MXPA02008022A - Adjustable power and telecommunications outlet apparatus and method for furniture and wall structures. - Google Patents

Abstract

An apparatus for positioning power or telecommunications outlets in furniture and wall systems. The apparatus cooperates with a wall, partition or furniture system to repositionably support a cable suitable for transmitting telecommunications data and/or electrical power. The apparatus includes an outlet box and a conduit or channel for receiving the cable. Means for removably attaching the apparatus to the system are provided so that the apparatus can be removably attached to the system in a plurality of positions. The system may include a base and a support frame forming a plurality of mounting positions. A removable cover may fit over at least a portion of an open side of the conduit or channel for restricting access to the interior of the channel. A method for repositionably supporting a cable in a modular construction system forming a plurality of mounting locations is also disclosed.

Description

ENERGY OUTPUT APPLIANCES AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS ADJUSTABLE AND METHOD FOR STRUCTURES OF FURNITURE AND WALLS Field of the Invention The present invention relates to power outlets and telecommunications, and more particularly to energy outlets and telecommunications to be used in walls, partitions and furniture of modular construction.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Numerous items of walls, partitions and furniture with power outlets and telecommunications are provided. In the case of wall systems, the demand for energy and telecommunications outlets that can be installed quickly and easily is important (regardless of whether the walls are interior or exterior or load bearing or do not bear load). In the case of separations and furniture, there is a similar demand for reducing manufacturing and assembly time and reducing the cost of separations and furniture. However, few existing output designs offer the versatility desired by consumers. For example, a large number of household and office furniture, school and laboratory equipment, and separation systems and walls are more modular and portable in design. With the increase in modularity, the routing and installation of power and telecommunications lines within such furniture, equipment, and separation systems and walls, represents a growing burden for assemblers, installers and users. Typically, power and telecommunications outlets for rack and display assemblies, home and office furniture, school and laboratory equipment, and separation systems and walls (hereinafter collectively referred to as "furniture and wall systems") are not easily placeable in different places to accommodate different furniture and wall arrangements. Most of the existing energy and telecommunications outlets are rigidly joined in particular places of the furniture and walls, and can not move from their joined positions. In many furniture and wall systems, the power and telecommunications outlets are permanently mounted to the cabinet or wall or to a frame thereof. In other furniture and wall systems, each power or telecommunications outlet is removably attached in one location or can be attached (removably or otherwise) to only a small number of places in the cabinet or wall. Depending on the installation and arrangement of furniture and / or walls, this lack of versatility can be a problem for users who wish to plug devices into the outputs. Unless the devices are close to the power and telecommunications outlets, one or more wires, extension cords, cables, telephone wires or other power and communication lines (collectively referred to herein as "power and telecom extension lines) would be necessary. ") to connect the devices to the outputs. In some cases, the distances covered by the power and telecommunications extension lines are very long, causing potential hazards of trips or obstructions and resulting in an unsightly work area or housing. Some furniture and wall systems that have power outlets and telecommunications allow limited adjustability of the outputs. However, this adjustability is, suitably, poorly suited for many wall, furniture, and component and accessory arrangements that are intended to be used with wall and furniture systems. Despite the fact that the outputs can be placed in different positions, the resulting location of the outputs is often still difficult in relation to the components, accessories and devices used with the furniture and walls systems. For example, a modular shelving unit typically includes a plurality of shelves that can be placed in many different arrangements. The modular shelving unit can support devices that need to be plugged into the power and telecommunications outlets. Nevertheless, the high degree of usability allowed by many units of modular shelves, is not equal to the relatively small number of positions of the energy and telecommunications outlets. Therefore, power and telecommunications extension lines are needed or the devices supported by the rack units must be repositioned (thus limiting the range of uses for rack systems). Furniture and wall designs are typically limited by a number of other considerations, including without limitation the total cost of the systems, space restrictions and ease of manufacture and assembly. A furniture or wall system with more versatile energy and telecommunications outlets, preferably would not be significantly more expensive to manufacture and assemble, would not limit the modularity and portability of the system (if such furniture is desired), and would not consume significant space. There is also a need to speed up the total inspection of the power lines. These total inspections are required under some municipal building codes. Many previously known power outlets can not be fully inspected after assembly, so the scheduling of total inspections can be problematic. A modular power outlet, which can be disassembled and reassembled easily and quickly, is desirable, so that a full inspection of the power lines is practical any time the inspector can visit the building site. In light of the problems and limitations described above, there is a need for energy and telecommunications outlets in furniture and wall systems that can be placed in a wide range of positions to increase accessibility and connectivity, which are easily adaptable for different arrangements of furniture or walls without sacrificing the modularity and portability of the system (if such furniture is desired), which do not add significantly to the size or complexity of the system and which are relatively inexpensive to manufacture and assemble.

