Configurable modular articulating table and credenza assembly

Abstract

A furniture assembly and method for a configurable modular articulating table and credenza. In some embodiments, the furniture assembly includes an articulating table having a pair of elongate table segments each individually and pivotally secured to a stationary base segment and containing arcuate edges located opposite the base segment. The furniture assembly also includes a pair of symmetrical credenza end table units, each having a top surface with a curved front edge and a linear rear edge. The furniture assembly further includes a modular unit having a top surface of modified trapezoidal shape including an arc-shaped front edge and a linear back edge, said modular unit shaped to interchangeably and selectively couple in abutting relation with the articulating table and the pair of symmetrical credenza units.

Description

RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims is a continuation-in-part of and claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 29/336,368, filed on May 1, 2009, issuing Nov. 24, 2009, as U.S. Pat. No. D604,529, the entirety of said application and the patent are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to the field of modular furniture. More specifically, the invention is directed to office furniture and configurable furniture assemblies and methods for configuring the same.

BACKGROUND ART

Office furniture which is readily functional and adaptable has long been sought after to people all over the world and by persons working in all types of professions. Accordingly, office furniture and furniture assemblies have been designed in numerous ways which utilize space effectively, incorporate attractive features, and easily adapt to the varying needs of individuals based upon their use.

One place in which this need for optimally functional furniture has been especially understood has been in the context of office environments where meetings and business take place. Enhancing the productivity of spaces and meeting environments has long been recognized as being extremely useful in allowing people to maximize use of their time and efforts when at work. Moreover, the benefits of well-designed furniture such as comfort and flexibility are widely appreciated.

To this end, office furniture of a multitude of shapes, sizes and configurations have been made. One especially challenging environment to adapt furniture for optimal functionality is a workspace, such as a meeting room, conference room, or boardroom that is traditionally dominated by a large elongate conference table. Often these types of rooms are somewhat limited in size and are not necessarily equipped with a great deal of readily available storage space. It is frequently an issue that such conference tables and spaces need to be functional for both small groups of individuals and larger groups of people. Further, due to the ever increasing use of technology in these environments, the furniture is preferably amenable to easy viewing of a video screen, visual presentation, or other technological tool.

Therefore, a furniture assembly is desired for work environments that are functional, space-saving, adaptable to various tasks, easily configured and stored. Further, methods to configure such furniture assemblies are desired as well.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Various embodiments of the invention include a configurable modular articulating table and credenza assembly. The assembly allows for multiple configurations of a credenza assembly as well as multiple configurations of an articulating table assembly. Specifically, the configurable design provides for readily interchangeable uses of the furniture as either an elongate credenza with an articulating table or as an expanded multisided conference table arrangement with a pair of credenza end tables.

Various embodiments of the invention are further provided to assist in the configuration or reconfiguration of a meeting room. Such a configuration can readily transform a meeting room equipped with a credenza and conference table into a meeting room containing a reoriented and reconfigured pieces of furniture for accommodating different tasks and workplace needs.

In one embodiment, the furniture assembly, includes an articulating table comprising a pair of elongate table segments each individually and pivotally secured to a stationary base segment. Moreover, the elongate segments further contain arcuate edges located opposite the base segment. The furniture assembly of this embodiment also includes a pair of symmetrical credenza end table units, each end table unit having a top surface with a curved front edge and a linear rear edge. The assembly further includes a modular unit having a top surface of modified trapezoidal shape including an arc-shaped front edge and a linear back edge, said modular unit shaped to interchangeably and selectively couple in abutting relation with the articulating table and the pair of symmetrical credenza units.

In another embodiment, the furniture assembly includes an articulating table including a pair of elongate table segments each individually pivotally coupled at a first end to a stationary base segment. In such an embodiment, the table segments each permit rotation of the opposite second ends along an arc shaped path. The pair of elongate table segments further includes an arcuate shaped edge located opposite the base segment. The assembly includes a pair of credenza end table units. Each end table units has a four-sided planar top surface including a curved front edge. Further, the pair of credenza end table units are symmetrical to one another. The assembly includes a modular unit having a four sided planar top surface. The four sided planar top surface has a first edge that is arc shaped, a second edge that is linear and generally transversely disposed from the first edge, and two angled side edges.

