US20200170415A1

US20200170415A1 - Collapsible bench seat and lighted foot

Info

Publication number: US20200170415A1
Application number: US16/209,815
Authority: US
Inventors: Dwayne Broussard; Laura Kamenitz
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2018-12-04
Filing date: 2018-12-04
Publication date: 2020-06-04

Abstract

The present disclosure provides for a novel collapsible bench seat including an upright cabinet enclosure configured to receive and conceal a bed frame and a mattress. The collapsible bench seat includes at least one actuating leg hingeably connected to the bed frame configured to pivot from a locked position to an unlocked position and configured to vertically support the bedframe when in a horizontal position. The collapsible bench seat includes an armrest comprising a spring biased backrest jam member and a receiving chamber. The collapsible bench seat further includes a leg member defining a receiving chamber configured to receive a spring biased bench seat jam member and a bench seat pivotally connected to the outer surface.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to a convertible piece of furniture and more particularly relates to a collapsible bench seat.

Description of the Related Art

Over the years, many multipurpose devices have been made to convert a piece of furniture into a bed. However, these devices are often bulky, unsightly, and do not fit into certain environments, particularly those environments that call for a certain aesthetic, such as an antique or classic piece of furniture. There is a need for an apparatus that will allow for maximizing the use of space without sacrificing the look and feel of a room.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,508,526 issued to Reppas et al. discloses a convertible bed with computer desk, the assembly having a bed frame pivotally coupled to a base assembly. A computer workstation is further coupled to the base assembly and adapted for supporting and stowing a computer monitor and related accessories even when the bed frame is in the lowered position. This convertible bed is bulky and includes large hinge mechanisms, encompassing a large footprint.
U.S. Pat. No. 7,921,487 issued to Stonier discloses a tilting furniture system and infinitely variable lift tensioning mechanism therefor. A tension mechanism for use with existing conventional bed platforms in the Murphy bed system in which the bed platform may be connected to the tension mechanism when the tension is at a low level by only a single installer, and the tension thereafter is increased in infinite increments to any desired level by a remotely operated tool. This device utilizes an infinitely variable lever actuated spring mechanism for raising and lowering a bed platform. The spring mechanism is generally mounted on a vertical side support member.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2017/019537 by Gerzeny, et al., discloses a Murphy bed assembly for a motorhome which is actuated hydraulically from a stored position in which the bed is vertically positioned within the space provided by an extension formed in the motorhome to a horizontal position extending into the interior of the motor home.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2008/0016617 by Plantefever, et al., discloses a furniture element forming convertible desk and bed. This furniture element comprises a frame to which is linked a desk by link means in the form of a deformable parallelogram and arranged to keep the desk horizontal during its movement between its positions of use and non-use, a bed that moves rotation-wise about a horizontal pin between a vertical position of non-use and a horizontal position of use, and transmission means arranged to move the bed from its position of use to its position of non-use while the desk is being moved from its position of non-use to its position of use, and vice versa. The swivel pin of the bed moves vertically translation-wise relative to the frame of the furniture element between a bottom position close to the floor when the bed is in the position of non-use and a top position away from the floor when the bed is in the position of use.
U.S. Pat. No. 3,858,263 issued to Lauzon discloses a piece of furniture adapted to be transformed in a bed comprising a frame having sides, an upper surface and a facing surface. The facing surface comprises a first lower panel fixed to the sides and a second upper panel connected to the lower panel by a hinge. A third panel is connected to the upper panel by means of a hinge and may be pivoted downwardly so as to be used as a table. The upper panel may also be pivoted downwardly around its hinge and be supported by the said first and third panels to constitute the base of a bed. Springs are foreseen to facilitate the lifting of the upper panel in its raised position.
U.S. Pat. No. 9,084,489 issued to Gosling, et al., discloses a modular wall includes a plurality of inter-connectable and interchangeable wall modules. At least one of the wall modules includes a recessed, extendable piece of furniture, such as a bed, desk, table, work surface or chair. When in a closed configuration, the furniture folds into or otherwise resides within a recessed pocket in the modular wall. When in the closed configuration, the outer surface of the furniture forms an exterior surface of the wall module; thereby, concealing the furniture seamlessly into the modular wall. The exterior surface can comprise one or more exterior interchangeable tiles. This modular wall does not include a collapsible bench seating component.
U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2016/0242556 by Ray discloses a convertible furniture piece, having a bed configuration, desk configuration, and couch configuration. The furniture includes an outer frame that houses a bed frame and desk, along with the mechanism for raising and lowering the bed frame and desk. The outer frame, bed frame, and desk are interconnected such that the bed frame and desk transition together between a bed configuration, where the desk sits directly below the bed frame, and desk configuration, where the bed frame is stored vertically, while keeping the desk level with the floor. The furniture may be converted to a couch by repositioning a foldable mattress topper as a backrest against the outer frame while the bed frame is horizontal. The furniture may further comprise a bed frame extension, allowing the foldable mattress topper to be repositioned as a second mattress alongside a first mattress. This device contemplates using a foldable mattress topper rather than a regular spring mattress. This device also does not disclose an upright vertical enclosure to receive and conceal a mattress. The couch configuration uses the mattress as a seat rather than a separate bench element.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,039,416 issued to Lambert discloses a space saver, pivotal work bench assembly comprising a fixed tool storage housing mounted on a wall, and a pivotal work bench having pivotal and lockable legs. Cooperative latching members are provided between the tool storage housing and pivotal work bench to temporarily secure the assembly to the wall. The pivotal legs do not unlock the work bench from the housing mounted on the wall
While these units may be suitable for the particular purpose employed, they would not be as suitable for the purposes of the present invention as disclosed hereafter. Accordingly, there is a need for a compact and aesthetically pleasing collapsible article of furniture.
As disclosed in this application, the inventor has discovered novel and unique devices and methods for collapsible furniture, which exhibit superlative properties without being dependent on heavy, immobile, expensive or complex components.
Embodiments of the present invention provide for devices and methods and disclosed herein and as defined in the annexed claims which provide for improved collapsible furniture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is one prospect of the present invention to provide one or more novel devices of simple but effective construction which can be applied to many environments to efficiently and effectively disguise a bed in an elegant manner.
The following presents a simplified summary of the present disclosure in a simplified form as a prelude to the more detailed description that is presented here.
Therefore, in accordance with embodiments of the invention, there is provided a collapsible bench seat having an upright cabinet enclosure configured to receive a bed frame and a mattress. The collapsible bench seat is preferably freestanding. The bed frame is pivotally connected to the upright cabinet enclosure. The bed frame moves between an upright stowed and seated position, to a horizontal sleeping position. In one embodiment, a mattress sits on top of the bed frame when the bench seat is in the sleeping position. In a preferred embodiment, a mattress is fitted within the bed frame of the collapsible bench seat. In a preferred embodiment, the cabinet enclosure fully conceals the bed when the bed frame is in the upright stowed position. As disclosed herein, the collapsible bench seat is adapted to be transformed into a bed.
