US20060282949A1 - Multi-purpose furniture article - Google Patents
Multi-purpose furniture article Download PDFInfo
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- US20060282949A1 US20060282949A1 US11/156,779 US15677905A US2006282949A1 US 20060282949 A1 US20060282949 A1 US 20060282949A1 US 15677905 A US15677905 A US 15677905A US 2006282949 A1 US2006282949 A1 US 2006282949A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- frame
- article
- cushion
- end members
- cover
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C1/00—Chairs adapted for special purposes
- A47C1/14—Beach chairs ; Chairs for outdoor use, e.g. chairs for relaxation or sun-tanning
- A47C1/146—Beach chairs ; Chairs for outdoor use, e.g. chairs for relaxation or sun-tanning of legless type
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47B—TABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
- A47B85/00—Furniture convertible into other kinds of furniture
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C13/00—Convertible chairs, stools or benches
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47C—CHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
- A47C9/00—Stools for specified purposes
- A47C9/10—Camp, travelling, or sports stools
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- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
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- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Combinations Of Kitchen Furniture (AREA)
- Buffer Packaging (AREA)
Abstract
An article of furniture including a frame, a cushion member, a cover member, and at least one carrying strap. The frame includes first and second opposing end members and a plurality of cross-supports coupled between the end members. Each end member defines a triangle shape having an open center. The frame defines at least three side support surfaces between the end members and the end members define opposing end support surfaces. The frame member also defines a cavity that is accessible through the open center of each end member. The cushion member is attached at one end thereof to the frame and is configured to wrap around the side support surfaces of the frame. The cover member is coupled to the frame to cover the open center of one of the end members. The at least one carrying strap is coupled to the frame and is configured for moving the article when the cushion member is wrapped around the frame.
Description
- The present disclosure relates to furniture articles, and more specifically relates to multi-purpose furniture articles.
- There are many different styles of furniture that convert between a chair structure and a bed structure. A futon is an example style of convertible furniture. Futons typically include a rigid frame coupled together with a plurality of hinged connections. The futon frame is adjustable between an upright position in the form of a chair with a backrest to a generally horizontal position in the form of a bed. Futons, like most other convertible furniture, are large and bulky. Futons also require significant space and are difficult to move/transport. A convertible furniture article that addresses these and other disadvantages would be an advance in the art.
- The present disclosure relates to furniture articles, and more specifically relates to furniture articles that convert into different forms for different uses. An example furniture article according to principles of the present disclosure includes a frame member having a triangular cross-section and at least one open end. An elongate cushion member can be wrapped or unwrapped from the frame to alter an amount of exposed cushion for sitting or lying or for resting against the frame member. The furniture article can include attachments that provide additional functionality. For example, a cover member may be secured to the frame to removably cover the open end of the frame to conceal items stored in an inner cavity defined by the frame. Another example attachment is a carrying strap such as a shoulder strap that is attached to the frame and used to carry the furniture article. The furniture article may also be turned on its end and used to support a table top on an upward facing end of the frame.
- Another aspect of the invention relates to an article of furniture that includes a frame, a cushion member, a cover member, and at least one carrying strap. The frame includes first and second opposing end members and a plurality of cross- supports coupled between the end members. Each end member defines a generally triangular shape having an open center. The cross-supports define three side support surfaces that extend between the end members. The end members define opposing end support surfaces. The frame member defines a cavity that is accessible through the open center of each end member. The cushion member is attached at one end thereof to the frame and is configured to wrap around the side support surfaces of the frame. The cover member is coupled to the frame to cover the open center of one of the end members. The at least one carrying strap is coupled to the frame and is configured for moving the article when the cushion member is wrapped around the frame.
- A further aspect of the invention relates to a method of assembling a furniture member. The furniture member includes a frame, a cushion member, at least one cover, and at least one carrying strap. The frame includes opposing generally triangular shaped end members and a plurality of cross-supports coupling the end members together. The end members include open center portions, wherein the frame defines a cavity that is accessible through the open center portions. The method includes the steps of coupling the end members together with the cross-supports, securing one end of the cushion member to the frame, and wrapping the cushion member around the frame wherein the open center portions are exposed to provide access to the cavity. The method further includes securing the at least one cover to one of the end members to at least partially cover the open center portion, and securing the at least one carrying strap to the frame for lifting or moving of the furniture article.
