Abstract:
The invention involves a system and method for constructing lawn furniture. The system includes box type beam members as well as a large box structure supported above a ground surface. The box structure provides rigidity and stability to the furniture while also functioning as storage space. The components are formed to ship in a dissembled compact state and snap together with minimal use of fasteners and tools.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     In accordance with 37 C.F.R 1.76, a claim of priority is included in an Application Data Sheet filed concurrently herewith. Accordingly, the present invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/902,634, filed Nov. 11, 2013, entitled, “BLOW MOLDED RESIN FURNITURE HAVING A STABILIZING BOX STRUCTURE”. The contents of each of the above referenced applications are herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     FIELD OF INVENTION 
     The present invention generally relates to resin furniture, and more particularly to a blow molded box structure for providing structural rigidity to resin furniture, which may also be utilized for storage. 
     BACKGROUND INFORMATION 
     Resin furniture, such as patio furniture, is known in the art. Resin furniture is typically injection or blow molded as unitary structures to include at least four elongated legs that extend downwardly from a base seat member. A pair of arms is integrally molded to the legs to secure the back member in position. These structures typically are formed as open L-shaped beams, and not enclosed box structures, to allow for nesting of finished assemblies. A drawback to this construction relates to rigidity and stability. The open beams and the elongated legs create a structure that has very limited weight capacity. In addition, the structures feel unstable by allowing flexure of the structure, which creates uneasiness and a feeling that the structure may collapse to those using the furniture. 
     It is also known to provide storage within a piece of furniture. Typically, furniture with storage is provided in the form of a deck box that resembles a large bench. In a deck box, storage is provided in the form of a large box, which sets directly on the ground surface and a pivoting lid with sufficient strength to allow a person or two to sit on the lid. A downside to this type of seating is the requirement of a large area of very flat surface for the box structure. Placing the box structure on uneven ground can cause pivoting or tipping of the structure when users sit on the top surface. In addition, the deck boxes are not sufficiently portable for use as patio furniture where users move furniture into groupings, which are often changed. 
     Thus, there is a need in the art for patio furniture that is molded to include additional rigidity provided by box beam members. The furniture should also include a large stabilizing box structure that provides stability to the furniture and doubles as storage space. In addition, the box structure should be supported above the ground surface by a plurality of legs, which allow the structure to be evenly supported even upon uneven ground surfaces. 
     Finally, there are ergonomic needs that a resin furniture system must satisfy in order to achieve acceptance by the end user. The resin furniture system must be easily and quickly assembled using minimal hardware and requiring a minimal number of tools. Further, the resin furniture system should not require excessive strength to assemble or include heavy component parts. Moreover, the resin furniture system must assemble together in such a way so as not to detract from the aesthetic appearance of the assembled resin furniture. 
     Thus, the present invention provides a resin furniture system that utilizes a stabilizing box structure which overcomes the disadvantages of prior art lawn or patio furniture systems. The blow molded resin furniture system of the present invention not only provides for relative ease in assembly and increased weight capacity and rigidity, it also permits the stabilizing box structure to be utilized for storage space. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Briefly, the invention involves a system and method for constructing lawn furniture. The system includes box type beam members, as well as a large box structure supported above a ground surface. The box structure provides rigidity and stability to the furniture while also functioning as storage space. The components are formed to ship in a dissembled compact state and snap together with minimal use of fasteners and tools. 
     Accordingly, it is an objective of the present invention to provide a system for constructing blow molded resin furniture. 
     It is a further objective of the present invention to provide a base box structure upon which the resin furniture system is based. 
     It is yet a further objective of the present invention to provide a box structure, which, in addition to providing structure to the furniture, provides storage space. 
     It is another objective of the instant invention to provide a system for constructing blow molded resin furniture that can be utilized across a wide variety of furniture types including chairs, loveseats, couches, etc. 