In a preferred embodiment, the bed frame is pivotally connected to the upright cabinet enclosure.
As further disclosed here, in accordance with embodiments of the invention, at least one actuating leg connected by a hinge to the bed frame is configured to pivot from a locked position to an unlocked position. The leg actuates a first locking mechanism. While in the locked position, the first locking mechanism locks the bed frame to the upright cabinet enclosure when the bed frame is in a vertical position, the seated position. The leg serves as support for the bed frame when the bed frame is in a horizontal position, the sleeping position.
In one embodiment, at least one armrest transitions into a leg member, preferably elongated to give it an antique look. The armrest has a spring biased backrest jam member. The leg member has a receiving chamber configured to receive the spring biased bench seat jam member.
In another embodiment, a backrest is pivotally connected to an outer surface of the bed frame relative to the upright cabinet enclosure. The backrest is designed to pivot from a seated position, the seated configuration, to a collapsed, stowed position, the sleeping configuration. The backrest has at least one receiving groove designed to receive the spring biased backrest jam member.
In a preferred embodiment, a bench seat is pivotally connected to the outer surface of the bed frame, relative to the upright cabinet enclosure. The bench seat is designed to pivot from a seated position, the seated configuration, to a collapsed, stowed position, the sleeping configuration. The bench seat has a spring biased bench seat jam member that is designed to extend into the receiving chamber of the leg member.
In yet another embodiment, at least one cord is operatively connected to the seat back and the spring biased bench seat jam member. When the seat back pivots from the seated position towards the collapsed, stowed position, the seat back imposes tension on the cord and the connected spring biased bench seat jam member, enough to overcome the spring bias and to release the bench seat jam member from the receiving chamber of the leg member.
In a preferred embodiment, a pivotal bench seat bed has a bed frame configured to pivotally connect to an upright cabinet enclosure.
In another embodiment, a bed is fitted within the bed frame.
In yet another embodiment, an upright cabinet enclosure is configured to receive and conceal the bed frame and a mattress that is positioned to sit atop the bed frame when in the operating position. The bed frame is pivotally connected to the upright cabinet enclosure. The bed frame is movable between an upright stowed position, the seated configuration, to a horizontal sleeping position, the sleeping configuration.
In one embodiment, at least one actuating leg is hingeably connected to the bed frame. The actuating leg is configured to pivot from a locked position to an unlocked position. The leg actuates a first locking mechanism and while in the locked position, the actuating leg locks the bed frame to the upright cabinet enclosure with the first locking mechanism when the bed frame is in a vertical position, the seated configuration. The first leg serves as support for the bed frame when the bed frame is in a horizontal position, the sleeping configuration.
In a preferred embodiment, at least one armrest transitions to a leg member. The armrest has a spring biased backrest jam member. The leg member defines a receiving chamber that is configured to receive a spring biased bench seat jam member.
In another embodiment, a backrest pivotally connects to an outer surface of the bed frame, relative to the upright cabinet enclosure. The backrest is configured to pivot from a seated position to a collapsed, stowed position, the sleeping configuration. The backrest has at least one receiving groove configured to receive a spring biased backrest jam member.
In yet another embodiment, a bench seat pivotally connects to the outer surface of the bed frame, relative to the upright cabinet enclosure. The bench seat is configured to pivot from a seated position to a collapsed, stowed position, the sleeping configuration. The bench seat has a spring biased bench seat jam member, configured to extend into the receiving chamber of the leg member.
In a preferred embodiment, at least one cord operatively connects to the seat back and the spring biased bench seat jam member. Pivoting of the seatback from the seated position towards the collapsed, stowed position, the sleeping configuration, imposes tension upon the cord and the connected spring biased bench seat jam member. The tension is sufficient enough to overcome the spring bias to allow the release of the bench seat jam member from the receiving chamber of the leg member.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is provided a collapsible bed having an upright cabinet enclosure configured to receive a bed frame and a mattress. The bed frame is pivotally connected to the upright cabinet enclosure and the bed frame is movable between an upright stowed position to a horizontal sleeping position. The bedframe has an outer surface relative to the cabinet enclosure. One or more lights are fixed to the outer surface of the bed frame. The one or more lights illuminate an upright wall area surrounding the collapsible bed when the bed frame is in the upright stowed position and illuminate a floor area below the bed when the bed frame is in the horizontal sleeping position. The one or more lights are preferably light emitting diodes (LEDs).
In one embodiment, the collapsible bed has a control box electrically connected to the one or more lights and the control box is configured to turn the one or more lights off and on.
In a further embodiment, the control box includes a dimmer configured to adjust the brightness of the one or more lights.
In another embodiment, the collapsible bed has a light switch support leg pivotally connected to the bed frame that vertically supports the bed frame when in the horizontal sleeping position.
In yet another embodiment, the collapsible bed includes a motion sensor electrically connected to the one or more lights and is configured to turn on the one or more lights in response to motion of nearby users.
In one embodiment, the bed frame has a light switch support leg pivotally connected to the outer surface of the bed frame. Movement of the light switch support leg from a closed position to an open position activates the motion sensor. The light switch support leg vertically supports the bed frame when in the horizontal sleeping position.
In yet another embodiment, the one or more lights comprise a wall sconce cover fixed to the outer surface of the bed frame.
In still another embodiment, the collapsible bed includes a light switch support leg pivotally connected to the bed frame. The light switch support leg vertically supports the bed frame when in the horizontal sleeping position. The one or more lights are fixed to the light switch support leg.
In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is provided a lighting system for use with a Murphy bed having one or more lights configured to be fixed to a surface of a bed frame of a Murphy bed. The one or more lights illuminate an upright wall area surrounding the Murphy bed when the bed frame is in an upright stowed position and illuminate a floor area below the bed when the bed frame is in a horizontal sleeping position. A control box is electrically connected to the one or more lights and is configured to turn the one or more lights off and on. A motion sensor is configured to turn the one or more lights off and on in response to motion.
In one embodiment, the motion sensor is oriented toward a ceiling of a room when the bed frame is in an upright stowed position and is oriented toward the floor of a room when the bed frame is in the horizontal sleeping position for illuminating the floor area upon motion of nearby users.
In a further embodiment, the motion sensor is activated when the bed frame is moved from the upright stowed position to the horizontal sleeping position for illuminating the floor area upon motion of nearby users.
In yet another embodiment, the lighting system further has a dimmer configured to adjust the brightness of the one or more lights.
In one embodiment, the one or more lights include a wall sconce cover fixed to an outer surface of the bed frame.
These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals throughout the figures identify substantially similar components, in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment in a seated position of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a side view of a preferred embodiment in a seated position of the invention thereof;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the invention being moved from a seated position to a sleeping position;