- A still further aspect of the invention relates to an article of furniture that includes a frame, a cushion member, and at least one detachable accessory coupled to the frame. The frame includes first and second opposing end members and a plurality of cross-supports coupled between the end members. Each end member includes at least three legs coupled together to define a triangle shape having an open center. The cross-supports define at least three side support surfaces that extend between the end members. The end members define opposing end support surfaces, wherein the frame member defines a cavity that is accessible through the open center of at least one of the end members. The cushion member is attached at one end thereof to the frame and is configured to wrap around the side support surfaces of the frame. The at least one detachable accessory is selected from the group consisting of a cover member configured to cover the open center of one of the end members, a carrying strap, and a table top supported on one of the end support surfaces when the frame is supported on the other end support surface.
- Other methods of using and adjusting of the furniture article may also be possible according to the inventive principles disclosed herein.
- The above summary of the present invention is not intended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementation of the present invention. The Figures and the detailed description that follow more particularly exemplify certain embodiments of the invention. While certain embodiments will be illustrated and describe embodiments of the invention, the invention is not limited to use in such embodiments.
- The invention may be more completely understood in consideration of the following detailed description of various embodiments of the invention in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
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FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an example convertible furniture article; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the article shown inFIG. 1 with a cushion partially mounted on a frame; -
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the article shown inFIG. 1 with a cushion completely mounted on a frame; -
FIG. 4 is perspective view of the frame shown inFIG. 1 oriented upright on an end of the frame and a tabletop supported on an opposing end of the frame; -
FIG. 4A is a bottom perspective view of another example tabletop; -
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a frame of another example convertible furniture article that includes carrying straps; -
FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a frame of another example convertible furniture article that includes end cover members and support webbing; -
FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a frame of another example convertible furniture article that includes an interior mounted shelf; -
FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the frame ofFIG. 7 in an upright position having a different interior mounted shelf positioned therein; -
FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another example convertible furniture article having a cushion with multiple separable sections; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a double wide convertible furniture article; -
FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a frame of another example convertible furniture article that includes solid end and side support surfaces; and -
FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a frame of another example convertible furniture article that includes a rotatable cylinder positioned within the frame. - While the invention is amenable to various modifications and alternate forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of example and the drawings, and will be described in detail. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention.
- The present disclosure relates to furniture articles that are adjustable into different shapes and sizes for different uses. An example furniture article includes a frame member, a cushion member, and at least one attachment that provides additional functionality. The frame member has a generally triangular cross-section with opposing end support surfaces and at least three side support surfaces defined between the end support surfaces. The cushion member is configured to wrap around the side support surfaces. The frame defines a cavity that is accessible through an opening in at least one of the end support surfaces and the side support surfaces. The cushion member may help further define the cavity by enclosing portions of the cavity.
- An example attachment for the furniture article is a cover member that removably covers the opening into the cavity through one of the end support surfaces or the side support surfaces. Another example attachment is a carrying strap such as a shoulder strap that is attached to the frame, wherein the furniture article can be carried, for example, on a person's back side using the shoulder strap. A still further example attachment is a tabletop that is supported by the frame when the frame is turned so that the frame is supported by one of the end support surfaces. The cushion member may be wrapped around the frame to improve aesthetics and the tabletop can serve as a serving area or work surface that is spaced apart from the ground by the frame member.
- By wrapping or unwrapping the cushion member from the frame member, the amount of cushion member exposed on the flooring on which the furniture article rests can vary according to a user's preference. For example, if a user would like to use the cushion member as a bed that extends substantially horizontally, the cushion member can be completely or substantially unwrapped from the frame. If the user would like only a short seating surface and a backrest, a small part of the cushion member can be unwrapped from the frame and used for sitting upon while the covered portion of the frame can be used as the backrest. If the user would prefer to store the furniture article or use the furniture article and frame as a seating surface to sit on top of, the cover member may be wrapped completely around the frame. It may be possible to double wrap portions of the cushion member over itself around the frame to provide additional cushioning for sitting or carrying, or to maximize size reduction for the furniture article.
- The cushion member may be unwrapped from the frame member and rolled upon itself into a size that can be inserted into the cavity defined by the frame. This option provides even further minimizing of the overall size of the furniture article for the purpose of, for example, storage and transport of the furniture article.
- The cover member attachment may be especially useful for concealing items stored within the furniture article. The cover member may have many different sizes and shapes that provide covering of, for example, openings into the frame cavity, portions of the frame itself, and portions of the cushion member. In this way, the internal cavity defined by the frame member can also be used for concealing stored articles. In some embodiments, multiple cover members may be used to cover or conceal various portions of the frame, openings defined by the frame, or portions of the cavity defined by the frame.
