MODULAR FURNITURE SYSTEM

Abstract

In one embodiment of the present invention, a kit comprises interchangeable base panels, short side panels, tall side panels, at least one short back panel, at least one tall back panel, at least one horizontal divider, at least one short vertical divider, and at least one tall vertical divider. The base, side, and back panels, and the horizontal and vertical dividers, are selectively assemblable to form at least two disassemblable configurations, including a cubbie configuration and a locker configuration. In certain embodiments, the cubbie configuration includes the base panels, the short side panels, the short back panel, the horizontal divider, and the short vertical divider. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the locker configuration includes the base panels, the tall side panels, the tall back panel, the horizontal divider, and the tall vertical divider.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to a modular furniture system, and more specifically to a system having panels and multiple interlocking dividers to form various furniture configurations.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Modular furniture is a popular method of furnishing in places such as schools. Standard pieces of modular furniture include various components, some of which are similar, and often identical, that assemble together to form pieces of furniture. Typically such arrangements are not intended to be disassembled. In the traditional arrangement, furniture, and even modular furniture, is bulky and weighty, and is thus costly to transport. Kits used to create a specific structure which is intended to be permanent often require fasteners and tools for assembly, include larger and heavier components and may require instructions or training for assembly.

There is a need for an improved modular furniture system. Certain embodiments of the present invention address these and other needs.

SUMMARY

In certain embodiments of the present invention, modular furniture systems and arrangements have interlocking inner dividers and outer panels to create various furniture pieces, such as cubbies or lockers. Certain embodiments are packaged as kits which can be easily shipped and assembled. The kits have components which are preferably interchangeable and connectable to form various configurations. In certain embodiments, the components of the arrangements are removably and slideably connectable, with the components having slots, grooves or shelves to engage each other. The inner dividers, outer panels, and overall assembly can be arranged vertically, horizontally and/or stacked as desired. In preferred embodiments, kits include two base panels and various other components, so that an arrangement including the two base panels with a desired combination of other panels and dividers can be created. In certain embodiments, kits include hinge assemblies so that one or more modular furniture arrangements can be connected together to form an overall assembly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 1B is a front view of one embodiment of the present invention

FIG. 2A is a top view of one side of a component of the embodiment of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2B is a front view of a component of embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a component of the embodiment of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a component of the embodiment of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a component of the embodiment of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 6A is a top view of a component of the embodiment of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 6B is a side view of a component of the embodiment of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 7 is a front view of a component of the embodiment of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 8A is a top view of a component of embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 8B is a top view of a component of embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of yet a further embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13A is a front view of a component of embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 13B is a front view of a component of embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15A is a front view of yet another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15B is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of yet a further embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations, modifications, and further applications of the principles of the invention being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

Illustrated in the accompanying figures are modular furniture systems and arrangements having interlocking inner dividers and outer panels to create various furniture pieces, such as cubbies or lockers. Certain embodiments are packaged as kits which can be easily shipped and assembled and disassembled. The kits have components which are preferably interchangeable and connectable to form various configurations. Non-limiting examples of arrangements are illustrated in the accompanying figures.

In certain embodiments, the components of the arrangements are removably and slideably connectable, with the components having slots, grooves and shelves to engage each other. The inner dividers, outer panels, and overall assembly can be arranged vertically, horizontally and/or stacked as desired. In preferred embodiments, kits include two base panels and various other components, so that an arrangement including the two base panels with a desired combination of other panels and dividers can be created.

FIG. 1A illustrates a modular furniture arrangement 20 creating a plurality of cubbies using two base pieces and a variety of other components. Arrangement 20 includes two base panels 22, two short side panels 24, one long horizontal divider 26, four short vertical dividers 28 and a short back panel 30. In certain embodiments, arrangement 20 includes side casings 32 and back casings 34 (see FIG. 4), selectively and releasably mountable around peripheries of the arrangement, to provide reinforcement, strength and stability to the arrangement and maintain formation of the arrangement. In certain embodiments, the side and back casings are releasably connected to base panels 22. Additionally, the panels and dividers can include mounting holes 36 to allow for the connection of various items, such as other furniture arrangements, hanging hooks, trays, racks or bins (see FIG. 14). The short vertical dividers and the long horizontal divider connect with each other via slots in the dividers (FIGS. 6A-7). In certain embodiments, the base panels and the side panels include grooves and shelves to receive the ends or edges of the dividers to further secure the dividers in place. The panels and the dividers connect together to form arrangement 20.