FIG. 4 is a side view of a preferred embodiment of the present invention in a collapsed sleeping position;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of embodiments of the invention showing a bed leg in an unlocked position;

FIG. 6 is a top view of a locking mechanism according to embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the collapsible bench seat, illustrating the movement from the seated position to the sleeping position, according to embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the collapsible bench seat, illustrating the movement of the backrest from the spring bias backrest member, moving from the seated position to the sleeping position, according to embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of embodiments of the invention illustrating the receiving chamber of the leg member configured to receive the spring biased bench seat jam member;

FIG. 10 is a front side perspective view of embodiments of the invention illustrating the spring biased bench seat jam member configured to extend into the receiving chamber of the leg member;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of embodiments of the invention illustrating the spring biased bench seat jam member;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of embodiments of the invention illustrating the backrest pivotally connected to an elongated spacing member;

FIG. 12 is a bottom left perspective view of an exemplary cord and spring configuration of a portion of the collapsible bench seat in accordance with embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a side view of embodiments of the invention illustrating the bench seat stability bracket;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of embodiments of the invention illustrating a stability channel as configured to receive a bench seat stability bracket; and

FIG. 15 is a back left perspective view in accordance with embodiments of the invention illustrating an exemplary backrest pivotally connected to an elongated spacing member.

FIG. 16 are side perspective views of embodiments of the invention, illustrating an exemplary bedframe in an upright position and in a horizontal position;

FIG. 17 is a front right perspective view of embodiments of the invention; and

FIG. 18 is a front right perspective view of embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

