Modular walls incorporating recessed, extendable furniture

A modular wall includes a plurality of inter-connectable and interchangeable wall modules. At least one of the wall modules includes a recessed, extendable piece of furniture, such as a bed, desk, table, work surface or chair. When in a closed configuration, the furniture folds into or otherwise resides within a recessed pocket in the modular wall. When in the closed configuration, the outer surface of the furniture forms an exterior surface of the wall module; thereby, concealing the furniture seamlessly into the modular wall. The exterior surface can comprise one or more exterior interchangeable tiles.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention generally relates to modular wall systems. More specifically, the present invention relates to modular wall systems including recessed, extendable furniture, such as beds, desks, and chairs.

2. Background and Relevant Art

Office space can be relatively expensive be due to the basic costs of the location and size of the office space. In addition to these costs, an organization may incur further expense configuring the office space in a desirable layout. An organization might purchase or rent a large open space in a building, and then subdivide or partition the open space into various offices, conference rooms, or cubicles. Rather than having to find new office space and move as an organization's needs change, it is often desirable to reconfigure the existing office space. Many organizations address their configuration and reconfiguration issues by dividing large, open office spaces into individual work areas using modular wall segments (or wall modules) and partitions.

In particular, at least one advantage of modular wall systems is that they are relatively easy to configure. In addition, modular wall systems can be less expensive to set up and can allow for reconfiguration more easily than more permanently constructed office dividers. For example, an organization can construct a set of offices and a conference area within a larger space in a relatively short period of time with the use of modular wall systems. If office space needs change, the organization can readily reconfigure the space.

In general, modular office partitions typically include a series of individual wall modules (and/or panels). The individual wall modules are typically free-standing or rigidly attached to one or more support structures. In particular, a manufacturer or assembler can usually align and join the various wall modules together to form an office, a room, a hallway, or otherwise divide an open space.

While conventional modular wall systems can provide various advantages, such as those described above, conventional modular wall systems are limited in design choices. For example, conventional modular wall systems typically do not allow for inclusion of built-in extendable objects (such as beds or desks) within a wall module. This is not surprising considering that conventional modular walls are typically only four inches wide, and thus, provide no room for housing such objects.

Wall beds (i.e. Murphy beds) are often built into a traditional solid wall or provided within a separate piece of furniture such as a bookcase. When built into a solid wall, a wall bed becomes a permanent feature of a room, and thus, does not allow for reconfiguration. Furthermore, although a wall bed provided within a separate piece of furniture can be rearranged within, or removed, from a room, the furniture is separate from the wall and therefore occupies a large area of space within the room.

Accordingly, there are a number of disadvantages with conventional wall systems that can be addressed.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Implementations of the present invention solve one or more of the foregoing or other problems in the art with systems, methods, and apparatus for incorporating furniture (e.g., beds, desks, chairs) into modular walls. In particular, one or more implementations include modular walls having recessed, extendable furniture incorporated therein. The recessed, extendable furniture can move between a closed position and an open or extended position. When in the closed position, the furniture is concealed within the modular wall. Furthermore, these systems and components enable quick and efficient assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration of wall modules including furniture with great ease. Accordingly, implementations of the present invention can be easily adapted to the environment of use and provide a number of secure mounting options.

For example, an implementation of a wall module includes a pair of vertical frame brackets configured to removably couple the wall module to one or more additional wall modules to form a reconfigurable modular wall. The wall module further includes an interior wall connecting the pair vertical frame brackets together. The interior wall defines a pocket recessed behind the pair of vertical frame brackets. Also, the wall module includes a recessed, extendable piece of furniture. The recessed, extendable piece of furniture is configured to be contained within the pocket when in a recessed position. The recessed, extendable piece of furniture is also configured to extend from the pocket to a generally horizontal position when in an extended position.

Additionally, another implementation of a wall module includes an interior frame comprising one or more vertical frame brackets and one or more horizontal frame brackets. The interior frame is configured to removably couple the wall module to one or more additional wall modules to form a reconfigurable modular wall. The wall module further includes a recessed, extendable bed pivotally coupled directly to the interior frame. The recessed, extendable bed is configured to move between a recessed position within the wall module and an extended position in which the recessed, extendable bed extends generally horizontally from the wall module.

