Patent Publication Number: US-11653756-B2

Title: Modular panel assembly

Description:
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT 
     (Not Applicable) 
     BACKGROUND 
     Panel assemblies have been used for a number of years. Panel assemblies have been constructed through the use of magnetic frames, brackets and other fastening members. Panels may be joined together to form barriers, walls, enclosed spaces and furniture. 
     Such panel joining methods are often complicated, time-consuming, and burdensome for an end user to assemble or disassemble and require a variety of tools to connect or disconnect the panels, thereby creating an unwieldy and cumbersome environment. Such joining methods also create sequencing problems thereby delaying proper assemblage as well as alignment problems which result in the inadvertent disengagement, breakage of the panels, and opportunities for error. As a result, panel assemblies may be difficult to assemble and, if possible, disassemble. Additionally, such assembling difficulties may prevent reassembly of the panel assemblies once disassembled. Still further, such panel assemblies may not be able to be varied or adapted for different configurations and for different sized users. 
     SUMMARY 
     Accordingly, there has been an unmet need to provide a system and method for assembling, disassembling and reconfiguring modular panel assemblies in a swift, efficient, and tool-free manner. Discussed herein are various examples of modular interlocking panels which enable various and adaptable panel configurations to be cooperatively secured and fixed in place. The disclosed assembly and method provides improved modularity and configuration advantages. The panels of the modular assembly may be easily assembled, reassembled and reconfigured without the use of any tools or connecting devices, and without requiring any skilled labor to do so. Still further, the panels of the disclosed assembly may be easily reconfigured for transient use by end users of all ages. The panel assembly may be quickly, and single handedly, disassembled and reconfigured for use by a toddler, adolescent, or adult, individually or together, or stored for purposes of space optimization or future use. 
     Accordingly, there is a need for a modular frame assembly that can be easily assembled, disassembled and reconfigured by a single user in numerous different arrangements for use in all commercial and residential settings. 
     In some examples, the frame assembly is configured as a modular barrier assembly. In particular, the modular barrier assembly may be used to respond to various health and safety codes regulating the display of food or to various environmental safeguards attempting to minimize the spread of airborne particles in the environment. 
     In some examples, the frame assembly is configured as various pieces of furniture of the type described herein that would be light in weight, easily handled, very durable, and cooperatively secured together without the need for screws, bolts, or other connectors. Such furniture could be assembled and disassembled, stowed for storage or transport, and easily cooperatively secured together to form numerous different configurations. 
     According to one embodiment of the invention, a modular frame assembly has a first lateral frame member including a first end including a flange portion extending from a longitudinal axis of the first lateral frame member. The assembly further includes a first side frame member including a longitudinal column defining one or more receiving members. The one or more receiving members are sized and aligned to receive the flange portions to cooperatively secure the first lateral frame member and first side frame member together. 
     According to another embodiment of the invention, a modular frame assembly has a first and second lateral frame member each having a first end, a second end, and a transverse portion extending therebetween. The first end and second end include a flange portion extending downward from a longitudinal axis of the first and second ends. The transverse portion includes an upper edge. A first and second side frame member each comprises a first end, a second end, and a cross panel extending therebetween. The first and second end include a lateral column defining one or more receiving members to receive the flange portions of the first and second lateral frame members. A top planar member has an upper surface and lower surface. The lower surface of the top planar member includes two elongated chambers to receive the upper edges of the transverse portion of the first and second lateral frame members. 
     In some embodiments, methods of forming a modular frame assembly are provided. In one embodiment, a method of forming a modular frame assembly is provided comprising the steps of providing a first lateral frame member, wherein the first lateral frame member includes a first end having a flange portion extending from a longitudinal axis of the first end operable to be cooperatively secured. A first side frame member is provided including one or more longitudinal columns defining one or more receiving members sized to receive the flange portion of the first lateral frame member. The flange portion of the first lateral frame member is aligned with the one or more receiving members of the first side frame member. The flange portion of the first lateral frame member is inserted into the one or more receiving members of the first side frame member to cooperatively secure the first lateral frame member to the first side frame member. 
     In another embodiment, a method of forming a modular frame assembly is provided comprising the steps of providing a first and second lateral frame member, wherein the first and second lateral frame members include a first end, a second end, and a transverse portion extending therebetween. The first end and second end of the first and second lateral frame members include a flange portion extending downward from a longitudinal axis of the first and second ends. The transverse portion includes an upper edge. A first and second side frame member are provided each including a first end, a second end, and a cross panel extending therebetween. The first and second end of the first and second side frame members include a lateral column defining one or more receiving members sized to receive the flange portions of the first and second lateral frame members. A top planar member having an upper surface and a lower surface is provided. The lower surface of the top planar member includes two elongated chambers to receive the upper edges of the transverse portion of the first and second lateral frame members. The flange portion of the first end of the first lateral frame member is aligned with and inserted into the one or more receiving members of the first end of the first side frame member to cooperatively secure the first lateral frame member to the first side frame member. The flange portion of the second end of the second lateral frame member is aligned with and inserted into the one or more receiving members of the second end of the first side frame member to cooperatively secure the second lateral frame member to the first side frame member. The flange portion of the second end of the first lateral frame member is aligned with and inserted into the one or more receiving members of the first end of the second side frame member to cooperatively secure the first lateral frame member to the second side frame member. The flange portion of the first end of the second lateral frame member is aligned with and inserted into the one or more receiving members of the second end of the second side frame member to cooperatively secure the second lateral frame member to the second side frame member. The elongated chambers on the lower surface of the top planar member are aligned with and positioned into the upper edges of the transverse portions of the first and second lateral frame members to secure the top planar member onto the first and second lateral frame member. 
     In other embodiments, modular frame assemblies are provided, and methods of forming other modular frame assemblies, wherein multiple lateral frame members are adapted to be cooperatively secured to a plurality of lateral frame members and/or side frame members. In preferred embodiments, the modular frame assemblies are provided in an assembled state to form a barrier guard. In other preferred embodiments, the modular frame assemblies are provided in an assembled stated to form furniture, such as desks, desks with shelf assemblies, chairs, and other pieces of furniture. 
     The modular frame assembly may be composed of any useful and durable material, including wood, plastic, glass, metal, textile or other suitable materials. Plastics that may be used include polycarbonate, polyethylene, impact resistant nylon and glass filled nylon. The material may be configured to be weather resistant, and may be provided in a number of colors. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The subject matter is described in greater detail below, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG.  1   a    is a perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1   b    is a perspective view of a side frame member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1   c    is a perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1   d    is a perspective view of a locking mechanism according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1   e    is a perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1   f    is a perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  1   g    is a perspective view of a base member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2   a    is a side view of an example side frame member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2   b    is a side view of an example side frame member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  2   c    is a side view of an example side frame member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  3   a    is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  3   b    is a perspective view of a modular barrier frame assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  4   a    is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  4   b    is a side view of a side frame member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  4   c    is a perspective view of a modular barrier frame assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5   a    is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5   b    is a side view of a side frame member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  5   c    is a perspective view of a modular barrier frame assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6   a    is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6   b    is a perspective view of a modular barrier frame assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6   c    is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6   d    is a perspective view of a modular barrier frame member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6   e    is an exploded perspective view of an example implementation according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  6   f    is a perspective view of a modular barrier frame assembly according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  7   a    is an exploded perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a desk; 
         FIG.  7   b    is a perspective view of an example top planar member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  7   c    is a perspective view of an example locking mechanism according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  7   d    is a side view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a desk; 
         FIG.  7   e    is a side view of an alternate modular frame assembly in the configuration of a desk; 
         FIG.  7   f    is a perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a desk; 
         FIG.  8   a    is an exploded perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a plurality of desks; 
         FIG.  8   b    is an exploded perspective view of an alternate modular frame assembly in the configuration of a plurality of desks; 
         FIG.  8   c    is a side view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a plurality of desks; 
         FIG.  8   d    is a perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a plurality of desks; 
         FIG.  8   e    is a perspective view of an alternate modular frame assembly in the configuration of a plurality of desks; 
         FIG.  8   f    is an exploded perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a corner assembly; 
         FIG.  8   g    is a perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a corner assembly; 
         FIG.  8   h    is an exploded perspective view of an alternate modular frame assembly in the configuration of a plurality of desks; 
         FIG.  8   i    is a perspective view of an alternate modular frame assembly in the configuration of a plurality of desks; 
         FIG.  9   a    is an exploded perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a desk and shelf assembly; 
         FIG.  9   b    is a perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a desk and shelf assembly; 
         FIG.  10   a    is an exploded perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a chair assembly; 
         FIG.  10   b    is an exploded perspective view of an alternate locking mechanism according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  10   c    is a perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a chair assembly; 
         FIG.  10   d    is a perspective view of an alternate modular frame assembly in the configuration of a chair assembly; 
         FIG.  11   a    is a side view of an outrigger member according to the present disclosure; 
         FIG.  11   b    is a perspective view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a desk and outrigger assembly; and 
         FIG.  11   c    is a side view of a modular frame assembly in the configuration of a desk and outrigger assembly. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     Referring to the drawings,  FIGS.  1  through  11   , in which like elements are provided having like reference designations throughout the several views, an example implementation of a modular frame assembly is illustrated. 
     The modular frame assembly as used herein is constructed in whole or in part from any suitable material including, but not limited to a wood, glass, plastic, acrylic, metal, composite, or other durable material, sufficiently rigid and having sufficient strength, while being light weight, shatterproof, with suitable waterproofing as appropriate for the intended use. In one embodiment, the device comprises a frame assembly constructed from a plastic material, such as polycarbonate. The polycarbonate comprising the frame assembly provides for transparency, enabling a virtually invisible barrier. It is contemplated that the frame assembly may be easily assembled and reconfigured by a single user as needed. It is also contemplated that the frame assembly may be easily disassembled for replacement in the event of a scratch or damage to any of the members. 
     In another embodiment, the frame assembly is constructed from a durable material, such as wood. The wood comprising the frame assembly can be of various densities, including but not limited to balsam fir, spruce and white pine. In another embodiment, the frame assembly is constructed from plywood, engineered material, or engineered substrate. The frame assembly provided has structural characteristics such that the frame assembly has the capability of being light weight, (e.g., from about approximately 2 pounds to about approximately 15 pounds, typically from about approximately 5 pounds to about 11 pounds) thereby enabling a single user to easily lift, configure, assemble, disassemble and reconfigure, the frame assembly as desired. 
     The modular frame assembly may be used for barrier guards and methods for their construction and use. In particular, the modular frame assembly may be used to respond to various health and safety codes regulating the display of food or to various environmental safeguards attempting to minimize the spread of airborne particles in the environment. The use of a barrier guard placed between an individual and food, or between two individuals, serves to respond to such regulations and other safety concerns regarding airborne particle transmission. The barrier guards may be used in any environment, including schools, doctor&#39;s offices, point of sale counters in retail stores, bars and restaurants, etc. They also may be used in settings having a taller transaction top such as a banks, open concept office spaces and on conference tables. The transparent material of the frame assembly provides a virtually invisible in which a circulation of air is impeded. 
     Advantageously, some of the features of the frame assembly may be used to adjust the height and/or configuration of the barrier guard. For example, the position of the frame members may be adjusted by being cooperatively secured to side members having various sizes and configurations. Additionally, an unlimited number of frame members may be cooperatively secured together to create a near seamless barrier for expanded barriers and transaction tops. Still further, the frame members may be assembled and reassembled into numerous different configurations depending on the use of such barriers in a commercial setting where people interact with each other. Advantageously, the frame assembly as disclosed is light weight and may be easily and swiftly assembled in any configuration as needed, and disassembled as frequently as desired. 
     In still further embodiments, the frame assembly may be used for furniture of the type described herein that would be light in weight, easily handled, durable, and interlocked together, resisting disengagement, without the need for screws, bolts, or other connectors. Further, such furniture could be assembled and disassembled, stowed for storage or transport, and easily interlocked together by a single user to form numerous different configurations. Similar to the benefits of the frame assembly when used as a barrier guard, the frame assembly configured as furniture, such as desks, shelves, chairs, etc., enables a user to adjust the height of the desktop or seat portion of a chair by the selective repositioning of side members between a series of longitudinally selected positions. Additionally, an unlimited number of frame members may be engaged and interlockingly fixed together for a seamless and expanded row of desks, chairs, etc. The frame members may also be manufactured in any dimensional size, as well as in custom sized combinations, with custom selected variable positions, as desired by an end user. Thus, for example and without limitation, such frame members can have heights of about approximately 12″ to about approximately 96″. The illustrated configuration and dimensions are shown to provide one embodiment of the present disclosure. For use as a child&#39;s toy, such frame members can have heights of about approximately 1″ to 24″. It is recognized that various modifications to the configuration and dimensions are contemplated by the present disclosure. 
