and 15A-16 , the height adjustable support column assembly  12  includes a brace  124 , a height adjustable support column  126 , a linear actuator  128 , lower and upper mounting members  130 ,  132  and a shroud  134 . In one embodiment, the brace has an L-shape, including a vertical member/portion  136  spaced apart from the outer surface  118  of the skin  108  and a horizontal member/portion  138  extending outwardly from a bottom of the vertical member. The brace member is made of steel in one embodiment. The horizontal and vertical members/portions may be integrally formed, or configured as separate components that are thereafter connected with fasteners, welding and the like. The vertical member has three sides in one embodiment, including a pair of side walls  140  and a vertical end wall  142 , while the horizontal member  138  has a pair of side walls  144  integral with, or overlapping, the side walls  140  of the vertical member. The horizontal member is secured to a floor or support platform  148 , with four floor interface members  150  threadably engaging the support platform and resting on the floor. The floor interface members, shown as glides, may be rotated so as to independently adjust the vertical height of the platform at each location, thereby allowing the brace  124  and height adjustable support column assembly  12  to be leveled. An L-shaped bracket  153  may be secured to the vertical and horizontal portions, closing a portion of the open fourth side of each of those portions as shown in  FIG. 8   
     Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 15A-16 , the support column  126  includes a vertically upright inner member  152  coupled to the horizontal member  138  of the brace, and/or to the platform, and extending upwardly therefrom at a spaced apart location from the vertical member  136  of the brace, forming a gap G 3  therebetween. In one embodiment, the inner member  152  is configured as a square tube, for example steel or another suitable metal, which may be extruded. The inner member has three sets of four rollers arranged on three sides of the tube, with the each set having an upper and lower pair of rollers  154 ,  156 . In one embodiment, the inner member is fixed to the brace and is not movable in a vertical direction. 
     A vertically upright outer member  158  defines an outer tube  160  having three T-shaped ribs  162  extending inwardly into a first cavity defined by the outer tube, with the ribs running along a length thereof. The T-shaped ribs define tracks that are disposed between the rollers  154 ,  156  of each of the upper and lower pairs on the three sides of the inner member tube, which provide for a smooth telescoping movement between the moveable outer member and the fixed inner member. In addition, the outer member has four C-shaped boss structures  164  in the four corners of the tube. The boss structures may be threadably engaged by the fasteners  46 ,  47  extending from the understructure attachment plate  40 , as discussed previously. The outer tube  160  surrounds the inner tube  152 . The outer tube  160 , with its various ribs  162  and boss structures  164  may be formed as an extrusion, for example of metal such as steel or aluminum. The outer member  158  and tube  160  move telescopically and vertically up and down relative to the inner tube  152  while being guided by the rollers  154 ,  156 . The outer member  158  includes side walls  168  that extend past the fourth wall of the outer tube  160  thereof and defines a second cavity. The ends  170  of the side walls  168  are curved inwardly, and include grooves  171  that may interface with a cover  180  extending between the ends  170 . A support plate  174  is secured across the top of the cavity  172  between the walls  168  and the fourth wall of the tube  160 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 15B , the linear actuator  128  has a bottom motor  176  mounted to the support platform  148  and/or horizontal member  138  of the brace and a top  178  coupled to the support plate  174  and outer member  158 . Alternatively, sides of linear actuator motor  176  are coupled to the side walls  144  of the horizontal member  138 . The actuator may be extended and contracted to telescopically move the outer member  158  relative to the inner member  152  to define different overall lengths of the support column  126 , and corresponding or associated heights of the worksurface. The linear actuator may be pneumatic, electric and/or hydraulic. One suitable actuator is the DL 1 A electric actuator available from LINAK. 
     Referring to  FIG. 15D , a bracket  182  is coupled to the top of the vertical portion of the shroud  134  and extends outwardly in an overlying relationship with the platform. A cap  184  is secured to the bracket. The cap has an opening through which the outer member  158  moves vertically, with the curved edges  170  and cover  180  giving the appearance that the outer member is a curved tubular member, since the space between the curved edges faces the base and is not readily visible to a user. Clips  186  secure the cap to the bracket  182 . The shroud  134  encircles the brace  124  and support column  126  and is secured to the platform  148  and bracket  182  with clips and/or brackets. Alternatively, the shroud has three sides, and a pair of spaced apart tabs  188  on a fourth side as shown in  FIGS. 11 and 12 . The tabs are coupled to the end wall of the vertical brace member with fasteners. 