Summary of the Invention The present invention provides an apparatus and method for placing energy or telecommunications outlets in furniture and wall systems. The apparatus cooperates with a modular construction system, for example, to repositionably support a cable suitable for transmitting telecommunication data or electrical power. The apparatus includes a channel that is sized to receive the cable. An outlet box is mounted on the channel. Means are provided for removably attaching the apparatus or modular construction system. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the apparatus can be removably attached to the modular construction system in a plurality of positions, one of the positions being displaced laterally and / or inverted with respect to another of the positions. In a preferred embodiment, the modular construction system includes a base and a support system that form a plurality of mounting positions and is connected to the base.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the invention is a modular conduit for use with a modular construction system that forms mounting locations to repositionably support a cable suitable for transmitting at least one telecommunications data and electrical power. The modular conduit includes an elongated channel having two ends and a side substantially open to provide access to the interior of the channel, and is dimensioned to receive a cable suitable for transmitting at least one telecommunication data and electrical power. A removable lid is placed on at least one position of the open side to restrict access to the interior of the channel. A connection box is mounted on the channel. The modular conduit can be removably attached to the mounting locations, so that the modular conduit and the modular construction system support the cable in a cooperative and repositionable manner. In yet another preferred embodiment, the invention is a work station that includes a power outlet and / or repositionable data connection port. The work station includes a base and a support frame that form a plurality of mounting positions. The support frame is connected to the base. The workstation also includes a modular conduit that can be repositionably attached to the support frame in the mounting positions. The modular conduit includes a conduit or channel, an outlet and a suitable cable for transmitting at least one telecommunications data and electric power. The invention is also a method for repositionably supporting a cable in a modular construction system that forms a plurality of mounting locations. The method includes providing modular building systems that form a plurality of mounting locations, and removably joining an elongated channel to the system at one of the mounting locations. The channel has two ends and a side substantially open to provide access to the interior of the channel. An outlet box is mounted on the channel. The inside of the outlet box can communicate with the inside of the channel. A cable suitable for transmitting at least one telecommunication data and electrical power is connected inside the channel. A balance box is electrically connected to the cable. The output box is suitable for transmitting at least one of telecommunication and electrical power data. Although the present invention can be applied to any assembly of shelves and display, domestic and office furniture, school and laboratory equipment and separation systems and walls as mentioned above, the following description and the accompanying drawings are with reference to rack assemblies. as an example only. Also, the present invention can be used in any wall system, but can be used with particular advantage in interior wall systems and wall systems that are modular natural. The assembly of shelves described below and illustrated in the Figures is modular, and has shelves that can be adjusted to multiple positions. The present invention can be used with other types of shelf units if desired. Also, the following description and accompanying drawings are with reference to the energy apparatus according to the present invention, and are presented by way of example only. The present invention finds application with respect to any type of energy and telecommunications output. Regardless of the way in which the apparatus can be used to place outputs in the desired places (ie, it can be mounted on the support frame in different ways and / or if the output can be releasably secured in different places to along the channel), the apparatus in some embodiments of the present invention can be mounted in multiple places on the support frame. By way of example, a vertically oriented apparatus can be releasably secured in multiple horizontal positions on the support frame, or a horizontally oriented apparatus, can be releasably secured in multiple vertical positions on the support frame. In some embodiments, the outlet of the apparatus is not adjustable along the channel and the apparatus can be mounted only in one orientation on the support frame. However, even in such embodiments, the ability to mount the apparatus in different positions (e.g., vertical or horizontal) on the support frame provides significant advantages over existing designs and apparatuses. Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the following detailed description, claims and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The present invention is better described with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show the preferred embodiments of the present invention. However, it should be noted that the invention as described in the accompanying drawings is illustrated by way of example only. The different elements and combinations of elements described below and illustrated in the drawings can be arranged and performed differently to obtain as a result modalities which are still within the spirit and scope of the present invention. In the drawings, where like reference numerals indicate similar parts: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a modular partially assembled rack unit and a modular apparatus or duct according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the modular shelving unit of the apparatus used in Figure 1; Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of the apparatus illustrated in Figures 1 and 2; Figure 4 is a perspective view of a partially assembled work station and the modular apparatus or conduit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of an apparatus illustrated in Figure 4; Figure 6 is a rear perspective view of the exploded view of an apparatus illustrated in Figure 4; Figure 7 is a rear perspective view of an apparatus illustrated in Figure 4; and Figure 8 is a perspective view of a partially assembled modular construction system and a modular apparatus or conduit according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION The present invention is described in terms of its application to a system of modular shelves having selectively placed shelves. However, as described above, the present invention is applicable to any assembly of shelves and display, domestic and office furniture, and school and laboratory type, and indoor separation wall systems and provided with energy or telecommunications systems . The application of modular shelves is presented here by way of example only. Figure 1 illustrates a modular shelf embodiment 20 according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The rack unit 20 preferably includes a horizontal base 24, a vertical support frame 28, a plurality of shelves 32 (shown only in Figure 1) and at least one modular apparatus or duct 36 for repositionably supporting a cable. Referring also to Figure 2, the base 24 preferably includes support channels 40 that extend horizontally with respect to the floor surface 44. Screens 48 can be mounted to the ends of the side channels 40 if desired. The support frame 28 is preferably mounted to the side channel 40 of the base 24 and preferably extends generally vertically upwards from the floor surface 24. Although the support frame 24 may take a different number of forms, the Support frame 28 in the preferred embodiment includes a pair of supports 52, an upper 56 and a lower extender 60. The supports 52 preferably include a plurality of mounting openings 64 for selectively mounting the shelves 32 to the support frame 28 (described in more detail later). The upper and lower extenders 56, 60 preferably extend generally parallel to the floor surface 44, but can connect the supports 52 in any other desired orientation. The upper and lower extenders 56, 60 extend between and are mounted to the supports 52. The upper and lower extenders 56, 60 generally include a plurality of upper openings 68 and a plurality of lower openings 72., respectively, for selectively mounting the apparatus 36 to the support frame 28 (described in more detail below). The support frame 28 also preferably includes a plurality of support loops 76 (one shown) extending from the support frame 28 preferably in a direction parallel to the base 24. The support arms 76 are preferably selectively mountable in a plurality. of positions on the support frame 28. The support arms 76 provide support to the selectively placed shelves 32 by being positioned below the shelves 32, with the shelves 32 resting on the support arms 76. The support frame 28 it may further include one or more supports 80 connecting the upper and lower extenders 56, 60. In some preferred embodiments, the secondary supports 80 may be connected to the upper and lower extenders 56, 60 in two or more places in a number of different ways , such as those described below with reference to channels 132 of apparatus 36. In the preferred embodiment illust In this embodiment, the secondary vertical expander 80 has one end selectively mounted to the upper extender 56 and the end selectively mounted to the lower extender 60. The secondary vertical support 80 is preferably