     Still further, the modularity of the frame assembly is illustrated by utilizing the same limited number of similar or identical frame members to assemble and reassemble a variety of different configurations depending on the desired use of such furniture. For example, the frame assembly used as a desk for an adult may be quickly, and single handedly, disassembled and reconfigured for use as a desk by a toddler or adolescent. Utilizing additional frame members similar or identical to those used to form a first desk, a toddler desk may be assembled alongside an adult sized desk, thereby optimizing the ease of assembly, the use of frame members, as well as the space required for such configurations. 
     In a first family of embodiments, referring to  FIG.  1   a   , a modular interlocking frame assembly  100  is illustrated including at least one lateral frame member  102  including a first end  104  and a second end  106  opposite to the first end  104 . The first end  104  includes at least one flange portion  108  having a downwardly extending L-bend connector  110   a - d  along the longitudinal axis of the first end  104  of lateral frame member  102 . 
     The frame assembly  100  further includes at least one side frame member  120 , as illustrated in  FIG.  1   a   , including a first end  122  and a second end  124  opposite to the first end  122 . The side frame member  120  further includes an outer surface  126  and a thickness  128 . The side frame member  120  includes one or a plurality of receiving members, or slots. Receiving members may be configured in an arrangement such that the receiving members are aligned in one or more columns or offset from each other, parallel or skewed, in close or distant proximity, equal or different distance apart, or symmetrical or asymmetrical from each other. In an embodiment, as illustrated in  FIGS.  1   a  and  1   b   , the receiving members are centrally disposed in columns  132 ,  134 , each having five rectangular receiving members, or slots,  136   a - e ,  138   a - e , respectively, however any number of slots can be provided. It is contemplated that the slots  136   a - e ,  138   a - e  may have any geometrical configuration, including but not limited to square, trapezoid, triangular, circular or oval. As illustrated in  FIGS.  1   a - 1   c   , the slots  136   a - e ,  138   a - e  are aligned to receive the L-bend connectors  110   a - f  of flange portion  108  of first end  104  of lateral frame member  102  to secure the lateral frame member  102  to the side frame member  120  so as to form the barrier frame assembly such as shown in  FIG.  1     c.    
     Referring to  FIG.  1   a   , the flange portion  108  includes a column of a plurality, e.g., four adjacent L-bend connectors  110   a - d , however, any number of L-bend connectors can be provided. In alternative embodiments, the flange portion may include L-bend connectors configured in an arrangement such that the L-bend connectors are aligned in one or more columns or offset from each other, parallel or skewed, in close or distant proximity, equal or different distance apart, or symmetrical or asymmetrical from each other. In an embodiment, as illustrated in  FIGS.  1   a - 1   f   , each of four L-bend connectors  110   a - d  includes a longitudinal protrusion  140   a - 140   d  and a substantially perpendicular downward extending locking tab  142   a - d . As shown in  FIG.  1   a   , the locking tab  142   a - d  may be angled at approximately between 90 to 95 degrees from the bottom of a horizontal portion  143   a  of the longitudinal protrusion  140   a . In use, the lateral frame member  102  is cooperatively secured with the side frame member  120  by positioning the lateral frame member  102  such that its flange portion  108  is aligned with a longitudinal column  132 ,  134  of the side frame member  120 . Either longitudinal column  132  or  134  may be utilized as desired. Accordingly, each of the four L-bend connectors  110   a - d  may be aligned with the slots  136   a - e  or  138   a - e  of column  132  or  134 , respectively. 
     In an embodiment as shown in  FIG.  1   a - 1   e   , with the alignment of the longitudinal protrusions  140   a - 140   d  with slots  136   b  through  136   e , the bottom portion  150  of lateral frame member  102  remains abutting the horizontal mounting surface  156 . In use, as illustrated in  FIGS.  1   a - 1   e   , to secure the lateral frame member  102  to the side frame member  120 , the longitudinal protrusions  140   a - 140   d  are aligned with slots  136   b - 136   e , and the longitudinal protrusions  140   a - 140   d  are inserted into the respective slots  136   b - 136   e  in direction  144  until the locking tabs  142   a - 142   d  and longitudinal protrusions  140   a - 140   d  pass through the thickness  128  of the side frame member  120  and protrude through the respective slots  136   b - 136   e  such that the horizontal portion  143   a  engages onto the bottom portion  145   b  of slot  136   b . The L-bend connectors  110   a - d  are then pressed downwardly by a user pressing the lateral frame member  102  in the direction of gravity as indicated by arrow  146 . Alternatively, the side frame member  120  may be pulled upward in the opposite to the direction of gravity as indicated by arrow  158 . These actions cause the downwardly extending locking tabs  142   a - 142   d  of L-bend connectors  110   a - d  to be mechanically captured by the outer surface  126  of side frame member  120  directly beneath the slots  136   b - 136   e  while engaging the longitudinal protrusions  140   a - 140   d  in slots  136   b - 136   e . The forward edge  148  of the first end  104  of lateral frame member  102  thus becomes releasably and securely mechanically interlocked with the side frame member  120 . In use, each of the L-bend connectors  110   a - d  may be secured and released from the slots  136   b - 136   e  singularly or simultaneously. 
     In another embodiment as illustrated in  FIG.  1   f   , the assembly includes a lateral frame member  102  and a first and second side frame members  120 ,  130 , respectively. As shown, the lateral frame member  102  includes a first and second end  104 ,  106 . The first and second ends  104 ,  106  each includes a flange portion  108  having a downwardly extending L-bend connectors  110   a - d  along the longitudinal axis of the first and second ends  104 ,  106  of lateral frame member  102 . The first and second side frame members  120 ,  130 , respectively, each have one or a plurality of receiving members  136   a - e ,  138   a - e  to allow for the alignment and insertion of L-bend connectors  110   a - d  on both the first and second ends  104 ,  106 , respectively, of the lateral frame member  102 . The L-bend connectors  110   a - d  of the first and second end  104 ,  106  enable the lateral frame member  102  to be selectively repositioned in a direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the lateral frame member  102  and interlockingly secured to a first side frame member  120  between a series of longitudinal positioned receiving members  136   a - e ,  138   a - e  and to a second side frame member  130 . 
     In an embodiment, as illustrated in  FIG.  1   f   , lateral frame member  102  is movable along a height of first side frame member  120  and second side frame member  130  within a longitudinal range as shown by the series of locations of the plurality of slots  136   a - e ,  138   a - e , respectively, representing the two columns of slots  132 ,  134  on the first and second side frame member  120 ,  130 , respectively. As shown in  FIG.  1   e   , by aligning the four L-bend connectors  110   a - d  of the first and second ends  104 ,  106 , respectively, of the lateral frame member  102 , such that L-bend connectors  110   c  and  110   d  of the first and second ends  104 ,  106 , respectively, align with and are inserted within the slots  138   a  and  138   b  of column  134  in each of the first and second side frame members  120 ,  130 , respectively, the height of the lateral frame member  102  may be increased, as desired by a user, in a direction relative to the longitudinal axis of the lateral frame member  102 . As shown in  FIG.  1   e   , in such configuration, the bottom portion  150  of lateral frame member  102  is no longer flush with its mounting surface  156 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  1   f   , a desired vertical space  152  is created beneath the bottom portion  150  of lateral frame member  102  and the mounting surface  156  at an increased height above the mounting surface  156  approximately equal to the distance between slots  138   c  of the first and second side members  120 ,  130 , respectively, and the bottom portion  154  of the first and second side members  120 ,  130 , respectively. Such positioning creates the desired vertical space  152 , or transaction space, beneath the lateral frame member  102  and the mounting surface  156 . Depending on the desired height of the lateral frame member  102 , the lateral frame member  102  may be moved further upward or downward relative to the longitudinal axis of the lateral frame member  102 , as desired, by aligning the L-bend connectors  110   a - d  with and into any one or more of the one or a plurality of receiving members  136   a - e  in column  132  or one or a plurality of receiving members  138   a - e  in column  134 . Alternatively, the L-bend connectors  110   a - d  of the first end  104  of the lateral frame member  102  may be aligned with and inserted into the receiving members of column  132  and the second end  106  of the lateral frame member  102  may be aligned with and inserted into the receiving members of column  134 . 
     In use, the transaction space  152  may be created and increased by selectively repositioning the lateral frame member  102  such that the longitudinal protrusions  140   c - d  and extending locking tabs  142   c - d  are aligned with and inserted into slots  138   a - b , bringing the top portions  168   c - d  of longitudinal protrusions  140   c - d  into contact with the top portion  170   a - b  of the slots  138   a - b , thereby positioning the longitudinal protrusions  140   a  and  140   b  and extending locking tabs  142   a  and  142   b  disengaged from and above the first side frame member  120 , as shown in  FIG.  1   f   . In such configuration, as shown in  FIG.  1   f   , the bottom portion  162  of the locking tab  142   b  is aligned with the upper edge  160  of the side frame member  120  and the longitudinal protrusion  140   b  is passed through the thickness  128  of the side frame member  120  in direction  144  with respect to a first side frame member  120 , and in direction  164  with respect to a second side frame member  130  until the locking tab  142   b  engages with the upper edge  160  of the side frame members  120 ,  130 , respectively. 
     In another alternative embodiment, the transaction space  152  may be still further increased by selectively repositioning the lateral frame member  102  such that only the longitudinal protrusions  140   d  and extending locking tabs  142   d  are aligned with slots  136   a  or  138   a  in the first and second side frame members  120 ,  130  (not shown). Accordingly, a user may reconfigure the assembly to provide for various height transaction spaces  152  to enable the user an opportunity to transact business, exchange goods, money, documents, food, or the like to an individual on the outer surface  166  of the lateral frame member  102 . 
     Disengagement and removal of the lateral frame member  102  from the side frame member  120  is easily accomplished by lifting the lateral frame member  102  upwardly from its supported interlocked position with the side frame member  120  bringing the top portions  168   a - d  of longitudinal protrusions  140   a - d  of L-bend connectors  110   a - d  into contact with the top portion  170   b - e  of the slots  136   b - e  such that the L-bend connectors  110   a - d  are in a substantially parallel relationship to the slots  136   b - e  whereupon the L-bend connectors  110   a - d  can be withdrawn through the slots  136   b - e , thereby separating and removing the lateral frame member  102  from the side frame member  120 . The same method of disengagement may be performed for removing the second side frame member  130  from the lateral frame member  102 . 
     In an embodiment, as illustrated in  FIGS.  1   f  and  1   g   , the bottom portions  154  of the side frame members  120 ,  130 , respectively, may be mounted onto base members  180  to avoid damage to a mounting surface as well as to provide additional stability to the configured assembly. Base members  180  include a first rib  182  and a second rib  184  opposite to the first rib  182 . The first and second ribs  182 ,  184 , respectively, have a rigid construction and define a longitudinal channel  186  disposed between the first and second ribs  182 ,  184 , respectively. The longitudinal channel  186 , extending in the longitudinal direction of the ribs  182 ,  184 , has a width of a sufficient size, e.g., approximately 1.1 times greater, than the size of the bottom portion  154  of a side frame member which may be inserted. In an alternative embodiment, a bottom portion of a lateral frame member may be inserted into the base members. The placement of the bottom portion  154  of the side frame member into the base members enables the bottom portion  154  of the side frame member to resist linear and angular movement on the mounting surface. In use, upon constructing a frame assembly, the first and second bottom portions  154  of each of the side frame members are inserted into base members  180 , as illustrated in  FIG.  1   e   . In a constructed frame assembly, the base member of each side frame member each have a common elevation on a horizontal mounting surface, such as a top of a table, counter, floor, or other transaction area. 
     As shown in  FIG.  2   a   , a side frame member  220  has a first end  222 , a second end  224  opposite to the first end  222 , a top portion,  226 , and a bottom portion  228 . Referring to  FIG.  2   a   , the bottom portion  228  may be configured having a widening bottom portion extending outward from the top portion  226 . In an alternative embodiment, as shown in  FIGS.  2   b  and  2   c   , respectively, the side frame member  220  may be configured having bottom portions  248  of equal or narrower dimensions than the top portions  246 . Additionally, in an alternative embodiment, it is contemplated that the first side frame member  220  may be configured with equal or different dimensions than the second side frame member  222  (not shown). 
     Although the lateral frame member is shown to be generally rectangular in geometry, it will be appreciated that essentially any shape or size of lateral frame member may be employed. As illustrated in  FIG.  3   a   , in another embodiment, lateral frame member  302  is generally rectangular in geometry and is provided with a further modification which is suitable for enabling a transaction space without raising the entirety of the lateral frame member as described above with respect to  FIG.  1   f   . The lateral frame member  302  is provided with a U-shaped cut out opening  308  in the bottom portion  310  of the lateral frame member  302 . The cut out opening  308 , which may be of any shape or size as desired by a user, enables a user the opportunity to transact business, exchange goods, money, documents, food, or the like to an individual on the outer surface  361  of the lateral frame member  302 . 
