CREATING RECONFIGURABLE FURNITURE WITH MINIMAL PARTS

Furnishings are created by combining a single panel design and a single fastener design in various ways. The connector has a cap plate mounted on opposite sides of one or two panels, with a threaded connector passing through the panel(s). A handle having a cam surface is attached to one of the threaded fasteners, such that after threading together the threaded connectors, the handle can be rotated to engage the cam against a cap plate to complete tightening of the connector. The connectors can have alignment posts which pass through preformed holes in the panels.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The disclosure relates to modular furniture, and more particularly to creating a wide variety of furnishings from a minimal number of differing parts.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Modular furniture systems typically include various brackets and pre-fitted parts which can be combined in particular ways to produce a finished assembly, sometimes without using tools. In some implementations, a threaded socket is affixed to one part, and a threaded shaft is affixed to another, by which the components are joined. In other implementations, a bracket having gaps or channels is affixed to one part, and the part to be assembled includes mating projections which fit into the gaps, for example in the manner of a dovetail connection. In other embodiments, washers, springs, or other components form part of the mutual connection.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

In an embodiment of the disclosure, a system for creating various furnishings without a requirement for the use of tools comprises a connector including (a) a cap plate defining a cap outer face and an opposed cap inner face, (b) a first threaded extension affixed to and extending from the inner face of the cap plate, the first threaded extension terminating at an end distal from the inner face, (c) a base plate defining a base outer face and an opposed base inner face, (d) a second threaded extension extending through the base plate, the second threaded extension extending away from the base plate on a side of the base plate defining the base inner face, and (e) a handle pivotably attached at a pivot axis to the second threaded extension, the handle defining at least one cam lobe, the handle pivotable about the pivot to a first position in which at least a portion of the at least one cam lobe bears against the base plate to urge the base plate in a direction away from the pivot axis, the handle pivotable to a second position in which the at least one cam does not urge the base plate in a direction away from the pivot axis; whereby two or more panels are connectable together using one or more of the connector, wherein (i) each of the one or more connector is attachable to at least one of the two or more panels by positioning one or more of the two or more panels between the inner face of the cap plate and the inner face of the base plate, and (ii) the second threaded extension is threadably engageable with the first threaded extension to thereby clamp the connector to at least one of the two or more panels when the handle is pivoted.

In variations thereof, the system further includes at least one post affixed to and extending from one of the cap inner face or the base plate; one of the cap plate and base plate defining one or more post apertures alignable with one of the at least one posts, whereby when at least one post is passed through a post hole, the base plate is urged into a fixed radial relationship with the cap plate; the handle is substantially wider than the first threaded fastener, whereby additional leverage is gained in order to tighten the first threaded fastener using a hand without the use of tools; and/or the system further includes a resilient cap plate gasket positionable against the inner face of the cap plate, and a resilient base plate gasket positionable against the inner face of the base plate.

In another variation thereof, the system further includes an extension including an internally threaded extension channel sized to threadably receive an externally threaded one of the first and second threaded extension, and a threaded extension shaft on a side of the extension opposite to the extension channel, the extension shaft sized to be threadably received in an internally threaded one of the first and second threaded extension, the extension sized to enable the cap plate and the base plate to be threaded together at a relatively greater distance from each other than when the extension is not connected.

In further variations thereof, the panels each define a substantially planar support surface having opposed ends, each of the opposed ends forming a side extension extending away from the planar support surface; the system further includes a cushion positionable upon the planar support surface and between the side extensions; two panels are mutually connected using at least two connectors, the panels oriented with respect to each other wherein the side extensions of each of the panels extend in a direction towards the other of the two panels, each side extension of one panel aligned with a side extension of the other of the two panels, the planar support surfaces of the two panels thereby maintained at a distance from each other by the side extensions and the connectors, forming a hollow central interior; the connectors are attached to the side extensions; and/or at least one of the first and second threaded extension defining an internally threaded channel, and the other of the first and second threaded extensions defining an externally threaded shaft mateable with the internally threaded channel.

In yet further variations thereof, the at least two of the two or more panels are mutually connected by a single connector; at least two of the two or more panels are mutually connected by two connectors; the handle includes a grip portion forming a wave shape, the wave shape providing an area which can be grasped by a user of the connector when at least a portion of the handle lies flat against the base plate; the connector includes at least one post extending from one of the cap plate or base plate, the surface of the panel further defining at least one preformed hole sized to admit passage of the at least one post; and/or the system further includes a drawer, the drawer positionable within the hollow central interior.

