ASSEMBLAGE OF DECORATIVE FURNISHINGS

Abstract

An array of furnishings positionable as decor includes a plurality of furnishings and a plurality of fasteners mounted to the plurality of furnishings. The plurality of furnishings are connectable to one another via the plurality of fasteners. When the plurality of furnishings are connected, the plurality of furnishings are movable as a single body.

Description

BACKGROUND

[0001] Exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to home furnishings, and more specifically, to a system of home furnishings that are typically displayed as a form of decor.

[0002] Pillows and other furnishings are often arranged for decorative purposes, such as on top of a bed for example. When used to decorate a fully made up bed, the decorative pillows are typically not used for sleeping. As a result, at bedtime, the pillows are removed from the bed. Setting up and removing the decorative pillows from a bed or another piece of furniture can be not only tedious, but also time consuming. For example, it can take several minutes each time a group of pillows needs to be carefully positioned on a bed for display and also several minute to remove the group of pillows.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0003] According to an embodiment, an array of furnishings positionable as decor includes a plurality of furnishings and a plurality of fasteners mounted to the plurality of furnishings. The plurality of furnishings are connectable to one another via the plurality of fasteners. When the plurality of furnishings are connected, the plurality of furnishings are movable as a single body.

[0004] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the array includes furnishings extending in two directions.

[0005] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings includes at least two rows of furnishings.

[0006] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings within adjacent rows are connected to one another.

[0007] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least one of the plurality of furnishings within a row of the at least two rows is directly connected to another of the plurality of furnishings within the row.

[0008] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments each of the plurality of furnishings is a same type of furnishing.

[0009] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings includes at least two different types of furnishings.

[0010] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of fasteners is mechanical fasteners.

[0011] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of fasteners permanently connect the plurality of furnishings within the array.

[0012] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings includes a pillow.

[0013] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings includes a stuffed animal or doll.

[0014] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings are positionable at a seating area.

[0015] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings is movable as a single body from a first position where the plurality of furnishings is on display as decor to a second storage position, located remotely from the first position.

[0016] According to another embodiment, a method of removing decor includes providing a plurality of furnishings. The plurality of furnishings is arranged in an array and each of the plurality of furnishings within the array is connected to another of the plurality of furnishings within the array. The method additionally includes moving the plurality of furnishings from a first location to a second location. The plurality of furnishings are moved simultaneously as a single unitary body.

[0017] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the array includes furnishings extending in two directions.

[0018] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings includes at least two rows of furnishings.

[0019] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments moving the plurality of furnishings includes applying a force to only a portion of the plurality of furnishings within the array.

[0020] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments at least one of the first location and the second location of the plurality of furnishings is on top of a bed.

[0021] According to another embodiment, a method of forming an array of furnishings includes providing a plurality of furnishings, arranging the plurality of furnishings within an array, and connecting the plurality of furnishings within the array together such that the plurality of furnishings is movable as a single body between a first location and a second location.

[0022] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings are removably connected.

[0023] In addition to one or more of the features described above, or as an alternative, in further embodiments the plurality of furnishings are permanently connected.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] The subject matter, which is regarded as the invention, is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The foregoing and other features, and advantages of the invention are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0025] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an array of furnishings displayed on a bed according to an embodiment;

[0026] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the furnishings of the array of FIG. 1 when separated from one another according to an embodiment;

[0027] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of adjacent furnishings within an array according to an embodiment;

[0028] FIG. 4 is another perspective view of adjacent furnishings within an array according to an embodiment;

[0029] FIG. 5 is a front view of the array of furnishings when assembled according to an embodiment; and

[0030] FIG. 6 is another front view of an array of furnishings when assembled according to an embodiment.

[0031] The detailed description explains embodiments of the invention, together with advantages and features, by way of example with reference to the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] With reference now to FIG. 1, an array 20 or assembly of furnishings 22, such as typically displayed within an area of a home for example, is shown. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the array 20 of furnishings 22 is a plurality of pillows arranged in rows and positioned upon a made-up bed. However, it should be understood that an array 20 of furnishings 22 positionable at any suitable location, such as on a couch, chair, window seat, or bookshelf for example, is contemplated herein. Further, the term "furnishing" as used herein is intended to describe any type of decorative accessory, including but not limited to pillows, throws or blankets, stuffed animals, banners or flags, dolls, books, faux flowers or fruit, or any other suitable type of decor that is commonly displayed in multiples.