     In an embodiment, as shown in  FIG.  3   a   , a lateral frame member  302  may be interlocked together with one or more additional lateral frame members,  304 ,  306 , respectively, to form an extended barrier of lateral frame members. Similarly, additional lateral frame members (not shown) may be added to the lateral frame members  304 ,  306 , respectively, to form a further extended barrier of lateral frame members. As shown in  FIG.  3   a   , the lateral frame member  302  may be interlocked with first and second side frame members  312 ,  314  by positioning the first side frame member  312  adjacent to a first side  316  of lateral frame member  302  such that L-bend connectors  320   a - d  of the first side  316  of lateral frame member  302  are aligned with a selective number of slots  324   a - e  from a first column of slots  326  or a selective number of slots  328   a - e  from a second column of slots  330  in the side frame member  312 . The L-bend connectors  320   a - d  of the first side  316  are then inserted into the selectively aligned slots  324   b - e , and the lateral frame member  302  is then pressed down in the direction of gravity, as indicated by arrow  446 , and the downwardly extending locking tabs  332   a - d  of L-bend connectors  320   a - d  are mechanically captured by the outer surface  336  of side frame member  312  directly beneath the slots  324   b - e  while engaging the longitudinal protrusions  322   a - d  in slots  324   b - e.    
     To interlock an additional second lateral frame member  304  onto the first lateral frame member  302 , an additional second lateral frame member  304 , having a first end  350  and a second end  352  is aligned adjacent to corresponding receiving members, or slots, of the first side frame member  312 . In the event the first column  326  of slots  328   a - e  received the L-bend connectors  320   a - d  of the first side  316  of the first lateral frame member  302 , then the second column  330  of slots  328   a - e  in the first side frame member  312  remain available to receive L-bend connectors  360   a - d  of the second end  352  of the second lateral frame member  304 . The L-bend connectors  360   a - d  can be aligned and slid into the slots  328   b - e  of column  330  of side frame member  312  in the same manner as the L-bend connectors  320   a - d  are inserted into the selectively aligned slots  324   b - e . The lateral frame member  304  is then pressed down in the direction of gravity, as indicated by arrow  446 , and the downwardly extending locking tabs of L-bend connectors  360   a - d  are mechanically captured by the inner surface  370  of side frame member  312  directly beneath the slots  328   b - e  while engaging the longitudinal protrusions in slots  328   b - e.    
     With the addition of a third lateral frame member  306 , having a first end  372  and a second end  374 , the third lateral frame member may be added to the second side frame member  314  in the manner described with respect to the addition of the second lateral frame member  304  being interlockingly secured to the first side frame member  312 . The slots on the side frame members may be configured such that at least one of the slots in a first set of slots  390  are offset from at least one of the slots in a second set of slots  392 , such slots being in any configuration. Accordingly, one lateral frame member uses one set of slots  390 , and another lateral frame member uses another set of slots  392  offset from the first set of slots. As shown in  FIG.  3   a   , the first column  390  of slots  334   a - e  in the second side frame member  314  are occupied with the L-bend connectors  342   a - d  of the second side  318  of the first lateral frame member  302 . The L-bend connectors  386   a - d  of the first end  372  of the third lateral frame member  306  are then aligned with and inserted into the corresponding second column  392  of slots  344   a - e  in the second side frame member  314 . In this manner, a third side frame member  376  may be secured to the second side  374  of the third lateral frame member  306  and a fourth side frame member  378  may be secured to the first side  350  of the second lateral frame member  304  so as to form the barrier frame assembly such as shown in  FIG.  3   b   . An unlimited number of lateral frame members and side frame members may be secured to assemble any length of barrier as desired. In an embodiment, any of the lateral frame members may have a different geometry based upon the desired use by an end user. In a further embodiment, any of the lateral frame members may have U-shaped cut out openings  308  as shown in  FIG.  3     a.    
     In further embodiments, side frame members may have additional configurations of receiving members, or slots. As shown in  FIGS.  4   a  and  4   b   , a rectangular first side frame member  404 , includes three parallel columns of four vertically disposed rectangular slots  412   a - d ,  414   a - d , and  416   a - d , respectively. In other embodiments, the slots on the side frame members may be configured such that at least one of the slots in a first set of slots are offset from at least one of the slots in a second set of slots, such slots being in any configuration. As shown in  FIG.  4   b   , first side frame member  404  includes three parallel columns of four vertically disposed different sized rectangular slots  412   a - d ,  414   a - d , and  416   a - d . As shown in  FIG.  4   b   , the left and right columns of slots  412   a - d ,  416   a - d  may be configured with a wider width than the center column of slots  414   a - d . Alternatively, it is contemplated that the columns of slots may be of differing shapes and sizes, i.e., the center column of slots may have a wider width than the left and right columns of slots (not shown). In an alternative embodiment, the center column of slots may have an increased number of slots than the slots on the left and right columns of slots (not shown). An increased number of slots in a center column of slots enables a center frame member to be higher than one or a plurality of a frame members on its first and/or second sides. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  4   a  and  4   b   , a first lateral frame member  402  is disposed between first and second side frame members  404 ,  406 , respectively. First lateral frame member  402  includes a first end  418  and second end  420  opposite the first end  418 . First end  418  of first lateral frame member  402  includes L-bend connectors  422   a - d . Center slots  414   a - d  on the first side member  404  are selectively aligned to receive the corresponding L-bend connectors  422   a - d  of the first end  418  of lateral frame member  402  to secure the first lateral frame member  402  to the side frame member  404 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  4   a   , there is shown a second lateral frame member  408  having a first end  424 , and a third lateral frame member  410  having a first end  426 . Each of the first ends  424 ,  426  of second and third lateral frame members  408 ,  410 , respectively, include L-bend connectors  428   a - d ,  430   a - d . The left and right columns of slots  412   a - d ,  416   a - d  of the first side frame member  404  are selectively aligned to slide the corresponding L-bend connectors  428   a - d  of the second lateral frame member  408  and L-bend connectors  430   a - d  of the third lateral frame member  410  into the slots  412   a - d  and  416   a - d , respectively, to secure the second lateral frame member  408  and the third lateral frame member  410  to the first side frame member  404 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  4   a   , there is shown a second rectangular side frame member  406  including three parallel columns of four vertically disposed rectangular slots  434   a - d ,  436   a - d , and  438   a - d , respectively. As shown in  FIG.  4   b   , the left and right columns of slots  434   a - d ,  438   a - d  may be configured with a wider width than the center column of slots  436   a - d . Alternatively, it is contemplated that the columns of slots may be of differing shapes and sizes, i.e., the center column of slots may have a wider width and a different number of slots than the left and right columns of slots (not shown). 
     Referring to  FIG.  4   a   , there is shown a fourth lateral frame member  440  and fifth lateral frame member  442 , each having a first end  444 ,  446 . The first ends  444 ,  446  of the fourth and fifth lateral frame members  440 ,  442  each have L-bend connectors  448   a - d ,  450   a - d . The center slots  436   a - d  of the second side frame member  406  are selectively aligned to receive the corresponding L-bend connectors  432   a - d  of the second end  420  of the first lateral frame member  402  to secure the first lateral frame member  402  to the second side frame member  406 . The left and right columns of slots  434   a - d ,  438   a - d  of the second side frame member  406  are selectively aligned to slide the corresponding L-bend connectors  448   a - d  of the fourth lateral frame member  440  and L-bend connectors  450   a - d  of the fifth lateral frame member  442  into the slots  434   a - d  and  438   a - d , respectively, to secure the fourth lateral frame member  440  and the fifth lateral frame member  442  to the second side frame member  406 , so as to form the barrier frame assembly such as shown in  FIG.  4     c.    
     Upon placement of the L-bend connectors  428   a - d  of the second lateral frame member  408  into wider slots  412   a - d , L-bend connectors  430   a - d  of the third lateral frame member  410  into the wider slots  416   a - d , L-bend connectors  448   a - d  of the fourth lateral frame member  440  into the wider slots  434   a - d , and L-bend connectors  450   a - d  of the fifth lateral frame member  442  into the wider slots  438   a - d , additional space is provided within the slots,  412   a - d ,  416   a - d ,  434   a - d  and  438   a - d , respectively, for low friction independent pivotal and rotatable movement of the second, third, fourth and fifth lateral frame members  408 ,  410 ,  440 ,  442 , respectively, to enable the second, third, fourth, and fifth lateral frame members  408 ,  410 ,  440 ,  442  to be rotatable to approximately 90 degrees from the adjacent frame member and approximately 45 degrees from the longitudinal axis of the adjacent side frame member. Accordingly, the second and third lateral frame members  408 ,  410 , respectively, are rotatable to approximately 90 degrees with respect to each other, and approximately 45 degrees from the longitudinal axis of the first side frame member  404 ; the fourth and fifth lateral frame members  440 ,  442 , respectively, are rotatable to approximately 90 degrees with respect to each other, and approximately 45 degrees from the longitudinal axis of the second lateral frame member  406 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  4   a   , as the second, third, fourth and fifth lateral frame members,  408 ,  410 ,  440 ,  442 , respectively, are pivoted or rotated, they may be positioned at a wide variety of orientations, from approximately parallel to the first lateral frame member  402 , when the second, third, fourth and fifth lateral frame members  408 ,  410 ,  440 ,  442 , respectively, are not rotated from their initial position upon securement to the first lateral frame member  402 , to approximately perpendicular to the first lateral frame member  402 , when the second and third lateral frame members  408 ,  410 , respectively, are each rotated approximately 90 degrees, in opposite directions, from their initial positions upon securement to the first lateral frame member  402 , and the fourth and fifth lateral frame members  440 ,  442 , respectively are each rotated approximately 90 degrees, in opposite directions, from their initial positions upon securement to the first lateral frame member  402 . The pivotal movement of the second, third, fourth and fifth lateral frame members  408 ,  410 ,  440 ,  442  enable each of the four lateral frame members  408 ,  410 ,  440 ,  442 , respectively, to be selectively positioned at a plurality of different angular orientations to accommodate various transaction or work areas, thereby accommodating four distinct transaction or work areas, A, B, C, and D, as shown in  FIG.  4   c   . In similar manner, in a further embodiment, additional side frame members may be interlockingly coupled to one or more of the second ends of the second, third, fourth, or fifth lateral frame members  408 ,  410 ,  440 ,  442 , respectively, to add additional distinct transaction or work areas to the assembly. 
     In an embodiment, upon selectively positioning one or more of the second, third, fourth or fifth lateral frame members,  408 ,  410 ,  440 ,  452 , respectively, to a desired location, the lateral frame members may be stabilized in such desired position with the application of a removable adhesive attached to the bottom surface of the second, third, fourth, or fifth lateral frame members  408 ,  410 ,  440 ,  452 , respectively, to adhere to the top of a mounting surface (not shown). 
     In another embodiment, as illustrated in  FIGS.  5   a  and  5   b   , first and second side frame members  504 ,  506  include parallel left and right columns of slots,  528   a - e ,  530   a - e  on the first side frame member and  532   a - e ,  534   a - e  on the second side frame member, configured such that one column of slots,  530   a - e  and  534   a - e  is wider than slots  528   a - e  and  532   a - e . In this embodiment, one or a plurality of slots have widths greater than, e.g., 1.1 times greater than, the width of the corresponding L-bend connectors of a lateral frame member received in the slots such that the slots allow for low friction independent pivotal and rotatable movement of the lateral frame member, enabling a user to selectively position a lateral frame member at a plurality of different angular orientations to another lateral frame member, as shown in  FIG.  5   c   , to allow curvatures of lateral frame members to accommodate various transaction or work areas. Referring to  FIG.  5   a   , first lateral frame member  502  includes a first end  512  and a second end  514  opposite to first end  512 . The first and second ends  512 ,  514 , respectively, each have L-bend connectors  538   a - d ,  540   a - d , respectively. The L-bend connectors  538   a - d ,  540   a - d  can be selectively aligned and inserted into slots  528   b - e  and  532   b - e , respectively, of first and second side frame members,  508 ,  510 , to secure the first end  512  of the first lateral frame member  502  to the first side frame member  508  and the second end  514  of the first lateral frame member  502  to the second side frame member  510 . 
     The wider slots  530   b - e  of the first side frame member  504  are then selectively aligned to receive corresponding L-bend connectors  542   a - d  of a second side  518  of a second lateral frame member  508  to secure the second lateral frame member  508  to the first side frame member  504 . The wider slots  534   b - e  of the second side frame member  506  are selectively aligned to receive corresponding L-bend connectors  544   a - d  of a first side  520  of the third lateral frame member  510  to secure the third lateral frame member  510  to the second side frame member  506 . Upon placement of the L-bend connectors  542   a - d  of the second side  518  of a second lateral frame member  508  into the wider slots  530   b - e , and L-bend connectors  544   a - d  of the first side  520  of the third lateral frame member  510  into the wider slots  534   b - e , additional space is provided within the slots,  530   b - e ,  534   b - e , respectively, for low friction independent pivotal and rotatable movement of the second and third lateral frame members  508 ,  510 , respectively, to enable the second and third lateral frame members  508 ,  510  to be rotatable and to provide a curved barrier along the second, first, and third lateral frame members,  508 ,  502 ,  510 , respectively, so as to form the barrier frame assembly such as shown in  FIG.  5   c   . The degree of curvature of such extended barrier may be varied depending on the desired pivotal movement of the second and third lateral frame members  508 ,  510 , with respect to the first lateral frame member  502 . 