In additional variations thereof, the one of the first and second threaded extensions having an externally threaded shaft further includes a portion positioned upon a first side of the base plate, the threaded shaft extending through an aperture in the base plate to extend away from a second side of the base plate opposite to the first side of the base plate, the head portion sized larger than the aperture in the base plate; and/or the first and second threaded extensions are magnetically attracted to each other.

In another embodiment of the disclosure, a system for creating various furnishings without a requirement for the use of tools comprises a connector including (a) a cap plate defining a cap outer face and an opposed cap inner face, (b) a first threaded extension affixed to and extending from the inner face of the cap plate, (c) a base plate defining a base outer face and an opposed base inner face, the base plate having a base aperture extending therethrough, (d) a second threaded extension extending through the base plate, the second threaded extension extending away from the base plate on a side of the base plate defining the base inner face, and (e) at least one post affixed to and extending away from one of the cap plate and base plate, the post disposed radially at a distance from the respective first or second threaded extension, (f) a handle pivotably attached to the second threaded extension at a pivot, the handle and pivot disposed on a side of the base plate corresponding to the base outer face, the handle defining at least one cam lobe, the handle pivotable about the pivot to a first position in which at least a portion of the at least one cam lobe bears against the base plate to urge the base plate in a direction away from the pivot, the handle pivotable to a second position in which the at least one cam lobe does not urge the base plate in a direction away from the pivot; whereby two or more panels are connectable together using one or more of the connector, wherein (i) each of the one or more connector is assemblable onto at least one of the two or more panels by positioning one or more of the two or more panels between the inner face of the cap plate and the inner face of the base plate with passage of two of the at least two posts of the inner cap face each passing through at least one of the two or more panels, and (ii) the first and second threaded extensions are threadable together to thereby clamp the connector to at least one of the two or more panels.

In a further embodiment of the disclosure, a connector for joining two or more components comprises a cap plate defining a cap outer face and an opposed cap inner face; a first threaded extension affixed to and extending from the inner face of the cap plate, the first threaded extension terminating at an end distal from the inner face; a base plate defining a base outer face and an opposed base inner face; a second threaded extension extending through the base plate, the second threaded extension extending away from the base plate on a side of the base plate defining the base inner face; and a handle pivotably attached at a pivot axis to the second threaded extension, the handle defining at least one cam lobe which includes a wave shape providing an area which can be grasped by a user of the connector when at least a portion of the handle lies against the base plate, the handle pivotable about the pivot to a first position in which at least a portion of the at least one cam lobe bears against the base plate to urge the base plate in a direction away from the pivot axis, the handle pivotable to a second position in which the at least one cam does not urge the base plate in a direction away from the pivot axis.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

This written description uses examples to disclose the embodiments, including the best mode, and also to enable those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention. The patentable scope is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

The description in the present application should not be read as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an essential or critical element that must be included in the claim scope. The scope of patented subject matter is defined only by the claims. Moreover, none of the claims invokes 35 U.S.C. § 112 (f) or analogous provisions in other jurisdictions with respect to any of the appended claims or claim elements unless the exact words “means for” or “step for” are explicitly used in the particular claim, followed by a participle phrase identifying a function.

After reading the specification, skilled artisans will appreciate that certain features are, for clarity, described herein in the context of separate embodiments, can also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, can also be provided separately or in any subcombination. Further, references to values stated in ranges include each and every value within that range.

As used herein, the term “about” or “approximately” applies to all numeric values, whether or not explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significant figure. As used herein, the terms “substantial” and “substantially” means, when comparing various parts to one another, that the parts being compared are equal to or are so close enough in dimension that one skill in the art would consider the same. Substantial and substantially, as used herein, are not limited to a single dimension and specifically include a range of values for those parts being compared. The range of values, both above and below (e.g., “+/−” or greater/lesser or larger/smaller), includes a variance that one skilled in the art would know to be a reasonable tolerance for the parts mentioned.

Headings are provided for the convenience of the reader, and are not intended to be limiting in any way.

With reference to the figures, and particularly toFIGS.1-2, a furnishing assembly100in accordance with the disclosure, in this example a chair102, includes a supportive panel110having a planar portion112and side extensions114. In the embodiment ofFIGS.1-2, panel110functions as a seat base150and a seat back152, to form chair102. Panels110include preformed apertures116which are positioned and aligned to enable the formation of a wide variety of furnishings, as detailed further herein.