     The lower mounting member  130  is coupled to the platform and horizontal brace member with a pair of fasteners  192 , welding or combinations thereof. The lower mounting member includes a stepped flange  194  having a first portion  196  extending under, or underlying, the bottom edge  112  of the skin and a second portion  198  extending laterally and spaced vertically upwardly from the first portion, with the second portion underlying the lower surface  96  of the lower frame member  82 . The second portion includes a pair of fastener openings that are spaced to align with a pair of fastener openings formed in the lower frame member, with fasteners  200  releasably securing the lower mounting member  130  to the lower frame member  82 . The lower mounting member may be made of metal, such as steel. 
     The upper mounting member  132  has a vertical flange  202  disposed interiorly of and coupled to the end wall  142  of the vertical member of the brace with a pair of fasteners  210 , welding or combinations thereof. A horizontal stepped flange  204  extends from the vertical flange  202  away from the brace toward the base  10 . The stepped flange includes a first portion  206 , which extends through the gap G 2 , overlies the top edge  110  of the skin, and underlies the bottom surface of the frame member  98  forming part of the upper frame  78 . A second portion  208  extends laterally from the first portion into the gap G 1 , with the bottom surface  214  of the top  92  disposed above and overlying the second portion  208 , which overlies the upper surface  94  of the upper frame member  80 . The second portion  208  is spaced vertically downwardly from the first portion  206 , being connected with a vertical transition portion. The second portion  208  includes a pair of fastener openings  216  that are spaced to align with a pair of fastener openings formed in the upper frame member  80 , with the second portion  208  being coupled to the upper frame member  80  with fasteners  212 . The top edge  110  of the skin is vertically spaced above the upper surface of the upper frame member. The upper mounting member may be made of metal, such as steel. 
     The upper and lower mounting members  132 ,  130  may be releasably coupled to the upper and lower frame members  80 ,  82  at any combination of openings formed therein, thereby providing for repositioning of the support column assembly  12  and worksurface  8  at various locations along the length of the base  10 , without having to remove or adjust the positioning or length of the skin  108 . In a disengaged configuration, wherein the fasteners  200 ,  212  are removed, the height adjustable support column assembly  12  is moveable relative to the base  10  and skin  108  in the longitudinal direction  2 . The fasteners  200 ,  212  may then be installed to couple the height adjustable support column to the frame in an engaged configuration. In other embodiments, the mounting members may be releasably coupled to the frame members with clamps, spring loaded pins, or other attachment components at any location along the length of the frame members, meaning the adjustment is infinite. In one embodiment, the upper and lower frame members are simply provided with elongated slots, rather than spaced apart discrete fastener openings, such that the height adjustable support column may be infinitely adjusted and moved to any position along the length of the base and thereafter secured with fasteners engaging the elongated slots. 
     The assembly of the desk ensures that the height adjustable support column assembly may not become inadvertently dislodged from the base. In particular, the top  92  is secured to the base  10  after the upper mounting member  132  is secured to the upper frame member  80 . The mounting member cannot be inserted through the gaps G 1  and G 2 , or screwed to the upper frame member, if the top is installed. As such, once the top is installed, it prevents the upper mounting member from being dislodged, or removed through the gaps G 1  and G 2 . At the same time, due to the hidden connection, and ability to install the support column assembly with disturbing or altering the skin, the base may also be used in a stand-alone configuration without any worksurface coupled thereto. 
     Power Grommet: 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1, 18-35 and 41-44 , the worksurface has an elongated opening  220  formed therein. In one embodiment, the opening has an obround shape, with parallel sides  222  and curved, semi-circular ends  224 . An obround power grommet  230  is disposed in the obround opening. It should be understood that other shapes, including various polygonal, circular, elliptical shapes, etc. of the opening and/or of the power grommet, may also be suitable to provide the functional aspects of a power grommet, while the shape illustrated herein is selected to provide a particular ornamental/aesthetic appearance of an obround power grommet that may have different lengths in different embodiments. The power grommet has a housing  232  including a side wall  234  and an upper lip  236  extending radially outwardly from an upper end of the side wall. The side wall has parallel side portions and curved end portions that match, and are inserted through, the elongated opening  220  in the worksurface. The side wall has a height that is dimensioned to extend through at least the thickness of the worksurface. The housing defines an elongated cavity  238 , which is open along a top  240  of the housing. The upper lip  236  engages the top or upper surface  20  of the worksurface. In one embodiment, the housing is made of die-cast aluminum. 