In this embodiment, the modular unit is adapted for selectively coupling with either the articulating table or the pair of credenza units. The side edges of the modular unit match the angled sides of the pair of credenza end table units. The second edge allows for linear alignment with the rear edges of the credenza end table units. The first edge provides a smooth continuous curved edge with the pair of credenza end table units. Also in this embodiment, the modular unit is shaped to fit between the elongate table segments when pivoted open. This allows the first edge of the modular unit to complete a continuous convex arc shaped edge with the arcuate shaped edge of both the elongate table segments.

In yet another embodiment, a method for configuring a meeting room is provided. This method includes providing a credenza assembly that includes a pair of symmetric end tables in abutting coupled relation to a modular unit having an arc-shaped front edge. The modular unit is centrally disposed between the pair of symmetric end tables. The method also includes providing an articulating table having two elongate segments in pivotal engagement at a first end to a stationary base segment. Such elongate segments have an arcuate second edge opposite the first edge. The method also includes the step of providing instructions. The instructions include steps to rotate the elongate segments to provide a gap large enough for insertion of the modular unit. Further the instructions include removing the modular unit from the centrally disposed location between the end tables. Also, instructions to move the modular unit into the gap between the elongate segments are included. Finally, the method includes instructions to adjust the elongate segments and modular unit such that the arc shaped edge of the modular unit matches the arcuate second edge of the elongate segments.

In an embodiment of the invention a top of a configurable conference table has, as defined by its top edges from a plan view, an elliptical shape, or single frusto elliptical, or double frusto elliptical shape when in a retracted position. Alternatively the top of the table, in the retracted position may be rounded frusto elliptical at one end or both ends. The table top has a fixed end portion with a pair of table segments pivotal about the fixed end portion with the distal ends of the table top segments articulatable outwardly. In one embodiment the curvature of the top fixed end is identical to the curvature of the opposite end when in the table is in the retracted position, with the segments together. The segments having a linear engagement edge that abuts one another in the retracted position that defines a longitudinal center line of the table. The engagement edges of the table segments separate to form an acute angle that corresponds with the acute angle of a table piece with a top that fits between the two segments. The fixed end portion has an edge that abuts or confronts edges of the two table segments. Said edge has a curvature, and the edges of the table segments that abut or confront the said edge have a matching curvature facilitating the pivoting motion of the segments while maintain a substantially continuous table top surface.

The movable piece has the acute angle formed by the two opposite sides of the table top of the movable piece, the table top having a shape generally trapezoidal. In an embodiment the generally trapezoidal shape with the edge defining the base of the generally trapezoidal shaped table top having a concave arcuate shape. The edge opposite the base of the trapezoidal shape may have a straight edge. The shape of the table top of the movable piece may be described as frusto pie shaped. In an embodiment the movable piece has wheels or casters on floor engaging legs. In an embodiment, the movable piece is movable between the opened or expanded articulable table segments and a pair of credenza end units. The pair of credenza units each having a table top with a shape. The tops of the credenza units having a linear back edge suitable for abutting up against a wall. The credenza units are intended to be separated with the back edges in alignment to define a nesting area for receiving the movable piece such that when the movable piece in nested in the nesting area, the back edges of all three pieces will be in alignment, the side edges of the movable piece will abut the inwardly facing side edges of the credenza end table units, and the front edges will be in alignment or continuous.

The movable piece as well as the table segments may have wheels or casters thereon to facilitate the reconfiguration of the different pieces, particularly expansion of the articulatable table segments, removal of the movable piece from inside the two credenza end table units to be inserted within the table segments, and reversing said steps, that is removing the movable piece from the internal engagement with the table segments to be placed within the credenza end table units and then the closing of the table segments.