In addition to the foregoing, an implementation of a modular wall includes a plurality of wall modules. Each of the wall modules includes an interior frame and one or exterior tiles removably coupled to the interior frame. The interior frames of each of the wall modules allow the wall modules to be selectively connected to an interior frame of another wall module to form the modular wall. Additionally, the interior frames of each of the wall modules allow the wall modules to be selectively repositioned or rearranged relative to each other. The modular wall further includes a recessed, extendable piece of furniture positioned in at least one wall module of the plurality of wall modules. The recessed, extendable piece of furniture is configured to move between a recessed position within the at least one wall module and an extended position in which the recessed, extendable piece of furniture extends generally horizontally from the at least one wall module.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention extends to systems, methods, and apparatus for incorporating furniture (e.g., beds, desks, chairs) into modular walls. In particular, one or more implementations include modular walls having recessed, extendable furniture incorporated therein. The recessed, extendable furniture can move between a closed position and an open or extended position. When in the closed position, the furniture is concealed within the modular wall. Furthermore, these systems and components enable quick and efficient assembly, disassembly, and reconfiguration of wall modules including furniture with great ease. Accordingly, implementations of the present invention can be easily adapted to the environment of use and provide a number of secure mounting options.

In particular, implementations of the present invention provide modular wall systems with increased width. The increased width can provide space within the wall for housing recessed, extendable furniture therein. Thus, when in a closed or storage configuration, the furniture folds into or otherwise resides within a recessed pocket in the modular wall. When in the closed or storage configuration, the outer surface of the furniture forms an exterior surface of the wall module; thereby, concealing the furniture seamlessly into the modular wall. The exterior surface can comprise one or more exterior interchangeable tiles. When in an open or deployed position, the furniture can fold or otherwise extend out of the recessed pocket in the modular wall.

The recessed, extendable furniture can comprise a bed, a shelf, a desk, bunk beds, a chair, a table, or other furniture. Indeed, one will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that the hardware, systems, and methods can allow an installer to seamlessly incorporate a wide variety of furniture within a modular wall. In particular, implementations of the present invention can allow an installer to incorporate furniture within a modular wall without having to add external framework or other aesthetically unpleasing hardware.

Throughout this specification, reference is made to wall modules of a modular wall system. A wall module can comprise an individual section of the modular wall system which a manufacturer can attach and remove independently of other wall module sections of the modular wall system. For example, an existing installed wall system that does not include a wall module having recessed, extendable furniture may be retrofitted with a wall module having recessed, extendable furniture according to one or more implementations of the present invention. In particular, a user can replace an existing wall module in the installed wall without requiring the disassembly of the wall system. The invention, however, is not limited to retrofitting existing walls, but also extends to modular wall installations that include wall modules having recessed, extendable furniture at the time of initial installation.

For example,FIG. 1AandFIG. 1Billustrate a modular wall100consisting of a plurality of wall modules102a,102b,104a. Each of wall modules102a,102b,104aremovably connect to any of the other wall modules102a,102b,104a. Accordingly, a designer can reconfigure modular wall100by interchanging or replacing any wall module102a,102b,104a.

Each wall module102a,102b,104acan comprise an interior frame and one or more exterior tiles106connected to one or both sides of the wall module. Each wall module102a,102b,104aincludes exterior tiles106on each side of the wall module102a,102b,104a. Thus, modular wall100can divide a room or other space. In alternative implementations, one side of the modular wall100can include no tiles, for example, if the modular wall100is positioned against another structure, such as a structural wall.

In any event, as shown byFIG. 1AandFIG. 1B, wall module104acan include a recessed, extendable piece of furniture, in this case a recessed, extendable bed110. As shown byFIG. 1A, when in the closed or storage position, the recessed, extendable bed110can seamlessly fit within the modular wall100. In particular, the external tile(s)106aattached to the underside of the recessed, extendable bed110can help ensure that the wall module104aappears similar to the wall modules102a,102bwithout recessed, extendable furniture.

FIG. 1Aillustrates that the recessed, extendable bed110includes a single exterior tile106aattached thereto. In alternative implementations, the recessed, extendable bed110can have a plurality of external tiles106aattached thereto. Whether single or multiple tiles are used, the external tiles106acan remain interchangeable.FIG. 1Afurther illustrates that the wall module104acan include an external tile106bpositioned above the recessed, extendable bed110. In any event, in one or more implementations all of the external tiles106,106a,106bcan align so as to be substantially flush.

Referring now specifically toFIG. 1B, the recessed, extendable bed110is shown in the deployed or extended position. As shown, the recessed, extendable bed110can extend out from a pocket112within the wall module104a. The pocket112thus can allow the exterior tile106aon the underside of the recessed, extendable bed110to align flush with the exterior tiles106of adjacent wall modules102a,102bas shown byFIG. 1A.