In the illustrated embodiment, arrangement 20 creates 10 cubbies. It should be appreciated that arrangement 20 is for illustration only and alternate sizes and geometric shapes of the components can be used in other embodiments forming various other furniture pieces. Additionally, arrangement 20 can be orientated differently and the reference directions, including back panels, side panels, and base panels, are for illustration and description purposes only (see, for example, FIG. 1B).

FIG. 1B illustrates an arrangement 20′. Arrangement 20′ includes an arrangement 20 rotated approximately 90 degrees, so that arrangement 20′ is resting on two side casings 32. In certain embodiments, arrangement 20′ includes the same panels and dividers as arrangement 20, except that long horizontal divider 26 is absent. As illustrated, short vertical dividers 28 include slots 57 configured to cooperate with corresponding slots in a long horizontal divider 26. In certain embodiments in which long horizontal divider 26 is absent, inserts 82 are placed in slots 57. Additionally, as illustrated, short side panels 24 include grooves 55 configured to receive ends of a long horizontal divider 26. In certain embodiments in which long horizontal divider 26 is absent, inserts 80 are placed in grooves 55. In the illustrated embodiment, arrangement 20′ creates 5 shelves or cubbie areas stacked vertically. However, it should be appreciated that arrangement 20′ can be arranged differently to create various other cubbie and/or shelf arrangements.

FIG. 2A is a top view of a base panel 22, along with side casings 32 and back casing 34. Panel 22 includes an inner face side 22a opposite an outer face side 22b. Panel 22 is generally rectangular in shape having a length along a length direction L and a generally perpendicular width along a width direction W; however, other geometric shapes and configurations can be used. The casings can be releasably connected to the base panel by screws, brackets, or other such connection mechanisms as would occur to one skilled in the art.

In certain preferred embodiments, base panel 22, in conjunction with side casings 32 and back casings 34, defines grooves to receive ends of the inner dividers, side panels, and back panels, to assemble the arrangement. In the illustrated embodiment, base panel 22 includes five middle portions 42 which serve as the bottom or top of the cubbies. Additionally, base panel 22 includes four middle grooves 44 between middle portions 42 which snugly receive ends or edges of the short vertical dividers. In the illustrated embodiment, there are two side grooves 45, between two end middle portions 42 and side casings 32, which snugly receive ends or edges of the side panels. Additionally, there is one back groove 46, between middle portions 42 and back casing 34, which snugly receives an end or edge of back panel 30. Optionally, the base panels can include ribs or supporting members to provide increased stability and strength to the base panels.

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, base panels 22 are the top and bottom pieces of arrangement 20. In preferred embodiments, the base panels are interchangeable. As illustrated, inner sides 22a face the inside of arrangement 20 and outer sides 22b face out from arrangement 20. In certain alternative embodiments, a bottom base panel is slightly larger than a standard base panel to provide a sturdy base when arrangement 20 is assembled and used.

In certain embodiments, base panels 22 include holes 43 to cooperate with casters and/or other types of wheel mechanisms to provide easier mobility of the arrangements. As an example, FIG. 2B illustrates a caster 70 that can be used with a base panel 22. Caster 70 generally includes a wheel member 72, a housing member 74, and a pin member 76. In certain embodiments, pin member 76 is configured to be received in a hole 43 of base panel 22. In certain embodiments, at least four casters 70, or other such wheel mechanisms, are positioned adjacent the four corners of base panel 22. Optionally a fifth castor can be positioned approximately at the front and middle of base panel 22.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side casing 32. In certain embodiments, side casing 32 includes a groove 47 to receive an end of back casing 34, thereby engaging side casing 32 to back casing 34. Additionally, side casing 32 can include a groove or shelf 48 along an inner edge of the side casing to receive an end of base panel 22. In the illustrated embodiment, groove 48 extends adjacent an upper edge of the illustrated side casing. It should be appreciated that the opposite side casing positioned on the furniture arrangement is a mirror image of the illustrated side casing 32. As stated above, side casing 32 can be connected to base panel 22 by various connection mechanisms as would occur to one skilled in the art, such as a bracket and screw connection mechanism. In certain embodiments, side casing 32 includes a curved section 49. In such embodiments, side casing 32 is positioned with the curved section placed towards the front.