In an embodiment the two internal edges of the tops of the credenza end table units form an acute angle of about 30 degrees when the back edges of the tops of the credenza end table units are in alignment. In other embodiments this angle may be 28 degrees to 32 degrees. In other embodiments, this angle may be 26 degrees to 36 degrees. In other embodiments the angle may be 30 degrees to 45 degrees. The top surfaces of the conference table is intended to be at a height that matches, corresponds to the height of the movable piece and the height, when present each of the other piece or pieces of the credenza. In another embodiment the height of the top surfaces of the tops of the table are all at about 30 inches or a standard table height, for example 29 to 32 inches.

In an embodiment the length of the conference table top will be within the range of 12 feet to 18 feet. The width of the conference table top may be 4 feet to 4 feet 9 inches. In an embodiment the length of the conference table will be from 10 feet to 20 feet and the width from 3 feet to 5 feet.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a furniture assembly comprising a configurable modular articulating table and credenza assembly, according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a credenza assembly incorporating a modular furniture unit according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a front elevational view of a credenza assembly incorporating a modular furniture unit according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of a credenza assembly incorporating a modular furniture unit according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a top plan view of a credenza assembly incorporating a modular furniture unit according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a front corner perspective view of a credenza assembly incorporating a modular furniture unit with the modular unit moved forward from the position seen in FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of an articulated table in a closed configuration according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of an articulated table in an open configuration and a modular unit that has not yet been incorporated with the articulated table according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a top plan view of an articulated table assembly in an open configuration which incorporates a modular unit according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a top plan view diagram of a meeting room including a credenza assembly which includes a modular unit and a closed articulating table according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a top plan view diagram of a meeting room including end tables of a credenza and an expanded articulating table coupled with a modular unit according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of the articulated table with the top removed revealing the mechanism for pivoting the table segments.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken at line 13-13 of FIG. 12, also showing the wood top attached.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIG. 1, a furniture assembly 10 is disclosed for a configurable modular articulating table and credenza assembly. The assembly 10 incorporates two configurable furniture designs, namely, a credenza assembly 12 and an articulating table assembly 14. Each assembly 12 and 14 having at least two configurations for use. In FIG. 1, the credenza assembly 12 is shown in a configuration which includes a pair of credenza end table units 16 and 18 as well as a modular table unit 20 centrally located between the end table units 16 and 18. When the credenza assembly 12 is configured this way, the articulating table assembly 14 generally comprises an articulating table 22 such as the one in the closed configuration shown in FIG. 1. The articulating table 22 generally includes a pair of elongate table segments 24 and 26 which are pivotally coupled individually at one end 28 to a stationary base segment 30.

As will be described in greater detail throughout this disclosure, the furniture assembly 10 allows for a plurality of configurations. In one configuration, a furniture assembly 10 is provided which includes a useful and attractive credenza for convenient location against a wall or other amenable location that will not interfere with use of the articulating table.

In another configuration, the furniture assembly 10 provides a modular unit 20 as part of the previously mentioned credenza assembly 12. However, the modular unit 20 is readily removed from the credenza assembly 12. Once removed, this modular unit 20 can be coupled with an articulating table 22 in its open configuration. When this configuration is achieved, the result is a conference table having greater seating, larger overall individual workspace, and an advantageous table layout for certain small group situations and interactions.

In FIGS. 2-6, the credenza assembly, including credenza end table units 16 and 18 and modular table unit 20 is shown in various views. The modular unit 20 is located directly between the two end table units 16 and 18.

The two credenza end tables 16 and 18 are generally mirror images of one another such that they are symmetrical. One example of this is the way the pair of credenza end table units 16 and 18 each have a planar top surface 32 of mirrored orientation. These planar top surfaces 32 are each shaped by four surrounding edges. At the front is a curved front edge 34. This front curved surface 34 may be either completely arc shaped or may have a continuously smooth perimeter edge of more complex curvature, as seen in FIGS. 1-6. Continuously curved edges of any shape are possible. Specifically, the complex curvature shown in the figures has a curved portion 35 of a significant convex arcuate shape where one end gradually smoothes to a more linearly directed portion 36.