- Preferably, the furniture article is made from relatively lightweight materials so that the article is easier to transport. The combination of lightweight materials and a compact size when the cushion member is completely wrapped around the frame provides improved ease in transporting and carrying the furniture article. The furniture article may include the strap attachments noted above for the purpose of transporting the furniture article between, for example, a user's residence (e.g., inside a user's home or on a patio, deck or pool at the residence) and a park, beach, pool, campsite, etc.
- The frame member of the furniture article preferably includes sufficient structural rigidity and strength to support a user sitting on the furniture article when the furniture article is resting on one of the side support surfaces, or to support the tabletop accessory noted above when the frame is turned onto one of its ends and supported on one of the end support surfaces. The height of the tabletop from the ground is determined by the frame width between the end support surfaces (e.g., single, twin, or queen sized width).
- While many of the example furniture articles described below include features and comprise materials that enhance portability of the furniture article, these are examples only. Other features and materials may be used within the scope of the present disclosure that may be more useful for stationary and less mobile furniture articles.
- Referring now to
FIGS. 1-3 , anexample furniture article 10 is shown and described.Article 10 includes aframe 12 and acushion 14. Thecushion 14 has a length L and a width W1 and theframe 12 has a width W2 that substantially matches the width W1 of thecushion 14. Providing substantially equal widths W1 and W2 permits theframe 12 to overlap with outer edges of thecushion 14 to provide support for thecushion 14. In some embodiments, the width W1 may be less than the width W2 so that more of theframe 12 is exposed. In some embodiments, portions of theframe 12 may include a recess wherein thecushion 12 can reside to provide, for example, a flush mounting of an exposed top surface of thecushion 14 with theframe 12. In other embodiments, the W1 may be greater than the width W2 so that thecushion 14 overlaps and covers more of theframe 12. - The
frame 12 includes first andsecond end members end members third legs end members frame 12, and the cross supports 24, 26, 28 define side support surfaces 25, 27, 29 that extend parallel to each other between theend members end members - The
frame 12 may include a plurality of mountingmembers 26 exposed on either theend members members 36 may be configured for attachment of various attachment members to theframe 12, such as attachment of thecushion 14 to theframe 12. The mountingmembers 36 may be in the form of, for example, pegs, screws, hooks, buckles or fastening materials such as Velcro or fabric ties, or an aperture through which a fastener, tie, or other structure can pass through for attachment to theframe 12. - While the illustrated
frame 12 comprises a triangle-shaped frame, other frame cross-sections may also be useful. A triangle cross-section provides the desired support, strength, and angled backrest surfaces for many applications. A triangle cross- section can be altered slightly to provide different support surface angles by adjusting the length of one or more of the three legs of the triangle portion, thereby providing at least two different back rest angles. Frame cross-sections other than triangles may be used in other designs wherein specific functions (e.g., backrest angles, structural strength, storage space, etc.) are desired. - The
end members legs cushion member 14 around theframe 12. The curved shape may also improve comfort when theframe 12, covered by thecushion 14, is used as a seating surface. The cross supports 24, 26, 28 extend between theend members end members frame 12 is provided with at least three separate primary pieces that when secured together provide theelongate frame member 12 having a triangular cross-section as shown inFIGS. 1-3 . - The
end members end members frame 12. - The
frame 12 may include different cross support designs that provide advantages for some furniture article configurations. For example, the cross supports may cross diagonally between the end members to form a crisscross pattern. The cross supports may have different cross sectional shapes (e.g., circular or rectangular) that provide different amounts of contact surface area for thecushion 14. These and other considerations for the cross supports are possible in different frame designs. - Various portions of the frame may define openings through which the internal cavity of the frame can be accessed. Any of these openings may be used to access the cavity. For example,
FIGS. 1-4 illustrate aframe 12 that defines openings into the cavity of the frame through theends FIG. 10 illustrates a frame 512 that defines anopening 521 in aside support surface 525 betweenends opening 521 is covered by adoor 560, wherein thedoor 560 controls access into the frame internal cavity. Thedoor 560 may be secured to the frame 512 with hinges 566 and alatch mechanism 564. In other embodiments, a cover member may be used to cover some or all openings into the frame separate from or in addition to the covering function of the cushion member when wrapped around the frame. - The
