WO2021201766A1

WO2021201766A1 - A furniture carcass and a system therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2021201766A1
Application number: PCT/SG2020/050194
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ying How LEONG
Original assignee: Bi&L Collections Pte. Ltd.
Priority date: 2020-03-30
Filing date: 2020-03-30
Publication date: 2021-10-07

Abstract

A furniture carcass and a system for forming a furniture carcass comprises a plurality of elongate extruded components (100, 200) that are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass. The system for forming the carcass may further include a connector component having a first engaging portion for engaging a first one of the elongate components and a second engaging portion for engaging second one of the elongate components, wherein the first elongate and second elongate components, when engaged with the first and second engaging portions respectively, extend in different directions. The system may also include a mounting component to which a fixture is mountable, the mounting component being locatable in or on one of the elongate components, wherein a location of the mounting component is adjustable along a length of the at least one of the plurality of elongate components.

Description

A furniture carcass and a system therefor

Field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a furniture carcass and a system for forming a furniture carcass.

Background

[0002] Existing furniture carcasses is time-consuming to assemble. These furniture carcasses a comprised of a plurality of timber components that needs to be glued or otherwise fastened together so as to assemble the carcass. If the timber components have been incorrectly positioned, the timber component would need to be removed which could risk damaging the timber component. That timber component (if it was not damaged during removal), or another timber component, would then need to be located in the desired location. As a result, the cost of assembling these existing carcasses can also be expensive.

[0003] To connect fixtures to these existing carcasses once assembled, a carpenter or cabinet maker would need to carefully position the mounting component, such as hinges or shelf brackets, in the carcass. The mounting component is fixed to the carcass by gluing the mounting component or screwing the mounting component in location. If the mounting components have been incorrectly located in the carcass, the mounting component would need to be removed from the carcass, which could risk damaging the mounting component and could even risk damaging the carcass.

[0004] In addition, these existing carcasses are prone to termite damage. As a result, compromised components of the carcass or the entire carcass would need to be replaced.

[0005] In this context, there is a need for an improved furniture carcass.

Summary of the invention

[0006] According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a furniture carcass comprising: a plurality of elongate extruded components that are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass.

[0007] The extruded elongate component is preferably made from aluminium. The extruded elongate component may be anodised. Alternatively, the extruded elongate component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the extruded elongate component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the extruded elongate component may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material. [0008] The plurality of elongate extruded components may include a first elongate extruded component that includes a connector component that is connectable to at least one other elongate extruded component of the plurality of elongate extruded components such that when the at least one other elongate extruded component and the first elongate extruded component are connected via the connector component, the first elongate extruded component and the at least one other extruded component extend from where they are connected in different directions.

[0009] The connector component may be a die-cast component. The connector component is preferably made aluminium. The connector component may be anodised. Alternatively, the connector component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the connector component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the connector component may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material.

[0010] The connector component is preferably for connecting two elongate extruded components. The connector component may be for connecting three elongate extruded components.

[0011] A location of the connector component may be adjustable along a length of the first elongate extruded component. Preferably, the connector component is slidable along a length of the first elongate extruded component.

[0012] The connector component may be engageable with the first elongate extruded component, wherein the connector component preferably has a first engaging portion for complementarily engaging a portion of the first elongate extruded component.

[0013] Preferably, the first elongate extruded component has a channel (or guide) and the first engaging portion includes a tongue that is insertable into the channel of the first elongate extruded component. The first elongate extruded component preferably has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel, wherein each wall portion has a lip portion for trapping the tongue within the channel. The tongue preferably has at least one stepped portion being locatable between a respective one of the lip portions and a base portion of the channel to thereby trap the tongue within the channel. The tongue preferably has two stepped portions on opposite sides of the tongue. In an embodiment, the second elongate extruded component is extendable from a rearward section of the tongue, and the first and second stepped portions are on a left side and right side of the tongue. In another embodiment, the second elongate extruded component is extendable from a rearward section of the tongue, and the first and second stepped portions are on a forward side and rearward side of the tongue. In a further embodiment, the second elongate extruded component is extendable centrally from the tongue, and the first and second stepped portions are on a forward side and rearward side of the tongue. [0014] The connector component preferably extends, or is extendable, from an end of the first elongate extruded component. The first engaging portion may include one or more projections and the first elongate extruded component includes one or more apertures, each aperture for receiving a respective one of the one or more projections. The first engaging portion preferably includes two spaced apart projections and the first elongate extruded component preferably includes two spaced- apart apertures.

[0015] Where the first engaging portion includes one or more projections and the tongue, an axis along which the projection(s) extend is substantially parallel with an axis along which the tongue extends.

[0016] The connector component preferably has a second engaging portion that extends, or is extendable, substantially transversely from the first elongate extruded component for complementarily engaging a portion of a second elongate extruded component of the plurality of elongate extruded components, such that the second elongate extruded component when connected to the first elongate extruded component via the connector component is substantially transverse to the first elongate extruded component.

[0017] Preferably, the second elongate extruded component has a channel (or guide) and the second engaging portion includes a tongue that is insertable into the channel of the second elongate extruded component. The second elongate extruded component preferably has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel, wherein each wall portion has a lip portion for trapping the tongue within the channel The tongue preferably has at least one stepped portion being locatable between a respective one of the lip portions and a base portion of the channel to thereby trap the tongue within the channel. The tongue preferably has two stepped portions on opposite sides of the tongue.

[0018] The second engaging portion may include one or more projections and the second elongate extruded component includes one or more apertures, each aperture for receiving a respective one of the one or more projections. The second engaging portion preferably includes two spaced apart projections and the second elongate extruded component preferably includes two spaced-apart apertures.

[0019] Where the second engaging portion includes one or more projections and the tongue, an axis along which the projection(s) extend is substantially parallel with an axis along which the tongue extends.

[0020] Each of the first and second elongate components has a length along a respective x-axis, a thickness along a respective y-axis, and a width along a respective z-axis. The second elongate extruded component is preferably connectable to the first elongate extruded component such that at least two of the x, y, and z-axes of the second elongate extruded component is perpendicular to at least two of the x, y, and z-axes of the first elongate extruded component.

[0021] In some embodiments of the connector component, when the second elongate extruded component is connected to the first elongate extruded component: the x-axis of the first elongate extruded component is perpendicular to the x-axis of the second elongate extruded component; and the y-axis of the first elongate extruded component is perpendicular to the y-axis of the second elongate extruded component. Preferably, when the second elongate extruded component is connected to the first elongate extruded component: the z-axis of the first elongate extruded component is parallel to the z-axis of the second elongate extruded component. Alternatively, when the second elongate extruded component is connected to the first elongate extruded component: the z-axis of the first elongate extruded component is perpendicular to the z-axis of the second elongate extruded component.