A rear linear edge 38 or 40 is located opposite the curved front edge 34 or 36 on the top surface 32 of each end table unit 16 and 18. These linear edges 38 and 40 are convenient for alignment with an adjacent wall if desired. The top surface 32 of the end table units 16 and 18 will each typically have two side edges including inner side edges 42 or 44 and an outer side edge 46 or 48. The embodiments depicted in FIGS. 1-6 show outer side edges 46 and 48 extending perpendicularly from their respective rear linear edge 38 or 40. Further, an inner side edge 42 or 44 is disposed adjacent the linear edge 38 or 40 at an acute angle 50 or 52.

The top surfaces 32 of the end table units 16 and 18 are supported by cabinets 54 or other shelving or support structure. These cabinets 54 or shelving structure may, in turn, be supported by a plurality of leg members 56 at their base as well. The top surface 32 may provide an overhanging lip 58 along the inner sides 42 and 44. Further, the top surface 32 is shown partially overhanging the lower cabinet structure 54 along the curved front edge 34.

The modular unit 20 of the furniture assembly 10 can be seen throughout the disclosed figures. The modular unit 20 is a readily moveable table unit having a generally planar top surface 60 of generally modified trapezoidal shape. Such a “modified trapezoidal” shape denotes a shape similar to a trapezoid, however, the longer of the parallel sides of the trapezoid is replaced with a slightly convex shaped side. This may also be referred to as an “arc trapezoid” shape. Specifically, in this application, the planar top surface 60 has modified trapezoidal shape as it has an arc-shaped front edge 68 and a linear back edge 70. The planar top surface 60 is supported by two T-shape or C-shape table legs having main cylindrical supports 62 and a horizontally disposed base supports 64 which are mounted on casters 66. As seen in FIG. 3, the modular unit 20 provides a top planar surface 60 which has a height that is roughly equivalent to the top planar surfaces 32 of the end table units 16 and 18. This allows for a credenza assembly 12 with a uniform top surface when the modular unit 20 is coupled into place.

The top surface 60 of modular unit 20 has a first front edge 68 that is arc shaped. Oppositely disposed the first edge, is a second back edge 70 that is generally linear. This linear back edge 70 can be readily aligned with the rear linear edges 38 and 40 of the end table units 16 and 18 when the credenza assembly 12 is configured into one uniform piece. The top planar surface 60 further includes two side edges 72 and 74 which are angled with respect to the second linear back edge 70. The angles between the second edge 70 and either of the side edges 72 and 74 are, respectively, obtuse angles 76 and 78. These respective obtuse angles 76 and 78 are approximately complementary to corresponding acute angles 50 and 52 formed by the rear edges 38 and 40 and the respective inner side edges 42 and 44 of the end table units 16 and 18.

Accordingly, the modular unit 20 is adapted for selectively coupling with the pair of credenza end units 16 and 18, or alternatively, with the articulating table 22 as described later in this specification and shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. With respect to the credenza assembly 12, the interior side edges 72 and 74 of the modular unit 20 roughly match the side edges 42 and 44 of the credenza end table units 16 and 18. The second edge 70 at the rear of the modular unit allows for a user to easily place this edge of the modular unit in linear alignment with the rear edges 38 and 40 of the end table units 16 and 18. Additionally, when the modular unit 20 and end table units 16 and 18 are aligned, the arc shaped first edge 68 of the modular unit 20 completes a uniform smooth continuous curved edge across the front of these combined credenza assembly components.

In FIGS. 7-9 the articulating table assembly 14 is shown and described. In general, this assembly utilizes an articulating table 22 that may be selectively coupled to a modular unit 20. This coupled arrangement allows for a larger table having a modified orientation, seating capacity, and workspace capability to be provided. The embodiments shown in FIGS. 1, 7-9 disclose an articulating table 22 comprising first and second elongate table segments 24 and 26. Each of these elongate table segments 24 and 26 is pivotally coupled at one end to a stationary base segment 30. Although not shown in the figures, the elongate table segments 24 and 26 can be understood to be coupled to the base segment 30 by braces mounted below the top planar surface members of the elongate table segments.