     In still further embodiments, assemblies may be configured from lateral frame members having one or a plurality of receiving members, L-bend connectors, or both, on a first end and/or second end. In an embodiment, referring to  FIGS.  6   a  and  6   b   , a modular interlocking frame assembly  600  is illustrated including a first and second lateral frame member  602 ,  604 , each including a first end  606 ,  610 , respectively and a second end  608 ,  612 , respectively opposite to the first end  606 ,  610 . The first ends  606 ,  610  each include L-bend connectors  618   a - d ,  620   a - d , respectively, and receiving members, and slots  622   a - d ,  624   a - d , respectively, along the longitudinal axis of the first ends  606 ,  610  of first and second lateral frame member  602 ,  604 , however, any number of L-bend connectors or receiving members can be provided in any orientation or configuration. In an embodiment, as shown in  FIG.  6   a   , the second end  608  of the first lateral frame member  602  can have L-bend connectors  626   a - d  along the longitudinal axis of the second end  608 . In alternative embodiments, the second end  608  of the first lateral frame member  602  may also have a plurality of slots (not shown). In an alternative embodiment, the second end  608  of the first lateral frame member  602  may have neither L-bend connectors nor slots (as shown in the second end  612  of second lateral member  604 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  6   a   , the modular frame assembly  600  further includes a third lateral frame member  630  including a first end  632  and a second end  634  opposite to the first end  632 . The first and second ends  632 ,  634 , respectively, each include a vertical column including a plurality of slots  636   a - d ,  638   a - d , respectively, and L-bend connectors  640   a - d ,  642   a - d , respectively, however any number of slots or L-bend connectors can be provided in any orientation or configuration. In use, the slots  636   a - d ,  638   a - d , respectively, of the third lateral frame member  630  are aligned to receive the L-bend connectors  618   a - d  of the first end  606  of the first lateral frame member  602 , and L-bend connectors  620   a - d  of the first end  610  of the second lateral frame member  604 , to secure the first and third lateral frame members  602 ,  630 , respectively, together and the second and third lateral frame members  604 ,  630 , respectively, together, so as to form the barrier frame assembly such as shown in  FIG.  6   b   , and thereby creating a partially enclosed and distinct transaction or work area A. In an embodiment, any one or a plurality of lateral frame members may be configured with a cut out opening, which may be of any shape or size as desired by a user. Alternatively, in use, the L-bend connectors  618   a - d  of the first end  632  of the third lateral frame member  630  are aligned and inserted into the slots  622   a - d  of the first end  606  of the first lateral frame member  602  and the L-bend connectors  620   a - d  of the first end  610  of the second lateral frame member  604  are aligned and inserted into the slots  638   a - d  of the second end  634  of the third lateral frame member  630  to secure the first and third lateral frame members  602 ,  630 , respectively, together and the second and third lateral frame members  604 ,  630 , respectively, together. 
     In alternative embodiments, any number of transaction or work areas may be configured in any configuration with the addition of lateral frame members. Referring to  FIG.  6   c   , the first end  610  of the second lateral frame member  604  may be modified to include an additional plurality of slots  656   a - d  in a vertical configuration parallel to the slots  624   a - d , however any configuration of slots may be provided. With the inclusion of the additional plurality of slots  656   a - d , the first end  610  of the second lateral frame member  604  may also be modified to remove the L-bend connectors, as shown in  FIG.  6   c   . A fourth lateral frame member  650  is provided. Fourth lateral frame member  650  includes a first end  652  and a second end  654  opposite to the first end  652 . The first and second ends  652 ,  654 , respectively, each include a vertical column including a plurality of slots  658   a - d ,  660   a - d , respectively, and L-bend connectors  662   a - d ,  664   a - d , respectively, however any number of slots or L-bend connectors can be provided in any orientation or configuration. 
     In use, as illustrated in  FIG.  6   c   , the slots  656   a - d  of the first end  610  of the second lateral frame member  604  are aligned to receive the L-bend connectors  662   a - d  of the first end  652  of the fourth lateral frame member  650  to secure the second and fourth lateral frame members  604 ,  650 , respectively, together. As shown in  FIG.  6   c   , any one or a plurality of lateral frame members may be configured with a cut out opening  666 , which may be of any shape or size as desired by a user. 
     Referring to  FIG.  6   c   , a fifth lateral frame member  670  is provided. Fifth lateral frame member  670  includes a first end  672  and a second end  674  opposite to the first end  672 . The first end  672  of the fifth lateral frame member  670  includes a plurality of slots  676   a - d  and L-bend connectors  678   a - d . In use, the plurality of slots  676   a - d  on the first end  672  of the fifth lateral frame member  670  are aligned to receive the L-bend connectors  664   a - d  of the second end  654  of the fourth lateral frame member  650  to secure the fifth and fourth lateral frame members  670 ,  650 , respectively, together. In an alternative embodiment, in use, the L-bend connectors  678   a - d  of the first end  672  of the fifth lateral frame member  670  are aligned and inserted into the slots  660   a - d  of the second end  654  of the fourth lateral frame member  650  to secure the fifth and the fourth lateral frame members  670 ,  650 , respectively, together, thereby creating a partially enclosed and distinct transaction or work area B. As shown in  FIG.  6   c   , any one or a plurality of lateral frame members may be configured with a cut out opening  666 , which may be of any shape or size as desired by a user. In similar manners, additional lateral frame members may be interlockingly secured to create additional barriers and additional transaction or work areas as discussed. 
     In an alternative embodiment, to create an extended barrier with third and fourth lateral frame members  630 ,  650 , respectively, the first, third, and fifth lateral frame members  602 ,  604 ,  670 , respectively, could be replaced with side frame members as discussed in reference to  FIGS.  1 - 5   , having a plurality of slots in a variety of configurations to receive the L-bend connectors of each of the third and fourth lateral frame members  630 ,  650 , respectively (not shown). 
     Referring to  FIG.  6   e   , the modular frame assembly  680  includes first, second, third and fourth lateral frame members  682 ,  683 ,  684 ,  685 , respectively, each of which including first ends  686 ,  687 ,  688 ,  689 . The first end  686  of the first lateral frame member  682  includes L-bend connectors  690   a - d . The first ends  687 ,  688 , of the second and third lateral frame members  683 ,  684 , respectively, include L-bend connectors  691   a - d  and  692   a - d , and first ends  687 ,  688 , and  689  of the second, third and fourth lateral frame members, respectively, include slots  694   a - d ,  695   a - d ,  696   a - d , respectively. 
     In use, the L-bend connectors  690   a - d  of the first end  686  of the first lateral frame member  682  are aligned and inserted into the slots  694   a - d  of the first end  687  of the second lateral frame member  683  to secure the first and second lateral frame members  682 ,  683 , respectively, to each other. The L-bend connectors  691   a - d  on the first end  687  of the second lateral frame member  683  is aligned and inserted into the slots  695   a - d  of the first end  688  of the third lateral frame member  684  to secure the third lateral frame member  684  to the second lateral frame member  683 . The L-bend connectors  692   a - d  on the first end  688  of the third lateral frame member  684  is aligned and inserted into the slots  696   a - d  of the first end  689  of the fourth lateral frame member  685  to secure the fourth lateral frame member  685  to the third lateral frame member  684 . The L-bend connectors  693   a - d  on the first end  689  of the fourth lateral frame member  685  is aligned and inserted into the slots  690   a - d  of the first end  686  of the first lateral frame member  682  to secure the fourth lateral frame member  685  to the first lateral frame member  682 , thereby mechanically interlocking and releasably securing the first, second, third and fourth lateral frame members  682 ,  683 ,  684  and  685 , respectively, together, so as to form the barrier frame assembly such as shown in  FIG.  6   f   , and creating four partially enclosed and distinct transaction or work areas A, B, C, and D. 
     In an alternative embodiment, the first end  686  of the first lateral frame member  682  also includes one or a plurality of slots (not shown). In such alternative embodiment, the L-bend connectors of the fourth lateral frame member may be aligned and inserted into the plurality of slots on the first end of the first lateral frame member. In a further alternative embodiment, the first end  689  of the fourth lateral frame member  685  may include only slots. 
     In an alternative embodiment, each of the first, second, third, and fourth lateral frame members  682 ,  683 ,  684 ,  685 , respectively, include second ends opposite to the first ends having one or a plurality of L-bend connectors and/or one or a plurality of slots (not shown). Additional lateral frame members or side frame members may be interlockingly secured to the second ends of each of the first, second, third, and fourth lateral frame members  682 ,  683 ,  684 ,  685 , respectively, to interlockingly secure additional lateral frame members and/or side frame members to one or a plurality of the first, second, third, or fourth lateral frame members  682 ,  683 ,  684 ,  685 , respectively, to assemble various configurations of lateral frame members, as desired (not shown). This pattern may be repeated to permit any number of lateral frame members to be aligned in a row in such manner or to create a desired number of transaction or work areas as described. 
     The lateral frame members of the modular frame assembly may be variously shaped and assembled with each other to create any type of construction. In a second family of embodiments, the modular frame assembly is provided with frame members which may be implemented with alternative constructions, and shaped and sized for any practical use, such as, for example, structures such as furniture or a child&#39;s toy. 
     Referring to  FIG.  7   a   , a modular interlocking frame assembly  700  is illustrated to include a pair of first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, positioned vertically and spaced apart from each other having a transverse portion along the longitudinal axis defining a length. The first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  further include one or a plurality of flange portion(s). The flange portions can be disposed at any location on the lateral frame members. The lateral frame members are interlockingly connected to a pair of vertical first and second side frame members  706 ,  708 , respectively, positioned between the pair of lateral frame members  702 ,  704  and spaced apart from each other partially enclosing a space and forming a panel assembly which may be configured as a desk assembly, table assembly, shelf assembly, chair assembly, or other various configurations of furniture assemblies. In alternative embodiments, such furniture assemblies may also be configured as small construction frame assemblies for use as children&#39;s toys. 
     Referring to  FIG.  7   a   , the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  include a first end  710 ,  712 , respectively, a second end  714 ,  716 , respectively, opposite to the first end  710 ,  712 , respectively, and a transverse portion  718 , 720 , respectively, extending between the first end  710 ,  712 , respectively, and second end,  714 ,  716 , respectively. The first ends  710 ,  712 , respectively, and second ends  714 ,  716 , respectively, each include at least one flange portion  721 ,  722  on the first ends  710 ,  712  and  725 ,  727  on the second ends,  714 ,  716 , respectively, transverse from a longitudinal axis of the first end  710 ,  712 , respectively, and second end  714 ,  716 , respectively, of lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively. The transverse portion  718 ,  720 , respectively, includes an upper edge  724 ,  726 , respectively. First and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  can be used on any of the modular frame assemblies described herein in connection with  FIGS.  1 - 11    or any other modular frame assemblies described herein. 
     Referring to  FIG.  7   a   , the flange portions  721  and  722  each include a column of three downwardly extending L-bend connectors  728   a - c ,  730   a - c  of the first ends  710 ,  712  of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively. The flange portions  725  and  727  each include a column of two downwardly extending L-bend connectors  732   a - b ,  734   a - b  of the second ends  714 ,  716  of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively. It is contemplated that any number or configuration of L-bend connectors can be provided to the first or second ends  710 ,  712 , or  714 ,  716  of the first or second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  7   a  through  7   c   , the L-bend connectors  728   a - c ,  730   a - c ,  732   a - b , and  734   a - b  each include an extension portion  736  and corresponding perpendicular locking tabs  738 . The extensions  736  have a length of approximately 0.5″ to 3″ and a width of approximately 0.125″ to 2.0″ and locking tabs  738  have a length of approximately 0.25″ to 3″ and a width of approximately 0.125″ to approximately 2″, as illustrated in  FIG.  7   c   . The extension portions  736  and locking tabs  738  can be used on any of the modular frame assemblies described herein in connection with  FIGS.  1 - 11    or any other modular frame assemblies described herein. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  7   a   , the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  are parallel and substantially identical to each other. Accordingly, the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  could be flipped over about a central lateral axis whereupon the first end would become the second end, and the second end would become the first end. This enables multiple L-bend connectors of lateral frame members to be inserted into slots on both an inner and outer surface of a pair of parallel and substantially identical side frame members, thereby enabling desk assemblies having a variety of different heights to be aligned in a row, as described in reference to  FIGS.  7   a  through  7   f   , and  FIGS.  8   a    through  8   g.    
     As illustrated in  FIG.  7   a   , the modular frame assembly  700  further includes a first and second side frame member  706 ,  708  including first ends  740 ,  742 , respectively, second ends  744 ,  746 , respectively, opposite to the first ends  740 ,  742 , respectively, and a cross panel  748 ,  750 , respectively, extending therebetween the first and second side frame members  706 ,  708 , respectively. The cross panels  748 ,  750 , each having an upper edge  794 ,  796 , respectively. The first and second side frame members  706 ,  708 , respectively as shown in  FIG.  7   a    are parallel and substantially identical. The first and second side frame members  706 ,  708  include an inner surface  752 ,  754 , respectively, an outer surface  756 ,  758 , respectively, and a thickness  760 ,  762 , respectively. In an alternative embodiment, the thicknesses  760 ,  762  of the first and second side frame member  706 ,  708  may differ from each other. First and second side frame members  706 ,  708  can be used on any of the modular frame assemblies described herein in connection with  FIGS.  1 - 11    or any other modular frame assemblies described herein. 
