Modular metamorphosis: parsimonious pedestal-platform furniture system.TM., (alternatively called the modular metamorphosis 3-P system.TM. or the modular metamorphasis base-pair furniture system.TM.)

Abstract

The invention is an interlocking, modular system utilizing reconfiguration and repositioning of two basic elements which together comprise the basic "Modular Metamorphosis Base-Pair Unit®." The basic "base-pair" unit is composed of one horizontal support platform and one vertical support pedestal whose design enables repositioning the elements of the Base-Pair Unit® into multiple functional units (furniture and storage) as well as aesthetic (design or decorative) entities, in a parsimonious and space-saving fashion. Accessory elements that further extend, subdivide, enhance, or embellish the invention may be stored within the integrally configured and interchangeable storage units contained in the hollowed out base-pair elements. The interlock assembly system is accomplished without tools and predicated on the inherent complimentarily of the architectural design of the base-pair elements, as the invention does not use legs. The invention enables space transformation from eating to study to sleep to play space by reconfiguring the base-pair elements to form different types of furniture that address the needs of the moment.

Description

PRIMARY CLASS

[0001] 297/440/14 5/9.1

Other Classes:

[0002] 5/2.1, 5/8

International Classes:

A47C17/32; A47C19/22; A47C 17/00; A47C 19/00

A47/B47/05; A47B96/14; F16B12/20; F16B12/40; A47B47/00; A47B96/00

F16B12/00(IPCI-7)A47B47/00; A47B43/00

[0003] 297/440/14

Field of Search:

[0004] 5/9.1, 5/10.2, 5/2.1, 5/8, 5/10.1, 5/11

US Patent References

TABLE-US-00001 [0005] 4,103,373 Portable folding bed cabinet August, 1978 Luedtke et al. 5/166.1 4,044,410 Combination bunk bed and seat August, 1977 Klingler 3,829,907 BED ACCESSORY August, 1974 Brunner 5/8 3,811,138 CONVERTIBLE BERTH May, 1974 Del Missier 5/9.1 3,311,932 Berth-settee combination April, 1967 Ahola 5/9.1 3,028,606 Sleeping berth April, 1962 Boutet 5/9.1 2,945,241 Convertible bed July, 1960 Sideroff 5/8 2,854,672 Folding couch bunk-bed October, 1958 Hagstrom 5/9.1 2,550,599 Bed or berth structure April, 1951 Reed 5/9.1 2,440,515 Convertible berth or bed lounge and like devices April, 1948 Kelly, Jr. et al. 5/59.1 0,544,982 N/A August, 1895 Hoskins 297/62 0,544,980 N/A August, 1895 Hoskins 105/321

US Patent References

Furniture System

Kopish--January, 2001-6167579

Bed Movable to Plural Positions

Crews--March, 1991-4999864

Convertible Sofa-Bed

Williams--May, 1990-4922561

Sofa-Bunk Bed Combination

Page--December, 1985-4555821

Modular Furniture

Bianco--January, 1982-4312086

Substitute Specifications

[0006] The Submission contains no new matter.

Needs and Status of the Current State of the Art

[0007] Modular furniture which is assembled from pre-fabricated components is more convenient and efficient to store and to transport that traditional furniture because un-assembled components can be packed and shipped separately and assembled on-site, thereby reducing shipping costs. Furniture too heavy or awkward to be conveniently moved through doorways, hallways or staircases is thus avoided. Modular furniture is disclosed, for example in U.S. Pat. No. 3,973,000 to Kogan.

[0008] Nevertheless, some designs require specially designed tools configured for the exact furniture purchased. Should the consumer be unable to locate the tools or have difficulty with mechanical assembly, the modular system proves difficult at best. Furthermore, the aging demographic has resulted in a population for whom fine motor coordination or handling of heavy tools or electronic implements that vibrate is contraindicated. Thus, a modular system that can address the constraints of this population would advance the state-of-the-art.

[0009] Modular furniture is also often limited to single or dual purpose, generally functioning to create multiples of the same type of furniture or to change dimensions or customize positioning. Thus, while its configuration can be changed or multiplied, transformation of the same modular furniture components into multiple different types of uses has thus far been limited.

[0010] Additionally, to optimize functionality, most modular furniture requires additional elements or modules to be procured--which requires additional storage facilities when they are not in use. The issue of maximal space utilization when the modular units are not in use is, therefore, a problem with the current state of the art. This is especially true with legs or other components removed in various modular operations that require storage when not in use.

[0011] Given the current and projected economic climate, interior living space is becoming more costly. The downward change in economic climate has curtailed spending on even important items such as furniture, forcing people to limit furniture consumption. Forecasts of increased inflation continue to increase the cost of interior square footage, meaning that the need for furniture that serves more uses than current modular systems typically allow while taking up minimal or no space when not in use has become a necessity. Thus maximal utilization of space has become a key consideration in furniture design.