mounted to the upper and lower extenders 56, 60 by clamps (not shown) similar to the clamps for mounting the modular apparatus or duct 36 to the upper and lower extenders 36, 60 (discussed in more detail below). Although the secondary vertical support 80 can be connected to the upper and lower extenders 56, 60 at any angle, the secondary vertical support 80 is preferably mounted generally perpendicular to the floor surface 44 and more preferably can be selectively placed along the upper and lower extenders 56, 60 in a plurality of positions, so that the secondary vertical support 80 maintains an alignment generally perpendicular with respect to the floor surface 44. In some embodiments, the secondary vertical support 80 is adapted to support one or more shelves 32 (see Figure 1) via one or more support arms 76. Depending on the spacing of the supports and the dimensions of the shelves 32, each shelf 32 can be supported by a combination of supports 52 and supports 80. The shelves 32 in the modular shelf unit 20 may be in a plurality of different sizes. and can be mounted selectively to the support frame 28 in a plurality of positions. In some embodiments, for example, larger shelves 92 can be located in a range of vertical positions extending from the stops of the supports 52 to the base 24, while the smaller shelves 32 can be located in a range of locations located at length of the secondary supports 80. Other components and elements or various combinations thereof can be mounted in a similar manner in the different places along the supports 52 and the secondary supports 80 (where their secondary supports 80 are used). Such components and elements include, for example, back covers, boxes, hook supports, baskets, walls, partitions and the like. Here later, all those components and elements are collectively referred to as "shelves." The apparatus 36 can be removably attached to the supports 52, 80 in essentially the same manner as the extenders 56, 60. Additionally, the apparatus 36 can be removably attached to the extenders 56, 60, in essentially the same manner In any case, the apparatus 36 is in approximately the same plane as the supports 52, 80 or extenders 56, 60. The shelves, such as the shelf 32, can be mounted on the supporting frame 28 without being obstructed by the apparatus 36. The shelves are placed on the apparatus 36 without interference, because the apparatus 36 is mounted so that it is below the shelves. The apparatus 36 can be repositioned in many places because it does not interfere with the placement of the shelves. The connections between the supports 52 and the extensors 56, 60, between the extenders 56, 60 and the secondary supports 80, and between the shelves or other components and the supports 52 or secondary supports 80, can be made in a number of different ways well known to those skilled in the art. Any or all of those connections can be permanent or releasable as desired. Also, any or all of those connections can be adjustable or non-adjustable. With reference to the connections between the extenders 56, 60 and the supports 52, those connections are preferably in the form of poles or head bolts (not shown) extending from the ends of the extenders 56, 60 for releasable engagement with the extenders. clamps (not shown) on the brackets 52. Other types of connections include, without limitation, bolts or posts on the extenders 56, 60 releasably engageable within the openings in the brackets 52, hooks on the extenders 56, 60, or supports 52 releasably attachable with hooks, bolts, clamps or openings on the supports 52 or extenders 56, 60, respectively, interlocking clamps on the supports 52 and extenders 56, 60 and the like. In other embodiments, the ends of the extenders 56, 60, may be received within openings in the supports 52, and may be secured therein by one or more conventional fasteners (e.g., bolts, posts, clamps, screws and the like) passed through aligned or substantially aligned openings in the extenders 56, 60 and supports 52. Alternatively, the extenders 56, 60, may be connected in other ways to the supports by one or more conventional releasable fasteners, such as clamps, pins or screws. One skilled in the art will appreciate that still other ways of releasably connecting the extenders 56, 60 to the supports 52 are possible, each of which falls within the spirit and scope of the present invention.

In those embodiments in which the extenders 56, 60 are adjustably connected to the brackets 52, the brackets 52 preferably have multiple fastening locations to allow such adjustment. For example, the fasteners on the extenders 56, 60 may be received within, interlocked with, or otherwise connected to, openings to the selected fasteners located along at least part of the length of the supports 52. both, the extenders 56, 60, can be secured to the supports 52 in multiple positions along at least part of the length of the supports 52, and more preferably, they can be secured to the supports 52 in a range of positions along the supports 52. Any number of extenders 56, 60 can be connected between the supports 52 as desired. As described above, the shelves 32, 92 and / or other components and assemblies can be connected to the supports 52 and the secondary supports 80 (if employed). In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the shelves 32, 92 are connected to the supports 52 in the secondary supports 80 by support arms 76. Those support arms 76 preferably have one or more hooks (not shown) that are received within the openings 64, 88 in the supports 52 and the secondary support 80. Although not required, the supports 52 and the secondary support 80 can be provided with multiple openings in different positions along their lengths, allowing the connection of the arms support 76 or other components in different places on supports 52 and secondary support 80. More preferably, supports 52 and secondary support 80 are provided with a series of such openings 64, 88 along their lengths. In this way, the support arms 76 can be connected in multiple places (and more preferably in a range of places) to the supports 52 and the secondary support 80. In alternative embodiments, the shelves 32, 92 have hooks that can be received within the openings 64, 88, thereby eliminating the need for separate support arms 76. In a manner employing hook-and-opening type connections as just described, the hooks have a first portion that is extends backward away from the back of the shelves 32. Each of the hooks also has a second portion that curves downward toward the surface of the floor 44. Once the hooks are inserted into the openings 64 of the supports 52 and the openings 88 of the secondary support 80, the hooks preferably hold the shelves 32 in parallel or substantially parallel positions to the floor surface 4. In another embodiment, an alternative hook configuration can be employed to connect the shelves 32, 92 to the supports 52, 80. In this alternative configuration, the hooks (not shown) have a first portion that extends rearward, away from the back of the hooks. shelves 32. At least one of the hooks has a second portion that curves upward, away from the surface of the floor 44. Once the hooks extending upward are inserted into the openings 64 of the supports 52 and the openings 88 of the secondary supports 80, those hooks and one or more hooks extending downward, hold the shelves 32 in positions parallel to or substantially parallel to the floor surface 44. The hook and opening connections between the support arms 76 or shelves 32, 92 and supports 52, 80, are preferred. However, any other releasable connection can be used instead, including any of the other types of connection described above with reference to the connections between the extenders 56, 60 and the supports 52.

For example, the shelves 32 can be selectively mounted to the support frame 28 by conventional fasteners, such as screws, pins and bolts. Such fasteners can preferably be removed so that the shelves 32 can be selectively placed and remounted at one or more other desired locations. The embodiments described above represent only a few possibilities for mounting the shelves 32 to the support frame 28 (either releasably or permanently, and either adjustably or non-adjustable). The above modalities are not intended to be limiting, but only to provide examples of assembly arrangements. Any other conventional way for attaching shelves 32 to support frame 28 may be used instead, and still fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Continuing with reference to FIGURES 1-3, apparatus 36 of. The present invention preferably includes a housing or outlet box 124, one or more electrical outputs 128 (and more preferably, a plurality of electrical outputs 128), a conduit or channel 132, and one or more electrical lines 136. Power lines 136, can take a number of different forms, such as insulated wire, flexible conduits, as shown in the figures, cable and the like. In some highly preferred embodiments, the apparatus 36 further includes one or more brackets (such as an upper bracket 144 and a lower bracket 140) or other fasteners for connecting the apparatus 36 to the support frame 28. Those and other preferred embodiments may include a electrical fastener connected to electrical lines 136. The housing or outlet box 124 preferably includes a plurality of openings 152 located in the front surface 156 of the outlet housing 124. Preferably, its openings 152 are formed and sized to receive the outlets. 128. The electrical outputs 128 are preferably conventional electrical outputs known to those skilled in the art. In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the output housing 124 has four openings 152. However, any number of openings 152 in the output housing 124 corresponding to any number of desired electrical outputs 128 for the apparatus 36 may be included. Note that the openings 152 could also or instead be located in any other portion in the exit housing 124.