The recessed, extendable bed110can include a bed frame114, a mattress116, one or more supports (e.g., legs118), and one more lifting and lowering mechanisms120. As explained in greater detail below, the bed frame114can couple directly to the interior frame of wall module104a. Similarly, lifting and lowering mechanisms120can also couple to, and extend between, the interior frame of the wall module104aand the bed frame114.

The lifting and lowering mechanism120can comprise a pneumatic piston, a gas spring, a torsion spring or other mechanism. One will appreciate that mechanism120can be configured in at least one implementation for storing energy as the recessed, extendable bed110is lowered, and for releasing energy as the recessed, extendable bed110is raised. Thus, the lifting and lowering mechanism120can limit how quickly the recessed, extendable bed110lowers towards the floor. Furthermore, the lifting and lowering mechanism120can aid in raising the recessed, extendable bed110from the extended position to the storage or recessed position.

Once lowered into a generally horizontal configuration, one or more supports can support the recessed, extendable bed110from the floor. For example,FIG. 1Billustrate that legs118can support the recessed, extendable bed110from the floor. As explained in greater detail below, the legs118can pivot down from corners of the bed frame114to the floor to provide additional support. WhileFIG. 1Billustrates legs118positioned at the corners of the bed frame114, the preset invention is no so limited. For example, in alternative implementations the recessed, extendable bed110can include legs any position along the bed frame114.

When recessed, extendable bed110is folded down out of wall module104a, and the recessed cavity or pocket112is exposed. The recessed pocket112can include one or more tiles122on the back surface or can include one or more sides of the recessed pocket112. The tile(s)122can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. These tiles122can couple to the interior frame of the corresponding wall module104aand can allow for replacement or repositioning, similar to external tiles106. For example, tile122can attach to the interior frame of wall module104ato form a back wall of the recessed pocket112. As desired, a user can exchange tile122in recessed pocket112for another tile to change the aesthetic of the recessed pocket112. The interchangeability of the tiles122can enable the customization of the recessed pocket112.

In addition to tiles122, the recessed pocket112can also optionally include one or more fixtures. For example, the recess pocket112can include lights124. In alternative implementations, fixtures within the recessed pocket112can include televisions, touch screen devices such as a smart phone, computer, or music device, shelves, artwork, etc. Additionally, to enable the use of electronic fixtures within the recessed pocket112, the recessed pocket112can provide electronic connectors at each opening where fixtures are to be installed. For example, an opening can include an electrical outlet for receiving a portion of a light fixture's connector to provide power to the light fixture. Similarly, an opening may also provide one or more data connectors (e.g. HDMI, Coax, USB, Ethernet, etc.) that conform to one or more corresponding data connectors of a television module, a touch screen computer module, or similar module that requires data communication.

In one or more implementations of the present invention, fixtures (such as a light fixture) can protrude from the tiles122within the recessed pocket112. For example, a light fixture124can be repositionable between a flush and a protruded position. In one implementation, a light fixture124can provide for manual repositioning (e.g. by pushing in on the light fixture to release the light fixture into the protruded position).

In another implementation, the position of a light fixture (or another device) is controlled by the position of the corresponding bed. For example, a light fixture124within the upper portion of the recessed pocket112can move to a protruded position when the recessed, extendable bed110is folded down out of wall module104a. Similarly, when recessed, extendable bed110is raised, the light fixture124can return to a flush configuration.

As mentioned previously, implementations of the present invention can provide modular walls with increased width to accommodate recessed, extendable furniture. For example,FIGS. 1C and 1Dillustrate end views of the wall modules104a. As shown, the wall module104acan include vertical frame brackets130. Furthermore, an interior wall can connect the pair vertical frame brackets130together. The interior wall can include one or more tiles122that define the recessed pocket112. In other words, each end of the wall module104acan include a vertical frame bracket130, and the wall panels or tiles122can extend therebetween.

Additionally, to extend the height of the wall module104a, splines132can attach additional vertical frame brackets130ato vertical frame brackets130. Then exterior tiles106can couple to vertical frame brackets130avia horizontal frame brackets. Additionally, the wall module104acan include one or more leveler assemblies126. The lever assemblies126can allow a user to level, raise, or lower the wall module104aby adjusting a bolt along a treaded rod.

The interior frame of the wall module104acan further include one or more horizontal frame brackets128. The horizontal frame brackets128can extend between the vertical frame brackets130. Furthermore, the horizontal frame brackets128can include one or more engagement protrusions (similar to engagement protrusions138described below in relation toFIG. 2). The engagement protrusions can allow a user to attach external tiles106to the interior frame. In particular, the external tiles106can include clips or connectors (similar to connectors140described below in relation toFIG. 2) that can couple to the engagement protrusions. In particular, the connectors can include one or more flexible arms that clip or snap about an arrow-shaped barb or head of the engagement protrusions to secure the external tiles106to the interior frame (i.e., horizontal frame brackets128).