     The first ends  740 ,  742  and second ends  744 ,  746  of the first and second side frame members  706 ,  708 , respectively, include a longitudinal column  764 ,  766 , and  768 ,  770  respectively, defining one or a plurality of receiving members, or slots. It is contemplated that receiving members, or slots, may be configured in an arrangement such that the receiving members are aligned in one or more columns or offset from each other, parallel or skewed, in close or distant proximity, equal or different distance apart, or symmetrical or asymmetrical from each other. It is also contemplated that the number or configuration of receiving members in a first end of a side member may be the same or different than in the second end of a side member, and that the number or configuration of receiving members in one side frame member may be different than in another side frame member. 
     Referring to  FIG.  7   a   , the columns  764 ,  766 ,  768 ,  770  of the first and second side frame members each includes seven slots  772   a - g ,  774   a - g ,  776   a - g  and  778   a - g , respectively, however any number of slots in any shape, height, width or configuration, can be provided. In another embodiment, the height of the side frame members  706 ,  708  may be adjusted thereby increasing or decreasing the number of slots within the columns  764 ,  766 ,  768 ,  770 . A side frame member may be of about approximately 12″ to 96″ and include one or any number of slots. Alternate sized and shaped side frame members may be used in any of the assemblies contemplated herein. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  7   a  and  7   b   , the modular frame assembly further includes a top planar member  780  having a first end  782  and a second end  784  opposite to the first end  782 . Top planar member  780  further includes an upper surface  786  and a lower surface  788 . The lower surface  788  of the top planar member  780  includes parallel chambers  790 ,  792  on the first and second end of the lower surface  788  coincident with the longitudinal axis of the top planar member  780 . Top planar member  780  can be used on any of the modular frame assemblies described herein in connection with  FIGS.  1 - 11    or any other modular frame assemblies described herein. 
     In use, to configure the frame members to assemble a table, desk, or any structure having a work surface, as illustrated in  FIGS.  7   a - 7   c   , the first lateral frame member  702  may be interlocked with the first side frame member  706  at a desired height by positioning the first end  710  of the first lateral frame member  702  such that the L-bend connectors  728   a - c  of the first end  710  of the first lateral frame member  702  are aligned with the desired slots of the plurality of slots  772   a - g  in the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706 . In one embodiment, as shown in  FIG.  7   a   , as desired by the user, the upper edge  724  of the transverse portion  718  of the first lateral frame member  702  is positioned to be at substantially the same height as the upper edge  794  of the cross panel  748  of the first side frame member  706 . To assemble the frame members with such positioning, the three L-bend connectors  728   a - c  are individually or simultaneously aligned with and inserted in direction  797  into the corresponding first, third and fifth slots  772   a ,  772   c , and  772   e  of the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706 , or in any corresponding unoccupied slots of slots  772   a - g  of the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706  directly aligned with the three L-bend connectors  728   a - c , until the extension portions  736  and locking tabs  738  of each of the L-bend connectors  728   a - c  pass through the thickness  760  of the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706  and the L-bend connectors  728   a - c  are then pressed downwardly simultaneously by a user pressing down the first end  710  of the first lateral frame member  702  in the direction of gravity as indicated by arrow  798 . This action causes the downwardly extending locking tabs  738  of L-bend connectors  728   a - c  to be mechanically captured by the outer surface  756  of the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706  directly beneath the slots  772   a ,  772   c , and  772   e  while engaging the extension portions  736  in the slots  772   a ,  772   c , and  772   e , thereby mechanically interlocking and releasably securing the first lateral frame member  702  with the first side frame member  706 . The thickness  760  of the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706  being greater than, e.g., 1.1 times greater than, the width of the L-bend connectors  728   a - c  enable a friction fit of the extension portions  736  and locking tabs  738 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  7   a  through  7   f   , the second lateral frame member  704  may then be interlocked with the first side frame member  706  at the same height as the first lateral frame member  702 . Such assemblage may be performed by positioning the second end  716  of the second lateral frame member  704  such that its two L-bend connectors  734   a - b  are aligned with the second and fourth slots  776   b  and  776   d  in the second end  744  of the first side frame member  706 . Once aligned, the two L-bend connectors  734   a - b  on the second end  716  of the second lateral frame member  704  can be individually or simultaneously inserted into the corresponding slots  776   b  and  776   d  in the second end  744  of the first side frame member  706 , or in any corresponding unoccupied slots of slots  776   a - g  of the second end  744  of the first side frame member  706  directly aligned with the two L-bend connectors  734   a - b , thereby mechanically interlocking and releasably securing the second lateral frame member  704  with the first side frame member  706  in the same manner described with respect to the first end  710  of the first lateral frame member  702  being secured with the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  7   a  through  7   f   , the second end  714  of the first lateral frame member  702  is then interlockingly secured with the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708  to enable the height of the upper edge  796  of the cross panel  750  of the second side frame member  708  to be maintained at the substantially same height as the upper edge  724  of the transverse portion  718  of the first lateral frame member  702 . Such assemblage may be performed by positioning the two L-bend connectors  732   a - b  of the second end  714  of the first lateral frame member  702  such that they are simultaneously aligned with the corresponding second and fourth slots  774   b  and  774   d  in the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708  and then individually or simultaneously inserted into the second and fourth slots  774   b  and  774   d  in the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708 , or in any corresponding unoccupied slots of slots  774   a - g  in the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708  directly aligned with the two L-bend connectors  732   a ,  732   b  of the second end  714  of the first lateral frame member  702 , thereby mechanically interlocking and releasably securing the second side frame member  708  with the first lateral frame member  702  in the same manner described with respect to the first end  710  of the first lateral frame member  702  being secured with the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706 . 
     Referring to  FIGS.  7   a  through  7   f   , the first end  712  of the second lateral frame member  704  may then be interlocked with the second end  746  of the second side frame member  708  to enable the height of the upper edge  796  of the cross panel  750  of the second side frame member  708  to be maintained at the substantially same height as the upper edge  726  of the transverse portion  720  of the second lateral frame member  704 . For such positioning, the three L-bend connectors  730   a - c  of the first end  712  of the second lateral frame member  704  are simultaneously aligned with the corresponding first, third and fifth slots  778   a ,  778   c , and  778   e  in the second end  746  of the second side frame member  708  and then individually or simultaneously inserted into the first, third, and fifth slots  778   a ,  778   c , and  778   e  in the second end  746  of the second side frame member  708 , or in any corresponding unoccupied slots of slots  778   a - g  in the second end  746  of the second side frame member  708  directly aligned with the three L-bend connectors  730   a - c  of the first end  712  of the second lateral frame member  704 , thereby mechanically interlocking and releasably securing the second side frame member  708  with the second lateral frame member  704  in the same manner described with respect to the first end  710  of the first lateral frame member  702  being secured with the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706 . It is contemplated that a user may assemble the interlocking frame members starting with either of the lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, or side frame members  706 ,  708 , respectively, as desired. 
     Referring to  FIGS.  7   a  through  7   f   , the top planar member  780  is then assembled by aligning the parallel chambers  790 ,  792  on the first and second end  782 ,  784 , respectively, of the lower surface  788  with the upper edges  724 ,  726  of the transverse portions  718 ,  720 , respectively, of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , such that the chambers,  790 ,  792 , having a width and position coincident with and approximately 1.1 times greater than the upper edges  724 ,  726 , receive the upper edges  724 ,  726  therein. By placing the top planar member  780  over the top of the transverse portions  718 ,  720 , the top planar member  780  is fixed in place longitudinally by the upper edges  794 ,  796 , respectively, of the cross panels  748 ,  750  of the first and second side frame members  706 ,  708  and laterally by the chambers  790 ,  792  positioned over and receiving the upper edges  724 ,  726  of the transverse portions  718 ,  720 , respectively, of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, so as to form the desk or table assembly such as shown in  FIGS.  7   d ,  7   e  and  7   f    As shown in  FIGS.  7   d ,  7   e  and  7   f   , in use, the top planar member  780  may serve as a writing surface or any support surface desired. The height of the desk surface may be variable and adjusted to be from approximately 12″ from the surface of a floor or support surface to approximately 50″ from the surface of a floor or support surface, with a typical height of a desk assembly for an adult being approximately 20″ to 40″. In the event the desk surface is utilized as a child&#39;s toy, the height of a desk assembly may be about approximately 1″ to 24″. 
     The first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  may be selectively adjustable to increase or decrease the height of the top planar member  780  to accommodate different sized desks for different sized users or as desired, as shown in  FIGS.  7   d  and  7   e   . If desired by a user, the height of the top planar member  782  may be adjusted by repositioning the three L-bend connectors  728   a - c  of the first end  710  of the first lateral frame member  702  into three corresponding slots of slots  772   a - g  that are disposed lower in the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706 . As illustrated in  FIG.  7   e   , a top planar member may be adjusted to a lower height of approximately 12″ for use by a toddler. This is performed by aligning the three L-bend connectors  728   a - c  of the first end  710  of the first lateral frame member  702  into the third, fifth and seventh slots  772   c ,  772   e , and  772   g , respectively, in the first end  740  of the first side frame member  706 . In another embodiment, the length of the first and second ends  710 ,  712 , and  714 ,  716 , respectively, of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  may be a shorter length of approximately 6″ to 12″ and have one or a plurality of L-bend connectors closer or further away from each other (not shown). 
     To assemble the desk for a toddler, the second end  716  of the second lateral frame member  704  is also repositioned such that the two L-bend connectors  734   a - b  of the second end  716  of the second lateral frame member  706  are aligned with and inserted into the fourth and sixth slots,  776   d  and  776   f  in the second end  744  of the first side frame member  706 . Then the two L-bend connectors  732   a - b  of the second end  714  of the first lateral frame member  702  are repositioned to align with inserted into the fourth and sixth slots  774   d  and  774   f  in the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708 . The three L-bend connectors  730   a - c  of the first end  712  of the second lateral frame member  704  are repositioned to align with and inserted into the third, fifth and seventh slots  778   c ,  778   e , and  778   g , respectively, in the second end  746  of the second side frame member  708 . The top planar member  780  is then fixed into position over the upper edges  724 ,  726  of the transverse portions  718 ,  720 , respectively, of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively. This readjustment and reconfiguration of the height of the top planar member  780  may be performed as many times as desired by a user. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  8   a   , in this same manner, another desk assembly  800  may be interlockingly secured to the desk assembly  700 , as illustrated in  FIG.  7   a   , with the addition of substantially identical lateral frame members, side frame members, and top planar members. The positioning of the lateral frame members is determined by the height at which a user desires to position the top planar member of the additional desk assemblies. The assembly of the additional desk assemblies may be configured on either or both sides of the first desk assembly, as shown in  FIGS.  8   a    through  8   i.    
     In use, as shown in  FIG.  8   a   , a user may desire for the top planar member of another interlockingly secured desk assembly  800  to be positioned at a lower height than the top planar member  780  of the first desk assembly  700 , or may desire for the top planar member  780  of the first desk assembly  700  to be lowered prior to the assembly of an adjacent desk assembly  800 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  8   a   , the second desk assembly  800  may have a top planar member  880  lower than the top planar member  780  of the first desk assembly  700  for use for a child or any other desired purpose. The second desk assembly  800  includes the substantially identical frame members as utilized to assemble the first desk assembly  700 . As illustrated in  FIG.  8   a   , a third and fourth lateral frame member  802 ,  804 , respectively, substantially identical to the lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , are positioned vertically and spaced apart from each other having a longitudinal axis defining a length. The third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804 , respectively, each include a first end  810 ,  812 , respectively, a second end  814 ,  816 , respectively, opposite to the first end  810 ,  812 , respectively, and a transverse portion  818 ,  819 , respectively, extending between the first end  810 ,  812 , respectively, and second end,  814 ,  816 , respectively. The first ends  810 ,  812 , respectively, and second ends  814 ,  816 , respectively, each include at least one flange portion  821 ,  822  on the first ends  810 ,  812  and  825 ,  827  on the second ends,  814 ,  816 , respectively, extending downward from a longitudinal axis of the first end  810 ,  812 , respectively, and second end  814 ,  816 , respectively, of third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804 , respectively. The transverse portion  818 ,  819 , respectively, includes an upper edge  824 ,  826 , respectively. 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   a   , the flange portions  821  and  822  each include a column of three downwardly extending L-bend connectors  828   a - c ,  830   a - c  of the first ends  810 ,  812  of the first and second lateral frame members  802 ,  804 , respectively. The flange portions  825  and  827  each include a column of two downwardly extending L-bend connectors  832   a - b ,  834   a - b  of the second ends  814 ,  816  of the first and second lateral frame members  802 ,  804 , respectively. It is contemplated that any number or configuration of L-bend connectors can be provided to the first or second ends  810 ,  812 , or  814 ,  816  of the first or second lateral frame members  802 ,  804 , respectively. Referring to  FIG.  8   a   , the L-bend connectors  828   a - c ,  830   a - c ,  832   a - b , and  834   a - b  each include an extension portion  836  and corresponding perpendicular locking tabs  838  identical to those illustrated in  FIG.  7   a   , with respect to frame assembly  700 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  8   a   , the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804  are substantially identical to each other and to the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  of assembly  700 . In the frame assembly  800 , the placement and relative positioning of the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804  will be determined by the desired height of the top planar member  880  relative to, and in conjunction with, the height of the top planar member  780  of the frame assembly  700 . The third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804  may be positioned in a substantially identical orientation to the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , and at any height such first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  may be positioned, or they may be flipped over about their central lateral axis whereupon the first ends  810 ,  812  of the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804  are in the substantially same orientation as the second ends  714 ,  716  in the frame assembly  700 , as shown in  FIG.  7   a   , and the second ends  814 ,  816  are in the substantially same orientation as the first ends  710 ,  712  in the frame assembly  700 , as shown in  FIG.  7   a   . In the event the desired height of the top planar member  880  is at a different height than the top planar member  780  then depending on the precise lowered height desired, the orientation of the third and fourth lateral members may be substantially similar to the first and second lateral frame members shown in  FIG.  7   a   , or they may be reversed, as shown in  FIG.  8     a.    