[0022] In some embodiments, when the second elongate extruded component is connected to the first elongate extruded component: the x-axis of the first elongate extruded component is perpendicular to the x-axis of the second elongate extruded component; and the z-axis of the first elongate extruded component is perpendicular to the y-axis of the second elongate extruded component.

[0023] The connector component may have a side face with a receiving portion for receiving a fixture. The fixture may be any one of a dust seal, a gasket, a panel, a lighting fixture, or an insulation for a lighting fixture. The receiving portion of the elongate extruded component is preferably a slot. At least one side of one of the elongate components preferably has a receiving portion along its length for receiving a portion of a fixture. The receiving portion of the connector component is preferably a slot. The receiving portion of the elongate extruded component and the receiving portion of the connector component preferably form a continuous receiving portion such that a first portion of a fixture is receivable by the receiving portion of the elongate extruded component and a second portion of the fixture is receivable by the receiving portion of the connector component.

[0024] The furniture carcass may further include a cover for covering a channel of one of the elongate extruded components. The cover is preferably slidable along a length of the elongate extruded component. The elongate extruded component may include one or more slots parallel to the channel and the cover incudes one or more slot-engaging portions, each slot-engaging portion for engaging a respective one of the one or more slots. The one or more slots may be next to the channel of the first elongate extruded component. The cover is preferably an extruded component. For example, the cover is preferably made from aluminium. The cover may be anodised. Alternatively, the cover may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the cover may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the cover may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material.

[0025] At least one of the plurality of elongate extruded components may include a mounting component to which a fixture is mountable. The fixture may be a door hinge, a drawer runner, a shelf, a panel, a lighting fixture, or an insulation for a lighting fixture. The mounting component is preferably engagable with a channel of the elongate extruded component. The mounting component may be trappable within the channel of the extruded component. The mounting component has one or more stepped portions, each stepped portion being locatable between a lip portion in a wall of the elongate extruded component defining the channel and a base of the channel to thereby trap the mounting component in the channel.

[0026] A location of the mounting component is preferably adjustable along a length of the at least one of the plurality of elongate extruded components. The mounting component may be slidable along a length of the at least one of the plurality of elongate extruded components.

[0027] The mounting component may include a body portion having one or more receiving portions to which the fixture is mountable. The receiving portion may include an aperture for receiving a fastener to secure the fixture to the mounting component. The mounting component is preferably a die cast component. For example, the mounting component is preferably made from aluminium. The mounting component may be anodised. Alternatively, the mounting component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the mounting component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the mounting component may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material.

[0028] The mounting component may be an elongate component that spans a length of the elongate extruded component. The elongate component is preferably an extruded component. For example, the mounting component is preferably made from aluminium. The elongate component may be anodised. Alternatively, the elongate component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the elongate component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the elongate component may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material. The mounting component may include a channel for receiving the fixture and an engaging portion for engaging the channel of the elongate extruded component. In an embodiment, the mounting component has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel and the engaging portion extends from one of the wall portions. In another embodiment, the mounting component has two spaced apart wall portions and a base portion defining the channel, wherein the engaging portion extends from the base portion. [0029] A system of components for forming a furniture carcass, the system including a plurality of elongate extruded components which are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass.

[0030] The elongate extruded component is preferably made from aluminium. The elongate extruded component may be anodised. Alternatively, the extruded elongate component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the extruded elongate component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the extruded elongate component may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material.

[0031] The elongate extruded component may include a channel for receiving one of a connector component to which another elongate extruded component is connectable or a mounting component to which a cabinet fixture is mountable. The elongate extruded component may have, along its length, a plurality of channels, each channel on different sides of the elongate extruded component. Preferably, the elongate extruded component has three channels. A location of the one of the connector component or the mounting component is adjustable along a length of the elongate extruded component. The elongate extruded component preferably includes two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel, wherein at least one of the wall portions has a lip portion for trapping the one of the connector component and the mounting component within the channel.

[0032] The system preferably further includes a connector component that is connectable to at least one other elongate extruded component of the plurality of elongate extruded components such that when two of the elongate extruded components are connected by the connector component, the two elongate extruded components extend from where they are connected in different directions.

[0033] The connector component is preferably a die-cast component. For example, the connector component is preferably made from aluminium. The connector component may be anodised. Alternatively, the connector component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the connector component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the connector component may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material.

[0034] A system of components for forming a furniture carcass from a plurality of elongate components which are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass, the system including a connector component having a first engaging portion for engaging a first one of the elongate components and a second engaging portion for engaging second one of the elongate components, wherein the first elongate and second elongate components, when engaged with the first and second engaging portions respectively, extend in different directions. [0035] The connector component is preferably for connecting two elongate components. The connector component may be for connecting three elongate components.

[0036] A location of the connector component may be adjustable along a length of the first elongate component. Preferably, the connector component is slidable along a length of the first elongate component.

[0037] The connector component may be engageable with the first elongate component, wherein the connector component preferably has a first engaging portion for complementarily engaging a portion of the first elongate component.

[0038] Preferably, the first elongate component has a channel (or guide) and the first engaging portion includes a tongue that is insertable into the channel of the first elongate component. The first elongate component preferably has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel, wherein each wall portion has a lip portion for trapping the tongue within the channel. The tongue preferably has at least one stepped portion being locatable between a respective one of the lip portions and a base portion of the channel to thereby trap the tongue within the channel. The tongue preferably has two stepped portions on opposite sides of the tongue. In an embodiment, the second elongate component is extendable from a rearward section of the tongue, and the first and second stepped portions are on a left side and right side of the tongue. In another embodiment, the second elongate component is extendable from a rearward section of the tongue, and the first and second stepped portions are on a forward side and rearward side of the tongue. In a further embodiment, the second elongate component is extendable centrally from the tongue, and the first and second stepped portions are on a forward side and rearward side of the tongue.

[0039] The connector component preferably is extendable from an end of the first elongate component. The first engaging portion may include one or more projections and the first elongate component includes one or more apertures, each aperture for receiving a respective one of the one or more projections. The first engaging portion preferably includes two spaced apart projections and the first elongate component preferably includes two spaced-apart apertures.

[0040] Where the first engaging portion includes one or more projections and the tongue, an axis along which the projection(s) extend and an axis along which the tongue extends are substantially parallel.

[0041] The connector component preferably has a second engaging portion that extends, or is extendable, substantially transversely from the first elongate component for complementarily engaging a portion of a second elongate component of the plurality of elongate extruded components, such that the second elongate component when connected to the first elongate component via the connector component is substantially transverse to the first elongate component.

[0042] Preferably, the second elongate component has a channel (or guide) and the second engaging portion includes a tongue that is insertable into the channel of the second elongate component. The second elongate component preferably has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel, wherein each wall portion has a lip portion for trapping the tongue within the channel. The tongue preferably has at least one stepped portion being locatable between a respective one of the lip portions and a base portion of the channel to thereby trap the tongue within the channel. The tongue preferably has two stepped portions on opposite sides of the tongue.