For a further understanding of the nature and function of the embodiments, reference should be made to the following detailed description. Detailed descriptions of the embodiments are provided herein, as well as, the best mode of carrying out and employing the present invention. It will be readily appreciated that the embodiments are well adapted to carry out and obtain the ends and features mentioned as well as those inherent herein. It is to be understood, however, that the present invention may be embodied in various forms. Therefore, persons of ordinary skill in the art will realize that the following disclosure is illustrative only and not in any way limiting, as the specific details disclosed herein provide a basis for the claims and a representative basis for teaching to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner. It should be understood that the devices, materials, methods, procedures, and techniques described herein are presently representative of various embodiments. Other embodiments of the disclosure will readily suggest themselves to such skilled persons having the benefit of this disclosure.
As used herein, “axis” means a real or imaginary straight line about which a three-dimensional body is symmetrical. A “vertical axis” means an axis perpendicular to the ground (or put another way, an axis extending upwardly and downwardly). A “horizontal axis” means an axis parallel to the ground.
As used herein, homogeneous is defined as the same in all locations, and a homogeneous material is a material of uniform composition throughout that cannot be mechanically separated into different materials. Examples of “homogeneous materials” are certain types of plastics, ceramics, glass, metals, alloys, paper, board, resins, high-density polyethylene and rubber.
Referring initially to FIG. 1, a preferred embodiment of the invention preferably includes a collapsible bench seat 100 including an upright cabinet enclosure 102 configured to receive and conceal a bed frame 104 and a mattress 106 positioned to sit atop the bed frame 104. Bed frame 104 is preferably pivotally connected to the upright cabinet enclosure 102 by a pivot connection 108. The bed frame 104 is movable between an upright stowed position and seating configuration A as shown in FIG. 1 to a horizontal sleeping position and configuration B as shown in FIG. 4.
One embodiment of the invention includes at least one actuating leg 110 hingeably 112 connected to the bed frame 104 by hinge 112 configured to pivot in the direction of arrow F as shown in FIG. 3 from a closed locked position C, as shown in in FIGS. 1-2, to an open unlocked position D, as shown in FIGS. 4-5. The leg 110 preferably actuates a first locking mechanism 114 embedded within the frame 104. When in the locked position C, the first locking mechanism 114 of the actuating leg 110 locks the bed frame 104 to the upright cabinet enclosure 102, where the first locking mechanism 114 (FIG. 3 and FIG. 6) extends into the retention chamber 113 (FIG. 3) of the upright cabinet enclosure 102 when the bed frame 104 is in an upright stowed vertical position A as shown in FIG. 1, i.e., a seating configuration. Referring to FIGS. 3-5, when the leg 110 is in the unlocked position D, the actuating leg 110 serves as vertical support for the bed frame 104 when the bed frame 104 is in the horizontal sleeping position B as shown in FIG. 4, i.e., a sleeping position. In preferred embodiments, there are a plurality of legs 110 that include additional locking mechanisms, for example.
Referring to FIGS. 7-8, preferably, at least one armrest 116 transitions into a leg member 118. The armrest 116 preferably includes a spring biased backrest jam member 120 as shown in FIG. 8. Preferably, the backrest 124 defines a receiving groove 130 configured to receive the spring biased backrest jam member 120 extending outwardly from the armrest 116, as shown in FIG. 8, for locking the backrest 124 to the armrest 116 in the upright seated configuration A.
Referring to FIGS. 9-10, in a preferred embodiment, the leg member 118 defines a receiving chamber 122, as shown in FIG. 9, configured to receive a spring biased bench seat jam member 136, as shown in FIG. 10. Certain embodiments include an armrest 116 elongating into leg member 118 to give the collapsible bench seat 100. Armrest 116 can be fabricated with varying styles such as giving the collapsible bench seat 100 an antique look, for example. The surface of spring biased bench seat jam member 136 is preferably angled to allow the jam member to slide into the bench seat 132 and then spring into the receiving chamber 122 when aligned.
Preferably, a backrest 124 is pivotally connected to an outer surface 128 of the bed frame 104 by pivot connection 126. In an exemplary embodiment, outer surface 128 is an exterior surface of the bed frame 128 with respect to the upright cabinet enclosure 102. Backrest 124 is preferably configured to pivot from the seating configuration A to a collapsed stowed position while the collapsible bench seat is in the sleeping configuration B. As illustrated in FIG. 7, pivoting the backrest 124 in the direction of arrow G, the backrest 124 is preferably opposed by a spring 125. In one embodiment, a second spring 127 preferably opposes the backrest 124.
The backrest 124 preferably defines at least one receiving groove 130 configured to receive a spring biased backrest jam member 120 extending from the armrest 116 for locking the backrest 124 to the armrest 116 in the upright seated configuration A. In embodiments of the collapsible bench seat 100 that do not include an armrest 116, the cabinet enclosure 102 comprises a backrest jam member 120 extending outwardly from the cabinet enclosure 102, and a portion of the backrest 124 preferably defines at least one receiving groove 130 configured to receive the backrest jam member 120 extending from the cabinet enclosure 102. Or other embodiments, a portion of the upright cabinet enclosure 102 preferably defines at least one receiving groove 130 configured to receive a spring biased backrest jam member 120 extending from the backrest 124, for locking the backrest 124 to the armrest 116 in the upright seated configuration A.
One embodiment preferably includes a bench seat 132 pivotally connected to the outer surface 128 of the bed frame 104, wherein the outer surface 128 is an exterior surface relative to the upright cabinet enclosure 102, and the bench seat 132 is connected by pivot connection 134 to the upright cabinet enclosure 102. As illustrated in FIGS. 1-4, 9, and FIG. 16, the bench seat 132 is preferably configured to pivot from a seated position A, i.e., seating configuration, to a collapsed stowed position B, i.e., sleeping configuration. Preferably, said bench seat 132 includes a spring biased bench seat jam member 136 configured to extend into the receiving chamber of the leg member 122.
Referring to FIG. 11, in some embodiments, at least one cord 138 is operatively connected to the seatback 124 via a connector 140 and operatively connected to the spring biased bench seat jam member 136 via connector 142. When the seatback 124 is pivoted from the seated position A towards the collapsed sleeping configuration B, a tension E is imposed upon said cord 138. The tension E imposed upon cord 138 and imposed upon connected spring biased bench seat jam member 136 is sufficient to overcome the spring bias of the spring biased bench seat jam member 136 and thus releases the spring biased bench seat jam member 136 from the receiving chamber 122 of the leg member 118.
In one embodiment, the collapsible bench seat 100 includes at least a second actuating leg 144 hingeably connected to the bed frame 104 by hinge 146 configured to pivot from a locked position C to an unlocked position D.
Leg 144 preferably actuates a second locking mechanism 148. When in the locked position C, the leg 144 locks the bed frame 104 to the upright cabinet enclosure 102 with the second locking mechanism 148 when the bed frame 104 is in a vertical position A, i.e., seating configuration. When the leg 144 is in the unlocked position D, the actuating leg 110 serves as support for the bed frame 104 when the bed frame 104 is in a horizontal position B, i.e., sleeping position.
In one embodiment, the upright cabinet enclosure 102 defines at least one retention chamber 113 sized and configured to receive the first locking mechanism 114. In another embodiment, the upright cabinet enclosure 102 defines at least a second retention chamber 152 sized and configured to receive the second locking mechanism 148.
In one embodiment, the collapsible bench seat 100 includes an elongated damping arm 154 having a first end 156 and a second end 158. Preferably, the first end 156 is connected to the upright cabinet enclosure 102 and the second end 158 is attached to the bed frame 104. Damping arm 154 is preferably configured counteract the force of movement of the bed frame 104 between the upright stowed position A and the horizontal sleeping position B.
Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, in one embodiment, armrest 116 defines a stability channel 160 configured to receive a bench seat stability bracket 162 to align the bench seat 132 with the at least one armrest 116 when the bench seat 132 is in the seated position A.