     As shown in  FIG.  8   b   , in the event the height of the top planar member  880  is desired to be substantially equivalent to the top planar member  780 , the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804  are positioned in the same orientation as the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, as shown in  FIG.  7   a   . This positioning enables L-bend connectors  828   a - c ,  834   a - b  of the lateral frame members  802 ,  804 , respectively, to be aligned and inserted into corresponding unoccupied slots  774   a ,  774   c ,  774   e  from among slots  774   a - g  and slots  778   b ,  778   d , of the first end  742  and second  746  of second side frame member  708 , respectively, that are not occupied by the L-bend connectors  732   a - b  and  730   a - c  of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, so as to form an adjacent desk assembly  800  having a top planar member  880  with a height substantially similar to the top planar member  780 , as illustrated in  FIG.  8     e.    
     In another embodiment, in the event the desired height of the top planar member  880  is lower than the top planar member  780 , as shown in  FIG.  7   a   , by a distance greater than the distance between two receiving members such as  774   a  and  774   b  on the second side frame member  708 , then the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804  may also remain positioned in the same orientation as the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, as shown in  FIG.  7   a   . This positioning enables L-bend connectors  828   a - c ,  834   a - b  of the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804 , respectively, to be aligned and inserted into corresponding unoccupied slots  774   c ,  774   e , and  774   g  from among slots  774   a - g  and slots  776   d , and  776   f , of the first end  742  and second  746  of second side frame member  708 , respectively, that are not occupied by the L-bend connectors  732   a - b  and  730   a - c  of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, so as to form an adjacent desk assembly having a top planar member  880  having a height lower than the height of the top planar member  780  of desk assembly  700  (not shown). 
     As shown in  FIG.  8   a   , in the event a user desires the height of the top planar member  880  to be lowered a distance substantially equivalent to the distance between two receiving members such as  774   a  and  774   b  on the second side frame member  708 , then the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804  are positioned such that the orientation of the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804  are in a reversed position to the orientation of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, as shown in  FIG.  7   a   . This positioning enables L-bend connectors  832   a - b ,  830   a - c  of the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804 , respectively, to be aligned and inserted into corresponding unoccupied slots  774   c ,  774   e  from among slots  774   a - g  and slots  778   b ,  778   d , and  778   f , of the first end  742  and second  746  of second side frame member  708 , respectively, that are not occupied by the L-bend connectors  732   a - b  and  730   a - c  of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, so as to form an adjacent desk assembly having a top planar member  880  having a height lower than the height of the top planar member  780  of desk assembly  700 . 
     As shown in  FIG.  8   a   , the modular frame assembly  800  further includes a third side frame member  808  including first end  842 , second end  846  opposite to the first end  842 , and a cross panel  850  extending therebetween. The cross panel  850  includes an upper edge  896 . The third side frame member  808  is parallel and substantially identical to the second side frame member  708 . The third side frame member  808  further includes an inner surface  854 , an outer surface  858 , and a thickness  862  substantially equivalent to the thickness  762  of the second side frame member  708 . In an alternative embodiment, the thickness  862  of the third side frame member  808  is different than the thickness  762  of the second side frame member  708 . 
     The first and second ends  842 ,  846  of the third side frame member  808  are substantially identical the first and second ends  742 ,  746  of the second side frame member  708 , including longitudinal columns  866 ,  870 , respectively, defining one or a plurality of receiving members, or slots  874   a - g ,  878   a - g . It is contemplated that receiving members, or slots, in the first and second ends  742 ,  746  of the third side frame member  808  may be configured in an arrangement such that the receiving members are aligned in one or more columns or offset from each other, parallel or skewed, in close or distant proximity, equal or different distance apart, or symmetrical or asymmetrical from each other. It is also contemplated that the number or configuration of receiving members in a first end of a side member may be the same or different than in the second end of a side member, the number or configuration of receiving members in one side frame member may be different than in another side frame member, and the height of the side members may be the same or different than each other. Referring to  FIG.  8   a   , the columns  864 ,  866 , of the third side frame member  808  each includes seven slots  874   a - g  and  878   a - g , respectively, however any number of slots in any shape, height, width or configuration, can be provided. 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   a   , the modular frame assembly  800  further includes a top planar member  880  having a first end  882  and a second end  884  opposite to the first end  882 . Top planar member  880  further includes an upper surface  886  and a lower surface  888 . The lower surface  888  of the top planar member  880  includes parallel chambers  890 ,  892  on the first and second end of the lower surface  888  coincident with the longitudinal axis of the top planar member  880  (not shown), substantially similar to that shown in  FIG.  7   b   . In use, a modular frame assembly  800  is configured in a substantially similar manner as the modular frame assembly  700  is configured in  FIG.  7   a   , with the exception of the determination of whether the position of the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804 , respectively will be assembled in a reverse manner. As illustrated in  FIG.  8   a   , the two L-bend connectors  832   a - b  of the second end  814  of the third lateral frame member  802  are simultaneously aligned with the corresponding third and fifth slots  774   c ,  774   e  of the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708 . The first end  742  of the second side frame member  708  has second and fourth slots  774   b  and  774   d  filled with the L-bend connectors  732   b  and  732   d  of the second end of the first lateral frame member. Accordingly, the third and fifth slots  774   c ,  774   e , respectively, of the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708  are empty or unoccupied (“unoccupied”) and available and aligned to receive the L-bend connectors  832   a - b  of the second end  814  of the third lateral frame member. The L-bend connectors  832   a - b  are inserted in direction  897  into the corresponding third and fifth slots  774   c ,  774   e  from the outer surface  758  of the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708 , or in any corresponding unoccupied slots among the slots  774   a - g  of the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708  directly aligned with the two L-bend connectors  832   a - b , until the extension portions  836  and locking tabs  838  of each of the L-bend connectors  832   a - b  pass through the thickness  762  of the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708  and the L-bend connectors  832   a - b  are then pressed downwardly simultaneously by a user pressing down the second end  814  of the third lateral frame member  802  in the direction of gravity as indicated by arrow  898 . This action causes the downwardly extending locking tabs  838  of L-bend connectors  832   a - b  to be mechanically captured by the inner surface  754  of the first end  742  of the second side frame member  708  directly beneath the slots  774   c ,  774   e  while engaging the extension portions  836  in the slots  774   c  and  774   e , thereby mechanically interlocking and releasably securing the third lateral frame member  802  with the second side frame member  708 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   a   , the fourth lateral frame member  804  may then be interlocked with the second side frame member  708  at the same height as the third lateral frame member  802 . Such assemblage may be performed by positioning the first end  812  of the fourth lateral frame member  804  such that its three L-bend connectors  830   a - c  are aligned with the second, fourth and sixth slots  778   b ,  778   d , and  778   f  in the second end  746  of the second side frame member  708 . Once aligned, the three L-bend connectors  830   a - c  on the first end  812  of the fourth lateral frame member  804  can be simultaneously inserted into the corresponding slots  778   b ,  778   d , and  778   f  in the second end  746  of the second side frame member  708 , or in any corresponding unoccupied slots among slots  778   a - g  of the second end  746  of the second side frame member  708  directly aligned with the three L-bend connectors  830   a - c , thereby mechanically interlocking and releasably securing the fourth lateral frame member  804  with the second side frame member  708 . 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  8   a   , similarly, the three L-bend connectors  828   a - c  of the first end  810  of the third lateral frame member  802  are simultaneously aligned with and inserted in direction  899  into the corresponding second, fourth, and sixth slots  874   b ,  874   d , and  874   f , respectively, of the third side frame member  808  from the inner surface  854  of the third side frame member  808 , or in any corresponding unoccupied slots among the slots  874   a - g  of the first end  842  of the third side frame member  808  directly aligned with the three L-bend connectors  828   a - c , until the extension portions  836  and locking tabs  838  of each of the L-bend connectors  828   a - c  pass through the thickness  862  of the first end  842  of the third side frame member  808  and the L-bend connectors  828   a - c  are then pressed downwardly simultaneously by a user pressing down the first end  842  of the third side frame member  808  in the direction of gravity as indicated by arrow  898 . This action causes the downwardly extending locking tabs  838  of L-bend connectors  828   a - c  to be mechanically captured by the inner surface  854  of the first end  842  of the third side frame member  808  directly beneath the slots  874   b ,  874   d , and  874   f  while engaging the extension portions  836  in the slots  874   b ,  874   d , and  874   f , thereby mechanically interlocking and releasably securing the third lateral frame member  802  with the third side frame member  808 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   a   , the second end  816  of the fourth lateral frame member  804  is then interlockingly secured with the second end  846  of the third side frame member  808 . Such assemblage may be performed by positioning the two L-bend connectors  834   a - b  of the second end  816  of the fourth lateral frame member  804  such that they are simultaneously aligned with the corresponding third and fifth slots  878   c  and  878   e  in the second end  846  of the third side frame member  808  and then simultaneously inserted into the third and fifth slots  878   c  and  878   e  in the second end  846  of the third side frame member  808 , or in any corresponding unoccupied slots among slots  878   a - g  in the second end  846  of the third side frame member  808  directly aligned with the two L-bend connectors  834   a - b  of the second end  816  of the fourth lateral frame member  804 , thereby mechanically interlocking and releasably securing the third side frame member  808  with the fourth lateral frame member  804 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  8   a   , the top planar member  880  is then assembled onto the upper edges  824 ,  826  of the third and fourth lateral frame members  802 ,  804  in the same manner as the top planar member  780  was assembled onto the upper edges  724 ,  726  of the first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , thereby fixing the top planar member  880  in place. With the addition of another desk assembly adjacent to desk assembly  800 , a row of desk assemblies may be configured as shown in  FIG.  8   c   . As shown in  FIGS.  8   c  and  8   d   , in use, the top planar member  880  may serve as a writing surface or any support surface desired. 
     As shown in  FIGS.  8   a  through  8   e   , this pattern of assembling modular frame assemblies may be repeated to permit any number of desk assemblies to be aligned in a row. Additional desk assemblies may also be configured to enable a perpendicular row of desk assemblies to be constructed, as shown in  FIGS.  8   h  and  8   i   . As shown in  FIGS.  8   f  through  8   i   , a perpendicular row of desk assemblies may be configured with the use of a corner assembly  840 . 
     As shown in  FIGS.  8   f  through  8   i   , corner assembly  840  is assembled using a substantially similar pair of first and second lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , and a top planar member  780 , as described in the construction of modular frame assembly  700  in  FIG.  7   a    and first and second corner side frame members  843 ,  844 . The first and second corner side frame members  843 ,  844  each include first ends  848 ,  852  and second ends  868 ,  872 . The first and second ends  848 ,  852  and  868 ,  872 , respectively, include a plurality of receiving members  772   a - g ,  774   a - g ,  776   a - g , and  778   a - g , as described with respect to the first and second ends  740 ,  744  and  742 ,  746  of the first and second side frame members  706 ,  708  in  FIG.  7     a.    
     The first and second ends  848 ,  852  and  868 ,  872 , respectively, also include one or a plurality of L-bend connectors. As shown in  FIG.  8   f   , the first ends,  848 ,  852  include four L-bend connectors  849   a - d ,  853   a - d , and the second ends,  868 ,  872  include three L-bend connectors  869   a - c , and  873   a - c , respectively. 