[0043] The second engaging portion may include one or more projections and the second elongate component includes one or more apertures, each aperture for receiving a respective one of the one or more projections. The second engaging portion preferably includes two spaced apart projections and the second elongate component preferably includes two spaced-apart apertures.

[0044] Where the second engaging portion includes one or more projections and the tongue, an axis along which the projection(s) extend and an axis along which the tongue extends are substantially parallel.

[0045] The connector component may have a side face with a receiving portion for receiving a fixture. The fixture may be any one of a dust seal, a gasket, a panel, a lighting fixture, or an insulation for a lighting fixture. The receiving portion of the elongate component is preferably a slot. At least one side of one of the elongate components preferably has a receiving portion along its length for receiving a portion of a fixture. The receiving portion of the connector component is preferably a slot. The receiving portion of the elongate component and the receiving portion of the connector component preferably form a continuous receiving portion such that a first portion of a fixture is receivable by the receiving portion of the elongate extruded component and a second portion of the fixture is receivable by the receiving portion of the connector component.

[0046] The system may further include a mounting component to which a fixture is mountable, the mounting component being locatable in or on one of the elongate components. The fixture may be a door hinge, a drawer runner, a shelf, a panel, a lighting fixture, or an insulation for a lighting fixture. The mounting component is preferably engagable with a channel of the elongate extruded component. The mounting component may be trappable within the channel of the extruded component. The mounting component has one or more stepped portions, each stepped portion being locatable between a lip portion in a wall of the elongate extruded component defining the channel and a base of the channel to thereby trap the mounting component in the channel. [0047] A location of the mounting component is preferably adjustable along a length of the at least one of the plurality of elongate components.

[0048] A further aspect of the present invention provides a system of components for forming a furniture carcass from a plurality of elongate components which are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass, the system including a mounting component to which a fixture is mountable, the mounting component being locatable in or on one of the elongate components, wherein a location of the mounting component is adjustable along a length of the at least one of the plurality of elongate components.

[0049] The fixture may be a door hinge, a drawer runner, a shelf, a panel, a lighting fixture, or an insulation for a lighting fixture. The mounting component is preferably engagable with a channel of the elongate extruded component. The mounting component may be trappable within the channel of the extruded component. The mounting component has one or more stepped portions, each stepped portion being locatable between a lip portion in a wall of the elongate extruded component defining the channel and a base of the channel to thereby trap the mounting component in the channel.

[0050] The mounting component may be slidable along a length of the at least one of the plurality of elongate extruded components.

[0051] The mounting component may include a body portion having one or more receiving portions to which the fixture is mountable. The receiving portion may include an aperture for receiving a fastener to secure the fixture to the mounting component. The mounting component is preferably a die cast component. For example, the mounting component is preferably made from aluminium. The mounting component may be anodised. Alternatively, the mounting component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the mounting component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the mounting component may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material.

[0052] The mounting component may be an elongate component that spans a length of the elongate extruded component. The elongate component is preferably an extruded component. For example, the mounting component is preferably made from aluminium. The elongate component may be anodised. Alternatively, the elongate component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the elongate component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the elongate component may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material. The mounting component may include a channel for receiving the fixture and an engaging portion for engaging the channel of the elongate extruded component. In an embodiment, the mounting component has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel and the engaging portion extends from one of the wall portions. In another embodiment, the mounting component has two spaced apart wall portions and a base portion defining the channel, wherein the engaging portion extends from the base portion.

[0053] The system may further include a cover for covering at least a portion of a channel of one of the elongate components.

[0054] Another aspect of the present invention provides a system of components for forming a furniture carcass from a plurality of elongate components which are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass, at least one of the elongate components having a channel into which a connector component to which another one of the elongate components is engageable or a mounting component to which a fixture is mountable, the system including a cover for covering at least a portion of the channel.

[0055] The cover is preferably slidable along a length of the elongate extruded component. The elongate extruded component may include one or more slots parallel to the channel and the cover incudes one or more slot-engaging portions, each slot-engaging portion for engaging a respective one of the one or more slots. The one or more slots may be next to the channel of the first elongate extruded component.

[0056] The cover is preferably an extruded component. For example, the cover is preferably made from aluminium. The cover may be anodised. Alternatively, the cover may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the cover may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the cover may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material.

[0057] A further aspect of the present invention provides a customisable furniture carcass comprising a plurality of structural components which are mutually interconnectable in a variety of configurations to form a variety of furniture carcasses.

[0058] Each of the structural components is in the form of an elongate extruded component. Preferably, the elongate extruded component is the elongate extruded component according to the previous described aspects.

Brief description of the drawings

[0059] The invention will now be described, by way of non-limiting example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 shows an end view of an elongate component according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 shows an end view of an elongate component according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 3A to 3D show the elongate component of Figure 1 to which fixtures are mountable;

Figures 4A to 4C show a cover according to an embodiment of the present invention for an elongate component;

Figures 5A and 5B show different views of a connector component according to an embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 6A and 6B show different views of a connector component according to another embodiment of the present invention;

Figures 7A to 7H show the connector component of Figures 5A and 5B for engaging a plurality of elongate components;

Figures 8A to 8F show different views of a connector component according to another embodiment of the present invention for connecting two elongate components;

Figures 9A to 9F show different views of a connector component according to another embodiment of the present invention for connecting two elongate components;

Figures 10A to 10F show different views of a connector component according to another embodiment of the present invention for connecting two elongate components;

Figures 11A to 1 IF show different views of a mounting component according to an embodiment of the present invention for mounting a fixture to an elongate component;

Figures 12A to 12C show different views of a mounting component according to an embodiment of the present invention for mounting a fixture to an elongate component;

Figures 13A to 13D show different views of a mounting component according to an embodiment of the present invention for mounting one or more fixtures to an elongate component; and

Figure 14 shows an end view of an elongate mounting component according to another embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description l l [0060] Figures 1 and 2 each illustrates an end view of an elongate component 100, 200 (or elongate member) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The elongate component is for forming a furniture carcass or a portion of the furniture carcass. The furniture carcass is, in preferred embodiments, a cabinet carcass. A plurality of the elongate components, including the elongate component 100, 200 of Figures 1 and 2, are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass. The plurality of elongate components may, for example, be mutually interconnectable to form a cube, cuboid, or other volumetric geometry wherein the plurality of elongate components includes a first set of elongate components that form edges of the carcass and, optionally, one or more intermediate elongate components that are locatable between two elongate components of the first set. The one or more intermediate elongate components may be provided depending on the span of the furniture carcass for reinforcing the carcass, or to divide the furniture carcass into two or more compartments.

[0061] The interconnectability of the plurality of elongate components is customisable using the connector components that will be described in further detail below. In particular, the system for the furniture carcass includes a plurality of different connectors that are engageable with the elongate components such that the elongate components can be connected to each other in a plurality of different configurations to form a variety of different carcasses. As a result, the user is provided with more freedom to customaise the carcass depending on the space and other constraints in which the carcass is to be located.