[0012] Therefore, it would be desirable to combine advantages of the modular system--as well as incorporate benefits of simple assembly, i.e. a non-tool, low-tech assembly system, while addressing the need for better space utilization, including providing for storage, ease of transport and addressing design or decor considerations at the same time. In this regard, the fewer elements involve in the system translates into more efficient use of space, while the attention to design of every element would allow each element of the system to be repurposed and reconfigured to address both aesthetic and functional concerns. Further, the design of the hollowed-out construction of the base-pair elements is configured to provide additional storage space.

[0013] This invention relates to furniture and, more particularly, to a modular elements that can be reconfigured to serve as dining tables, desks, benches, day beds, chaise loungers and other forms of furniture and can transform a bedroom into a study, dining room, living room, or playroom or media room, among other uses, simply and without the use of external tools or the need to procure additional furniture, storage, design or decorative elements. The invention not only provides for furniture reconfiguration, but its method of construction enables the room to be redesigned to serve entirely different functions without the need for additional furniture, while also attending to the decorative or design aspects that accompany redecorating.

[0014] This invention also addresses problems that exist in the current state of the art by minimizing storage space when elements of the modular system are not in use, as well as incorporating storage elements within the system to provide for additional storage.

[0015] The design of the Modular Metamorphosis Base-Pair System®, also allows for customization of storage type preferences as the internal storage compartments can either be mass-produced or customized to the consumer's needs.

[0016] Because elements of the unit are either used in all embodiments or stored within the system or in an accompanying aesthetic design unit (subject of the Cross-Referenced Application Modular Metamorphosis Accessory Unit: the Bed-Case-Closet®) and because the unit can be reconfigured into multiple types of furniture which typically are not used at the same time, the need to buy additional furniture pieces is minimized and space utilization is maximized. The invention, then, not only allows for redeployment of space and saves storage space, but comes equipped with its own internally configured storage space that obviates the need to buy additional furniture to use the room in its new format. Moreover, all elements of the system provide a unified aesthetic for the complete room that applies in any of the configurations.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0017] This invention conserves space and cost by serving multiple uses generated by the configuration and design of the two members of the basic Base-Pair Unit® the platform and the pedestal. All elements are in actual use at all times or designed such that they can be used to maximize interior design possibilities or else stored inside the unit. Thus, by simply maneuvering the interlocking parts the function of the room can be changed without tools. As all parts of the basic Base-Pair Unit® are redeployed to become part of the room's new function or design, space is conserved. With the inclusion of additional accessories stored either within the basic two components (the pedestal or platform), and/or within additional accessory storage units (such as described in the cross referenced application Modular Metamorphosis Accessory #1--the Bed-Case-Closet,® the Modular Metamorphosis Mightotic Connector® and the Modular Metamorphosis Enhanced Platform Units, the uses of the base-pair units can be further enhanced and enlarged.

[0018] The invention is an interlocking, space-saving modular furniture system utilizing the reconfiguration and repositioning of two basic elements, jointly called the Modular Metamorphosis Base-Pair Unit.® The Base-Pair Unit® is composed of a horizontal support platform and a vertical support (or pedestal). The construction and configuration of the elements of the Base-Pair Unit® enables their repositioning and repurposing into multiple functional (support as well as storage) units and aesthetic (display) entities.

[0019] Both components of the Base-Pair Unit® are constructed such that they contain design elements with multiple functions. These design elements also jointly act as interlocking assembly mechanism, can be used independently as design accents and allow for the surface of the pedestal and platform to be changed at a later time to match evolving or change decor or aesthetic tastes.

[0020] The internal configuration of the platform and pedestal are constructed to allow for integration of a multiplicity of storage units which can be customized to suit the needs of the consumer. Other accessories that further extend the use, enhance or embellish the invention as well as serving as free-standing inventions of their own, are contained or stored within the integrated storage units which are contained in the base pair units.

[0021] Both elements of the Base-pair Unit®, are constructed with the capacity to be subdivided further (See cross-referenced patent application Metamorphosis Mightotic Connector® and Enhanced 3-P Platform) to allow for additional uses.

[0022] The parsimonious nature of the system enables reconstitution of the elements of the Base-Pair Unit--without tools. The new configurations and iterations serve multiple and varied uses, such as (but not limited to) a coffee-table, dining table or bench. An enclosed internally configured storage unit--which also serves as design element--contains enhancements or accessories that transform the basic base-pair unit into furniture items such as beds, loungers, couches, as well as storing dining elements used in conventional dining, thereby saving both space as well as the need to purchase furniture that fills both dining, study and sleeping requirements. The parsimonious elements, as well as the internally configured assembly and storage parts, allow for maximum usage possibilities and occupies minimal space at all stages and phases of use or storage. Together with the elements of the accompanying accessory units, (referred to herein and in the accompanying application) the basic system can be embellished further to serve as a more luxurious bed, day-bed, couch, chaise-lounge along with additional display and storage units.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0023] This application is crossed reference with the following applications

Modular Metamorphosis Accessory Unit Bed-Case Closet®

Modular Metamorphosis Mightotic Connector® and Enhanced Platform Systems

Babitat Designs® for the Modular Metamorphosis System

DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING

[0024] FIG. 1: Embodiment as a dining table. Architectural black drawer-pulls of storage unit in pedestal constitute part of the interlocking assembly system. The pedestal is in its upright configuration in this embodiment. When the pedestal is rested on its side to form the base for the coffee table and other renditions, these drawer-pulls interlock with companion receptors imbedded in the platform. In the current metamorphosis the black architectural drawer-pulls act as design elements as well as functional units to open the drawers of the concealed storage unit contained in the pedestal.