     In use, as shown in  FIG.  8   f   , a corner assembly  840  may be utilized when a user desires to configure desk assemblies adjacent to either of the first and/or second lateral frame members  702 ,  704  and/or adjacent to either the first and/or second corner side frame member  843 ,  844 , as shown in  FIG.  8   h   . A corner assembly  840  is configured in a substantially similar manner as the modular frame assembly  700  was configured in  FIG.  7   a   . As shown in  FIGS.  8   f  and  8   h   , the unoccupied receiving members  772   a - g ,  774   a - g ,  776   a - g , and  778   a - g  of the first and second ends  848 ,  852  and  868 ,  872 , respectively are available to receive L-bend connectors of additional lateral frame members  702 ,  704 , respectively, of additional desk assemblies extending down the longitudinal axis of the top planar member  780 . It is contemplated that a first and second end can be flipped over about a central lateral axis whereupon the first end  848  is in the position of the second end  868 , and the second end  868  is in the position of the first end  848 , as shown in  FIG.  8   f   . Similarly, to assemble additional desk assemblies in a perpendicular orientation, the unoccupied L-bend connectors  849   a - d ,  853   a - d  on the first ends  848 ,  852  and the unoccupied L-bend connectors  869   a - c  and  873   a - c  on the second ends  868 ,  872 , respectively, are available to be aligned with and inserted into receiving members  774   a - g ,  778   a - g  of additional adjacent side frame members  708  of additional desk assemblies extending down the lateral axis of the top planar member  780 , thereby assembling the perpendicular desk assemblies as shown in  FIG.  8     i.    
     It is contemplated that other modular frame assemblies may be constructed from or in combination with the assemblies  700  or  800 , as illustrated in  FIGS.  7   a - 7   f  and  8   a - 8   i   , such that a user can optionally use the frame members of  FIGS.  7   a - g  and  8   a - i   , to provide a user with numerous and varied options for assembling the frame member to a desired function. 
     Referring to  FIG.  9   a   , a modular interlocking shelf frame assembly  900  is illustrated. The shelf frame assembly  900  includes a desk assembly  700 , as shown in  FIG.  7   a   . As shown in  FIG.  9   a   , the first and second side frame members  706 ,  708  of the desk assembly illustrated in  FIG.  7   a    are modified to form first and second side frame members  970 ,  972  each of which includes one or more receiving members, or dual-end slots,  974   a - b ,  976   a - b , respectively, on the cross panels  978 ,  980 , respectively. 
     The shelf frame assembly  900  further includes a pair of first and second lateral frame members of the desk assembly illustrated in  FIG.  7   a    modified in length to form a pair of first and second lateral shelf frame members  902 ,  904 , and  906 ,  908 , respectively. The shelf frame assembly  900  further includes first and second side shelf frame members  910 ,  912 , respectively. Shelf frame assembly  900  further includes additional top planar members forming a first and second top shelf planar member  914 ,  916 . The first and second lateral shelf frame members  902 ,  904 ,  906 ,  908 , respectively, first and second side shelf frame members  910 ,  912 , and first and second top shelf planar members  914 ,  916  form a shelf assembly above an upper surface  786  of the top planar member  780  of desk assembly  700  as illustrated in  FIG.  7     a.    
     The first and second lateral shelf frame members  902 ,  904  and  906 ,  908  each include a first end  922 ,  924 ,  926 ,  928 , respectively, and a second end  930 ,  932 ,  934 ,  936 , respectively, opposite to the first end  922 ,  924 ,  926 ,  928 , respectively. The first ends  922 ,  924 ,  926 ,  928 , respectively, and second ends  930 ,  932 ,  934 ,  936 , respectively, each have at least one or more L-bend connectors  938 , the L-bend connector  938  having the same members and performing in the same manner as shown with respect to L-bend connector  728  in  FIG.  7   c   . L-bend connectors  938  in  FIG.  9   , or L-bend connectors  728  in  FIG.  7   c   , can be used on any of the modular frame assemblies described herein in connection with  FIGS.  1 - 11    or any other modular frame assemblies described herein. 
     The first and second side shelf frame members  910 ,  912  include a first end  940 ,  942  and second end  944 ,  946  opposite to the first end  940 ,  942 , and a bottom surface  948 ,  950 . The first ends  940 ,  942  and second ends  944 ,  946  of the side shelf frame members  910 ,  912  each having a plurality of receiving members  952   a - e ,  954   a - e , and  956   a - e ,  958   a - e  configured along the longitudinal axis of the side shelf frame members  910 ,  912 . In alternative embodiments, the side shelf frame members  910 ,  912  may have one or a plurality of receiving members configured in an arrangement such that the receiving members are aligned in one or more columns or offset from each other, parallel or skewed, in close or distant proximity, equal or different distance apart, or symmetrical or asymmetrical from each other. First and second side shelf frame members  910 ,  912  can be used on any of the modular frame assemblies described herein in connection with  FIGS.  1 - 11    or any other modular frame assemblies described herein. 
     Referring to  FIG.  9   a   , the receiving members  952   a - e ,  954   a - e , and  956   a - e ,  958   a - e  are configured to receive the L-bend connectors  938  of the first end  922 ,  924 ,  926 ,  928 , respectively, and a second end  930 ,  932 ,  934 ,  936 , respectively, of the first and second lateral shelf frame members  902 ,  904  and  906 ,  908 , respectively. In an alternative embodiment, the first ends  940 ,  942  and second ends  944 ,  946  of the side shelf frame members  910 ,  912  may have a single set of columns configured to receive the L-bend connectors  938  of the first and second lateral shelf frame members  902 ,  904  and  906 ,  908 . Referring to  FIG.  9   a   , the bottom surfaces  948 ,  950  of the side shelf frame members  910 ,  912  have a flange portion  962 ,  964 . The flange portion  962 ,  964  includes a dual-end connector  966 ,  968 . The dual-end connectors  966 ,  968  can be received by the dual-end slots,  974   a  or  974   b , and  976   a  or  976   b , respectively, on the cross panels  978 ,  980 , respectively. In an alternative embodiment, there may be one or a plurality of flange portions on the bottom surface  948 ,  950  of the side shelf frame members  910 ,  912 , having any shape, configuration or orientation. In one embodiment, the flange portion may be an L-bend connector  938 . It is contemplated that dual-end connectors can be used in the same manner as any L-bend connectors on any of the modular frame assemblies described herein in connection with  FIGS.  1 - 11    or any other modular frame assemblies described herein. 
     In use, to configure the shelf frame assembly  900 , as shown in  FIG.  9   a   , the dual-end connectors  966 ,  968  on the bottom surface  948 ,  950 , respectively, of the first and second side shelf frame members  910 ,  912  are aligned adjacent to and received by the receiving member  974   b ,  976   b , respectively, on the cross panel  978 ,  980 , respectively, of the first and second side frame members  970 ,  972 , by sliding the dual-end connectors  966 ,  968  into the friction fit dual-end slot  974   b ,  976   b  on the cross panels  978 ,  980 . In another embodiment, the flange portion may include a plurality of dual-end connectors, which slide individually or simultaneously into similarly shaped receiving members, or dual-end slots,  974   a - b ,  976   a - b , respectively, on the cross panel of the first and second side frame members  970 ,  972 . In an alternative embodiment, the first and second shelf side frame members  910 ,  912  may be formed integral with the side frame members  970 ,  972 , respectively. 
     The shelf lateral frame members  902 ,  904 ,  906 ,  908  are vertically oriented and positioned in between the first and second shelf side frame members  910 ,  912 . The shelf lateral frame members  902 ,  904 ,  906 ,  908  each have an upper edge  903 ,  905 ,  907 ,  909 , respectively. The shelf assembly is performed by aligning the L-bend connector  938  of the first end  922  of the first shelf lateral frame member with one of the receiving members  956   a - e  of the side shelf frame member  910 . A user may determine the desired receiving member  956   a - e  into which the L-bend connector  938  is aligned and inserted by determining the height at which it desires a first shelf to be positioned. A user will determine the height from a choice of selective locations or receiving members  956   a - e  on the side shelf frame member  910 . Additionally, a user may determine to position one or a plurality of shelves on the side shelf frame member  910 . 
     In use, as illustrated in  FIG.  9   a   , in one embodiment, although any number of alternatives may be considered in any desired sequence, a user may align and insert the L-bend connector  938  of the first end  922  of the first shelf lateral frame member  902  with receiving member  956   a  of the side shelf frame member  910 . The L-bend connector  938  of the second end  930  of the first shelf lateral frame member  902  is then aligned with and inserted into receiving member  958   a  of the side shelf frame member  912 . The L-bend connector  938  of the first end  924  of the second shelf lateral frame member  904  is then aligned with and inserted into receiving member  952   a  of the side shelf lateral frame member  910 . The L-bend connector  938  of the second end  932  of the second shelf lateral frame member  904  is then aligned with and inserted into receiving member  954   a  of the side shelf lateral frame member  912 . The L-bend connector  938  of the first end  926  of the third lateral frame member  906  is then aligned with and inserted into any of the unoccupied receiving member of the slots  956   b - e . In one embodiment, the L-bend connector  938  of the first end  926  of the third lateral frame member  906  is aligned with and inserted into receiving member  956   d  of the side shelf lateral frame member  910 . The L-bend connector  938  of the second end  934  of the third lateral frame member  906  is then aligned with and inserted into receiving member  958   d  of the side shelf lateral frame member  912 . The L-bend connector  938  of the first end  928  of the fourth lateral frame member  908  is then aligned with and inserted into receiving member  952   d  of the side shelf lateral frame member  910 . The L-bend connector  938  of the second end  936  of the fourth lateral frame member  908  is then aligned with and inserted into receiving member  954   d  of the side shelf lateral frame member  912 . 
     In use, as illustrated in  FIG.  9   a   , shelf top planar members  914 ,  916  are then longitudinally positioned on the top of the pair of shelf lateral frame members  902 ,  904 , and  906 ,  908 , respectively, and in between the first and second shelf side frame members  910 ,  912 . The shelf top planar members  914 ,  916  each have a first end  981 ,  983  and a second end  985 ,  987  opposite to the first end  981 ,  983 , and an upper surface  982 ,  984 , respectively, and a lower surface  986 ,  988 , respectively. As shown in  FIG.  7   a    with respect to the top planar member  780 , the lower surfaces  986 ,  988  of the shelf top planar members  914 ,  916  include parallel chambers  990 ,  992 , and  994 ,  996 , respectively, on first and second ends  981 ,  983 ,  985 ,  987 , respectively, of the lower surfaces  986 ,  988 , coincident with the longitudinal axis of the shelf top planar members  914 ,  916 . In an alternative embodiment, any number of channels may be provided. 
     Referring to  FIG.  9   a   , the chambers  990 ,  992 , and  994 ,  996  each have a width and position coincident with upper edges  903 ,  905 ,  907 ,  909  of the shelf lateral frame members  902 ,  904 ,  906 ,  908 , respectively, to receive the upper edges  903 ,  905 ,  907 ,  909 , respectively, within the chambers  990 ,  992 , and  994 ,  996 , respectively. By placing the shelf top planar members  914 ,  916  over the top of the upper edges  903 ,  905 ,  907 ,  909 , respectively, the shelf top planar members  914 ,  916  are fixed in place longitudinally by the first and second shelf side frame members  910 ,  912  and laterally by the chambers  990 ,  992 ,  994 ,  996 , respectively, positioned over the upper edges  903 ,  905 ,  907 ,  909  of the shelf lateral frame members  902 ,  904 ,  906 ,  908 , respectively. The shelf top planar members  914 ,  916  serve as a shelf surface so as to form the shelf frame assembly such as shown in  FIG.  9     b.    
     It is contemplated that other modular frame assemblies may be constructed from or in combination with the desk assemblies  700  or  800 , as illustrated in  FIGS.  7   a - g  and  8   a - i   , and the shelf assembly  900 , as illustrated in  FIG.  9   a    such that a user can optionally use the lateral frame members, side frame members and top planar member illustrated in  FIGS.  1 - 9    to form a modular chair assembly  1000 , as illustrated in  FIGS.  10   a    through  10   c.    
     Referring to  FIG.  10   a   , modular chair assembly  1000  includes first and second lateral shelf frame members  902 ,  904 ,  906 ,  908 , respectively, as well as an additional pair of first and second lateral shelf frame member  902 ′ and  904 ′. The modular chair assembly  1000  further includes shelf side frame members  910 ,  912  of  FIG.  9    modified to be formed integral with side frame members  970 ,  972 , respectively, to form first and second side chair frame members  1002 ,  1004 . In an alternative embodiment, the first and second side chair frame members  1002 ,  1004  may be configured from the shelf side frame members  910 ,  912  assembled with the first and second side frame members  970 ,  972 , or first and second side frame members  706 ,  708 , as desired by a user. The modular chair assembly  1000  further includes a top planar member  1080  modified from the top planar member  780 , as shown in  FIG.  7   a   , to include a rectangular projection  1026 ,  1028  on edges  1027 ,  1029  extending between the first end  782  and second end  784 . It is understood that the projections  1026 ,  1028  may be of any shape or size. 