FIG. 4 illustrates a back casing 34. In certain embodiments, back casing 34 includes a groove or shelf 50 along a top inner edge of the back casing to receive an elongated side of base panel 22. As stated above, back casing 34 can be connected to base panel 22 by various connection mechanisms as would occur to one skilled in the art, such as a bracket and screw connection mechanism. Back casing 34 has ends 51 and 52 which, in certain embodiments, are received in grooves 47 in side casings 32 to engage the back casing to the side casings.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side panel 24 having an inner side 24a and an outer side 24b. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, side panels 24 are the sides of arrangement 20 with inner sides 24a facing the inside of arrangement 20 and outer sides 24b facing out from arrangement 20. A groove or shelf 55 is disposed on inner side 24a and configured to receive an end edge of a divider. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1A, shelf 55 receives an end edge of long horizontal divider 26. Shelf 55 preferably does not extend all the way through the thickness of side panel 24 and may not extend the entire width of side panel 24 along a width direction W. Side panel 24 further includes raised ends 24c and 24d. In certain preferred embodiments, ends 24c and 24d are received in grooves 45 of base panels 22 when arrangement 20 is assembled. Additionally, in certain embodiments, side panel 24 can include an extension 56, having an inside surface 56a, to be positioned adjacent back panel 30 to hold back panel 30 in place, providing strength and stability to assembly 20.

It should be appreciated that side panel 24 could be wider along width direction W to create a larger arrangement, such as creating deeper cubbies. Additionally, it should be appreciated that side panel 24 could be taller in a height direction H to create a larger, taller arrangement having larger and/or additional cubbies or lockers. In such embodiments, side panel 24 can include more shelves 55 to receive ends of additional dividers. Side panel 24 is preferably noncircular in shape such as rectangular or square; however, it should be appreciated that alternative shapes and configurations are possible as would occur to one skilled in the art.

FIG. 6A illustrates a long horizontal divider 26 having inter-locking half slots 57. In preferred embodiments, slots 57 are evenly spaced along horizontal divider 26; however, the slots could be irregularly spaced along the divider. Long horizontal divider 26 is preferably noncircular in shape, such as rectangular or square; however, other alternative shapes and configurations are contemplated. Additionally, long horizontal divider 26 can be longer or shorter along length direction L and width direction W. In certain preferred embodiments, a length of the long horizontal divider is substantially equal to lengths of the base panels, and a width of the long horizontal divider is substantially equal to widths of the long and side panels. Long horizontal divider 26 includes ends 26a and 26b. In certain preferred embodiments, ends 26a and 26b are received on shelves 55 of side panels 24 when arrangement 20 is assembled.

In the illustrated embodiment, long horizontal divider 26 includes four slots 57; however, it should be appreciated that divider 26 could include a different quantity of slots 57, creating a different quantity of cubbies when connected with additional short vertical dividers. In preferred embodiments, slots 57 extend from an edge of long horizontal divider 26 to a point approximately half the width of divider 26 along width direction W. In alternative embodiments, slots 57 extend further or less along width direction W.

FIG. 6B illustrates a short vertical divider 28 having one inter-locking half slot 57. Short vertical divider 28 is preferably noncircular in shape such as rectangular or square; however, other alternative shapes and configurations are contemplated. In the illustrated embodiment, there is one slot 57, however there could be more slots 57 as would occur to one skilled in the art. In certain preferred embodiments, a height of the short vertical divider along a height direction H is substantially equal to the height of the side panels, and a width of the short vertical divider along a width direction W is substantially equal to the width of the side panels. Additionally, short vertical divider 28 can include a different width and/or a different height along width direction W and height direction H, respectively, than the illustrated embodiment. Short vertical divider 28 includes ends 28a and 28b. In certain preferred embodiments, ends 28a and 28b are received in grooves 44 of base panels 22 when arrangement 20 is assembled.

Similar to long horizontal divider 26, slot 57 in short vertical divider 28 preferably extends from an edge of divider 28 to a point approximately half the width of divider 28 along width direction W. In alternative embodiments, slot 57 extends beyond or less than half the width of divider 28. Slots 57 in short vertical dividers 28 engage slots 57 in long horizontal divider 26, as illustrated in FIG. 1, to form the cubbies of arrangement 20 with the short vertical dividers positioned perpendicular to the long horizontal divider. The slots in the dividers enable the short vertical dividers to interlock with the long horizontal dividers to form the inner walls of the arrangement.