[0025] FIG. 2: Embodiment as a coffee table. The pedestal is turned on its side with the bottom facing the viewer (if standing in upright position) The platform is placed on top secured by the drawer pulls in the pedestal. The architectural elements that secure the pedestal to the platform when it is in a standing position form aesthetic elements when viewed from the side.

[0026] FIG. 3: Embodiment as a chaise longue/Recarrier. Rounded bolster-pillows may be stored inside storage unit of pedestal; mattress-cushion may be stored inside the platform. The pedestal is turned on its side so that bottom (if standing in upright position) is facing viewer

[0027] FIG. 4: Embodiment as a platform bed. Mattress is stored in Modular Metamorphosis Accessory Unit Bed-Case-Closet® (cross-referenced application). The pedestal is turned on its side so that the top--if standing in an upright position--is facing the viewer. The black embellishments are decorative in this position. In the upright position they are used to secure the pedestal to the platform as interlocking elements.

[0028] FIG. 5: Embodiment as a bench for extra seating. The seat cushions can be stored in the storage base of the pedestal unit.

[0029] FIG. 6: Embodiment as a couch. The cushions and pillows can be stored in storage space within the pedestal and/or the platform.

[0030] FIG. 7: Embodiment as a gaming table. Ping-pong accessories can be stored inside the pedestal's interior storage unit.

[0031] FIG. 8: Embodiment as a club chair.

[0032] FIG. 9: THE PEDESTAL STORAGE SYSTEM

[0033] FIG. 9a

[0034] A view of the storage/pedestal unit from above. The decorative elements in the pedestal (which are striped in this iteration) are facing the viewer. In this iteration they are integrated into the pedestal. The curved units depicted on top and bottom of the pedestal are the drawer pulls seen from above. Inside the pedestal are two storage compartments (the gray space) that can be configured to suit the consumer's preferences. The storage compartment in this depiction is one unit.

[0035] FIG. 9 b: A view of the pedestal from above (looking down). In this iteration the design features are constructed with decorative material (here they are gray) and can screw off and on to be used as display objects d'art. The finials that attach the marble objects d'art are black dots. In this embodiment the pedestal is constructed with two storage elements that are fused together. Inside the right unit are drawers. Inside the left portion is a hinged unit ((hinges depicted by white dotted lines) that opens from above for tall storage of bolster and couch pillows.

[0036] FIG. 9c: Side perspective view of the side of pedestal with the top side (if in an upright position) facing the viewer. In this embodiment it is placed on its side as the vertical support structure of a coffee-table or a bed. This embodiment contains two separate pedestal units fused together. (Alternatively the pedestal can be subdivided into separate units that can be disassembled, as described in the Cross-referenced Application for the Modular Metamorphosis Mightotic Connector®), In this embodiment, the side facing the viewer contains decorative features colored in black that can be integrated or screwed on or off for use as a decorating objects. In this embodiment only the center diamond can be removed. The white dots in the center are finals that attack the object to the pedestal. In this depiction, the drawers of the storage unit are facing up and the top of the drawer-pulls can be seen in a modified elevation view.

[0037] FIG. 9d is a 3-D perspective view of the side of the pedestal. The part faring the viewer is the top if placed in an upright position. In this embodiment the pedestal unit is one element with four drawers. The drawer-pulls (seen on the top in this depiction) form part of the interlocking assembly that secures pedestal to the platform. The drawer pulls on the bottom can be configured to roll. The triangular and rectangular elements facing the viewer interlock with the platform when used as a table. In this embodiment they can be removed and used as decorative objects. They are screwed on and off by the finials that are depicted as black fluted objects. (ref. no. 25, FIG. 9d).

[0038] FIG. 9e is front/top 3-D perspective of the pedestal unit (viewed with the pedestal in its upright position.) In this iteration the storage unit contains shelves enclosed behind a hinged front door, with attached columns or pilasters (columns cut lengthwise), running the entire length of the pedestal. They form the same shape as the drawer pulls when aligned with the drawers closed.