     Other objectives and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. The drawings constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIG. 1  is a top right perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a top rear perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
         FIG. 3  is a top right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a rear view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a box beam end structure illustrating a side panel for the box structure and a gutter system for keeping water out of the box structure; 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the end structure shown in  FIG. 5  illustrating assembly connection points; 
         FIG. 7  is a side view illustrating assembly of the front and rear panels of the box structure to the end structure; 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of the assembly illustrated in  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view illustrating assembly of the back panel to the end structures; 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view illustrating further assembly of the back panel to the end structures; 
         FIG. 11  is a bottom perspective view illustrating assembly of a base panel to the box structure; 
         FIG. 12  is a perspective view illustrating the bottom side of the seat panel of the present invention; 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , illustrating access to the storage area; 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , illustrating access to the storage area; 
         FIG. 15  is a perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , illustrating access to the storage area; 
         FIG. 16  is a partial perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , illustrating access to the storage area; 
         FIG. 17  is a top right perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention in the form of a couch or loveseat; 
         FIG. 18  is a rear perspective view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 17 ; 
         FIG. 19  is a top right perspective view illustrating one of the steps to access the internal storage compartment of this embodiment; 
         FIG. 20  is a top right perspective view illustrating a pivotal seat member for access to the internal storage compartment; 
         FIG. 21  illustrates an alternative embodiment of the first end structure; 
         FIG. 22  illustrates an alternative embodiment of the second end structure; 
         FIG. 23  is a side view illustrating assembly of the front and rear panels of the box structure to the end structure; 
         FIG. 24  is a perspective view illustrating assembly of the front and rear panels of the box structure to the end structure; 
         FIG. 25  is a bottom perspective view illustrating assembly of a base panel to the box structure; 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view illustrating the bottom side of one embodiment of the seat panel of the present invention; 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view illustrating the bottom side of one embodiment of the seat panel of the present invention; 
         FIG. 28  is a partial perspective view, illustrating installation of the seat member; 
         FIG. 29  is a partial perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 28 , illustrating the seat member in an unlatched position for accessing the storage area; 
         FIG. 30  is a partial perspective view of the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , illustrating the seat panel in a latched position; 
         FIG. 31  is a rear perspective view illustrating assembly of the back panel; 
         FIG. 32  is a rear perspective view illustrating assembly of the back panel; 
         FIG. 33  is a rear perspective view illustrating assembly of the back panel; 
         FIG. 34  is a rear perspective view illustrating assembly of the back panel; 
         FIG. 35  is a rear view illustrating an assembled back panel; 
         FIG. 36  is a partial section view taken along lines  36 - 36  of  FIG. 35 , illustrating one embodiment of the connection between the back panel and the side panels; 
         FIG. 37  is a front perspective view illustrating access to the interior storage compartment; 
         FIG. 38  is a front perspective view illustrating access to the interior storage compartment; 
         FIG. 39  is a front view of an alternative embodiment of the present device in the form of a couch or love seat; 
         FIG. 40  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 39 ; 
         FIG. 41  is an end view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 39 ; 
         FIG. 42  is a rear view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 39 ; 
         FIG. 43  is a partial section view taken along lines  43 - 43  of  FIG. 42 , illustrating engagement between the panels that form the sides of the structural enclosure; 
         FIG. 44  is a partial exploded view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 39 ; 
         FIG. 45  is a partial exploded view illustrating assembly of the base panel; 
         FIG. 46  is a bottom perspective view illustrating the base panel in the assembled position; 
         FIG. 47  is a partial perspective view illustrating assembly of the back panel; 
         FIG. 48  is a rear perspective view illustrating assembly of the back panel; 
         FIG. 49  is a rear perspective view illustrating assembly of the back panel; 
         FIG. 50  is a rear perspective view illustrating assembly of the back panel; 
         FIG. 51  is a front perspective view illustrating assembly of the seat panel; 
         FIG. 52  is a front perspective view illustrating assembly of the seat panel; 
         FIG. 53  is a rear view illustrating the assembled back panel; 
         FIG. 54  is a partial section view taken along lines  54 - 54  of  FIG. 53 , illustrating the interlocking cooperation between the side panels; 
         FIG. 55  is a front perspective view illustrating operation of the seat panel to provide access to the internal storage area; 
         FIG. 56  is a front perspective view illustrating operation of the seat panel to provide access to the internal storage area; 
         FIG. 57  is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a pivoting front panel; 
         FIG. 58  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 59  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 60  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 57 ; 