The first and second elongate table segments 24 and 26 further have generally planar top surfaces 80. These top planar surfaces 80 have a linear interior edge 82 where the interior linear edge 82 of the first elongate table segment 24 is shaped to match the interior linear edge 84 of the second elongate table segment when the articulating table 22 is in a closed configuration as shown in FIGS. 1 and 7. The first and second elongate table segments 24 and 26 further each include an arcuate shaped edge 86 located at the furthest edge from the base segment 30. These arcuate shaped edges 86 provide an easy reference point for aligning the first front arc shaped edge 68 of the modular unit 20 when these components are coupled into place.

More specifically, the modular unit 20 has a first edge which is shaped such that when it is moved into position between the arcuate edges 86 of the elongate table segments 24 and 26, a continuous arc shaped edge is formed. Further, the side edges 72 and 74 of the modular segment further correspond to the interior liner edges 82 and 84 of the elongate table members 24 and 26.

In FIG. 7 a top plan view of an articulated table is shown in a closed configuration. This particular table has a generally elongate “boat”-like shape which is curved slightly on all outside perimeter edges. The base segment 30 has several sides of slight curvature and a larger innerwardly facing curved edge 88. Various articulating tables 22 may have base segments 30 of a plurality of shapes and sizes. For example, the articulating table of FIG. 1 has and base segment with edges of a more oval shape than the one shown in FIGS. 7-11. The elongate table segments 24 and 26 rotate around curved edge 88 of the base segment 30.

The elongate table members 24 and 26 of the articulating table 22 are seen adjacent one another in FIG. 7. Specifically, the linear interior edges 82 and 84 abut one another to achieve the appearance and functionality of a single unitary conference table. The curved outside edges 90 and 92 of the elongate members 24 and 26 form a elongate outer edge having a curvature consistent with the base segment 30 when the articulated table 22 is in the closed configuration of FIG. 7. The edges of the articulating table 22 opposite and furthest from the base segment 30 are the arcuate edges 86. These arcuate edges 86 are found at the end of each of the elongate members 24 and 26. The arcuate edges 86 form an edge which is smooth and consistent when the articulating table is in the closed configuration of FIG. 7. Areas 94 are shown at the center of the articulating table designate optional locations for implementing technology components or other inlay elements within the articulating table 22.

FIG. 8 discloses a top plan view of an articulated table in an open configuration. As shown, the caster-supported elongate table segments 24 and 26 can pivoted into this “V” shaped configuration by simply pushing the elongate table segments 24 and 26 apart. The “V” shaped configuration can be advantageous for many conference room situations, especially where persons around a table have their attention directed toward the open end of the conference table. In FIG. 8, the modular unit 20 is shown near the open end of the articulated table 22. The modular unit would likely be oriented in this way after it has been removed from the credenza assembly 12 and just prior to incorporating it with the rest of the articulating assembly 14 in abutted, coupled relation.

FIG. 9 discloses a top plan view of an articulated table assembly 14 in an open configuration where the modular unit 20 has been incorporated into the assembly. This has been done by positioning the side edges 72 and 74 of the modular unit 20 in a coupled abutting position to the linear interior edges 82 and 84 of the articulating table 22. Moreover, the modular unit 20 is appropriately coupled to the articulating table 22 by aligning the first arc-shaped edge of the modular unit 20 with the arcutate edges 86. As shown in FIG. 9. The an expanded articulating table assembly 14 is therefore achieved which has a matched and continuous outer curved edge opposite the base segment 30 comprised of aligned arcuate edges 86 and the arc-shaped first edge 68 of the modular unit 20. Incorporating the additional modular segment 20 allows for a new furniture assembly configuration with additional seating and workspace.

FIGS. 10 and 11 generally disclose use of the furniture assembly 12 in a meeting room environment in two furniture assembly configurations. In general, these figures can be referenced to help understand a method configuring a meeting room as well.

FIG. 10 generally shows top diagram view of a meeting room 100. The meeting room 100 generally includes the furniture assembly 10 a first configuration including the credenza assembly 12 where the modular unit 20 is incorporated in coupled, abutted relation to two symmetrical credenza end table units 16 and 18. Also shown is the articulating table assembly 14, including the articulating table 22 oriented in a closed configuration. Possible locations for chairs 102 are included in FIG. 10 for reference and clarity.