FIG. 7 illustrates a short back panel 30. In certain preferred embodiments, ends 30a and 30b are received in back grooves 46 of base panels 22 to form a back wall when arrangement 20 is assembled. Optionally, there are mounting holes 36 in the back panel 30 for mounting back casings 34 to back panel 30. Back panels include ends 30a and 30b which, in certain embodiments, are positioned adjacent inside surface 56a of extension 56 of side panel 24.

Back panel 30 is preferably noncircular in shape including a rectangular or square shape. In the illustrated embodiment, back panel 30 is rectangular. However, it should be appreciated that alternative shapes and sizes are contemplated. As one example, the arrangement can include five back panels equal in width to the one illustrated back panel 30 to be received in grooves 46 of base panels 22. In the illustrated embodiment, the back panel is substantially equal in height to the height of the short vertical dividers, along a height direction H. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, there is one back panel 30, however the back panel could number more than one, in part depending on the size and configuration of the back panels.

FIG. 8A illustrates a long insert 80. Insert 80 is configured to be received in grooves when the grooves do not otherwise have a corresponding end of a divider positioned therein. In certain embodiments, insert 80 can be received in grooves 44, 45, 46, and/or 55. FIG. 8B illustrates a short insert 82. Insert 82 is configured to be received in slots in the inner dividers when the particular slots are not otherwise cooperating with another slot of an inner divider. In certain embodiments, insert 80 can be received in slots 57 of the inner dividers. In preferred embodiments, inserts 80 include a larger width along a width direction W than inserts 82. In certain embodiments, insert 82 includes a width corresponding to the half-width of slots 57 in the inner dividers. In the illustrated embodiments, inserts 80 and 82 include curved ends 80a and 82a, respectively, and straight ends 80b and 82b, respectively, to snugly fit within the slots and grooves of the arrangements. The inserts have a thickness to fill the groove depth, for example with a ½ thickness for a ½ depth groove, a full thickness to fill a full depth groove, or two ½ thickness inserts to fill a full depth groove.

In preferred embodiments, inserts 80 and 82 are configured to fit within the slots and grooves by interference fit and create continuous, smooth surfaces in the arrangements. Optionally, fasteners or adhesive can be used. In arrangement 20′, inserts 82 are inserted into slots 57 of short dividers 28. In such embodiments, short dividers 28 having inserts 82 are positioned such that inserts 82 are positioned adjacent back panel 30 of arrangement 20′.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-8B, the overall assembly of arrangement 20 is as follows. In one preferred embodiment, the components in the kit substantially connect and interlock to form arrangement 20. A kit includes two base panels, two short side panels, one long horizontal divider, four short vertical dividers and one short back panel, among other panels and dividers. During assembly, the short vertical dividers and the short side panels are snugly inserted into grooves on an inner side of a base panel positioned as the bottom panel. Slots in the long horizontal divider are aligned with slots in the short vertical dividers, and the dividers are positioned so that the long horizontal divider interlocks with the short vertical dividers.

The interlocking dividers are assembled upon or placed on a base panel so that edges of the vertical dividers engage middle grooves in the base panels. Ends of the long horizontal divider are positioned onto shelves on inner sides of the side panels. The back panel is inserted between the dividers into the back groove in the bottom base panel. A second base panel is placed over the side panels and dividers so that the short vertical dividers, short side panels and short back panel are snugly received in corresponding grooves in the top base panel. In some embodiments, the side panels and the back panel are secured to the base panels by screws or other releaseable fasteners. In certain embodiments, inserts 80 and 82 can be placed within grooves and/or slots, respectively, where such grooves and/or slots are not cooperating with another panel or divider, to create smooth, continuous surfaces in the arrangement.