In one embodiment, the collapsible bench seat 100 preferably includes a first eyebolt 164 fixed to the bed frame 104 and a second eyebolt 166 fixed to the backrest 124, as shown in FIG. 11. Preferably, the cord 138 is strung through the first eyebolt 164 and through the second eyebolt 166, such that pivoting of the seatback 124 from the seated position A towards the collapsed stowed position B creates an increasing distance between the first eyebolt 164 and second eyebolt 166 imparting tension E upon the cord 138. The tension E imposed upon cord 138 and imposed upon connected spring biased bench seat jam member 136 is sufficient to overcome the spring bias of the spring biased bench seat jam member 136 and thus releases the spring biased bench seat jam member 136 from the receiving chamber 122 of the leg member 118.
In one embodiment, the collapsible bench seat 100 includes at least a second armrest 168 transitioning to a second leg member 170. In certain embodiments, armrests 116 and 168 are configured with elongated transitions into leg members 118 and 170, respectively, to give the collapsible bench seat 100 an antique look, for example. Other embodiments have arm and leg configurations adaptable to fit into a variety of settings, such as mid-century modern, leather, executive, and the like. Preferably, the second leg member 170 defines a second receiving chamber 172 configured to receive a second spring biased bench seat jam member 174. A second spring biased bench seat jam member 174 is contained within the bench seat 132 configured to extend into the receiving chamber 172 of the second leg member 170.
Referring to FIG. 12, in one embodiment, the collapsible bench seat 100, includes a second cord 176 having a first end 178 and a second end 180. Preferably, the cord first end 178 is connected to the at least one spring biased jam member 136 of the bench seat 132, and the second end 180 is preferably connected to the at least the second spring biased jam member 174 of the bench seat 132. The bench seat 100 includes at least one spring member 182 having a spring member first end 184 and a spring member second end 186, wherein the spring member first end 184 is connected to the end of the at least one cord 138, and the second end 186 is connected to the middle section of the at least one second cord 176. In operation, pivoting of the seatback 124 in the direction of arrow G from the seated position A towards the collapsed stowed position/sleeping configuration B imposes tension E upon the at least one cord 138, the spring member 182, the second cord 176, and the connected spring biased bench seat jam members 136 and 174. By pivoting the seatback 124, tension E is sufficient to overcome the spring bias of the bench seat jam members 136 and 174 to release the bench seat jam members 136 and 174 from the receiving chambers 122 and 172 of the leg members 118 and 170.
In a preferred embodiment, the collapsible bench seat 100 includes a second spring member 188 having a second spring member first end 190 and a second spring member second end 192. Preferably, the second spring member first end 190 is connected to the at least one cord 138 and the second spring member second end 192 is connected to the middle of the at least one second cord 176. In operation, pivoting of the seatback 124 in the direction of arrow G from the seated position A towards the collapsed stowed position/sleeping configuration B imposes tension E upon the at least one cord 138, the spring members 182 and 188, the second cord 176, and the connected spring biased bench seat jam members 136 and 174. By pivoting the seatback 124, tension E is sufficient to overcome the spring bias of the bench seat jam members 136 and 174 to release the bench seat jam members 136 and 174 from the receiving chambers 122 and 172 of the leg members 118 and 170.
In one exemplary embodiment, the first locking mechanism 114 is a locking pin. The upright cabinet enclosure 102 preferably defines an aperture 113 configured to receive the locking pin 114 when the leg member 110 is in the locked position C such that when the bed frame 104 is in the upright position A fitted within the upright cabinet enclosure 102.
Some embodiments are configured such that bed frame 104 is a cabinet configured to receive and closely secure the mattress 106. Some embodiments are configured such that each armrest 116 is attached to the upright cabinet enclosure 102 and a floor. In some embodiments, the backrest 124 is pivotally connected to an elongated spacing member 194 disposed along a surface of the bed frame 104, as shown in FIG. 15.
In one embodiment of the invention, a pivotal bench seat bed 100 includes a bed frame 104 configured to receive a mattress 106. The bed frame 104 is preferably pivotally connected to a cabinet enclosure 102 via pivot connection 108. The pivotal bench seat bed 100 is preferably configured to be fixed to a wall 196 of a room. The bed frame 104 is preferably pivotable between an upright stowed position and seating configuration A to a horizontal sleeping position configuration B. In one embodiment, the upright cabinet enclosure 102 defines one or more retention chambers 113 sized and configured to receive one or more respective retention member 114.
Preferably, at least one bed leg 110 hingeably connects to the bed frame 104 by hinge 112. The bed leg 110 is operably connected to a retention member 114, preferably concealed within the bed frame 104, wherein pivoting the at least one bed leg 110 from a locked position C to an unlocked position D withdraws a portion of the retention member 114 from the retention chamber 113 to release the bed frame 104 from the cabinet enclosure 102.
Preferably, at least one armrest transitioning to a bench leg member 115, preferably elongated for an antique look, includes a spring biased backrest jam member 120. The bench leg member 118 defines a receiving chamber 122 configured to receive at least a portion of a spring biased bench seat jam member 136.
A backrest 124 is preferably pivotally connected to an outer surface 128 of the bed frame 104 relative to the cabinet enclosure 102. Backrest 124 is preferably configured to pivot from a seated position A to a collapsed stowed position and sleeping configuration B. Backrest 124 preferably defines at least one receiving groove 130 configured to receive at least a portion of a spring biased backrest jam member 120.
The bench seat 132 is preferably pivotally connected to the outer surface 128 of the bed frame 104, wherein the bench seat 132 is configured to pivot via pivot connection 134 from a seated position A to a collapsed stowed position and sleeping configuration B. In one embodiment, the bench seat 132 includes a spring biased bench seat jam member 136 configured to extend into the receiving chamber 122 of the bench leg member 118. Preferably, at least one cord 138 is operably connected to the seat back 124 and the spring biased bench seat jam member 136. In operation, pivoting of the seat back 124 from the seated position A towards the collapsed stowed position and sleeping configuration B imposes tension E upon the cord 138 and connected spring biased bench seat jam member 136 sufficient to overcome said spring bias to release said bench seat jam member 136 from said receiving chamber 122 of the bench leg member 118.
In one embodiment, collapsible bench seat 100 includes a bed frame 104 configured to receive a mattress 106. Bed frame 104 is pivotally connected to a cabinet enclosure 102 configured to be fixed to a wall 196 of a room. Bed frame 104 is pivotable via pivot connection 108 between an upright stowed position and seating configuration A to a horizontal sleeping position configuration B. Cabinet enclosure 102 preferably defines one or more retention chambers 113 sized and configured to receive at least a portion of a respective retention member 114. In one embodiment, a retention member enclosure 198 is defined by the bed frame 104. Preferably, the retention member enclosure 198 conceals the retention member operably disposed therein.
Collapsible bench seat 100 includes at least one bed leg 110 hingeably connected to the bed frame 104. The least one bed leg 110 is operably connected to the retention member 114 concealed within the bed frame 104. In operation, pivoting the at least one bed leg 110 from a locked position C to an unlocked position D withdraws at least a portion of the retention member 114 from the retention chamber 113 to release the bed frame 104 from the cabinet enclosure 102.
Preferably, at least one armrest 116 transitions to a bench leg member 118. In one embodiment, armrest 116 has an elongated transition to give an antique look. The at least one armrest 116 includes a spring biased backrest jam member 120. Preferably, the bench leg 118 member defines a receiving chamber 122 configured to receive at least a portion of a spring biased bench seat jam member 120.
In one embodiment, a backrest 124 is pivotally connected to an outer surface 128 of the bed frame 104 relative to the cabinet enclosure 102. Backrest 124 is preferably configured to pivot from a seated position seating A to a collapsed stowed position and sleeping configuration B. Backrest 124 defines at least one receiving groove 130 configured to receive at least a portion of a spring biased backrest jam member 120. Bench seat 132 is preferably collapsibly connected to the outer surface 128 of the bed frame 104. Bench seat 132 is preferably configured to collapse from a seated position A to a stowed position B. Bench seat 132 includes a spring biased bench seat jam member 136 configured to extend into the receiving chamber 122 of the at least one bench leg member 118.