Panels110are fabricated using a material that is sufficiently strong and durable for the intended purpose, and particularly for use as a component of furniture, and can include for example wood, fiberglass, carbon fiber, metal including for example steel or aluminum, a composite material, resin, or a polymeric material, as non-limiting examples.

Connectors200, shown in detail for example inFIGS.5-6and8, are used to combine panels110together to form a unitary furniture structure. Connectors200can be provided with leg extensions220, as can be seen in detail for example inFIGS.1and12-13.

InFIGS.1and2, a panel connector120is used to join seat back152and seat base150, enabling seat back152and seat base150to be structurally identical and interchangeable. Alternatively, as can be seen with reference toFIGS.3and8, seat back152A of chair102A is formed with an integral panel portion154, which results in the same parts count to form either the chair style ofFIG.1, or the chair style ofFIG.3. Preformed apertures116are provided within panel connector120to enable joining seat back152A to seat base150in a manner otherwise identical to that ofFIG.1.

With reference toFIGS.4-7and9, connector200includes a cap plate212which, when the connector is assembled, is positioned opposite to a base plate222. Cap plate212is affixed to a connector cap mating portion214, in this embodiment a screw, which extends towards base plate222when assembled. In this embodiment, cap mating portion is an internally threaded channel. One or more posts216are affixed to cap plate212and extend in a direction of base plate222. A gasket218is positioned against a side of plate212from which posts216extend. Gaskets218,228can include apertures246through which posts216or other fasteners or projections can extend.

Base plate222is positioned opposed to cap plate212, and has a base aperture230through which base mating portion224is passed, threadable into cap mating portion214when connector200is installed. Base mating portion224includes a head232(FIG.7) sized larger than aperture230. A pin234passes into head232and also into a latch handle236, whereby at least one end of pin234is freely rotatable radially whereby handle236can be pivoted about pin234. Handle236forms at least one cam lobe238which extends towards base plate222when handle236is in a latched position, as shown inFIG.7, with a grip portion240lying against base plate222. In the latched position, cam lobe238urges base plate222in a direction of cap plate212relative to head232. An unlatched position is defined when grip portion240is moved away from plate222to position a shallow cam lobe portion242facing towards plate222. Cam lobes238,242can be oriented along an end of grip portion at other locations to define a latched position of grip portion242to be other than against base plate222. As depicted, two lobes238enable grip portion242to be latched lying upon either face of grip portion242.

In this embodiment, grip portion240of latch handle236is shaped as a broad flat surface which is easily grasped by a hand, and has sufficient width along a longitudinal dimension extending radially away from base mating portion224, such that it can be rotated by hand with sufficient torque to ensure a tight connection between base plate222and cap plate212. In this manner, furniture according to the disclosure can be assembled without the use of tools. Gaskets218,228can be formed of a resilient material which is compressed when connector200is tightened, such that an axial force is continuously exerted upon base mating portion224and connector200at all times, whereby vibration and movement has a lower likelihood of causing loosening of base mating portion224.

In an embodiment, cap mating portion214and aperture230are centrally disposed within plates212and222, respectively, although they may be mutually offset to align when connector200is installed. Optionally, one or more of post216is threadably fastened to base plate222using a post screw244, as depicted inFIG.5A. Each of screw244can include a cam handle242as shown and described herein, however such screw244can include a smaller handle242. A gasket228is positioned on a side of plate222from which base mating portion224extends.

As can be seen inFIGS.1-3and5-6two elements can be mutually affixed by a single connector200, such as two panels110, panel110and a connector120/120A, panel110and seat back152A, or other combination of elements as shown and described herein. Alternatively, as shown with respect to the front legs220inFIGS.1-3and with respect toFIGS.4and7, connector200can be affixed to a single panel110. As can be seen inFIG.1, a spacer248can be inserted above leg220so that one leg220length can serve as both front and back legs.

In an embodiment, base mating portion224is retained in connection with base222while being axially rotatable. For example, base222is prevented from removal from base mating portion224on one side by head232and from an opposite side of base222by sizing aperture230to have a smaller diameter than threads of base mating portion224, but a larger diameter than a narrowed portion (not shown) of base mating portion224between head232and the threads of base mating portion224. In an embodiment, base222can be threaded onto base mating portion224until the narrowed portion is reached. Alternatively, base222can be stamped, pinched, or otherwise formed after base mating portion224is inserted, to form a diameter smaller than the threads and head232.