         FIG. 61  is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a pivoting side panel; 
         FIG. 62  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 61 ; 
         FIG. 63  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 61 ; 
         FIG. 64  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 61 ; 
         FIG. 65  is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with two pivoting side panels; 
         FIG. 66  is a top right perspective view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 65 ; 
         FIG. 67  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 65 ; 
         FIG. 68  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 65 ; 
         FIG. 69  is a left side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 65 ; 
         FIG. 70  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 65 ; 
         FIG. 71  is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a sliding drawer within the storage space; 
         FIG. 72  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 71 ; 
         FIG. 73  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 71 ; 
         FIG. 74  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 71 ; 
         FIG. 75  is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a sliding drawer within the storage space; 
         FIG. 76  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 75 ; 
         FIG. 77  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 75 ; 
         FIG. 78  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 75 ; 
         FIG. 79  is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a sliding drawer within the storage space; 
         FIG. 80  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 79 ; 
         FIG. 81  is a rear view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 79 ; 
         FIG. 82  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 79 ; 
         FIG. 83  is a left side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 79 ; 
         FIG. 84  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 79 ; 
         FIG. 85  is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a sliding drawer within the storage space; 
         FIG. 86  is a perspective view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 85 ; 
         FIG. 87  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 85 ; 
         FIG. 88  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 85 ; 
         FIG. 89  is a left side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 85 ; 
         FIG. 90  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 85 ; 
         FIG. 91  is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a sliding drawer within the storage space; 
         FIG. 92  is a perspective view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 91 ; 
         FIG. 93  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 91 ; 
         FIG. 94  is a rear view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 91 ; 
         FIG. 95  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 91 ; 
         FIG. 96  is a bottom view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 91 ; 
         FIG. 97  is a left side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 91 ; 
         FIG. 98  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 91 ; 
         FIG. 99  is a top left perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a pivoting seat member for providing access to the storage space; 
         FIG. 100  is a top right perspective view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 99 ; 
         FIG. 101  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 99 ; 
         FIG. 102  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 99 ; 
         FIG. 103  is a left side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 99 ; 
         FIG. 104  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 99 ; 
         FIG. 105  is a top right perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the present invention, illustrated with a pivoting seat member for providing access to the storage space; 
         FIG. 106  is a front view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 105 ; 
         FIG. 107  is a top view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 105 ; 
         FIG. 108  is a left side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 105 ; 
         FIG. 109  is a right side view of the embodiment illustrated in  FIG. 105 . 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a presently preferred embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated. 
     Referring generally to  FIGS. 1-16 , a resin furniture system  10  which provides increased rigidity, weight capacity and storage is illustrated. The system includes a box structure  12  about which the remaining components of the furniture are secured or formed to create a structurally integrated piece of furniture. In general, a piece of furniture in the form of a chair, as illustrated in  FIG. 1 , includes the box structure  12  formed by a first end structure  14 , a second end structure  16 , a front panel  18 , rear panel  20 , back panel  22 , base panel  24  and seat panel  26 . The first and second end structures  14 ,  16 , as well as the panel members  18 ,  20 ,  22 ,  24  ( FIG. 11 ) and  26 , are preferably formed from a resin plastic material by the process of blow molding or injection molding to be fully enclosed hollow structural pieces. Tack offs  28  of various sizes and shapes may be utilized to connect the walls that form the enclosed end structures and panels as desired for additional rigidity and structural integrity. In this manner, the same end structures and assembly techniques can be utilized to construct a family of furniture that includes different lengths; and thus, can accommodate a different number of persons. As shown,  FIGS. 1 and 2  illustrate a chair while  FIGS. 3 and 4  illustrate a couch or loveseat utilizing the same end structures and panels of different length. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , an end structure  14 ,  16  is illustrated. The end structures  14 ,  16  are substantially alike constructed mirror images of one another; and thus, the present disclosure will focus on the structural elements and positioning of the second end structure  16  with those skilled in the art being capable of understanding the principles necessary to construct the mirror image thereof for end structure  14 . 