In certain embodiments, the modular furniture arrangements are assembled without the use of tools or fasteners by using, as examples, snap together mechanisms or manual fasteners. In one option, a large kit can include two base panels and a plurality of short and tall side and back panels, horizontal dividers, and short and tall vertical dividers, allowing a user to assemble a desired arrangement. Numerous alternative furniture arrangements are possible, a few of which are described below in conjunction with the following figures. In certain embodiments, one or more furniture arrangements can be combined as desired. The arrangements are preferably disassemblable, so that other arrangements can be created as desired. In preferred embodiments, each arrangement includes two base panel pieces along with other dividers, side panels and a back panel assembled together to create desired arrangements.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example arrangement 120 creating a set of lockers and cubbies above the lockers. Arrangement 120 is similar in configuration to arrangement 20, except that the short vertical dividers of arrangement 20 are replaced with tall vertical dividers in arrangement 120. In certain embodiments, the tall vertical dividers are interchangeable with the long horizontal dividers. Additionally, the back and side panels are taller along a height direction H in arrangement 120, with the height of the back panel and the tall vertical dividers being approximately equal to the height of the side panels. In the illustrated embodiment, inserts 80 are inserted into grooves 55 to create flat inner surfaces of the arrangement.

Arrangement 120 is preferably assembled in a similar manner as arrangement 20. In alternative embodiments, the long horizontal divider is absent with the arrangement forming taller lockers. In alternative embodiments, there are multiple long horizontal dividers creating numerous cubbies. In other embodiments, arrangement 120 can be used in an upside-side position to place the cubbies below the lockers. In still other embodiments, arrangement 120 can be placed on a side, with the base panels positioned generally vertical.

FIG. 10 illustrates an example arrangement 220 forming a combination of lockers and cubbies, or other such storage areas as desired. Arrangement 220 shares common characteristics with arrangements 20 and 120. Arrangement 220 includes an arrangement 120 positioned on top of an arrangement 20.

FIG. 11 illustrates an example arrangement 320 also forming a combination of lockers and cubbies, or other such storage areas. Arrangement 320 shares common characteristics with arrangements 20, 120 and 220. Arrangement 320 consists of an arrangement 20 positioned on top of an arrangement 120.

FIG. 12 illustrates an example arrangement 420 forming a combination of lockers and cubbies, or other such storage areas as needed by users. Arrangement 420 shares common characteristics with arrangements 20, 120, 220 and 320. Arrangement 420 includes an arrangement 120 with an arrangement 20 positioned on a side, the arrangement 20 being turned 90 degrees from the illustrated position in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 13A illustrates a single plate 60. As illustrated, in certain embodiments, plate 60 can include curved sections 61 to fittingly contact curved sections 49 of side casings 32. FIG. 13B illustrates a hinge assembly 62 including two plates 60 connected with a hinge 64. In certain embodiments, hinge assembly 62 includes a piano hinge. However, it should be appreciated that hinge assembly 62 can use other types of hinge mechanisms as would occur to one skilled in the art. In some embodiments, the arrangements can include one or more single plates 60 and/or hinge assemblies 62 connected between separate assemblies. In such embodiments, hinge assemblies 62 can be used to connect the arrangements together, such as by inserting screws through plates 60 into the outer surfaces of the sub-assemblies, creating a pivot arrangement with respect to a door panel or another sub-assembly (see FIGS. 15A-17). In certain embodiments, hinge assembly 62 allows for pivoting of one plate relative to the other plate of less than about 180 degrees. However, it should be appreciated that hinge assembly 62 can be configured differently so as to permit less or greater pivoting of one plate relative to the other plate and the respective sub-assemblies.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example arrangement 520 forming a combination of lockers and cubbies, or other such storage areas as needed by users. Arrangement 520 shares common characteristics with arrangements 20, 120, 220, 320 and 420. Arrangement 520 includes an arrangement 120 and two arrangements 20, with one arrangement 20 positioned on a side, that particular arrangement 20 being turned 90 degrees from the illustrated position in FIG. 1. In certain embodiments, arrangement 520 can include accessories, such as magazine racks 525 mounted to the exterior of the arrangements 20 and 120. Racks 525 can be connected to the arrangements by the use of fasteners or other such connection mechanisms in conjunction with mounting holes 36. In certain other embodiments, other types of accessories can be connected to the exterior of the arrangements in addition to or in place of magazine racks 525.