[0033] In the non-limiting embodiment illustrated in the FIGS., the array 20 of furnishings 22 includes three distinct rows 24 of furnishings 22, such as pillows for example. More specifically, the array 20 includes a back row of at least one pillow 22, a front row of at least one pillow 22, and an intermediate row of at least one pillow 22. Although the array 20 is shown having three rows 24, it should be understood that embodiments including only two rows, or more than four rows of furnishings are also contemplated herein. In addition, embodiments where the array 20 includes a plurality of furnishings 22 arranged in a different configuration, including a non-linear configuration are within the scope of the disclosure. Further the number of furnishings 22 within each row 24 may be the same or may vary between adjacent rows 24 as shown in FIG. 1.

[0034] The furnishings 22 within each row and the furnishings 22 within adjacent rows 24 may be generally identical, or alternatively, may vary in one or more of size, shape and appearance (color, pattern, etc.). Although the furnishings 22 are illustrated and described herein as being the same type within each of the rows 24 of the array 20, embodiments where different types of furnishings 22 are combined within an array 20 or even within a single row 24 of an array 20 are also contemplated herein.

[0035] The furnishings 22 within the array 20 may be permanently or removably coupled to one another. In an embodiment, the furnishings 22 within the array 20 are coupled to another at one or more connections 30 via one or more suitable connectors or mechanical fasteners 32. Example of suitable mechanical fasteners 32 include, but are not limited to, snap closures, hook and loop closures, Velcro.TM., hook and eye closures, zippers, magnets, or any other fastener suitable for use with a fabric material. In such embodiments, the mechanical fasteners 32 may be attached to the furnishings 22 via any suitable means. For example, the mechanical fasteners 32 may be sewn onto the furnishings 22, or alternatively, may be affixed thereto, such as via a glue or other adhesive. In embodiments where the furnishings 22 are permanently connected to one another to form the array 20, the furnishings 22 may be connected via a chemical compound, such as adhesive, or may be sewn together. In embodiments where multiple connections are formed between the plurality of furnishings 22 within an array 20, the plurality of connections 30 may be substantially identical, or may vary, for example based upon the location of the connection 30 relative to one of the furnishings 22. Further, the fasteners 32 may be positioned relative to the furnishings 22 such that the fasteners 32 are generally hidden from view. For example, the fasteners 32 may be hidden from view such that when the array 20 of furnishings 22 is on display, the fasteners 32 cannot be detected.

[0036] As best shown in FIG. 2, the furnishings 22 within adjacent rows 24 are configured to directly connect to one another. In embodiments where the furnishings 22 are stacked in overlapping rows 24 (as shown), connections 30 are formed at the surfaces of the furnishings 22 that are arranged directly adjacent and/or in contact with one another. For example, a first portion 32a of a fastener 32 is formed at a first surface 40, such as a back surface of a first furnishing 22a, and a second portion 32b of the fastener 32 is formed at a first surface 42, such as a front surface for example, of a furnishing 22 within an adjacent row. Based on the overall size of each furnishing 22 and the number of furnishings 22 in adjacent rows, a furnishing 22 may be configured to couple to a single furnishing 22 in an adjacent row, or alternatively, may be configured to couple to multiple furnishings 22 in adjacent row. In an embodiment, a furnishing 22 is configured to couple to each of the furnishings 22 in an adjacent row that the furnishing 22 overlaps within the array 20.

[0037] With reference now to FIGS. 3 and 4, in embodiments where the array 20 has multiple rows, or another non-linear configuration, the furnishings 22 within the same row 24 of the array 20 need not be directly connected to one another. For example, if the array 20 includes a first row 24 having a single pillow 22 and a second row 24 having two pillows 22, the first pillow of the second row may be connected to the second pillow of the second row via the connection to the pillow of the first row.

[0038] However, embodiments where furnishings 22 within the same row 24 are directly connected to one another are also contemplated herein. As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, in an embodiment, adjacent furnishings 22 within a single row 24 of the array 20 are connectable to one another at at least one location. In the illustrated, non-limiting embodiment, the sides of two adjacent pillows are configured to contact one another at multiple, distinct locations, such as at a first end 50, a second end 52, and a central area 54 located between the first end 50 and the second end 52. Although three points of connection are shown, it should be understood that the total number of connections 30 between adjacent furnishings 22 within a row 24 and the position of those connections 30 will vary based on the size and shape of the furnishings 22.