     The end structure  16  includes a first side panel  30 . The first side panel includes an inner wall  32 , an outer wall  34  ( FIG. 11 ), and a plurality of edge walls  36  to create an enclosed hollow panel. Tack offs  28  are positioned in rows to connect the inner and outer walls  32 ,  34  for increased structural integrity. Also included on the inner wall  32  are keyhole slots  38 , round dovetail receivers  40 , threaded apertures  42 , rain gutter  44 , hinge slot  45  and base panel wedge locks  46 ,  47 . Legs  48  extend outwardly from the lower edge wall  36  while armrest stands  50  extend outwardly from an upper edge wall  36  to support the armrest  52 . The outer wall  34  ( FIG. 11 ) is generally smooth and may include aesthetically enhancing features such as faux wicker, faux wood grain, wood slats or the like integrally molded into the resin. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7-12 , assembly of the resin furniture is illustrated with one end structure omitted for clarity. In general, the first and second end structures  14 ,  16  are supported in a vertical orientation so that front panel  18 , which includes keys  54  sized and shaped to cooperate with keyhole slots  38 , is secured to both end structures  14 ,  16 . In operation, the keys  54  are inserted into the keyhole slots  38  and slid in a downward direction to secure the front panel  18  into position. The wedge shape of the keys  54  insures a tight inter-fitting relationship without slack between the panels. The rear panel  20  includes a round dovetail  56  and a fastener tab  58 . In operation, the round dovetail  56  is inserted into the round dovetail receivers  40 , allowing the panel to be rotated until the apertures in the tabs  58  align with the threaded apertures  42 . A threaded fastener (not shown) is then utilized to secure the tab to the respective end structure  14 ,  16 . 
       FIGS. 7-10  illustrate assembly of the back panel  22  to the end structures  14 ,  16 . The back panel is formed as an enclosed hollow panel member including a front wall  60 , a rear wall  62  and edge walls  64 . The side edge walls  64  include a round dovetail  56  and a fastener tab  58  integrally formed thereto. In operation, the round dovetail  56  is slid into the round dovetail receivers  40  positioned on the inner wall  32  of the arm stands  50  and pulled upwardly to engage the dovetail to the round dovetail receivers  40 , allowing rotation between the two panels. The fastener tabs  58  align with threaded apertures  42 . Plastic fasteners are then utilized to secure the back panel into position. 
     Referring to  FIG. 11 , assembly of the bottom panel  24  is illustrated. In general, the bottom panel is constructed as a hollow enclosed member by the process of blow molding, and may include outwardly extending posts (not shown) which cooperate with the end structures  14 ,  16  or front and rear panels  18 ,  20 . In the preferred embodiment, the bottom panel  24  is secured to furniture structure by inverting the furniture structure for access to the bottom thereof. The bottom panel  24  is placed against the wedge locks  46 ,  47  and pressed until the bottom panel passes the lower wedge locks  47  and contacts the upper wedge locks  46 . Fasteners or the like may be utilized to secure the bottom panel if desired. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12-16 , construction, installation and operation of the seat panel  26  is illustrated. In general, the seat panel  26  is formed as a hollow structure to include an inner wall  66 , an outer wall  68 , and edge walls  70 . The inner wall  66  includes tack offs  28  as well as a metal pocket  78  to provide structural integrity to the seat panel  26 . The tack offs  28  connect the inner and outer walls  66 ,  68  together, while the pocket  78  is sized to accept a steel bar (not shown). In a preferred embodiment, the pocket  78  is constructed and arranged to allow for a snap fit of the steel bar into the pocket. However, it should be noted that fasteners may be used in addition to or in place of the snap fit arrangement without departing from the scope of the invention. Snap detents  80  are formed as protuberances on the inner wall  66  for cooperation with the rear panel  20  in operation to hold the seat panel  26  in a closed position. A hand grip  76  is formed into the inner wall  66  for use in manipulating the seat panel between open and closed positions. Hinge pins  72  are provided along the edge wall  70  for sliding and pivoting connection to the elongated hinge slot  45  ( FIG. 6 ) positioned on the inner wall  32  of the end structures  14 ,  16 . In operation, the seat panel  26  is tilted to insert one hinge pin  72  into a hinge slot  45 . The seat panel is pressed downwardly until the opposite hinge pin engages the hinge slot, allowing the seat panel to slide back and forth for the length of the slot, as illustrated in  FIGS. 13 and 14 , while being pivotable to allow access to the inner portion/storage area  82  of the box structure  12 . The inner portion  82  of the box structure  12  can be utilized for weather resistant storage of any object that will fit within the inner portion. One example would be storage of cushions for the chair (not shown). The inner portion, thereby, provides a dry and insect resistant area for storage. In this manner, cushions and other items prone to mold growth, when not enclosed, can be stored within the chair for extended periods of time and taken out as needed for use. The detents  80  cooperate with the rear panel  20  to hold the seat panel in the rearward position. Pulling the seat panel  26  forward allows the rotation of the seat panel for access to the inner portion/storage area  82  within the structural box  12 . When in a closed position, the rain gutter  44  ( FIG. 5 ) on the inner wall  32  of the end structure  14 ,  16  provides support to the side portions of the seat panel  26  while also cooperating with the rain gutter  74  positioned on the inner wall  66  of the seat panel  26  to channel water away from the inner portion  82  of the box structure  12  to keep contents stored therein dry. In addition, a tortuous path  84  ( FIG. 43 ) may be provided between the end structures and the front and rear panels to reduce the ability of insects finding their way into the inner portion. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 17-20 and 39-56 , an alternative embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. This embodiment provides a couch or loveseat  90  including an elongated seat whereby more than one person may sit upon the resin structure while storage is provided within the box structure  12 . The box structure provides increased rigidity, weight capacity and storage. The system includes a box structure  12  about which the remaining components of the couch  90  are secured or formed to create a structurally integrated piece of furniture. As illustrated in  FIGS. 17-20 and 39-56 , the box structure  12  is formed by a first end structure  14 , a second end structure  16 , a front panel  118 , rear panel  120 , back panel  122 , base panel  124  and seat panel  126 . The first and second end structures  14 ,  16 , as well as the panel members  118 ,  120 ,  122 ,  124  and  126 , are preferably formed from a resin plastic material by the process of blow molding or injection molding to be fully enclosed hollow structural pieces. Tack offs  28  of various sizes and shapes may be utilized to connect the walls that form the enclosed end structures and panels as desired for additional rigidity and structural integrity. In this manner, the same end structures and assembly techniques can be utilized to construct a family of furniture that includes different lengths; and thus, can accommodate a different number of persons. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 21 and 22 , an end structure  14 ,  16  is illustrated. The end structures  14 ,  16  are substantially alike constructed mirror images of one another; and thus, the present disclosure will focus on the structural elements and positioning of the second end structure  16 , with those skilled in the art being capable of understanding the principles necessary to construct the mirror image thereof for end structure  14 . 
     The end structure  16  includes a first side panel  30 . ( FIG. 41 ) The first side panel includes an inner wall  32 , an outer wall  34  ( FIG. 11 ), and a plurality of edge walls  36  to create an enclosed hollow panel. Tack offs  28  are positioned in rows to connect the inner and outer walls  32 ,  34  for increased structural integrity. Also included on the inner wall  32  are docking slots  92 , round dovetail receivers  40 , threaded apertures  42 , rain gutter  44 , hinge slot  45 , offset slot  94 , seat panel catch  96  and base panel wedge lock  46 . Legs  48  extend outwardly from the lower edge wall  36  while armrest stands  50  extend outwardly from an upper edge wall  36  to support the armrest  52 . The outer wall  34  ( FIG. 11 ) is generally smooth and may include aesthetically enhancing features such as faux wicker, faux wood grain, wood slats or the like integrally molded into the resin. In general, the end structures secure and support all of the remaining panels utilized to construct the furniture. The inner and outer walls enclose the structure for rigidity, strength and weather resistance while the legs support the panels, and thus, the box structure above the ground surface for stability, while also providing weather and insect resistance. The armrest stands  50  and armrests  52  also provide an additional box structure suitable for supporting the panels and weight associated with people and objects which may occupy the furniture. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 23-38 and 43-56 , assembly of the resin furniture is illustrated with one end structure omitted for clarity. In general, the first and second end structures  14 ,  16  are supported in a vertical orientation so that front panel  18 ,  118 , which includes bosses  91  and flanges  93  sized and shaped to cooperate with docking slots  92 , is secured to both end structures  14 ,  16 . In operation, the bosses  91  and flanges  93  are inserted into the docking slots  92  and threaded fasteners  95  are used to secure the front panel  118 , into position. The threaded fasteners  95  are also preferably constructed from plastic to include an oversized head portion  97  and a threaded stem. The overlapping cooperation between the bosses and the docking slots create a tortuous path  84  ( FIG. 43 ) for a tight inter-fitting relationship without slack between the panels that resists water and insect penetration. The flanges  93  are oriented an angle with respect to both panels to pull the panels into a tight inter-fitting relationship while providing resistance to be pulled apart from multiple directions. An aperture  99  is provided in each flange for cooperation with the threaded fastener  95 . A hand tool  11  may be utilized to assemble the furniture on a desired site, permitting the furniture to be shipped in a disassembled state to reduce shipping costs. 