When the wall module104adivides a space, a user can position a second set of vertical frame brackets130b, horizontal frame brackets, and exterior tiles106to conceal the backside of the wall modules104a. In alternative implementations, secondary vertical frame brackets130can attach to the back side of the wall panels or tiles122forming the recessed pocket112. Such secondary vertical frame brackets130can then support horizontal frame brackets and exterior tiles106. In still further implementations, the back side of the wall module104acan abut against an existing wall.

Referring now toFIG. 2, the vertical frame bracket130and how they attach to adjacent frames of other wall modules is described in greater detail. For example, as illustrated inFIG. 2, the vertical frame bracket130can include a generally planar wall body133. The wall body133can act as the main support for the wall module104a. In particular, as explained below, the wall body133can attach to and support the recessed, extendable bed110, the wall panels122forming the recessed pocket112, and adjacent wall modules102a,102b.

As shown byFIG. 2, the vertical frame bracket130can incorporate one or more engagement protrusions134. In particular, as illustrated byFIG. 2, an L-shaped arm136can extend away from the wall body133of the vertical frame bracket130. Each arm136can hold an engagement protrusion134at the end thereof. The L-shaped arms136can point each of the engagement protrusions134away from each other.

In one or more implementations, the engagement protrusion134can comprise a barb or an arrow-shaped head. The engagement protrusions134can allow the vertical frame bracket130to couple to the vertical frame bracket130aof an adjacent wall module (e.g.,102a,102b). In particular, the vertical frame bracket130aof an adjacent wall module can include corresponding engagement protrusions138. A clip or connector140can couple the engagement protrusions134,138of the adjacent vertical frame brackets130,130atogether. In particular, the clip or connector140can include one or more flexible arms142that clip or snap about the head of engagement protrusions134,138to secure them together. In particular, the flexible arms142of the connectors140can surround at least a portion of the head of the engagement protrusions134,138. The ability to clip the vertical frame bracket130to the vertical frame bracket130aof an adjacent wall module130acan allow a user to selectively remove, move, or reconfigure the position of a wall module104awithin a given modular wall system.

As shown byFIG. 2, engagement protrusions or barbs134can include one or more undercutting edges144. Accordingly, the undercutting edges144of the engagement protrusions or barbs134can couple to corresponding portions of the connectors140. In particular, the flexible arms142of the connectors140can incorporate one or more undercutting lips146. Thus, the undercutting edges144of the engagement protrusions134can mate with one or more undercutting lips146of the flexible arms142. For instance, the flexible arms142can flex outward to allow the undercutting lips146to move around the undercutting edges144so that the undercutting lips146can snap about the engagement protrusions134.

The vertical frame bracket130of the wall module with recessed, extendable furniture104acan further include an attachment plate150. The attachment plate150can comprise a surface extending generally parallel to, and away from the wall body133. In particular, an extension152can offset the attachment plate150from the wall body133. By being offset, the attachment plate150can accommodate a wall panel122aand hold it flush with the wall body133.

The wall panel122acan attach to the attachment plate150via one or more fasteners, such as screws, nails, adhesive(s), etc. The attachment plate150can accommodate the wall panel122athat forms the side of the recessed pocket112(FIG. 1B), and thus, allow for a wall module with increased width. A user can then attach a back tile122to the wall panel122a. The back tile122can similarly attached to another wall panel122aon the other side of the recessed pocket112.

As mentioned previously, the vertical frame bracket130of the wall module with recessed, extendable furniture104acan support the recessed, extendable bed110.FIG. 3illustrates an exploded view of a pivot connection153that can attach the recessed, extendable bed110to the vertical frame bracket130. The pivot connection153can both support the weight of the recessed, extendable bed110, and allow the recessed, extendable bed110to pivot relative to the vertical frame bracket130.

The pivot connection153can include a pivot hub156, a bolt or pivot rod158, and one or more additional components. For example,FIG. 3illustrates that the vertical frame bracket130can include a hole154. The hole154can hold a pivot hub156. The pivot hub156can also extend through the bed frame114. In turn, a bolt or pivot rod158can extend through the pivot hub156, through the hole154in the vertical frame bracket130, through a stiffener plate160, and attach to a hub plate162.