In one embodiment, collapsible bench seat 100 includes at least one cord 138 connecting the seat back 124 to the spring biased bench seat jam member 136. In operation, pivoting of the seat back 124 from the seated position A towards the collapsed stowed position and sleeping configuration B imposes tension E upon the cord 138 and connected spring biased bench seat jam member 136 sufficient to overcome the spring bias to release said bench seat jam member 136 from said receiving chamber 122 of the bench leg member 118. In some embodiments, the bench seat jam member 136 has an angled surface. Preferably, the jam members 120 and 136 are concealed when the bench seat is in the sitting position A. The bench seat jam members 136 and 174 are preferably load bearing, providing support to the bench seat 132 when a user is sitting on it.
The collapsible bench seat 100 provides significant advantages over the prior art with respect to aesthetics. The retention member 114 is preferably disposed within the bed frame 104 in retention member enclosure 198, providing a discreet and concealed locking mechanism. When the collapsible bench seat 100 is in the seated position A, the spring biased backrest jam member 120, the spring biased bench seat jam member 136, and the spring biased bench seat jam member 174 are concealed from view. The jam members 120, 136, and 174 are preferably fully inserted into their respective receiving chambers 130, 122, and 172. In a preferred embodiment, the locking mechanisms are fully concealed within the arms 116 and 169, backrest 124, legs 118 and 170, and bench 132 of the collapsible bench seat 100, as shown in FIG. 1. By concealing the locking mechanisms when in the seated position, the collapsible bench seat is more aesthetically pleasing than the bulky, unattractive devices disclosed in the prior art.
In an exemplary operation, to move the collapsible bench seat 100 from the upright seated position A to the collapsed seating position B, a user first unlocks the legs 110 and 144 by pivoting the legs from the locked position C to the unlocked position D in the direction of the arrow F such that locking members 114 and 148 will be pulled from retention chambers 113 and 152, unlocking the bed frame 104 from the upright enclosure 102. The user will then release the backrest 124 from the arm 116 by pulling on the top of the backrest 124, which will release the spring biased backrest jam member 120 from the receiving groove 130. This will also impart tension E in cord 138, releasing the spring biased bench seat jam members 136 and 174 from corresponding receiving chambers 122 and 172. The user will then apply force to the bench seat 132 by placing a knee on the bench seat 132 and pressing down, for example, causing the bed frame 104, backrest 124, and bench seat 132 to rotate down relative to the upright enclosure 102. The bed frame will come to rest as legs 110 and 144 touch the floor and provide support for the bed frame 104.
To move from the collapsed seating position B to the upright seated position A, the user will lift bed frame 104 up to rotate the bed frame up towards the upright enclosure 102. As the rotation continues, spring biased bench seat jam members 136 and 174 will snap into their corresponding receiving chambers 122 and 172, locking the bench seat 132 in place. As the rotation still continues, the spring biased backrest jam member 120 will snap into the receiving groove 130, locking it into place. To lock the bedframe 104 to the upright enclosure, the user will rotate the legs 110 and 144 from position D to position C in the direction of arrow F such that locking members 114 and 148 will enter retention chambers 113 and 152, locking the bed frame 104 to the upright enclosure 102.
Referring to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 16, the bed frame 104 is pivoted in the direction of arrow H from the upright position A to the horizontal position B. Bed frame 104 is connected the upright cabinet enclosure 102 via pivot 108. The bench seat 132 is preferably connected to bench seat railing 135. Bench seat railing 135 is preferably “L-shaped” and connected to a pivot bracket 137 via pivot connection 134. Through embodiments of the invention, the configuration of the bench seat railing 135 and pivot 134 illustrated in FIG. 16 allows the bench seat 132 to pivot on an independent axis relative to pivot 108, permitting the bench seat 132 to fold under the bed frame 104. Bench seat railing 135 and pivot bracket 137 are preferably constructed of iron, for example, or another material configured to support the weight of bed frame 104.
Referring to FIGS. 17-18, there is provided a Murphy type of bed 218, which is a foldable type of bed, having an upright cabinet enclosure 102 configured to receive a bed frame 104 and a mattress 106. The bed frame 104 is pivotally connected to the upright cabinet enclosure 102 and the bed frame 104 is movable between an upright stowed position A, as shown in FIG. 17, to a horizontal sleeping position B, as shown in FIG. 18. The bedframe 104 has an outer surface 128 relative to the cabinet enclosure 102. In accordance with preferred embodiments of the invention, one or more lights 200 are fixed to the outer surface 128 of the bed frame 104. Preferably, the one or more lights 200 illuminate an upright wall area 202 surrounding the foldable bed 218 when the bed frame 104 is in the upright stowed position A, as shown in FIG. 17, and illuminate a floor area 204 below the bed 218 when the bed frame 104 is in the horizontal sleeping position B, as shown in FIG. 18.
In one embodiment, the foldable bed 218 has a control box 206 electrically connected to the one or more lights 200 via wiring 207, and the control box 206 is configured to turn the one or more lights 200 off and on.
In a further embodiment, the control box 206 includes a dimmer 208 configured to adjust the brightness of the one or more lights 200.
In another embodiment, the foldable bed 218 has a light switch support leg 210 pivotally connected to the bed frame 104 that vertically supports the bed frame 104 when the frame 104 is in the horizontal sleeping position B, as illustrated in FIG. 18. In one embodiment, the one or more lights 200 are on an outer surface 222 of the light switch support leg 210. In another embodiment, the one or more lights 200 are on a back surface 224 of the light switch support leg 210.
In yet another embodiment, the foldable bed 218 includes a motion sensor 212 electrically connected to the one or more lights 200, and the motion sensor 212 is configured to turn on the one or more lights 200 in response to motion of nearby users. In one embodiment, the motion sensor 212 is on an outer surface 222 of the light switch support leg 210. In another embodiment, the motion sensor 212 is on a back surface 224 of the light switch support leg 210.
In one embodiment, the bed frame 104 has a light switch support leg 210 pivotally connected to the outer surface 128 of the bed frame 102. Movement of the light switch support leg 210 from a closed position I (shown in FIG. 17) to an open position J (shown in FIG. 18) activates the motion sensor 212. In other words, preferably, movement of the light switch support leg 210 from a closed position I to an open supportive position J turns on the motion sensor 212. The light switch support leg 212 vertically supports the bed frame 102 when in the horizontal sleeping position B, as shown in FIG. 18.
In one embodiment, referring to FIG. 17, the one or more lights 200 preferably comprise a wall sconce cover 214 fixed to the light switch support leg 210. In yet another embodiment, the one or more lights 200 comprise a wall sconce cover 214 fixed to the outer surface 128 of the bed frame 104. The sconce can be fabricated as a traditional torch, candle or gas light, or a modern electric light source affixed in the same way.
In still another embodiment, the foldable bed 218 includes a light switch support leg 210 pivotally connected to the bed frame 104. The light switch support leg 210 vertically supports the bed frame 104 when in the horizontal sleeping position B. The one or more lights 200 are preferably fixed to the light switch support leg 210.
Referring to FIG. 18, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is provided a lighting system 216 for use with a Murphy type of bed 218, which is a foldable type of bed, having one or more lights 200 configured to be fixed to a surface 128 of a bed frame 104 of a Murphy bed 218. Referring to FIG. 17, the one or more lights 200 illuminate an upright wall area 202 surrounding the Murphy bed 218 when the bed frame 104 is in an upright stowed position A. Referring to FIG. 18, the one or more lights 200 and illuminate a floor area 204 below the bed 218 when the bed frame 104 is in a horizontal sleeping position B. Preferably, a control box 206 is electrically connected to the one or more lights 200 and is configured to turn the one or more lights 200 off and on. A motion sensor 212 preferably is configured to turn the one or more lights 200 off and on in response to motion.
In one embodiment, the motion sensor 212 is oriented toward a ceiling 220 of a room when the bed frame 104 is in an upright stowed position A and is oriented toward the floor 204 of a room when the bed frame 104 is in the horizontal sleeping position B for illuminating the floor area 204 upon motion of nearby users.
In a further embodiment, the motion sensor 212 is activated when the bed frame 104 is moved from the upright stowed position A to the horizontal sleeping position B for illuminating the floor area 204 upon motion of nearby users.
In yet another embodiment, the lighting system 216 preferably actuates a dimmer 208 configured to adjust the brightness of the one or more lights 200.
In one embodiment, the one or more lights 200 include a wall sconce cover 214 fixed to an outer surface 128 of the bed frame 104.
All U.S. patents and publications identified herein are incorporated in their entirety by reference thereto.