frame 12 may comprise many different types of material that provide different advantages for thefurniture article 10. Relatively lightweight materials such as, for example, bamboo, rattan, polymer based material (e.g., plastic), aluminum, composites, and the like, may provide improved maneuvering and portability of the furniture article. The use of heavier materials such as hardwood, metals materials such as stainless steel and hammered copper, and some types of polymer based materials may provide maximum stability and durability but less portability of the furniture article. The use of different frame material can also significantly influence the style of the furniture article. For example, some types of material may be perceived as being more modern, traditional, casual, or rustic style. - The
cushion 14 includes a plurality ofsections 40 along its length. Eachsection 40 preferably has a width W1 and is coupled to the adjacent section via a continuous piece of fabric that extends along abottom surface 42. Thetop surface 44 is exposed for engagement by the user whereas thebottom surface 42 is intended to engage the supporting ground surface or the side support surfaces of theframe 12. In some embodiments, the top andbottom surfaces - The
cushion 14 includes first and second ends 46, 48 and a plurality ofties 49 attached to eachend ties 49 can be used to secure thecushion member 14 to theframe 12 for positive attachment thereto. The mountingmembers 36 may be used to help retain theties 49 in a certain location on theframe 12. Theties 49 may be coupled directly to the mountingmembers 36 or directly to the frame ends 20, 22 orcross-supports ties 49 may be permanently secured to theframe 12 and thecushion 14 includes rings or other attachment structure at various locations along the length and across a width of thecushion 14 to which the ties can be removably secured. - The cushion may have different numbers of
sections 40 along its length L in different embodiments. The cushion may also have different section sizes for each side support surface of the frame. Varying the number of sections for a given side support surface may provide different types of padding and wrapping for different uses of the furniture article Also, thesections 40 may be provided as separate segments that are detachable or added on to the cushion to adjust the overall length of thecushion 14. Thecushion 14 may include a single section defined across the width W1 and along its length L rather than having a plurality of sections. - The
cushion 14 may comprise any desired material for the cushion filler and the cover that retains the filler. For example, the filler may be a synthetic material such as open or close cell foam, or a natural material such as down or cotton. The cover material may include properties such as being waterproof and high durability, which are especially useful for outdoor applications (e.g., the pool, camping, or the beach), or other properties that are better suited for interior applications. The style and patterns associated with the cushion can be matched with, for example, the interior or exterior décor of a user's residence. -
FIG. 1 illustrates thecushion 14 completely unwrapped from theframe 12. In this bed orientation, the cushion may be best suited for a user-sleeping surface.FIG. 2 illustrates thecushion 14 partially wrapped around theframe 12 and supported on support surface 27 (seeFIG. 1 for support surface 27). In this chair arrangement, the wrapped portion of thecushion 14 provides a backrest for a user while the unwrapped portion provides a seating surface for the user. In other arrangements, thecushion 14 can be wrapped around two or three of the side support surfaces 25, 27, 29 of theframe 12 while still providing at least onesection 40 along a supporting ground surface upon which the user can sit. -
FIG. 3 illustrates thecushion 14 completely wrapped around theframe 12 and supported against the side support surfaces 25, 27, 29. In this orientation, thefurniture article 10 can be transported easily because of the compact arrangement of the cushion around the frame. With thecushion 14 covering portions of theframe 12, the furniture article 10 (e.g.,frame 12 covered by cushion 14) may also be used as a seat for sitting on top of, for example, in a straddle mount position. In the orientation shown inFIG. 3 , the interior of the furniture article, which is accessible through the open ends defined by theend members cushion 14. In this arrangement, thefurniture article 10 is also arranged for compact storage. - Referring now to
FIG. 4 , theframe 12 is shown reoriented into a vertical orientation resting uponend member 22 with theopposing end member 20 supporting atabletop 50. Thetabletop 50 defines an exposed primary surface 51. Thetabletop 50 may have any shape or size desired. In the illustrated embodiment, the tabletop is triangle shaped and has a circumference greater than a circumference of theend members frame 12 with a circumference equal to or less than thecircumference end members - The