The output housing 124 preferably functions as a housing for holding the connections between the electrical outputs 128 and the electrical lines 136. The output housing 124 can be of any desired shape and size, and can enclose any number of desired electrical outputs 128 ( subject to the requirements of the electrical code). The output housing 124 preferably includes a wire opening 160 located on a rear surface 164 of the output housing 124 through which the electrical lines 136 run to the electrical outputs 128. Alternatively, the wire opening 160 can be located anywhere another surface of the outlet housing 124. As described above, the electrical outputs 128 are preferably mounted within and supported by the output housing 124. The electrical outputs 128 may be of any desired type. Alternatively, the outputs 128 can be telecommunication outputs for connection to a coaxial cable, telephone lines or the like. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, and illustrated, the exit housing 124 includes a plate 168 extending laterally away from the exit housing 124. The plate 168 preferably includes an opening 172 through which a throttle screw passes. 176. The thumbscrew 176 can be tightened to secure the apparatus 36 to a desired position on the support frame 28 as will be described below in greater detail. The outlet housing 124 is connected to the conduit or channel 132 in any conventional manner. In the preferred embodiment, illustrated, for example, the outlet housing 124 is permanently connected to the channel 132 by one or more welds. Other ways to permanently and releasably connect the output housing 124 to the channel 132 include brazing, clamping, fastening by one or more conventional fasteners such as rivets, pins, screws and the like. The conduit or channel 132 can take any desired cross-sectional shape, and in the preferred embodiment, illustrated, has a U-shaped cross section with an external surface 184 and an internal surface 188 defining an internal cavity 192. In some preferred embodiments , the rear surface 164 and the outlet housing 124 is supported on the external surface 184 of the channel 132, while the electrical lines 136 extend through the cavity 192 and along the inner surface 188 of the channel 132. the power lines 136 can be bent 90 ° before passing into the wired opening '160 of the outlet housing 124. Alternatively, the electrical lines 136 can pass to the outlet housing via a wire conduit the angle of 90 ° 196 connected to the output housing 124 and / or to the channel 132 in any conventional manner. In an alternative embodiment, the output housing 124 is connected to the channel 132, so that the electrical lines 136 approach one side of the output housing 124, thereby entering a wired opening 160 on the output housing side. 124. Depending at least in part on the shape of the connection of the output housing 124 the channel 132, the electrical lines 136 can therefore enter directly into the output housing 124 without being bent, or they can be bent at any angle to enter through one side of the outlet housing 124. The other ends of the electrical lines 136 are preferably connected to the electrical connector 140. The electrical connector 140 preferably directly or indirectly connects the apparatus 36 to a power source 200 that supplies power electrical to the output apparatus 36. Any conventional electrical connector can be used to connect the apparatus 36 to the source of external energy 200. If desired, the electrical lines 136 can be retained within the cavity 192 of the channel 132 by one or more flanges, bendable tabs, clamps, bands or any other conventional shape. Preferably, at least one of the upper and lower clamps 144, 148 (described below), help to perform this function by at least partially closing the cavity 192. Referring again to Figures 1-3, the upper and lower clamps 144 148 are preferably connected to the channel 132 in any conventional manner, such as being stamped, bent, or otherwise formed on it, or being welded or brazed onto it, being secured thereto by one or more conventional fasteners, such like rivets, screws, pins and the like. In some preferred embodiments, the clamps 144, 148 at least partially surround the channel 132 and assist in retaining the electrical lines 136 within the cavity 192. In a highly preferred embodiment, the upper and lower clamps 144, 148 include each or more tweezers 244 projecting away from the channel 132 curving downward toward the floor surface 144. The tweezers 204 are used to selectively mount the apparatus 36 to the support frame 28 as will be described in greater detail below. In some embodiments of the present invention, the upper and lower clamps 144, 148 are mounted to the channel 132 by pressing the clamps 144, 148 on it. In such embodiments, the channel 132 may have a number of cavities in expected relation along the entire length of the channel 132. Those cavities may be defined by a plurality of lips along the channel 132, by a series of openings along the length of the channel 132. channel 132, and the like. The clamps 144, 148 may have elastic arms or fingers that can be clamped in the desired positions on the channel by engagement within any of the cavities of the channel 132. To aid in this engagement, the elastic attached spleens may have one or more projections which are received within the cavities on the channel 132. Each clamp 144, 148 may have two or more such elastic arms or fingers. The elastic arms or fingers can extend from the clamps 204 of the clamps 144, 148 to positions flanking the channel 132. For example, the elastic arms or fingers can form a U-shape, a generally circular or arched shape, or any other form that provides a space for the channel 132. In some embodiments of the present invention employing such clamps, the projections on the elastic arms or fingers may extend into the cavities between the lips on the channel 132 when the clamps 144, 148 are mounted to the body. channel 132. The elastic arms or fingers may be spaced apart from each other by a distance that is slightly narrower than the channel 132 so that the elastic arms or fingers expand to receive the channel 132, after which the elastic arms or fingers are they contract to enter the cavities of the canal. As mentioned above, the clamps 204 are preferably employed to selectively mount the apparatus 36 to the support frame 28. Specifically, the clips 204 on the upper and lower clamps 144, 148 can be selectively inserted into the openings 68, 72 of the upper and lower extenders 56, 60, respectively. The tweezers 204 may extend in any suitable direction for abutment with the upper and lower extenders 56, 60 or other structure of the support frame 28. For example, in the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figures 1-3, the tweezers 204 they extend in a downward direction for insertion into the upwardly directed openings 68, 73 of the upper and lower extenders 56, 60. As another example, the clamps 504 in the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figures 4-7. (described below) extend in opposite directions (moving away from each other) to insert into confronting openings 68, 72 of the upper and lower extenders 56, 60. The clamps 204, 504 may be extended in any other suitable manner to extend into the openings 68, 72 otherwise oriented in the supporting frame 28. Similarly, the elements and structures described