FIG. 11 includes a similar top diagram view of a meeting room 100. In this view the meeting room generally includes the furniture assembly 10 in a second configuration including the credenza assembly 12 containing two end table units 16 and 18 without a modular unit 20. Also shown is an articulating table assembly 14 where the articulating table 22 is in an expanded “V” shaped configuration. Further the modular unit 20 is engaged in abutting coupled relation to the articulating table 22. Specifically, the side edges 72 and 74 of the modular unit 20 are disposed against the inside linear edges 82 and 84 of the articulating table 22.

Therefore, a meeting room can be configured or reconfigured from an arrangement similar to the one disclosed in FIG. 10 to a configuration similar to the one disclosed in FIG. 11, by following the method described in this patent application. First, a credenza assembly must be provided which comprising a pair of symmetric end tables 16 and 18 in abutting coupled relation to a modular unit 20. The modular unit should have an arc-shaped front edge 68 for alignment and be centrally disposed between the pair of symmetric end tables 16 and 18. Also, an articulating table 22 comprising two elongate segments 24 and 26 must be provided. The elongate segments 24 and 26 in pivotal engagement at a first end to a stationary base segment 30. The elongate segments 24 and 26 further each have at least an arcuate second edge 86 opposite a first end 28 of the base segment 30.

To reconfigure the furniture assembly 10, a user should rotate the elongate segments 24 and 26 to provide a gap between the elongate table segments 24 and 26 such that the articulating table 22 is oriented in a “V” shape. The modular unit 20 should be removed from the centrally disposed location between the end tables 16 and 18. Next, a user must move the modular unit 20 into the gap between the elongate segments 24 and 26. Once nearly in place, a user adjusts the elongate segments 24 and 26 and the modular unit 20 such that the arc shaped first edge 68 of the modular unit 20 matches the arcuate second edges 86 of the elongate segments 24 and 26. Chairs 102 are accordingly reshuffled and positioned to change the meeting room into the desired layout and to maximize the use of space for the task conducted.

The credenza end tables 16 and 18, modular unit 20, and articulating table 22 are generally not limited to particular sizes or dimensions. However, exemplary lengths for each credenza end table may include four foot credenza end tables 16 and 18. Exemplary lengths for modular units 20 may include lengths of four, five or six feet. Exemplary lengths for an articulating table 22 may include lengths ranging from twelve feet to twenty feet.

For purposes of this application, a “meeting room” should be defined to include any room having at least three walls and containing an elongate conference table.

For purposes of this application, “coupling” or “coupled” members shall include alignment of members or components into adjacent or abutting relationship. Such coupling need not include engagement features, or features of physical attachment between components.

Referring to FIGS. 12 and 13, a suitable mechanism for providing the pivoting of the pivoting of the elongate table segments 24, 26 is illustrated. The wood table top is removed in FIG. 12 but its positioning is illustrated by the dashed lines. A pivot 120 is defined by a pin 122 extending through rotatable brackets 132, 134 and anchored to a top plate 140 and a bottom plate 142. The wood table top 150 may be attached to the top plate and the pedestal 154 or legs may be suitable attached to the bottom plate. The plates may be secured together appropriately spaced by spacers 160 with bolts therethrough. The rotatable brackets 132, 134 may include square tubing extending in the longitudinal direction of the table. Bracing 160, 161, 162, 163 may be attached to the additional pieces of square tubing 170, 172, 174, 176 or angle irons which may then be secured to the wood top and to pedestals 180, 182, 184, 186 with castors thereon providing easy pivoting of the segments.

The invention may be practiced in other embodiments not disclosed herein. For example, the credenza may be only two pieces or a single piece that is the movable piece or the modular unit. References to relative terms such as upper and lower, front and back, left and right, or the like, are intended for convenience of description and are not contemplated to limit the invention, or its components, to any specific orientation. All dimensions depicted in the figures may vary with a potential design and the intended use of a specific embodiment of this invention without departing from the scope thereof.

Each of the additional figures and methods disclosed herein may be used separately, or in conjunction with other features and methods, to provide improved devices, systems and methods for making and using the same. Therefore, combinations of features and methods disclosed herein may not be necessary to practice the invention in its broadest sense and are instead disclosed merely to particularly describe representative embodiments of the invention.