tabletop 50 may include attachment devices to provide a positive attachment between theframe 12 and thetabletop 50. For example, a bottom side of thetabletop 57 shown inFIG. 4A may include a rim 53 that is shaped and sized to fit within the opening defined byend members tabletop 50 on theframe 12. In other embodiments, other attachment features such as latches, hooks, brackets, etc. may be used to mate with or otherwise engage the mountingmembers 36 extending from theend member 20 or other portions of theframe 12. Thetabletop 50 may also include features such as thehinges 55 that permit adjustment of thetabletop 50 into different sizes. In some embodiments, the tabletop can be adjusted in size for use with different frame sizes. In other embodiments, the tabletop can be sized or adjustable in size to fit into the internal cavity of the frame for storage of the tabletop. - The
cushion 14 is not shown wrapped around theframe 12 inFIG. 4 , but may be wrapped around theframe 12 for aesthetic and storage purposes. In some embodiments, theframe member 12 may have an ornate or otherwise decorative, aesthetically pleasing structure that can be used without thecushion 14 wrapped around the side surfaces 25, 27, 29 or fit within the cavity of theframe 12. - Referring now to
FIG. 5 , anotherexample frame 112 is shown and described.Frame member 112 includes first andsecond end members shoulder straps 52, 54 are coupled to mountingmembers 36 on respective first andsecond end members frame 112. Thestraps 52, 54 may include additional padding for improved comfort in carrying the furniture article. - In some configurations, the shoulder straps 52, 54 may be coupled between the first and
second end members separate shoulder straps 52, 54 designated for each separate end member. This attachment arrangement would reorient theframe 112 in a vertical orientation when carried by thestraps 52, 54 with one of theend members end members FIG. 5 also illustrates theend members FIGS. 1-4 . This different triangular design for theend members - The additional cross supports 125, 127, 129 shown in
FIG. 5 can provide additional support for a cushion member (not shown) and rigidity of theframe 112. Still further cross supports (not shown) may be used in other embodiments. - Referring now to
FIG. 6 , theframe 12 is shown further including acover member 56 and cushion supports 57. Thecovers 56 are coupled to each of theend members frame 12, which opening is accessible through the opening defined by each of theend members covers 56 may be secured to theframe 12 with any desired attachment structure or device such as ties, buckles, straps, hooks, etc. Theframe 12 may include additional mountingmembers 36 to help couple thecovers 56 to theframe 12. - The
covers 56 are preferably detachable from the frame to provide access into the internal cavity defined by theframe 12. In some embodiments, one or more of the covers may be permanently attached to the frame. Some cover member configurations may provide, for example, a complete seal over the opening defined by the end member to which it is attached. In some embodiments, the covers may comprise a fabric material or any other flexible, collapsible material. In other embodiments, the covers may comprise a relatively rigid, lightweight material such as plastic or other polymer based materials. The covers may be modified in some embodiments to cover other portions of theframe 12 such as the side supports 24, 26, 28. In some embodiments, one or more of the covers may be used to cover or otherwise encapsulate all or most portions of theframe 12 separate from the covering function of a cushion that wraps around theframe 12. - The
covers 56 could comprise a material type and pattern that matches thecushion 14 andstraps 52, 54 so that the look and style of the furniture article is coordinated. - The cushion supports 57 extend between at least some of the cross supports 24, 26, 28 to provide additional support for portions of the
cushion member 14 that are wraps around theframe 12. The cushion supports 57 may be continuous pieces that wrap around all of thesupports supports end members FIG. 6 . In still further embodiments, the cushion supports 57 may comprise relatively rigid material to provide maximum strength and support for thecushion 14. - Referring now to
FIG. 7 , theframe 12 includes first andsecond end members shelf brackets 60 are coupled to theend members shelf 58 positioned within the internal cavity defined by theframe 12. Theshelf brackets 60 are positioned at a mid-point along each leg of each of theend members shelf 58 generally at a vertical center within the cavity offrame 12. In other embodiments additional shelf brackets may be included at different vertical heights (e.g., positions along the length of each leg of the end members) so as to provide additional shelf positions. In some embodiments, each leg of eachend member frame 12 that corresponds to a desired amount of cushion member wrapped around theframe 12. -
FIG. 7 also illustrates a plurality of intermediate mountingmembers 37 positioned at a mid point along the legs of each of theend members intermediate mounting members 37 may have the same or different configurations as compared to the mountingmembers 36. Theintermediate mounting members 37 also provide mounting or attachment of additional or different attachment devices to theframe 12. For example, thecovers 56 illustrated inFIG. 6 may be additionally secured to theends members 37 to provide further connection of thecover 56 to theframe 12. Other orientations for the additional mountingmembers 37 may be provided on the frame at any desired location. -