[0062] The elongate components according to preferred embodiments of the present invention, including the elongate components 100, 200 of Figures 1 and 2, are made from aluminium, which is preferably anodised. The carcass formed by these elongated components would have a better longevity compared to traditional carcasses that are made from wood or engineering word (e.g. medium density fibreboard). The elongate component is formed by extrusion. Alternatively, the elongate component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the elongate component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the elongate component may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material

[0063] Referring to Figure 1, the elongate component 100 has a main channel 110, a first side channel 120, a second side channel 130, and two spaced apart apertures 140. Each of the channels spans the entire length of the elongate component 100. In other embodiments, one or more of the channels may span a portion of the length of the elongate component 100. The channels are mutually parallel. A width of the main channel is greater than the width of each side channel. Figures 3A to 3D show examples of how the elongate component 100 can be used. [0064] The main channel 110 has a width that spans partially along a width of the elongate component 100. The main channel 110 is defined by two spaced apart wall portions 111, 112 and a base 113. Each wall portion 111, 112 has a lip portion 111a, 112a that extends over the main channel 110. The lip portions 111a, 112a restrict an opening into the main channel 110. As will be described in further detail below, the lip portions are for trapping a connector component or a mounting component within the main channel 110.

[0065] On an outwardly facing surface of each lip portion 111a, 112a, there is provided a slot 111b, 112b extending along a length thereof. These slots 111b, 112b are for each receiving a respective projection of an elongate cover, which will be described below with reference to Figure 4A to 4C, for covering at least a portion of the main channel. The slots have a restricted opening into the slot for trapping the cover relative to the main channel. The cover would only be slidable along a horizontal axis along a length of the main channel but would be restrained, by the restricted opening in the slots 111b, 112b, from movement in a vertical direction away from the main channel. An axis along which each slot 111b, 112b extends is parallel to an axis along which the main channel 110 extends.

[0066] Each of the first side channel 120 and the second side channel 130 has a width that spans partially along a thickness of the elongate component 100 on opposite sides thereof. The profile of the first side channel 120 is smaller compared to the profile of the second side channel 130. The first side channel 120 may be for receiving a smaller sized fixture such as dust seal FI for example as shown in Figure 3A. A second side channel 130 may be for receiving a larger sized fixture such as a panel, a gasket and a panel, a connector component with which another elongate component is engageable, or a mounting component. For example, with reference to Figures 3B to 3D, a gasket F2 is insertable in the second side channel 130, the gasket having a substantially U-shape profile. A panel F3 is insertable into the gasket F2 within the second side channel 130. The second side channel 130 may, in some embodiments, be for receiving an elongate components in which a lighting fixture is receivable.

[0067] The two apertures 140 extend through the elongate component 100 over the entire length of the elongate component 100. In other embodiments, the two apertures may only span a partial length of the elongate component 100. The opening into each of these apertures 140 is provided on an end of the elongate component. Each of the two apertures 140 are for receiving a projection of a comer connector component for stably locating a comer connector relative to the elongate component 100. In other embodiments, the elongate component may be provided, at one end, with one or more projections that are insertable into an aperture of a comer connector. In other embodiments, the elongate component may be provided, at one end, with a combination of apertures and projections for complementarily engaging respective projections and apertures of a comer connector component. [0068] Figure 2 shows an elongate component 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Unless otherwise described the features of the elongate component 200 are similar to the features of the elongate component described with reference to Figure 1. Like the elongate component 100 described with reference to Figure 1, the elongate component 200 has a main channel 210, a first side channel 220, a third side channel 230, and two spaced apart apertures 240.

[0069] In contrast to the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the profile of the first side channel 220 is similar to (i.e. a mirror image of) the profile of the second side channel 230. In this embodiment, both the first and second side channels can receive a larger sized fixture such as a panel, a gasket and a panel, a connector component, or a mounting component.

[0070] The elongate component of Figure 2 is preferably used as an intermediate elongate component in the furniture carcass while the elongate component of Figure 1 is preferably used for as an edge component forming an edge of the carcass with the first side channel of the edge component facing outwardly, away from the other elongate components. In a carcass including the elongate component shown in Figure 1 and the elongate component shown in Figure 2, the second side channel of the elongate component 100 faces either one of the channels of the elongate component 200 such that a panel may located between the two elongate components 100, 220 with one side of the panel being receivable by the second side channel of the elongate component 100 and an opposite side of the panel being receivable by one of the channels of the elongate component 200.

[0071] Figures 4A to 4C show an elongate cover 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The cover 300 is for covering the main channel in the elongate components 100, 200 described with reference to Figures 1 and 2 above. Figures 4B and 4C show the cover 300 for covering the main channel 110 of the first elongate component described in relation to Figure 1. The cover has two spaced apart projections 311, 312 extending from a main body 310 that is each insertable into a respective one of the slots 111b, 112b of the first elongate component 100 as described previously above in relation to Figure 1 or into a respective one of the slots of the second elongate component as described above in relation to Figure 2. Each projection 311, 312 has an enlarged free end for assisting in the location of the cover relative to the slots of the elongate component. A width of the restricted opening of the slots of the elongate components is less than a width of the enlarged free end of the respective projection of the cover 300 so as to trap the cover relative to the channel.

[0072] The cover has a length that spans a portion of the length of the elongate component. In other embodiments, the cover may have a length that spans an entire length of the elongate component. [0073] The cover 300 is preferably an extruded component. For example, the cover is preferably made from aluminium. The cover may be anodised. Alternatively, the cover may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the cover may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the cover may be made from plastic or some other non-biodegradable material.

[0074] Figures 5A and 5B show a first corner connector component 400 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figures 6 A and 6B show a second comer connector component 500 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The comer connectors 400, 500 have features for complementarily engaging features of the elongate components described with reference to Figures 1 and 2 above. The comer connectors 400, 500 are, in particular, engageable with ends of the elongate components.

[0075] The connector component 400, 500 is a die-cast aluminium component. The connector component may be anodised. Alternatively, the connector component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the connector component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the connector component may be made from plastic or some other non- biodegradable material.

[0076] Each of the first and second comer connectors 400, 500 is a three-way connector for connecting three elongate components together, such that all three elongate components extend from the respective comer connector in different directions. The features of the first and second comer connector components are similar apart from the orientation of the first, second, and third engaging components. In particular, the first comer connector component is a mirror image of the second comer connector component. The first and second corner connector components are each connectable opposite ends of the elongate component.

[0077] The first comer connector 400 and the way in which it is used to connect together elongate components will now be described with reference to Figures 6A and 6B in relation to Figures 7 A to 7H.