[0039] FIG. 9f is a front 3-D view of a pedestal storage unit in upright position. In this embodiment the pedestal would be positioned for the unit to function as a dining table. In this embodiment there is one storage unit with four drawers, which are open in this iteration. When the drawers are closed, the drawer-pulls form a vertical column (or pilasters) that fit into the interlock receptacle in the underside of the platform when the pedestal is used as the supporting element in the embodiment as a bed or couch. In the embodiment depicted here, the unit is standing up poised to support the platform for use as a dining table. The diamond and triangular units are poised to interlock with the complimentary interlock receptacle or cut-out in the underside of the platform.

[0040] FIG. 9g is a front 3-D perspective of a two-storage-unit pedestal. In this depiction the drawers are closed. In this embodiment the four drawers on the right are faux, as the unit on the right opens from above with the hinged door. When the drawers are closed, the drawer-pulls form semi-rounded columns or pilaster-units that transcend the four drawers on the left. The drawer-pulls on the left, therefore, are doubly functional; they open the drawers when the unit is upright. While the two columns on the right are purely decorative. When the pedestal is placed on its side, all four columns will form part of the interlock assembly with the platform. Another set of drawer-pulls is on the back of the unit. In this embodiment, they are all faux.

[0041] FIG. 10 The Platform

[0042] FIG. 10a. The Underside of the platform in a 3-D perspective view.

[0043] In this depiction of the underside of the platform two interlock receptacles on the right side can be seen that match the both forms of the drawer-pulls (embodied as semi-rounded pilaster-units or columns when the drawer are closed, as well as one triangular and one half of the diamond extrusions. Four O-rings are embedded in each corner. These are embedded in the platform to secure the mattress with simple ties or clips. In this depiction, the hollowed inside is visible, as is one of the doors that opens to allow access. (the access doors, ref. no. 16)

[0044] FIG. 10b: Underside of platform

[0045] This is a simple two-dimensional view (elevation) looking at the underside of the platform and visualizing the receptacles for the extrusions of the pedestal, the hinges and the O-rings. The black dotted lines on either side of the platform are piano hinges that open the unit so it can house additional storage such as mattresses and cushions. The hinged doors come together and lock in the center at the dotted line in the center, where they secure via clasps (ref. no 15) and tongue and grooves (see FIG. 10a ref no. 26.,) in the access doors.

[0046] FIG. 11 Detail views interlock units

[0047] FIG. 11a: Detailed view of interior of the removable decorative unit.

[0048] Detailed view of receptacle for diamond extrusions used in the dining/table desk assembly. In this embodiment, the hollowed out receptacle is lined with magnets or magnetized paint to enhance its avidity with the companion interlock element.

[0049] FIG. 11b: Detailed view of receptacle for drawer-pull column system. The hollowed out receptacle or cut-out (white) is lined with latex or elastic (black) to facilitate a smooth and secure fit. In addition springs can be installed at either longitudinal end to further secure the fit. The inside of the receptacle contains a magnetizing element.

[0050] FIG. 12: Detail view of drawer and drawer-pull

[0051] In this perspective view the drawer pull is both hollow and removable. The drawer has a drawer-pull on both front and back. From the outside they look identical. However, on closer examination they are two different drawer pulls with different functionalities. The use of different drawer pulls that have the same shape on one side facilitates and expands the number of drawer-pulls with which each "receptor" or "cut" or interlock mechanism on the underside of the platform can "connect" or "mate" or "interlock."

[0052] FIG. 13 Detailed view single drawer and drawer-pull system.

[0053] FIG. 13 a--Detailed view looking down (top elevation) into the drawer, showing two different mechanisms. On the top (back of the drawer, ref no 17), separated from the alternative mechanism by a wavy line (ref no. 20) for illustration purposes only is one type of removable drawer pull, (ref no. 19) shown in detail in FIGS. 13a and 13b called the "Demi-lune" interlock. On the bottom (front) is the rolling drawer pull (ref no. 25) described in the paragraph below which fits into pre-cut spaces (ref no. 24, see also FIG. 13 c, and FIG. 13 d.

[0054] FIG. 13 b is a detailed drawing of an embodiment of the Demi-lune interlock. It is rounded on the outside, and attached to two flexible extrusions (ref no. 20) which squeeze into the opening in the drawer (ref no. 21) and then release into the housing that is configured to fit them, (ref. no. 22) The demi-lune drawer-pull allows for a hollowed out space to exist between the rounded configuration of the drawer-pull and the drawer front (FIG. 12, ref no. 23). It can be fabricated with a transparent or translucent material and LED or other lighting elements or fabric that matches the rooms soft decor, which are visible through the transparent housing. The external shape of the Demi-lune drawer-pull may be a pilaster, (i.e. half a column) curved on the side facing the viewer, and flat on the back, or any other hollowed out shape.

[0055] When the drawers are closed the Demi-lune units (or their faux companions) stack to form a large pilaster or a column or any other structural shape that can be reverse configured and that fits into the complimenting interlocking receptacle or cut-outs or extrusions in the underside of the platform. The Demi-lune units can be created in reverse, i.e. the drawer can be hollowed out to form a inverted column which fits into an extrusion in the underside of the platform. is a detailed drawing of the drawer shown in 13b but without, the drawer-pulls in place. On the bottom (the front of the drawer), the drawer has two cut outs (FIG. 13b. ref no. 24) through which the rolling drawer-pull is ringed through. When the drawers are closed and lined up, the round drawer-pull (FIG. 130 rolls around the center island which functions as a spindle.