FIG. 7A illustrates theframe 12 including shelf brackets 61 positioned along the side supports 224, 226, 228 for mounting of a separateinternal shelf 59. In other embodiments, a plurality of additional brackets 61 can be positioned along the length of thesupports shelf 59 within the internal cavity defined by theframe 12. - The
shelves shelves shelves - Referring now to
FIG. 8 , anotherfurniture article 310 is shown and described.Article 310 includes aframe 312 having a width W4 and a support surface length L2. Thearticle 310 also includes acushion 314 having a plurality ofsections 340 each having a width W3 and a length L1. Ends of thecushion 314 may be coupled to theframe 312 withties 49. Preferably, eachsection 340 is sized with a length L1 and width W3 that match with the length L2 and width W4 of theframe 312 so that one section completely covers a separate side support surface of theframe 312. The width of theframe 312 is greater than the overall width of those embodiments discussed with reference toFIGS. 1-8 . - The
frame 312 is shown having three separate triangularshaped end members end members frame 312. - Referring now to
FIG. 9 , anotherfurniture article 410 is shown including aframe 412 and acushion 414. Theframe 12 includes at least oneend member 420 defining an opening that is at least partially covered with a door 62. The door 62 is attached to theend member 420 with a pair of hinges 66 and alatch 64, but may be attached to theend member 420 with any desired structure. The door 62 can provide access into as well as restrict access into an internal cavity defined by theframe 412 that is accessible through the opening of theend member 420. - The
cushion 414 includes a plurality ofsections 440 andextensions sections 440 may have a length L3 that is small enough such that three ormore sections 440 are required to cover each length L2 of theframe 414. Thesegments more sections 440 and may be secured to each other via a plurality ofties 49 or other attachment structures (e.g., Velcro, buckles, pins, etc.). Theextensions cushion 414 regardless of the amount of thecushion 414 that is wrapped around theframe 412. - The
cushion 414 may have a width that is less than or greater than the width theframe 412. In some embodiments, two ormore cushions 414 may be used across the width of theframe 412 to cover the cushion support surfaces of theframe 412. - Referring to
FIG. 11 , a frame 612 of another example furniture article includesend members rotatable cylinder 692 is retained. Ashelf member 658 is retained in thecylinder 692 with a plurality of mountingbrackets 660. Thecylinder 692 is secured to the frame 612 in a way that permits rotation of thecylinder 692 relative to the frame 612 as the frame rotates about its longitudinal axis (e.g., the axis extending between theend members 620, 622). -
FIG. 11 illustrates an example structure (cylinder 690) for securing thecylinder 692 to the frame 612 while permitting relative rotation of thecylinder 692. Thecylinder 690 is fixed to the frame in a predefined rotated position. Thecylinder 692 is rotatable within thecylinder 692. A contact surface between thecylinders cylinder 692. In other embodiments, thecylinder 690 may be replaces with brackets, bearing, or the like, that retain thecylinder 692 while still proving positive attachment of thecylinder 692. The ability of thecylinder 692 to rotation relative to the frame 612 provide the ability of the frame 612 to roll when wrapping a cushion (e.g., cushion 14) around the frame while maintaining ashelf 658 at constant horizontal orientation. As a result, items supported on theshelf 658 or at any other position within the internal cavity of thecylinder 692 will be less likely to tip over or be damaged when using the frame 612 in the different ways described above. - The
cylinder 692 may include solid sidewalls as shown inFIG. 11 that extend around a circumference of thecylinder 692. In other embodiments, thecylinder 692 may include partial sidewalls that extend around a portion of the cylinder circumference, or may include only a frame of circular end members and a plurality of cross supports coupling the end members together. - The
cylinder 692 may include one or more doors or covers that restrict access and further enclose an interior cavity defined by thecylinder 692. The doors/covers may be positioned over the openings defined at opposing ends of thecylinder 692 or along the sidewall of thecylinder 692. - The
shelf 658 may be positioned at any orientation within the internal cavity defined by thecylinder 692, and may have any shape or size. The shelf 568 may comprise a solid, rigid material or may comprise a flexible, collapsible material such as fabric. Preferably, theshelf 658 is removable from thecylinder 692 and adjustable (e.g., in size, shape, or orientation). - The present invention should not be considered limited to the particular examples or materials described above, but rather should be understood to cover all aspects of the invention as fairly set out in the attached claims. Various modifications, equivalent processes, as well as numerous structures to which the present invention may be applicable will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art to which the present invention is directed upon review of the instant specification.