One will appreciate that the specific pivot connection shown inFIG. 3is only an exemplary pivot connection for attaching the bed frame114to the vertical frame bracket130. Alternative implementations can include alternative configurations. For example, in one or more implementations the bolt or pivot rod158can attach directly to the vertical frame bracket130. In such implementations, the pivot connection may not include a stiffener160and a hub plate162. In still further implementations, the hole154in the vertical frame bracket130may accommodate only the bolt or pivot rod158. In such implementations, a bushing or bearing can reside between the vertical frame bracket130and the pivot hub156. In any event, the vertical frame bracket130can support the recessed, extendable bed110.

In addition to the pivot connection153, lifting and lowering mechanisms120can also couple to and extend between the interior frame (i.e., vertical frame bracket130) of the wall module104aand the bed frame114. For example,FIGS. 4 and 5illustrate views of the bed frame114in an extended or deployed position (FIG. 4), and the recessed or storage position (FIG. 5). As mentioned earlier, the lifting and lowering mechanism120can comprise a pneumatic piston, a gas spring, a torsion spring or other mechanism that can limit how quickly the recessed, extendable bed110is lowered towards the extended position. Furthermore, the lifting and lowering mechanism120can aid in raising the recessed, extendable bed110from the extended position to the storage or recessed position.

As shown inFIGS. 4 and 5in one implementation, the lifting and lowering mechanisms120can each comprise a pneumatic piston. In particular, the lifting and lowering mechanism120can include a cylinder164and a rod166moveably coupled to the cylinder164. The cylinder164can attach to the vertical frame bracket130via a support bracket168and a pivot pin170. The pivot pin170can allow the cylinder164to rotate or pivot relative to the vertical frame bracket130.

Similarly, the rod166can attach to the bed frame114via a support mount172and a pivot pin174. The pivot pin174can allow the rod166to rotate or pivot relative to the bed frame114. In one or more implementations, the support mount172is located near a rear corner of the bed frame114. In alternative implementations, the support mount172is positioned along the side of the bed frame114.

As shown by comparingFIGS. 4 and 5, when in the storage position, the lifting and lowering mechanism120can extend approximately vertically, and the support mount172can reside directly (or substantially directly) below support bracket130. As the bed frame114rotates out to the extended position, the bed frame114can rotate about the pivot connection153such that the support mount172moves up and toward the back tile122. As the bed frame114rotates out to the extended position, the rod166can retract into the cylinder164.

In any event, the lifting and lowering mechanism120can help ensure that the recessed, extendable furniture is not lowered too fast. Additionally, the lifting and lowering mechanism120can assist in raising the recessed, extendable furniture to the storage position. One will appreciate thatFIGS. 3,4, and5illustrate one side of the interior of the wall module104awith recessed, extendable furniture. The other side can include the same components and functions. Thus, two separate pivot connections153on each side of the recessed pocket112can attach both sides of the bed frame114to the vertical frame bracket130. Similarly, two separate lifting and lowering mechanisms120on each side of the recessed pocket112can attach both sides of the bed frame114to the vertical frame bracket130.

FIG. 4further illustrates that the bed frame114can include a channel155therein. The channel155can allow a user to attach other components, such as straps, to the bed frame114. For example, a user can extend a strap between the channel155of the bed frame114and the interior frame of the wall module104ato support the recessed, extendable bed110in the extended position. The strap can replace the legs118or act as a secondary support.

The channel155can comprise include an opening that is smaller than the actual channel155. Thus, the walls forming the opening of the channel155can act to retain a clip, connector, or portion of a strap within the channel155. The channel155can extend around the entire inner surface of the bed frame114. In alternative implementations, the channel155can extend along only a portion of the bed frame114(such as the end of the bed frame114between the corners194). In any event, in one or more implementations the mattress116can cover or otherwise conceal the channel155from view.

As mentioned previously, the recessed, extendable bed110can further include one or more supports when lowered into the extended position. For example,FIGS. 6 and 7illustrate a leg118on one corner of the recessed, extendable bed110in a deployed position (FIG. 6) and a storage position (FIG. 7). When in the deployed position, the leg118can support the recessed, extendable bed110, and prevent the recessed, extendable bed110from moving below a generally horizontal position. Furthermore, the ability to move to a storage position can allow the leg118to reside with the recessed pocket112when the recessed, extendable bed110is in the storage position (FIG. 1A).

FIGS. 6 and 7illustrate that a pivot mechanism180can couple the leg118to the bed frame114. In particular, a pivot post182can extend from the bed frame114. A pivot pin184can couple the leg118to the pivot post182and allow the leg118to rotate between the deployed position (FIG. 6) and the storage position (FIG. 7).

In one or more implementations, the pivot mechanism180can further include a locking mechanism for securing the leg118in the deployed position (FIG. 6). For example,FIG. 7illustrates that a locking bracket186can extend from the leg118. The locking bracket186can include a tapered leading end188and a locking hole190. The locking bracket186can interface with a locking pin192moveably positioned in a corner194of the bed frame114.