       FIGS. 31-36 and 47-54  illustrate assembly of the back panel  22 ,  122  to the end structures  14 ,  16 . The back panel is formed as an enclosed hollow panel member including a front wall  60 , a rear wall  62  and edge walls  64 . The side edge walls  64  include a round dovetail  56  and a fastener tab  58  integrally formed thereto. In operation, the round dovetail  56  is slid into the round dovetail receivers  40  positioned on the inner wall  32  of the arm stands  50  and pulled upwardly to engage the dovetail  56  to the dovetail receiver  40 , securing the panels together while allowing rotation between the two panels. The panel is rotated so that the fastener tabs  58  align with the threaded apertures  42 . Plastic fasteners  95  are then utilized to secure the back panel  22 ,  122  into position. Covers  13  are then utilized to cover the fastener  95  and tab  58  for aesthetic purposes. In a preferred embodiment, the covers are constructed and arranged to be snapped into position, whereby spring tabs  15  hold the cover in position. The tabs  93  are oriented at an angle with respect to both panels to pull the panels into a tight inter-fitting relationship while providing resistance to be pulled apart from multiple directions. An aperture  99  is provided in each tab for cooperation with the threaded fastener  95 . It should also be noted that some embodiments include a support post  17  ( FIG. 48 ) integrally formed onto a bottom edge surface for supporting additional weight on wider back panels  122 . The support post is generally an enclosed structure sized to extend downwardly to the upper surface of the rear panel  120 . A hand tool  11  may be utilized to assemble the furniture on a desired site; permitting the furniture to be shipped in a disassembled state to reduce shipping costs. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 25, 45 and 46 , assembly of the bottom panel  24 ,  124  is illustrated. In general, the bottom panel is constructed as a hollow enclosed member by the process of blow molding, and may include outwardly extending pins  21  and posts  23  which cooperate with the end structures  14 ,  16  as well as the front and rear panels  18 ,  118 ,  20 ,  120 . In the preferred embodiment, the bottom panel  24 ,  124  is secured to the furniture structure by inverting the furniture structure for access to the bottom area thereof. The pins  21  of the bottom panel  24 ,  124  are guided into the offset slots  94  until reaching the end of the offset slot where a side shift of the bottom panel causes the pins to snap past a detent  65  which holds the pins in position, allowing the bottom panel to be rotated until the posts  23  contact the wedge locks  46 ,  47 . Continued pressure causes the inner wall of the end panels to flex sufficiently to allow the bottom panel to pass the lower wedge locks  47  and come into contact with the upper wedge locks  46 , securing the bottom panel in position. In an alternative embodiment, fasteners or the like may be utilized to secure the bottom panel into position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12-20, 26-38 and 51-56 , construction, installation and operation of the seat panel  26 ,  126  is illustrated. In general, the seat panel  26 ,  126  is formed as a hollow structure to include an inner wall  66 ,  166 , an outer wall  68 ,  168 , and edge walls  70 . The inner wall  66 ,  166  includes tack offs  28  as well as a metal pocket  78  to provide structural integrity to the seat panel  26 ,  126 . The tack offs  28  connect the inner and outer walls  66 ,  68  together, or place them in close proximity, while the pocket is sized to accept a steel bar  25 . In a preferred embodiment, the pocket  78  is constructed and arranged to allow for a snap fit of the steel bar  25  into the pocket  78 . However, it should be noted that fasteners may be used in addition to or in place of the snap fit arrangement without departing from the scope of the invention. Snap detents  80  are formed as protuberances on the edge walls  70  for cooperation with the seat panel catch  96  positioned on the inner surface of the end panels  14 ,  16  to hold the seat panel  26 ,  126  in a releasably closed position. A hand grip  76  is formed into the inner wall  66  for use in manipulating the seat panel between open and closed positions. Hinge pins  72  are provided along the edge wall  70  for sliding and pivoting connection to the elongated hinge slot  45  positioned on the inner wall  32  of the end structures  14 ,  16 . In operation, the seat panel  26 ,  126  is tilted to insert one hinge pin  72  into a hinge slot  45  ( FIG. 28, 44, 51 ). The seat panel is pressed downwardly until the opposite hinge pin  72  engages the hinge slot  45 , allowing the seat panel to slide back and forth for the