herein that may be employed as alternatives to the clamps 204, 504 and clamps 144, 148 may also be oriented in any manner suitable for connecting the apparatus 36 to the upper and lower extenders 56, 60 or to other frame elements 28. The selectively insertable pliers 204 allow the apparatus 36 to be mounted on a number (and more preferably in a range) of lateral positions along the extenders 56, 60. Preferably, the apparatus 36 is substantially vertical in each of such positions, although other orientations of the apparatus are possible. In the preferred embodiment, illustrated, the upper and lower clamps 144, 148 are shown on the channel 132. However, the channel 132 can be provided with any number of connecting clamps for any number of extenders to perform the same functions just described . The clamps 144, 148 as shown in the accompanying Figures are preferred for connecting the channel 132 to one or more extenders 56, 60. In those embodiments of the present invention that allow lateral adjustability of the channel 132 and the outlets 128, the Clamps 144, 148 are also preferred to allow that adjustability. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other elements may also be employed in their place to perform either or both functions. For example, one or more hooks may be connected to channels 132 for selective engagement with openings or hooks on extenders 56, 60. As another example, one or more pins, posts, pins, hooks or other elongate elements may extend from the channel 132 towards the openings in the extenders 56, 60. Such elements do not necessarily need to be coupled with the openings (or other fasteners) on the upper surface of the extenders 56, 60 as shown in the Figures. Instead, those elements may extend toward coupling with apparatuses or other elements on the dies of the extenders 56, 60. In yet another embodiment, head posts extending backwardly of the channel 132 may be received within the connected clamps to the extenders 56, 60. Still other ways of connecting the channel 132 to the extenders (preferably in a number of different positions on it) are possible, some of which are described above with reference to the ways in which the racks 32 , 92, the support arms 76 and the extenders 56, 60 can be connected in the supports 52, 80. Each of these connection forms falls within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Also as described above, the ability to join channels 32 to a number of different side locations or support frame 28 provides the user with significantly greater versatility in the positioning of outputs 128. In a number of embodiments of the present invention , the apparatus 36 is not rigidly secured to the support frame 28 after being placed on it. By way of example only, the apparatus 36 of the preferred embodiment, illustrated, retained in place on the support frame 28 by clamps 204 of the brackets 144, 148 received within the openings 68, 72 of the extenders 56, 60. Although not required to practice the present invention in those embodiments, one or more fasteners are preferably tightened after placing the apparatus 36 in its desired positions to secure the apparatus 36 to the support frame 28. In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the fastener is a thumb screw 176. The thumb screw 176 can be pressed against a surface of an extender 56, 60, but more preferably received within an opening in the expander 56, 60. More preferably, a series of such openings 244, 248 are provided in each extender 56, 60, each of which are positioned for receiving the thumbscrews 176 of the apparatus 36, when the apparatuses are placed as desired on the support frame 28. Referring to Figures 1-3 in one embodiment of the present invention, the extenders 56, 60 of the support frame 28 it preferably includes a plurality of laterally aligned upper threaded openings 244, and a plurality of laterally aligned lower threaded openings 248, respectively, into which the thumbscrews 176 can be threaded. As mentioned above, the threaded openings 244, 248 are preferably positioned so that they are aligned or substantially aligned with the thumbscrews 176 of the apparatus 36 when the apparatus 36 is selectively mounted in any of the plurality of lateral positions along the upper and lower extenders 56, 60. As described in more detail below, the output housing 124, in the illustrated preferred embodiment, can be selectively mounted to a top position in which a thumbscrew 176 is threaded into one of the upper threaded openings 274 along the upper extender 56, and a lower position in which the thumbscrew 176 is threaded into one of the lower threaded openings 148 along the lower extender 60. It will be appreciated that a number of different types of fasteners may be named to secure the apparatus 36 with respect to the support frame 28 after it has been placed thereon. Such alternative fasteners include pins, snap rings and other threaded fasteners, bolts, rods and the like. In addition, each apparatus 36 can secure with any number of fasteners. In some embodiments of the present invention, such fasteners are not required because the element or elements used to connect the apparatus 36 to the extenders 56, 60 (described above) also secure the apparatus 36 with respect to the extenders 56r 60. In In the preferred embodiment illustrated in the present invention, the apparatus 36 is fastened with thumbscrews 176 passed through a plate 168 extending from the outlet housing 124. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the thumbscrews 176 (u other fasteners cited as described above) do not necessarily need to pass through a plate 178 as described, but instead can pass through any outlet housing part 128 or channel 132 through any other extension, flange , or highlight on the exit housing or channel 132, and the like. Significant advantages are obtained by employing apparatus 36 which can be placed in different lateral positions as described above, allowing an assembler to join the outlet 128 in different lateral positions with respect to the supporting frame 28. In some preferred embodiments of the present invention, the outlet 128 may also or instead be joined in different vertical positions with respect to the support frame 28 as will now be described.

As reference again to Figures 1-3 the apparatus 36 may be attached to the support frame as described above face-up or face-down. In those embodiments in which the clamps 144, 148 are employed to mount the apparatus 36 to the support frame 28, multiple sets of clamps 144, 148 having clamps extending up and down can be used. Therefore, an apparatus 36 can be rotated downwards (with the electrical lines 136 passed through an opposite end of the channel 136) and can be attached to the support frame 28 as described above. This feature allows the user to quickly place the apparatus 36 on the support frame 28 at two different heights. When used in conjunction with the lateral adjustability of the apparatus as described above, greater versatility is possible. For even greater adjustability of the outlets 128 on the support frame 28, some preferred embodiments of the present invention provide the ability to position the outlet housing 124 of the apparatus 36 in different places on the channel 32. Such adjustability may be limited to two or more discrete positions or can be as many positions as desired (even in an infinite range of positions).