With further reference toFIGS.5-6and8, in order for a single configuration of connector200to be useable for both single and double panel connections, and particularly where it would be difficult to exchange base mating portion224with a shaft of differing length, an extension250can be provided, which includes an internally threaded channel252sized to receive base mating portion224on a first end, and a threaded shaft254positioned on a second end opposite to the first end, sized to threadably engage cap mating portion214of cap plate212. Extension250has a length sufficient to enable a connection between base mating portion224and cap mating portion214when two elements are clamped by connector200and extension250is threaded to both base mating portion224and cap mating portion214. In an embodiment, extender250includes an engaging exterior surface122, which can include one or more flat surfaces which are engaged by a tool or corresponding flat surfaces within panel110, or other surface, to prevent unwanted rotation of extension250during tightening.

In an embodiment, cap mating portion214/extension250and base mating portion224are magnetically active to be magnetically attracted to each other, whereby alignment between cap mating portion214/extension250and base mating portion224is facilitated. This can be helpful where cap plate212and base plate222block visibility of the alignment of cap mating portion214/extension250and base mating portion224during assembly.

In one variation, the material forming cap mating portion214/extension250is magnetized, or a magnet is inserted into cap mating portion214/extension250or is attached exterior to cap mating portion214/extension250. In this variation, base mating portion224can be magnetized as a polar opposite to the magnetic field associated with cap mating portion214/extension250, whereby base mating portion224is directed towards cap mating portion214/extension250during assembly.

It should be understood that any combination of materials resulting in an attraction between cap mating portion214/extension250and base mating portion224can be used. For example, where one of cap mating portion214/extension250and base mating portion224is a magnet, the other is either magnetized to be a polar opposite, or is formed with or provided with a ferromagnetic, paramagnetic, or ferrimagnetic material. Similarly, if extension250is pre-attached to base mating portion224instead of cap mating portion214, it is configured to be magnetically attracted to cap mating portion214.

In a still further embodiment, a cone (not shown) is positioned at the end of cap mating portion214or extension250, whereby base mating portion224is guided into alignment with an opening into cap mating portion214or extension250.

Referring now toFIGS.10-12, it may be seen that connectors200and panels110can be combined to form other furniture structures. In the example shown, an ottoman/end table/desk/coffee table, herein ottoman104is formed. Two panels110are positioned upside down relative to each other to form an enclosed space106. Is in other embodiments herein, preformed apertures116are positioned to admit posts216, cap mating portion214, base mating portion224, and if included, extension250of connector200, through panels110to enable fastening thereof. To combine two panels110in the manner shown in the instant embodiment, two preformed apertures116A,B are used, which can be present in all manufactured instances of panel110.

In the embodiment shown, a gap108(FIG.11) is present between mutually facing side extensions114, through which cap mating portion214and base mating portion224may pass, whereby no further openings, such as the larger central preformed apertures116C (FIG.10), need be formed upon side extensions114. Alternatively, if it is desired to avoid gap108, a semicircle (not shown) can be formed along facing peripheral surfaces of side extensions114in the location that aperture116C would otherwise occupy. However, if a design goal is to have the smallest parts count, this would be present in all examples of panels110, which may be undesirable in certain furniture configurations.

InFIGS.12-14A, it may be seen that connectors200A which join the two panels110along side extensions114do not have leg extensions220attached to base plate222, while the connectors200B affixed to the lower panel110do have leg extensions220. As can further be seen inFIG.12, base plate222B of connector200B includes 4 apertures256, comprising two pairs of apertures, each pair potentially aligning with two posts216of the connector cap plate212. Posts216are provided with a length sufficient to pass through a single panel110and enter into apertures256, whereby legs220are affixed in any of four desired radial orientations. More orientations are possible with a greater number of apertures256. It may be seen in the figures that legs220are axially offset from base222along their length, whereby certain such orientations may cause leg220to extend outwards or inwards, and left or right with respect to a center of the furnishing, to best meet the visual, convenience, and strength goals for the furnishing. This axially offset orientation can be clearly seen, for example, inFIG.14.

With reference toFIG.15, where it is desired to enable posts216to extend through thicker or thinner panels, or more than two panels, post extensions266can be provided, which have a threaded screw portion at an end, which can be threaded into a threaded channel268provided in post216A. Alternatively, post216can be threaded as shown for post extension266, and a threaded channel (not shown) can be provided in cap plate212, whereby post216is replaceable and can be provided in two or more lengths.