FIG. 15A illustrates two arrangements 20 connected together via a hinge assembly 62. Each arrangement 20 includes one plate 60 of hinge assembly 62 mounted to a side panel of the arrangement. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, each arrangement 20 includes a single plate 60 connected to a side panel of the arrangement opposite hinge assembly 62. Hinge assembly 62 operates to allow one arrangement 20 to pivot relative to the other arrangement 20. In FIG. 15A, arrangements 20 are in an open position. FIG. 15B illustrates arrangements 20 in a closed position. Additionally, one of the arrangements 20 can include a latch 65 and the other arrangement 20 can include a hook 66 to cooperate with latch 65 to lock the two arrangements 20 together. In such embodiments, latch 65 and hook 66 can be positioned on single plates 60. However, it should be appreciated that arrangements 20 can lock in the closed position in appropriate manners using various mechanisms as would occur to one skilled in the art. In certain embodiments, arrangements 20 can include casters, as described above, or other such wheel assemblies, to increase the ease of mobility of the arrangements and the movement (e.g. opening and closing) of the arrangements relative to each other.

FIG. 16 illustrates an arrangement 120 and an arrangement 20 connected together via hinge assembly 62. In the illustrated embodiment, arrangement 120 is rotated approximately 180 degrees from the illustration of FIG. 9. In such embodiments, arrangement 20 can be pivoted about hinge assembly 62 to cover the lower cubbies created by the rotated arrangement 120. Additionally, in the illustrated embodiment, arrangement 20 creates a bench surface 600. In such embodiments, bench surface 600 can provide for seating and/or can provide a surface to place books, bags, or other such items. Additionally, arrangement 20 can lock to arrangement 120 in any appropriate manner, for example by a hook and latch mechanism similar to hook 66 and latch 65.

FIG. 17 illustrates an arrangement 20 having a door 700 connected to arrangement 20 via hinge assembly 62. In the illustrated embodiment, door 700 can pivot about hinge assembly 62 to cover the cubbies of arrangement 20. In certain embodiments, door 700 can include a hook 702 to cooperate with a latch 704 positioned on arrangement 20 lock to door 700 to arrangement 20. In some embodiments, latch 704 can be mounted to a single plate 60 mounted to a side panel of arrangement 20. However, it should be appreciated that door 700 can lock to arrangement 20 in other appropriate manners as would occur to one skilled in the art.

In preferred embodiments, the components of the modular furniture arrangements are made from lightweight materials. In certain preferred embodiments, the components are formed in blow-molded or injection-molded plastic. As an example, the components are made with hollow, blow-molded or injection molded, polyethylene. In certain preferred embodiments, the components are molded in plastic to define the shelves, grooves and slots described herein. In such embodiments, the plastic molded components are waterproof and easy to clean, along with having other advantages associated with plastic materials.

In some embodiments, the components can be made from metal, rubber or other types of plastic. In other embodiments, the components are made from wood. As an example, some assemblies mix materials, such as the inner dividers being made from wood, with the outer panels being formed of a plastic material. Alternatively, the components are made from a transparent material, such as polycarbonate, which may be clear or tinted. However, it should be appreciated that other materials can be used as would generally occur to one skilled in the art. In certain preferred embodiments, the edges of the furniture arrangements and the components thereof are generally rounded to protect users of the arrangements which can include children.

In preferred embodiments, kits include two base panel pieces and various other components. A user selects components, including two base panels and various other panels and dividers, from the kit to assemble an arrangement as desired. Various other possible alternative arrangements can be created using components such as those described herein and other alternative components. In other arrangements, multiple panels and dividers may be combined in vertical and horizontal arrangements to create various other modular furniture pieces. In certain embodiments, multiple furniture arrangements are connectable together via hinge assemblies included in the kits.

As mentioned above, the arrangements can optionally include casters or wheel assemblies mounted to the base panels, serving as a base to the arrangement and to facilitate the ability to move the arrangements. In an optional embodiment requiring tools and fasteners, the wheels can be selectively mountable to and removable from the base panel as desired. Additionally, in certain embodiments, the arrangements can optionally include drawers insertable in the cubbies created by the various arrangements. In such embodiments, the insert drawers can optionally be included in the kits.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.