[0056] FIG. 13c . is a side perspective view of the rolling-drawer pull.

[0057] FIG. 13d is an "x-ray" view of the rolling drawer-pull. It is hollow both inside the "ring" of its dough-nut shape and inside the outer ring.

[0058] Both drawer pulls are hollow and can be fabricated with Lucite or other transparent or translucent material that allows for embedded LED lights or other colored materials to show through.

[0059] FIG. 14 deleted

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0060] Beds, desks, tables or benches are commonly constructed with one horizontal surface and multiple vertical support mechanisms, usually multiple legs or stands. Desks or tables or chairs can also be configured with singular vertical supports, commonly called pedestals, which are in effect uni-legged fabrications structurally configured to support the weight of the horizontal plane comprising the desk, table or bench or supporting the mattress of the bed. In this invention, the bed, which also consists of a horizontal support component utilizes the uni-legged support feature of the pedestal desk, table or chair.

[0061] The present invention provides a modular furniture system that creates a bed with a single pedestal for support (see companion design patent applications) which can be reconfigured to serve as desk, table, bench or chaise longue, sofa or couch or daybed amongst other uses. The present invention can be implemented by manufacturing two distinct elements, which contain hollowed-out compartments. The two members of the Base-pair Unit consist of a pedestal base and a horizontal surface platform, which can be reconfigured to form multiple types of furniture using these same two elements. A hollowed-out horizontal platform serves as the support for the desk, bed, or couch TV/DVD/home media stand and other types of furniture, and sits on a vertical elongated pedestal base which contains integrated storage and space for storage. The two elements of the base-pair system can be further subdivided and reassembled using the same principles of interlocking design elements or the Modular Metamorphosis Mightotic Connector® in the cross-referenced application.

[0062] The dimensions of both elements are designed such that the can be repositioned to achieve the standard heights which are commonly used for the various furniture pieces encompassed by the design. E.g. tables and desks are 29 to 31 inches high, (with the vertical support a bit shorter if the tabletop is thick. (FIG. 9g. Ref. no 27) of the pedestal is 28 inches high, allowing for a 2 inch deep platform)

[0063] Coffee tables and low pedestal beds are generally 19 inches high, the same dimension as the depth of pedestal bases of tables, (FIG. 9f. Ref. 28)) The pedestal or vertical support of dining tables and desks are often 48 inches wide (FIG. 9g. Ref. 29)). In this embodiment the pedestal houses two attached storage units. In the preferred embodiment each is 24 inches wide. (FIG. 9f. Ref. no. 30) The architecturally configured drawer-pulls of the pedestal base (FIG. 9f. Ref. No. 31) used to access the storage units are designed to interlock with matching cut outs or receptacles or extrusions in the hollowed platform. (FIG. 10a, ref. no. 32).

[0064] Thus, in the coffee-table, Recarrier, day-bed position, or where the platform needs to be lower than dining table height, the faux drawer-pull column or pilasters on the doors of the pedestal configured as a shelving unit or the closed assembly of individual drawer-pulls forming a column (FIG. 9g, Ref. nos. 9, 10, 12, and 13) snugly fit into the corresponding receptacles or cut-outs on the underside of the platform (FIG. 10 b., Ref. nos 1, 2, 4, and 5, respectively. These cut out or receptacle housings in the platform may be ringed with a flexible rubberized/plastic/elastic or latex edging to allow for a secure fit. (FIG. 11b. Ref. no 33) Alternatively, a metallic spring can be attached at the two opposite ends of the platform to conform to a reciprocal housing in the door-pull. (FIG. 11b, Ref. no. 34) Magnets and magnetized paints ("avidity-enhancing mechanisms) further secure the avidity of the units. (FIG. 11a). These same avidity enhancing mechanisms effect a secure attachment when the pedestal is used to support the platform in the dining table position. In that iteration, the extrusions on the top of the pedestal (FIG. 9g, ref no. 8, 11 and 14) fit into the corresponding receptacles or cut-outs on the underside of the platform (FIG. 10 b., ref nos 7, 3 and 6, respectively).

[0065] No additional hardware or tools are necessary other than those built into the system to secure the vertical pedestal to the horizontal platform due to the "grab-lock" design which makes use of design features embedded into base-pair elements.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0066] A. Configuration of an embodiment in the metamorphosis as a dining table or desk

[0067] The storage pedestal unit is configured so that it is 48 inches long, 29 inches high and 19 inches deep. (FIG. 9g). The storage pedestal is divided in half; one half (24 inches wide) (FIG. 9cf) is composed of four drawers, the other half is hollow, hinged for access on top. (FIG. 9b. Ref no. 35) The top of the pedestal with the drawers is covered; the top with the hollow storage is hinged to allow an opening of 20 inches. (FIG. 9b. Ref no. 36)

[0068] Secured on the top of the pedestal base are three extrusions as described in para. 0018 which are magnetized (i.e. painted with metallic paint or have attached magnets). These extrusions match cut-outs or receptacles in the underside of the platform which are lined with thin magnets or metallic magnetized paint.