In a still further alternative embodiment, base plate222can also be provided with posts216(not shown) which extend in a direction of cap plate212. In this embodiment, posts216of both base plate222and cap plate212can be provide with a length less than about half of the thickness of one panel110, whereby if either one or two panels110are clamped by connector200, each of cap plate212and base plate222are radially affixed with respect to an adjacent panel110. If the two panels are otherwise prevented from mutually rotating, for example by mutual connection with another connector200, then cap plate212and base plate222are also radially affixed relative to each other.

With further reference toFIG.13-14A, it may be seen that leg220is formed as a hairpin bend of a rigid rod, which is affixed to plate222B. As such, to implement a furniture leg, plate222B with affixed leg220is substituted for base plate222, resulting in only a single additional part in order to implement a furniture leg. It should be understood that other extensions or objects can be affixed to a base plate222in lieu of legs222, in order to support furniture in other ways, or to support furniture accessories, such as to implement lighting, or support of other objects, such as decorative objects or planters. Further, legs222can have any shape, or be provided with any material, which may be affixed to base plate222. In the embodiment shown, leg222is welded to base plate222, however the combination of leg220and base plate222can be produced as a unitary part, or legs can be attached to base plate222by other means, such as brazing, threaded fasteners, or other strong and durable fastening method. As shown, leg220includes a base plate222and is used as a replacement for base plate222; however, in an embodiment, leg220can be used together with the base plate222ofFIG.9, for example if it is desired to provide the finished surface of base plate222.

With reference toFIG.14A, a foot258is connectable to leg220, to protect flooring, distribute weight, prevent scratching, reduce slippage, and/or to provide a decorative appearance. Where leg220has the form of a bent rod, as depicted, foot258can be conveniently attached t a leg distal bent end264during assembly. More particularly, foot258can include opposed nubs260which are pressed outwardly when leg220is inserted into a groove262of foot258, and which resiliently resume an original position which has a smaller diameter than leg220, and thereby prevents foot258from becoming disengaged from leg220. Foot258can be configured to snap onto other leg220shapes in a similar manner, so that foot258can be assembled to the furnishing without the use of tools, as with all components of furniture of the disclosure. Alternatively, nubs260can be absent, and foot258can be frictionally engaged, or connected by a fastener or some other means, to leg220.

With reference toFIGS.16-19, a furnishing assembly100forms a couch and ottoman configuration270, which can be assembled using only the components described with respect toFIGS.1-14. More particularly, cushion components272can be inserted into the U-shape formed by planar portion112and the two side extensions114, preventing lateral movement. Cushion components272can be provided with a three dimensional surface profile which provides targeted support or comfort, and can include active components such as heaters, coolers, or massage components. Cushion components272can be further affixed, reversibly or not as desired, using hook and loop fasteners, adhesive, threaded fasteners, or other fastening means. Preformed apertures116which are not being used for a connector200can be used to insert a fastener, for example a threaded screw, through panel110and into a rigid portion (not shown) of cushion component272.

In an embodiment, configuration270is formed entirely from 3 chairs102ofFIG.1, and the ottoman104ofFIG.10, with the exceptions of not including the upper panel110and its associated connectors200of ottoman104, and including the provision of cushion components272. As should be evident, other furnishing100configurations can be formed using a greater or fewer number of chair102and ottoman104, including longer configurations, such as theatre style row and column seating, L-shaped configurations, back-to-back configurations as may be seen in a large waiting area, facing configurations, including facing configurations which can be slid together to form a bed, possibly with an intermediate row of ottomans104to add width, all as non-limiting examples.

With reference toFIGS.17and19, a joining leg274can be used to maintain a relative orientation of adjacent chairs. More particularly, a leg joining plate276is provided with two sets of apertures256, each set replacing a base plate222, whereby a first connector200passing through one set of apertures256is retained in a fixed orientation with respect to a second connector passing the other set of apertures256. In this manner, a furnishing100connected to the first connector is retained in a fixed orientation to a furnishing100connected to the second connector. In the embodiment ofFIGS.17and19, two joining plates276are joined by a single leg220A, which forms a single area of floor contact at a distal bent end264. Leg220A extends from the midpoint of each of the two joining plates276, and can therefore be oriented to reach the floor at a more central area that is away from a perimeter of the furnishing100. This is advantageous as leg220A can provide a more central support, particularly useful for distributing weight support for an elongate furnishing structure such as is shown inFIGS.16-17. Another advantage is that leg220A end264is positioned away from a peripheral area which might otherwise contribute to a leg220interfering with the placement of feet or legs of a user, and which additionally can facilitate vacuuming or other cleaning operation.