[0078] The first comer connector 400 includes a first engaging feature 410 for engaging a first elongate component 100 (shown in Figures 7A to 7C), a second engaging feature 420 for engaging a second elongate component 100' (shown in Figures 7D to 7F), and a third engaging feature 430 for engaging a third elongate component 100" (shown in Figures 7G and 7H). The elongate component that is connectable to any of the engaging features of the comer component 400 may be the elongate component 100 described with reference to Figure 1 or the elongate component 200 described with reference to Figure 2. The elongate component connected to a respective one of the engaging features extends substantially perpendicularly to the elongate components connected to the other engaging feature(s). As shown in Figure 7H, when three elongate components 100, 100', 100" are connected to the first comer component, each elongate component extends from the first comer component 400 substantially at right angles to the other elongate components. The comer component 400 is defined by a three-dimensional xyz-axes, such that the elongate component connected to the first engaging feature extends along the x-axis, the elongate component connected to the second engaging feature extends along the y-axis, and the elongate component connected to the third engaging feature extends along the z-axis.

[0079] The first engaging feature 410 includes a tongue 411 that is insertable into the main channel of the elongate component 100. The tongue 411 has two stepped portions 411a, 411b (shown in Figure 5B) on either side of the tongue, each stepped portion 41 la, 41 lb being locatable between a respective one of the lip portions and a base portion, described previously above, of the main channel of the first elongate component to thereby trap the tongue 411 within the main channel. The stepped portion on a side of the tongue creates a stepped side surface of the tongue portion. According to other embodiments, a side profile of the tongue portion may have an irregular shape (e.g. a wavy side surface) engageable by a wall portion defining the main channel having a complementary irregular shape, a curved surface engageable by a wall portion defining the main channel have a complementary curved surface. Alternatively, the tongue may have trapezoidal profile or partially circular profile (e.g. semi-circular profile) that is complementarily receivable by the main channel. Although the two side surfaces of the tongue portion 410 have a similar stepped profile, in other embodiments, the side surfaces of the tongue portion may have different profiles from each other.

[0080] The first engaging feature 410 may include two spaced apart projections 412, each projection being insertable into a respective one of the one or more apertures of the elongate component as described previously above.

[0081] In other embodiments, the first engaging feature may include one projection or more than two projections, or the first engaging feature may include one or more apertures each of which is engageable by a respective one or more projections of the elongate component, or the first engaging feature may only have a tongue without the projections, or the first engaging feature may only have the projection(s) without the tongue.

[0082] The components of the second and third engaging features 420, 430 are similar to the components of the first engaging feature 410 described previously above. In particular, the second engaging feature 420 has a tongue 421 with stepped side surfaces insertable into a main channel of the elongate component and two spaced apart projections 422 respectively insertable into two spaced apart apertures in the elongate component. Similarly, the third engaging feature 430 has a tongue 431 with stepped side surfaces insertable into a main channel of the elongate component and two spaced apart projections 432 respectively insertable into two spaced apart apertures in the elongate component. The tongue and projections of each respective engaging feature extend in a direction that is perpendicular to a direction in which the tongue and projections of the other engaging feature extend.

[0083] A side surface of the connector component 400 includes a channel 440 along which a dust seal FI, F2, as shown in Figures 7B to 7F is slidable. When the first elongate component described above with reference to Figure 1 is connected to one of the engaging features of the comer connector, the second side channel is aligned with, and forms a continuous channel with, the channel 440 in the side surface of the comer connector.

[0084] With reference to Figures 6A to 6B, the second comer connector 500 includes features that are similar to the features of the first corner connector 400 described with reference to Figures 5A and 5B. The second comer connector in particular includes a first engaging feature 510, second engaging feature 520, and a third engaging feature 530 each for engaging a respective elongate component. Elongate components connected to the corner component would extend from the corner component in different directions. The first engaging feature 510 has a tongue 511 with stepped side surfaces insertable into a main channel of the elongate component and two spaced apart projections 512 respectively insertable into two spaced apart apertures in the elongate component. The second engaging feature 520 has a tongue 521 with stepped side surfaces insertable into a main channel of the elongate component and two spaced apart projections 522 respectively insertable into two spaced apart apertures in the elongate component. Similarly, the third engaging feature 530 has a tongue 531 with stepped side surfaces insertable into a main channel of the elongate component and two spaced apart projections 532 respectively insertable into two spaced apart apertures in the elongate component.

[0085] A side surface of the connector component includes a channel 540 along which a dust seal is slidable. When the first elongate component described above with reference to Figure 1 is connected to one of the engaging features of the comer connector, the second side channel is aligned with, and forms a continuous channel with, the channel 540 in the side surface of the comer connector.

[0086] Figures 8A to 8F show another connector component 600 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The connector component 600 is for connecting two elongate components 100", 200 such that an end of one elongate component 200 is connected about a length of the other elongate component 100”. The connector component 600 is a two-way connector and can be used forming a T- intersection for elongate components of the furniture carcass. [0087] The connector component 600 is a die-cast aluminium component. The connector component may be anodised. Alternatively, the connector component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the connector component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the connector component may be made from plastic or some other non- biodegradable material.

[0088] The connector component 600 includes a first engaging feature 610 for engaging a first elongate component 100". The first engaging feature 610 includes an elongate base portion that is insertable into the second side channel of the first elongate component 100" described above with reference to Figure 1, as shown in Figure 8D, or is insertable into either of the side channels of the second elongate component described above with reference to Figure 2. The elongate base portion spans a portion of the length of the first elongate component 100". The connector component 600 is slidable along a length of the elongate component 100" in the side channel. The base portion has an aperture through which a fastener is passable to lock or fix a location of the connector component along a length of the first elongate component.

[0089] The connector component 600 includes a second engaging feature 620 for engaging an end of a second elongate component 200. The second engaging feature 620 extends along an axis that is substantially perpendicular to an axis along which the connector component 600 is slidable. The second engaging feature 620 has a tongue 621 with stepped side surfaces 621a, 621b insertable into a side channel of the elongate component and two spaced apart projections 622 respectively insertable into two spaced apart apertures of the elongate component 200.

[0090] The connector component has a neck portion 630 connecting the first engaging feature 610 and the second engaging feature 620. The base portion of the first engaging feature 610 is larger than the neck portion 630. The lip portions extending from two spaced apart wall portions defining the side channel of the elongate component, along which the connector component is slidable, trap the first engaging feature 610 in the side channel. Thereby, the connector component 600 cannot be pulled away from the elongate connector component.

[0091] Figures 9A to 9F show another connector component 700 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The connector component 700 is for connecting two elongate components such that an end of one elongate component is connected about a length of the other elongate component.

[0092] The connector component 700 is a die-cast aluminium component. The connector component may be anodised. Alternatively, the connector component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the connector component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the connector component may be made from plastic or some other non- biodegradable material.