Claims

The claimed invention is:

1. A collapsible bench seat, comprising:

an upright cabinet enclosure configured to receive a bed frame and a mattress, wherein the bed frame is pivotally connected to the upright cabinet enclosure, said bed frame movable between an upright stowed position to a horizontal sleeping position;

a bed frame pivotally connected to the upright cabinet enclosure;

at least one actuating leg hingeably connected to the bed frame configured to pivot from a locked position to an unlocked position, said leg actuating a first locking mechanism, wherein in the locked position the at least one actuating leg locks the bed frame to the upright cabinet enclosure with the first locking mechanism when the bed frame is in a vertical position, and wherein in the unlocked position the at least one actuating leg vertically supports the bed frame when the bed frame is in a horizontal position;

at least one armrest transitioning to a leg member, wherein the armrest comprises a spring biased backrest jam member, wherein the leg member defines a receiving chamber configured to receive a spring biased bench seat jam member;

a backrest pivotally connected to an outer surface of the bed frame, relative to the upright cabinet enclosure, wherein the backrest is configured to pivot from a seated position to a collapsed stowed position, said backrest having a defining at least one receiving groove configured to receive a spring biased backrest jam member;

a bench seat pivotally connected to the outer surface of the bed frame, relative to the upright cabinet enclosure, wherein the bench seat is configured to pivot from a seated position to a collapsed stowed position, said bench seat comprising a spring biased bench seat jam member configured to extend into the receiving chamber of the leg member; and

at least one cord operatively connected to the seat back and the spring biased bench seat jam member, wherein pivoting of the seatback from the seated position towards the collapsed stowed position imposes tension upon said cord and connected spring biased bench seat jam member sufficient to overcome said spring bias to release said bench seat jam member from said receiving chamber of the leg member.

2. The collapsible bench seat of claim 1, further comprising at least a second actuating leg hingeably connected to the bed frame configured to pivot from a locked position to an unlocked position, said second leg actuating a second locking mechanism, wherein in the locked position the at least second actuating leg locks the bed frame to the upright cabinet enclosure with the second locking mechanism when the bed frame is in a vertical position, and wherein in the unlocked position the at least second actuating leg vertically supports the bed frame when the bed frame is in a horizontal position.

3. The collapsible bench seat of claim 1, wherein the upright cabinet enclosure defines at least one retention chamber sized and configured to receive the first locking mechanism.

4. The collapsible bench seat of claim 2, wherein the upright cabinet enclosure defines at least a second retention chamber sized and configured to receive the second locking mechanism.

5. The collapsible bench seat of claim 1, further comprising an elongated damping arm having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the upright cabinet enclosure and the second end is attached to the bed frame, wherein the damping arm is configured counteract the force of movement of the bed frame between the upright stowed position and the horizontal sleeping position.

6. The collapsible bench seat of claim 1, wherein the at least one armrest defines a stability channel configured to receive a bench seat stability bracket to align the bench seat with the at least one armrest when the bench seat is in the seated position.

7. The collapsible bench seat of claim 6, said bench seat further comprising a bench seat stability bracket.

8. The collapsible bench seat of claim 1, further comprising a first eyebolt fixed to the bed frame and a second eyebolt fixed to the backrest, wherein the at least one cord is strung through the first eyebolt and through the second eyebolt, such that pivoting of the seatback from the seated position towards the collapsed stowed position creates separation between said first eyebolt and second eyebolt imparting tension upon said cord such that force applied to the spring biased bench seat jam member is sufficient to overcome said spring bias to release said bench seat jam member from said receiving chamber of the leg member.

9. The collapsible bench seat of claim 1, further comprising at least a second armrest transitioning to a second leg member, wherein the second leg member defines a receiving chamber configured to receive a spring biased bench seat jam member, wherein the bench seat further comprises a second spring biased bench seat jam member configured to extend into the receiving chamber of the second leg member.

10. The collapsible bench seat of claim 9, further comprising at least a second cord having a first end and a second end, wherein the first end is connected to the at least one spring biased jam member of the bench seat, and the second end is connected to the at least second spring biased jam member of the bench seat, further comprising at least one spring member having a first end and a second end, wherein the spring member first end is connected to the at least one cord, and the second end is connected to the at least second cord, wherein pivoting of the seatback from the seated position towards the collapsed stowed position imposes tension upon the at least one cord, the spring member, the second cord, and the connected spring biased bench seat jam members, wherein the tension is sufficient to overcome said spring bias to release said bench seat jam members from said receiving chambers of the leg members.

11. The collapsible bench seat of claim 8, further comprising a second spring member having a first end and a second end, wherein the second spring member first end is connected to the at least one cord, and the second spring member second end is connected to the at least second cord, wherein pivoting of the seatback from the seated position towards the collapsed stowed position imposes tension upon the at least one cord, the spring members, the second cord, and the connected spring biased bench seat jam members, wherein the tension is sufficient to overcome said spring bias to release said bench seat jam members from said receiving chambers of the leg members.

12. The collapsible bench seat of claim 1, wherein the first locking mechanism comprises a locking pin, wherein the upright cabinet enclosure defines an aperture configured to receive the locking pin when the leg member is in the locked position.

13. The collapsible bench seat of claim 1, wherein said bed frame is a cabinet configured to receive and closely secure the mattress.

14. The collapsible bench seat of claim 7, wherein each armrest attached to the upright cabinet enclosure and a floor.

15. The collapsible bench seat of claim 1, wherein the backrest is pivotally connected to an elongated spacing member disposed along a surface of the bed frame.