     A first outlet block  242  is inserted into the cavity  238  of the housing along one end thereof. The outlet block has a base. A mounting bracket  244  is coupled to the housing and includes a flange  246  extending outwardly from the outer surface of the housing. The mounting flange may be secured to the bottom surface  22  of the worksurface, for example with one or more fasteners. In an embodiment shown in  FIG. 19B , a pair of U-shaped mounting brackets  344  surround opposite ends of the housing and have a pair of arms  356  with tabs  346  that engage slots  350  formed in the housing. Each mounting bracket also includes an insert member  348  inserted into a slot  352  formed in the end of the housing. The bracket  344  includes a mounting flange  358  with a hole  360  that receives a fastener  362  that engages a bottom of the worksurface. 
     The outlet block is secured to the housing. The block includes an insert member  243 , or tab, which engages a slot  245  formed in the end of the housing. The slot allows for the block to slide into the housing, with one or more screws  247  then secured through the side. 
     A second outlet block  250  is inserted into the cavity of the housing along an opposite end thereof. The outlet block has a base. A mounting bracket  252  includes a flange  254  extending outwardly from the outer surface of the housing. The mounting flange may be secured to the bottom surface  22  of the worksurface, for example with one or more fasteners. The outlet block is secured to the housing with the insert member  243  engaging a slot  245  and one or more fasteners  247  extending through the side of the housing. The first and second outlet blocks have end walls  258 ,  260  that are spaced apart in the longitudinal direction  2 ′ to define a gap G 4  therebetween, thereby providing a pass-through opening  262  between the outlet blocks from a top of the worksurface to a bottom thereof, and between a top and bottom of the housing, and through the cavity  238  defined by the housing. In this way, power cords  264 , cables and other components may be passed through the through opening and stored in the cavity  66  as shown in  FIG. 18 , or routed to other locations beneath the worksurface. Although it serves those functions, the size of the gap G 4 —both absolute and relative to the first and second outlet blocks  242 ,  250  and its shape may be selected for visual appeal of the power grommet, such that the rectangular gap shown could be embodied as circular, oval, obround, hexagonal, etc. in other embodiments that would provide the same functionality, but with a different visual appearance. 
     In one embodiment, the first and second outlet blocks  242 ,  250  have different numbers of outlets  270 ,  272 , with the first power block having a single outlet, and the second outlet block having first and second outlets. The outlets may be a standard outlet  270 , as shown in the first and second outlet blocks, or a USB or USB-C port  272 , as shown in the second outlet block. It should be understood that the outlet blocks may have the same number of outlets, which may the same or different types. 
     In one embodiment, a lid  280  is pivotally coupled to the housing  232  about one or more pivot pins  284  defining a horizontal axis  282 , or an axis extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the housing.  FIGS. 20-25  show perspective, plan, and elevation views with the lid  280  in a closed position,  FIGS. 26-30  show perspective, plan, and elevation views with the lid  280  in a partially-open position, and  FIGS. 31-35  show perspective, plan, and elevation views with the lid  280  in an open position where the lid is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal face of the power grommet and a generic surrounding worksurface environment shown in phantom lines. Those figures provide clear illustration of an ornamental design appearance presented by this obround embodiment, although it should be appreciated that other geometric or non-geometric shapes of a power grommet would provide the same functionality contemplated by the power grommet. Dashed lines are used therein to illustrate power outlets, shown here as standard United States grounded 120V outlets and a pair of USB-C ports, which highlights that other power outlets, data ports, and/or other plug-in structures may be provided in the blocks  242 ,  250 , including in different orientations than illustrated herein. Also, it will be appreciated—particularly with reference to  FIGS. 18 and 31-35  that lidless embodiments are disclosed to those of skill in the art with regard to both functional and ornamental aspects. In addition, it should be understood that the ornamental design appearance extends to the housing and lid alone, without the blocks. Likewise, the ornamental design appearance of the lid extends to the lid without depression  290 , which may be omitted altogether, or be configured in other shapes and sizes. 
     As shown in those drawings, the lid  280  is pivotable between an open position, wherein the first and second outlet blocks, and outlets  270 ,  272  are exposed along a top of the housing, and a closed position, wherein one of the first or second outlet blocks is exposed along a top of the housing, and the other of the first and second outlet blocks is covered by the lid. In this way, at least one power block is always exposed and readily accessible without requiring actuation of the lid, with the exposed outlet providing indicia to the user that power is available. The lid may greater than 90°, for example 95°, between the closed and open positions, such that the lid is over center in the open position. The lid has an elongated portion  286  extending from the axis in a first direction, with the elongated portion overlying the outlets. The lid also includes an engageable actuator portion  288  extending from the axis in a second direction opposite the first direction. The actuator portion is shorter than the elongated portion in one embodiment. In one embodiment, the lid covers more than ½ of a top of the cavity when in the closed position. 