[0093] The connector component 700 includes a first engaging feature 710 for engaging a first elongate component. The first engaging feature 710 includes a tongue 711 that is insertable into the main channel of the first elongate component described above with reference to Figure 1 or insertable into the main channel of the second elongate component described above with reference to Figure 2. Figure 9E and 9F show the connector component inserted into the main channel 110 of the first elongate component 100. The tongue 711 spans a portion of the length of the elongate component. When the connector component 700 is inserted into the main channel 110, the connector component is slidable along a length of the elongate component. The tongue 711 of the first engaging feature 710 has one or more apertures each through which a fastener is passable to lock or fix a location of the connector component 700 along a length of the elongate component.

[0094] The tongue 711 of the first engaging feature 710 is trappable within the channel. In particular, the tongue 711 has stepped side portions defining a stepped side surface for tongue portion. Each stepped portion is locatable between a lip portion of the wall portion defining the main channel and a base of the main channel to thereby trap the tongue 711 within the main channel

[0095] The connector component 700 includes a second engaging feature 720 for engaging an end of a second elongate component 100'. The second engaging feature 720 extends along an axis that is substantially perpendicular to an axis along which the connector component 700 is slidable when located in the main channel of the first elongate component 100. The second engaging feature 720 has a tongue 721 with stepped side surfaces insertable into a main channel of the second elongate component and two spaced apart projections 622 respectively insertable into two spaced apart apertures in the second elongate component.

[0096] The tongue 711 of the first engaging feature 710 has the stepped portions on a left side and right side of the tongue portion. The second engaging feature 720 extends perpendicularly from a rearward section of the first engaging feature 710.

[0097] Figures 10A to 10F show another connector component 800 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The connector component 700 is for connecting two elongate components such that an end of one elongate component is connected about a length of the other elongate component. The connector component 800 is generally similar to the connector component 700 described with reference to Figures 9A to 9E. In this embodiment of the connector, a tongue 811 of a first engaging feature 810 for engaging a first elongate component 100 has stepped portions on a front side and rear side of the tongue portion, and a second engaging feature 820 for engaging a second elongate component 200 extends perpendicularly from a rearward section of the first engaging feature 810.

[0098] The connector component 800 is a die-cast aluminium component. The connector component may be anodised. Alternatively, the connector component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the connector component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the connector component may be made from plastic or some other non- biodegradable material.

[0099] The connector component 800 includes a first engaging feature 810 for engaging a first elongate component. The first engaging feature 810 includes a tongue 811 that is insertable into the main channel of the first elongate component described above with reference to Figure 1 or insertable into the main channel of the second elongate component described above with reference to Figure 2. Figure IOC shows the connector component 800 inserted into the main channel 110 of the first elongate component 100. The tongue 811 spans a portion of the length of the elongate component 100. When the connector component 800 is inserted into the main channel 110, the connector component is slidable along a length of the elongate component. The tongue 811 of the first engaging feature 810 has one or more apertures each through which a fastener is passable to lock or fix a location of the connector component 800 along a length of the elongate component.

[00100] The tongue 811 of the first engaging feature 810 is trappable within the channel. In particular, the tongue 811 has stepped side portions defining a stepped side surface for tongue portion. Each stepped portion is locatable between a lip portion of the wall portion defining the main channel and a base of the main channel to thereby trap the tongue 811 within the main channel.

[00101] The connector component 800 includes a second engaging feature 820 for engaging an end of a second elongate component 100'. The second engaging feature 820 extends along an axis that is substantially perpendicular to an axis along which the connector component 800 is slidable when located in the main channel of the first elongate component 100. The second engaging feature 820 has a tongue 821 with stepped side surfaces insertable into a main channel of the second elongate component and two spaced apart projections 622 respectively insertable into two spaced apart apertures in the second elongate component.

[00102] As previously described above, the tongue 811 of the first engaging feature 810 has the stepped portions on a left side and right side of the tongue portion. The second engaging feature 820 extends perpendicularly from a rearward section of the first engaging feature 810. [00103] Figures 11A to 1 IF show a mounting component 900 according to an embodiment of the present invention to which a fixture is mountable. The fixture may be a door hinge, a drawer runner, a shelf, a panel, a lighting fixture.

[00104] The mounting component 900 is a die cast aluminum component. The mounting component may be anodised. Alternatively, the mounting component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the mounting component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the mounting component may be made from plastic or some other non- biodegradable material.

[00105] The mounting component 900 has a body portion that is insertable into the main channel 110 of an elongate component 100. The body portion is slidable along a length of the elongate component 100 in main channel 110. The body portion includes one or more apertures through which a fastener (such as a screw) is passable to lock or fix a location of the mounting component 900 on the elongate component 100.

[00106] Figures 11C to 1 IF show a first mounting component 900 insertable into the main channel of an edge elongate component 100 and a second mounting component 900' insertable into the main channel of an intermediate elongate component 200. The first mounting component 900 is identical to the second mounting component 900'. The location of the first and second mounting components 900, 900' are adjustable along a length of each respective elongate component such that a fixture, such as a drawer runner F4 (as shown in Figure 1 IF) can be located so that it is substantially level in the furniture carcass.

[00107] Figures 12A to 12C show a mounting component 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention to which a fixture is mountable. The fixture may be a panel. In particular, one end of the panel can be secured to the mounting component. For example, a shelf bracket may be provided to the mounting component for holding the shelf. The mounting component 1000 is generally similar to the mounting component 900 previous described. In contrast, the mounting component 1000 is shorter in length compared to the mounting component 900 previously described.

[00108] The mounting component 1000 is a die cast aluminum component. The mounting component may be anodised. Alternatively, the mounting component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the mounting component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the mounting component may be made from plastic or some other non- biodegradable material. [00109] The mounting component 1000 has a body portion that is insertable into the main channel 110 of an elongate component 100, as shown in Figure 12C. The body portion is slidable along a length of the elongate component 100 in main channel 110. The body portion includes one or more apertures through which a fastener (such as a screw) is passable to lock or fix a location of the mounting component 1000 on the elongate component 100.

[00110] Figures 13A to 13D show an embodiment of a mounting component 1100 according to another embodiment of the present invention to which one or more fixtures is mountable. The fixture may be a panel, gasket, an electrical device (such as a lighting device) or an insulation for receiving the electrical device.

[00111] The mounting component 1100 is an extruded aluminum component. The mounting component may be anodised. Alternatively, the mounting component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the mounting component may be made from gold, silver, or steel. As a further alternative, the mounting component may be made from plastic or some other non- biodegradable material.