Claims

1. A kit, comprising:

two interchangeable base panels having a length and a width perpendicular to the length, at least two short side panels having a short height, at least two tall side panels having a tall height, wherein said tall height differs from said short height, at least one short back panel having a height corresponding to the height of said short side panels, at least one tall back panel having a height corresponding to the height of said tall side panels, at least one horizontal divider having a length corresponding to the length of said base panels, at least one short vertical divider having a height corresponding to the height of said short side panels, and at least one tall vertical divider having a height corresponding to the height of said tall side panels;

wherein said base, side, and back panels, and said horizontal and vertical dividers, are selectively assemblable to form at least two disassemblable configurations, wherein each of said configurations includes a first base panel positioned generally parallel to a second base panel;

wherein a first configuration is a cubbie configuration: wherein two of said short side panels are positioned as sides of said cubbie configuration between said base panels, such that said base panels are spaced apart by the height of said short side panels and said short side panels are spaced apart by the length of said base panels; wherein said at least one short back panel is positioned as a back of said cubbie configuration; wherein said two short side panels and said short back panel are selectively engaged to and positioned generally perpendicular to said first and second base panels; and, wherein said at least one horizontal divider is selectively engaged to said two short side panels and said at least one short vertical divider, and said at least one short vertical divider is selectively engaged to said base panels, said at least one short vertical divider being positioned generally parallel to and between said two short side panels and said at least one horizontal divider being positioned generally parallel to and between said base panels;

wherein a second configuration is a locker configuration: wherein two of said tall side panels are positioned as sides of said locker configuration between said base panels, such that said base panels are spaced apart by the height of said tall side panels and said tall side panels are spaced apart by the length of said base panels; wherein said at least one tall back panel is positioned as a back of said locker configuration; wherein said two tall side panels and said tall back panel are selectively engaged to and positioned generally perpendicular to said first and second base panels; and wherein said at least one horizontal divider is selectively engaged to said two tall side panels and said at least one tall vertical divider, and said at least one tall vertical divider is selectively engaged to said base panels, said at least one tall vertical divider being positioned generally parallel to and between said two tall side panels and said at least one horizontal divider being positioned generally parallel to and between said base panels.

2. The kit of claim 1, wherein in said locker configuration, said horizontal divider is offset between said base panels, such that the distance between said horizontal divider and said first base panel is smaller than the distance between said horizontal divider and said second base panel.

3. The kit of claim 1, wherein said at least one tall vertical divider and said at least one horizontal divider are interchangeable.

4. The kit of claim 1, wherein said kit is combinable with a second kit, said second kit including panels and dividers assemblable to form at least one configuration, and comprising at least one hinge assembly, wherein said hinge assembly is selectively engageable to configurations formed from said kit and said second kit to connect said configurations together.

5. The kit of claim 4, wherein one configuration formed from said kit and said second kit is a cubbie configuration, and the other configuration formed from said kit and said second kit is a locker configuration.

6. The kit of claim 1, wherein:

each of said base panels includes a back edge along the length of said base panel and two side edges along the width of said base panel;

said back panel includes two ends along the length of said back panel;

each of said side panels has a width corresponding to the width of said base panels and includes two ends along the width of said side panel engageable with said side edges of said base panels; and

each of said base panels includes at least one back groove adjacent the back edge of said base panel to snugly receive one of said ends of said back panel, and further includes two side grooves, one of said two side grooves adjacent each of said side edges of said base panels, wherein each of said side grooves snugly receives one of said ends of one of said side panels.

7. The kit of claim 1, wherein said vertical divider has a width corresponding to the width of said base panels and includes two opposite ends along the width of said vertical divider, wherein each of said base panels includes at least one middle groove to snugly receive one of said ends of said vertical dividers.

8. The kit of claim 1, wherein said horizontal divider has a width corresponding to the width of said base panels and includes two opposite ends along the width of said horizontal divider, wherein each of said side panels includes at least one shelf to snugly receive one of said ends of said horizontal divider.

9. The kit of claim 1, wherein each of said horizontal divider, said short vertical divider, and said tall vertical divider has a width corresponding to the width of said base panels and includes a slot to interlock said horizontal and vertical dividers, wherein said slots are interlocking slots extending approximately half the width of each of said horizontal divider, said short vertical divider, and said tall vertical divider.

10. The kit of claim 1, comprising at least one back casing and at least two side casings selectively and releasably mounted about a periphery of said configurations to maintain formation of said configurations, said back casing and said side casings being selectively and releasably engageable to said base panels.