In particular, the locking pin192can move between a locked position in which the locking pin192is fully inserted into the corner194, and a release position in which the locking pin192is pulled partially out of the corner194. A spring or other mechanism can bias the locking pin192toward the locked position. As the leg118is rotated toward the deployed position (FIG. 6), the tapered end188can enter into the corner194and push the locking pin192outward until the locking hole190aligns with the locking pin192. When the locking hole190aligns with the locking pin192, the locking pin192can automatically enter into the locking hole190, thereby locking the leg118in the deployed position (FIG. 6).

To unlock the leg118, a user can pull the locking pin192at least partially outward of the corner192so as to clear the locking hole190. The user can then freely pivot the leg118about the pivot pin184into the storage position (FIG. 7). As shown byFIG. 7, when in the storage position, the leg118can extend from the corner194along the front of the bed frame114toward the opposite corner of the bed frame114.

FIGS. 1-7and the corresponding text describe and/or depict a wall module104aincluding a recessed, extendable bed110. One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that the present invention is not so limited. In particular, the features and components described above can also provide for multiple pieces of recessed, extendable furniture in a single wall module.

For example,FIGS. 8A and 8Billustrate a modular wall100ahaving a wall module104bwith multiple beds incorporated therein. In particular,FIGS. 8A and 8Billustrate a modular wall100aincluding a plurality of wall modules102a,102b,104b. Each of wall modules102a,102b,104bremovably connects to any of the other wall modules102a,102b,104b. Accordingly, a designer can reconfigure modular wall100aby interchanging or replacing any wall module102a,102b,104b.

Each wall module102a,102b,104bcomprises an interior frame and one or more exterior tiles106connected to one or both sides of the wall module. Each wall module102a,102b,104bincludes exterior tiles106on each side of the wall module102a,102b,104a. In any event, as shown byFIG. 8AandFIG. 8B, wall module104bcan include one or more recessed, extendable pieces of furniture, in this case recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110b. As shown byFIG. 8A, when in the closed or storage position, the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bcan seamlessly fit within the modular wall100a. In particular, the external tile(s)106aattached to the underside of the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bcan help ensure that the wall module with recessed, extendable furniture104bappears similar to the wall modules102a,102bwithout recessed, extendable furniture.

Referring now specifically toFIG. 8B, the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bare shown in the deployed or extended position. As shown, the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bcan extend out from a pocket112within the wall module104b. The pocket112thus can allow the exterior tiles106aon the underside of the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bto align flush with the exterior tiles106of adjacent wall modules102a,102b, as shown byFIG. 8A. Pocket112can form a continuous cavity (i.e., each of bunk beds110aand110bare contained within a single cavity) or may comprise separate cavities for each bunk bed110a,110b.

Each of the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bcan include a retaining mechanism to help hold the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bin the recessed or storage position. For example,FIG. 8Billustrates that a magnet206can extend from the vertical frame bracket130. When in the recessed or storage position (FIG. 8A) the magnets206can attract to the corners194,194aof the bed frames114a, thereby holding the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bin the storage position. In alternative implementations, the retaining mechanism can comprise a mechanical mechanism such as a button or snap-fit fastener.

The recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bcan each include a bed frame114a, a mattress116, a pivot connection153(not shown inFIGS. 8A and 8B), and one more lifting and lowering mechanisms120similar to those described above in relation toFIGS. 1-7. Thus, each of the bed frames114acan couple directly to the interior frame (i.e., vertical frame bracket130) of wall module104b. Similarly, lifting and lowering mechanisms120can also couple to and extend between the interior frame of the wall module104band the bed frame114a.

Furthermore, the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bcan include one or more supports. For example,FIGS. 8A and 8Billustrate that the recessed, extendable bunk bed110acan include a shelf196. The shelf196can have a size and configuration so that when recessed, extendable bunk bed110ais in the extended position (FIG. 8B), the shelf196extends vertically and rests on the floor to support the recessed, extendable bunk bed110a. When the recessed, extendable bunk bed110ais in the recessed or storage position (FIG. 8A), the shelf196can extend horizontally. Furthermore, the shelf196can aid a user in pulling the recessed, extendable bunk bed110afrom the recessed or storage position to the extended position.

Along similar lines, recessed, extendable bunk bed110bcan include similar supports to the legs118(described above in relation toFIGS. 6 and 7) that pivot down from corners194ato corners194of recessed, extendable bunk bed110a. In other words, the additional supports for recessed, extendable bunk bed110can extend to recessed, extendable bunk bed110a. These additional supports may interconnect with the supports or legs of recessed, extendable bunk bed110a, or may connect in some other way to recessed, extendable bunk bed110a.

When recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bare folded down out of wall module104b, the recessed cavity or pocket112is exposed. The recessed pocket112can include one or more tiles122on the back surface or one or more sides of the recessed pocket112. The tiles122can serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. These tiles122can couple to the interior frame of the corresponding wall module104band can allow for replacement or repositioning, similar to external tiles106. As desired, a user can exchange each tile122in recessed pocket112for another tile to change the aesthetic of the recessed pocket112. The interchangeability of the tiles122can thus enable the customization of the recessed pocket112.

FIG. 8Balso shows that recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bcan each include a head board200. Similarly, although not shown, recessed, extendable bunk bed110can include a head board. Head boards200can attached directly to the bed frames114so that the head boards200can swing out as the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bare deployed. Alternatively, head boards200can attach to the interior frame (e.g., vertical frame bracket130) so that the head boards can swing out into the open position (as shown) independent of the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110b. In such implementations, head boards200can be swing back into pocket112against tiles122to allow recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bto fold back into cavity or pocket112. One will appreciate that a user can place a soft cushion or other padding over the frames of the head boards200.

In addition to legs118, the recessed, extendable bunk beds110a,110bcan further include a ladder210as shown byFIG. 8B. The ladder210can provide support to the upper recessed, extendable bunk bed110b, while at the same time allowing a user to climb onto the upper recessed, extendable bunk bed110b. In particular, once the relevant bunk bed110bis lowered into a generally horizontal configuration, the ladder210can support the recessed, extendable bunk bed110bfrom the floor.

One will appreciate that ladder210can move between a deployed position (FIG. 8A) and a storage position (FIG. 9). When in the deployed position the ladder210can support the recessed, extendable bed bunk110b, and prevent it from moving below a generally horizontal position. Furthermore, the ability to move to a storage position can allow the ladder210to reside with the recessed pocket112when the recessed, extendable bunk bed110bis in the storage position (FIG. 8A).

FIG. 8Billustrates that the ladder210extends from the upper recessed, extendable bed bunk110bto the floor. One will appreciate that the present invention is not so limited. In alternative implementations, the ladder210can extend to and be supported by the bed frame114aof the lower recessed, extendable bunk bed110a. For example, the feet of the ladder210can couple to the bed frame114aof the lower recessed, extendable bunk bed110aor a rail or other catch attached to the bed frame114a. Thus, the load of the upper recessed, extendable bed bunk110bcan transfer from the ladder210, to the bed frame114aof the lower recessed, extendable bunk bed110a, and through a support mechanism (e.g., pivoting legs118or shelf196) to the floor.

FIGS. 8B and 9illustrate that a pivot mechanism212can couple ladder210to the bed frame114a. In particular, pivot posts182acan extend from the bed frame114a. Pivot pins184acan couple the ladder210to the pivot posts182aand allow the ladder210to rotate between the deployed position (FIG. 8B) and the storage position (FIG. 9).

The ladder210can also include pivot joints214that allow the ladder to fold in half. In particular, as shown byFIG. 9, the pivot joints214can each include a first member216coupled to a second member218by a pivot pin220. Pivot pins220can couple the upper and lower portions of the ladder210together and allow the ladder210to fold in half.

In one or more implementations, the pivot joints214can further include a locking mechanism for securing the ladder210in the deployed position (FIG. 8B). For example,FIG. 9illustrates that the second member218can include a tapered leading end222and a locking hole224. The second member218can interface with a locking pin226moveably positioned in a first member216of the pivot joint214.

In particular, the locking pin226can move between a locked position in which the locking pin226is fully inserted into the first member216, and a release position in which the locking pin226is pulled partially out of the first member216. A spring or other mechanism can bias the locking pin226toward the locked position. As the ladder210is rotated toward the deployed position (FIG. 8B), the tapered end222can enter into the first member216and push the locking pin226outward until the locking hole224aligns with the locking pin226. When the locking hole224aligns with the locking pin226, the locking pin226can automatically enter into the locking hole224, thereby locking the ladder210in the deployed position (FIG. 8B).

To unlock the ladder210, a user can pull the locking pin226at least partially outward of the first member216so as to clear the locking hole224. The user can then freely pivot one end of the ladder210about the pivot pins220into the storage position (FIG. 9). As shown byFIG. 9, when in the storage position, the ladder210can rest on the recessed, extendable bed bunk110bin a folded-in-half configuration to reduce the length thereof.