[0069] When laid on its side, the front of the pedestal becomes the top--as the base for the bed. The top of the pedestal when standing (with the magnetized/metalized extrusions) can be positioned so it is against a wall or so it faces the room, depending on the decorative effect desired.

[0070] Full length door pulls 6/8 inch deep (FIG. 9f. Ref No 37) and two inches wide are part of the intrinsic design of the drawer unit and traverse the entire 29 inch height of the storage unit from floor to top edge. (FIG. 9f. Ref no. 38) They drawer pulls are hollowed out inside to receive the fold down spindle housed in the cutout of the platform or to contain LED lights. (FIG. 12 Ref. no 23)

[0071] The pedestal is hollow but composed of a solid material encased on the outside with painted or decorative finish which is thin enough to add beauty but not too heavy to be moved, such as acrylic, plastic, wood veneer, thin glass or thin tile. The inside of the pedestal-storage unit is smoothed and in the embellished version covered with flannel or velvet inside the drawers. The drawers also contain tie- or snap enclosures to prevent the stored materials from moving when the pedestal is turned on its side. (Alternatively, the storage component may consist of shelves on which snap lid shut containers are placed in which stored materials are housed. The four doors to the storage unit snap shut with magnetized elements. The storage unit can be configured in quarters (each 9 inches deep) so that each side has four doors or the doors on the reverse side can be faux so that the drawers and shelves are 18 inches deep.)

[0072] Each drawer of the storage unit has 2 drawer-pulls, such that when the drawers are closed they form a column (or a pilaster). Each side of the storage unit has four full length pilasters or columns, (FIG. 9g, Ref Nos. 9, 10, 12, and 13)) positioned equa-distant from the side-edges of the pedestal and the divider of the drawer, e.g. measuring from the right side of the pedestal, 6 inches from the right side of the unit, 18 inches from the right side, 30 inches from the right side and 24 inches from the right side. The top of the pedestal contains three extrusions, one on each side, one in the middle, each one half inch high, to match corresponding cutouts or receptacles that are one half inch deep of the platform.

[0073] The platform horizontal unit, (FIG. 1., Ref no. 39) 72 to 84 inches long, and 36 to 42 inches wide with a two to three inch lip is centered over the pedestal unit. In this embodiment it is 72 inches long and 36 inches wide. The pedestal (FIG. 1. Ref No. 40) is placed so that it is equidistant from all sides.

[0074] This positioning allows for at least a foot of space to extend on either side of the pedestal length-wise and 9 inches widthwise.

[0075] The hollowed out portion of the platform (FIG. 10a) is 6/8 inch deep, making the depth of the platform one inch with a quarter inch covering over the hollowed space. The hollowed out spaces however are not involved in this positioning. The height of the fully assembled desk unit or dining table is 30 inches high.

[0076] Gaming equipment such as ping pong equipment and net can be stored in the drawers and secured via traditional means to the sides of the table.

[0077] The pedestal can be subdivided to form two base elements of drawers positioned at either side of the platform to configure a desk. This embodiment is enabled by the referenced application to the Modular Metamorphosis Mitotic Connector and Enhanced 3-P Interlock System® configuration of the platform. The platform, took, can be subdivided to form two individual square tables of 36 inches (or two 40 inch tables or two 42 inch tables) which can be used as end tables or bistro tables, using the same principles of the interlock architectural assembly system. When not in use they are re-secured to become the two elements of the basic base-pair system stored in the same fashion as the original description (augmented and enhanced by storage in the Cross-Referenced Application to Modular Metamorphosis Unit Accessory #1, the Bed Case-Closet.)

B. Configuration as a Coffee Table (FIG. 2)

[0078] The horizontal base is positioned over the pedestal in the same fashion as if it were to be used as a bed but positioned in the center of the room or between two chairs. Three inches of the platform will extend over the platform in front and in back, and one foot on each side.

C. Configuration as a Seating Bench (FIG. 5)

[0079] Pillows are removed from the storage unit and placed on the top of the coffee table.

D. Configuration as a Bed (FIG. 4)

[0080] The horizontal platform serving as the horizontal element of the table/desk/bed etc. is hollowed out and consists of a shell. The system is best suited for strong but light weight building material such as plywood, acrylic, plastic, Lucite, any of which may be coated with a thin light weight substance such as copper, tin, acrilyized raffia, new types of metals or plastics or even partially made of reinforced corrugated cardboard encased in copper. The underside of the horizontal platform may be secured by piano hinges on the two narrow opposing sides and joined in the middle where the cut out for the middle magnetized extrusions or receptacles is placed. Inside, the platform can house a thin foam mattress, mattress cover, or inflatable mattress.