11. The kit of claim 10, wherein said side casings each include a groove and a shelf, wherein said back casing has a length corresponding to the length of said base panels and a height perpendicular to said length, wherein said back casing includes two opposite ends along the height of said back casing, wherein each of said base panels includes two ends along the width of said base panel, wherein said groove receives one of said ends of said back casing and said shelf receives one of said ends along the width of said base panel.

12. The kit of claim 1, comprising at least one mounting hole defined in one or more of said base, side, and back panels, and said horizontal and vertical dividers, for mounting at least one object to said configurations.

13. A furniture assembly, comprising:

at least two interchangeable base panels having a length, at least two short side panels having a height, at least two tall side panels having a height, at least one short back panel having a height corresponding to the height of said short side panels, at least one tall back panel having a height corresponding to the height of said tall side panels, at least one horizontal divider having a length corresponding to the length of said base panels, at least one short vertical divider having a height corresponding to the height of said short side panels, and at least one tall vertical divider having a height corresponding to the height of said tall side panels;

wherein said base, side, and back panels, and said horizontal and vertical dividers, are selectively assemblable to form at least two disassemblable configurations.

14. The furniture assembly of claim 13, wherein in each of said configurations, a first base panel is positioned generally parallel to a second base panel, wherein each of said base panels includes a back groove to selectively engage edges of said back panel, at least one middle groove to selectively engage edges of said vertical dividers, and two side grooves to selectively engage edges of said side panels, wherein said horizontal divider and said tall and short vertical dividers each include at least one inter-locking half slot to interlock said horizontal divider with said tall and short vertical dividers;

wherein a first configuration is a cubbie configuration: wherein two of said short side panels are positioned as sides of said cubbie configuration between said base panels, such that said base panels are spaced apart by the height of said short side panels and said short side panels are spaced apart by the length of said base panels; wherein said short back panel is positioned as a back of said cubbie configuration; wherein said two short side panels and said short back panel are selectively engaged to and positioned generally perpendicular to said first and second base panels; and, wherein said at least one horizontal divider is selectively engaged to said two short side panels and said at least one short vertical divider, and said at least one short vertical divider is selectively engaged to said at least one horizontal divider and said base panels, said at least one short vertical divider being positioned generally parallel to and between said two short side panels and said at least one horizontal divider being positioned generally parallel to and between said base panels.

15. The furniture assembly of claim 14, wherein a second configuration is a locker configuration:

wherein two of said tall side panels are positioned as sides of said locker configuration between said base panels, such that said base panels are spaced apart by the height of said tall side panels and said tall side panels are spaced apart by the length of said base panels;

wherein said tall back panel is positioned as a back of said locker configuration;

wherein said two tall side panels and said tall back panel are selectively engaged to and positioned generally perpendicular to said first and second base panels; and

wherein said at least one horizontal divider is selectively engaged to said two tall side panels and said at least one tall vertical divider, and said at least one tall vertical divider is selectively engaged to said at least one horizontal divider and said base panels, said at least one tall vertical divider being positioned generally parallel to and between said two tall side panels and said at least one horizontal divider being positioned generally parallel to and between said base panels.

16. The furniture assembly of claim 14, comprising at least one long insert and at least one short insert, wherein said long insert is configured to fit in one of any of said back groove, said middle groove, and said side grooves, and wherein said short insert is configured to fit in one of any of said inter-locking half slots.

17. The furniture assembly of claim 13, wherein said furniture assembly is combinable with a second furniture assembly, said second furniture assembly including panels and dividers assemblable to form at least one configuration, and comprising at least one hinge assembly selectively engageable to configurations from said furniture assembly and said second furniture assembly to connect said configurations.

18. The furniture assembly of claim 15, wherein said assembly is arrangeable to form a second locker configuration comprising a plurality of said horizontal dividers positioned generally parallel to and between said base panels, and a plurality of said tall vertical dividers positioned generally parallel to and between said tall side panels.

19. The furniture assembly of claim 13, comprising at least two back casings and at least four side casings, wherein said casings are selectively and releasably mounted around two peripheries of a configuration to maintain engagement of said panels and said dividers of said configuration, said casings being selectively and releasably engaged to said base panels.

20. The furniture assembly of claim 13, wherein each of said base panels has a width perpendicular to the length of said base panel, wherein said horizontal divider has a width corresponding to the width of said base panels and includes two opposite ends along the width of said horizontal divider, wherein each of said side panels includes at least one shelf to snugly receive one of said ends of said horizontal divider.