FIGS. 1-9and the corresponding text, therefore, describe and/or depict wall modules104a,104bincluding a recessed, extendable beds110,110a,110b. One will appreciate in light of the disclosure herein that the present invention is not so limited. In particular, the features and components described above can also provide for other types of recessed, extendable furniture in a wall module. For example, wall modules can include recessed, extendable chairs, desks, tables, shelves, work surfaces, drawers, or other furniture.

For example,FIGS. 10A and 10Billustrate a modular wall100bhaving a wall module104cwith a recessed, extendable desk incorporated therein. In particular,FIGS. 10A and 10Billustrate a modular wall100aconsisting of a plurality of wall modules102a,102b,104c. Each of wall modules102a,102b,104cremovably connect to any of the other wall modules102a,102b,104c. Accordingly, a designer can reconfigure modular wall100bby interchanging or replacing any wall module102a,102b,104c.

Each wall module102a,102b,104ccomprises an interior frame and one or more exterior tiles106connected to one or both sides of the wall module. As shown byFIG. 10A, when in the closed or storage position, the recessed, extendable desk110ccan seamlessly fit within the modular wall100b. In particular, the external tile(s)106aattached to the underside of the recessed, extendable desk110ccan help ensure that the wall module with recessed, extendable furniture104cappears similar to the wall modules102a,102bwithout recessed, extendable furniture.

Referring now specifically toFIG. 8B, the recessed, extendable desk110cis in the deployed or extended position. As shown, the recessed, extendable desk110ccan extend out from a pocket112within the wall module104c. In this case the pocket112includes shelves222and a monitor stored therein. The pocket112can allow the exterior tiles106aon the underside of the recessed, extendable desk110cto align flush with the exterior tiles106of adjacent wall modules102a,102bas shown byFIG. 10A.

Once will appreciate that a pocket112of increased depth can allow for shelves222within the pocket112. Thus, while not shown in the recessed, extendable bed implementations, the pockets112in the recessed, extendable beds110,110a,110bcan include shelves222if the depth thereof is increased.

The recessed, extendable desk110ccan each include a pivot connection153and one more lifting and lowering mechanisms120similar to those described above in relation toFIGS. 1-7. Thus, the recessed, extendable desk110ccan couple directly to the interior frame (i.e., vertical frame bracket130) of wall module104c. Similarly, lifting and lowering mechanisms120can also couple to and extend between the interior frame of the wall module104cand the recessed, extendable desk110c.

As shown byFIG. 10B, recessed, extendable desk110ccan lower from wall module104cuntil positioned in a generally horizontal configuration. A stop bracket218can prevent recessed, extendable desk110cfrom swinging down beyond this generally horizontal position. The stop bracket218can comprise a surface that extends outwardly from the back of the pocket112, and against which an interior surface of the recessed, extendable desk110ccan abut to limit the rotation of the recessed, extendable desk110c.

FIGS. 10A and 10Bfurther illustrate that the recessed, extendable desk110ccan include a rod or handle220. Handle220can allow a user to quickly and easily pull the recessed, extendable desk110cfrom the recessed position to the deployed position. Similarly, although not shown, the recessed, extendable beds110,110a,110bcan optionally include a handle220.

AlthoughFIGS. 1-10Billustrate modular walls having wall modules that are each of the same depth, a modular wall according to one or more implementations of the present invention can comprise wall modules of different depths. For example, the modular wall can include one or more wall modules that are deeper than one or more other wall modules. At least one of the deeper wall modules can include recessed, extendable furniture. In such implementations, the recessed, extendable furniture can be provided on either side of the deeper wall modules. For example, referring toFIG. 1A, a wall bed can be provided on either the front or rear side of wall module104a.

Because each wall module of a modular wall system according to the present invention provide for independent movement and connection to another wall module, a user can reposition or combine wall modules102a,102b,104a,104b,104cas desired. For example, a user can combine wall modules102a,102b,104a,104b,104cinto a single modular wall or interchange wall modules102a,102b,104a,104b,104cas desired. Further, if it were desired to remove wall modules104a,104b,104cfrom the modular wall, a wall module102a,102bwithout recessed, extendable furniture could be exchanged with wall modules104a,104b,104c.

In any event, one will appreciate that implementations of the present invention can provide a wide variety of modular wall system that provide a wide variety of benefits. For example, implementations of the present invention can provide a wall module having recessed, extendable furniture that is incorporated into the wall. This is in contrast to free standing murphy beds, and other modular furniture that sits in front of a wall. Furthermore, implementations of the present invention can provide a wall module having recessed, extendable furniture that is easily reconfigurable. This is in contrast to built-in murphy beds and other built-in furniture that is permanently fixed in a wall.