     In an alternative embodiment, as shown in  FIG.  10   d   , the first and second side chair frame members  1002 ,  1004 , may be modified to include an additional brace member  1081  to form a supporting arm member with the chair assembly  1000 . The additional brace member  1081  includes an L-shaped support member  1082  having a horizontal extension  1084  and a vertical extension  1086 . The horizontal extension  1084  has a first side  1088  and second side  1090  opposite to the first side  1088 . The vertical extension  1086  has a first side  1092  and a second side  1094  opposite to the first side  1092 . The brace member  1081  is formed integral with the side frame member  1002  whereby the second side  1090  of the horizontal extension  1084  is integral with a second end  1010  of side chair frame member  1002  at a height approximate to the height of the receiving member  1018   c  of the second end  1010 , and the second side  1094  is formed integral with a top edge  1096  of the first end  1006  of side chair frame member  1002 . The first side  1088  of the horizontal extension  1084  and the first side  1092  of the vertical extension  1086  being formed in a perpendicular manner to form a corner  1098 . In an alternative embodiment, the brace member  1081  is added as an additional member to the chair assembly  1000 , as shown in  FIG.  10     a.    
     Referring to  FIG.  10   a   , first and second side chair frame members  1002 ,  1004 , respectively, include a first end  1006 ,  1008 , respectively, and a second end  1010 ,  1012 , respectively, opposite to the first end  1010 ,  1012 , respectively. The first ends  1006 ,  1008 , respectively, and second ends  1010 ,  1012 , respectively, each include at least one receiving member  1014 ,  1016  on the first ends  1006 ,  1008  and a plurality of receiving members  1018   a - e ,  1020   a - e  on the second ends,  1010 ,  1012 . It is contemplated that any number or configuration of receiving members can be provided on the first and/or section ends  1006 ,  1008 ,  1010 ,  1012 , respectively, of the first and/or second side chair frame members  1002 ,  1004 , respectively. Referring to  FIG.  10   a   , first and second side chair frame members  1002 ,  1004  further include a longitudinal portion  1013 ,  1015  extending between the first ends  1006 ,  1008  and second ends  1010 ,  1012 , respectively. The longitudinal portions  1013 ,  1015  include a chamber, or groove  1023 ,  1024 , disposed on the inner surface  1017 ,  1019  of the longitudinal portions  1013 ,  1015 , respectively. The chamber or groove may be rectangularly shaped, as shown in  FIG.  10   a   . It is understood that the chamber or groove  1023 ,  1024  may be of any shape or size. 
     Still further, it is contemplated that a user may optionally use a modified receiving member in any modular frame assemblies constructed from or in combination with the assemblies illustrated in  FIGS.  1 - 11    herein or in any other assemblies described herein. As illustrated in  FIG.  10   b   , a modified receiving member  1040  includes a T-shape receiving space having a first end  1050 , a second end  1052  opposite to the first end  1050  and a bridge portion  1054  extending between the first and second ends  1050 ,  1052 . The bridge portion  1054  extends downward in a perpendicular axis to the longitudinal axis of the receiving member  1040 . A first and second curvature  1056  and  1058  are curved inward between the first end  1050  and the bridge portion  1054 , and the second end  1052  and the bridge portion  1054 , respectively, so as to facilitate the rotation of an L-bend connector in the receiving member  1040 . Receiving member  1040  includes a thickness  1060 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  10   a   , the lateral shelf frame members  902 ,  904 ,  906 ,  908  include a transverse portion  903 ,  905 ,  907 ,  909 , respectively, and one or a plurality of flange portion(s). As shown in  FIG.  10   a   , the lateral shelf frame members  902 ,  904 ,  906 ,  908  further include a first end  922 ,  924 ,  926 ,  928 , respectively, and a second end  930 ,  932 ,  934 ,  936 , respectively, opposite to the first end  922 ,  924 ,  926 ,  928 , respectively. The flange portions include L-bend connectors  938 . Such L-bend connectors  938  extending transversely from first ends  922 ,  924 ,  926 ,  928 , respectively, and second ends  930 ,  932 ,  934 ,  936 , respectively, of the lateral shelf frame members  902 ,  904 ,  906 ,  908 . The lateral shelf frame members  902 ′,  904 ′ each include a first end  922 ′,  924 ′, respectively, and a second end  930 ′,  932 ′, respectively, opposite to the first end  922 ′,  924 ′, respectively. The first ends  922 ′,  924 ′, respectively, and second ends  930 ′,  932 ′, respectively, each have an L-bend connector  938  extending transversely therefrom. 
     As illustrated in  FIG.  10   b   , in use, an L-bend connector  938  of first lateral shelf frame member  902  at position  1070  is rotated approximately 90 degrees about the longitudinal axis of a first lateral shelf frame member  902  to which the L-bend connector  938  is extending, to position  1072 , to insert an extension portion  736  and locking tab  738  of L-bend connector  938  into and through the first and second ends  1050 ,  1052  of the receiving member  1040  with a friction fit until the locking tab  738  passes through the thickness  1060  and protrudes through the receiving member  1040  at position  1074 . The L-bend connector  938  is then rotated back 90 degrees upward about the longitudinal axis of the lateral frame member  902 . These actions cause the downwardly extending locking tab  738  of L-bend connectors  938  to be mechanically captured and locked by the bridge portion  1054  between the first and second ends  1050 ,  1052 , respectively, while engaging the extension portion  736  in the bridge portion  1054 . A forward edge  1078  of the lateral frame member  902  thus becomes releasably and securely mechanically interlocked with the receiving member  1040 . The L-bend connector  938  may be released from the receiving member by similar rotation of the L-bend connector  938 . In an alternative embodiment, the receiving member may be oriented 180 degrees on the first and/or second side chair frame members  1002 ,  1004 , respectively, thereby being maintained in a position such that the bridge portion  1054  remains upward upon the locking of the L-bend connector  938  in the receiving member  1040 . T-shaped receiving members  1040 , as shown in  FIG.  10   b   , can be used on any of the modular frame assemblies described herein in connection with  FIGS.  1 - 11    or any other modular frame assemblies described herein. 
     In use in one embodiment, although any number of alternatives may be considered in any desired sequence, a user may form a modular chair assembly by aligning and inserting the L-bend connector  938  of the first end  922  of the first shelf lateral frame member  902  into the receiving member  1018   a  of the second end  1010  of side chair frame member  1002 . The L-bend connector  938  of the first end  924  of the second shelf lateral frame member  904  is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1018   b  of the second end  1010  of side chair frame member  1002 . The L-bend connector  938  of the first end  926  of the third shelf lateral frame member  906  is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1018   c  of the second end  1010  of side chair frame member  1002 . The L-bend connector  938  of the first end  928  of the fourth shelf lateral frame member  908  is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1018   d  of the second end  1010  of side chair frame member  1002 . The L-bend connector  938  of the first end  922 ′ of the first shelf lateral frame member  902 ′ is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1018   e  of the second end  1010  of side chair frame member  1002 . The L-bend connector  938  of the first end  924 ′ of the second shelf lateral frame member  904 ′ is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1014  of the first end  1006  of side chair frame member  1002 . 
     In use, although any number of alternatives may be considered in any desired sequence, the L-bend connector  938  of the second end  930  of the first shelf lateral frame member  902  is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1020   a  of the second end  1012  of side chair frame member  1004 . The L-bend connector  938  of the second end  932  of the second shelf lateral frame member  904  is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1020   b  of the second end  1012  of side chair frame member  1004 . The L-bend connector  938  of the second end  934  of the third shelf lateral frame member  906  is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1020   c  of the second end  1012  of side chair frame member  1004 . The L-bend connector  938  of the second end  936  of the fourth shelf lateral frame member  908  is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1020   d  of the second end  1012  of side chair frame member  1004 . The L-bend connector  938  of the second end  930 ′ of the first shelf lateral frame member  902 ′ is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1020   e  of the second end  1012  of side chair frame member  1004 . The L-bend connector  938  of the second end  932 ′ of the second shelf lateral frame member  904 ′ is then aligned and inserted into the receiving member  1016  of the first end  1008  of side chair frame member  1004 . 
     Referring to  FIG.  10   a   , the top planar member  1080  is then positioned and fixed over the top of the upper edge  909  of the top of shelf lateral frame member  908 , and upper edge  905 ′ of the top of shelf lateral frame member  904 ′. The projections  1026 ,  1028  on edges  1027 ,  1029  are aligned and inserted into the grooves  1023  (not shown),  1024  on the inner surface  1017 ,  1019  of the longitudinal portions  1013 ,  1015 , respectively. The top planar member  1080  remains fixed in place longitudinally by the first and second chair side frame members  1002 ,  1004  and laterally by the insertion of the projections  1026 ,  1028  into the grooves  1023 ,  1024  on the lower surface of the top planar member  1080 , so as to form the chair frame assembly such as shown in  FIG.  10   c   . The top planar member  1080  functions as a seat portion of the chair assembly  1000 . 
     In another embodiment, a user may desire another work surface adjacent to a desk or table, as shown in  FIGS.  7  through  10   . An additional work surface may be configured by assembling an additional desk assembly, as shown in  FIGS.  7  through  10   . In addition, such work surface may also be configured with the use of a pair of outrigger members, as illustrated in  FIG.  11   a   . Outrigger members  1100  include an L-bend body  1102  having an elongated support portion  1104  having a first end  1106  and a second end  1108  opposite to the first end  1106 . The second end  1108  of the support portion  1104  having a perpendicular flange portion  1110  extending downward therefrom. The first end  1106  includes a projection  1112  extending perpendicularly upward from the longitudinal axis of the first end  1106 . The flange portion  1110  has one or a plurality of L-bend connectors  938  extending therefrom. 
     In use, as shown in  FIG.  11   b   , one or a plurality of L-bend connectors  938  on a first and second outrigger member  1100  is aligned with and inserted into one or more unoccupied slots on an outer surface of a first or second end of a first or second side frame member. A second L-bend connector  938  of a second outrigger member  1120  is aligned with and interlocked with one or more unoccupied slots at the same height, as the first outrigger member  1100 , as shown in  FIG.  11   b   . A user may determine the desired height of the outrigger members  1100 ,  1120 . As illustrated in  FIG.  11   b   , the first and second outrigger,  1100 ,  1120 , respectively, are interlocked with the fourth and sixth slots in the first or second ends of the first and/or second side frame member. As shown in  FIGS.  11   b  and  11   c   , a top panel frame member  1080  is placed on the support member or portion  1104  of each of the first and second outrigger members  1100 ,  1120 , respectively. The top panel frame member  1080  is fixed on the first and second outrigger members  1100 ,  1120 , respectively, longitudinally by being fixed between the projection  1112  and the first or second end of the first or second side frame members, and laterally by the chambers  990 ,  992  on the lower surface (not shown) of the top planar member  1080  positioned over the upper edges of the first and second outrigger members  1100 ,  1120 , respectively, so as to form an additional surface adjacent to a desk or table assembly  700 , as shown in  FIGS.  11   b  and  11   c   . The top panel frame member provides a user with an additional surface on which to work. Additional outriggers may be added to the opposite side of the desk or table assembly  700 , as shown in  FIGS.  11   b  and  11   c   , at any height desired by a user, to receive additional top planar members. In another embodiment, outriggers may be added at any height to any side frame member or corner assembly as desired. Outrigger members  1100  can be used on any of the modular frame assemblies described herein in connection with  FIGS.  1 - 11    or any other modular frame assemblies described herein. 
     The methods, systems, and devices discussed above are examples. Various configurations may omit, substitute, or add various procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, in alternative configurations, the methods may be performed in an order different from that described, and that various steps may be added, omitted, or combined. Also, features described with respect to certain configurations may be combined in various other configurations. Different aspects and elements of the configurations may be combined in a similar manner. Also, technology evolves and, thus, many of the elements are examples and do not limit the scope of the disclosure or claims. 
     Specific details are given in the description to provide a thorough understanding of example configurations (including implementations). However, configurations may be practiced without these specific details. For example, well-known processes, structures, and techniques have been shown without unnecessary detail to avoid obscuring the configurations. This description provides example configurations only, and does not limit the scope, applicability, or configurations of the claims. Rather, the preceding description of the configurations provides a description for implementing described techniques. Various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. 
     Also, configurations may be described as a process that is depicted as a flow diagram or block diagram. Although each may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In addition, the order of the operations may be rearranged. A process may have additional stages or functions not included in the figure. 
     Having described several example configurations, various modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be used without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For example, the above elements may be components of a larger system, wherein other structures or processes may take precedence over or otherwise modify the application of the invention. Also, a number of operations may be undertaken before, during, or after the above elements are considered. Accordingly, the above description does not bound the scope of the claims. 
     A statement that a value exceeds (or is more than) a first threshold value is equivalent to a statement that the value meets or exceeds a second threshold value that is slightly greater than the first threshold value, e.g., the second threshold value being one value higher than the first threshold value in the resolution of a relevant system. A statement that a value is less than (or is within) a first threshold value is equivalent to a statement that the value is less than or equal to a second threshold value that is slightly lower than the first threshold value, e.g., the second threshold value being one value lower than the first threshold value in the resolution of the relevant system.