     The pin acts as a fulcrum, with a force being applied to the actuator portion causing the lid to pivot about the axis  282 . The actuator portion may be provided with indicia notifying the user of where to engage the lid, such as thumb depression  290 . When in the over center open position, the lid  286  remains open due to gravity applied by the elongated portion, while in the closed position, the lid remains closed due to gravity. The lid may be made of any suitable material, including for example and without limitation metal or plastic. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 41-44 , in one embodiment, a pair of hinge/pivot pins or pivot members  284 ,  284 ′ couple the lid  280  to the housing  232 . The pivot members  284 ,  284 ′ have a body  502  with a pair of axles  506 ,  506 ′,  504  extending from opposite ends of the body. The pivot members  502  may be made of plastic. In one embodiment, the axles  506 ,  506 ′,  504  are parallel but spaced apart along longitudinal axes  285  and  500 . The axles  506  are rotatable relative to the housing  232  in openings  235  formed in the opposite side walls  234 . 
     The lid  280  has a pair of axially aligned cavities formed in a hub portion  532  extending downwardly from the lid, with the cavities being separated by a wall  530  defining a pair of stop surfaces  526 . The bodies  502  are non-rotatably fixed to the lid in the cavities. For example, in one embodiment, each body  502  includes a key portion  508  that mates with a corresponding cavity  514  in the lid. In one embodiment, the body  502  has a substantially rectangular cross-section as shown in  FIG. 43 , with opposing curved sides, that mates with a similar cross-section of the cavity  514 . Alternatively, the body has a key portion  516 , as shown for example in  FIG. 44 , extending radially therefrom that mates with a key passageway  522  formed in the cavity  514 . For example, the axle  506  may have a profile portion defining the key portion. As shown in  FIG. 42 , the cavity has a sufficient dead space  540  with a length (C 1 ) which is the same as or greater than the length of the axle  506 /hole  235  interface (T 1 ), such that the pivot members  284  may be depressed inwardly (against the force of a spring  510 ) until the axle  506  clears the side wall  234  and the lid may be removed or disengaged from the housing. 
     The spring  510  is disposed around the axle  504  and has one end that exerts a compressive force against a biasing surface  524  of the body  502  of the pivot pin  284 , with an opposite friction surface  512  engaging an inner surface of the housing side wall  234 . An opposite end of the spring  510  engages a stop surface  526  forming an end of each cavity. The spring  510  is shown as a compression spring, but may take other forms, including a leaf spring. The friction (FF) created between the friction surface  512  and housing side wall  234  is sufficient to hold the lid  280  in any open position. In this embodiment, the lid  280  is prevented from closing unexpectedly, but rather requires an assist by the user by pushing on the elongated portion  286  or pulling on the actuator portion  288  to close the lid, or by pushing on the actuator portion  288  to open the lid. By having a pair of pivot members  284  and springs  510  (with equal length and spring rates), the lid  280  is centered between the opposing side walls  234  of the housing, since the pivot members  284  and springs  510  exert equal and opposite forces against the opposite housing side walls  234 . 
     As shown in the embodiment of  FIG. 44 , the axle  506 ′ and the spring  510 ′ may be integrally formed, with the spring  510 ′ and pivot pin being a single, homogenous and integrally formed component. 
     While the embodiment of the lid  280 , housing  232  and pivot member  284  shown in  FIGS. 41-44  is applied to grommet housing, it should be understood that the frictional engagement between the pivot member and housing may be applied to any type of enclosure where a housing has a lid pivoting or rotating relative thereto. In operation, the method of accessing the enclosure includes pivoting the lid  280  relative to the housing  232  about the pivot member  284  from a closed position to an angled open position, and exerting an axial (normal) force FN to the pivot member  284  (perpendicular to the side wall  234 ) and thereby creating a friction force FF between the friction surface  512  of the pivot member and the side wall  234  of the housing sufficient to hold the lid  280  in the angled open position. The static friction force FF is the product of the normal force FN times the coefficient of friction. In addition, when a pair of pivot members  284  are provided, the method further includes applying equal and opposite forces to the lid  280  and housing  232  on each side of thereof such that the lid  280  is centered in the opening defining by the housing along the top  240  thereof. 
     In order for the lid  280  to maintain position, the moment due to friction (FF) must overcome the moment due to gravity. The bearing friction moment is: 
     