Claims (26)
1. An article of furniture, comprising:
a frame including first and second opposing end members and a plurality of cross-supports coupled between the end members, each end member defining a triangle shape having an open center, the frame defining at least three side support surfaces that extend between the end members, the end members defining opposing end support surfaces, and the frame member defining a cavity that is accessible through the open center of each end member;
a cushion member attached at one end thereof to the frame and configured to wrap around the side support surfaces of the frame;
a cover member coupled to the frame to cover the open center of one of the end members; and
at least one carrying strap coupled to the frame, the carrying strap being configured for moving the article when the cushion member is wrapped around the frame.
2. The article of claim 1 , wherein the end members in a first article orientation are arranged perpendicular to a horizontal plane, and in a second article orientation the end members are arranged parallel to the horizontal plane with one of the end members supported on a ground surface.
3. The article of claim 2 , wherein the cushion member in the first article orientation is configured for at least partial unwrapping from the frame, the unwrapped portion providing a seating surface for a user and the wrapped portion providing a back rest for the user.
4. The article of claim 2 , wherein the cushion in the first article orientation is configured for complete unwrapping from the frame, the unwrapped portion providing a bed surface for a user lying in a generally horizontally extended orientation.
5. The article of claim 2 , further comprising a table top defining a generally planar primary surface, wherein when the article is in the second article orientation the table top is supported on a end member that is positioned on an upward facing side of the article.
6. The article of claim 1 , further comprising first and second carrying straps, opposing end of the first straps being secured to one of the end member and opposing ends of the second strap being secured to the other of the end members, wherein the carrying straps are configured for use against a user's shoulders with the wrapped cushion member positioned between the frame and the user's back.
7. The article of claim 1 , wherein a first end of the strap is coupled to an end member at one intersection the legs and a second end of the strap is coupled to the end member at a different intersection of the legs.
8. The article of claim 1 , wherein the cushion member includes a plurality of sections, the sections being defined along a length of the cushion member.
9. The article of claim 1 , wherein cushion member includes at least two sections arranged and configured to cover each side support surface of the frame.
10. The article of claim 9 , wherein at least one of the sections is detachable from the cushion member.
11. The article of claim 1 , comprising first and second carrying straps, wherein opposing ends of one of the straps are attached to the first side of the frame and opposing ends of the other are is attached to the second side of the frame.
12. The article of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cover member is configured as a table top and includes a generally planar primary surface and comprises a rigid or semi-rigid material.
13. The article of claim 1 , wherein the frame includes attachment members exposed on an outward facing surface at each of the three corners of each of the sub-frame members.
14. The article of claim 1 , wherein the cover member comprises a fabric material.
15. The article of claim 1 , wherein the frame includes a shelf member extending parallel to the cross-support between two of the support surfaces.
16. The article of claim 1 , wherein the frame comprises material selected from a group consisting of fibrous wood material, polymer based material, and metal material.
17. A method of assembling a furniture member, the furniture member including a frame, a cushion member, at least one cover, and at least one carrying strap, the frame including opposing generally triangular shaped end members and a plurality of cross-supports coupling the end members together, the end members including open center portions and the frame defining a cavity therein, the method comprising the steps of:
coupling the end members together with the cross-supports;
securing one end of the cushion member to the frame;
wrapping the cushion member around the frame wherein the open center portions are exposed to provide access to the cavity;
securing the at least one cover to one of the end members to at least partially cover the open center portion; and
securing the at least one carrying strap to the frame.
18. The method of claim 17 , wherein the furniture member is moveable using the at least one carrying strap.
19. An article of furniture, comprising:
a frame including first and second opposing end members and a plurality of cross-supports coupled between the end members, each end member including at least three legs coupled together to define a triangle shape having an open center, the cross-supports defining three side support surfaces that extend between the end members, the end members defining opposing end support surfaces, and the frame member defining a cavity that is accessible through the open center of each end member;
a cushion member attached at one end thereof to the frame and configured to wrap around the side support surfaces of the frame; and
at least one detachable accessory coupled to the frame, the detachable accessory selected from the group consisting of a cover member configured to cover the open center of one of the end members, a carrying strap, and a table top supported on one of the end support surfaces when the frame is supported on the other end support surface.
20. The article of claim 19 , wherein the carrying strap comprises a pair of shoulder straps, each shoulder strap having opposing ends that are coupled to an opposing end member, and the cover member includes a pair of cover members, each cover member being coupled to a separate end member.