[00112] The mounting component 1100 has a body having a portion 1110 that is insertable into a side channel 110 of an elongate component 100, as shown in Figure 12B and C. In particular, the body portion is insertable into the larger second side channel of the first elongate component. The body portion 1110 is slidable along a length of the elongate component 100 in side channel 110. The mounting component has a length that spans substantially an entire length of the elongate component 100

[00113] The mounting component has a first channel 1120 for receiving a first fixture, a second channel 1130 for receiving a second fixture, and a third channel 1140 for receiving a third fixture. The first, second, and third channels 1120, 1130, 1140 are substantially parallel with each other. Each of the channels are provided on different faces. In particular, the first channel 1120 is provided on an upper surface of the mounting component, the second channel 1130 is provided on a side surface of the mounting component, and the third channel 1140 is provided on another side surface of the mounting component. The first channel 1120 is defined by side walls 1121, 1122 and a base portion 1123. The walls 1121, 1122 defining the first channel 1120 of the mounting component each have a lip portion for defining a restricted opening into the channel. The restricted opening is, in particular, for trapping a connector component within the first channel. The walls defining each of the second and third channels 1130, 1140 on the sides of the mounting component, in contrast, do not have lip portions. In other embodiments of the mounting component, the walls defining one or both channels on the sides of the mounting component may be provided with restricted opening into the channel. [00114] As shown in Figure 13D, an electrical insulating material F5 is insertable into the channel on the side of the mounting device 1100 for receiving a lighting device for providing internal lighting to the furniture carcass.

[00115] The body portion 1110 extends from the base portion 1122 defining the first channel 1120. In particular, the body portion 1110 that slidably engages side channel of the elongate component and the channel are provided on opposite sides of the mounting component 1100.

[00116] Figure 14 shows an embodiment of a mounting component 1200 according to another embodiment of the present invention to a fixtures is mountable. The fixture may be a panel for example.

[00117] The mounting component 1200 is a extruded aluminum component. The mounting component may be anodised. Alternatively, the mounting component may be made from a metal including a ductile metal. For example, the mounting component may be made from gold, silver, or steel As a further alternative, the mounting component may be made from plastic or some other non- biodegradable material.

[00118] The mounting component 1200 has a body having a portion 1210 that is insertable into a side channel of an elongate component. In particular, the body portion 1210 is insertable into the smaller second side channel of the first elongate component. The body portion 1210 is slidable along a length of the elongate component in side channel. The mounting component has a length that spans a partial length of the elongate component.

[00119] The mounting component 1200 has a first channel 1220 for receiving the fixture. The second channel 1220 is defined by side walls 1221, 1222 and a base portion 1223. The body portion 1210 extends from the base portion 1122 defining the first channel 1120. In particular, the body portion 1110 that slidably engages side channel of the elongate component and the channel are provided on opposite sides of the mounting component 1100. The body portion extends from one of the wall portions. The mounting component 1200 is in particular used for mounting a back panel of the carcass.

[00120] While various embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not by way of limitation. It will be apparent to a person skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Thus, the present invention should not be limited by any of the above described exemplary embodiments. [00121] The reference in this specification to any prior publication (or information derived from it), or to any matter which is known, is not, and should not be taken as an acknowledgment or admission or any form of suggestion that that prior publication (or information derived from it) or known matter forms part of the common general knowledge in the field of endeavor to which this specification relates.

[00122] Throughout this specification and the claims which follow, unless the context requires otherwise, the word 'comprise', and variations such as 'comprises' and 'comprising', will be understood to imply the inclusion of a stated integer or step or group of integers or steps but not the exclusion of any other integer or step or group of integers or steps.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A furniture carcass comprising: a plurality of elongate extruded components that are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass.

2. The furniture carcass of claim 1, wherein the extruded elongate component is made from aluminium.

3. The furniture carcass of claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of elongate extruded components includes a first elongate extruded component that includes a connector component that is connectable to at least one other elongate extruded component of the plurality of elongate extruded components such that when the at least one other elongate extruded component and the first elongate extruded component are connected via the connector component, the first elongate extruded component and the at least one other extruded component extend from where they are connected in different directions.

4. The furniture carcass of claim 3, wherein a location of the connector component may be adjustable along a length of the first elongate extruded component.

5. The furniture carcass of claim 3 or 4, wherein the connector component is engageable with the first elongate extruded component, wherein the connector component has a first engaging portion for complementarily engaging a portion of the first elongate extruded component.

6. The furniture carcass of any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the first elongate extruded component has a channel and the first engaging portion includes a tongue that is insertable into the channel of the first elongate extruded component.

7. The furniture carcass of claim 6, wherein the first elongate extruded component has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel, and the tongue has at least one stepped portion being locatable between a respective one of the lip portions and a base portion of the channel to thereby trap the tongue within the channel.

8. The furniture carcass of claim 7, wherein the second elongate extruded component is extendable from a rearward section of the tongue, and the at least one stepped portion is provided on a left side and/or right side of the tongue.

9. The furniture carcass of claim 7, wherein the second elongate extruded component is extendable from a rearward section of the tongue, and the at least one stepped portion is provided on a forward side and/or rearward side of the tongue.

24

10. The furniture carcass of claim 7, wherein the second elongate extruded component is extendable centrally from the tongue, and the at least one stepped portion is provided on a forward side and/or rearward side of the tongue.

11. The furniture carcass of any one of claims 3 to 10, wherein the connector component extends, or is extendable, from an end of the first elongate extruded component.

12. The furniture carcass of claim 11, wherein the first engaging portion may include one or more projections and the first elongate extruded component includes one or more apertures at an end thereof, each aperture for receiving a respective one of the one or more projections.

13. The furniture carcass of any one of claims 3 to 12, wherein the connector component has a second engaging portion that extends, or is extendable, substantially transversely from the first elongate extruded component for complementarily engaging a portion of a second elongate extruded component of the plurality of elongate extruded components, such that the second elongate extruded component when connected to the first elongate extruded component via the connector component is substantially transverse to the first elongate extruded component.

14. The furniture carcass of any one of claims 3 to 13, wherein the second elongate extruded component has a channel and the second engaging portion includes a tongue that is insertable into the channel of the second elongate extruded component.

15. The furniture carcass of claim 14, wherein the second elongate extruded component has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel, wherein each wall portion has a lip portion for trapping the tongue within the channel.

16. The furniture carcass of any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the second engaging portion includes one or more projections and the second elongate extruded component includes one or more apertures, each aperture for receiving a respective one of the one or more projections.

17. The furniture carcass of any one of claims 3 to 16, wherein each of the first and second elongate components has a length along a respective x-axis, a thickness along a respective y- axis, and a width along a respective z-axis; and the second elongate extruded component is connectable to the first elongate extruded component such that at least two of the x, y, and z- axes of the second elongate extruded component is perpendicular to at least two of the x, y, and z-axes of the first elongate extruded component.

18. The furniture carcass of claim 17, wherein when the second elongate extruded component is connected to the first elongate extruded component: the x-axis of the first elongate extruded

25 component is perpendicular to the x-axis of the second elongate extruded component; and the y-axis of the first elongate extruded component is perpendicular to the y-axis of the second elongate extruded component.