       
         
           
             M 
             = 
             
               
                 
                   
                     μ 
                     k 
                   
                   ⁢ 
                   P 
                 
                 
                   π 
                   ⁡ 
                   ( 
                   
                     
                       R 
                       2 
                       2 
                     
                     - 
                     
                       R 
                       1 
                       2 
                     
                   
                   ) 
                 
               
               ⁢ 
               
                 
                   ∫ 
                   0 
                   
                     2 
                     ⁢ 
                     π 
                   
                 
                 
                   
                     ∫ 
                     
                       R 
                       1 
                     
                     
                       R 
                       2 
                     
                   
                   
                     
                       r 
                       2 
                     
                     ⁢ 
                     dr 
                     ⁢ 
                        
                     d 
                     ⁢ 
                     θ 
                   
                 
               
             
           
         
       
     
     That formula may be simplified to: 
       ( w*r   1 )=⅔* kx*μ*r   2  
 
     Where: 
     w is the weight of the lid  280 , 
     r 1  is the distance from the Center of Gravity (COG) of the lid  280  to the pivot axis  285 , 
     k is the spring constant of the spring  510 , 
     x is the distance the spring  510  is compressed, 
     μ is the friction coefficient between the pivot member  284  and housing side wall  234 , and 
     r 2  is the radius of the friction surface  512 . 
     As such, the materials and dimensions of the various components, including the types of material of the lid  280  (affecting the weight thereof), spring  280  (affecting spring rate), housing  232  and pivot member  284  (both affecting coefficient of friction), and the dimensions of the spring, lid and friction surface, may be varied to ensure that a sufficient friction force FF is applied to maintain the lid  280  in any angled position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 39 and 40 , a monitor support  400  includes a base portion  402  extending into the through opening  262 . In one embodiment, the base includes a vertical flange  406 , a horizontal flange  404  and a clamping component  408  secured to the vertical flange  406  under the work surface. The clamping component  408  is vertically adjustable relative to the horizontal flange  404  such that the distance therebetween may be varied, with the clamping feature being tightened to engage the bottom of the worksurface and the horizontal flange engaging the lip  236  and or top surface of the work surface so as to clamp and secure the monitor support  400  to the worksurface. The monitor support includes an upright  410  extending upwardly from the base  402 . A monitor  412 , for example an electronic visual display, may be coupled to the upright  410 . 
     Although the present invention has been described with reference to preferred embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. As such, it is intended that the foregoing detailed description be regarded as illustrative rather than limiting and that it is the appended claims, including all equivalents thereof, which are intended to define the scope of the invention.