US20220192387A1 - Convertible Furniture - Google Patents

Convertible Furniture Download PDF

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Publication number
US20220192387A1
US20220192387A1 US17/645,370 US202117645370A US2022192387A1 US 20220192387 A1 US20220192387 A1 US 20220192387A1 US 202117645370 A US202117645370 A US 202117645370A US 2022192387 A1 US2022192387 A1 US 2022192387A1
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United States
Prior art keywords
furniture
kit
legs
frame
components
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Pending
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US17/645,370
Inventor
Adnan Sabic
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Individual
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Individual
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Publication date
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Priority to US17/645,370 priority Critical patent/US20220192387A1/en
Publication of US20220192387A1 publication Critical patent/US20220192387A1/en
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    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47BTABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
    • A47B85/00Furniture convertible into other kinds of furniture
    • A47B85/06Tables convertible otherwise
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47BTABLES; DESKS; OFFICE FURNITURE; CABINETS; DRAWERS; GENERAL DETAILS OF FURNITURE
    • A47B85/00Furniture convertible into other kinds of furniture
    • A47B85/04Tables convertible into chairs
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47CCHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C13/00Convertible chairs, stools or benches
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47CCHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C17/00Sofas; Couches; Beds
    • A47C17/04Seating furniture, e.g. sofas, couches, settees, or the like, with movable parts changeable to beds; Chair beds
    • A47C17/045Seating furniture having loose or by fabric hinge connected cushions changeable to beds
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47CCHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C17/00Sofas; Couches; Beds
    • A47C17/04Seating furniture, e.g. sofas, couches, settees, or the like, with movable parts changeable to beds; Chair beds
    • A47C17/37Changing sofas or the like into beds by means of furniture other than seats or chairs
    • AHUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47CCHAIRS; SOFAS; BEDS
    • A47C17/00Sofas; Couches; Beds
    • A47C17/52Cabinet beds; Table beds, or like beds; Wardrobe beds
    • A47C17/62Table beds; Billiard table beds, or like beds

Definitions

  • the present disclosure generally relates to convertible furniture, and more particularly, to a furniture kit arrangeable into different items of furniture.
  • Items of furniture such as a bed, a chair, a desk, a coffee table, an end table, a couch, etc.
  • Items of furniture are used in residences and business to make the space suitable for living and/or working.
  • conventional furniture typically only has a single function. To convert a room to a different use requires moving and replacing furniture with other furniture suited for the use of the room.
  • a furniture kit for creating different items of furniture comprises two first furniture components. Each first furniture component having a first top surface.
  • the kit also includes two second furniture components. Each second furniture components having a second top surface of a different size than the first top surface.
  • the kit also includes a pad and a plurality of legs. One or more of the first furniture components, the second furniture components, the pad and the plurality of legs are reconfigurable and/or arrangeable relative to one another to form one or more of the bed, a couch, a coffee table, an end table or a desk.
  • a furniture kit for creating different items of furniture comprises a first support having a first top surface and two second supports. Each second support has a second top surface of a different size than the first top surface.
  • the two second supports are identical.
  • the kit also includes a plurality of legs. At least a portion of the plurality of legs are selectively attachable to the first support to form a coffee table. At least the portion of the plurality of legs are selectively attachable to one of the second supports to form an end table.
  • the two second supports are selectively attachable to the first support to form a desk.
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective of a furniture kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure arranged as a bed;
  • FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of a pad of the furniture kit in a mattress configuration
  • FIG. 1B is a schematic illustration of the pad in a couch configuration
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective of the furniture kit arranged as a chair, a couch, a coffee table and an end table;
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective of a frame of the bed of FIG. 1 ;
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective of the coffee table
  • FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the coffee table
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective of the end table
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the end table
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective of the furniture kit arranged as a desk and the chair.
  • FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective of FIG. 5 .
  • FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of an alternative retainer.
  • the components, systems and methods described herein are for converting items of furniture, such as beds, chairs, desks, coffee tables, end tables, couches, and the like, into other items of furniture.
  • a furniture kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is generally indicated at 10 .
  • the furniture kit 10 is able to be arranged and rearranged to create different items of furniture, such as beds, chairs, desks, coffee tables, end tables, couches, and the like.
  • the furniture kit 10 can be arranged or assembled into one or more of (and even multiple of) a bed 12 ( FIG. 1 ), a couch 14 ( FIG. 2 ), a chair 16 ( FIG. 2 ), a coffee table 18 ( FIG. 2 ), an end table 20 ( FIG. 2 ), and a desk 22 ( FIG. 8 ).
  • the furniture kit 10 can be assembled or arranged into a bed configuration (e.g., a bed arrangement), a couch configuration (e.g., a couch arrangement), a chair configuration (e.g., a chair arrangement), a coffee table configuration (e.g., a coffee table arrangement), an end table configuration (e.g., an end table arrangement) and/or a desk configuration (e.g., a desk arrangement).
  • the furniture kit 10 is rearrangable such that one item (broadly, one or more items) of furniture can be broken down and the kit rearranged to form another item (broadly, one or more items) of furniture.
  • the components of the furniture kit 10 forming the bed 12 can be broken down and rearranged to form the couch 14 , the chair 12 , two coffee tables 18 , and two end tables 20 or rearranged to form the couch 14 , the chair 12 and the desk 22 .
  • Other combinations of items of furniture are within the scope of the present disclosure and, as will become apparent, the number of different items of furniture the furniture kit 10 can form at the same time depends on the quantity of each component that makes up the furniture kit. Accordingly, the kit can include any number of each component to make any desired number of different furniture items.
  • the furniture kit 10 includes two first furniture platforms 30 (e.g., panels or supports) (broadly, first furniture components), two second furniture platforms 32 (e.g., panels or supports) (broadly, second furniture components), a third furniture component 34 , a pad 36 , and a plurality of legs 38 .
  • first furniture components 30 , the second furniture components 32 , the third furniture component 34 , the pad 36 and the plurality of legs 38 are reconfigurable and/or arrangeable relative to one another to form one or more of the bed 12 , the couch 14 , the chair 16 , the coffee table 18 , the end table 20 or the desk 22 .
  • the furniture kit may not include one or more of the first furniture component 30 , the second furniture component 32 , the third furniture component 34 , the pad 36 , and the plurality of legs 38 . It is also understood that the furniture kit may include more or fewer of each of the first furniture component 30 , the second furniture component 32 , the third furniture component 34 , the pad 36 , and the plurality of legs 38 .
  • the pad 36 includes a plurality of panels 36 A-D (broadly, two or more panels) coupled together.
  • the two front panels 36 A, 36 B have the same depth and the two rear panels 36 C, 36 D have the same depth, which is less than the depth of the front panels.
  • Each panel 36 A-D is a rectangular cuboid having opposite top and bottom surfaces, opposite front and rear sides (e.g., side edge margins) and opposite first and second end sides (e.g., end edge margins).
  • the pad 36 is arrangeable in a mattress configuration ( FIG. 1A ), where the pad forms the mattress of the bed 12 ( FIG. 1 ), and a couch configuration ( FIG. 1B ), where the pad forms the couch 14 ( FIG. 2 ).
  • Each panel 36 A-D is movably attached to its adjacent panels.
  • the pad 36 (specifically panels 36 A, 36 B) define the seat of the couch 14 and the pad (specifically panels 36 C, 36 D) define the backrest of the couch.
  • the panels 36 A-D are in a stacked arrangement.
  • the panels 36 A-D are folded back on one another to form the couch 14 .
  • the pad 36 is generally planar.
  • the panels 36 A-D are arranged side-by-side. In other words, the panels 36 A-D are laid flat to form the mattress of the bed 12 .
  • each set of adjacent panels 36 A-D such as panels 36 A and 36 B, are connected together.
  • each panel 36 A-D is attached to its adjacent panel(s) with a hinge 37 , such as a flexible strip of fabric, although other ways of attaching adjacent panels together are within the scope of the present disclosure.
  • a hinge 37 connecting the two front panels 36 A, 36 B allows the second panel 36 B to fold back onto the first panel 36 A (e.g., the bottom surfaces engage one another), a hinge connecting the second and third panels 36 B, 36 C allows the third panel 36 C to fold back onto the second panel 36 B (e.g., the top surfaces engage one another) and a hinge connecting the two rear panels 36 C, 36 D allows the fourth panel 36 D to fold back onto the third panel 36 C (e.g., the bottom surfaces engage one another).
  • the hinges may be configured to allow the pad 36 to fold in other ways.
  • a user folds the panels 36 A-D relative to one another to form the couch 14 and unfold the panels to from the mattress of the bed 12 .
  • the pad 36 may include at least one handle 40 for carrying.
  • the front side of the first panel 36 A and the front side of the third panel 36 C each have two handles 40 mounted thereon.
  • the pad 36 can be folded back on itself such that the handles 40 on the first and third panels 36 A, 36 C become aligned so that the aligned handles can be used at the same time to facilitate easy picking up and carrying of the pad by the user.
  • the first furniture component 30 is generally planar. As will become apparent, the first furniture component 30 may be used to form the bed 12 , the coffee table 18 or the desk 22 .
  • the first furniture component 30 includes a top (e.g., work) surface 42 . This top surface 42 supports the pad 12 when forming part of the bed 12 and defines a work surface when forming part of the coffee table 18 or the desk 22 .
  • the first furniture component 30 includes a rigid frame 44 .
  • the frame 44 is rectangular with opposite first and second end members 44 A, 44 B and opposite first and second side members 44 C, 44 D.
  • the first and second end members 44 A, 44 B are attached to the first and second side members 44 C, 44 D.
  • the first furniture component 30 also includes a top (e.g., work) panel 46 that defines the top surface 42 (broadly, at least a portion thereof).
  • the top panel 46 is supported by the frame 44 .
  • the top panel 46 may be releasably coupled to (e.g., removable from) the frame 44 .
  • the frame 44 includes a first and second lips or shoulders 48 extending inwardly from the respective first and second side members 44 C, 44 D which support the top panel 46 . When supported by the lips 48 , the top surface of the top panel 46 is flush with (e.g., coplanar with) a top surface of the frame 44 .
  • the top panel 46 includes a plurality of panel members 50 coupled together by flexible strips of material (not shown), such as a fabric (e.g., a strip of fabric connected (e.g., glued) to one side of each panel member).
  • the flexible strips of material allow the panel members 50 (e.g., planks or boards) to move relative to one another to allow the top panel 46 to be folded or rolled up and easily stored when not being used.
  • the panel members 50 are also spaced apart.
  • the frame 44 may include one or more locators 52 configured to engage the top panel 46 to position the top panel relative to the frame 44 .
  • the locators 52 are arranged on the lips 48 to be disposed in a gap between adjacent panel members 50 to position the top panel 46 on the frame 44 .
  • the frame 44 includes threaded openings (not shown) on the bottom surface for coupling to the legs 38 .
  • the frame 44 includes four threaded openings disposed at the corners of the frame.
  • Other configurations of the first furniture component 30 are within the scope of the present disclosure. Each first furniture component 30 may be identical.
  • the second furniture component 32 is generally similar or analogous to the first furniture component 30 and, thus, for ease of comprehension, where similar, analogous or identical parts are used, identical reference numerals are employed. Accordingly, unless clearly stated or indicated otherwise, the descriptions herein regarding the first furniture component 30 also apply to the second furniture component 32 .
  • the second furniture component 32 may be used to form the bed 12 , the end table 20 or the desk 22 .
  • the main difference between the first and second furniture components 30 , 32 is that the second furniture component has a smaller size (e.g., footprint) than the first furniture component.
  • the length of the second furniture component 32 is less than (preferably, about half of) the length of the first furniture component 30 .
  • the top surface 42 of the second furniture component 32 has a different (e.g., smaller) size (e.g., surface area) than the top surface of the first furniture component 30 .
  • the first and second furniture components 30 , 32 have the same width.
  • the second furniture component 32 may not include the retainers 64 , as described in more detail herein, of the first furniture component 30 .
  • Other configurations of the second furniture component are within the scope of the present disclosure.
  • Each second furniture component 32 may be identical.
  • Each leg 38 is releasably attachable to the first and second furniture components 30 , 32 .
  • Each leg 38 may include a threaded rod (not shown) (e.g., a bolt) configured to thread into one of the thread openings of the first or second furniture components 30 , 32 .
  • Each leg 38 has a height for spacing the first or second furniture component 30 , 32 from a support surface (e.g., floor).
  • each leg 38 has a height of about 6 inches (about 15 cm), although other heights are within the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the kit 10 is provided with different sets of legs, each set of legs having a different height. For example, one set of legs can have a height of about 6 inches (about 15 cm), another set of legs can have a height of about 12 inches (about 30 cm), and another set of legs can have a height of about 18 inches (about 46 cm).
  • the third furniture component 34 is arrangeable in a headboard configuration, where the third furniture component forms a headboard of the bed 12 , and a chair configuration, where the third furniture component forms the chair 34 .
  • the third furniture component 34 includes a first frame member 54 and the second frame member 56 .
  • the first and second frame members 54 , 56 are movably coupled together by a hinge.
  • the hinge pivotably couples adjacent ends of the first and second frame members 54 , 56 together.
  • the first and second frame members 54 , 56 each have a generally rectangular frame with opposite first and second side members and opposite first and second end members.
  • the first and second frame members 54 , 56 also each have a support surface 58 .
  • the second frame member 56 includes a support panel that define the support surface 58 (broadly, at least a portion of the support surface).
  • the support panel of the second frame member 56 is similar to the top panel 46 , except that the support panel is preferably fixed to the frame of the second frame member 56 .
  • the second frame member 56 is generally planar.
  • the first frame member 54 includes a chair panel 60 and a back panel 62 , each defining a portion of the support surface 58 .
  • the chair panel 60 defines a chair section 58 A of the support surface 58 and the back panel 62 defines a back section 58 B of the support surface ( FIG. 2 ).
  • the base panel 62 is disposed between the chair panel 60 and the hinge.
  • the chair panel 60 is movable relative to the frame of the first frame member 54 between a chair position ( FIG. 8 ) and a headboard position ( FIG. 1 ). Specifically, the chair panel 60 turns or pivots relative to the frame of the first frame member 54 between the chair and headboard positions. In the headboard position, the chair panel 60 is generally coplanar (e.g., flush) with the back panel 62 . In the chair position, the chair panel 60 is at an angle to the back panel 62 (e.g., the chair and back panels defines planes that are at an angle to each other and, preferably, at an obtuse angle relative to each other).
  • the third furniture component 34 includes one or more retainers (not shown) to secure the chair panel 60 to the second frame member 56 and, thereby, in the chair position. Other configurations of the third furniture component 34 are within the scope of the present disclosure.
  • the third furniture component 34 is arrangeable (e.g., reconfigurable) in a chair configuration ( FIG. 8 ) and a headboard configuration ( FIG. 1 ).
  • the third furniture component 34 forms the headboard of the bed 12 .
  • the chair panel 60 of the first frame member 54 is in the chair position and the first and second frame members 54 , 56 are generally coplanar with one another.
  • the third furniture component 34 is generally planar with the support surfaces 58 of the first and second frame members 54 , 56 generally coplanar with one another.
  • the third furniture component 34 forms the chair 16 .
  • the first and second frame members 54 , 56 are at an angle (e.g., an acute angle) relative to one another and the chair panel 60 is in the chair position. Securing the chair panel 60 to the second frame member 56 with the one or more retainers, secures or holds the third furniture component 34 in the chair configuration.
  • the chair section 58 A of the support surface 58 is generally horizontal and the back section 58 B of the support surface is generally vertical (e.g., disposed at a slight angle (about 0 to 20 degrees) to the vertical).
  • the chair section 58 A is configured to support the buttocks of a person and the back section 58 B is configured to support the back of the person.
  • the frames of the first and second frame members 54 , 56 generally form the legs of the chair 16 .
  • a user To reconfigure (e.g., move) the third furniture component 34 from the headboard configuration to the chair configuration, a user first rotates the first and second frame members 54 , 56 toward one another about the hinge. The user rotates the first and second frame members 54 , 56 such that the support surfaces 58 thereof do not face one another. After, the user moves the chair panel 60 to the chair position. The user rotates or pivots an outer end of the chair panel 60 upward, which correspondingly moves the opposite inner end of the chair panel downward, toward the second frame member 54 . The user then uses the one or more retainers to secure the chair panel 60 to the second frame member 54 , thereby securing the third furniture component 34 in the chair configuration and forming the chair 16 .
  • the user To reconfigure the third furniture component 34 from the chair configuration to the headboard configuration, the user generally reverses the steps.
  • the user releases the one or more retainers and then rotates the chair panel 60 to be coplanar with the back panel 62 (e.g., rotate the outer end of the chair panel downward).
  • the user rotates the first and second frame members 54 , 56 away from one another until the support surfaces 58 are generally coplanar.
  • the following components are used: two first furniture components 30 , two second furniture components 32 , a third furniture component 34 and a pad 36 .
  • the two first furniture components 30 and the two second furniture components 32 are arrangeable next to one another to form a frame FIG. 3 ) of the bed 12 .
  • the first and second furniture components 30 , 32 are laid flat on a support surface (e.g., a floor) and next to one another to form the frame of the bed 12 .
  • the frame of the bed 12 is sized and shaped to support (e.g., underlie generally the entirety of) the pad 36 when the pad is in the mattress configuration.
  • the pad 36 is placed in the mattress configuration and then placed on top of the frame.
  • the weight of the pad 36 generally keeps first and second furniture components 30 , 32 of the frame together.
  • the third furniture component 34 is placed in the headboard configuration and then placed at the rear end of the frame.
  • the third furniture component 34 rests on the frame and may rest against a wall (not shown), with the rear side of the pad 36 disposed in front of the third furniture component to prevent the third furniture component from falling.
  • the plurality of legs 38 may be used to form the bed.
  • the legs 38 are secured to the first and second furniture components 30 , 32 to raise the height of the frame and therefore the height of the pad 36 .
  • a first furniture component 30 and four legs 38 .
  • Each of the four legs 38 are coupled to the first furniture component 30 by threading the threaded rods into the thread openings.
  • the top surface 42 of the first furniture component 30 forms the supporting surface of the coffee table 18 .
  • the following components are used: a second furniture component 32 and four legs 38 .
  • Each of the four legs 38 are coupled to the second furniture component 32 by threading the threaded rods into the thread openings.
  • the top surface 42 of the second furniture component 32 forms the supporting surface of the end table 18 .
  • the kit 10 may include more than four legs 38 , such as 16 legs, so that two coffee tables 18 and two end tables 20 can be formed at the same time.
  • the kit 10 includes one set of legs 38 (e.g., four legs) for each first furniture component 30 and each second furniture component 32 of the kit. Accordingly, it is understood only a portion of the plurality of legs 38 may be used to form each coffee table 18 and each end table 20 .
  • a first furniture component 30 and two second furniture components 32 are used: a first furniture component 30 and two second furniture components 32 .
  • the chair 16 for the desk 22 may be formed from the third furniture component 34 as described herein.
  • the two second furniture components 32 are each releasably attachable to the first furniture component 30 .
  • the first furniture component 30 forms the platform or tabletop of the desk 22 and the second furniture components 32 form the legs of the desk.
  • the top panels 50 of the second furniture components 32 are each removed from the frames 44 .
  • the top panels 50 can be stored. In one embodiment, the top panels 50 may remain coupled to the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 .
  • the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 are secured to the first furniture component 30 .
  • the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 are secured to opposite sides of the frame of the first furniture component 30 .
  • the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 rest on a support surface (e.g., a floor), thereby supporting the first furniture component 30 (e.g., top surface 42 ) above the floor.
  • the top surface 42 of the first furniture component 30 is the work surface of the desk 22 .
  • the steps are generally reversed.
  • the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 disconnected from the frame of the first furniture component 30 .
  • the top panels 50 may then be placed back on the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 .
  • the first and second furniture components 30 , 32 can then be used to construct other items of furniture.
  • the first furniture component includes a plurality of retainers 64 ( FIG. 9 ) (broadly, at least one retainer for each second furniture component).
  • Each retainer 64 is configured to selectively attach one of the second furniture components 32 to the first furniture component 30 .
  • the retainers can also be used to secure one or more of the plurality of legs.
  • the first furniture component 30 includes four retainers 64 , generally disposed at the corners of the frame 44 .
  • the retainers 64 are all identical, so one retainer will now be described herein with the understanding the other retainers have essentially the same construction and operation.
  • the retainer 64 includes a first or longitudinal keeper 66 spaced apart from and facing (e.g., having a surface face) one of the end members 44 A, 44 B of the frame 44 .
  • the longitudinal keeper 66 is attached to (e.g., mounted on) one of the side members 44 C, 44 D.
  • the longitudinal keeper 66 and the end member 44 A, 44 B of the frame 44 define (e.g., bound) a receiving space or gap 68 therebetween sized and shaped to receive the frame (e.g., a portion thereof) of the second furniture component 32 .
  • the longitudinal keeper 66 is configured to inhibit longitudinal movement of the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 relative to the first furniture component 30 .
  • the longitudinal keeper 66 and the end member 44 A, 44 B engage and brace the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 to inhibit longitudinal movement of the frame of the second furniture component relative to the first furniture component 30 .
  • the retainer 64 may also include a second or lateral keeper 70 spaced apart from and facing (e.g., having a surface face) one of the side members 44 C, 44 D of the frame 44 of the first furniture component 30 .
  • the lateral keeper 70 is attached to (e.g., mounted on) one of the end members 44 A, 44 B.
  • the lateral keeper 70 and the side member 44 C, 44 D of the frame 44 define (e.g., bound) the gap 68 therebetween.
  • the lateral keeper 70 is configured to inhibit lateral movement of the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 relative to the first furniture component 30 .
  • the lateral keeper 70 and the side member 44 C, 44 D engage and brace the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 to inhibit longitudinal movement of the frame of the second furniture component relative to the first furniture component 30 .
  • the retainer 64 also includes a locker 72 configured to secure and lock the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 to the frame of the first furniture component 30 .
  • the locker 72 includes a shaft or pin (not shown) that is aligned with a locking opening (not shown) of the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 when the frame of the second furniture component is disposed in the gap 68 .
  • the locker 72 also includes a handle or actuator 74 configured to move the shaft into and out of the locking opening.
  • the locker 72 is supported by the longitudinal keeper 66 (e.g., the shaft moves or slides within longitudinal keeper).
  • the actuator 74 has a cam end pivotably coupled to the shaft.
  • the cam end of the actuator 74 engages the longitudinal keeper 66 such that when the actuator 74 is rotated in one direction, the shaft moves into the locking opening (e.g., toward and into the gap 68 ) of the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 to secure the frame to the first furniture component 30 , and such that when the actuator is rotated in the opposite (e.g., second) direction, the shaft moves out of the locking opening (e.g., away and out of from the gap) of the frame of the second furniture component thereby permitting the frame to be released from the first furniture component.
  • the shaft may be biased by a spring (not shown) either toward or away from the gap 68 .
  • the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 engages the lip 48 (e.g., the underside thereof), when the second furniture component is coupled to the first furniture component 30 via the retainer 64 .
  • the first furniture component includes a plurality of retainers 64 ( FIG. 10 ).
  • the retainer is shown as a clamp (e.g., a threaded clamp).
  • the retainers can also be used to secure one or more of the plurality of legs.
  • the first furniture component 30 includes four retainers 64 , generally disposed at the corners of the frame 44 .
  • the retainers 64 can be identical.
  • the retainer shown in FIG. 10 will now be described herein with the understanding the other retainers have essentially the same construction and operation.
  • the retainer 64 includes an angle bracket 80 , which is attached or fastened to frame 44 (e.g., by screws, bolts or welded).
  • the angle bracket 80 defines a threaded opening that threadably receives a clamp 82 , which includes a threaded rod 84 , knob 86 (broadly, actuator), and clamp face 88 .
  • the clamp 82 is rotated (typically clockwise)
  • the clamp face 88 applies pressure to the frame 44 of second furniture component 32 to inhibit movement of the second furniture component 32 relative to the first furniture component 30 .
  • the clamp face of the clamp 82 clamps the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 against the frame of the first furniture component 30 .
  • the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 engages the lip 48 (e.g., the underside thereof), when the second furniture component is coupled to the first furniture component 30 .

Abstract

The present disclosure generally relates to convertible furniture, and more particularly, to a furniture kit arrangeable into different items of furniture, such as a bed, a desk, a chair, a couch, a coffee table, an end table, etc.

Description

    CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
  • This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/128,604, filed Dec. 21, 2020, the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference.
  • FIELD
  • The present disclosure generally relates to convertible furniture, and more particularly, to a furniture kit arrangeable into different items of furniture.
  • BACKGROUND
  • Items of furniture, such as a bed, a chair, a desk, a coffee table, an end table, a couch, etc., are used in residences and business to make the space suitable for living and/or working. In some instances, it is desirable for a room to have multiple uses. For example, it is sometimes desirable for an office or den to also function as a bedroom, or vice versa. However, conventional furniture typically only has a single function. To convert a room to a different use requires moving and replacing furniture with other furniture suited for the use of the room. Thus, there remains a need for furniture that is convertible and has multiple functions and uses.
  • Further, in some cities, particularly high density cities, residential space is limited and/or expensive for unit of area. As such, the area of residential spaces such as apartments and condominiums may be relatively small. In these small spaces, it is difficult to accommodate a large amount of conventional single function furniture. Thus, there remains a need for furniture that is convertible, has multiple functions, and can be used in small residential spaces.
  • SUMMARY
  • In one aspect, a furniture kit for creating different items of furniture comprises two first furniture components. Each first furniture component having a first top surface. The kit also includes two second furniture components. Each second furniture components having a second top surface of a different size than the first top surface. The kit also includes a pad and a plurality of legs. One or more of the first furniture components, the second furniture components, the pad and the plurality of legs are reconfigurable and/or arrangeable relative to one another to form one or more of the bed, a couch, a coffee table, an end table or a desk.
  • In another aspect, a furniture kit for creating different items of furniture comprises a first support having a first top surface and two second supports. Each second support has a second top surface of a different size than the first top surface. The two second supports are identical. The kit also includes a plurality of legs. At least a portion of the plurality of legs are selectively attachable to the first support to form a coffee table. At least the portion of the plurality of legs are selectively attachable to one of the second supports to form an end table. The two second supports are selectively attachable to the first support to form a desk.
  • Other objects and features of the present disclosure will be in part apparent and in part pointed out hereinafter.
  • BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
  • FIG. 1 is a perspective of a furniture kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure arranged as a bed;
  • FIG. 1A is a schematic illustration of a pad of the furniture kit in a mattress configuration;
  • FIG. 1B is a schematic illustration of the pad in a couch configuration;
  • FIG. 2 is a perspective of the furniture kit arranged as a chair, a couch, a coffee table and an end table;
  • FIG. 3 is a perspective of a frame of the bed of FIG. 1;
  • FIG. 4 is a perspective of the coffee table;
  • FIG. 5 is an exploded view of the coffee table;
  • FIG. 6 is a perspective of the end table;
  • FIG. 7 is an exploded view of the end table;
  • FIG. 8 is a perspective of the furniture kit arranged as a desk and the chair; and
  • FIG. 9 is an enlarged perspective of FIG. 5.
  • FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of an alternative retainer.
  • Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the drawings.
  • DETAILED DESCRIPTION
  • In general, the components, systems and methods described herein are for converting items of furniture, such as beds, chairs, desks, coffee tables, end tables, couches, and the like, into other items of furniture.
  • Referring to FIG. 1, a furniture kit according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is generally indicated at 10. The furniture kit 10 is able to be arranged and rearranged to create different items of furniture, such as beds, chairs, desks, coffee tables, end tables, couches, and the like. In the illustrated embodiment, the furniture kit 10 can be arranged or assembled into one or more of (and even multiple of) a bed 12 (FIG. 1), a couch 14 (FIG. 2), a chair 16 (FIG. 2), a coffee table 18 (FIG. 2), an end table 20 (FIG. 2), and a desk 22 (FIG. 8). In other words, the furniture kit 10 can be assembled or arranged into a bed configuration (e.g., a bed arrangement), a couch configuration (e.g., a couch arrangement), a chair configuration (e.g., a chair arrangement), a coffee table configuration (e.g., a coffee table arrangement), an end table configuration (e.g., an end table arrangement) and/or a desk configuration (e.g., a desk arrangement). Moreover, the furniture kit 10 is rearrangable such that one item (broadly, one or more items) of furniture can be broken down and the kit rearranged to form another item (broadly, one or more items) of furniture. For example, the components of the furniture kit 10 forming the bed 12 can be broken down and rearranged to form the couch 14, the chair 12, two coffee tables 18, and two end tables 20 or rearranged to form the couch 14, the chair 12 and the desk 22. Other combinations of items of furniture are within the scope of the present disclosure and, as will become apparent, the number of different items of furniture the furniture kit 10 can form at the same time depends on the quantity of each component that makes up the furniture kit. Accordingly, the kit can include any number of each component to make any desired number of different furniture items. In the illustrated embodiment, the furniture kit 10 includes two first furniture platforms 30 (e.g., panels or supports) (broadly, first furniture components), two second furniture platforms 32 (e.g., panels or supports) (broadly, second furniture components), a third furniture component 34, a pad 36, and a plurality of legs 38. One or more of the first furniture components 30, the second furniture components 32, the third furniture component 34, the pad 36 and the plurality of legs 38 are reconfigurable and/or arrangeable relative to one another to form one or more of the bed 12, the couch 14, the chair 16, the coffee table 18, the end table 20 or the desk 22. It is understood, the furniture kit may not include one or more of the first furniture component 30, the second furniture component 32, the third furniture component 34, the pad 36, and the plurality of legs 38. It is also understood that the furniture kit may include more or fewer of each of the first furniture component 30, the second furniture component 32, the third furniture component 34, the pad 36, and the plurality of legs 38.
  • Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the pad 36 includes a plurality of panels 36A-D (broadly, two or more panels) coupled together. The two front panels 36A, 36B have the same depth and the two rear panels 36C, 36D have the same depth, which is less than the depth of the front panels. Each panel 36A-D is a rectangular cuboid having opposite top and bottom surfaces, opposite front and rear sides (e.g., side edge margins) and opposite first and second end sides (e.g., end edge margins). The pad 36 is arrangeable in a mattress configuration (FIG. 1A), where the pad forms the mattress of the bed 12 (FIG. 1), and a couch configuration (FIG. 1B), where the pad forms the couch 14 (FIG. 2). Each panel 36A-D is movably attached to its adjacent panels. In the couch configuration, the pad 36 (specifically panels 36A, 36B) define the seat of the couch 14 and the pad (specifically panels 36C, 36D) define the backrest of the couch. The panels 36A-D are in a stacked arrangement. The panels 36A-D are folded back on one another to form the couch 14. In the mattress configuration, the pad 36 is generally planar. The panels 36A-D are arranged side-by-side. In other words, the panels 36A-D are laid flat to form the mattress of the bed 12.
  • Each set of adjacent panels 36A-D, such as panels 36A and 36B, are connected together. In the illustrated embodiment, each panel 36A-D is attached to its adjacent panel(s) with a hinge 37, such as a flexible strip of fabric, although other ways of attaching adjacent panels together are within the scope of the present disclosure. A hinge 37 connecting the two front panels 36A, 36B allows the second panel 36B to fold back onto the first panel 36A (e.g., the bottom surfaces engage one another), a hinge connecting the second and third panels 36B, 36C allows the third panel 36C to fold back onto the second panel 36B (e.g., the top surfaces engage one another) and a hinge connecting the two rear panels 36C, 36D allows the fourth panel 36D to fold back onto the third panel 36C (e.g., the bottom surfaces engage one another). The hinges may be configured to allow the pad 36 to fold in other ways. A user folds the panels 36A-D relative to one another to form the couch 14 and unfold the panels to from the mattress of the bed 12. The pad 36 may include at least one handle 40 for carrying. In the illustrated embodiment, the front side of the first panel 36A and the front side of the third panel 36C each have two handles 40 mounted thereon. The pad 36 can be folded back on itself such that the handles 40 on the first and third panels 36A, 36C become aligned so that the aligned handles can be used at the same time to facilitate easy picking up and carrying of the pad by the user.
  • Referring to FIGS. 2-5, the first furniture component 30 is generally planar. As will become apparent, the first furniture component 30 may be used to form the bed 12, the coffee table 18 or the desk 22. The first furniture component 30 includes a top (e.g., work) surface 42. This top surface 42 supports the pad 12 when forming part of the bed 12 and defines a work surface when forming part of the coffee table 18 or the desk 22. The first furniture component 30 includes a rigid frame 44. The frame 44 is rectangular with opposite first and second end members 44A, 44B and opposite first and second side members 44C, 44D. The first and second end members 44A, 44B are attached to the first and second side members 44C, 44D. The first furniture component 30 also includes a top (e.g., work) panel 46 that defines the top surface 42 (broadly, at least a portion thereof). The top panel 46 is supported by the frame 44. The top panel 46 may be releasably coupled to (e.g., removable from) the frame 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 44 includes a first and second lips or shoulders 48 extending inwardly from the respective first and second side members 44C, 44D which support the top panel 46. When supported by the lips 48, the top surface of the top panel 46 is flush with (e.g., coplanar with) a top surface of the frame 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the top panel 46 includes a plurality of panel members 50 coupled together by flexible strips of material (not shown), such as a fabric (e.g., a strip of fabric connected (e.g., glued) to one side of each panel member). The flexible strips of material allow the panel members 50 (e.g., planks or boards) to move relative to one another to allow the top panel 46 to be folded or rolled up and easily stored when not being used. The panel members 50 are also spaced apart. The frame 44 may include one or more locators 52 configured to engage the top panel 46 to position the top panel relative to the frame 44. In the illustrated embodiment, the locators 52 are arranged on the lips 48 to be disposed in a gap between adjacent panel members 50 to position the top panel 46 on the frame 44. The frame 44 includes threaded openings (not shown) on the bottom surface for coupling to the legs 38. The frame 44 includes four threaded openings disposed at the corners of the frame. Other configurations of the first furniture component 30 are within the scope of the present disclosure. Each first furniture component 30 may be identical.
  • Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the second furniture component 32 is generally similar or analogous to the first furniture component 30 and, thus, for ease of comprehension, where similar, analogous or identical parts are used, identical reference numerals are employed. Accordingly, unless clearly stated or indicated otherwise, the descriptions herein regarding the first furniture component 30 also apply to the second furniture component 32. As will become apparent, the second furniture component 32 may be used to form the bed 12, the end table 20 or the desk 22. The main difference between the first and second furniture components 30, 32 is that the second furniture component has a smaller size (e.g., footprint) than the first furniture component. In particular, the length of the second furniture component 32 is less than (preferably, about half of) the length of the first furniture component 30. Thus, the top surface 42 of the second furniture component 32 has a different (e.g., smaller) size (e.g., surface area) than the top surface of the first furniture component 30. Preferably, the first and second furniture components 30, 32 have the same width. In addition, the second furniture component 32 may not include the retainers 64, as described in more detail herein, of the first furniture component 30. Other configurations of the second furniture component are within the scope of the present disclosure. Each second furniture component 32 may be identical.
  • Each leg 38 is releasably attachable to the first and second furniture components 30, 32. Each leg 38 may include a threaded rod (not shown) (e.g., a bolt) configured to thread into one of the thread openings of the first or second furniture components 30, 32. Each leg 38 has a height for spacing the first or second furniture component 30, 32 from a support surface (e.g., floor). In one embodiment, each leg 38 has a height of about 6 inches (about 15 cm), although other heights are within the scope of the present disclosure. In one embodiment, the kit 10 is provided with different sets of legs, each set of legs having a different height. For example, one set of legs can have a height of about 6 inches (about 15 cm), another set of legs can have a height of about 12 inches (about 30 cm), and another set of legs can have a height of about 18 inches (about 46 cm).
  • Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 8, the third furniture component 34 is arrangeable in a headboard configuration, where the third furniture component forms a headboard of the bed 12, and a chair configuration, where the third furniture component forms the chair 34. The third furniture component 34 includes a first frame member 54 and the second frame member 56. The first and second frame members 54, 56 are movably coupled together by a hinge. The hinge pivotably couples adjacent ends of the first and second frame members 54, 56 together. The first and second frame members 54, 56 each have a generally rectangular frame with opposite first and second side members and opposite first and second end members. The first and second frame members 54, 56 also each have a support surface 58. In the illustrated embodiment, the second frame member 56 includes a support panel that define the support surface 58 (broadly, at least a portion of the support surface). The support panel of the second frame member 56 is similar to the top panel 46, except that the support panel is preferably fixed to the frame of the second frame member 56. The second frame member 56 is generally planar. The first frame member 54 includes a chair panel 60 and a back panel 62, each defining a portion of the support surface 58. The chair panel 60 defines a chair section 58A of the support surface 58 and the back panel 62 defines a back section 58B of the support surface (FIG. 2). The base panel 62 is disposed between the chair panel 60 and the hinge. The chair panel 60 is movable relative to the frame of the first frame member 54 between a chair position (FIG. 8) and a headboard position (FIG. 1). Specifically, the chair panel 60 turns or pivots relative to the frame of the first frame member 54 between the chair and headboard positions. In the headboard position, the chair panel 60 is generally coplanar (e.g., flush) with the back panel 62. In the chair position, the chair panel 60 is at an angle to the back panel 62 (e.g., the chair and back panels defines planes that are at an angle to each other and, preferably, at an obtuse angle relative to each other). The third furniture component 34 includes one or more retainers (not shown) to secure the chair panel 60 to the second frame member 56 and, thereby, in the chair position. Other configurations of the third furniture component 34 are within the scope of the present disclosure.
  • The third furniture component 34 is arrangeable (e.g., reconfigurable) in a chair configuration (FIG. 8) and a headboard configuration (FIG. 1). In the headboard configuration, the third furniture component 34 forms the headboard of the bed 12. In the headboard configuration, the chair panel 60 of the first frame member 54 is in the chair position and the first and second frame members 54, 56 are generally coplanar with one another. In this configuration, the third furniture component 34 is generally planar with the support surfaces 58 of the first and second frame members 54, 56 generally coplanar with one another. In the chair configuration, the third furniture component 34 forms the chair 16. In this configuration, the first and second frame members 54, 56 are at an angle (e.g., an acute angle) relative to one another and the chair panel 60 is in the chair position. Securing the chair panel 60 to the second frame member 56 with the one or more retainers, secures or holds the third furniture component 34 in the chair configuration. In the chair configuration, the chair section 58A of the support surface 58 is generally horizontal and the back section 58B of the support surface is generally vertical (e.g., disposed at a slight angle (about 0 to 20 degrees) to the vertical). The chair section 58A is configured to support the buttocks of a person and the back section 58B is configured to support the back of the person. In this configuration, the frames of the first and second frame members 54, 56 generally form the legs of the chair 16.
  • To reconfigure (e.g., move) the third furniture component 34 from the headboard configuration to the chair configuration, a user first rotates the first and second frame members 54, 56 toward one another about the hinge. The user rotates the first and second frame members 54, 56 such that the support surfaces 58 thereof do not face one another. After, the user moves the chair panel 60 to the chair position. The user rotates or pivots an outer end of the chair panel 60 upward, which correspondingly moves the opposite inner end of the chair panel downward, toward the second frame member 54. The user then uses the one or more retainers to secure the chair panel 60 to the second frame member 54, thereby securing the third furniture component 34 in the chair configuration and forming the chair 16. To reconfigure the third furniture component 34 from the chair configuration to the headboard configuration, the user generally reverses the steps. The user releases the one or more retainers and then rotates the chair panel 60 to be coplanar with the back panel 62 (e.g., rotate the outer end of the chair panel downward). After, the user rotates the first and second frame members 54, 56 away from one another until the support surfaces 58 are generally coplanar.
  • Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, to form a bed 12 from the furniture kit 10, the following components are used: two first furniture components 30, two second furniture components 32, a third furniture component 34 and a pad 36. The two first furniture components 30 and the two second furniture components 32 are arrangeable next to one another to form a frame FIG. 3) of the bed 12. The first and second furniture components 30, 32 are laid flat on a support surface (e.g., a floor) and next to one another to form the frame of the bed 12. The frame of the bed 12 is sized and shaped to support (e.g., underlie generally the entirety of) the pad 36 when the pad is in the mattress configuration. The pad 36 is placed in the mattress configuration and then placed on top of the frame. The weight of the pad 36 generally keeps first and second furniture components 30, 32 of the frame together. The third furniture component 34 is placed in the headboard configuration and then placed at the rear end of the frame. The third furniture component 34 rests on the frame and may rest against a wall (not shown), with the rear side of the pad 36 disposed in front of the third furniture component to prevent the third furniture component from falling. In one embodiment, the plurality of legs 38 may be used to form the bed. The legs 38 are secured to the first and second furniture components 30, 32 to raise the height of the frame and therefore the height of the pad 36.
  • Referring to FIGS. 2, 4 and 5, to form a coffee table 18 from the furniture kit 10, the following components are used: a first furniture component 30 and four legs 38. Each of the four legs 38 are coupled to the first furniture component 30 by threading the threaded rods into the thread openings. In the coffee table configuration, the top surface 42 of the first furniture component 30 forms the supporting surface of the coffee table 18.
  • Referring to FIGS. 2, 6 and 7, to form an end table 20 from the furniture kit 10, the following components are used: a second furniture component 32 and four legs 38. Each of the four legs 38 are coupled to the second furniture component 32 by threading the threaded rods into the thread openings. In the end table configuration, the top surface 42 of the second furniture component 32 forms the supporting surface of the end table 18. It is understood the kit 10 may include more than four legs 38, such as 16 legs, so that two coffee tables 18 and two end tables 20 can be formed at the same time. In one embodiment, the kit 10 includes one set of legs 38 (e.g., four legs) for each first furniture component 30 and each second furniture component 32 of the kit. Accordingly, it is understood only a portion of the plurality of legs 38 may be used to form each coffee table 18 and each end table 20.
  • Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, to form a desk 22 from the furniture kit 10, the following components are used: a first furniture component 30 and two second furniture components 32. The chair 16 for the desk 22 may be formed from the third furniture component 34 as described herein. The two second furniture components 32 are each releasably attachable to the first furniture component 30. In the desk configuration, the first furniture component 30 forms the platform or tabletop of the desk 22 and the second furniture components 32 form the legs of the desk. To form the desk 22, the top panels 50 of the second furniture components 32 are each removed from the frames 44. The top panels 50 can be stored. In one embodiment, the top panels 50 may remain coupled to the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32. After the top panels 50 are removed, the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 are secured to the first furniture component 30. In particular, the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 are secured to opposite sides of the frame of the first furniture component 30. The frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 rest on a support surface (e.g., a floor), thereby supporting the first furniture component 30 (e.g., top surface 42) above the floor. The top surface 42 of the first furniture component 30 is the work surface of the desk 22. To disassemble the desk 22 to from other items of furniture, the steps are generally reversed. The frames 44 of the second furniture components 32 disconnected from the frame of the first furniture component 30. The top panels 50 may then be placed back on the frames 44 of the second furniture components 32. The first and second furniture components 30, 32 can then be used to construct other items of furniture.
  • To secure each frame 44 of the second furniture components 32 to the frame of the first furniture component 30, the first furniture component includes a plurality of retainers 64 (FIG. 9) (broadly, at least one retainer for each second furniture component). Each retainer 64 is configured to selectively attach one of the second furniture components 32 to the first furniture component 30. The retainers can also be used to secure one or more of the plurality of legs. In the illustrated embodiment, the first furniture component 30 includes four retainers 64, generally disposed at the corners of the frame 44. The retainers 64 are all identical, so one retainer will now be described herein with the understanding the other retainers have essentially the same construction and operation. The retainer 64 includes a first or longitudinal keeper 66 spaced apart from and facing (e.g., having a surface face) one of the end members 44A, 44B of the frame 44. The longitudinal keeper 66 is attached to (e.g., mounted on) one of the side members 44C, 44D. The longitudinal keeper 66 and the end member 44A, 44B of the frame 44 define (e.g., bound) a receiving space or gap 68 therebetween sized and shaped to receive the frame (e.g., a portion thereof) of the second furniture component 32. The longitudinal keeper 66 is configured to inhibit longitudinal movement of the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 relative to the first furniture component 30. The longitudinal keeper 66 and the end member 44A, 44B engage and brace the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 to inhibit longitudinal movement of the frame of the second furniture component relative to the first furniture component 30. The retainer 64 may also include a second or lateral keeper 70 spaced apart from and facing (e.g., having a surface face) one of the side members 44C, 44D of the frame 44 of the first furniture component 30. The lateral keeper 70 is attached to (e.g., mounted on) one of the end members 44A, 44B. The lateral keeper 70 and the side member 44C, 44D of the frame 44 define (e.g., bound) the gap 68 therebetween. The lateral keeper 70 is configured to inhibit lateral movement of the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 relative to the first furniture component 30. The lateral keeper 70 and the side member 44C, 44D engage and brace the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 to inhibit longitudinal movement of the frame of the second furniture component relative to the first furniture component 30. The retainer 64 also includes a locker 72 configured to secure and lock the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 to the frame of the first furniture component 30. The locker 72 includes a shaft or pin (not shown) that is aligned with a locking opening (not shown) of the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 when the frame of the second furniture component is disposed in the gap 68. The locker 72 also includes a handle or actuator 74 configured to move the shaft into and out of the locking opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the locker 72 is supported by the longitudinal keeper 66 (e.g., the shaft moves or slides within longitudinal keeper). The actuator 74 has a cam end pivotably coupled to the shaft. The cam end of the actuator 74 engages the longitudinal keeper 66 such that when the actuator 74 is rotated in one direction, the shaft moves into the locking opening (e.g., toward and into the gap 68) of the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 to secure the frame to the first furniture component 30, and such that when the actuator is rotated in the opposite (e.g., second) direction, the shaft moves out of the locking opening (e.g., away and out of from the gap) of the frame of the second furniture component thereby permitting the frame to be released from the first furniture component. The shaft may be biased by a spring (not shown) either toward or away from the gap 68. The frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 engages the lip 48 (e.g., the underside thereof), when the second furniture component is coupled to the first furniture component 30 via the retainer 64.
  • An alternative retainer configuration is shown in FIG. 10. To secure each second furniture components 32 to the frame of the first furniture component 30, the first furniture component includes a plurality of retainers 64 (FIG. 10). In FIG. 10, the retainer is shown as a clamp (e.g., a threaded clamp). The retainers can also be used to secure one or more of the plurality of legs. As noted, the first furniture component 30 includes four retainers 64, generally disposed at the corners of the frame 44. The retainers 64 can be identical. The retainer shown in FIG. 10 will now be described herein with the understanding the other retainers have essentially the same construction and operation. The retainer 64 includes an angle bracket 80, which is attached or fastened to frame 44 (e.g., by screws, bolts or welded). The angle bracket 80 defines a threaded opening that threadably receives a clamp 82, which includes a threaded rod 84, knob 86 (broadly, actuator), and clamp face 88. As the clamp 82 is rotated (typically clockwise), the clamp face 88 applies pressure to the frame 44 of second furniture component 32 to inhibit movement of the second furniture component 32 relative to the first furniture component 30. The clamp face of the clamp 82 clamps the frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 against the frame of the first furniture component 30. The frame 44 of the second furniture component 32 engages the lip 48 (e.g., the underside thereof), when the second furniture component is coupled to the first furniture component 30.
  • Having described the disclosure in detail, it will be apparent that modifications and variations are possible without departing from the scope of the disclosure defined in the appended claims. For example, where specific dimensions are given, it is understood these dimensions are exemplary and other dimensions are possible.
  • When introducing elements of the present disclosure or the preferred embodiments(s) thereof, the articles “a”, “an”, “the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising”, “including” and “having” are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.
  • In view of the above, it will be seen that the several objects of the disclosure are achieved and other advantageous results attained.
  • As various changes could be made in the above systems and methods without departing from the scope of the disclosure, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

Claims (20)

1. A furniture kit for creating different items of furniture, the furniture kit comprising:
two first furniture components, each first furniture component having a first top surface;
two second furniture components, each second furniture components having a second top surface of a different size than the first top surface;
a pad; and
a plurality of legs;
wherein one or more of the first furniture components, the second furniture components, the pad and the plurality of legs are reconfigurable and/or arrangeable relative to one another to form one or more of the bed, a couch, a coffee table, an end table or a desk.
2. The furniture kit of claim 1, wherein the pad is arrangeable in a mattress configuration and a couch configuration, wherein in the mattress configuration the pad is forms a mattress and wherein in the couch configuration the pad forms the couch.
3. The furniture kit of claim 2, wherein the pad includes two or more panels movably attached together, wherein in the mattress configuration the two or more panels are arranged side by side and wherein in the couch configuration the two or more panels are in a stacked arrangement.
4. The furniture kit of claim 3, wherein each set of adjacent panels of the two or more panels are connected by a hinge.
5. The furniture kit of claim 2, wherein the two first furniture components and the two second furniture components are arrangeable next to one another to form a frame of the bed, the frame sized and shaped to the support the pad when the pad is in the mattress configuration, wherein the two first furniture components, the two second furniture components and the pad form the bed when the two first furniture components and the two second furniture components are arranged to form the frame and the pad, in the mattress configuration, is supported by the frame.
6. The furniture kit of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of legs are releasably attachable to one of the first furniture components, wherein said one first furniture component and said portion of the plurality of legs form the coffee table when said portion of the plurality of legs is attached to said one first furniture component.
7. The furniture kit of claim 6, wherein the coffee table is a first coffee table, wherein another portion of the plurality of legs are releasably attachable to the other of the first furniture components, wherein said other first furniture component and said another portion of the plurality of legs form a second coffee table when said another portion of the plurality of legs is attached to said other first furniture component.
8. The furniture kit of claim 6, wherein another portion of the plurality of legs are releasably attachable to one of the second furniture components, wherein said one second furniture component and said another portion of the plurality of legs form the end table when said another portion of the plurality of legs is attached to said one second furniture component.
9. The furniture kit of claim 1, wherein at least a portion of the plurality of legs are releasably attachable to one of the second furniture components, wherein said one second furniture component and said portion of the plurality of legs form the end table when said portion of the plurality of legs is attached to said one second furniture component.
10. The furniture kit of claim 1, wherein each second furniture component is releasably attachable to one of the first furniture components, wherein the two second furniture components and said one first furniture component form the desk when the two second furniture components are attached to said one first furniture component.
11. The furniture kit of claim 10, wherein said one first furniture component comprises one or more retainers for attaching the second furniture components to said one first furniture component.
12. The furniture kit of claim 1, further comprising a third furniture component arrangeable in a headboard configuration and a chair configuration, wherein in the headboard configuration the third furniture component forms a headboard of the bed and wherein in the chair configuration the third furniture component forms a char.
13. A furniture kit for creating different items of furniture, the furniture kit comprising:
a first support having a first top surface;
two second supports, each second support having a second top surface of a different size than the first top surface, the two second supports being identical;
a plurality of legs;
wherein at least a portion of the plurality of legs are selectively attachable to the first support to form a coffee table;
wherein at least the portion of the plurality of legs are selectively attachable to one of the second supports to form an end table; and
wherein the two second supports are selectively attachable to the first support to form a desk.
14. The furniture kit of claim 13, wherein the first support includes a frame and a panel supported by the frame, the panel defining at least a portion of the first top surface.
15. The furniture kit of claim 13, wherein the frame includes opposite first and second side members and opposite first and second end members attached to the first and second side members.
16. The furniture kit of claim 13, wherein the first support includes a first retainer configured to selectively attach one of the second supports to the first support and a second retainer configured to selectively attach the other second support to the first support.
17. The furniture kit of claim 16, wherein the first and second retainers each comprise a clamp.
18. The furniture kit of claim 13, wherein each second support includes a frame and a panel releasably attached to the frame.
19. The furniture kit of claim 18, wherein each second support includes a locator configured to engage the panel to position the panel relative to the frame.
20. The furniture kit of claim 18, wherein each panel of the second supports are foldable.
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