While a single leg220A is shown as joining two joining plates276, a joining plate276can be provide with no leg220A, and joining plates276are provided as individual units, each joining a pair of connectors. Alternatively, a single joining plate276can be provided with one or more of a leg220such as is shown inFIG.1. Such one or more leg can be oriented with the leg extending more centrally, as shown and described for leg220A.

An alternative joining leg280, shown inFIG.18, joins two base plates222by a single leg200B. If both base plates222of joining leg are each affixed to a connector200on the same furnishing100, a function of joining two furnishings100is not carried out. However, a supporting function, as well as the other benefits of a centrally disposed distal bent end264are realized. Alternatively, joining leg280can connect to connectors200on different furnishings100, and a joining function can also be realized. For example, the two connectors can be located in the same place on each of two adjacent furnishings100, or can be connected diagonally to front and back connectors, respectively. Still further, leg200B can be bent at a more acute angle, and two adjacent connectors of different furnishings100can be joined. InFIG.18, a foot258is not shown, although foot258can be provided.

With reference toFIG.20, a spanning plate282can be used to connect adjacent furnishings100. Spanning plate282can be provided with preformed apertures284which align with preformed apertures of base222or panel110. Plate282can be attached to furnishings100by being positioned between base plate222and cap plate212, for example between base plate222and a panel110. In such embodiments, the associated connector200can either be provided with a leg220/220A/220B, or have no provided leg. Spanning plate282can have a length sufficient to join adjacent furnishings100at more than two connectors. In the embodiment shown inFIG.20, there are preformed apertures for alignment with four connectors200.

As shown inFIG.20, spanning plate282includes an offset flange286extending along both longitudinally extending sides of plate282, although flange286can extend along only one longitudinally extending side, or one or both transverse ends of plate282. Flange286can thus form a guide rail for a drawer288, as shown inFIG.21. More particularly, a downwardly facing mating flange290is provided along side surfaces of drawer288, which can be hooked onto flange286of plate282, whereupon drawer288can be slid along flange286to be movable with respect to the remainder of furnishing100. Such a drawer288is shown at each end of table292ofFIGS.22-23. Alternatively, drawer288can be shaped to conform to an interior dimension of panels110and can be thereby guided by the enclosure formed by the opposed panels110.

With further reference toFIG.22-23, a table292is assembled in the manner similar to ottoman104ofFIG.10, with the distinction that two of such configurations are joined together to form left and right halves104A,104B, and each of the left and right halves104A/104B have two bottom connectors200which do not have legs220, where the left and right halves104A/104B are joined together to form a unitary furnishing. As can be seen inFIG.23, connector282spans from an underside of the left half to an underside of the right half, clamped by two legless connectors200at a front side of table292, and another connector282spans from an underside of the left half to an underside of the right half, clamped by another pair of the legless connectors200at a back side of table292.

With reference toFIG.24, it may be seen that a bed300is assembled using components ofFIGS.1-23. More particularly, support units302are assembled as mating panels110in the manner of ottoman104, however connectors without legs220are used. The support units302can optionally be mutually secured using connectors282as described with respect toFIG.23. A sufficient number of support units302may be used to fully support a mattress, or a lesser number of support units302can be used together with a supporting board304, as shown inFIG.24. A headrest306is formed using a plurality of seat back152A (FIG.3), which can be attached to board304using connectors200, or to support units302, using preformed apertures116.

Turning now toFIG.25, a bookshelf or shelves310are formed from a base of a plurality of ottoman104, upon which one or more of support units302(FIG.24) are stacked. Support units302are secured to the base ottomans104, and successive support units are mutually connected, using connectors200as described elsewhere herein. Adjacent base ottoman104structures, as well as adjacent stacked support units302, can be mutually connected by connectors300as described elsewhere herein, and as shown inFIG.25.

Connectors200, legs220, panels110, and all components of furnishings100as described herein can be provided with colors and finishes that correspond to a single theme which is visually appealing and complementary, as illustrated. Alternatively, such components can be provided with other themes, or selectable colors or finishes. For example, where cap plate212and/or base plate222is metallic, they can be provided with a finish that is satin or brushed, chromed or shiny, anodized, or painted. Likewise, panels110can be finished as a natural, stained, and varnished wood, or can be painted, or can be provided with a wood grain or other surface film coating or laminate. Similarly, if panels110are not made with wood, a natural finish of the material used can be displayed, such as carbon fiber or pigmented plastic.