[0081] The platform serving as the horizontal element of the bed (36-42 inches wide by 72 to 84 inches long by two inches inch deep, with the two inch lip) is lifted off the pedestal by sliding it off the magnetic securing devices and resting it against a wall while the pedestal is repositioned. (While the pedestal is in the standing position long bed roll pillows are removed should the bed be intended to be used as a daybed.) Sheets, pillows, bedding are removed from the storage unit. The pedestal is placed on its side, drawer side up by two people simply laying the pedestal so that it is now 19 inches high and resting on the four door pulls of the reverse side. The door pulls of the active side are placed facing up. The pedestal is placed against the wall leaving a space of 3-4 inches between platform edge and wall. In this embodiment the platform is 40 inches wide and 76 inches long.

[0082] The horizontal platform is placed over the pedestal so that the door-pulls fit securely with the cut-outs or receptacles or extrusions. (There will be three inches on either side of the cut out in the horizontal platform) The horizontal platform will extend 3 inches on each side of the pedestal (and one foot on the top and bottom (lengthwise end), in a cantilevered fashion.)

[0083] The mattress is released from the platform or from the wall display unit (see Cross Referenced Application Modular Metamorphosis Accessory Unit) The mattress is outfitted with the bedding retrieved from the storage unit. The bed is placed so that the head is against the wall in this embodiment.

D. Configuration as a Day-Bed, Sofa or Chaise-Longue (FIG. 3)

[0084] Round pillow rolls are placed on either end of the bed (or on both ends) and an extra set of pillows are placed along the width for use as a day-bed; three sofa cushions are placed over the mattress and additional pillows or cushions are placed along the back width (FIG. 3). In this embodiment Velcro secures the pillow to the mattress.

[0085] It is understood that while certain forms of this invention have been illustrated and described, it is not limited thereto except insofar as such limitations are included in the following claims and allowable functional equivalents thereof.

[0086] The drawer-pulls are configured to be removable (aiding change in decor, reducing weight for moving) and rollable. Additionally, the are hollow, allowing for decorative materials to be placed inside transparently crafted door pulls.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0087] FIG. 1 is a view of a dining table according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention; showing of the pedestal base with attached architectural extrusions (that may also serve as drawer-pulls) and the horizontal platform in its position iteration of a dining table.

[0088] FIG. 2 is a perspective of the coffee table iteration of the present invention.

[0089] FIG. 3 is a perspective side view of the present invention as a chaise-lounge/Recarrier.

[0090] FIG. 4. Is a perspective side view of the rendition of the present invention in the iteration as a platform bed.

[0091] FIG. 5. Is a perspective view of the invention in the iteration of a bench with extra seating.

[0092] FIG. 6. Is a frontal view of the rendition of the present invention in the iteration as couch or sofa

[0093] FIG. 7. Is a perspective view of the rendition of the present invention in the iteration as a gaming table set for ping pong.

[0094] FIG. 8. Is a frontal perspective view of the rendition of the present invention as a club-chair.

[0095] FIG. 9a is a top view elevation of the pedestal storage unit.

[0096] FIG. 9b. is a top view of the storage pedestal unit with the hinged top storage access compartment on the right half.

[0097] FIG. 9d is a side view of the pedestal from the front in the iteration of the coffee table, bed, Recarrier, sofa, or bench or other uses where the platform is to be lower than dining table height.

[0098] FIG. 9c is a side view the pedestal from the front if the pedestal was placed on its side for the coffee table bed, Recarrier, sofa, or bench or other uses where the platform is to be lower than dining table height.)

[0099] FIG. 9d is a three dimensional representation of the above.

[0100] FIG. 9e is a frontal perspective of the full storage base, with the internal storage unit configured as shelves, and the external structure of the pedestal configured as doors with faux architectural elements such as pilasters or columns which match corresponding inserts in the underside of the platform.

[0101] FIG. 9f is a three dimensional perspective of one half of the pedestal showing its composition as four drawers with individual drawer-pulls that if closed would stack to form a column or pilaster, on the vertical plane, and the triangular and (half) diamond shaped extrusions on the top that would fit into corresponding receptacles on the underside of the platform if the pedestal were positioned in the iteration of a dining table.

[0102] FIG. 9g is a 3-D representation of the entire pedestal configured with eight storage drawers, four stacked on one side and four on the other attached together, along with the drawer-pulls aligned as a column, positioned as a pedestal for the dining table iteration. Items 8, 11, and 14 fit into the receptacles and/or cut outs numbered 7, 3, and 6, respectively in FIG. 10b in the dining table iteration. In the iteration as a coffee table, bench, bed, Recarrier, or other form where the horizontal plane or platform needs to be lower than table height, the closed drawer-pulls or the faux equivalents (when the storage base is configured with internal shelves enclosed by doors) numbered 9, 10, 12 and 13 of the pedestal fit into the corresponding receptacles or cut-outs on the underside of the horizontal platform, seen in FIG. 10 b, and numbered 1, 2, 4 and 5 respectively.