For purposes of interpreting the claims for the invention, it is expressly intended that the provisions of Section 112, sixth paragraph of 35 U.S.C. are not to be invoked unless the specific terms “means for” or “step for” are recited in the subject claim.

APPENDIX

The enclosed appendix containing additional views of embodiments of the furniture assembly are included for reference. This section may be canceled as well as the photographs in the APPENDIX upon allowance to remain in prosecution file.

Claims

1. A furniture assembly, comprising:

an articulating table comprising a pair of elongate table segments each individually and pivotally secured to a stationary base segment and containing arcuate edges located opposite the base segment;

a pair of symmetrical credenza end table units, each having a top surface with a curved front edge and a linear rear edge;

a modular unit having a top surface of modified trapezoidal shape including an arc-shaped front edge and a linear back edge, said modular unit shaped to interchangeably and selectively couple in abutting relation with the articulating table and the pair of symmetrical credenza units.

2. The furniture assembly of claim 1, wherein the modular unit is shaped to selectively couple to the pair of credenza end table units by aligning the arc-shaped front edge of the modular unit with the curved front edge of the credenza end table units to form a smooth continuous curved edge.

3. The furniture assembly of claim 2, wherein the modular unit is shaped to selectively couple to the pair of credenza end table units by aligning the linear back edge of the modular unit with the linear rear edge of the credenza end table units.

4. The furniture assembly of claim 3, wherein the modular unit is shaped to selectively couple to the articulating table when placing the modular unit between the pair of elongate table segments and aligning the arc-shaped front edge of the modular unit with the arcuate edges of the elongate table segments to form a smooth continuous curved edge.

5. The furniture assembly of claim 1, wherein the pair of symmetrical credenza end table units have a four-sided top planar surface.

6. The furniture assembly of claim 1, wherein the top planar surface of the modular unit has side edges connecting the arc-shaped front edge and the linear back edge where a first angle between each of the side edges and the linear back edge is obtuse.

7. The furniture assembly of claim 6, wherein the top planar surface of the credenza end units have at least one side edge connecting the curved front edge and the linear rear edge where a second angle between the side edge and the rear back edge is acute and complementary to the first angle.

8. A furniture assembly, comprising:

an articulating table comprising a pair of elongate table segments each individually pivotally coupled at a first end to a stationary base segment, and permitting rotation of the second ends along an arc shaped path, wherein the first and second elongate table segments further include an arcuate shaped edge located opposite the base segment;

a pair of credenza end table units each having a four-sided planar top surface including a curved front edge, the pair of credenza end table units being symmetrical to one another;

a modular unit having a four sided planar top surface including a first edge that is arc shaped, a second edge that is linear and generally transversely disposed from the first edge, and two angled side edges;

said modular unit is further adapted for selectively coupling with either the articulating table or the pair of credenza units;

said side edges of the modular unit match the angled sides of the pair of credenza end table units, wherein the second edge allows for linear alignment with the rear edges of the credenza end table units and the first edge provides a smooth continuous curved edge with the pair of credenza end table units; and

said modular unit shaped to fit between the elongate table segments when pivoted open such that the first edge of the modular unit completes a continuous convex arc shaped edge with the arcuate shaped edge of both the elongate table segments.

9. The furniture assembly of claim 8, wherein the modular unit has a top surface of arc trapezoid shape.

10. A method for configuring a meeting room, comprising:

providing a credenza assembly comprising a pair of symmetric end tables in abutting coupled relation to a modular unit having an arc-shaped front edge and which is centrally disposed between the pair of symmetric end tables;

providing an articulating table comprising two elongate segments in pivotal engagement at a first end to a stationary base segment, wherein the elongate segments have an arcuate second edge opposite the first edge;

providing instructions to: rotate the elongate segments to provide a gap large enough for insertion of the modular unit; remove the modular unit from the centrally disposed location between the end tables; move the modular unit into the gap between the elongate segments; adjust the elongate segments and modular unit such that the arc shaped edge of the modular unit matches the arcuate second edge of the elongate segments.