In one embodiment, the output housing 124 is slidably connected to the channel 132 and can slide to a number of different positions on the channel 132. For this purpose, the output housing 124 and the channel 132 can have complementary shapes, such as as recessing in channel 132 within a similarly formed slot in exit housing 124 or by passing channel 132 through openings at opposite ends of exit housing 124. In such embodiments, exit housing 124 can be secured in desired positions with respect to channel 132 in a number of different ways. For example, the openings in the outlet housing 124 and the channel 132 can be aligned by the user to pass bolts, threaded fasteners, or other elements therethrough. As another example, a spring-loaded bolt, bearing or other element may be biased towards the channel 132 to engage in openings, cavities, grooves, or other separate coupling characteristics along the channel 132. Alternatively, a or more jaws or clamps connected to the output housing 124 can couple the channel 132 in a number of different positions. In still further embodiments, the exit housing 124 may be moved to two or more positions along the channel 132 and may be releasably secured thereto by one or more conventional releasable fasteners, such as screws, bolts and other threaded fasteners. , pins or bolts and the like. As a further example, the outlet housing 124 can be mounted to the channel 132 via a track and groove arrangement in which one or more fingers or other elastic or spring-biased projections on the output housing 124 extend toward engagement with a plurality of slots, openings, detents or other cavities in the channel 132. Specifically, the fingers or other projections may be engaged within such cavities with sufficient force to secure the exit housing in place over the channel 132, but may allow a fitter forcing the output housing 124 to different positions along the channel 132 as desired. In another embodiment, the channel 132 may be provided with a flange extending laterally away from and along the channel 132. The flange can be provided with a plurality of openings in which a fastener (such as thumb screw 176) can extend from the outlet housing 124. The exit housing 124 can therefore be selectively mounted in different places to along the channel 132 by sliding or otherwise moving the output housing 124 to a desired position along the channel 132, aligning the fasteners of the outlet housing 124 with the nearest opening in the flange, and then inserting the fastener through that opening. In yet another embodiment, the support frame 28 can include a backrest located between the upper and lower extenders 50, 60 and a distance extending between the supports 52. The backrest could have a plurality of openings therein, which are aligned in a plurality of rows, so that when an apparatus 36 is selectively mounted in any of a plurality of lateral positions along the support frame 28 as described above, one or more fasteners of the exit housing 124 are aligned with one or more openings in the back The outlet housing 124 can therefore be selectively mounted along the channel 132 by placing the outlet housing 124 in a desired position along the channel 132, aligning one or more fasteners of the outlet housing 124 with one or more of the closest openings in the backrest, and then inserting the fasteners through the openings in the backrest. Other embodiments of the present invention may employ one or more elastic fingers attached to the outlet housing 124 and extending at least partially around the channel 132. Such fingers may be engaged with lips, cavities, openings, or other features on the channel 132, so as to that the fingers (and the connected output housing 124) can be releasably connected to the channel 132 at different locations along the channel 132. In some embodiments, those fingers can operate in a manner similar to the elastic arms or fingers of the fingers. clamps 144, 148 described above. The embodiments described above for the selective placement of the exit housing 124 and the exit 128 in different longitudinal positions along the channel 132 are provided by way of example only, and are not intended to be limiting.

Any fastener and fastening means for selectively positioning and retaining the exit housing 124 and the exit 128 therein at a position along the channel 132, can be used instead, and will fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. . In those embodiments where the output housing 124 and the output 128 can be placed in two or more places along the channel 132 as described above, the channel 132 is preferably formed to allow the electrical lines 136 to pass to the output housing 124 and exit 128 in the different places of the channels. By way of example only, the opening 160 in the channel 132 through which the electrical lines 136 pass to the outlet housing 124 and the outlet 128 may be elongated in shape to allow the electrical lines to exit the channel 132 in a range of locations along channel 132. Alternatively, electrical lines 136 may pass from channel side 132 to a rear or side portion of outlet housing 124. Other channel shapes and ways to pass electrical lines 136 from channel 132 to output housing 124 and outputs 128, and would be appreciated by those skilled in the art. The principles of the present invention can be applied to any furniture and wall system to which the channel 136 of the apparatus 36 can be connected. More preferably, the apparatus 36 can be connected to two or more positions on furniture systems or walls, and has an outlet housing 124 that can be placed in two or more places on the channel 132. However, it can be used any type of adjustability (described in greater detail below) without a practice different from that of the present invention. In the rack unit of the preferred embodiment illustrated, the apparatus 36 is connected to a support frame 28. In other applications, the apparatus 36 can be connected anywhere on a furniture or wall system. The term "support frame" as used herein, therefore refers to any part of the furniture system or walls to which the apparatus 36 may be connected (as otherwise described above or otherwise). The support frame 28, to which the apparatus 36 of the preferred embodiment, illustrated is attached, is substantially vertical. However, it should be noted that in other applications, the apparatus 36 may be attached in any other desired orientation (i.e., horizontal applications, diagonal applications, and the like). As described above, the apparatus 36 in some preferred embodiments can be attached to the support frame 28 in two or more horizontally placed locations. It should be noted that the apparatus 36 can instead be attached to the support frame 28 in two or more positions that are located in any other direction with respect to each other, such as vertically or diagonally with respect to each other. The different possible positions of the apparatus 36 on the support frame 28 depend at least in part on the orientation of the support frame 28 (for example, the orientation of the extenders 50, 60, or similar elements, etc.). The output housings 124 of the apparatus 36 in some preferred embodiments can be placed in two or more longitudinal locations placed along the channels 132. Because the channels 132 can be attached to different support frames in any orientation (e.g. , vertically, horizontally, diagonally and the like), just as described, the output housings 124 may instead be placed in two or more horizontal, diagonal, or different relative locations along the channels 132. As an example , the channels 132 and the extenders 56, 60 in the illustrated preferred embodiment may be in an illustration that is 90 degrees from the orientation in FIGURES 1-3 although functioning and still providing the same benefits described above. Another preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in FIGS. 4-7. This modality shares many of the same elements, structure and characteristics that were described above with respect to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIGURES 1-3. Accordingly, the elements, structure and characteristics of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4-7 corresponding to those of the embodiment shown in FIGURES 1-3 were listed in the 300-500 series while retaining the same last two digits. Except as expressly described in the following description, reference is here made to the first description of the embodiment shown in FIGURES 1-3 for information regarding the elements, structure and corresponding characteristics in the embodiment of FIGURES 4-7. The modular apparatus or conduits 336 illustrated in FIGS. 4-7 have conduits or channels 432 permanently connected to the exit housing or boxes 434 by welding or any other manner described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in FIGURES 1-3. The channels 432 are preferably U-shaped as best shown in FIGS. 5-7, any other form of channel or conduit having an interior size to receive a cable as described may be used instead, as desired. here . Each channel 432 in the preferred embodiment illustrated is preferably defined by multiple elements as shown in FIGS. 5-7. More specifically, channel 432 preferably has multiple pieces that are attached in any way to at least partially enclose electrical line 436 within channel 432. With particular reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, channel 432 preferably has a front portion 433 and a lid or back portion 435 connected together by screws 437. In some highly preferred embodiments, the front and rear portions 433, 435 enclose the electrical lines 436 along the entire length of the front and rear portions 433, | 435. In other embodiments, however, the front and rear portions 433, 435 only partially enclose the power lines 436 over their entire length. As mentioned above, the front and rear portions 433, 435 of channel 432 are preferably joined in any conventional manner. For example, the front and rear portions 433, 435 can be permanently joined together by welding, adhesive or cohesive bonding materials, pins, screws, or other threaded fasteners, rivets, bolts, posts, clamps, jaws, and other conventional fasteners, the front and rear portions 433, 435 can also be releasably joined together by interlocking devices on the front and rear portions 433, 435 which provide a snap-fit for the front and stage or rear portions 433, 435 , and similar. However, screws 437 are preferred in some embodiments (such as those shown in FIGS. 3-7) to provide a simple and inexpensive channel and apparatus design. In the preferred embodiment illustrated, the screws 437 or other fasteners are preferably passed through aligned openings in flanges on the front and rear portions 433, 435 of the channel 432 to connect the front and rear portions 433, 435 together. However, one skilled in the art will appreciate that other portions of the channel 432 may be employed to join the separate elements of the channel together, determined at least in part by the shape of the portions that are being connected. The open flanges therefore represent an example of such a collectivity. The use of two or more elements to mount the channel 432 provides a number of advantages, including the ability to remove one or more elements to gain access to the interior of the channel 432 and the electrical lines 436 therein, greater convenience in the travel of the 436 power lines, and more options for easy installation of the device 336. More preferably, the front and rear portions 433, 435 are disconnectable from each other to provide such advantages.