With reference toFIGS.26-27, a connector200C is similar to connector200, however latch handle236A includes a wave-shape320, wherein a portion of the handle does not lie flat against a body of the connector, such as base plate222, or panel110, but instead extends in a direction away from panel110. In this manner, a finger or a tool can easily reach between latch handle236A and base plate222to thereby lift and rotate latch handle236A towards an upright/released/unlatched position in which cam lobes238do not bear upon base plate222and the connector is loosened. In the drawings one raised wave320is formed, although additional waves can be provided upon handle236A, or other raised shapes such a polygonal shape.

As can be seen inFIG.27, base threaded portion224A includes a threaded portion322and an endmost portion forming a threadless connector screw lead324. As such, base mating portion224A is readily inserted into connector cap mating portion214to be retained therein as threaded portion322is aligned and threaded into cap mating portion214, facilitating assembly of furnishing100. Further, thread pitch of threads322and other threaded portions herein can be selected to facilitate rapid assembly, for example having a steeper thread pitch than is standard, resulting in a greater axial movement for a given radial rotation of the fastener.

A further alternative connector200D is shown inFIGS.28-32, which is also similar to connector200, and which includes a wave-shaped latch handle236A as described with respect toFIGS.26-27, and which further includes other features. More particularly, connector cap plate212A is formed as a bar shape which joins connector posts216and cap mating portion214A, in this embodiment an affixed screw. An additional connector base plate222A can be provided adjacent to cap plate212A as shown, for any of aesthetic symmetry, additional strength, or to conceal additional apertures. As such, connector cap plate212A can be substituted with alternative plates212A having longer or shorter posts216A, or different mating structures for cap mating portion214. InFIG.29, an alternative connector cap plate212B is provided, which includes a smaller diameter mating portion214B, which can also be provided with a connector screw lead324as described elsewhere herein. Variants of Connectors200, including connectors200A-D and associated components can be mutually substituted herein. While connector200B is used only where leg extensions are needed, connector200B can nonetheless incorporate other features of the connectors as described herein.

In connector200D, base mating portion224B is releasably attachable to handle236/236A. More particularly, a slot330is formed extending through an exterior surface of head232A of base mating portion224B. Pin234of handle236A is placed into slot330, whereby handle236A becomes engaged with base mating portion224B and can thereby rotate base mating portion224B into threaded engagement with cap mating portion214A. Alternatively, base mating portion224B can be loosely hand threaded onto cap mating portion214A, and handle236A can be attached to form the final tightening of the mating connection, after which cam lobes238can be engaged by raising latch handle236A to the latched position, causing further tightening of the mating connection between cap and base mating portions214A and224B. A tool engagement surface (not shown) can be provided upon base mating portion end332to speed and facilitate initial threading of base mating portion224B onto cap mating portion214A, for example using a cordless screwdriver.

With particular reference toFIGS.28and31, gaskets218A,228A have an alternative shape including inwardly projecting protrusions226which are sized to extend inwards towards an axial center of the gasket, and form a diameter slightly smaller than an external diameter of base mating portion224B. Likewise, gasket apertures208form a diameter slightly smaller than an external diameter of posts216. In this manner, protrusions226and apertures208grip base mating portion224B and posts216to help retain parts in mating relationship during assembly of connector200D. Such undersized apertures can be formed in gaskets218/228, and can be used with all variants of connector200herein.

Slot330is formed to incline towards an outer end332of mating portion224B as it extends inwardly towards a center of mating portion224B, as depicted inFIG.28. As such, as handle236A is rotated to a latched position, a force exerted upon pin234by slot330tends to drive pin234towards the center of base mating portion224B and into a blind end of slot330, promoting a secure engagement between pin234and handle236A.

FIG.30is a cross section through the connector ofFIG.28, illustrating that a length of base mating portion224B can be selected to have a length corresponding to a thickness and/or number of layers of material to connect, whereby a length of cap mating portion214/214A can remain at a single length regardless of the thickness to be combined. InFIG.31, gasket protrusion226can be seen in interference fit with base mating portion224B.