19. The furniture carcass of claim 18, wherein when the second elongate extruded component is connected to the first elongate extruded component: the z-axis of the first elongate extruded component is parallel to the z-axis of the second elongate extruded component.

20. The furniture carcass of claim 18, wherein when the second elongate extruded component is connected to the first elongate extruded component: the z-axis of the first elongate extruded component is perpendicular to the z-axis of the second elongate extruded component.

21. The furniture carcass of claim 17, wherein when the second elongate extruded component is connected to the first elongate extruded component: the x-axis of the first elongate extruded component is perpendicular to the x-axis of the second elongate extruded component; and the z-axis of the first elongate extruded component is perpendicular to the y-axis of the second elongate extruded component.

22. The furniture carcass of any one of claims 3 to 21, wherein the connector component has a side face with a receiving portion for receiving a fixture and at least one side of one of the elongate extruded components has a receiving portion along its length for receiving another portion of the fixture, wherein the receiving portion of the elongate extruded component and the receiving portion of the connector component preferably form a continuous receiving portion.

23. The furniture carcass of any one of claims 1 to 22, further including a cover for covering a channel of one of the elongate extruded components.

24. The furniture carcass of any one of claims 1 to 23, wherein at least one of the plurality of elongate extruded components includes a mounting component to which a fixture is mountable.

25. The furniture carcass of claim 24, wherein a location of the mounting component is adjustable along a length of the at least one of the plurality of elongate extruded components.

26. The furniture carcass of claim 24 or 25, wherein the mounting component includes a body portion having one or more apertures to which the fixture is mountable, each aperture for receiving a fastener to secure the fixture to the mounting component.

26

27. The furniture carcass of claim 26, wherein the mounting component includes a channel for receiving the fixture and an engaging portion for engaging the channel of the elongate extruded component.

28. The furniture carcass of claim 27, wherein the mounting component has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel and the engaging portion extends from one of the wall portions.

29. The furniture carcass of claim 27, wherein the mounting component has two spaced apart wall portions and a base portion defining the channel, wherein the engaging portion extends from the base portion.

30. A system of components for forming a furniture carcass, the system including a plurality of elongate extruded components which are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein at least one of the elongate extruded component is an elongate extruded component of the furniture carcass of claims 1 to 30.

32. The system of claim 30 or 31, further including a connector component that is connectable to at least one other elongate extruded component of the plurality of elongate extruded components such that when two of the elongate extruded components are connected by the connector component, the two elongate extruded components extend from where they are connected in different directions.

33. The system of claim 32, wherein the connector component is engageable with the first elongate extruded component, wherein the connector component has a first engaging portion for complementarily engaging a portion of the first elongate extruded component.

34. A system of components for forming a furniture carcass from a plurality of elongate components which are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass, the system including a connector component having a first engaging portion for engaging a first one of the elongate components and a second engaging portion for engaging second one of the elongate components, wherein the first elongate and second elongate components, when engaged with the first and second engaging portions respectively, extend in different directions.

35. The system of claim 33 or 34, wherein the first elongate component has a channel and the first engaging portion includes a tongue that is insertable into the channel of the first elongate component.

27

36. The system of claim 35, wherein the first elongate component has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel, wherein each wall portion has a lip portion for trapping the tongue within the channel, and the tongue has at least one stepped portion being locatable between a respective one of the lip portions and a base portion of the channel to thereby trap the tongue within the channel.

37. The system of claim 36, wherein the second elongate component is extendable from a rearward section of the tongue, and the at least one stepped portion is on a left side and/or right side of the tongue.

38. The system of claim 36, wherein the second elongate component is extendable from a rearward section of the tongue, and the at least one stepped portions is on a forward side and/or rearward side of the tongue.

39. The system of claim 36, wherein the second elongate component is extendable centrally from the tongue, and the at least one stepped portion is on a forward side and/or rearward side of the tongue.

40. The system of any one of claims 33 to 39, wherein the connector component is extendable from an end of the first elongate component, the first engaging portion including one or more projections and the first elongate component including one or more apertures, each aperture for receiving a respective one of the one or more projections.

41. The system of any one of claims 32 to 40, wherein the connector component has a second engaging portion that is extendable substantially transversely from the first elongate component for complementarily engaging a portion of a second elongate component of the plurality of elongate extruded components, such that the second elongate component when connected to the first elongate component via the connector component is substantially transverse to the first elongate component.

42. The system of claim 41, wherein the second elongate component has a channel (or guide) and the second engaging portion includes a tongue that is insertable into the channel of the second elongate component.

43 The system of claim 41 or 42, wherein the second engaging portion includes one or more projections and the second elongate component includes one or more apertures, each aperture for receiving a respective one of the one or more projections.

44. The system of any one of claims 32 to 43, wherein the connector component has a side face with a receiving portion for receiving a fixture.

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45. The system of any one of claims 32 to 44, wherein a location of the connector component is adjustable along a length of the first elongate component.

46. The system of any one of claims 30 to 45, further including a mounting component to which a fixture is mountable, the mounting component being locatable in or on one of the elongate components.

47. The system of claim 46, wherein a location of the mounting component is adjustable along a length of the at least one of the plurality of elongate components.

48. A system of components for forming a furniture carcass from a plurality of elongate components which are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass, the system including a mounting component to which a fixture is mountable, the mounting component being locatable in or on one of the elongate components, wherein a location of the mounting component is adjustable along a length of the at least one of the plurality of elongate components.

49. The system of any one of claims 46 to 48, wherein the mounting component is engagable with a channel of the elongate extruded component, and the mounting component is trappable within the channel of the extruded component.

50. The system of any one of claims 46 to 49, wherein the mounting component include a body portion having one or more apertures, each aperture for receiving a fastener to secure the fixture to the mounting component.

51. The system of any one of claims 46 to 49, wherein the mounting component include a channel for receiving the fixture and an engaging portion for engaging the channel of the elongate extruded component wherein the mounting component has two spaced apart wall portions defining the channel and the engaging portion extends from one of the wall portions.

52. The system of any one of claims 46 to 49, wherein the mounting component include a channel for receiving the fixture and an engaging portion for engaging the channel of the elongate extruded component wherein the mounting component has two spaced apart wall portions and a base portion defining the channel, wherein the engaging portion extends from the base portion.

53. The system of any one of claims 30 to 52, further including a cover for covering at least a portion of a channel of one of the elongate components.

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54. A system of components for forming a furniture carcass from a plurality of elongate components which are mutually interconnectable to form the furniture carcass, at least one of the elongate components having a channel into which a connector component to which another one of the elongate components is engageable or a mounting component to which a fixture is mountable, the system including a cover for covering at least a portion of the channel.

55. A customisable furniture carcass comprising a plurality of structural components which are mutually interconnectable in a variety of configurations to form a variety of furniture carcasses.

56. The furniture carcass of claim 55, wherein the structural components includes the components of the furniture carcass of any one of claims 1 to 29.

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