The Herman Miller Canvas Vista Chase system is a modular furniture solution designed for office environments, offering customizable cable management, support for work surfaces, and integration with storage units. The installation and adjustment process involves several technical steps, including assembly of chase extrusions, alignment of structural components, and installation of support brackets. This article provides a detailed overview of the installation process based on official installation and disassembly instructions provided by Herman Miller.
Overview of the Herman Miller Canvas Vista Chase System
The Canvas Vista Chase system is part of Herman Miller's Canvas product line, designed for collaborative and adaptable office environments. The chase is a structural component that supports data cables, integrates with work surfaces, and provides support for storage units. It includes extrusions, alignment pins, nut plates, and mounting brackets, all of which are essential for proper installation.
Installation requires specific tools and careful attention to detail, particularly in ensuring that all joints and connections are secure to prevent sagging or misalignment. The system supports multiple configurations, including basic setups, work surface supports, and storage support installations.
Installation Steps for the Canvas Vista Chase
1. Positioning and Alignment
The first step in installing the Canvas Vista Chase is positioning the chase extrusions in the intended location. According to the instructions, the chase extrusions should be placed upside down on the floor to facilitate the installation of alignment pins and other structural components. The alignment pins are tapped into the chase ends until the knurled area is fully inside the chase, ensuring a secure fit.
Once the alignment pins are installed, the next step involves laying the bundle of data cables into the center cavity of the chase. This step is crucial for cable management, as it prevents the cables from becoming disorganized and tangled during the installation process.
2. Securing the Chase with Nut Plates and Screws
After the alignment pins are in place, the next step is to loosely assemble the nut plates to the top side of the end legs using M10 screws. These nut plates serve as mounting points for additional components, such as work surface supports and storage units. The use of M8 screws and long M8 hex bolts is also mentioned in the instructions for securing the nut plates to the chase.
It is important to note that all electrical connectors must be fully engaged and locked during installation. Loose connections can lead to electrical hazards such as fire or electrical shock. Therefore, it is recommended to double-check all connections before proceeding to the next step.
3. Adjusting and Leveling the Chase
Adjusting and leveling the chase is a critical part of the installation process. The instructions mention that larger adjustments can be made in half-inch increments by re-installing the two bolts. For smaller adjustments, the glides at the bottom of the leg or foot can be used. This allows for fine-tuning the position of the chase to ensure it is level and aligned with the surrounding furniture.
In some configurations, the Chase attached work surfaces may require additional support. The instructions specify that the pre-drilled holes in the work surface should be used to locate the Post Leg. This ensures that the work surface is properly supported and does not sag or tilt.
4. Installing Storage Support
The Canvas Vista Chase can also be integrated with storage units, which require a different installation approach. The storage support is fastened to the storage unit top with self-tapping screws after pre-drilling the holes with a 1/8” diameter drill bit. The clamp is then engaged in the opening between the top panel and the side panel of the storage unit.
Separating the top plate and inner extrusion from the chase is necessary to install the storage support. This is done by removing the two M8 screws from the side of the storage support. The bottom weldment of the storage support is then connected to the chase using the same M8 screws.
5. Routing Power and Cable Management
If power is routed up the intermediate leg, an intermediate leg power cover must be installed. This is an alternative support method that provides a secure path for electrical cables. The power cover is installed after the intermediate leg is in place, ensuring that all electrical connections are properly protected and organized.
The instructions also emphasize the importance of keeping all electrical connectors fully engaged and locked. This not only ensures the safety of the installation but also prevents potential damage to the electrical components.
Adjusting and Reassembling the Chase
After the initial installation, adjustments may be necessary to ensure the chase is level and properly aligned. The instructions provide specific details on how to make these adjustments. For instance, the yoke at the bottom of the leg can be loosened to allow the leg to move freely. This is done by loosening the screw just enough to move the yoke to the desired location.
In some cases, smaller adjustments of half an inch or less can be made using the glides at the bottom of the leg or foot. This allows for fine-tuning the position of the chase without having to completely disassemble the structure.
The upper corner bracket on each of the Chase end legs must also be installed. This bracket provides additional support and stability, particularly in configurations where the chase is used to support work surfaces or storage units.
Disassembly and Recycling Instructions
For disassembly and recycling purposes, the instructions specify that the chase can be taken apart by separating the top plate and inner extrusion. This is done by removing the two M8 screws from the side of the storage support. The bottom weldment of the storage support is then disconnected from the chase.
The instructions also mention that the chase can be recycled by following the appropriate recycling procedures. This includes separating the metal components from any plastic or electrical components, which should be disposed of separately to comply with local recycling regulations.
Conclusion
The Herman Miller Canvas Vista Chase system is a versatile and modular furniture solution that requires careful installation and adjustment. The process involves positioning the chase extrusions, securing the nut plates and screws, adjusting and leveling the structure, and integrating with work surfaces and storage units. Proper attention to detail is essential to ensure the system is stable, level, and safe to use.
By following the detailed installation and disassembly instructions provided by Herman Miller, users can successfully assemble and maintain their Canvas Vista Chase system. The emphasis on electrical safety and structural integrity ensures that the system remains functional and secure for extended periods.