EQUIVALENTS

[0103] Many modifications and variations of this invention can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art who are given the teachings of the present invention. The specific embodiments described herein are offered by way of example only, and the invention is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled.

Claims

1. A modular furniture system comprised of one basic unit, called the base-pair, which is composed of two companion elements, the platform and the pedestal, wherein: a. Each element is hollow such that it can be configured to interlock with the companion element, b. The surfaces of each element are configured with interlocking features that correspond with those of the companion element, and c. The interlocking features are decorative as well as functional.

2. The system referred to in claim 1 where the two elements (the platform and pedestal) can be reconfigured and repositioned to assume different furniture functions without additional attachments and embellishments, including as a: a. dining table, b. coffee table and c. bench.

3. As a second independent claim, a modular system that can accommodate soft furnishing enhancements attachments and accessories (such as mattresses and pillows), such that the addition broadens the different functions the system can attain such as: a. A platform bed, b. day-bed or chaise, and c. club chair.

4. As a third independent claim, a modular system which each of the two elements can be further sub-divided and reconfigured to assume even greater functionality, such as: a. A desk, b. display unit, and c. storage unit.

5. As a fourth independent claim, an interlocking system where each element contains interlocking features on the surfaces of the two elements, wherein a. The interlocking features on a surface of one element are male "extrusions" on one element that correspond with female "cut-outs" or "receptacles" on the other b. The interlocking features on a surface of one element are female devices (cut-outs or receptacles) that correspond with male extrusions on the companion member, c. The interlocking features are decorative as well as functional, d. The interlock features on the surface may include both male and female features, e. The interlocking features are hollow, and. f. The interlock features secure the assembly or attachment of one of the elements to the other, such that they interlock with companion spaces in the opposing base-platform component (i.e. they fit into companion (complimentary) receptacles, cut outs and/or extrusions).

6. As a fifth independent claim, an interlocking system where by virtue of its configuration of the extrusion member, it has multiple purposes, including a. drawer pulls, b. rolling devices, c. display stands, d. interlock devices, e. aesthetic embellishments, and f. housing for aesthetic enhancements.

7. An interlocking assembly system referred to in claim 6, wherein the interlock features a. Are architectural elements that function individually and collectively, b. That individually serve one function, such as a drawer pull for one drawer and c. Collectively they assume a form that acts as an interlocking device, such as a column.

8. The system referred to in claim 6-8 where the interlock features units can be attached to or embedded in or fashioned as premolded parts of the base-pair elements

9. The system referred to in claim 6-9 which contains interlock features that are removable to aid in transport, assembly, or moving,

10. The system referred to in claim 6-10 which contains interlock features that can be used as aesthetic elements for decoration.

11. The system referred to in claim 6-11 where each extrusion is hollow enabling it to contain aesthetic enhancements

12. The components referred to in claims 6-12 above can be fabricated from easily accessible building materials such as corrugated cardboard or cardboard tubes covered with thin metal or acrylic to achieve the drawer pulls, acrilyized raffia, Lucite, acrylic or other plastics, or laminates,:

13. The system referred to in claim 6-13 where the interlock units contain additional avidity enhancing material, such as metallic paint and magnets, latex or elastic, or springs, and may be further secured, by a snap-lock design, latex or elastic, a spring system, a tongue-in-groove design.

14. As a sixth independent claim, a modular system in which the hollowed out space in the elements of the base-pair unit can be used to store enhancements and accessories, thereby allowing the two-element unit to function in multiple capacities without the need for additional storage space for accessories or attachments when not in use, thereby enabling the system to function in the ultimate space-conservation mode.

15. As a seventh independent claim, a system of configuring the hollowed portions of the base-pair elements for storage where the integrated storage allowing it to take multiple forms, such as, a. shelves, b. drawers, c. hinged "hampers, d. -pull-out or pull-down units, and e. hinged top-loading storage, or in any combination thereof.

16. The system referred to in claims 15-16 may be accessed by hinges, drawer pulls architecturally carved or contained or externally applied.

17. As an eighth independent claim, an interlock system that by virtue of its configuration within the base-pair unit acts as a ROLLING ELEMENT

18. The system referred to in claim 17 where a fold-down spindle element integrated or inserted into a corresponding tube or hollowed cylinder contained in the other. This unit in one member of the base-pair unit can be unfolded such that it that slips inside a hollowed unit such as drawer-pulls or architectural elements of the other member of the base-pair unit, enabling the unit to be moved in a rolling motion.

19. The system referred to in claim 18-20 where rounded drawer-pulls are used as the interlock extrusion such that all or some rotate in the housings provided i.e. they are embedded in the housing element such that they revolve or turn on themselves.

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