Accordingly, the front and rear portions 433, 435 are preferably connected together using releasable fasteners or fasteners. By employing a channel or conduit 432 constructed of multiple elements as described above, an installer has more options with respect to the manner in which the apparatus 336 is installed. By way of ele only, the installer can mount the apparatus 336 with lines 436 thereon and can then install the assembled apparatus 336 on the support frame 328, or the installer can install the stage or rear portion 435 of the apparatus 336 on the supporting frame 328, for routing the electrical lines 336 therethrough, and then covering the electrical lines 336 with the front portion 433. The removable front and rear portions 433, 435 provide the ability to have access to the interior of the channel 432 and the electrical lines 436 therein without requiring the total removal or disassembly of the apparatus 336 from the support frame 328. In many cases, an apparatus 336 can not be removed without removing or at least partially removing other elements from the support frame 328 and / or elements and structure connected to it. For ele, one or more wall panels connected to the support frame 328 can block the removal of the apparatus 336. Without the ability to access the interior of the channel 432 in such cases, the apparatus 336 may otherwise need to be removed by several. other reasons, such as to change or service the electrical outlets 428 or wired connections within the apparatus 336 to remove wires in the apparatus 336 or to place new wires in the apparatus 336. Although the two-part channels and channels having a or more removable portions provide a number of advantages to the users and installers, it will be appreciated that the channels 432 defined by the other part numbers (e.g., 3 and 4-piece channels 432) can provide similar advantages. For ele, channel 432 may have three sections, two of which are removable to have access to different sides or different lengths of channel 432. As another ele, a channel 432 may be constructed of several housing elements, any one or more of which can be removed to access any portion of the desired channel 432. As defined above, channels 432 in the illustrated preferred embodiments have front and rear portions 433, 435 that are preferably releasably connected together. In other embodiments, any of the channels 432 can be constructed of different types and combinations of elements which can be easily removed to gain access to the interior of the channel 432 or otherwise achieve the same advantages as defined above with respect to the modality illustrated in Figures 4-7. For ele, channels 432 can be defined by side-by-side channel halves connected together, two or more channel lengths connected in an end-to-end fashion, upper and / or lower removable channel portions, and the like. The channels 432 in the preferred embodiment illustrated preferably each have a front portion 433 removably connected to a rear portion 435 for the purposes described at the beginning. It should be noted that at least some of the advantages offered by a removable channel portion as defined above are also available for non-removable channel portions. For ele, the front portion 433 of the channel 432 can be rotatably connected to the rear portion 435 to allow a user to open the channel 432 and access the interior of the channel 432. As another ele, the front position 433 can be connected slidably to the rear position 435 for the same purpose of having access to the interior of the channel. Other ways of opening and closing these and different portions of channel 432 are possible., and depend at least partially on the shape of the channel 432, its component parts and the orientation and arrangement of the components of channel one with respect to another. Such other ways of opening and closing the channel 432 by moving one or more of its component parts to have easy access to the interior of the channel fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. Yet another preferred embodiment of the present invention is illustrated in Figure 8. This embodiment shares many of the same elements, structure and features as described above with respect to the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figures 4-7. Consequently, the elements, structure and characteristic of the modality illustrated in Figure 8 corresponding to those in the modality shown in Figures 4-7 were numbered in the 600-800 series containing at the same time the same two last digits. Except as expressly described in the following description, reference is therefore made to the first description of the modalities shown in Figures 4-7 for information on such elements, structure and corresponding characteristics in the embodiment of Figure 8.