16. A pivotal bench seat bed, comprising:

a bed frame configured to receive a mattress, said bed frame pivotally connected to a cabinet enclosure configured to be fixed to a wall, said bed frame pivotable between an upright stowed position to a horizontal sleeping position, said cabinet enclosure defining one or more retention chambers sized and configured to receive a respective retention member;

at least one bed leg hingeably connected to the bed frame, said bed leg operably connected to a retention member, wherein pivoting the at least one bed leg from a locked position to an unlocked position withdraws a portion of the retention member from the retention chamber to release said bed frame from the cabinet enclosure;

at least one armrest transitioning to a bench leg member, the armrest comprising a spring biased backrest jam member, wherein the bench leg member defines a receiving chamber configured to receive at least a portion of a spring biased bench seat jam member;

a backrest pivotally connected to an outer surface of the bed frame relative to the cabinet enclosure, wherein the backrest is configured to pivot from a seated position to a collapsed stowed position, said backrest defining at least one receiving groove configured to receive at least a portion of a spring biased backrest jam member;

a bench seat pivotally connected to the outer surface of the bed frame, wherein the bench seat is configured to pivot from a seated position to a collapsed stowed position, said bench seat comprising a spring biased bench seat jam member configured to extend into the receiving chamber of the bench leg member; and

at least one cord operably connected to the seat back and the spring biased bench seat jam member, wherein pivoting of the seatback from the seated position towards the collapsed stowed position imposes tension upon said cord and connected spring biased bench seat jam member sufficient to overcome said spring bias to release said bench seat jam member from said receiving chamber of the bench leg member.

17. A collapsible bench seat comprising:

a bed frame configured to receive a mattress, said bed frame pivotally connected to a cabinet enclosure configured to be fixed to a wall, said bed frame pivotable between an upright stowed position to a horizontal sleeping position, said cabinet enclosure defining one or more retention chambers sized and configured to receive at least a portion of a respective retention member;

a retention member enclosure defined by the bed frame, said retention member enclosure concealing a retention member operably disposed therein;

at least one bed leg hingeably connected to the bed frame, said at least one bed leg operably connected to the retention member concealed within the bed frame, wherein pivoting the at least one bed leg from a locked position to an unlocked position withdraws at least a portion of the retention member from the retention chamber to release said bed frame from the cabinet enclosure;

at least one armrest transitioning to a bench leg member, the at least one armrest comprising a spring biased backrest jam member, wherein the bench leg member defines a receiving chamber configured to receive at least a portion of a spring biased bench seat jam member;

a backrest pivotally connected to an outer surface of the bed frame relative to the cabinet enclosure, wherein the backrest is configured to pivot from a seated position to a collapsed stowed position, said backrest defining at least one receiving groove configured to receive at least a portion of a spring biased backrest jam member; and

a bench seat collapsibly connected to the outer surface of the bed frame, wherein the bench seat is configured to collapse from a seated position to a stowed position, said bench seat comprising a spring biased bench seat jam member configured to extend into the receiving chamber of the at least one bench leg member.

18. The collapsible bench seat of claim 17, further comprising at least one cord connecting the seat back to the spring biased bench seat jam member, wherein pivoting of the seatback from the seated position towards the collapsed stowed position imposes tension upon said cord and connected spring biased bench seat jam member sufficient to overcome said spring bias to release said bench seat jam member from said receiving chamber of the bench leg member.

19. The collapsible bench seat of claim 17 wherein the jam member has an angled surface.

20. The collapsible bench seat of claim 17 wherein the jam members are concealed when the bench seat is in the sitting position.

21. The collapsible bench seat of claim 17 a third spring member having a first end and a second end, the first end attached to the bed frame and the second end attached to the back rest, wherein the spring provides a force to pull the back rest towards the bed frame.

22. A collapsible bed, comprising:

a bed frame pivotally connected to the upright cabinet enclosure, wherein said bedframe has an outer surface relative to the cabinet enclosure; and

at least one or more lights fixed to the outer surface of the bed frame, wherein the at least one or more lights illuminate an upright wall area surrounding the collapsible bed when the bed frame is in the upright stowed position, and the at least one or more lights illuminate a floor area below the bed when the bed frame is in the horizontal sleeping position.

23. The collapsible bed of claim 22, further comprising a control box electrically connected to the at least one or more lights, said control box configured to turn the at least one or more lights off and on.

24. The collapsible bed of claim 23, the control box further comprising a dimmer configured to adjust the brightness of the at least one or more lights.

25. The collapsible bed of claim 22, further comprising a light switch support leg pivotally connected to the bed frame, the light switch support leg vertically supporting the bed frame when in the horizontal sleeping position.

26. The collapsible bed of claim 22, further comprising a motion sensor electrically connected to the at least one or more lights and configured to turn on the at least one or more lights in response to motion of nearby users.

27. The collapsible bed of claim 26, wherein the bed frame further comprises a light switch support leg pivotally connected to the outer surface of the bed frame, wherein movement of the light switch support leg from a closed position to an open position activates the motion sensor, wherein the light switch support leg vertically supports the bed frame when in the horizontal sleeping position.

28. The collapsible bed of claim 22, wherein the at least one or more lights comprise a wall sconce cover fixed to the outer surface of the bed frame.

29. The collapsible bed of claim 22, further comprising a light switch support leg pivotally connected to the bed frame, the light switch support leg vertically supporting the bed frame when in the horizontal sleeping position, wherein the at least one or more lights are fixed to the light switch support leg.

30. A lighting system for use with a Murphy bed, comprising:

at least one or more lights configured to be fixed to a surface of a bed frame of a Murphy bed, wherein the at least one or more lights illuminate an upright wall area surrounding the Murphy bed when the bed frame is in an upright stowed position, and the at least one or more lights illuminate a floor area below the bed when the bed frame is in a horizontal sleeping position;

a control box electrically connected to the at least one or more lights, said control box configured to turn the at least one or more lights off and on; and

a motion sensor configured to turn the at least one or more lights off and on in response to motion.

31. The lighting system of claim 30, wherein the motion sensor is oriented toward a ceiling of a room when the bed frame is in an upright stowed position, and wherein the motion sensor is oriented toward the floor of a room when the bed frame is in the horizontal sleeping position for illuminating the floor area upon motion of nearby users.

32. The lighting system of claim 30, wherein the motion sensor is activated when the bed frame is moved from the upright stowed position to the horizontal sleeping position for illuminating the floor area upon motion of nearby users.

33. The lighting system of claim 30, further comprising a dimmer configured to adjust the brightness of the at least one or more lights.

34. The lighting system of claim 30, wherein the at least one or more lights comprise a wall sconce cover fixed to an outer surface of the bed frame.