With further reference toFIG.28, it may be seen that posts216A are provided with rings210which form a reduced diameter relative to a remainder of post216A. Rings210cooperate with the reduced diameter of gasket apertures208to retain posts216A in connection with gaskets218A,228A in loose connection during assembly. To further facilitate assembly, gaskets218A,228A can be adhered to its adjacent connector base plate222A. Likewise, other gasket variants218,228herein can be adhered to adjacent components to facilitate assembly, and may likewise be provided with apertures208of reduced diameter for a like purpose.

To further facilitate assembly, pin234has a diameter which is selected to provide a predetermined interference with a diameter of bore212(FIG.27) in connector screw head232. As such, a position of latch handle236/236A is maintained at a desired orientation when released, but can be further moved when desired. A similar interference fit can be provided for other mating connections, such as insertion of posts216into apertures256in base plate222/222A.

FIG.33depicts a table formed of a single supportive panel110mounted upon three or more leg extensions220. In the embodiment shown the panel side extensions114extend downward, forming a smooth unobstructed surface which facilitates support of oversized elements, such as a tray. However, panel110can be mounted with side extensions114extending upward, in order to better contain supported contents.

With reference toFIGS.34and2, it may be seen that in certain furnishing100configurations, there can be additional sets of panel apertures116/116A-B which are not used for assembling the furnishing. As such, these apertures116are available for attaching optional accessories, such as the non-limiting examples shown inFIGS.34-35, as examples. InFIG.34, a connector200or a variant thereof as described herein is used to attach a removable container342to an upper portion of a chair102. Objects can then be placed in container342for the convenience of a person seated upon chair102, or for the convenience of a person seated behind or adjacent to a chair102so equipped. Holder342can be sized to support or contain objects such as books or pamphlets, an umbrella, a purse, or other accessory or object. In the example shown, an inner container344is sized to be supported within container342, whereby inner container344can be formed without holes which may otherwise leak a liquid. As such, inner container344can contain a drink or a plant, or some other moist or wet object, or any material which may otherwise flow out from holes in container342.

In a similar fashion, other containers or supports can be attached to furnishing100using a connector200, whereby the other container or support is affixed in some manner, such as by a threaded fastener, to connector200, including for example a clothes hook, clasp, or other useful holder or fastener. In this manner furnishings100can be configured or equipped as needed for expected personal requirements of a particular event or venue.

InFIG.35, it may be seen that a protective canopy334, can be attached to furnishing100using one or more connectors200, where canopy334can be shaped to be useful for protecting a user of furnishing100from sun rain, sun, or dropped items, for example. In the embodiment shown, protective canopy334includes a substantially vertical portion336which extends from a panel110, which forms a seat back portion of chair102, to a point higher than the head of a seated person, and then forms a bend which extends to form a substantially horizontal portion338. It should be understood that other shapes and sizes can be provided for protective canopy334, for example a traditional umbrella shape including a vertically extending rod and a curved upper canopy (not shown), the rod attached to a connector200, wherein the canopy is collapsible. In an embodiment protective canopy334is foldable, for example at hinges344, or canopy334can be unmounted and remounted in a downwardly extending position. In an embodiment, canopy334is combined with one or more of holder342.

It should be understood that, herein, where an internally threaded part and an externally threaded part are mated, the internally threaded part can be substituted with an externally threaded part, while the externally threaded part can then be substituted with an internally threaded part, resulting in a similar mating connection. Such reversal can occur, for example, between cap mating portion214, extension250if present, and base threaded portion224, and the variations thereof as detailed herein. An example is shown in the embodiment ofFIG.28, in which an externally threaded part214A is attached to a variation of connector cap plate212, and an internally threaded part is driven by a variant of handle236.

It should be understood that the furnishings100depicted herein are merely representative, and a great many further configurations and embodiments of furnishings100can be produced using the components detailed herein. It should be further understood that although the connectors disclosed herein are described for use with modular furniture, the disclosure contemplates use of connectors200,200A-D for coupling components other than furniture.

All references cited herein are expressly incorporated by reference in their entirety. There are many different features of the present disclosure and it is contemplated that these features may be used together or separately. Unless mention was made above to the contrary, it should be noted that all of the accompanying drawings are not to scale. Thus, the disclosure should not be limited to any particular combination of features or to a particular application of the disclosure. Further, it should be understood that variations and modifications within scope of the disclosure might occur to those skilled in the art to which the disclosure pertains. Accordingly, all expedient modifications readily attainable by one versed in the art from the disclosure set forth herein that are within the scope of the present disclosure are to be included as further embodiments of the present disclosure.