As with the embodiment of the present invention illustrated in Figures 4-7, the embodiment of Figure 8 has a multi-piece rail that provides the same or similar advantages and features described above. The rear portion 735 of each rail 732 is preferably similar to the rail 132 in the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 1-3, and can be connected to the support frame 628 of the rack unit 620 in any of the ways described above with respect to to the modality of Figure 1-3. Also, the output housing 724 of the output assembly 626 may be preferably received at least partially within the front portion 733 of the rail 732. For example, the output housing 724 in the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figure 8. is located between the flanges on the front portion 733 of the rail 732. Although this relationship between the rail 732 and the exit housing 724 may result in wider tail designs in some cases, a localized outlet housing 724 or otherwise at least partially received within rail 732 may provide a more direct path for power lines 736 to and the output housing 724 of rail 732. For example, power lines 736 may pass to a side of output housing 724 instead of towards a rear part of the outlet housing 724 (as is the case in the preferred embodiment illustrated in Figures 1-3). Also, an output housing 724 at least partially received within the rail 732 can provide a more desirable appearance for the output assembly 636. Those embodiments of the present invention in which the output housing 724 is received at least partially within the rail 732, the rail 732 may have one or more openings or cavities 752 that provide access to the electrical outputs 728. The embodiments described and illustrated above in the Figures were presented by way of example only and are not intended to be limitations on the concepts and principles of the present invention. Therefore, it will be appreciated by one skilled in the art that various changes in the elements and their configuration and arrangements are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, the output assembly 36, 436 of the present invention was described above for use with power and telecommunications lines. In this regard, some embodiments of the present invention allow the output assembly 36, 436 to be rapidly disconnected in the support frame 28, 328 when desired. This allows the installer or user to easily place the outlets 128, 428 in different desired locations on the support frame 28, 328, and with respect to the modular shelf unit 20, or other furniture, wall or separation system from which the frame of support 28, 328 be part. Although the present invention was described above for use with electrical and telecommunication lines, the present invention can be employed with other types of lines and outputs to provide the same or similar advantages. By way of example only, the outlet assembly 36, 436 of the present invention can be used to receive and / or place the pneumatic or hydraulic pipe, ducts, pipes or any other type of line containing any type or mixture of gas and fluid. In such cases, the outlet 128, 428 may take a number of different forms, such as quick disconnect devices, and threaded connections, threaded connection, pressure attachments, and any other fluid or gas line connector or desired attachment. Still other applications of the output assembly 36, 436 of the present invention are possible to provide the same or similar advantages as described above. It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims (29)

1. CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property. 1. An apparatus for cooperating with a modular construction system to repositionably support a cable suitable for transmitting at least one telecommunication data and electrical power, the apparatus is characterized in that it comprises: an elongated channel that is sized to receive a suitable cable for transmit at least one telecommunications and electric power data; an outlet box mounted on the channel, the interior of the outlet box communicates with the interior of the channel; and means for removably attaching the apparatus to the modular construction system to repositionably support the cable. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it can be removably attached to the modular construction system in a plurality of positions, one of the positions being laterally offset with respect to another of the positions. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that it can be removably attached to the modular construction system in a plurality of positions, one of the positions being inverted with respect to another of the positions. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the modular construction system also includes a base; and a support frame that forms a plurality of mounting positions and is connected to the base. The apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that it can be repositionably attached to the support frame in the mounting positions, and in which the apparatus also includes an outlet and a cable placed within the suitable channel to transmit to the minus one telecommunications and electric power data. The apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that the cable has two ends, one of the ends being in electrical contact with the outlet, and the cable extends from the outlet to at least the base. The apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the cable has two ends and is retained substantially within the interior of the channel by a removable lid. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the modular construction also includes a base; and a support frame that forms a plurality of mounting positions, and is connected to the base, the support frame includes a plurality of vertically oriented, elongated supports and elongated upper and lower extenders, oriented horizontally, in at least two of the extenders cooperating to form a plurality of mounting positions. The apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that it can be removably attached to the supports essentially in the same plane as the extenders or removably attached to the extenders essentially in the same plane as the supports, so that Modular shelves or other elements of the modular construction system can be mounted on the support frame without being obstructed by the apparatus. 10. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the outlet box is substantially within the interior of the channel. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the outlet box is substantially outside the interior of the channel. 12. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the outlet box is mounted in a repositionable manner on the channel. The apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that the means for removably attaching the apparatus to the modular construction system includes a thumbscrew to fix the apparatus to the support frame. 14. A modular construct for use with a construction system to form mounting locations to repositionably support a cable suitable for transmitting at least one telecommunication data and electrical power, the modular conduit comprises: an elongated channel having a portion open to provide an excess to the inside of the channel, and is sized to receive a suitable cable to transmit at least one telecommunications data and electric power; a lid that is placed over at least a portion in the open portion to restrict access to the interior of the channel; an outlet box mounted on the channel, the interior of the outlet box communicates with the interior of the channel; and means for releasably ching the modular conduit to the mounting locations so that the modular conduit and the modular construction system support the cable in a cooperative and repositionable manner. The modular conduit according to claim 14, characterized in that it also includes a clamp for retaining the cable substantially within the channel. 16. The modular conduit according to claim 14, characterized in that the modular construction system also includes a base; and a support frame, which forms a plurality of mounting positions and is connected to the 17. The modular conduit according to claim 14, characterized in that the modular construction system also includes a base; and a support frame that forms a plurality of mounting positions, and is connected to the base, the support frame includes a plurality of vertically oriented, elongated supports and elongated upper and lower extenders, oriented horizontally, in at least two of the extenders cooperating to form a plurality of mounting positions. The modular conduit according to claim 17, characterized in that it can be repositionably attached to the support frame in the mounting positions, and in which the apparatus also includes an outlet and a cable placed within the suitable channel to transmit at least one of telecommunications and electric power data. 19. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the outlet box is substantially within the interior of the channel. 20. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the outlet box is substantially outside the interior of the channel. 21. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the lid is removable. 22. The apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that the lid is connected in a rotatable manner. 23. A work station, characterized in that it includes an energy output and / or data connection port, a work station which is characterized in that it comprises: a base; a support frame that forms a plurality of mounting positions and is connected to the base; and a modular conduit removably attached to the support frame in the mounting positions, the modular conductor includes a channel sized to receive a cable suitable for transmitting at least one telecommunication data and electrical power, and one output. 24. The work station according to claim 23, characterized in that it also includes a cover to restrict access to the interior of the channel. 25. The workstation according to claim 23, characterized in that it also includes a clamp for retaining the cable substantially within the interior of the channel. 26. The workstation according to claim 23, characterized in that the base includes a base plate attached to the support frame. 27. The workstation according to claim 23, characterized in that it also includes a filler panel attached to the support frame. 28. The workstation according to claim 23, characterized in that it also includes at least one shelf connected to the support frame. 29. A method for repositionably supporting a cable in a modular construction system that forms a plurality of mounting locations, the method is characterized in that it comprises: providing a modular construction system forming a plurality of mounting locations; removably attaching an elongated channel for a modular construction system at one of the mounting locations, the channel having a substantially open side to provide access to the interior of the channel and an outlet box mounted on a channel, the interior of the box of exit communicates with the interior of the channel; placing within the channel interior a suitable cable for transmitting at least one of telecommunication and electric power data; and installing an output in the output box, the output electrically connected to the cable and suitable for transmitting at least telecommunication and electric power data.