21. An article of furniture, comprising:
a frame having a triangular cross-section, opposing first and second end support surfaces, and at least three side support surfaces that extend between the opposing end surfaces, the frame defining a cavity that is accessible through an opening defined in at least one of the end support surfaces and the at least three side support surfaces;
a cushion member attached at one end thereof to the frame and configured to wrap around the side support surfaces of the frame; and
a cover member coupled to the frame, the cover member being configured and arranged to removably cover an opening into the cavity.
22. The article of claim 21 , further comprising at least one carrying strap coupled to the frame, the carrying strap being configured for moving the article when the cushion member is wrapped around the frame.
23. The article of claim 21 , further comprising a table top defining a generally planar primary surface, wherein the table top is supported on an end support surface.
24. The article of claim 21 , further comprising a movable member positioned within the frame, the movable member defining a storage space, wherein the movable member is rotatable relative to the frame about an axis of rotation of the frame.
25. The article of claim 24 , wherein the movable member includes a cylindrical shape having at least one open end.
26. The article of claim 24 , further comprising a shelf member mounted within the movable member, wherein the shelf and movable member are configured to maintain a horizontal orientation when the frame rotates about an axis of rotation of the frame.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/156,779 US20060282949A1 (en) | 2005-06-20 | 2005-06-20 | Multi-purpose furniture article |
PCT/US2006/024181 WO2007002221A1 (en) | 2005-06-20 | 2006-06-20 | Multi-purpose furniture article |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US11/156,779 US20060282949A1 (en) | 2005-06-20 | 2005-06-20 | Multi-purpose furniture article |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20060282949A1 true US20060282949A1 (en) | 2006-12-21 |
Family
ID=37076219
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/156,779 Abandoned US20060282949A1 (en) | 2005-06-20 | 2005-06-20 | Multi-purpose furniture article |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20060282949A1 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2007002221A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO2017032913A1 (en) * | 2015-08-27 | 2017-03-02 | Iniciativa Exterior 3I, S.A. | Mountable seat |
US10321764B2 (en) * | 2016-05-03 | 2019-06-18 | Laurie Calowaert | Portable cushion system |
USD880193S1 (en) * | 2017-04-11 | 2020-04-07 | Debra Clark | Lounge chair cushion |
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AT7160U1 (en) * | 2003-07-02 | 2004-11-25 | Huber Andreas | VARIABLE SEATING / LOUNGE FURNITURE |
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2005
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US2290786A (en) * | 1941-02-15 | 1942-07-21 | Varady Armin | Folding bed rest for beaches, camps, etc. |
US4273221A (en) * | 1977-12-27 | 1981-06-16 | Poag Mary K | Combination valise and backrest |
US4410214A (en) * | 1978-09-26 | 1983-10-18 | Concept Engineering, Inc. | Leisure chair |
US4239281A (en) * | 1979-05-01 | 1980-12-16 | Lukas Beddy di Luca Sebastiano & C.S.a.s. | Chair or sofa convertible into a bed |
US4466517A (en) * | 1982-02-08 | 1984-08-21 | Spiegelman Kathleen Y | Top opening totebag body rest |
US5110180A (en) * | 1987-04-16 | 1992-05-05 | Schneider Rudolf T | Convertible chair-bed for indoor and outdoor use |
US4928337A (en) * | 1989-04-04 | 1990-05-29 | Chauncey Jeffrey B | Compactible futon |
US5425567A (en) * | 1991-06-26 | 1995-06-20 | Albecker, Iii; Walter J. | Backrests/legless leisure chairs and methods for making cushions |
US5836653A (en) * | 1991-06-26 | 1998-11-17 | Albecker; Walter J. | Backrests/legless leisure chairs made with a foundation |
US5794283A (en) * | 1997-12-08 | 1998-08-18 | Vila; Jose E. | Convertible furniture |
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WO2017032913A1 (en) * | 2015-08-27 | 2017-03-02 | Iniciativa Exterior 3I, S.A. | Mountable seat |
US10321764B2 (en) * | 2016-05-03 | 2019-06-18 | Laurie Calowaert | Portable cushion system |
USD880193S1 (en) * | 2017-04-11 | 2020-04-07 | Debra Clark | Lounge chair cushion |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
WO2007002221A9 (en) | 2007-03-08 |
WO2007002221A1 (en) | 2007-01-04 |
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Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
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STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |