WO2003096843A2

WO2003096843A2 - Support frame for furniture

Info

Publication number: WO2003096843A2
Application number: PCT/GB2003/002222
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stephen Atkinson; Howard Ernest Stockdale
Original assignee: Atkinson Vari-Tech Limited
Priority date: 2002-05-22
Filing date: 2003-05-22
Publication date: 2003-11-27
Also published as: AU2003239685A8; WO2003096843A3; AU2003239685A1

Abstract

A furniture support frame (10) comprises a plurality of support frame members (14) which are supported by a number of support members in the form of legs (12). Each leg is adjustable in order to support the furniture support frame (10) at a predetermined height. The furniture support frame is arranged to support an item of furniture, for example a kitchen or workshop unit, thereon. In particular, the present invention is particularly useful with items of furniture which require a level upper surface at a predetermined height. Once the support frame has been constructed and levelled then panels may be quickly and easily mounted thereon in order to construct the items of furniture. The panels may easily be removed and replaced in order to reconfigure the item of furniture. In particular, the present invention provides a modular furniture system which can be quickly and easily adjusted.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN AND RELATING TO FURNITURE

Field of the Invention

5. The present invention relates to a furniture support . frame for an_. item of furniture, an item of _ furniture and a furniture support frame and a method of supporting an item of furniture.

0 The present invention also relates to retaining apparatus for use in furniture, an assembly comprising an item of furniture and • retaining apparatus and a method of retaining parts of furniture.

Furthermore, the present invention relates to concealing apparatus for use with furniture, an assembly comprising an item of furniture and concealing apparatus and a method of concealing spaces adjacent to an item of furniture.

Background to the Invention

Items of furniture and especially kitchen units and cabinets have to be supported at a predetermined height in order for the support surface or worktop to be provided at the correct height and also to be horizontal. Such items of furniture generally comprise legs with adjustable feet provided thereon which are spaced apart by approximately 1 metre in order to support the kitchen unit . Each foot can be screwed into or away from the respective leg in order to support the item of furniture at the selected height. However, each foot has to be adjusted individually in order to support the item of furniture evenly and to thereby provide a horizontal surface at the correct height . Kitchen furniture comprises numerous kitchen units and thereby comprises numerous feet and accordingly, it can take a considerable amount of time to support the kitchen furniture at the correct height and level.- This is usually performed by a qualified tradesman such as a kitchen fitter and is therefore not an efficient use of time and can be relatively expensive.

Items of furniture and, in particular, kitchen units may be provided with integral legs or legs that have been screwed into the main unit. Accordingly, if the units need to be removed or replaced the main unit may need to be unscrewed from these supports. If the units are re- screwed then the structure may have been weakened since the screws may locate within the same holes. Accordingly, the use of screws is not desirable. In addition, the units may require numerous screws which may be difficult to remove. Since kitchen units are generally fitted by skilled tradesman this can result in a loss of time which may also be expensive.

Items of furniture, and, especially kitchen cabinets, have rear flat surfaces which are arranged to locate adjacent to a wall. However, some walls, and in particular walls in older houses, may not be flat or planar. Accordingly, the rear surface of the cabinet will not lie flat against the wall and a gap between the rear of the kitchen cabinet will exist in places . This will be particularly noticeable by looking at the rear edge of the upper work surface. One method of concealing this gap is for a joiner to scribe the contoured surface on to a piece of wood and then to cut the piece of wood to fit within the space to conceal the gap. Accordingly, to conceal the gap is a time consuming operation which requires a skilled joiner and can therefore be relatively expensive .

It is an aim of the present invention to overcome at least 5_. one problem associated .with the prior art whether referred to herein or otherwise.

Summary of the Invention

0 _. According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a furniture support frame for an item of furniture comprising a frame having a plurality of frame members and support members, the furniture support frame further comprising retaining means to retain a part of the item of furniture to the frame wherein the frame members are arranged to extend underneath the item of furniture in . order to support the item of furniture spaced from the ground by the support members at a predetermined height .

Preferably the or each support members are adjustable in order to^' support the item of furniture at a predetermined height .

The furniture support frame may be arranged to support a plurality of furniture units. The support frame may be arranged to support a plurality of furniture units at a substantially identical height and preferably substantially horizontally.

Preferably each frame member is arranged to be supported between two support members . Preferably each frame member is arranged to extend away from the support member at an angle and more preferably perpendicularly relative- to another frame member.

A first frame member may be arranged to extend relative to a _second frame member at a predetermined angle and preferably at a selected predetermined angled increment . The first frame member may extend relative to the second, frame, member at an adjustable angle and preferably at angled increments. The angled increments may be substantially 15°

At least one frame member and preferably each frame member has a retaining slot provided therein. Preferably the retaining slot extends along the longitudinal length of the frame member. Preferably, the retaining slot extends centrally along the longitudinal, length of the frame member.

The retaining slot may provide a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface .

Preferably the first- engagement surface and the second engagement surface extend along an internal surface of the frame member either side of the slot.

Each support member may be arranged to at least partially support a plurality of frame members and may at least partially support 1, 2 or 3 or 4 frame members.

Preferably the furniture support frame comprises securement means to secure the frame member to a respective support member. Preferably the securement means comprises a bracket . Preferably the bracket is arranged to secure the longitudinal end of the frame member to a support, member. Preferably the frame member is arranged to have a bracket secured at each longitudinal-^' end thereof . Preferably, the bracket is releasably secured to the frame member and may be secured by a securement pin or two- securement pins. Preferably, the bracket comprises a support surface which- is arranged to engage with the support member. The support surface may comprise an aperture defined therein through which a part of the support member is arranged to extend. Preferably the support surface is arranged to support the frame member at a predetermined height . Preferably the support surface of a bracket is arranged to support a frame member at an identical predetermined height once inverted. Preferably the support frame comprises a first dimensioned bracket and a second dimensioned bracket which are arranged to be secured to a single support member with the support surfaces offset in order to secure the frame members from the support member at identical heights.

Preferably the support member comprises a support element i order to support the or each bracket at a predetermined height. Preferably a first surface or a lower surface of the support surface of a bracket is arranged to abut the upper surface of the support element . Preferably the support element can be moved along the. support member to support the or each bracket at a predetermined height . Preferably the support element comprises a nut.

The support member may be arranged to support a plurality of brackets or may support 2 or 3 or 4 brackets . The support element may be arranged to^" directly support the lowest bracket and then for subsequent higher brackets to be supported on each other.

The engaging surfaces of the brackets may comprise praised) splines and preferably comprise splines angularly arranged at increments. The spilhes may (selectively) prevent or inhibit movement and preferably rotation of one bracket (or frame member) relative to another.

Preferably the furniture support frame comprises engagement means to retain the item of furniture to the frame . The engagement means may comprise an engagement slot defined along the frame members to enable retaining means of the item of furniture to be engaged at a number of positions along the engagement slot. Preferably the engagement slot is arranged, in use, for engaging push fit retaining apparatus .

Preferably the furniture support frame is arranged, ' in use, to solely support the item of furniture.

Preferably the item of furniture comprises a kitchen unit or a kitchen cabinet or more preferably a plurality or kitchen units or kitchen cabinets .

The support member may comprise a sleeve.

The support member may comprise a support bolt which can be extended out of or retracted into the sleeve.

The support member may comprise a_. foot in order to support the support member on the ground or on a floor. The foot may comprise engagement means to engage the ground or floor. The engagement means may comprise an aperture or two apertures through which an engagement element can project therethrough to engage . the ground or -floor. The or ..each engagement element may comprise a screw.

The length of the frame member may be greater than 1 metre and preferably is greater than two metres .and more preferably is greater than 2.75 metres. The length of the frame member may be substantially 3 metres . The length of the frame member may be substantially 6 metres.

Preferably the support members are arranged, in use, to be spaced from adjacent support members by a distance greater than 1 metre and more preferably by greater than 2 metres. Adjacent support member may be arranged to be spaced by up to 3 metres and may be arranged to be spaced by up to 6 metres.

The furniture support frame may comprise auxiliary support members. The auxiliary support members may be arranged to locate underneath a part of the frame member. The auxiliary support member may be arranged to engage with a lower surface of the frame member. The height of the auxiliary support member may be adjustable. The auxiliary support member may be arranged to reinforce the support of the frame members once the frame members are load bearing. The auxiliary support members may be arranged to.locate between support members. Preferably, the frame members comprise a substantially rigid material . Preferably the frame members comprise aluminiu .

_. The frame member may be linear. The frame member may be arcuate.

Preferably the frame members comprise an extruded member. Preferably the frame member comprises an extruded aluminium.

According to a second aspect of the present invention there is provided an assembly comprising an item of furniture and a furniture support frame for an item of furniture, the furniture support frame being in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention.

Preferably the item of furniture comprises a furniture unit. The item of furniture may comprise an office furniture unit or a workshop furniture unit or a kitchen furniture unit .

Preferably the item of furniture is "arranged, in use, to have a level work surface at a predetermined height.

Adjacent furniture units may be arranged to be separated by a single partition wall. The item of furniture may comprise at least one panel The or each panel may be secured to the furniture support frame by releasable securement means and . preferably by quick release securement means.

Preferably the item of furniture is reconfigurable from a first item of furniture to a second item of furniture. Preferably the item of furniture is . reconfigurable to provide a plurality of different items of furniture.

Preferably the assembly comprises top rails . Preferably the top rails may have releasable panel (s) secured, thereto.

The assembly may provide a surface (for example work surface) which may extend substantially linearly or at an angle which may provide different shapes and/or sized surface. Preferably the shape and/or size of the surface is adjustable.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a method of supporting an item of furniture comprising supporting the item of furniture on a furniture support frame, the furniture support frame being in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention.

Preferably the method comprises solely supporting the item of furniture on the furniture support frame.

Preferably the method comprises retaining the item of ^■ furniture to the support with retaining apparatus . Preferably the method comprises retaining the item of furniture to the support with push fit retaining apparatus .

The method may comprise adjusting the height of the furniture support frame.

The method may comprise adjusting the length of the frame member by adjusting the height of the support member.

The method may comprise adjusting the height of a first support member and placing levelling means on a frame member being supported by a first support member and then adjusting the height of a second support member in order for an upper support surface of the frame member to be level . The levelling means may comprise a spirit level .

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided push fit retaining apparatus for use in furniture for retaining a first part of an item of furniture to a second part of an item of furniture, the retaining apparatus comprising a first engagement flange provided on a first engagement member and a second engagement flange provided on a second engagement member, the first engagement flange being movable relative to the second engagement flange between a first position and a second position wherein the first engagement flange is spaced from the second engagement flange by a greater distance in the second position relative to the first position. Preferably the apparatus comprises snap fit retaining apparatus .

Preferably, the first engagement member and the second engagement member are arranged to move from a first position to a second position. Preferably, the engagement flanges are located towards a lower end of the respective engagement member.

Preferably the engagement members are arranged to pivot or flex outwardly from the first position to the second position.

Preferably the first engagement member and the second engagement member are biased such that the first engagement flange and the second engagement flange are biased towards the first position. Preferably the first engagement member and the second engagement member are arranged to be urged outwardly by an actuating element such that the first engagement flange and second engagement flange are in the second position.

Preferably the first engagement flange and second engagement flange are in the second position in order to secure a first part of an item of furniture to a second part of an item of furniture .

Preferably the engagement flanges are arranged to be inserted through a retaining aperture provided on the first part of the item of furniture and into a retaining void defined in the second part of the item of furniture and the engagement flanges may be arranged to move outwardly whilst in the retaining void in order to engage a retaining surface (s) to prevent the retaining apparatus from being simply pulled out from the retaining void through the retaining aperture.

Preferably the first part of the item of furniture comprises _ a part of a kitchen unit or kitchen cabinet. Preferably the first part of the item of furniture comprises ^' a base panel of a kitchen unit or kitchen cabinet .

Preferably the second part of the item of furniture comprises a support track and more preferably an adjustable support track for a kitchen cabinet.

Preferably the first and second engagement members comprise a resilient material.

Preferably the engagement members are arranged, in use, to be inserted into a retaining void.

Preferably the engagement members are arranged to move from the first position to the second position in order for the engagement flanges to engage with a retaining surface (s) provided by the second part of the item of furniture.

Preferably each engagement member comprises a ramped portion. Preferably each ramped portion is arranged to co-operate with a retaining aperture and/or an edge of a retaining surface in order to move the engagement flanges towards the first position. The retaining aperture may be provided by the first part of the item of furniture and/or the second part of the item of furniture . The retaining surface may be provided by the second part of the item of furniture.

Preferably, in use, at least a part of the apparatus is inserted into a retaining void in order to move the engagement flanges towards each other . and further insertion causes the engagement flanges to move away from each other.

Preferably, in use, the retaining apparatus is inserted into a retaining passageway in order to move the engagement members towards the first position and then towards the second position.

Preferably the retaining apparatus is arranged to retain the first part of the item of furniture to the second part of the item of furniture through a push fit or a snap fit.

The first engagement member and the second engagement member may extend downwardly from a head portion. The first engagement member and the second engagement member may extend downwardly and generally towards each other from the head portion. Preferably the first engagement' member and the second engagement member may define a space therebetween. Preferably the space comprises a downwardly tapered passageway.

The retaining apparatus may comprise an actuating element and a securement element. The first, and second, engagement member may be provided on the securement element. The actuating element may be arranged to move the first engagement flange and the second engagement flange from the first position to the second position.

The actuating element may comprise an actuating portion._ Preferably the actuating portion is arranged to be inserted between the first retaining portion and the second retaining portion to move the first engagement flange relative to the second engagement flange.

The actuating portion may be cylindrical.

The actuating portion may comprise an elliptical cross-section. Rotation of the actuating portion may be arranged to vary the distance between the first engagement flange and the second engagement flange.

Preferably the retaining apparatus comprises a head portion which is visible, in use. Preferably, the head portion is circular. Preferably the head portion is rotatable whilst the retaining apparatus is secured in position without effecting the securement of the retaining apparatus. The head portion of the retaining apparatus may be arranged to display information thereon. Accordingly, the head portion may be rotated in order to display the information in a selected orientation.

The ^"securement element may comprise a cavity for housing the actuating element and, in particular, may house the head of the actuating element .

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention there is provided an assembly comprising an item of furniture and retaining apparatus, the retaining apparatus being in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention.

Preferably the first part of the item of furniture 5 comprises a part of a kitchen unit or kitchen cabinet. Preferably the first _ part of the item of furniture comprises a base panel of a kitchen unit or kitchen cabinet .

L0 Preferably the second part of .the item of furniture comprises a support track and more preferably an adjustable support track for a kitchen cabinet.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention L5 there is provided a method of retaining a first part of an item of furniture to a second part of an item of furniture comprising inserting at least a part of retaining apparatus through a passageway provided in the first and second parts and moving engagement flanges from a first 0 position to a second position in which the engagement flanges are spaced further apart in the second position and engage with a retaining surface of the second part in order to retain the first part to the second part .

5 The method may comprise inserting an actuating portion between the first engagement flange and the second engagement flange in order to move the first engagement flange relatively away from the second engagement flange .

0 Preferably the method comprises retaining a kitchen cabinet to a support base or support track. The method may comprise inserting a part of an actuating element into a passageway provided by a securement element .

Preferably the method comprises snap fitting the retaining apparatus in order to secure the first part of the furniture to the second part of the item of furniture.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention there is provided concealing apparatus comprising a retaining surface which is arranged, in use, to retain the concealing apparatus to a surface, the concealing apparatus further comprising a concealing surface which projects outwardly from the retaining surface, wherein the concealing apparatus comprises a deformable material.

Preferably the concealing apparatus comprises aluminium. The concealing apparatus may comprise a plastics.

The concealing apparatus may comprise a resilient material .

Preferably the concealing surface projects outwardly from the upper extent of the retaining surface.

Preferably the concealing surface is arcuate.

Preferably the arcuate surface extends outwardly and downwardly from the retaining surface to an abutment edge.

Preferably the concealing apparatus comprises a support surface. Preferably the support surface projects 1.7

outwardly from the retaining surface and preferably at a location below the concealing surface. Preferably the support surface projects outwardly from the retaining surface by a distance greater than the distance that the concealing surface projects outwardly from the retaining surface .

Preferably the concealing surface and the support surface define a void therebetween. Preferably, in use, a part of an item of furniture is arranged to locate within the void.

Preferably the concealing apparatus comprises an elongate member.

Preferably the concealing apparatus comprises an extruded member.

Preferably the retaining surface comprises retaining means to retain the concealing apparatus to a surface.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided an assembly comprising an item Of furniture and concealing apparatus in accordance with the first aspect of the present invention.

Preferably the item of furniture comprises kitchen furniture. The item of furniture may comprise a kitchen unit or cabinet and may further comprise a work surface.

Preferably the concealing apparatus comprises a mouth region defined between an abutment edge of the concealing surface and a support surface. Preferably the width of the mouth region substantially corresponds to the width of the work surface .

According to a ninth aspect of the present ^' invention. there is provided a method of concealing a space between a surface and an item of furniture comprising retaining concealing apparatus to the surface and deforming the concealing apparatus to correspond with the contours ^• of the surface and locating the item of furniture adjacent to the surface in order for a rear edge of the item of furniture to locate underneath a concealing surface of the concealing apparatus.

Preferably the method comprises supporting the rear edge of a part of the item of furniture on a support surface provided by the concealing apparatus.

Brief Description of the Drawings

The present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings that follow, in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view of an embodiment of support frame.

Figure 2 is a partial cut-away perspective view of an embodiment of a furniture support frame .

Figure 3. is an exploded view of part of an embodiment of a furniture support frame . Figure 4 is a cross section of an embodiment of a furniture support frame.

Figure 5 is a cross-section schematic, view of four brackets secured to ^'_a support member.

Figure 6 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a frame member of a furniture support frame .

Figure 7 is a cross section of an embodiment of a frame member of a furniture support frame.

Figure 8 is an exploded view of an embodiment of a furniture support frame and part of an item of furniture.

Figure 9a - 9k are schematic plan views of layouts of a furniture support frame.

Figure 10 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a support bracket having indicator means provided thereon.

Figure 11 is a perspective view of two support brackets having indicator means provided thereon.

Figure 12 is a perspective view of two support brackets and a connecting member having indicator means provided thereon.

Figure .13 is a perspective view of three support brackets having indicator means provided thereon. Figure 14 is a perspective view of four support brackets having indicator means provided thereon.

Figure 15 is an exploded view of an embodiment of retaining apparatus.

Figure 16 is a cross-section of. an embodiment of retaining apparatus retaining a first part of an item of furniture to a second part of an item of furniture.

Figure 17 is a plan view of an embodiment of retaining apparatus retaining a first part of an item of furniture to a second part of an item of furniture.

Figure 18 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a securement element .

Figure 19 is a cross-sectional perspective view of an embodiment of an actuating element and a securement element.

Figure 20 is a perspective view of another embodiment of retaining apparatus .

Figure 21 is a side view of an embodiment of concealing apparatus .

Figure 22 is a side perspective view of part of an embodiment of concealing apparatus .

Figure 23 is a plan view of kitchen units located adjacent to a wall. Figure 24 is a plan view of kitchen units located adjacent to a wall with an embodiment of concealing apparatus retained thereto .

- Figure 25 is a side view of ^• an embodiment of concealing apparatus with part <->f a work surface located therein.

Figure 26 is a side view of an embodiment of concealing apparatus with part of a work surface located therein.

Description of the Preferred Embodiments

The present invention is based on an aluminium, extruded track profiles which provides a strong platform for the furniture structure. The track system is provided in pre- measured sections. Interconnection of the track profiles form structural frames of various section configurations using quick fix brackets preformed to enable concise^* angle arrangements. Levelling and positioning is easily achieved over long sections using the clip on feet and in which the simple rotation of the supporting leg at each corner to achieves a level platform.

Having secured the track to the floor, the plinth is easily clipped in place before the furniture construction has begun. The system may incorporate MDF base panels which are positioned in a continuous line along the track and secured using specifically designed plug in clips. An advantage of the present invention is that the track system is built on as opposed to bolted to. The resulting assemblies are stronger that prior art methods of construction with the added bonus of being a far more efficient method of installation.

Once the base has been constructed dividers and end panels are positioned and top rails are cam locked in. place which forms a very rigid assembly without the back panels being fitted allowing unrestricted access to services. The system provides a very fast method of installation compared to prior art systems.

The furniture may comprise pre-cut work tops which are fitted directly onto top rails and secured using small stepped clamps which are specifically designed to allow expansion and contraction of natural materials.

The system may use doors (for example MDF doors) which are suspended using a triple, heavy duty, dye cast knuckle hinge system. These are bolted through the relevant panels from the opposite face and fixed with ny-lock locking nuts in order to provide an extremely durable and tamper-free fixing.

The flexibility of the present invention has a major advantage of allowing both back and dividing panels to be removed or replaced for access or re-configuration of the furniture according to varying requirements. This can be done without a need for any other form of disassembly, unlike prior art furniture that would need totally dismantling and then rebuilding.

Drawers may be used which are equally sturdy in construction with all sides and draw runners made from solid steel for extra strength. The drawer front has fixing brackets of a lockable cam design to ensure the drawer fronts cannot slide down or come loose.

The present invention can be used for many functions including personal lockers, school rooms, laboratories, commercial domestic kitchens or wherever any type of fitted furniture is required.

In addition, special requirements such as glass or marble work surfaces or an alternative finish for the doors etc can easily be used. The present invention takes a fraction of the time to fit and commission as compared to prior art methods .

As shown in Figure 1 and Figure 2, an embodiment of a furniture support frame 10 comprises a plurality of support frame members 14 which are supported by a number of support members in the form of legs 12. Each leg 12 is adjustable in order to support the furniture support frame

10 at a predetermined height. The furniture support frame is arranged to support an item of furniture thereon. The item of furniture may comprise a number of furniture units for example, kitchen units, workshop units, office units etc. The present invention is particularly useful with items of furniture which require a level upper surface at a predetermined height .

The furniture support frame 10 comprises a number of frame members 14 or track members which extend between adjacent adjustable legs 12. Each frame member 14 comprises a longitudinal engagement slot 22 extending centrally along the length of the frame member 14 between adjacent adjustable legs 12. The distance between each adjustable leg 12 may be in the region of 3 metres or may be in the region of 6 metres . Prior art systems require adjustable legs spaced at approximately 1 metre intervals. This distance is relatively small due to the prior art legs being weight bearing whilst being adjusted. The present invention does not have to be weight bearing whilst being adjusted and, therefore, the system requires less adjustable legs 12 and is therefore quicker and easier to set up. The system may use auxiliary -supports 90 once set at a predetermined level height in order to subsequently help to support the weight of the item of furniture. Such auxiliary supports 90 will be described later.

As further shown in Figures 1 to 4 each leg 12 comprises a foot 18 which is arranged, in use, to be supported on the ground or on the floor. The foot 18 comprises an extending portion having one or two securement apertures 19 defined therethrough. In use, the foot 18 can be secured to the ground by a retaining member (s) extending through the securement apertures 19. This therefore improves the stability of the item of furniture and prevents the item of furniture being moved unintentionally once installed. The or each foot 18 is arranged to project inwardly underneath the item of furniture or underneath the frame member 14.

Each leg 12 has a sleeve member 24 extending upwardly from the foot 18. Preferably the foot 18 is simply secured to the sleeve member 24 by an insert 25 or lug which projects upwardly into the sleeve member 24 and is retained therein through an interference fit . Alternatively, other suitable retaining means could be used, for example, the foot could be retained in the sleeve member 24 by a circlip. The sleeve member is rotatable relative to the foot and without causing the sleeve member to move vertically relative thereto. The sleeve member 24 has an inner passageway 27 providing a passageway to co-operate with a support bolt 20. The support bolt 20 comprises a threaded shaft which can be screwed into or out of the passageway 27 in order for the support bolt 20 to extend upwardly from the sleeve member 24 by an adjustable amount.

In order to move the threaded bolt 20 into or out of the sleeve member 24, the sleeve member 24 is rotated. This rotation thereby causes the threaded bolt 20 to move vertically relative to the sleeve member 24. Furthermore, since the sleeve member 24 is rotated, there is no relative rotational movement between the threaded shaft and the support brackets. Accordingly, the height adjustment is simple and easy to perform whilst the apparatus is fully assembled.

The leg 12 comprises a half nut 26 secured at the upper end of the sleeve member 24. The nut 26 co-operates with the support bolt 20 in order for the nut 20 to be spaced from the upper extent of the sleeve member by an adjustable amount if required. The half nut 26 can be screwed up and down the threaded shaft of the support bolt 20 by an adjustable amount. The upper surface of the half nut 26 provides a support surface for supporting mounting brackets 16, 17 thereon in order to secure the frame members 12 to the support members 14. The support bolt 20 is arranged to project through an aperture 35, 37 defined in a support surface of the brackets. The half nut 26 is initially tightened up to the threaded shaft of the support bolt 20 in order to clamp the support surfaces 34, 36 between the half nut and the head of the support bolt 20. As the sleeve member 24 is rotated both the half nut 26 and the support bolt will simultaneously move up or down vertically relative to the sleeve member 24 without any further adjustment required.

The retaining brackets 16, 17 are arranged to retain the frame members 14 to the support members 12. Each bracket 16, 17 is arranged to retain each frame member 14 at the same height relative to the support member 14.

The apparatus 10 may comprises two different dimensioned brackets 16, 17 and enables four brackets 16, 17 (two of each different bracket) to be supported by a single support bolt 20 in order to support four frame members 14 at identical heights. The frame members 14 are angled relative to each other and may be arranged to extend perpendicularly from the support member 12. The first bracket 16 is arranged such that the support pin 28 or support pins 28 extend along the midline 44 of the upper face of the support surface 34 of the support bracket 16. Accordingly, once inverted two of these support brackets 16 will be able to be supported by a single support bolt 20 such that the support pins 28 are at identical heights. The brackets 16, 17 provide apertures 30 for the support pins 28 in order to support pins 28 to project therethrough and into passageways 32 provided in the frame members 14. The support pins 28 comprise screws which can be removed, if required, for example for repairs or replacements . The support surface 36 of the second bracket 17 is arranged to be offset from the midline of the support pins 28 by a distance equal to the thickness of the support surface 34. Again, once inverted this support bracket 17 will provide support pins 28 at the same height as a non- inverted bracket 17. Accordingly, four brackets, an inverted and non-inverted first dimensioned bracket 16 and an inverted and non-inverted second dimensioned bracket 17 can all simultaneously be supported on a single support bolt 20 with all the support pins 28 at identical heights, as shown in Figure 5. Each bracket 16,17 may extend perpendicularly relative to the adjacent bracket.16, 17. The support bolt could be used to support one, two, three, four or more support brackets and hence f ame members .

As further shown in Figure 5, a first face 40 (the lower face when not inverted) of the support surface 36 of the lowermost bracket abuts and is supported on the upper face 42 of the half nut 26. The upper face of the support surface 36 of the lowermost bracket 17 supports the second bracket 16 and specifically abuts the second surface (or lower surface when not inverted) of the support bracket 16. The upper surface (or first surface) of the second bracket 16 then supports the first surface (or upper surface when not inverted) of the third bracket 16' when is an inverted second bracket 16. Finally, a fourth bracket 17' which is an inverted first bracket 17 is supported by the support surface 34' of the third bracket 16'. All of the brackets 16, 16' 17, 17' are thereby arranged for the support pins 28 of the respective bracket to be aligned with the midline of the support surfaces of the brackets between the second and third brackets to^' support four frame members 14 at .identical heights .

As shown in Figures 10 to 14, the apparatus may comprise indication means or alignment means or relative angular retaining means in order to indicate the angle that the frame members 14 extend outwardly from the support member 12 and to retain the relative angle therebetween. For example, the support brackets 16, ^"17 may comprise splines 150 regularly placed at 15° intervals. Accordingly, the support brackets 16, 17 can be easily rotated relative to each other around the support bolt 20 to extend at a predetermined angle without the use of further equipment. In particular, 15° intervals enable the frame members to be easily arranged to extend at 45°, 60° and 90° which may frequently be used with the apparatus. The splines 150 of one support bracket engage with the splines of further brackets. The brackets 16, 17 may have splines 150 defined on an upper surface and a lower surface to engage an upper and lower bracket. The splines 150 may be recessed into the support bracket or may be raised splines. In one embodiment, the splines 150 may be recessed and a connecting spline member 152 is inserted between the two recessed splines. Accordingly, the connecting spline member 152 may be a disc having splines on each side thereof. Furthermore, the upper and lower support brackets in the arrangement may not require spline members on both sides thereof since these brackets only locate adjacent to a single other support bracket .

The furniture support frames may be arranged to provide a base for furniture having different shapes and easily changed shapes, example of which are shown in Figures 9a-

9k. In particular, the support brackets with splines enable the frame members 14 to be arranged at adjustable angles to each other. For example, an octagonal (See Figure 9k) arrangement of desk surfaces . If such an arrangement needs to be changed or enlarged or reduced, for example, different sized frame members could be used.

In prior art systems, bespoke furniture may be needed which is expensive and, for example, additional sections of desk surfaces may be required to fill gaps whereas the present modular system can be easily reconfigured without such additional expense. The use of splines at angled increments is also advantageous over prior art bespoke systems since an error whilst constructing such a system may increase as more desks are added, for example, a fitting which is few degrees out may be multiplied (for example in the octagonal arrangement, see Figure 9k) as more desks are added which may result in a significant error at the final desk. Accordingly, the present invention provides a variable modular furniture system which can be quickly and easily changed. The system can also provide non-linear arrangement, for example oscillating patterns or wavey patterns which can also be easily constructed using the modular system.

In addition, the furniture system comprises a modular system which enables the furniture to be quickly and easily reconfigured. The system incorporates top extruded rails which enables side panels, dividers, top panels and bottom panels to be quickly and easily replaced, for example, by using quick clips. For example, a unit can be quickly and easily reconfigured from a cupboard to a unit. Accordingly, the present invention effectively provides a modular furniture system which can be quickly and easily changed without specialist tools or workmen.

In the preferred embodiment, the first support bracket 16 is provided with recessed splines on either side thereof. The second support bracket 17 is provided with one^' side of raised ^"splines and no splines on the other side^' thereof. Accordingly, the raised splines of the lower second support bracket 17 engage with the recessed splines of the lower first support bracket 16. A connecting spline member 152 is then located between the two recessed spline areas of the adjacent first support bracket 16, 16'. Finally, the recessed splines' of the inverted upper first support bracket 16 engage with the raised splines of the inverted upper second support bracket 17' . Accordingly, all the support brackets can be quickly and easily angularly adjusted.

The indicator means or alignment means may alternatively be provided by the support bolt 20.

The support pins 28 comprise screws which are arranged to be engaged in passageways 32 provided in the frame members .

The frame members 14 are initially connected to the adjustable support members 12. The height of each of the adjustable support members 12' can then be adjusted. Since the height of the item of furniture will be known the ^' heights of the frame . members 14 can be calculated and set accordingly. The frame members 14 are also arranged to be horizontal and can be adjusted with the use of a spirit level or other suitable levelling means, if necessary. Once the height of one of the support members 12 is set all of the other support members can be quickly and easily set by placing a spirit level on a frame member 14 extending from the support member 12 and adjusting the other support member 12 supporting the frame member 14 until the spirit level or other levelling devices indicate that the frame member is horizontal . This can be simply repeated until all of the support members, are at identical heights, and all of the frame members 14 are level .

If the item of furniture to be supported on the frame members 14 is relatively heavy, auxiliary support members

90 may be required along the length of the frame member

14, as shown in Figure 4. The auxiliary support member 90 comprises a foot 92 and a sleeve 94 in accordance with the adjustable support members 12. However, the auxiliary support 90 does not include a nut since it does not need to support a bracket thereon and therefore, the support bolt 96 simply projects upwardly from the sleeve 94. The head 98 of the support bolt 96 is arranged to locate within a lower slot 100 provided in the lower surface of. the frame member 14. The bolt 96 is arranged to support the frame member 14 at the same height as the adjustable supports 12. Again, this can be quickly and easily achieved using a spirit level or other suitable levelling means. Accordingly, the auxiliary supports 90 do not require any substantial set up and adjustments and,

^• therefore, greatly reduce the setting up time.

As shown in Figure 6 and Figure 7 the frame members 14 comprise extruded profiled members of a suitably rigid material which will not sag significantly under its own weight. Hence, a frame member can be adjusted for height and levelled easily and accurately. The frame members may comprise aluminium extrusions .

Once all the supports 12 and auxiliary support 90 are arranged, the item of furniture is simply located on top of the frame members 14 as shown in Figure 8. The item of furniture comprises engagement apertures 110 on the lower surface thereof. Retaining apparatus 210 is arranged to project through the retaining apertures 110 in order to secure the item of furniture to the frame members 14. The retaining apparatus 210 comprises push fit connectors which can be engaged in the engagement track 22. Accordingly, if the furniture needs to be dismantled then the item of furniture can be quickly and easily removed from the support base without effecting the strength of re-assembling the furniture. The retaining apparatus 210 comprises two engagement portions with engagement flanges which, once located within the slot 22 are urged to spread outwards or move apart to engage the engagement surfaces 114, 116 provided either side of the slot.

The item of furniture may be constructed from the frame and may comprise a number of units, for example kitchen units.

The units do not require separate walls and this would provide a double partitioned wall. A single partition or panel 130 can simply be placed between the units and engaged with the base 132 of each unit in order to provide more storage space, and to save on materials.

The frame members may be 3 metres or even 6 metres in length and according, the support member of a frame member may similarly be located whether 3 metres or 6 metres apart. However, depending upon the item of furniture to be supported, auxiliary support may be required to provide adequate support .

As shown in Figures 9a - 9i each support member may support one, two three or four or more frame members. The frame members may extend at an angle relative to each other and do not have to extend perpendicularly relative to each other. In addition, the frame members do not have to be linear and may be arcuate. Furthermore, one or more of the frame members may be arranged to extend from a first item of furniture to a second item of furniture without supporting anything thereon. This enables the separate items of furniture to be levelled relative to each other as previously described. In addition, the furniture support frame 10 may comprise a single frame member and a single leg 12 supporting one end of. the frame member. The other end of the frame member may be secured to the wall with the outer end supported by the leg 12.

The present invention provides retaining apparatus 210 to retain a first part of any item of furniture to a second part of an item of furniture. Specifically the push fit retaining apparatus is arranged to retain a kitchen cabinet to a support track, as shown in Figure 16. The base 250 of the kitchen unit has a retaining aperture 260 defined therethrough.

The base track 14 provides a slot 258 in order for a part of the retaining apparatus 210 to locate and to thereby retain the base track 14 to the kitchen unit 250. The slot 258 is provided with a retaining surface 254, 256 at either side thereof.

In use, at least a part of the retaining apparatus 210 5_. is inserted through the retaining aperture 260 and into the retaining slot 258 provided in the support • tracks 14. The retaining apparatus 210 comprises engagement flanges 217, 219 which are movable relative to each other. Accordingly, the engagement flanges 217, 219 are initially 0 in a first position or are moved toward each other to a first position in order to pass through the retaining aperture 260 and into the retaining slot 258. The engagement flanges 217, 219 then move away from each other whilst located in the retaining slot 258 or void provided in the track 14 and the engagement flanges 217, 219 engage with the retaining surfaces 254, 256 of the track 14 to prevent the retaining apparatus 210 from simply being pulled out of engagement, with the retaining slot 258.

The engagement flanges 217, 219 may either be moved outwardly by actuating means to engage or may automatically move into engagement due to biasing means or partly due to both.

As shown in Figures 15 to 19, the present invention comprises a first embodiment in which the engagement flanges 217, 219 are biased to the first position such that a separating tool or actuating means is required to move the engagement flanges 217, 219 away from each other in order to engage with the retaining surfaces 254, 256. In a second embodiment as shown in Figure 20 the engagement flanges 217, 219 may be biased to the second position and are moved towards each other whilst being inserted through the aperture 260 into the void 258 provided in the track 14 and then automatically flex away from each other and snap fit outwardly to engage with the retaining surfaces 254, 256. However, both embodiments provide push -fit retaining apparatus 210 for retaining a kitchen cabinet 250 or kitchen unit to a base track 14 support system. _.The base track supports 14 provide a frame to support the kitchen unit and the retaining apparatus thereby provides simple apparatus to locate the kitchen unit in place and. horizontally aligned both quickly and easy. In addition, the kitchen unit can be quickly and easily removed for refitting or replacing.

As shown in Figures 15 to 19, the retaining apparatus 210 comprises an actuating element 212 and a securement element 214. The securement element 214 comprises a securement means in the form of a first retaining portion or first engagement member 216 and a second retaining portion or second engagement member 218. In alternative embodiments, the securement means may comprise three or more engagement members and hence three or more engagement flanges.. The first and second engagement members 216, 218 comprise a resilient material. The first engagement member 216 has an engagement flange 217 defined thereon. Similarly, the second engagement member 218 has an engagement flange 219 defined thereon. The engagement flanges 217, 219 are defined on the outer surface of the respective engagement member 216, 218. In use, the engagement flanges 217, 219 are arranged to engage a retaining surfaces 254, 256 of a part of an item of furniture in order to retain a first part of an item of furniture 250 to a second part of an item of furniture 14. Each engagement member 216, 218 has a ramped portion 221, 223 defined at the lower extent thereof. The ramp portion 221, 223 extends from the lower extent up to the respective engagement flange 217, 219. The ramped portions 221, 223 are arranged to co-operate with a part of the retaining passageway and preferably causes the engagement portions 216, 218 to be gradually moved inwardly as the engagement portions are inserted into the retaining passageway. The engagement portions 216, 218 are then arranged to move outwardly once the engagement flanges 217, 219 have passed over the edges of the retaining surface 254, 256. The retaining passageway is provided by a retaining aperture 260 defined in the first part of the item of furniture and the slot 258 provide in the second part of the item of furniture.

The actuating element 212 comprises an actuating portion 222 and a head portion 224.

The first engagement member 216 is spaced from the second engagement 218 and define an engagement passageway 220 therebetween. In use, the actuating portion 222 is inserted into the engagement passageway 220 defined between the first engagement member 216 and the second engagement member 218 in order to move the first engagement member 216 relatively away from the second engagement member 218. Accordingly, at least a part of the width of the actuating portion 222 is greater than the width of the engagement passageway 220. The securement element comprises an aperture 226 defined on the upper face thereof in order to enable the actuating portion 222 to be inserted into the engagement passageway 220. In the preferred embodiment, the engagement passageway 220 is tapered inwardly as the engagement passageway 220 extends downwardly. The width of the upper region of the engagement passageway 220 is greater than the width of the actuating portion 222 but gradually tapers inwardly such that a part of the width of the engagement passageway 220 is less than the width of part of the actuating portion 222. In the preferred embodiment, the actuating portion 222 has a substantially constant width. Accordingly, the tapered engagement passageway 220 enables the actuating portion 222 to be easily located therein and further insertion of the actuating portion 222 gradually moves the engagement portions 216, 218 away from each other and thereby causes the engagement flanges 217, 219 to engage the retaining surfaces 254, 256 of the second part of the item of furniture.

In an alternative embodiment the cross-section of the actuating portion 222 is elliptical. The minimum cross- section of the elipse does not cause the engagement portions 216, 218 to separate by a distance great enough to cause the engagement flanges 217, 219 to engage the retaining surfaces 254, 256. However, ^• the diameter of the elipse once rotated from the minimum cross-section is great enough to cause engagement. Therefore, the actuating portion 222 may be inserted and rotated to cause engagement and to enable disengagement. The actuating portion 222 can be rotated until the engagement flanges 217, 219 no longer engage the retaining surfaces 254, 256 to enable both the actuating element 212 and the securement element 214 to be removed. Accordingly, the head of the actuating element may comprise engagement means to enable a tool to engage the actuating element and to thereby rotate the actuating element. For example, the head of the actuating element may comprise a recess for receiving an alien key.

Each engagement portion 216, 218 has an engagement flange 217, 219 on the outer surface thereof. The engagement flanges 217, 219 comprise ramped portions 221, 223 and engagement surfaces 217, 219. In use, the edges of the retaining passageway and in particular the edges of the retaining surfaces 254, 256 are arranged to slide relatively up each ramped portion 221, 223 and for the edges of the retaining surfaces 254, 256 to be engaged by each engagement flange 217, 219. Accordingly, this provides a push fit to retain a first part of an item of furniture to a second part of an item of furniture.

The securement element comprises a recess 228 in order to house the head 224 of the actuating element 212. This maintains a flush fitting which may be level with the internal lower surface of the kitchen unit.

The head of the actuating element 224 is circular and the recess 228 is similarly circular. In addition, in the preferred embodiment, the actuating portion 222 is substantially cylindrical. Accordingly, even once inserted and engaged, the actuating element can be rotated without effecting the engagement of the retaining apparatus 210 since the retaining flanges 217, 219 will still be located in the second engaged position. The head of the actuating element 212 is visible from inside the kitchen unit and may be used to display information thereon, for example the name of the manufacturer or other advertising information. In use, the base frame 14 is secured to the floor at a correct level height. The kitchen unit is then supported on the base frame with the retaining apertures 260 aligned with the. slots 258 provided in the base frame members 14. The engagement portions 216, 218 are inserted into the retaining passageway 220 until the engagement surfaces 217, 219 of the engagement flanges 217, 219 locate below the retaining surfaces 254, 256 of the slot 258. The actuating portion 222 of the actuating element is then inserted into the engagement passageway to move the engagement flanges away from each other and to engage with the retaining surfaces 254, 256. The retaining apparatus 210 may be located in a number of places in order to securely retain the kitchen unit to the base .

As shown in Figure 21 and Figure 22, concealing apparatus 310 comprises an elongate member having a retaining surface 312 and a concealing surface 314 in order to conceal a gap between a part of an item of furniture and a surface. The retaining surface 312 comprises retaining means in order for the concealing apparatus 310 to be retained to a surface and, in particular, to a wall. The retaining means comprises retaining apertures 315 in order to secure the concealing apparatus 310 to a wall. The apertures 315 are spaced along the longitudinal length of the retaining surface 312.

The concealing apparatus 310 comprises a deformable material and preferably comprises a resilient material.

The apparatus 310 may be manually deformable in order to be secured to a uneven surface with the retaining surface 312 substantially following the contours of the uneven wall. The concealing apparatus 310 preferably comprises aluminium. The concealing apparatus may substantially correspond to the contour of the uneven walls as the retaining means retains the concealing apparatus 310 to the uneven wall.

The retaining apertures 315 are provided regularly along the longitudinal length of the concealing apparatus 310 in order for the concealing apparatus 310 to form the uneven shape. For example, if insufficient retaining means are provided then the concealing apparatus 310 may not effectively form the shape of the uneven wall .

The concealing surface 314 projects outwardly from the retaining surface 312. The concealing surface 314 is arranged to visually conceal anything located there below. The concealing surface 314 is arcuate and extends outwardly and downwardly from the upper extent of the retaining surface. The concealing surface 314 has an abutment edge 318 at the lower extent thereof.

The concealing apparatus 10 further comprises a support surface 316. The support surface projects outwardly from the retaining surface 312 at a location below the concealing surface 314. The support surface is arranged, in use, to support a supply surface of an item of furniture, for example the work surface of kitchen units. The support surface 316 is arranged to be substantially horizontal, in use, and projects perpendicularly from the retaining surface 312 from a lower position thereof. The support surface 316 projects outwardly from the retaining surface 312 by a greater distance than the concealing surface 314. In the preferred embodiment, the concealing surface 314, retaining surface 312 and support surface 316 are all continuous surfaces provided along the longitudinal length of the concealing apparatus 310. The preferred embodiment comprises an extrusion and preferably comprises an aluminium extrusion ormed by known extrusion methods .

As previously discussed, surfaces and, in particular walls 320 in relatively old buildings, may be uneven if viewed from above, as shown in Figure 323. Accordingly, when items of furniture, for example kitchen units 321 comprising a work surface 322 are placed against the wall 320 a gap 324 of space will be formed between the wall 320 and parts of the rear edge of the work surface. Prior art methods of cutting a filling material to locate within this gap are timely and relatively expensive. However, in the present invention, the concealing apparatus 310 is initially retained to the uneven wall at the correct height. As previously discussed, as the concealing apparatus 310 is retained to the wall 320 the concealing apparatus will deform and adapt substantially the same contours as the wall. The concealing surface 314 projects outwardly from the wall by a predetermined amount . The rear edge of the work surface 322 can then be inserted into the concealing apparatus 310 and the rear lower edge of the work surface 322 is at least partially supported by the support surface 316. The rear edge of the work surface 322 is arranged to locate underneath the concealing surface 314, and, therefore, the concealing surface 314 visually conceals the presence of any gap between the rear edge of the work surface 322 and the wall 320' as shown in Figure 324. The abutment edge 318 is arranged to abut the upper surface of the work surface 322 to provide an aesthetically pleasing effect. Accordingly, the mouth defined between the abutment edge 318 and the support surface 316 is arranged to correspond with the thickness of the work- surface. The concealing apparatus 310- thereby conceals the gap when viewed from above or from in front.

Where the uneven wall bows out 326, the work top surface 322 will substantially extend all the way to the retaining surface 312 through the void in the concealing apparatus 310 defined between the concealing surface 314 and the support surface 316, as shown in Figure 325.

Similarly, where the uneven wall is bowed in 328, the rear edge of the work surface 322 may only extend into the concealing apparatus 310 by a small amount but the gap between the rear edge of the work surface 322 and the wall

(or retaining surface 312) is still visually concealing by the concealing surface 314.

The reader's attention is directed to all papers and documents which are filed concurrently with or previous to this specification in connection with this application and which are open to public inspection with this specification, and the contents of all such papers and documents are incorporated herein by reference .

All of the features disclosed in this specification

(including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) , and/or all of the steps of any method or process so disclosed, may be combined in any combination, except combinations where at least some of such features and/or steps are mutually exclusive. Each feature disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) , may be replaced by alternative features serving the same, equivalent or similar purpose, unless expressly stated otherwise. Thus, unless expressly stated otherwise, each feature disclosed is one example only of a generic series of equivalent or similar features.

The invention is not restricted to the details of the foregoing embodiment (s) . The invention extends to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the features disclosed in this specification (including any accompanying claims, abstract and drawings) or to any novel one, or any novel combination, of the steps of any method or process so disclosed.

Claims

1. A furniture support frame for an item of furniture comprising a frame having a plurality of frame members and support members, _the furniture support frame further comprising retaining means to retain a part of the item of furniture to' the frame wherein the frame members are arranged to extend underneath the item of furniture in order to support the item of furniture spaced from the ground by the support members at a predetermined height .

2. A furniture support frame according to claim 1 in which the or each support members are adjustable in order to support the item of furniture at a predetermined height .

3. A furniture support frame according to claim 1 or claim 2 in which the furniture support frame is arranged to support a plurality of furniture units .

4. A furniture support frame according to claim 3 in which the support frame is arranged to support a plurality of furniture units at a substantially identical height.

5. A furniture support • frame according to any preceding claim in which each frame member is arranged to be supported between two support members .

6. A furniture support frame according to any preceding claim in which each frame member is arranged to extend away from the support member at an angle.

7. A furniture support frame according to any preceding claim in which a first frame member is arranged to extend relative to a second frame member at a predetermined angle .

5.

-8. A furniture .support frame according to claim 7 in which the first frame member extends relative to the second frame member at an adjustable angle at angled increments .

9. A furniture support frame according to any preceding claim in which at least one frame member has a retaining slot provided, therein.

10. A furniture support frame according to claim 9 in which the retaining slot extends along the longitudinal length of the frame member.

11. A furniture support frame according to claim 9 or claim 10 in which the retaining slot provides a first engagement surface and a second engagement surface.

12. A furniture support frame according to any preceding claim in which each support member is arranged to at least partially support a plurality of frame members.

13. A furniture support frame according to any preceding claim in which the furniture support frame, comprises securement means to secure the frame member to a respective support member.

14. A furniture support frame according to claim 13 in which the securement means comprises a bracket .

15. A furniture support frame according to claim 14 in which the bracket is arranged to secure the longitudinal end of the frame member, to a support member.

- 16. A furniture, support frame according to claim.15 in which the frame member is arranged to have a bracket secured at each longitudinal end thereof .

17. A furniture support frame according to any one of claims 14 to 16 in which the support member is arranged to support a plurality of brackets.

18. A furniture support frame according to claim 17 in which a support element is arranged to directly- support the lowest bracket and then for subsequent . higher brackets to be supported on each other.

19. A furniture support frame according to any preceding claim in which the furniture support frame comprises engagement means to retain the item of furniture to the frame .

20. A furniture support frame according to claim 19 in which the engagement means comprises an engagement slot defined along the frame members to enable retaining means of the item of furniture to be engaged at a number of positions along the engagement slot .

21. A furniture support frame according to claim 20 in which the engagement slot is arranged, in use, for engaging push fit retaining apparatus .

22. A furniture support frame according to any preceding claim in which the support member comprises a support bolt which can be extended out of or retracted into a sleeve.

- 23. A furniture support frame according to any- preceding claim in which the support member comprises a foot in order to support the support member on the ground or on a floor.

24. A furniture support frame according to any preceding claim in which the furniture support frame comprises auxiliary support members.

25. A furniture support frame according to claim 25 in which the auxiliary support members are arranged to locate underneath a part of the frame member.

26. A furniture support frame according to claim 24 or claim 25 in which the height of the auxiliary support member is adjustable.

27. An assembly comprising an item of furniture and a furniture support frame for an item of furniture, the furniture support frame according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

28. An assembly according to claim 27 in which the item of furniture is arranged, in use, to have a level work surface at a predetermined height .

29. An assembly according to any one of claims 27 or 28 in which adjacent furniture units are arranged to be separated by a single partition wall.

30. An^' assembly according to any one of claims 27 to 29 in which the item of furniture comprises at least one panel

31. An assembly according to claim 30 in which the or each panel is secured to the furniture support frame by releasable securement means

32. An assembly according to any one of claims 27 to 31 in which the item of furniture is reconfigurable from a first item of furniture to a second item of furniture.

33. An assembly according to any one of claims 27 to 32 in which the assembly comprises top rails.

34. An assembly according to claim 33 in which the top rails have releasable panel (s) secured thereto.

35. An assembly according to any one of claims 27 to 34 in which the assembly provides a surface which extends substantially linearly or at an angle which provides different shapes and/or sized surface.

36. An assembly according to claim 35 in which the shape and/or size of the surface is adjustable.

37. A method of supporting an item of furniture comprising supporting the item of furniture on a furniture support frame, the furniture support frame according to any one of claims 1 to 26.

38. A method of supporting an item of furniture according to claim 37 in which the method comprises adjusting the height of the furniture support frame.

39. A method of supporting an item of furniture according to claim 37 or claim 38 in which the method comprises adjusting the height of a first support member and placing levelling means on a frame member being supported by a first support member and then adjusting the height of a second support member in order for an upper support surface of the frame member to be level .

40. Push fit retaining apparatus for use in furniture for retaining a first part of an item of furniture to a second part of an item of furniture, the retaining apparatus comprising a first engagement flange provided on a first engagement member and a second engagement flange provided on a second engagement member, the first engagement flange being movable relative to the second engagement flange between a first position and a second position wherein the first engagement flange is spaced from the second engagement flange by a greater distance in the second position relative to the first position.

41. Concealing apparatus comprising a retaining surface which is arranged, in use, to retain the concealing apparatus to a surface, the concealing apparatus further comprising a concealing surface, wherein the concealing apparatus comprises a deformable material .

42. A furniture support frame for an item of furniture substantially as herein described, with reference to, and as shown in any of the accompanying drawings .

43. An assembly comprising an item of furniture and a furniture support frame for an item of furniture substantially as herein described, with reference to, and as shown in any of the accompanying drawings .

4 . A method of supporting an item of furniture substantially as herein described, with reference to, and as shown in any of the accompanying drawings .