[0039] With respect to adjacent furnishings 22 within a row 24, the corresponding portions of each fastener may be arranged such that the first end 50 and the second end 52 of a first surface 56 of a first furnishing 22 are connected to the first end 50 and the second end 52 of a second, opposite surface 58 of the second, adjacent furnishing 22. For example, a first portion 32a of a first and second connector 32 are mounted to the first surface 56 of the first pillow 22 adjacent a first edge 60 thereof. Similarly, the second portion 32b of the first and second connector 32 are mounted to the second, opposite surface 58 of the second pillow 22 adjacent a first edge 62 thereof. Accordingly, when the first and second portion 32a, 32b of the connectors 32 are joined, the ends 50, 52 of the second pillow 22 are arranged in front of the ends 50, 52 of the first pillow 22. The centrally located connection 30 may be formed at the respective edges 60, 62 of the furnishings 22 regardless of which furnishing is arranged generally forward of the adjacent furnishing. However, it should be understood that any configuration of a connection between furnishings within the array is within the scope of the disclosure.

[0040] When the furnishings 22 within the array 20 are connected to one another, the array 20 is movable as a single unitary body in response to application of a force. With reference now to FIGS. 5 and 6, as shown, the furnishings 22 within the array 20 remain connected to one another when a force is applied to a single location of the array 20 or to only a portion of the furnishings 22 within the array 20 directly. As a result, the array 20 of furnishings 28 may be more efficiently moved between locations, rather than moving each furnishing of the array individually. Similarly, the furnishings 22 within the array 20 remain connected to one another as a single entity when held by an operator at a location and the furnishings 22 of the array 20 are otherwise unsupported with respect to a gravitational force acting thereon. The connection between the furnishings 22 within the array 20 is sufficient to maintain the plurality of furnishings 22 in the general configuration of the array 20 until a user intentionally separates the furnishings.

[0041] An array 20 of furnishings 22 as described herein is easily moved between a first display location and a second storage location when connected as a single body. For example, in embodiments where the array 20 of furnishings 22 is a variety of throw pillows arranged on top of a bed as a means of decoration, the group 20 of pillows may be moved as a whole from the top of the bed at night to use the bed, and may be returned to the top of the bed in the morning once the bed is remade.

[0042] While the invention has been described in detail in connection with only a limited number of embodiments, it should be readily understood that the invention is not limited to such disclosed embodiments. Rather, the invention can be modified to incorporate any number of variations, alterations, substitutions or equivalent arrangements not heretofore described, but which are commensurate with the spirit and scope of the invention. Additionally, while various embodiments of the invention have been described, it is to be understood that aspects of the invention may include only some of the described embodiments. Accordingly, the invention is not to be seen as limited by the foregoing description, but is only limited by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An array of furnishings positionable as decor, the array comprising: a plurality of furnishings; and a plurality of fasteners mounted to the plurality of furnishings, the plurality of furnishings being connectable to one another via the plurality of fasteners, wherein when the plurality of furnishings are connected, the plurality of furnishings are movable as a single body.

2. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein the array includes furnishings extending in two directions.

3. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein the plurality of furnishings includes at least two rows of furnishings.

4. The array of furnishings of claim 3, wherein the plurality of furnishings within adjacent rows are connected to one another.

5. The array of furnishings of claim 4, wherein at least one of the plurality of furnishings within a row of the at least two rows is directly connected to another of the plurality of furnishings within the row.

6. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of furnishings is a same type of furnishing.

7. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein the plurality of furnishings includes at least two different types of furnishings.

8. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein the plurality of fasteners is mechanical fasteners.

9. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein the plurality of fasteners permanently connect the plurality of furnishings within the array.

10. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein the plurality of furnishings includes a pillow.

11. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein the plurality of furnishings includes a stuffed animal or doll.

12. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein the plurality of furnishings are positionable at a sleeping or seating area.

13. The array of furnishings of claim 1, wherein the plurality of furnishings is movable as a single body from a first position where the plurality of furnishings is on display as decor to a second storage position, located remotely from the first position.

14. A method of removing decor, comprising: providing a plurality of furnishings, wherein the plurality of furnishings is arranged in an array, and each of the plurality of furnishings within the array is connected to another of the plurality of furnishings within the array; moving the plurality of furnishings from a first location to a second location, wherein the plurality of furnishings are moved simultaneously as a single unitary body.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the array includes furnishings extending in two directions.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein moving the plurality of furnishings includes applying a force to only a portion of the plurality of furnishings within the array.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein at least one of the first location and the second location of the plurality of furnishings is on top of a bed.

18. A method of forming an array of furnishings comprising: providing a plurality of furnishings; arranging the plurality of furnishings within an array; and connecting the plurality of furnishings within the array together such that the plurality of furnishings is movable as a single body between a first location and a second location.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the plurality of furnishings are removably connected.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the plurality of furnishings are permanently connected.