length of the hinge slot, as illustrated in  FIGS. 29-30 and 52-55 , while being pivotable to allow access to the inner portion  82  of the box structure  12 . The inner portion  82  of the box structure  12  can be utilized for weather resistant storage of any object that will fit within the inner portion. One example would be storage of cushions for the chair (not shown). The inner portion, thereby, provides a dry and insect resistant area for storage. In this manner, cushions and other items prone to mold growth, when not enclosed, can be stored within the chair for extended periods of time and taken out as needed for use. The detents  80  cooperate with the panel catches  96  to hold the seat panel in the rearward position. Pulling the seat panel  26 ,  126  forward ( FIGS. 37-55 ) allows the rotation of the seat panel for access to the inner portion/storage area  82  within the structural box  12 . When in a closed position, the rain gutter  44  ( FIG. 54 ) on the inner wall  32  of the end structure  14 ,  16  provides support to the side portions of the seat panel  26  while also cooperating with the rain gutter bead  74  positioned on the inner wall  66  of the seat panel  26 ,  126  to channel water away from the inner portion of the box structure  12  to keep contents stored therein dry. In addition, a tortuous path  84  ( FIG. 43 ) may be provided between the end structures and the front and rear panels to reduce the ability of insects finding their way into the inner portion. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 61-70 , alternative embodiments of the present device are illustrated. These embodiments are constructed to be the same as the previous embodiment, with the addition of at least one pivoting side door  35  which provides access to the internal storage area  82 . Each pivoting side door  35  includes a hinge assembly, which may be the same or similar to the hinge assembly utilized for seat member  26 ,  126 . Catch member  37  is preferably formed to an edge of each pivoting assembly for cooperation with an end member for holding the pivoting door in a releasably closed position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 71-94 , alternative embodiments of the present device are illustrated. These embodiments are constructed to be substantially the same as the previous embodiments with the addition of at least one drawer assembly  61 . The drawer assembly may be slidably secured to extend outwardly from any side or end panel member without departing from the scope of the invention. In a preferred embodiment, the drawer assembly  61  includes a front panel  63  which may include a handle  65  suitable for grasping by hand. The front panel is suitably secured to the drawer having a bottom panel  67  and side walls  69 . The drawer assembly may also be provided with cooperating slide members  77  ( FIG. 79 ). Alternatively, the drawer assemblies may be constructed and arranged to slide within tracks  71  formed on the inner surface of the end panel members or front and rear panel members. In this manner the drawers are contained in their sliding movement without the need for complex slide members. Snap locks  73  or the like may also be provided to hold the drawers in a normally closed position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 99-109 , alternative embodiments of the present device are illustrated. These embodiments are constructed to be substantially the same as the previous embodiments with the exception of form. These chairs and love seats are constructed to appear as Adirondack chairs, yet include the same box structure  12  and under seat storage area  82  as the previous embodiments. Like the previous embodiments, these embodiments are constructed from plastic components formed by the process of blow molding and include surface texture. In these embodiments, the surface texture causes the furniture to appear to be constructed from a plurality of boards like a standard Adirondack chair. Like the other embodiment, these embodiments may utilize the pivoting seat member  26 ,  126 , drawer assembly  61  or pivoting panel  35  to provide access to the storage area  82  within the box structure  12 . 
     Thus, a resin furniture system having a structural box assembly has been illustrated. It is to be understood that while a certain form of the invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement of parts herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention, and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown and described in the specification. 
     One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objects and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. Any compounds, methods, procedures and techniques described herein are presently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.